Chapter 340

Evelyn remained composed, her eyes never leaving the pages of her novel. "She won't succeed in this marriage."

Rosalind leaned closer, her voice urgent. "She's not marrying Mr. Blackwood. Realizing she can't win his affection, she's using her wealth to manipulate connections in Solterra to obtain your identification documents. She plans to marry under your identity."

Evelyn's book slipped from her fingers as she stared at Rosalind in disbelief.

Rosalind's expression darkened as she sat beside Evelyn. "Your grandmother is already preparing the wedding arrangements. Do you know who the groom is?"

"I don't care who he is. How could Grandfather allow this?" Evelyn's voice trembled with suppressed anger.

Rosalind sighed heavily. "Your grandfather objected, of course. But he couldn't sway Victoria's determination, nor your grandmother's unreasonable support."

Evelyn's nails dug into her palms. "Victoria will stop at nothing to claim the Wright family fortune."

"What should we do?" Rosalind grasped her hand tightly. "Evelyn, if she marries into Aldenria's elite using your identity, the consequences will be disastrous."

"An elite?" Evelyn's eyes narrowed dangerously.

Rosalind nodded. "The groom's father is the city mayor."

A cold wave of realization washed over Evelyn as she understood the severity of the situation.

If this marriage proceeded, she'd face another round of political scrutiny upon returning to Solterra.

Then there would be the complications of dealing with a fraudulent marriage in Aldenria.

Endless problems would follow like shadows.

"But the troubles aren't what worry me most," Evelyn murmured thoughtfully. "What truly terrifies me is Victoria gaining inheritance rights in Aldenria."

"Once she controls my grandparents' will, she might harm them without hesitation."

Rosalind's anxiety spiked. "Then why are we waiting? Tomorrow they're holding the engagement banquet at the Royal Heights Hotel."

"And the day after, they plan to officially register the marriage. The wedding ceremony will likely happen within a month."

Evelyn hesitated. "But what about my parents if I reveal my true identity?"

Rosalind reasoned firmly, "Evelyn, your parents may already be gone. Even without finding their bodies, you can't keep enduring this humiliation. Letting Victoria exploit your identity endangers your grandparents!"

Evelyn's face darkened as conflicting emotions warred within her.

"Should I consult Liam about this?" she proposed.

Rosalind exhaled in frustration. "Evelyn, can't you see? Mr. Blackwood has wanted Victoria and Julian gone for years. He's only tolerated them because of you."

Determination flashed in Evelyn's eyes. "Very well. Tomorrow at the Royal Heights Hotel, we'll stage a spectacular scene and expose Victoria's true nature!"

Rosalind's face lit up with excitement. "Evelyn, what's your plan?"

"Since Vincent and Dominic are still imprisoned, we'll need to bring her biological mother Dorothy, along with Rosalind Fairchild."

"Understood," Rosalind agreed, reaching for her phone. After a moment's thought, she asked, "Should we prepare a DNA report?"

Evelyn shook her head confidently. "Unnecessary. Leave the rest to me. There won't be any mistakes."

"Very well," Rosalind replied, trusting Evelyn completely. When Evelyn was certain about something, it always worked out perfectly.

The next day, headlines buzzed with news of the engagement between Aldenria's most prominent family's granddaughter and the mayor's son.

The crème de la crème of Aldenria's business and political circles gathered for the lavish engagement banquet.

Having anticipated Victoria's schemes, Liam remained calm when receiving the invitation.

He instructed Ryan to position an armed elite squad outside the venue.

If Cassandra chose not to intervene, he would silently follow her lead.

But if she decided to disrupt the banquet, he would provide full support.

At the Royal Heights Hotel, the grand ballroom glittered with exquisite floral arrangements and crystal chandeliers, creating a magical atmosphere.

The expansive space featured a raised platform for the couple, surrounded by gourmet delicacies and fine wines. The constant clinking of glasses added to the celebratory mood.

Evelyn hadn't received a formal invitation. Instead, Archibald discreetly provided her access.

She arrived in an elegant white gown, her long hair cascading like a waterfall. Her understated beauty resembled a pristine magnolia—fragrant yet unpretentious.

Rosalind wore a practical pantsuit, ready to protect Evelyn if needed.

The two women stood in a corner, holding wine glasses, listening to the string quartet's melodies.

They observed the glittering crowd, patiently waiting for Victoria and her fiancé's grand entrance.