Chapter 279

Evelyn set down her chopsticks, a mocking smile playing on her lips. "Julian Roscente, you've learned to bow your head."

She never expected to hear so many apologies from him.

The once-arrogant young master of the Roscente family now spoke with such humility.

Julian gave a bitter laugh. "This past year, I've tasted the bitterness of life."

His long fingers tapped lightly on the table. "First the lawsuit, then the counterfeit antiques scandal. The Roscente assets shrank by billions. Someone is clearly pulling the strings behind the scenes."

His eyes darkened at the mention of the Ashcroft family.

"Evelyn, I was blind before." His voice was low. "I hope you'll accept my apology."

She arched a brow. "Why come to me about your family's troubles?"

"Because you always see what others don't." Julian leaned forward. "You predicted both crises. I suspect someone is targeting the Roscentes, just like they did to the Ashcrofts."

A flicker passed through Evelyn's eyes.

Since the Evans family incident, she'd sensed an invisible net tightening around them.

"Be careful lately." She picked up a piece of fish. "All the major families could be targets."

Julian's pupils constricted. "You mean..."

"I don't have concrete evidence yet." Evelyn's tone was calm. "But if you're not careful, you'll be the next one sleeping under a bridge."

His face paled.

Clenching his fists, he whispered, "Evelyn, help me."

She thought of the photos Nathan had sent, her expression thoughtful. "Let's wait and see."

"I can't wait!" Julian's voice trembled. "My father's hair has turned white from worry."

Evelyn suddenly laughed. "Why would you think I know anything?"

"You're investigating Alexander Durand." Julian met her gaze directly. "And... you're not ordinary."

He leaned back in his chair. "Only now do I see Isabella Langley's true colors."

Sunlight streamed through the window, casting shadows across his sharp profile.

Evelyn scoffed. "Didn't someone say Isabella was kind and gentle, while I wasn't fit to carry her shoes?"

"Or that I was some country bumpkin who lowered your standards just by sitting with you?"

Julian's ears turned red. "Enough..."

"I was blind before." His voice was hoarse. "I'd never known hardship, never understood real suffering."

He looked up, his eyes filled with unprecedented sincerity. "I've truly changed."

Evelyn paused, momentarily taken aback.