Chapter 158
The receptionist's face darkened instantly.
"Are you here to cause trouble?"
Evelyn Laurent met her gaze with icy clarity.
"I'm simply exercising my rights as a customer."
When Ethan Sullivan visited last time, he could order anything from the menu, reserve private rooms, and even request half portions.
Why were the rules different for her?
"Miss Sun."
A smooth male voice sounded behind them.
The voice was oddly familiar, but Evelyn didn't bother turning around.
Sebastian Royston stepped beside her, smiling at the receptionist.
"Accommodate the lady's request. Since it's her first visit, I'll take responsibility for any breach of protocol."
Evelyn flicked a glance at him, her expression turning colder as she subtly distanced herself.
This was the third son of the Sullivan family—the same man who had publicly defended Sophia Lowell at the banquet.
The clown she had slapped in front of everyone before Ethan kicked him out.
The receptionist remained impassive.
"Apologies, Mr. Royston. You don't have that authority."
Sebastian's smile froze.
A dangerous glint flashed in his eyes.
"Say that again."
"The owner's orders." Her tone was strictly professional. "You hold no privileges here."
New policy—Sebastian Royston had zero special treatment at this establishment.
His knuckles whitened as he struggled to maintain composure.
"Seems I overstepped."
Turning to Evelyn, he feigned regret.
"Pity I couldn't help."
Evelyn looked at him like he was trash.
"Did I ask for your help?"
Sebastian's fists clenched audibly.
His gentlemanly facade nearly cracked.
This bitch!
"Sister, that's no way to speak!" Sophia Lowell peeked out from behind Sebastian, voice trembling. "Mr. Royston meant well..."
Her words trailed off weakly.
She couldn't control her shaking around Evelyn.
But to impress Sebastian, she forced herself to speak up.
Evelyn's gaze sliced toward her.
"Who gave you permission to interrupt?"
Sophia immediately retreated behind Sebastian.
The receptionist snapped a warning.
"One more disturbance and I'm calling security!"
Evelyn stated calmly,
"Evelyn Laurent."
The name landed like a guillotine.
The receptionist opened her mouth to scoff—then her eyes bulged.
"You...you're Miss Laurent?"
She scrambled from behind the counter, bowing at a perfect ninety degrees.
"My deepest apologies, Miss Laurent! I failed to recognize you!"