Chapter 72

Evelyn's vision blurred as she caught sight of polished Italian loafers and tailored trousers. Her heavy eyelids fluttered upward.

Through the haze, a strikingly familiar face swam into view before darkness claimed her consciousness.

The sterile scent of antiseptic greeted Evelyn when she awoke. Olivia sat vigil by her hospital bed.

"You're finally awake!" Olivia's voice trembled with barely restrained emotion. "Evelyn Sinclair, have you completely lost your mind? Going out in that downpour with your condition!"

Evelyn noted Olivia's bloodshot eyes and quivering lips. Her best friend was clearly fighting tears.

"See? Still breathing." Evelyn forced a weak smile, though she could feel her body protesting more than usual.

The memory of swearing on her life to Alexander resurfaced bitterly. How ironic that her reckless vow might soon come true.

"Who brought me here?" Evelyn asked, recalling the shadowy figure before she collapsed.

"Some devastatingly handsome stranger," Olivia said, perking up. "Deep voice, broad shoulders - the nurse couldn't stop gushing. He used your phone to call me." She nudged Evelyn playfully. "Secret admirer?"

Evelyn barked a humorless laugh. "What man would want damaged goods like me?"

"Stop that!" Olivia snapped. "You're gorgeous, brilliant, and any man would be lucky to have you. You're just too hung up on that worthless Alexander to see it."

Was she still hung up on Alexander?

The question left Evelyn strangely hollow.

After three days of forced rest, Evelyn finally regained enough strength to function.

Alexander, surprisingly, hadn't made any moves against her during her recovery.

Time was slipping through her fingers, but Evelyn refused to surrender. Not until she'd avenged Amelia.

She'd sent out dozens of resumes. Today, she had her first interview.

Dressing carefully in professional attire, Evelyn headed to the corporate office in the financial district - just blocks from Blackwood Enterprises.

Fate proved cruel as Victoria Lancaster emerged from the building just as Evelyn arrived. Probably heading to meet Alexander, coffee in hand.

Victoria's face twisted in recognition. "Evelyn Sinclair! You're even more pathetic than I imagined. Couldn't even leave poor old Henry Blackwood alone - must have drugged the senile fool to make him defend you!"

Evelyn refused to engage. "Unlike you, Victoria, not everyone resorts to underhanded tactics. Henry sees you for what you are."

"Bullshit!" Victoria's composure cracked. "You poisonous little witch! If you hadn't poisoned Alexander's mind about my past, why would he suddenly be investigating me?"

This surprised Evelyn. Had Alexander actually listened to her warnings?

"Don't look so smug," Victoria hissed through clenched teeth. Her frantic denial betrayed her fear - Alexander's investigation must be getting close to the truth.

"You bitch!" Victoria suddenly focused on Evelyn's interview attire and the company logo. "Job hunting? Let's see who'd dare hire you after this!"

With a vicious flick of her wrist, Victoria flung scalding coffee directly at Evelyn.