Work ended.

Evelyn went straight to a nearby salon.

She changed into her evening gown.

A stylist applied her makeup.

It was elegant, subtle, and perfect for the occasion.

She studied her reflection.

A nod of approval.

She felt presentable.

Earlier, she had felt ill.

Her complexion had been pale, washed out.

The makeup worked wonders.

Now she looked vibrant, composed.

Arriving at the banquet looking sickly would have been a disaster.

Satisfied, she gathered the delicate fabric of her gown.

She slid into the waiting car.

The destination was the Sterling family's grand banquet.

Thirty minutes into the drive, they had barely moved.

They were still frustratingly close to Aethelgard Industries.

Evelyn frowned.

She lowered the window to assess the situation.

The traffic was a complete standstill.

"Mrs. Blackwood, we haven't moved an inch," the driver said, his tone strained. "At this pace, we will be very late."

Evelyn's voice was steady. "It's fine. Just focus on driving safely. That's what matters."

Rush hour. This was expected.

Her phone vibrated.

She answered immediately.

"Evelyn, where are you?" Alexander's voice was warm, concerned.

A small smile touched her lips. "Not close. The traffic is terrible. I'll be late. If you get there first, please go in. Don't wait for me."

On the other end, Alexander's brow furrowed. "Should I come to you?"

He paused, his voice laced with regret. "I should have picked you up from your office."

Evelyn gave a soft laugh. "You'd just be stuck here with me. There's no avoiding this. Really, it's alright."

Alexander sighed quietly.

He was disappointed.

As the head of Aethelgard Industries, he could easily clear a path.

But tonight was the night he would reveal his true identity.

He had to restrain himself.

He would wait.

Evelyn sensed the subtle shift in his tone.

She quickly spoke to reassure him. "It's fine. I'll be there very soon. Have you gone inside already?"

"I'm at the main entrance now," Alexander replied.

Evelyn gave a small nod, even though he couldn't see it. "You should go in first. If you meet any influential guests, use the opportunity to network. You gave me an invitation, so I won't have any trouble getting in."

Her words drew a soft chuckle from him.

She was clearly hoping he would seize the chance to build connections with other business elites.

Alexander chuckled again, low and soft.

What Evelyn didn't know was that the most powerful person attending this banquet was, in fact, her own husband.

"Alexander? Are you still there?" Evelyn asked, her voice tinged with confusion at his prolonged silence.

A faint smile touched his lips. "I heard you."

Since she insisted, he would follow her suggestion and enter first.

After ending the call, the warmth in Alexander's expression vanished.

It was replaced by his customary composure and an air of quiet authority.

He stepped out of the luxury car.

His presence alone immediately drew the gaze of everyone nearby.

Guests began whispering to each other, curious about his identity.

At that moment, another tall, imposing figure strode confidently toward him.

The appearance of this newcomer intensified the crowd's curiosity.

The man stopped before Alexander and offered a slight, knowing smile.

"It's been a while, Mr. Blackwood."