Chapter 495

Samuel's sharp gaze swept over Evelyn. His frown deepened when he noticed her bare shoulders. "Where's the coat I gave you?"

Evelyn glanced down, realizing with a start that the coat was missing. 'Damn it!'

The coat must have slipped off when she climbed through the bathroom window into the adjacent room. Pregnancy had dulled her reflexes - a mistake she'd never have made before.

She forced a calm smile. "My apologies, Mr. Sinclair. I accidentally spilled wine on it, so I left it downstairs. I'll reimburse you at full price. Just notify HR to deduct it from my paycheck."

Samuel felt a pang of guilt for his earlier suspicion. He waved dismissively. "Don't worry about it. It's just a coat."

"Thank you, Mr. Sinclair." Evelyn exhaled quietly.

Beside them, Amelia clenched her teeth. That coat had been a limited-edition designer piece she'd personally selected for her brother.

'Since when does Samuel care so little about his belongings? Is Evelyn really that special to him?'

She'd severely underestimated this secretary. Never had she seen her usually indifferent brother show such leniency toward any woman.

"What's all this commotion?" A commanding female voice cut through the crowd. The tone carried both elegance and authority.

"Madam Sterling!"

"Good evening, Madam Sterling!"

The crowd parted for a striking woman in her thirties, her sapphire mermaid gown radiating sophistication.

Amelia rushed forward eagerly. "Aunt Beatrice!"

Gabrielle seized the opportunity to flatter. "Madam Sterling, that gown is exquisite! You look absolutely divine tonight!"

The woman barely acknowledged Gabrielle, ignored Amelia's eager smile, and fixed her piercing gaze on Samuel. "Explain this gathering, nephew."

"Minor incident. Already resolved." Samuel replied curtly.

Madam Sterling detested disorder - especially at her meticulously planned birthday gala.

"Who's your companion tonight, Samuel?" Her sharp eyes landed on Evelyn. "I don't recognize this woman."

"My plus-one," Samuel said simply. "Also my new executive assistant."

Evelyn offered a polite nod. "Evelyn Whitmore, at your service, Madam Sterling. It's an honor to attend your event."

Madam Sterling's assessing gaze swept over Evelyn's attire. "Is that Valentina's 'Starlight Veil' collection?"