Chapter 123

Benjamin casually wiped the blood from his split lip. "It's nothing. Just walked into a door by accident. Now, what was it you wanted to tell me?"

Maxwell fidgeted nervously. "Madam sent me to bring you home. Your university entrance exams are coming up. If you don't study harder, she's threatening to send you to military school."

A deep frown creased Benjamin's forehead.

Evelyn smirked. "Better run along now. Wouldn't want mommy to put you over her knee, would you?"

Benjamin's face flushed crimson at being humiliated in front of his new acquaintance. "Stop treating me like a child! I haven't been spanked since I was twelve!"

Maxwell gave Evelyn a curious look. He couldn't understand why Benjamin was hanging around this 'Mrs. Grayson' person he used to despise. And why was she dressed so impeccably today? But Benjamin's injury took priority. Even if the stubborn boy refused hospital treatment, the family doctor needed to examine him immediately. If anything happened to Benjamin, Maxwell would bear the full brunt of the family's wrath.

Without further delay, Maxwell grabbed Benjamin's arm. "Come on, sir! If we're late, your father will tan your hide even if your mother doesn't!"

Evelyn burst out laughing while Benjamin's composure shattered. He kicked Maxwell in frustration. "Shut your mouth! When have I ever been spanked?"

Maxwell backtracked quickly. "Of course, of course! My mistake! You've never been spanked!"

"Let go of me! I can walk by myself!" Benjamin snapped.

Evelyn thoroughly enjoyed watching Benjamin being dragged away against his will.

"Evelyn!" Cassandra's shrill voice cut through the air.

Turning, Evelyn saw her stepsister storming toward her like an angry bull. "So this is where you've been hiding! I've searched everywhere! Too lazy to do your job properly, so you came here to swing like a child?"

Evelyn remained unruffled. "I looked for you too but couldn't find you. Got tired, so I rested here."

Cassandra glared. "Get up this instant!"

Evelyn stood without protest.

Cassandra plopped onto the swing with an air of superiority. "Listen carefully. My godfather is introducing me to someone very important soon. You'll attend to my every need!"

'Godfather?' Evelyn raised an eyebrow. 'That middle-aged man she was cozying up to earlier?'

The godfather in question was Vincent Blackwood, a renowned film director attending the banquet to secure funding for his new project. He'd provided Cassandra's invitation and promised introductions to several high-profile investors. If any took a liking to her, her career would skyrocket.

The thought made Cassandra nervous. Having an assistant would boost her image. At least Evelyn's hideous outfit ensured she wouldn't steal the spotlight.

"Pay attention! You'll need to serve not just me, but pour drinks for the VIP too. He's a top-tier socialite!"

Evelyn nodded. "Understood. Who exactly are we meeting? Knowing might help me prepare better."

Cassandra preened. "Only the heir to one of the most powerful families - Nathaniel Grayson himself!"