Chapter 218

Provoking Liam to the point of violence? That sounded like a suicide mission.

Evelyn's face paled as she shook her head. "I can't do that. One punch from him would kill me."

"Without proof of infidelity, domestic abuse, or drug involvement, divorce isn't an option," Natalie explained. "The court would dismiss your petition immediately. You wouldn't even get a hearing."

Evelyn clenched her fists in frustration. "But you told me I could file for divorce before."

"That was when you mentioned his affair. I assumed you had evidence." Natalie sighed, realizing her mistake. "I apologize for the misunderstanding. You'll need to gather proof first."

"Be careful," Natalie warned.

"Thanks," Evelyn murmured before ending the call.

She slumped against the seat, exhaling heavily as the subway carried her back to Blackwood Manor.

Upon arrival, she froze at the entrance. Sebastian and Isabella had returned, chatting animatedly with Richard and Eleanor in the living room.

Evelyn hesitated. Sebastian and Isabella had always despised her. Would her presence drive them away again?

Cassandra approached silently, leaning against Evelyn's shoulder. "Hello, Evelyn."

"What's troubling you?" Cassandra asked with a knowing smile.

Evelyn bit her lip before whispering, "Why do they hate me so much?"

Cassandra smirked. "Sebastian's a spineless man who mirrors his wife's opinions. As for Isabella..." She lowered her voice. "She was obsessed with Liam. Went through great lengths to marry him, but got rejected."

"Out of spite, she married Sebastian instead. Notice how she barely tolerates him? Of course she resents you."

Evelyn absorbed this shocking revelation as they walked toward the stairs.

Suddenly, Cassandra stiffened. "Liam! When did you return?"

Evelyn looked up to find Liam emerging from a room, his intense gaze locking onto her. Surprise flickered in his eyes.

Cassandra disentangled herself awkwardly. "What a reunion! Sebastian and Isabella are back, and now you. The manor hasn't been this lively in ages."

Under Liam's burning stare, Evelyn blurted, "Alexander isn't home yet."

Liam's expression darkened.

Cassandra coughed. "Why bring up Alexander? I'll leave you two alone." As she retreated, she noted their tense body language - outwardly indifferent, yet their eyes betrayed deeper emotions.

Now alone in the hallway, the contrast was stark - cheerful voices downstairs, but multiple pairs of eyes watching their every move from below.