Chapter 34

Evelyn stopped in her tracks, meeting Margaret Valentine's gaze with calm detachment.

"I've divorced your son as you wished, Mrs. Valentine. I'm no longer your daughter-in-law and owe you nothing. You have a new daughter-in-law now—let her perform your acupuncture treatments."

Margaret's eyes flickered. Her spinal stenosis had plagued her for years, and only Evelyn's skilled hands had brought relief.

"I admit I looked down on you," Margaret said stiffly. "The Valentines need a society heiress who can support Adrian. I appreciate you knowing your place."

Such was the pragmatism of wealthy matriarchs.

Evelyn's response was serene. "I hope you get everything you desire."

Margaret frowned. Why did Evelyn seem so unshaken? She'd prepared to humiliate her, yet her barbs met only empty air.

Without another word, Evelyn ascended the stairs.

Beatrice Valentine beckoned warmly. "Evelyn, come here."

"Grandmother." Evelyn approached, her icy demeanor thawing. The elderly woman had been a beauty in her youth, and age had only deepened her kindness.

"How have you been?" Evelyn asked softly.

"Well enough, though I miss you." Beatrice sighed. "That foolish grandson of mine will regret this."

Evelyn smiled. "I'll stay in Vienna. I'll visit when I can."

"Good girl." Beatrice hesitated. "Why did you walk away empty-handed? You contributed to the company too."

Evelyn's smile was faint. Clean breaks required clean slates.

"I'm doing fine." She knew Adrian struggled at Valentine Corp—his father's death remained unsolved, and his uncle circled like a vulture.

Beatrice slid a document across the table. "These are my shares. I'm transferring them to you—"

"I can't accept that." Evelyn recoiled.

"Don't refuse yet." Beatrice lowered her voice. "These shares must go to someone I trust. Adrian's uncle seized control once before—"

"So this is your game, Evelyn!" Margaret burst in, eyes blazing. "You refused alimony to target Beatrice's shares!"

Adrian followed, his gaze darkening as it locked onto Evelyn.

She stood. "I should go. Take care, Grandmother."

"Greed doesn't become you," Margaret sneered.

"Enough!" Beatrice snapped. "I invited Evelyn. Blame me!"

"Mother—"

"The matter is closed." Beatrice cut her off. "Since you've discovered my intentions, know this—I'll only entrust my shares to someone worthy. If Evelyn refuses, they stay with me."

Regret shadowed Beatrice's face. This confrontation would only make Evelyn's life harder.

With a slight nod, Evelyn turned away without glancing at Adrian.

Moonlight bathed her as she exited the Valentine estate, an ache blooming in her chest.

Some wounds never healed.

Just before she reached the gates, a strong hand seized her wrist.