Chapter 8: Thirst Traps
Avery, determined to cover for her annoying cousin's attempt to blow off their plans, kept telling the workers they were good friends, helping Evelyn for the big day. But the way Zevian's eyes followed Evelyn as she stood on the small dais, his icy demeanor softening instantly to one of admiration, left the workers suspicious.
"Wow! This looks perfect," Avery mused, admiring the gown Evelyn wore—the very one Zevian had pointed out earlier. "You have good taste," she praised Zevian, sitting beside her. His puppy-like smile and twinkling eyes made her shake her head. Only her best friend could evoke such reactions from this iceberg.
Evelyn couldn't help but smile at her reflection in the mirror. The off-shoulder gown fit her perfectly. She stole a glance in Zevian's direction, appreciating his suggestion with a small smile.
"Now that the gown is finalized, why don't we go have lunch, Mr. Reign?" Vincent's voice interrupted her thoughts. Evelyn scoffed, shaking her head at his blatant attempt to get Zevian's attention. It gave her a strange satisfaction, recalling the months she had spent yearning for his attention and love while he was busy caring for poor Annabelle. Karma was indeed a twisted thing.
"We have no interest in having lunch with you, Mr. Blake," Avery retorted, glaring at Annabelle beside him. "Especially not with someone who has taken everything from my best friend. So, stop trying to lick my cousin's boots and get out of here."
Vincent's smile faded, his jaw clenched as the staff stifled their laughs. He had never liked Evelyn's so-called best friend and now even more so, not just for disrespecting him but also Annabelle. He shot a glare at Evelyn, hoping she would at least take her sister's side. But all he got was a blank stare.
"Let's go, Anna," Vincent said, grabbing Annabelle's hand. She winced in pain while trying to get up. Concern overtook Vincent's anger, and without a second thought, he lifted Annabelle in his arms and walked out, surprising everyone.
Avery watched them leave, shaking her head. "I pity Blake's future," she muttered. "Elder Edmund built his company with sweat and tears, and if it falls into his gullible grandson's hands, bankruptcy is inevitable."
"Can you get me a first aid kit?" Evelyn asked a staff member as she took off the gown. The lady nodded and exited the room.