San Francisco is the Vance Group's territory.

Alexander Vance had just stepped into the ballroom when executives immediately swarmed him.

He dealt with the crowd, but his gaze fell on Evelyn Ross.

She was like a nimble fish, slipping silently out of the crowd and hiding in the corner dessert area.

The woman picked up a piece of cake and took small bites.

She thought she was well hidden, unaware she had already attracted countless gazes.

Alexander's fingertips twitched slightly, as if still feeling the delicate touch of her waist...

He loosened his tie upon hearing someone fawn, "Mr. Vance, is Mrs. Vance not here? You've hidden the lady boss too well."

Someone nearby nervously tugged at the speaker.

Who didn't know Mr. Vance hated people prying into his private affairs?

Yet Alexander merely replied冷淡地, "Next time."

Everyone exchanged glances.

Mr. Vance was being so agreeable today?

...

Chloe Roland couldn't find Evelyn and felt disappointed.

She continued looking around.

Ryan Roland suddenly spoke. "I have good news."

"What is it?"

"Remember that Miss Xu who insulted you?"

Chloe's eyes darkened. "I remember."

That encounter still left her fearful.

Ryan's voice turned cold. "I cut off her supply sources."

"Brother..."

"Business requires toughness." Ryan's gaze was sharp. "She must pay the price."

Julian Evans approached unnoticed and interjected, "Mr. Roland did the right thing! That kind of person shouldn't be let off lightly!"

He looked at Chloe. "You're too kind. In my opinion, this punishment is too light."

Ryan nodded. "I should thank young Mr. Evans for the reminder."

Julian smiled. "It was nothing."

Chloe pursed her lips. "Where is my savior?"

Julian pointed toward the restroom. "She went to touch up her makeup."

Chloe immediately said to Mrs. Roland, "Mom, let's find our savior."

Mrs. Roland pushed the wheelchair toward the restroom.

Isabella Ashcroft happened to be coming out.

As they passed each other, Chloe suddenly turned her head.

Mrs. Roland asked, "What's wrong?"

Chloe clenched her fists.

She thought she had moved on, but seeing Isabella brought those vicious words rushing back.

"Love addicts should just die"—

This phrase had nearly shattered her last psychological防线.

Trembling, she took out her phone and texted Ryan: [Brother, that woman is here. I don't want to see her.]

Ryan received the message just as Isabella approached arm-in-arm with Julian.

She was about to greet him when Ryan asked coldly, "Is the other Miss Xu here too?"

Julian and Isabella both froze.

The three looked around but couldn't find the person they sought.

Isabella asked cautiously, "Is something wrong?"

Ryan looked displeased. "Is the Vance Group trying to slap the Roland family in the face?"

Julian immediately declared, "I'll handle this right away."

...

Evelyn remained alone in the corner.

Although she attracted many gazes, her aloof aura kept people from approaching easily.

A few who tried to chat her up were dismissed with a few words.

Jason Lawrence swaggered over, eyes bright with delight but pretending arrogance. "Why alone? Who brought you?"

His tone was full of disapproval toward her inviter.

Evelyn轻笑. "Quiet."

"True."

Jason wanted to say more but was interrupted by a commotion.

A group surrounded Julian, flattering him. "Young Mr. Evans, we hope for your favor in the future!"

Julian raised his glass with a faint smile. "I'm just a vice president."

"Don't be modest. We heard you're about to be promoted to project department manager!"

Everyone chimed in:

"Young Mr. Evans is so young and accomplished!"

"The collaboration with the Roland family is thanks to your efforts!"

Julian basked in the praise but remained humble. "It's all my uncle's doing."

"Mr. Vance is capable, but too unapproachable..."

"If we can secure ties with the Roland family, the group's development will be smoother!"

...

Jason snorted coldly. "Who knows what methods he used. He's been acting arrogantly in the company lately!"

He then said with frustration, "My cousin is too proud! He knows the Rolands but refuses to build good relations... If only I could make that connection!"

Evelyn glanced at Mr. Roland conversing with Ryan and stood up. "Come on, I'll introduce you to the Roland family."