Chapter 13

Adrian Valentine released his grip, a flicker of remorse flashing in his eyes.

Five distinct bruises marred Evelyn Roland's pale neck.

"Cough... cough..." She gasped for air, her lungs burning with each ragged breath.

Her heart felt pierced by a blade.

This man was truly merciless.

Only his cruelty could shatter her completely.

Leaning against Sophia Blanchet, Evelyn's gaze turned glacial.

Adrian stepped closer again.

His slender fingers gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. "Evelyn, remember this—what we had was never real. If you dare show your face again, I'll destroy you."

The farther she stayed, the better.

Evelyn's lips curled, but dark flames smoldered in her eyes.

She wrenched free, agony radiating through her chest. "Adrian Valentine, I'll return your pain tenfold."

Hatred churned in her gaze.

Adrian's knuckles whitened as he suppressed his emotions. "Try me."

A mocking smile played on his lips.

Her only weakness had been their past love.

Evelyn retrieved a wipe from her bag, meticulously cleaning where he'd touched her.

As if scrubbing away filth.

Adrian's expression darkened. "You think you're so pure? Weren't you living it up while I was gone?"

Evelyn stiffened. "What are you implying?"

Isabella Langley cut in sweetly, "Adrian, didn't you promise to buy me a gift?"

She hid her satisfaction.

Their enmity suited her perfectly.

Adrian tossed a card at Sophia. "Wrap everything."

Sophia snatched it angrily.

Evelyn gave her a calming look.

Isabella feigned remorse. "Sorry for taking your dress, Evelyn."

Evelyn smirked. "It suits you—just like that fake innocence."

Malice flickered in Isabella's eyes.

She'd never lost a game of deception.

Evelyn strode away without looking back.

Adrian's words gnawed at her.

He'd changed after returning from Eastalia four months ago.

Now he dared accuse her?

In the car, Evelyn texted Nathan Aldridge:

[Investigate Adrian's Eastalia trip four months ago.]

Nathan replied instantly: [On it.]

After grocery shopping at Regal Heights, Nathan called.

"Boss, Adrian's Eastalia records were wiped clean."

Evelyn frowned. "How?"

"Someone went to great lengths to cover it up."

Sunlight blazed outside.

No matter. Adrian meant nothing to her now.

Hanging up, she dialed Victoria Laurent. "Bring the painting."