Chapter 163

"You can't blame me for pointing it out!" Celeste huffed, crossing her arms. "The transformation is just too shocking to ignore."

At that moment, Victor clapped his hands sharply to gather everyone's attention. "Now that we're all present, let's move to the dining room. Dinner is served."

"Finally," someone muttered as the group filed into the lavish dining hall and took their seats.

The meal was halfway through when Victoria suddenly turned to Evelyn with a saccharine smile. "Your father mentioned you've grown quite close to the Caldwell family. Is that true?"

Evelyn arched a delicate brow, her voice smooth as silk. "Yes, that's correct."

Victoria's face lit up instantly. "Wonderful! The Caldwells are currently seeking partners for their new venture. Gregory's company is very interested. Since we're family, why don’t you put in a good word with Mr. Caldwell for him?"

A quiet scoff escaped Evelyn’s lips. So this is the real reason for the sudden warmth.

Everything clicked into place—Victoria’s rare defense of her earlier, the uncharacteristic kindness. Victoria had always looked down on her, the illegitimate daughter of Victor Sterling, barely worth a second thought.

But now that she needed a favor, false sweetness dripped from her words.

Evelyn maintained her composed smile. "I'm afraid I can't help you with that, Aunt Victoria."

Victoria’s brows furrowed, irritation flashing in her eyes. "What do you mean? You’re practically family to them! It’s just a small request."

Evelyn’s expression didn’t waver. "I don’t involve myself in the Caldwells' business affairs. Please don’t put me in this position."

Victoria’s face darkened, her tone laced with venom. "How quickly people forget their roots when they climb higher. Fine. If you won’t help your own family, then so be it."

Evelyn remained silent, her gaze steady and unyielding. She refused to dignify the jab with a response.

Frustrated by the dismissal, Victoria whirled toward Victor. "Aren’t you going to say anything about this?"

Victor’s jaw tightened at Evelyn’s defiance, but then he remembered—Grace had already tried and failed to sway her regarding the Caldwells. If even her own mother couldn’t persuade her, Victoria stood no chance.

Before he could speak, Diana’s voice cut through the tension.

"Business matters shouldn’t involve the younger generation. Victoria, don’t pressure Evelyn."

Victoria blinked, stunned by Diana’s unexpected defense. She hadn’t seen that coming.