Chapter 343

Evelyn's voice cut through the air like a blade, sharp and unyielding.

Both Alexander and Victoria froze mid-step at her outburst.

What had she just said?

Ashes?

My ashes?

A cold shiver raced down Victoria's spine as memories flooded back.

Three years ago, she had been blind when she attended Alexander and Evelyn's engagement party.

To sever all ties with him—to finally free herself from the chains of her obsession—she had agreed to return everything to him.

Including what was left of her.

Even though she hadn't died, the ashes remained.

But surely Alexander had destroyed them long ago?

Her thoughts shattered when she felt Alexander's grip tighten around her wrist.

His fingers were like steel, betraying the storm of emotions he was suppressing.

Evelyn rushed forward, her eyes glistening with false sorrow.

"Alexander, please don't make this harder than it has to be. Everything I'm doing is for you."

She wore the mask of a martyr, as if her actions were noble.

Victoria lifted her gaze to Alexander's face. His eyes were dark, dangerous—yet he didn't lash out at Evelyn.

A realization struck her.

She softened her expression, letting a gentle smile curve her lips. "Alexander, I'm just happy you came with me today. I don't want to cause you any trouble."

Her fingers reached up, adjusting his tie with practiced ease.

Then she met his gaze, unwavering.

"I'm glad I finally understand how you feel."

With that, she turned away, signaling for the staff to help her out of the dress.

"Vivian," Alexander called after her.

She paused, glancing back over her shoulder.

His jaw was clenched, words trapped behind his lips.

Victoria—no, Vivian—smiled.

"I'll wait for you."

Her voice was light, but as she walked away, she caught the venomous smirk Evelyn failed to hide.

She didn't react.

She simply left.

Back at home, Victoria couldn't shake Evelyn's words from her mind.

Three years ago, she had been declared dead.

Sebastian had meticulously faked the evidence.

She knew Alexander had taken her ashes from Olivia.

But what could he have possibly done with them?

He had despised her in life—hated her body, her presence.

Surely he would have destroyed what remained of her.

Yet Evelyn's words suggested otherwise.

And Alexander's reaction...

That was the most telling part.

He had been silent.

What was he hiding?

Meanwhile, Evelyn seethed.

She had successfully disrupted their wedding fitting, but she knew Alexander would be furious.

It didn't matter.

She would rather burn the world down than let Vivian Prescott have him.

The next morning, Victoria arrived at her boutique as usual.

A courier was waiting with an urgent package.

Inside was a wedding invitation.

From Evelyn.

Victoria laughed softly.

This woman never learned.

Her phone buzzed.

She already knew who it was.

Sure enough, Evelyn's voice dripped with smug satisfaction.

"Vivian, you got the invitation, didn't you? Don't be late. I'm counting on you."

Victoria's response was smooth.

"Miss Lancaster, such a gracious invitation. I do hope you won't regret it when the time comes."