Chapter 276

Adrian Valentine tapped his fingers lightly on the desk before speaking abruptly. "Have you ever looked into Evelyn Roland's background?"

Julian Roscente's hand paused mid-pour, nearly spilling the wine. "Why would I?"

That docile girl's history seemed transparent at a glance.

Adrian's gaze darkened. As expected, even Julian hadn't noticed anything unusual. But even if investigated, nothing would likely surface.

"Do you know where she lives?" Adrian pressed further.

Julian slammed his glass down. "Damn it! Now that you mention it, I only have her number saved. I don't even know which district she lives in!"

A knowing smirk curled Adrian's lips.

Someone once overlooked now seemed shrouded in mystery upon reflection.

Julian suddenly lowered his voice. "She's always coming and going with Nathan Aldridge. Could it be..."

The possibility lodged like a stone in his chest.

How had he failed to recognize such a radiant gem before?

The blinders of status truly obscured one's vision.

Adrian's eyes frosted over instantly. "How would I know?"

Julian chuckled with feigned nonchalance. "Right, it's been nearly two years since your divorce. But I'll have my answer tonight."

Adrian stood and left without another word. Confirming Victor Ashcroft's safety was enough.

They'd been brothers since childhood.

Even after betrayal, he still wished for the man's survival.

Right now, his agitation bordered on murderous.

The undisputed king of the business world now stood with a clenched jaw and bloodshot eyes.

Julian watched Adrian depart, his own gaze turning icy.

He hadn't mentioned family matters.

Vincent Langley was his prime suspect, but evidence remained elusive.

Isabella Langley constantly hovered around them, skillfully extracting information in casual conversation. Only she could have uncovered the Roscente family's secrets.

Killing intent swirled in Julian's eyes. Only now did he see Isabella for the venomous serpent she was.

He walked to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Dark clouds pressed heavily against the skyline.

Winter was coming to Vienna.

It was time Vincent Langley paid his dues.

His father's investigation had already uncovered traces of the man's misdeeds.

Wind howled against the glass as Julian picked up his phone and dialed a familiar number.

Evelyn Roland was about to head out for a run when the caller ID made her frown.

"Yes?"

"Evelyn, good afternoon." Julian's voice carried false cheer.

She halted mid-step. Since when were they on such familiar terms?

Julian was Adrian's closest friend, one who'd often joined Victor in mocking her—

Convinced she'd married above her station.

"Mr. Roscente, are we acquainted?"

The words pierced Julian's chest. They'd all assumed Evelyn married Adrian for money.

Now he knew how wrong they'd been.

"I called to warn you—don't wear a skirt today."

A chill raced down Evelyn's spine. What was he planning?

"Why not?"