Chapter 178

Evelyn wasn't intimidated by the Laurent family. Someone had to be held accountable, but she never anticipated...

That Edmund would involve the royal lawyer.

Still, Mr. Peterson would likely notify the Laurent family. Would Lucas become their next target?

Gregory hesitated before answering slowly. "I'm not certain either. I only know he has a complicated background."

Evelyn suddenly asked, "Do you know my mother's identity then?"

Gregory and Edmund both knew her mother. Edmund was aware her mother was a de Arma, but what about Gregory?

Gregory lowered his gaze and shook his head. "I don't know your mother's past. She never spoke of her family."

Evelyn wanted to say more when her phone buzzed with a text.

It was from Nathan!

She headed to his office. Just as she reached for the door handle, a woman's voice stopped her cold.

Was that... Lydia?

"Nathan, Evelyn clearly dislikes me. She makes me do all the heavy lifting. Can I transfer here instead?"

Evelyn's fingers froze on the door handle, every word crystal clear.

She'd overestimated Lydia. The girl was just like all the others.

Nathan's voice cut through the silence. "Why would Evelyn dislike you?"

"I don't know! Grandmother says she's temperamental and lacks proper manners. Grandmother worries she'll anger you too. She probably doesn't obey your every word, does she? But I would—"

The office door swung open.

Lydia whirled around, her face draining of color when she saw Evelyn. Guilt made her unable to meet Evelyn's piercing gaze.

Evelyn strode to the desk, planting her palms firmly on its surface. "You summoned me here to witness this performance?"

Nathan's lips curved. "What do you think of the show?"

Lydia stammered, "Evelyn, that's not what I meant! Nathan, please—"

"Why should I help you?" Nathan's voice turned glacial. "Who exactly do you think you are to me?"

Lydia trembled but maintained her innocent facade.

"Besides," Nathan continued smoothly, "Evelyn and I are deeply in love."

He pulled Evelyn into his arms before she could react, pressing her head against his shoulder.

To any observer, they appeared the picture of perfect devotion!

Lydia bit her lip, tears welling in her eyes.

"I adore this fiery temperament of hers. It's utterly captivating." Nathan tightened his embrace.

Evelyn found herself speechless.

Watching Lydia flee in tears, she looked like nothing more than a pathetic clown.

"Mr. Goldmann," Evelyn gritted out, "release me now."

The man seemed deaf to her demand, tilting her chin up instead. "You heard. Your cousin was being rather... dishonest."

Evelyn's lashes fluttered as she pushed away slightly. "Don't men prefer demure women?"

"Who told you that?" Nathan's eyes narrowed as he pulled her closer. "I prefer women exactly like you."

"Nathan, let me go!"

"No."