Chapter 112

"You two are sworn enemies!" Victoria chuckled as she settled into her seat, adjusting the plush cushion. "Should I order some champagne to go with the show?"

"There's nothing worth watching," Evelyn replied smoothly, draping a cashmere throw over her lap. "If she keeps to herself, so will I. Peace is preferable."

She reclined her seat with practiced ease, prioritizing professionalism over personal grudges. Business trips weren’t the place for petty drama—especially not when DR Holdings' reputation was at stake.

"How delightfully boring!" Victoria turned to Evelyn with a mischievous grin. "But can you really trust her not to strike first?"

If Vanessa Blake were the type to avoid conflict, their history wouldn’t be littered with so many explosive confrontations.

"Wait—who’s that man beside her?" Victoria squinted, curiosity piqued.

She recognized Dominic Reeves instantly, but this stranger was definitely not him. Weren’t those two practically glued together at every public event?

Evelyn had already noticed Dominic’s absence. But as long as Vanessa and her mysterious companion didn’t provoke her, she couldn’t care less who he was.

"Victoria, didn’t you say the sampling starts tonight?" Evelyn shot her a pointed look before closing her eyes. "Shouldn’t you rest while you can?"

What a masterful dismissal. Victoria smirked, then followed suit, shutting her eyes. Corporate perks like first-class flights were rare—might as well enjoy them.

While the two women feigned serenity, Vanessa seethed in her seat.

She kept stealing glances, her irritation mounting as Evelyn and Victoria appeared utterly unbothered.

First-class was supposed to be exclusive. Why did Evelyn Carter have to invade her space yet again?

Vanessa clenched her fists. Dominic had been too busy with essential oil negotiations to accompany her—all because of Evelyn. And yet, the woman responsible slept soundly, as if she hadn’t upended Vanessa’s life.

Her resentment simmered until a warm hand closed over hers.

Lucien Dubois didn’t open his eyes, but his lips curved knowingly. "Revenge isn’t about public spectacles," he murmured. "There are far more elegant ways to ruin someone."

Vanessa stayed silent.

He finally looked at her, his gaze sharp. "And I’d be happy to assist."

The two-hour flight left Vanessa restless. The thrill of first-class had long evaporated, replaced by smoldering fury—and Lucien’s unnervingly persistent grip on her hand.

Something told her this trip to Silverpine Valley wouldn’t be the glamorous escape she’d envisioned. Dominic had warned her about Lucien’s ulterior motives, but offending him wasn’t an option. Caution was her only shield.

And then there was Evelyn. Of course she’d be at the sampling. It was infuriating how effortlessly the woman thrived after leaving DR Holdings—now flaunting her first-class upgrades like some triumphant victor.

Vanessa’s nails dug into her palm.

Evelyn Carter would not enjoy peace for long.