Chapter 100

When Evelyn made that statement, the expressions of her coworkers—including Catherine—shifted dramatically. They stared at her as if she were some bizarre creature.

"How heartless can one person be?" Several female colleagues sneered.

"Poor Victoria, having to deal with this lunatic constantly harassing her."

"Exactly! First stealing someone's fiancé, now threatening to kill her? That's beyond twisted!"

"We should keep our distance before she snaps and drags us down with her."

Evelyn sat silently at her desk, absorbing every deliberately projected insult.

She didn't respond. Just stood up abruptly.

The gossiping women scattered like frightened birds, terrified of what the unstable woman might do.

The irony almost made Evelyn laugh. She walked straight to Sebastian's office.

Seeing Evelyn enter, Sebastian rose politely and gestured to a chair.

His gaze caught on Evelyn's gaunt features and the two angry red scars marring her right cheek. He visibly startled.

"What happened?" Genuine concern laced his voice.

Evelyn forced a smile. "It's nothing, Mr. Whitman. I came to resign."

"Resign?" Sebastian studied her carefully. "Why?"

"My presence is disrupting the department. You've seen the rumors circulating about me."

Understanding dawned in Sebastian's eyes.

"Thank you for your kindness during my time here. I'll clear my desk immediately."

"Evelyn."

Sebastian stopped her as she turned to leave.

"I believe you. There's no need to resign."

Evelyn froze, warmth flickering in her eyes.

I believe you.

For years, she'd ached to hear those words.

Yet they came from Sebastian, not Alexander.

"You'll accompany me to the company gala this Friday."

Evelyn gaped at him, her scars throbbing painfully.

How could this disfigured face stand beside such an impeccable man?

She refused instantly. Sebastian remained adamant.

After work, Evelyn wound a scarf tightly around her ruined cheek, keeping her head bowed.

Every woman cherished beauty. Though she'd long stopped caring, no female could accept such disfigurement.

Approaching her apartment, Evelyn spotted a familiar black sedan idling at the curb.

Her feet turned to lead. Her pulse stuttered erratically.

The tinted window lowered, revealing Alexander's chiseled profile. Evelyn ducked behind a pillar, blood draining from her face.

Memories assaulted her—Alexander standing like a demon in the snowstorm, smashing their daughter's urn.

Her lips bled where she bit them. Her hands shook violently.

She couldn't endure more of his cruelty.

Evelyn waited endlessly for him to leave. The car remained.

Only when dusk fell did Alexander finally drive away after taking a phone call.