Chapter 170

Evelyn paused at the doorway, turning back with a playful wink. Her fingers formed a delicate heart shape in the air.

That radiant smile of hers could melt glaciers. Absolutely adorable.

Liam's breath caught in his throat. His pulse quickened as warmth spread through his chest. A faint blush colored his cheeks as he returned her smile sheepishly.

The moment Evelyn disappeared down the hallway, the mansion felt cavernous. Liam's shoulders slumped slightly as the vibrant energy she brought dissipated.

To combat the sudden emptiness, he paced the marble floors before retreating to his study. Paperwork would be the perfect distraction from her absence.

At the Blackwood estate gates, Evelyn spotted Dorothy - face bruised, eyes swollen. Without hesitation, she hailed a cab and directed it to the nearest hospital.

In the sterile examination room, Evelyn insisted on comprehensive tests. Dorothy only agreed when assured she wouldn't bear the costs.

A minor hiccup occurred during the bloodwork. One vial mysteriously disappeared, requiring a second draw for complete analysis.

The final report showed only superficial injuries. No internal damage or underlying conditions.

At the hotel restaurant, Dorothy piled her plate high with delicacies, eating with gusto. Evelyn merely picked at her salad.

She studied the woman across the table. Pity warred with frustration in her chest.

Dorothy's life read like a tragedy - chronic gambling addiction, years shackled to an abusive alcoholic. Two children raised without guidance or discipline.

Her son Dominic was constantly evading loan sharks. Her daughter Rosalind had dropped out of school for questionable work.

Evelyn wondered if Dorothy's biological daughter still lived.

Upon learning of Evelyn's wealthy marriage, Dorothy saw an escape route. Visions of luxury danced in her head.

"Stay at the hotel for a week. It's already paid for," Evelyn offered.

Dorothy set down her fork. "Darling, does your husband have any vacant properties? I could move in immediately."

Her voice trembled. "With a modest allowance, I'll divorce that wretched man. I've suffered enough."

Tears tracked through her makeup. "Not one happy day since our wedding. Just beatings and humiliation."

Evelyn sighed. "Why stay after the first attack?"

"And go where? How would I survive? What about you children?" Dorothy countered.

"Street sweeping. Recycling. Waitressing. Factory work. Countless options if you truly wanted independence."

Evelyn's gaze sharpened. "But you'd rather live off his dividends than earn your own keep."

Dorothy's face fell. She pushed food around her plate, appetite gone.

"Mother," Evelyn leaned forward. "Do I seem like the same girl who left home ten years ago?"