Chapter 416

Sophia Blanchet burst into the room like a whirlwind.

Evelyn Roland looked up to see the girl she hadn't met in over a year. The youthful innocence had faded from Sophia's features, replaced by a newfound maturity.

"Sis!" Sophia rushed forward and wrapped her in a crushing embrace.

Evelyn winced at the tight grip but couldn't suppress a smile. "Sophia, you've worked hard this past year."

Sophia released her and swiftly shrugged off her backpack. She'd spent the last twelve months abroad, digging into Isabella Langley's past.

"Look at this." Sophia pulled out a stack of documents. "You and Isabella weren't switched at birth. Vincent Langley orchestrated the whole thing. Isabella grew up overseas and only returned for elementary school."

Evelyn took the papers, her brow furrowing.

"There's more." Sophia winked mysteriously. "Guess who Isabella's ex-boyfriend is?"

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Ex-boyfriend?"

"Yep." Sophia produced several photos. "Christian Lefèvre."

Evelyn's pupils constricted. "Christian Lefèvre?"

"Correct." Sophia lowered her voice. "I found evidence suggesting Isabella and Adrian Valentine conspired to set the fire that nearly killed him."

Evelyn's fingers trembled. Now she understood why Christian had worn that bitter smile before losing consciousness.

Her chest tightened with fury. Three years of relentless effort, countless rare herbs—all to save a man who'd thrown his life away for that woman.

"Sophia, rest first." Evelyn grabbed the photos and turned to leave.

Victoria Laurent's voice rang from the kitchen. "Where do you think you're going? Drink your medicine first!"

Evelyn froze mid-step.

Victoria emerged carrying a steaming bowl of dark brown liquid.

Evelyn instinctively recoiled. "Do I have to?"

"No exceptions." Victoria's expression was stern. "You'll regret it when the fever returns."

Pinching her nose, Evelyn downed the bitter concoction, grimacing at the taste.

"Here." Sophia offered a piece of candied winter melon. "Your favorite."

Evelyn popped the sweet into her mouth, letting the sugary flavor neutralize the bitterness. As a child, she'd mistaken the translucent treats for fatty pork, salivating over them.

"I'm leaving." Evelyn grabbed her purse.

Sophia slung her backpack over her shoulders. "I'm coming with you."

"Aren't you tired?"

"Slept on the plane." Sophia looked refreshed.

They hurried out the door. Evelyn had tracked Adrian and Isabella to a private club for their secret meeting.