Chapter 480

Beatrice Valentine gazed at Evelyn Roland with grandmotherly affection, the corners of her eyes crinkling with warmth.

"I'm so happy you came to visit this old woman."

She gently patted Evelyn's hand.

"You look much better since leaving that foolish grandson of mine. More vibrant. A woman should live for herself."

A sigh escaped Beatrice's lips as wisdom flickered in her aged eyes.

Evelyn smiled softly. She knew the elder had always been perceptive.

"Don't worry, Grandmother. I'm doing well now."

Her voice carried the calm of still waters, three years having smoothed away old wounds.

Beatrice glanced at her grandson standing by the window.

Adrian Valentine remained silent, his gaze never leaving Evelyn.

"Ah!" Beatrice sighed again.

She remembered asking three years ago if he'd regret his choice. His answer had been resolute.

Now he alone must swallow this bitter fruit.

"Evelyn, where are you living now? I know you left with nothing—"

Evelyn interrupted gently, "I have my own place. Please don't concern yourself."

Beatrice's expression turned grave.

"Child, at my age, Adrian is my greatest worry. These years seeking vengeance for his father have cost him too much."

She clasped Evelyn's hand tightly.

"I don't expect forgiveness. But you deserve the truth. The divorce was to protect you. Someone meant you harm—"

Adrian's brow furrowed. Why was his grandmother revealing this now?

Evelyn withdrew her hand. "Let the past stay in the past."

Her eyes held steady certainty.

"Mr. Valentine and I are finished. You've always understood things clearly."

Adrian's face darkened instantly, fists clenching at his sides.

Pain flashed in Beatrice's eyes.

Three years. She'd thought the truth would surface in two.

"Reclaiming your heart now would be harder than scaling heaven."

A bitter smile touched her lips. "This is my fault."

"Grandmother." Adrian's voice was low. "The blame is mine alone. But I regret nothing."

Beatrice studied her grandson before sighing helplessly.

Suddenly she shifted topics. "How is your grandfather's health?"

Evelyn's head snapped up, shock widening her eyes.

"You...know my grandfather?"

Beatrice nodded. "Frederick Roland and I are acquainted."

Adrian's pupils constricted. Evelyn had never mentioned family.

Evelyn remained cautiously silent.

"Don't worry," Beatrice soothed. "I mean no harm."

"He's currently at the Red Sea. Returning soon." Evelyn answered quietly.

Beatrice stiffened. "The Red Sea?"

Her fingers absently traced her teacup's rim as her gaze drifted into memory.