Chapter 296

Margaret's face darkened instantly. "Evelyn, don't you think you're overstepping? This is none of your business. Take your little friend and get out of my house immediately."

Evelyn stood frozen.

With perfect posture, Margaret spoke slowly, "I only allowed you to stay at Blackwood Manor because I feared you'd harass Liam at his residence."

"This is property of Wright Manor."

"Now that he's agreed to marry Victoria, you have no reason to remain. I don't care where you go, but you will leave Wright Manor today."

Evelyn forced a bitter smile. "I'll leave. But not right now."

"I've tolerated your presence for ten days. My patience has limits. Leave now or my security will escort you out - straight to the police station," Margaret threatened.

Rosalind turned to Evelyn. "Let's go."

Evelyn's gaze locked with Margaret's. She couldn't bring herself to hate the woman - this was still her grandmother after all.

Between Victoria and Julian's schemes, Evelyn was already at her breaking point. Now Margaret was pouring gasoline on the fire.

If she and Rosalind left, who would protect Archibald and Margaret? Even with Liam's guards watching, Evelyn couldn't shake her worry.

"I'm. Not. Leaving." Evelyn emphasized each word.

Victoria jumped up, face contorted with rage. "Have you lost your mind?"

"Liam was supposed to be my husband. Since I've surrendered him to you, what harm is there in me staying a little longer?" Evelyn countered.

Margaret pulled out a checkbook. She methodically filled out several checks before sliding them across the table.

"This will buy you a luxurious villa and secure your future."

Evelyn didn't touch them. The offer stung - another attempt to buy her off.

She knew Liam wouldn't marry Victoria for money. This marriage was clearly a ploy to cut Julian out of the inheritance, making him think twice before harming Archibald and Margaret.

Evelyn leaned close to Rosalind's ear. "Stay here. Watch over grandfather. I'll be back soon."

Rosalind gave a nearly imperceptible nod.

Without another word, Evelyn turned and left.

"She's gone. Why are you still here?" Margaret demanded.

Rosalind offered a thin smile. "Madam Wright, I'll be retiring to my room now. I'll inform you when I'm ready to depart." She ascended the staircase gracefully.

Victoria pointed angrily. "Grandmother, what's her problem?"

Margaret frowned, lost in thought.

Outside Wright Manor, Evelyn hailed a cab. The night was ink-black, city lights streaking past the taxi windows in neon ribbons.

Eight days had passed since she last saw Liam, when he'd fallen ill at the manor.

Her phone connected instantly when she called, as if he'd been expecting her.

"Cassandra."

"Liam," her voice came out husky with emotion. "Where are you? I need to see you tonight."