Chapter 356

The moment Victoria saw Alexander returning with Evelyn, her smile stiffened. She forced a wounded expression onto her face.

"Alexander..."

"Vivian and I have already eaten. You can dine alone," Alexander replied coldly. His gaze flickered to Evelyn before adding, "Let's go upstairs."

"Alexander!" Victoria hurried after them, blocking their path. "I know you have deep misunderstandings about me. You might even believe I hurt Evelyn in the past. But I swear, my conscience is clear."

"Miss Lancaster, your conscience was devoured by wolves long ago," Evelyn remarked smoothly. "How can you claim it's still intact?"

Victoria's fingers twitched, fury simmering beneath her skin. But she swallowed it down—she had a plan to execute.

"Alexander, Ethan's kindergarten is hosting a parent-child hike this Saturday. Both parents need to attend. No matter what you think of me now, Ethan is still our son. I hope you'll participate with us."

"You can go alone," Alexander dismissed without hesitation.

Victoria's face paled. Just as she opened her mouth to plead, Evelyn spoke up instead.

"Alexander, you should go." She gave him a soft smile. "I'll bring Amelia too. We can meet up there. Think of it as spending time with me, alright?"

The moment Evelyn said those words, Alexander's expression softened instantly. "Anything for you."

"You're too good to me."

Evelyn beamed, looping her arm through his.

Victoria trembled with suppressed rage.

The triumphant glint in Evelyn's eyes only fueled the murderous storm brewing in Victoria's gaze.

Saturday arrived swiftly.

Evelyn dressed in a sleek tracksuit and brought Amelia to the kindergarten.

Originally, Sebastian had planned to join them, but an urgent call had forced him to fly to France the night before.

Though early, the kindergarten entrance buzzed with energy.

Four buses stood ready, packed with nearly three hundred parents and children.

Evelyn boarded with Amelia. Moments later, her phone buzzed—Alexander's text.

She turned and spotted Victoria and Ethan standing beside him, waiting to board another bus.

Ethan looked withdrawn, his small hand trapped in Victoria's grip. His usual spark was missing.

This child hated crowds. He always retreated into dark corners, nursing his loneliness alone.

Evelyn's heart ached. She nearly rushed off the bus to embrace him—but the engine roared to life, pulling away.

Half an hour later, they arrived at Willowbrook's most scenic outskirts—a popular spot for picnics and hiking.

The crisp autumn air was perfect for outdoor activities.

Watching Amelia's delighted grin, Evelyn suddenly felt like a failure of a mother.

She'd been so consumed by vengeance that she'd neglected her daughter.

Even if she despised Amelia's father, she couldn't deny that this child was her reason to keep living.

"Ew, Amelia! So it's true—you don't have a daddy!" A sneering boy pointed at her, smirking. He planted his hands on his hips, mocking her. "Liar! You said your daddy was handsome, but he doesn't even exist!"

He stuck out his tongue. "My daddy is the handsomest!" He jabbed a finger toward a burly man nearby.

Amelia's eyes widened. "I'm not lying! I have a daddy! He's the best!"

"You don't! Where is he, then? Liar!" The boy yanked at her braid. "Last time, you lied that your daddy would beat me up if I bullied you! But he's not real!"

He reached for her hair again.

Evelyn moved to intervene—but a warm presence stepped in before her.

A large hand caught the boy's wrist mid-air.

"Ow! That hurts!" the brat whined. He looked up—and froze.

"Who the hell are you? Don't touch my kid!" The boy's father stormed over, face red.

Alexander lifted his chin, effortlessly scooping Amelia into his arms. His voice was ice.

"I'm Amelia's father. Alexander Blackwood."