Chapter 59
The truth was, Evelyn still felt deeply unsettled. In her current state, she stood no chance against Victoria.
Alexander's behavior today had been particularly puzzling.
As she pondered this, movement caught her attention from the hallway.
Evelyn looked up just as Alexander's imposing figure came into view. The rain still fell steadily outside, making his usual icy demeanor seem even colder.
Their eyes met unexpectedly. His gaze was so intense it felt like drowning in dark waters.
Evelyn's pulse quickened inexplicably. Just as she prepared to look away, a blur rushed past her.
Victoria clutched her cheek dramatically, sobbing as she threw herself against Alexander's chest.
"Alex..." Her voice trembled with manufactured distress.
Here we go again.
Evelyn smirked in weary amusement. This performance was getting tiresome.
Alexander's eyes remained locked on Evelyn for several heartbeats before he turned his attention to Victoria. "What happened?" His voice was smooth velvet - a tone he'd never used with Evelyn.
Victoria buried her face deeper into his chest. "It's all my fault. Evelyn did nothing wrong. Alex, if you must blame someone, blame fate for bringing us together at the wrong time. Don't force Evelyn to divorce you. I'm just afraid... if this continues, she might really hurt me and Ethan. I can't let anything happen to our child again."
Her words dripped with false martyrdom, each syllable carefully crafted to implicate Evelyn.
When Alexander's questioning gaze turned to her, Evelyn didn't bother explaining. Instead, she nodded cheerfully. "Absolutely right. So you'd better watch your back, mistress. Next time I snap, I might not stop at just you - that little brat could be fair game too."
Victoria's sobs hitched dramatically. She dabbed at dry eyes with theatrical precision.
"Alex, I'm terrified. Maybe we're just not meant to be. I'll raise Ethan alone."
With this dramatic declaration, she pulled away - only to stumble theatrically near the hallway entrance, collapsing in a carefully staged fall.
Evelyn rolled her eyes. Honestly, this was getting ridiculous.
"Victoria!" Alexander rushed to her side, concern etching his features.
The sight sent a sharp pang through Evelyn's chest. How many times had he watched her crumple in real pain without lifting a finger? How often had he been the one to push her down, then walked away without a backward glance?
Her fists clenched as she turned toward the dining room.
Moments later, Alexander entered with a limping Victoria in tow. He guided her to a chair with exaggerated care, then instructed Mrs. Harrington to bring her special pasta.
Victoria shot Evelyn a triumphant glance when Alexander wasn't looking. "Alex, my ankle really hurts. I should stay tonight. I keep spare clothes and toiletries here anyway."