Chapter 119

Didn't Liam worry Victoria would be jealous when he used that affectionate nickname for Evelyn?

Evelyn shut her eyes tightly, her voice trembling as she whispered, "Can you come home soon?"

Liam hesitated. "Victoria is—"

Evelyn interrupted sharply. "Never mind. Just send someone to pick me up. There's something I need to give you."

Liam's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"

A heavy silence stretched between them before Evelyn finally exhaled. "Divorce papers."

The line went dead silent. The suffocating tension could be felt even through the phone.

Evelyn's chest constricted painfully. Each breath felt like swallowing shards of glass.

After what felt like an eternity, Liam's voice came through, firm and decisive. "I'll be there immediately."

Was he that eager to end their marriage?

"Fine," Evelyn forced out before ending the call.

She slumped back in her chair, letting her phone clatter to the floor. Her entire body felt drained, the migraine pounding behind her eyes becoming unbearable.

The tears she'd been holding back finally spilled over, tracing hot paths down her pale cheeks.

Meanwhile, Liam strode back into the living room from the balcony, his expression grim. "Archibald, I must return home immediately. There's an urgent matter."

Victoria immediately dropped the fruit she was holding and rushed to cling to Liam's arm, fresh tears springing to her eyes. "No! You can't leave me, Liam! Please!"

Archibald rose angrily. "Let him go, Victoria! He's already wasted enough time indulging your tantrums! Have you no shame? The man has a wife and responsibilities!"

Margaret frowned at her granddaughter's distress. "Take Victoria with you, Liam. She'll behave better by your side."

"Don't be ridiculous, woman!" Archibald snapped.

"I don't care! I need Liam! I can't live without him!" Victoria sobbed hysterically, her grip tightening.

Liam took a deep breath and forcibly peeled her fingers away. Turning to the private physicians, his voice turned icy. "Restrain her if she attempts self-harm. Administer IV fluids if she refuses nourishment. Sedate her if necessary. Under no circumstances is she to be left unattended."

Victoria froze in shock. Even the doctors looked taken aback.

Liam's glare intensified. "Am I understood?"

The physicians quickly nodded. "Yes, Mr. Blackwood."

Without another word, Liam shoved Victoria toward the medical staff and strode out.

Victoria struggled violently, breaking free to chase after him.

Archibald's face darkened with fury. "Victoria Hoffis! If you take one more step, consider yourself disinherited!"

By the time Victoria reached the doorway, Liam's car was already speeding away.

She whirled back, stomping her foot. "Why didn't you help me, Grandfather? I'm your only heir, and you let him leave!"

Archibald massaged his temples, caught between his hysterical granddaughter and stubborn wife. The situation was becoming intolerable.

From the upstairs landing, Julian observed the scene with quiet amusement. He had to admire Victoria's performance.

The girl might lack education and talent, but she certainly knew how to manipulate a situation.