Chapter 173
Her mother...
No, she was Victoria's mother.
Evelyn let out a bitter laugh, her mind replaying the painful memories of Eleanor and William striking her across the face to protect Victoria.
The humiliation still burned fresh in her mind.
She could still feel the sharp pain from William's kick that had made her cough up blood.
They never once looked at her with concern.
Evelyn's fingers dug into the doorframe as she watched Eleanor pull out her phone to call Victoria.
"Vicky darling, you can come out now. Let's go for a spa treatment, then we'll pick out your birthday outfit. Tomorrow's your special day when Alexander will propose. I want you to shine brighter than any star. My precious daughter deserves to be the most dazzling princess in the world."
Princess? Precious daughter?
The words twisted like a knife in Evelyn's heart.
She couldn't bear to listen anymore.
Turning abruptly, she didn't see the employee approaching with refreshments.
The tray crashed to the floor, scattering coffee cups and pastries.
"I'm so sorry, Miss Prescott! Terribly sorry!" The staff member frantically apologized.
Evelyn shook her head. "It was my fault. Don't worry about it."
As she spoke, Eleanor emerged from the private room.
"What's all this commotion?" Eleanor's gaze landed on Evelyn's back. "And you are...?"
"This is our boutique manager, Miss Prescott," another employee explained quickly.
Without turning around, Evelyn murmured, "Please excuse me. I have urgent matters to attend to. Everyone, please take good care of our guests."
Stepping outside, Evelyn couldn't shake Eleanor's doting words to Victoria.
Watching the city traffic flow by, a cold smile curved her lips.
Thanks to Victoria's social standing, tomorrow's birthday gala would be spectacular, attended by all the elite of Willowbrook.
Victoria planned to use public pressure to force Alexander's proposal.
The next morning found Victoria preening before her mirror, adjusting the custom couture gown and priceless jewels that would make her the undisputed queen of tonight's event.
From her balcony perch, she surveyed the arriving guests with satisfaction.
Her breath caught when Alexander's car pulled through the gates.
Rushing downstairs, she was disappointed to find him in casual attire instead of formal wear.
Still, his striking presence outshone every other man present.
"Alexander, you're here," she cooed. "Just seeing you makes me happier than anything."
"As long as you're happy," came his cool reply.
Something in his tone unsettled her, but she dared not question it.
She followed him into the garden where a magnificent seven-tiered cake was unveiled, topped with figurines of a bride and groom.
The crowd gathered as Eleanor and William nudged Alexander forward. "My daughter has waited long enough for your proposal. Don't you think it's time?"
"It's Victoria's birthday," William added. "What better occasion?"
"Propose! Propose!" the guests began chanting.
Victoria blushed prettily. "Alexander..."
Before she could continue, a melodious voice cut through the cheers.
"Miss Lancaster's birthday celebration is certainly... eventful. A public proposal? How fortunate I decided to attend tonight."