Chapter 171

Evelyn had just called Alexander moments ago, her tone sharp and demanding. Nothing in her voice suggested she might do anything reckless.

Yet Alexander's expression darkened. He seemed convinced, his concern for Evelyn's safety evident.

"If Mr. Blackwood is occupied, I can exit here," Vivian offered.

Alexander hesitated, his gaze lingering on her before finally pulling over.

Vivian stepped out gracefully, flashing him a polite smile. "Until next time, Mr. Blackwood."

She turned and walked away without looking back.

Alexander didn't drive off immediately. Through the rearview mirror, he watched her retreating figure, replaying the moment his fingers had instinctively closed around her wrist.

The answer pulsed clearly in his chest.

Only when the engine roared to life did Vivian glance back.

She quickly hailed a cab, instructing the driver to follow Alexander's car. To her surprise, their destination was Pinecrest Heights.

This place held her fondest memory—the first time she had met Alexander as a bright-eyed girl.

Why had he come here now? And why had he called her Eve while clutching her so desperately?

Before she could ponder further, a familiar silhouette caught her eye.

Victoria stood by the water's edge.

Vivian smirked. So this was where they'd first met too.

When Victoria spotted Alexander approaching, tears welled in her eyes.

"Alexander, do you remember our first meeting?" Her voice trembled, but his face remained impassive.

"We were so happy here. You promised to marry me, to cherish me forever. You swore to protect me, and I believed you. All these years, I waited, thinking our time would come. Yet despite everything, we're still not truly together." She wiped her tears dramatically, inching closer.

"Have you stopped loving me? Did Evelyn's poisonous words before she died poison your heart? Is that why you refuse to marry me?"

Her breath hitched. "If that's true... then let it all end here—"

Victoria spun toward the crashing waves.

Alexander watched her for a long moment before finally seizing her wrist.

Victoria melted into his arms, triumphant. "Alexander, I knew I still mattered to you! These years of being called a homewrecker meant nothing—as long as I have you!"

From the distant road, Vivian observed their embrace, her lips curling in disgust.

The sea breeze carried salt to her tongue. Sunlight danced on the waves like scattered diamonds.

A picturesque scene.

Yet it turned her stomach.

She pivoted to leave—just as Alexander looked up.

The glare obscured his vision, but not enough to miss that face.

Evelyn?

He shoved Victoria aside and sprinted toward the retreating figure.