Chapter 471
The news of Alexander Montgomery's imminent arrival sent Evelyn Carter's heart racing.
Her palms grew clammy at the thought.
If Alexander arrived before Evelyn finalized her divorce from Nathaniel Whitmore, questions would inevitably arise.
Andrew Montgomery wouldn't be able to keep the truth hidden any longer.
Knowing Alexander's volatile nature, Evelyn feared he might cause trouble for Nathaniel upon discovering the situation.
She needed to act fast. No more delays could be tolerated.
The following morning, Evelyn walked into the university library as usual, but Danielle Spencer was conspicuously absent.
Remembering yesterday's awkward encounter outside the library, Evelyn pulled out her phone. "Danielle, are you coming to study today?"
Evelyn understood Danielle's pride and sensitivity, especially given their shared background as orphans. Clear communication was essential.
Meanwhile, Danielle sat reclined in a plush chair at an exclusive spa. She handed her phone to Victoria Sinclair with a smirk. "Evelyn just texted me."
"Danielle, that girl clearly doesn't respect you. How dare she humiliate you like that yesterday?"
"Honestly, you outclass her in every way. Why would a wealthy, handsome man choose her over you?" Victoria remarked.
Danielle's cheeks burned with humiliation. The memory of yesterday's rejection had kept her awake all night.
Walking across campus this morning, she'd imagined whispers and mocking laughter at every turn.
Victoria opened the university forum on her phone.
"People are already gossiping about yesterday's spectacle outside the library. Some are calling you delusional. It's disgusting."
Danielle's face drained of color. "What should I do?"
"This can be fixed easily. That man from yesterday is a billionaire. He wouldn't seriously be interested in Evelyn."
"Probably just some casual flirtation after their meeting at the university event. Evelyn played hard to get for money."
"And you've heard the rumors about her Fleur Design Competition win and scholarships, right? People say she slept her way to those achievements."
Danielle's envy flared. Why did Evelyn always get everything? That handsome billionaire should have been hers!
Victoria smiled knowingly. "Expose Evelyn's true nature, and her reputation will be ruined. Wealthy men care about appearances - he'll drop her immediately."
"But isn't that too harsh?" Danielle hesitated. Evelyn had been kind to her, and Danielle already carried guilt for stealing Evelyn's place as the Lane family heiress's childhood friend.
"Danielle, if you don't act now, how will you face campus gossip when these forum posts spread?"
The words struck home. Danielle valued her reputation above all else and couldn't bear public humiliation.
After a tense silence, Danielle accepted the USB drive from Victoria with a reluctant nod. "Okay, but what if Evelyn finds out?"
"Don't worry. Even if she does, she'll be too busy with her own problems to bother you. Besides, you have me, don't you?"
Somewhat reassured, Danielle pocketed the drive. As she prepared to leave, Victoria stopped her.
"Why not finish your facial first? Use my membership. Ask for whatever treatments you want."
"Thank you, Ms. Sinclair." Danielle's eyes lit up with greedy delight. She'd never imagined experiencing such luxury.
Watching Danielle's vain excitement, Victoria slipped from the private room, her smile vanishing instantly.
"Keep close watch on Danielle. No mistakes," she ordered an assistant.
"Ms. Sinclair, I've heard Mr. Alexander is returning to Bern City. The exact date isn't confirmed, but likely within days."
"I know. Alexander will come. After all, I've announced we've found the true Montgomery heiress. Naturally he'd want to see for himself."
Victoria's expression turned icy at the mention of the real heiress. The Montgomerys' urgency in these matters always reminded her she was merely a placeholder.