Chapter 126
Alexander Durand's genius was a fatal curse.
Years ago, they could only save his siblings.
The title of Sterling Manor heir forced Evelyn to remain hidden.
Overseas, he became the new master of Sterling Manor with assassins at his heels.
Everyone fought desperately to protect Evelyn.
This family bound by choice surpassed blood relations.
They would die for each other.
A bond even biological siblings might lack.
The Langley adopted daughter title offered only temporary safety.
Her future path required her own strength.
Evelyn understood this better than anyone.
He stayed in the country solely to guard her final steps.
Gazing at neon lights outside the window, Alexander's roguish smile surfaced in Evelyn's mind.
An invisible hand squeezed her heart.
"Sebastian," her voice feathered, "all these years... I've felt he's truly gone. Maybe he'll never return."
Sebastian Cortez gripped her slender shoulders.
Her sorrow constricted his chest.
"Let go," he murmured. "You've suffered enough."
Evelyn lowered her gaze with a faint nod. "Alright. Let's go home."
Sebastian opened the car door, shielding her as she entered.
The black sedan pulled away slowly.
Adrian Valentine stood in the shadows, watching taillights vanish around the corner.
She had long left his world.
The Evelyn who once adored him now carried someone else in her eyes.
He remained in the cold wind for hours.
Until Victor Ashcroft arrived.
"Mr. Valentine, Ms. Roland left with her father," Victor reported cautiously.
Adrian leaned back silently.
The rearview mirror reflected his clenched jaw.
The Roland family's secrets ran too deep.
That map was bait—yet he couldn't bear to risk her.
...
Aromatic warmth greeted Evelyn at home.
Scarlett Orlando devoured food with abandon.
The actress's elegance had evaporated.
Spotting Evelyn, her eyes brightened.
"Evelyn!" She swallowed hastily. "Can I move in with you?"
Victoria Laurent's shrimp and beef were irresistible.
Endless networking at the gala had left her starving until now.