Chapter 378

"Alright."

Evelyn's lips curved into a soft smile. She watched Alexander's car disappear down the tree-lined driveway before turning toward the imposing Montgomery Manor.

Though she'd visited before, tonight felt different.

Last time, she'd arrived dressed to impress, determined to outshine Victoria. Tonight, she wore simple elegance—no pretense, just herself.

The moment she stepped inside, whispers erupted among the staff.

Even in casual attire, Vivian Prescott carried an undeniable grace that commanded attention.

They recognized her as Lady Belle's renowned designer—the same woman recently entangled with Miss Montgomery's scandals.

Yet here she was, announced as the Kingsleys' honored guest. The maids exchanged puzzled glances.

Eleanor and William rose to greet her in the grand foyer. Their relaxed outfits still screamed luxury, every stitch and gemstone carefully curated.

"Please, have a seat, Miss Prescott," Eleanor gestured gracefully.

"Thank you." Evelyn settled onto the velvet settee, her gaze briefly skimming the lavish spread before them. The aroma of truffles and aged wine did nothing to stir her appetite.

William uncorked a six-figure Bordeaux, pouring the crimson liquid into crystal.

"We're delighted you could join us tonight," he said smoothly. "We hope you'll forgive our... past misunderstandings."

Forgiveness.

Evelyn's fingers traced the stem of her glass. Such an easy word to say, yet heavier than stone to truly grant.

When she remained silent, Eleanor shot William a nervous glance. He squeezed her hand reassuringly before continuing.

"Your reputation in jewelry design precedes you. Eleanor here shares your passion. Our company is launching a major project—we'd value your expertise. Name your price."

Ah. The bait. All for darling Victoria's sake.

Evelyn's laugh was light as champagne bubbles. "Money means little to me now. Soon I'll be Mrs. Blackwood—prestige comes with the title."

The Kingsleys stiffened.

Setting her untouched wine aside, Evelyn wandered toward the sunken living room.

"Would you like a tour?" Eleanor hurried after her.

Evelyn nodded, fingertips brushing the gilded banister. "Such a magnificent home. As a child watching movies, I'd dream of places like this—of parents who'd fill these halls with laughter. What a privilege that must be."

Something in her wistful tone made Eleanor's breath catch.

"You mentioned your parents before," Eleanor ventured cautiously. "I assume they're—"

"Lost me," Evelyn finished, her voice dropping to a whisper. "Just as you once lost your child. Careless parents, distracted at the wrong moment."

The air thickened.

William's grip tightened on his glass. Both Kingsleys found themselves unsettled by the storm in Evelyn's expressive eyes.

"How strange—our daughters share similar histories," Eleanor managed. "Though we were blessed to reunite with our precious girl after all these years." Her smile bloomed at the thought of Victoria.

The knife twisted deeper in Evelyn's chest.

"You've achieved so much," Eleanor pressed. "Surely you've had resources to search. Have you really never found them?"

Evelyn met her gaze squarely.

"Oh, I have."

The silence that followed could have frozen the wine in their glasses.