Sandra sat at her desk, fingers flying across the keyboard as she worked through the latest project reports. The office was quiet, except for the tap-tap-tap of her keyboard. It was the kind of afternoon when the minutes dragged, yet she was too focused to notice. Working directly with Evelyn, however, required extra effort. Sandra sensed Evelyn was looking for a reason to accuse her of shirking her duties.

Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her work. Unease settled in her stomach when she saw Michael's name on the screen. Taking a deep breath, she answered.

"What's up, babe?" Michael's voice was calm and to the point. "Any luck getting the video off Evelyn's phone?"

Sandra sighed, frustrated. She had tried, but Evelyn was too careful, always keeping her phone close. "No," she admitted. "I haven't been able to get to it. She's been more guarded than usual. If I didn't know better, I'd think she knew what I was up to—or maybe she does. She acts like a know-it-all witch."

Michael exhaled loudly. Sandra could almost see him pinching the bridge of his nose in irritation. "Forget it," he said. "It's been days, and since my aunt hasn't done anything, it seems she listened to me and decided not to pursue the hotel incident. Let's leave it alone for now. We'll get it when she least suspects."

Relief washed over Sandra. That video had been a constant worry. Then, Michael's next words made her heart skip.

"Let's meet after work tonight," he said. "Come over to my place."

Sandra's eyes darted around the quiet office. Instinctively lowering her voice, she said, "Won't that be risky? You never know who's watching."

Michael chuckled dismissively. "At this point, my place is probably safer. You can leave your car and take a cab. I'll be waiting."

Before Sandra could respond, another call came in. A smile lit her face when she saw it was Derek's mother.

"Mike, I have to call you back," she said hurriedly. "Your aunt is on the other line."

"Alright," Michael said. "Let me know what she says."

Sandra ended the call and immediately called Mrs. Stone. Forcing a bright, respectful tone, she greeted, "Hello, Rebecca. How are you doing today?"

Though Sandra's casual tone grated on her nerves, Mrs. Stone maintained her calm. "I'm fine, my dear. Are you busy? I'd like to go shopping, and I was hoping you could accompany me," she said cheerfully.

Sandra's heart leaped. This was an opportunity to secure her place in the Stone family—one she couldn't pass up. "No, I'm not busy at all," she lied smoothly. "Where would you like to meet?"

"I'll text you the details. See you soon," Mrs. Stone said before hanging up.

A smile of triumph curved Sandra's lips. She quickly gathered her things, eager to make a good impression.

On her way out, she noticed Evelyn's desk was empty. Sandra paused, her brows furrowing. Where had Evelyn gone? She was tempted to investigate but decided against it. Whatever Evelyn was up to didn't matter; Mrs. Stone was waiting.

As Sandra drove to the upscale mall, she called Michael to let him know she was meeting his aunt. She didn't want Michael interfering. She could deal with him later.

Mrs. Stone was already seated at the mall restaurant, sipping wine and looking elegant.

She greeted Sandra with a sweet smile. "Thank you for coming on such short notice, darling."

"It's my pleasure. I'm happy to help," Sandra said brightly.

They headed to a nearby boutique. As they walked through the high-end clothing and accessories, Mrs. Stone began picking out items, handing them to Sandra, who carried them without complaint. Sandra's arms ached, but she didn't show it. She wanted to appear reliable.

Although Mrs. Stone knew the load was excessive, she continued piling on more items she didn't need. This was her petty way of making Sandra suffer until everything was revealed and she received proper punishment.

After several hours of shopping, they ordered iced coffees. Mrs. Stone eyed Sandra over the rim of her glass. "My 60th birthday is coming up soon."

Sandra's eyes widened. "That's wonderful! Do you have plans?"

Mrs. Stone nodded, her gaze steady. "Yes, and I'd like you to help me plan it."

Sandra's heart soared. This was huge. "Of course! I'd be honored. What kind of event are you thinking of?"

Mrs. Stone took a slow sip. "Something intimate. Just the families—mine and yours."

Sandra blinked, surprised. "My family? Does that mean my parents are invited?"

Mrs. Stone nodded. "Yes. It's going to be a significant night."

Sandra's mind raced. Was Mrs. Stone hinting at a proposal? "I'll make sure it's perfect," she promised.

Mrs. Stone leaned back, her expression unreadable. "I don't want anything extravagant, just something that brings the families together," she said, implying the party wasn't the main event.

Sandra nodded eagerly. "Leave it to me," she said confidently. After a pause, she added, "Would it be alright if I invited Evelyn? I know you're not fond of her, but she's still family."

Mrs. Stone's lips thinned into a slight smile. "As long as you can guarantee she won't cause trouble, I suppose she can come."

Sandra smirked inwardly, picturing Evelyn's shock. "She won't cause any trouble," Sandra promised sweetly. "I'll handle her."

As they left, Sandra's mind buzzed with plans. The party would be her moment. Evelyn would be humiliated, and she would secure her place beside Derek. She just had to play her cards right.