Chapter 29

Evelyn forced a tight smile. "He's not," she said firmly, coming to Liam's defense.

"Then who is that woman?" Margaret demanded.

Evelyn hesitated. The elderly woman's health was fragile. Bad news could worsen her condition.

Using Liam's own words, she replied, "She's just a confused girl who doesn't understand what she's saying."

Liam's eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't expected Evelyn to shield him after everything that had happened.

Unlike Victoria, Evelyn hadn't lashed out or sought revenge.

Margaret seemed appeased by Evelyn's explanation and didn't press further.

After dinner, the trio retired to the garden gazebo to enjoy the evening.

A light mist hung in the air as crickets chirped their nightly symphony. The soothing aroma of jasmine tea blended with the peaceful atmosphere.

Margaret looked content, surrounded by her grandson and his wife.

A servant approached discreetly. "Madam, there's a Ms. Wright requesting to see you and General Blackwood."

Evelyn's grip tightened around her teacup as she took a nervous sip.

"Who is this Ms. Wright?" Margaret inquired.

The servant replied, "She claims to have grown up with General Blackwood and says she's his true love. She mentioned you once considered her your future granddaughter-in-law."

Liam's expression darkened instantly. "I'll handle this, Grandmother."

Margaret's face mirrored his stormy look. "Stay seated," she commanded coldly. "Let's hear what she has to say."

Liam's fists clenched but he remained in his chair.

Evelyn maintained her composure, though turmoil churned within her. "Grandmother, perhaps I should excuse myself—"

"You'll stay right here," Margaret interrupted sharply. "That's an order."

With no other choice, Evelyn remained seated as Victoria was led to the gazebo.

Victoria floated toward them in a white chiffon dress that made her look ethereal. Diamond jewelry sparkled at her throat and wrists.

"Good evening, Grandmother, Liam," she greeted sweetly, pointedly ignoring Evelyn.

Liam studied her with a mixture of anger and resignation before slumping back in his chair.

"Have a seat, Ms. Wright," Margaret said with forced politeness.

Victoria smiled triumphantly and took the chair beside Liam.

Margaret frowned at the young woman. "Ms. Wright, your earlier words were highly inappropriate. Did you not realize my grandson's wife was present?"

Evelyn lowered her gaze, her cheeks burning with humiliation.

Victoria shot Evelyn a dismissive glance before turning her charm on Margaret. "Grandmother, don't you remember me? I'm Victoria. We were neighbors for fourteen years. Liam and I grew up together. Your entire family adored me." She leaned forward conspiratorially. "You promised I could marry Liam when we grew up."

Margaret looked startled, her eyes darting between Evelyn and Victoria. "That's impossible," she said uncertainly.

Victoria blinked innocently. "I'm the granddaughter-in-law you cherished, Grandmother. Evelyn merely resembles how I looked as a child." She touched her slender waist. "I was much plumper then, remember? The weight loss changed me. Have you truly forgotten your dear Victoria?"