Chapter 446

Wealthy families like the Rivers were no different from any other elite dynasty. Money and reputation were their only priorities. With both secured, they could easily bury any scandal that threatened to surface.

Even if whispers of their private affairs leaked, no media outlet dared expose them. Only a select few held insider knowledge about the Rivers, and they knew better than to speak a word.

Under these circumstances, Evelyn had no choice but to step into the lion's den if she wanted answers. She had believed clearing her mother's name would be straightforward—after all, DNA tests confirmed she wasn't Gregory's child.

But now, with rumors swirling that she was the product of an affair, the situation had grown complicated. She refused to accept that her mother could have been a mistress. Determination burned in her chest—she would uncover the truth, restore her mother's honor, and make those who spread lies pay.

"Boss, aren't you worried the Graysons will find you if you return to New Capital City?" Sebastian asked, his voice laced with concern. "I have reliable intel that Mister Nathaniel is still searching for you."

"The best hiding spot is in plain sight. They won’t expect me to be right under their noses," Evelyn replied coolly. "And I won’t abandon my search for my mother just because of him."

A recent news segment flashed in her mind, and her lips curled into a bitter smirk. "What if he does find me? I owe him nothing. Besides, I heard he’s about to get engaged to Amelia. He’s probably hunting me down just to hand-deliver an invitation."

Sebastian’s surprise quickly turned to disgust. I actually thought he was a decent man—someone worthy of her. How wrong I was. Getting engaged barely a month after she left? At least Evelyn’s too sharp to have fallen for him.

"Alright, boss. I’ll pack our things and have Seraphina arrange transport."

"Thanks," Evelyn murmured, leaning back on the sofa and closing her eyes.

Better to have Seraphina handle it. Public transport leaves trails. She wasn’t afraid of Nathaniel finding her—she just wanted to avoid the inevitable chaos that followed every encounter with the Graysons.

A few days later.

Rivera Group Headquarters, HR Department.

Oliver Kingsley sat through interview after interview, his patience wearing thinner with each candidate. The position wasn’t just any job—it was executive secretary to the president. Standards were high.

Qualifications, appearance, and poise were all scrutinized. Those who passed Oliver’s screening would meet Samuel Rivers’ right-hand man for final approval.

So far, none had impressed him.

None of these people would last a day with Mister Rivers. It’s impossible to find someone competent, discreet, and without ulterior motives.

Most applicants were women dressed more for a gala than an interview. Their heavy makeup and calculated smiles did nothing to hide their real intentions.

They’re not here to work—they’re here to climb into Samuel Rivers’ bed. If I hire one of them, I’ll never hear the end of it.

The latest candidate, a woman with exaggerated curves and a plunging neckline, flipped her hair and flashed a practiced smile. Oliver barely glanced at her before waving her off. "Not suitable. Next!"

Seconds later, Evelyn walked in and took a seat.

By now, Oliver was exhausted by the parade of unqualified hopefuls. He rubbed his temples, barely looking up as he muttered, "Tell me, why did you apply for this position?"

Evelyn met his gaze evenly. "The pay is excellent."