Chapter 144

Liam's face remained eerily composed.

Evelyn paid no attention to Beatrice's accusations. Her focus had always been solely on Liam.

"Beatrice," Evelyn said coolly, "I never claimed to be Isabella Grayson, nor have I exploited her reputation for personal benefit. What legal grounds does she have to sue me?"

A mocking smile curled Beatrice's lips. "Oh, you're unaware? Cassandra spent a fortune restoring that worthless painting of yours. She even sold it for five million dollars."

Evelyn's fists clenched as anger constricted her chest. This outcome was completely unexpected.

She had deliberately destroyed that painting, yet Cassandra somehow found an expert to restore it - and sold it at an exorbitant price.

Evelyn had been monitoring this mysterious Isabella Grayson who appeared out of nowhere. Initially, she assumed the artist would fade into obscurity.

But Isabella had capitalized on her sudden fame - endollarsing products, attending high-profile events, everything except continuing her painting livestreams or charity work.

While Evelyn couldn't confirm the woman's true identity, she knew one thing for certain - this imposter was a fraud.

"Then I'll await Ms. Grayson's legal notice," Evelyn replied calmly.

Turning to Eleanor, she added, "Excuse me, I'll retire to my room now."

As she turned away, Evelyn's gaze briefly brushed against Liam's chiseled profile. His expression remained indifferent - no glance, no acknowledgment.

A crushing weight settled in Evelyn's chest. She couldn't understand why Liam's attitude toward her had shifted so dramatically. His behavior oscillated unpredictably between warmth and icy detachment.

Their relationship had become increasingly strained, yet Evelyn couldn't pinpoint the cause. Not a single word had passed between them this entire encounter.

Upon reaching her bedroom, Evelyn froze at the sight before her. Two maids were methodically packing Liam's belongings, the door left slightly ajar.

An invisible hand seemed to squeeze her lungs. The pain wasn't physical, but a deep, aching emptiness that left her limbs numb with shock.

They'd been married over four months. Despite their rocky start, they'd never slept separately. Why now?

"Madam," one maid greeted politely, "We're transferring Mr. Blackwood's belongings to the adjacent guest suite."

Evelyn forced a tight smile. "Carry on." She turned and exited swiftly.

Leaning against the hallway wall, Evelyn tilted her head back, blinking away hot tears. Each breath came labored, as if the air itself had turned to lead.

Then - footsteps. That familiar, measured cadence that resonated deep in her bones.

Evelyn hastily wiped her eyes, composing herself just as Liam reached the landing.

He approached with an inscrutable gaze. Evelyn's pulse quickened as his imposing frame loomed before her.

Meeting those enigmatic dark eyes, she managed a fragile smile. "Liam, why are you doing this?"

His expression remained glacial. "I'm simply granting your wish."

The words struck like a physical blow. Tears welled despite Evelyn's efforts to contain them.

Her wish? Did this man truly understand nothing of her heart?

He wanted distance between them, yet had the audacity to frame it as her desire.

Lowering her head to hide her anguish, Evelyn whispered hoarsely, "Thank you."