Chapter 152

The assistant lunged for the exit, only to be blocked by Aldenrian military personnel.

"Defamation charges could be filed against you," the lawyer warned sharply.

The appraiser scoffed. "Worry about yourself. That woman committed fraud."

Panicked, the imposter shoved through the crowd in a desperate escape attempt. Spectators watched as she barely made it three steps before being seized by waiting soldiers.

"Unhand me! I'll sue you all!" Evelyn Carter thrashed violently against their grip.

"Save your breath. We'll deliver you to the authorities personally," Ryan Sullivan countered coldly.

Within minutes, both the fraudster and her accomplice were hauled into an armored vehicle, disappearing toward the police station.

The gallery buzzed with conflicting reactions.

Beatrice Thornton's face darkened with shock. Sebastian Blackwood and Isabella Sinclair exchanged uneasy glances before reluctantly acknowledging Evelyn as Isabella Grayson.

Meanwhile, the art world erupted. The legendary Isabella Grayson's unexpected return after years of absence sent waves through the community. Her latest masterpiece, "Verdant Awakening," became the most sought-after piece overnight.

To everyone's astonishment, Evelyn refused monetary bids. "Donate to Aldenria's orphanages instead," she proposed. "The most generous contribution wins the piece."

Cassandra Blake grabbed her arm urgently. "Have you lost your mind?" she hissed. "That painting you sold me appraised at six million! This authenticated piece could fetch fifteen million easily!"

Evelyn's serene smile never wavered. "Consider donating your restoration profits too, Cassandra."

"That's my money!" Cassandra spat.

"I'm being polite because we're family," Evelyn said softly, though her steel-gray eyes flashed dangerously. "Shall we involve lawyers?"

Cassandra recoiled. Beneath Evelyn's gentle demeanor burned an unshakable resolve that promised ruthless consequences.

Swallowing her greed, Cassandra yielded. "Fine. I'll make the donation." She recognized the strategic value of aligning with Evelyn's public goodwill.

The bidding war escalated wildly. "Ms. Carter!" a reporter shouted. "My livestream shows a seven million bid!"

Numbers skyrocketed—eight million, ten million, then twelve. Sebastian stood frozen while Isabella clutched her pearls in shock. The Morrisons and Beatrice gaped at the spectacle.

Evelyn addressed the highest bidder graciously. "Your generosity touches me. Present the donation receipt, and the painting is yours."

The bidder fumbled for their phone. "I'll have finance wire it immediately!"

Then a commanding voice cut through the chaos. "One hundred million."

Gasps filled the room as all heads turned. Liam Blackwood stood there, his piercing gaze locked on Evelyn.

Their eyes met. Evelyn's breath caught. Confusion and disbelief flooded her senses as her pulse quickened inexplicably.