The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 316

The ceremony ended, and the massive crowd flooded toward the adjoining banquet hall like a tidal wave.

Evelyn stood near the backstage exit. She had barely survived the onslaught of aggressive brand reps when her phone buzzed again. Looking down at the caller ID, a soft, involuntary smile curved her lips.

She looked up, murmured something to her assistant, and then turned, slipping out through a side door and vanishing into the bustling crowd.

---

Second floor, VIP area.

Sebastian's eyes had never left that moon-white silhouette. He saw her check her phone, saw the sweet smile, and watched as she abruptly turned and left—

She was leaving?

He scowled deeply, spun on his heel, and sprinted for the stairs.

Lance barely had time to blink before he realized his boss was already flying down the steps.

"Boss! Slow down!" He scrambled to keep up.

Taking the steps two at a time, Sebastian tore through the crowd. But just as he hit the center of the hall, an arm shot out, blocking his path.

"Mr. Thorne!"

A middle-aged man in gold-rimmed glasses marched up, plastered with an overly eager smile. Two sharply dressed aides flanked him.

"I'm the President of Cartier Asia Pacific, Pierre Lindt. I've been looking everywhere for you! I didn't realize you were attending!"

Sebastian's frown deepened.

"What do you want?"

Pierre beamed. "Mr. Thorne, we spoke via email regarding the partnership between Thorne Enterprises and Cartier. I was hoping to discuss it in person. When I didn't see you inside, I figured you hadn't made it."

Sebastian looked straight past him, eyes glued to the backstage exit.

It was completely empty.

He took a deep breath, ruthlessly burying his frustration.

"Lance."

Lance materialized at his side. "Boss?"

"Find her," Sebastian commanded. "Track down exactly where she went."

"But..." Piper's eyes brimmed with tears. "I've waited years for this! I finally got to see her!"

Margaret patted her hand, dropping her voice. "I'll let you in on a little secret. Rumor has it Iris is looking to recruit fresh blood for her studio."

Piper's eyes practically popped out of her head.

"Seriously?!"

Margaret nodded. "Winning the grand prize means she's about to be flooded with high-profile projects. Her team is going to need an expansion. You just won Best New Designer. Play your cards right, and she might just pick you."

Piper was practically vibrating. "Ms. Chandler! Do you really think I have a shot?!"

"You absolutely do," Margaret smiled warmly. "Keep up the good work and wait for the call."

Piper nodded violently, sputtering with pure joy.

Margaret offered a few more words of advice before turning to mingle with the other guests.

Piper stayed put, aggressively tugging on Christian's sleeve, talking a million miles a minute.

"Christian! Did you hear that?! Iris's studio! That's the most exclusive design house on the planet! If I get in, my entire life is set!"