Chapter 147

Tears shimmered in Evelyn's eyes, an unexpected warmth spreading through her chest.

Even if Liam's words might be lies, they still made her heart flutter uncontrollably.

Yet the undeniable truth remained - he had moved out of their shared bedroom.

This man truly mastered the art of emotional manipulation, swinging between tenderness and indifference.

Evelyn slowly withdrew her hand, shaking her head. "I'm staying right here."

Liam's piercing gaze never left Evelyn as he gestured toward Beatrice's scowling face. "Living with a viper like her is exhausting. Either you match her venom, or she'll crush you beneath her heel."

Beatrice shot up, hands planted on her hips. "You insolent boy! How dare you speak to me like that?"

Liam remained fixated on Evelyn, completely ignoring Beatrice and everyone else present.

A slow, confident smile curved Evelyn's lips as she met Liam's concerned eyes. "Don't worry. I can be twice as vicious as her when needed."

Liam's brow furrowed, momentarily baffled by her unexpected response.

Just then, Winston rushed in breathlessly. "Sir, the courtyard is swarming with reporters and lawyers-"

Before he could finish, Isabella jumped up eagerly. "Show them in immediately!"

Beatrice added excitedly, "Escort them to the east wing reception hall. We'll join them once Ms. Grayson arrives."

Winston hurried out to comply.

Liam's eyes narrowed dangerously as he turned to Beatrice. "Is this your idea of coercion?" His voice dropped to a lethal whisper.

Beatrice paled, her body stiffening with fear. She turned to Richard with trembling lips. "Richard, control your son! He's defending this wretched woman against his own aunt! She's clearly bewitched him!"

Richard snorted dismissively. "Look at your own actions first. Evelyn remains Liam's wife. Inviting outsiders to humiliate her? As family, you've crossed every line!"

Isabella interjected, "Beatrice only has the family's best interests at heart."

Sebastian quickly added, "Exactly, Father. Aunt Beatrice is helping Liam by removing this trash before she destroys our family."

Sebastian and Isabella had always despised Evelyn. Now they seized the chance to kick her when she was down.

Maxwell and Gregory remained neutral with their wives, wisely avoiding taking sides in this explosive situation.

Victoria watched the unfolding drama with barely concealed delight.

Winston reappeared, announcing, "The guests have been seated in the east wing. Ms. Grayson has arrived with her entourage."

Despite being family patriarch, Richard found himself powerless, trapped between his daughter-in-law and sister.

Beatrice marched up to Evelyn triumphantly. "There's no escape now. You'll apologize to Ms. Grayson and beg for mercy. Otherwise, prepare for jail!"

"If you confess to impersonating her and selling counterfeit paintings," Beatrice continued, "return the five million dollars, and issue a public apology - perhaps she'll show leniency."

Cassandra suddenly spoke up angrily. "Let's face them together, Evelyn. You have nothing to fear."

The thought of returning the money clearly pained Cassandra as she pulled Evelyn forward.

Evelyn had no intention of fleeing. This confrontation might finally reveal her true identity.

Liam stepped forward, gripping Evelyn's arm firmly. "You don't have to go. Stay here with me."

To his surprise, Evelyn gave him a determined smile and gently freed herself. With resolute steps, she followed Cassandra.

Fearing she'd be bullied, Liam immediately pursued them, his protective instincts in overdrive.