Chapter 187

Adrian Valentine's gaze locked onto Evelyn Roland's direction.

He suddenly realized how long it had been since he last saw her cunning smile.

To outsiders, she was ice-cold.

Only in front of him did she reveal her childlike innocence.

Yet she had never shared the pain in her heart.

Throughout their relationship, she had always worn a mask.

Even when she was responsible for Christian Lefèvre's death.

He had never spoken of it to anyone.

All he wanted was for her to live well.

But watching her prepare to marry another man.

Jealousy was driving him mad.

Isabella Langley noticed Adrian's tension immediately.

"Adrian, Evelyn seems quite taken with that gentleman," she said with feigned innocence.

Inside, she was seething with envy.

Evelyn always attracted such exceptional men.

Vincent Ashcroft scoffed. "She relies on beauty and manipulation, nothing more."

He turned to Isabella.

"I heard you and Adrian have been together over a year. When's the wedding?"

He preferred Adrian marry someone of equal standing.

It would elevate the company further.

Surpassing Sterling Manor within a decade was within reach.

Then even Sebastian Cortez would have to step aside.

If only Christian were still here.

Vincent's hostility toward Evelyn stemmed from her alliance with Sebastian.

His sworn rival.

Isabella lowered her eyes demurely.

"That depends on Adrian's wishes."

Vincent thumped his chest.

"Leave the wedding plans to me. My family specializes in events."

Adrian cut him off coldly.

"Since when did you become so talkative?"

With that, he strode away.

Julian Roscente walked ahead, shoulders slumped.

He regretted how he had treated Evelyn.

His father had authenticated those antiques on his advice.

Every piece was a forgery.

They suspected sabotage.

But the mastermind remained hidden.

Adrian suddenly recalled Evelyn's warning.

"What were the results on those antiques?"

Julian's eyes turned icy.

"All fakes. We lost millions."

Adrian concealed his shock.

Evelyn had been right.

He needed to reassess his ex-wife.

Isabella's heart skipped a beat.

Evelyn truly had that ability.

Identifying counterfeits through a screen.

This woman was more dangerous than she'd imagined.

But Julian would never uncover the truth.

A shadow crossed her eyes.

Passing Evelyn's private room, Adrian hesitated.

Then continued walking.

Isabella was already plotting tonight's scheme.

She would make Julian believe Evelyn had deceived him.

That way Cassandra Valentine could secure the Roscente heir.

Controlling the Roscentes was easier than controlling Adrian.

She quickly messaged Cassandra with the plan.

The reply came instantly.

Agreed.