Chapter 305
The air in the hall seemed to freeze as all eyes locked onto the slender figure at the center.
Evelyn Roland walked toward the microphone stand, her high heels clicking with elegant precision.
Her fingers lightly brushed the microphone as a faint smile played at the corners of her lips.
"I'll handle this matter personally."
Her cool voice carried through the venue with undeniable authority, amplified by the sound system.
Bianca Savigny hurried forward and whispered something in her ear. Evelyn gave a slight nod, a sharp glint flashing in her eyes.
The contestants in the audience instinctively shrank back.
Despite her gentle smile, an icy chill ran down their spines.
Sebastian Valdemar stood in the corner, his gaze never leaving her. This was his first time witnessing Evelyn's commanding presence in public.
"Miss Roland, this wine tasting competition concerns the reputation of our entire industry."
Ross suddenly spoke up, his face plastered with a fake smile. He emphasized the word "reputation," but his eyes darted toward Evelyn's brothers.
The room fell so silent you could hear a pin drop.
Before Evelyn could respond, two tall figures stepped protectively in front of her.
"Mr. Macmillan seems rather impatient?"
Sebastian's voice was cold as ice.
Julian Roland was more direct: "Shall I remind you to watch your tone?"
Beads of sweat formed on Ross's forehead as he hastily waved his hands. "A misunderstanding! We'll take our leave now."
The crowd scattered like startled birds, leaving only the four of them standing in the empty hall.
"Evelyn..."
Bianca hesitated, words caught in her throat.
Julian reached out to ruffle his sister's hair, his voice instantly softening. "Let me handle this?"
"I want to do it myself."
When Evelyn lifted her gaze, dark currents swirled in her eyes.
"Alright."
Julian gave her hair another gentle tousle, even lighter this time.
Sebastian took a step forward, only to be intercepted.
"An honor to finally meet you, Mr. Valdemar."
Julian extended his hand, his smile not reaching his eyes.
Their handshake was brief, but the air between them crackled with tension.
"My sister and I have family matters to discuss."
The dismissal couldn't have been clearer.
Sebastian's jaw tightened. After a long, lingering look at Evelyn, he finally said, "Goodbye."
Evelyn lightly tugged at her brother's sleeve, her gaze following Sebastian's retreating figure.