Chapter 109

With those final words, Sebastian grabbed his overcoat and strode out without a backward glance.

Evelyn watched his retreating figure until he disappeared through the doorway. The light in her hazel eyes dimmed gradually, like a candle being snuffed out.

Only hollow despair remained in her gaze now.

She had no idea what cruel punishment Alexander had in store for her this time. But she knew him too well - his methods would be merciless.

That memory still haunted her nightmares - Alexander standing like a demon in the snowstorm, watching indifferently as their daughter's ashes scattered in the wind. The ghost of his smirk still made her blood run cold.

Noticing Evelyn's red-rimmed eyes still fixed on the door where Sebastian had left, Alexander's temper flared. "Does his departure pain you so much? Evelyn Sinclair, am I invisible to you? I'm your husband."

He shoved her away violently.

Evelyn stumbled and crashed against the sofa armrest, her injured cheek scraping against the hard edge. A sharp pain shot through her jaw, making her teeth chatter.

"Clean up this mess. Whatever you were doing for that man, do it for me now!"

Lowering her lashes, Evelyn gave a bitter smile. "Of course, husband. Your wish is my command. I'll do anything to please you."

The way she said "husband" made Alexander's skin crawl as he watched her rise slowly.

Braving the winter storm, Evelyn went to purchase groceries before returning to prepare an elaborate meal. She drew Alexander's bath exactly to his specifications, moving like an automaton.

She dared not resist. Not when he held all the cards - everyone she cared about was just another pawn in his cruel game.

Just as Evelyn fetched a fresh towel, a searing pain exploded in her abdomen. She doubled over instantly, her face draining of color.

"Evelyn." Alexander's voice cut through the haze of pain.

She tried standing, but the agony pinned her to the cold tiles. Curled into a fetal position, her consciousness began slipping away...

"Evelyn Sinclair, are you ignoring me?"

His impatient tone barely registered. Biting her hand hard, the sharp pain brought momentary clarity. She lifted her head weakly just as Alexander's polished shoes came into view.

He looked down at her crumpled form with open disdain. "What pathetic act is this now? Another performance to manipulate me?"

Gasping for breath, Evelyn pleaded, "Mr. Blackwood...please...the painkillers...on the coffee table..."

Alexander studied her for a long moment before turning away.

When he returned, he dangled the pill bottle tauntingly. "This what you want?" he sneered at her trembling form by the bathtub.

Evelyn nodded weakly, reaching out. "Thank—"

Before she could finish, Alexander's lips twisted into a sadistic smile. He emptied the entire bottle into the toilet and flushed.

The swirling water carried away her last hope. Through blurred vision, she saw Alexander looking down at her like she was gutter trash. "Alexander...I'm really...not well..."

"So?" He chuckled darkly. "A little discomfort never killed anyone. Just like you told Sebastian - you won't die."

Her vision darkened at the edges as silent tears tracked down her cheeks.