Chapter 449

Evelyn finished speaking without hesitation. Her sharp gaze swept over Alexander’s face before she turned and walked away.

Alexander caught her wrist, forcing her to stop.

She glared at him, her eyes icy. "What now? Planning to punish me with your usual brutality? Alexander, I’m not that naive Evelyn who let you trample over her anymore. I’m not afraid of you."

She met his dark, intense stare without flinching. There was an unshakable defiance in her expression, regal and untouchable.

Alexander didn’t react with anger. Instead, his burning gaze lingered on her flawless face, searching for something—anything—that might betray her words.

Deep down, he already knew everything she’d said was a lie.

But as long as he pretended to believe it, he could keep her close.

Now, the illusion had shattered.

After a long silence, the corner of his lips curved slightly. "I have one question for you."

Evelyn regarded him coldly.

"Do you still love me?"

A low, mocking laugh escaped her lips, as if he’d told the most ridiculous joke.

When her laughter faded, she tilted her head. "Alexander, don’t you find it pathetic to ask that? Love you? Did you ever care about my love? I’m sure a woman like me loving you would disgust you, wouldn’t it, Mr. Blackwood?"

His heart twisted painfully. The answer he dreaded had come.

He stared into her hate-filled eyes, his own dimming with defeat.

"Alexander, I did love you. But the more you hurt me, the more that love died."

"I’m awake now. I don’t dream of your affection anymore. Even if you feel something for me, I don’t care. All I want is to watch you fall. I’ll be thrilled when you lose everything!"

She smirked, then yanked her wrist free.

Without another glance, she walked away, her steps steady and unfeeling.

Alexander remained rooted in place, watching her retreating figure. Agony clawed at his chest, yet a strange satisfaction flickered in his eyes.

As long as you’re alive and happy, I’ll gladly lose it all.

Evelyn stepped out of Blackwood Enterprises, the winter sun warming her skin. She lifted her face to the sky, inhaling deeply. A faint smile touched her lips.

Alexander, you never saw this coming, did you?

Neither did I.

With that, she strode to her car and drove off.

The moment news of Alexander’s return spread, Margaret rushed to his office.

When she burst in, she found him seated by the floor-to-ceiling windows, lost in thought, his head bowed. She hurried to him.

"Alexander!" she cried frantically.

He frowned, disturbed by the intrusion.

"Alexander, something terrible has happened!"

Annoyed, he tucked away the photo in his hand and lifted his gaze, sharp with irritation. "No disturbances. Get out."