Amelia Sterling’s intense stare remained fixed on Evelyn.

Evelyn felt a flicker of discomfort under the scrutiny.

She briefly looked away, composing herself before speaking. “Miss Sterling, have you come to discuss the design project?”

Amelia answered with deliberate casualness. “Naturally. Though I find it difficult to focus without my usual coffee.”

She leaned back, a blend of playfulness and pointedness in her tone. “You lead the Design Department at Aethelgard Industries. Surely, accommodating a client’s simple preference is within your purview?”

Evelyn immediately recognized the provocation.

Such hostility was familiar territory. Years of navigating corporate politics had sharpened her instincts.

Her naive days were long gone, replaced by a keen understanding of people’s motives.

She had no illusions about Amelia’s feelings toward her.

The underlying tension had been palpable since their encounter at the Sterling estate.

This clarity brought Evelyn a strange sense of calm. A faint smile touched her lips as she maintained her posture. “As you noted, my expertise lies in design. Personal errands, however, are best handled by dedicated services.”

Before Amelia could object, Evelyn was already reaching for her phone. “Given your background, you might not be familiar with concierge apps. I can recommend an excellent one for you.”

Amelia’s expression tightened, her smile vanishing. “I expected a more personal touch for such a simple request.”

Evelyn responded without hesitation, her voice firm. “That would be a misallocation of my skills. You sought me out for my talent. Why would I diminish that by running errands?”

Amelia studied Evelyn, struck by the quiet confidence radiating from her.

She clenched her jaw, unsettled by Evelyn’s complete lack of intimidation. Most people would be falling over themselves to please a Sterling.

Yet Evelyn behaved as if the Sterling name held no power over her.

This woman possessed a remarkable boldness.

The thought sparked a cunning idea in Amelia’s mind.

It occurred to her that the staff at Aethelgard Industries were probably unaware Evelyn was married to the company’s founder.

Did Evelyn even know the connection herself?

Perhaps she was determined to succeed on her own merits, refusing to leverage her husband’s immense influence.

Amelia found the possibility amusing. A subtle smirk played on her lips. “Evelyn, I heard a rumor you’re married. Is it true?”

Evelyn’s brow furrowed slightly, puzzled by the sudden shift. “Is my marital status relevant to our discussion?” she asked, her tone politely detached.

Amelia gave a soft, dismissive laugh. “There’s no need to be defensive. I was merely making conversation.”

Her eyes drifted to Evelyn, who had remained standing throughout. “Forget the coffee. Let’s sit down and begin properly.”