Chapter 37

Evelyn didn't remain at Blackwood Manor or Shadowmire Island in the following days. She withdrew several thousand dollars from the card Liam had provided, using it to rent a modest apartment and purchase basic necessities.

Without formal education or clear knowledge of her skills, Evelyn settled on buying flowers wholesale at the Floral District. She set up a small cart at a busy plaza to sell them.

This humble venture provided steady income. Within two weeks, she'd saved enough to repay her debt.

Life felt simple yet fulfilling. Meanwhile, she devoted evenings to crafting Margaret's birthday present.

Knowing Margaret adored classical art, Evelyn spent fifteen days hand-embroidering a replica of "Starry Night."

At 8:00 am on Margaret's birthday, Evelyn woke to her doorbell chiming. She rubbed sleep from her eyes, finger-combed her hair, and answered the door.

Ryan stood in the hallway, cradling an enormous gift box. "Good morning, Mrs. Blackwood," he greeted formally.

Evelyn offered a small smile. "Good morning, Mr. Sullivan."

"Mr. Blackwood instructed me to deliver this."

Accepting the package, Evelyn's brows lifted. "What is it?"

"A gown and accessories. I'll return at 5:00 pm sharp to escort you."

Warmth flooded Evelyn's chest as she held the heavy box. "Please thank Liam for me."

"Certainly, ma'am." Ryan departed with a polite nod.

Evelyn placed the gift on her bed, untied the satin ribbon, and lifted the lid. Inside lay an exquisite white gown with flowing chiffon layers - ethereal as a moon goddess's raiment. Beside it shimmered a jewelry set worthy of royalty.

Never had Evelyn owned anything so luxurious. The thoughtfulness behind the gesture touched her deeply, momentarily softening her lingering resentment.

She spread the dress across her bed, fingers tracing delicate beadwork. Joy sparkled in her eyes like sunlight on morning dew.

Tonight's banquet mattered. She'd comport herself flawlessly, ensuring no embarrassment for Margaret or Liam.

The doorbell rang again.

Assuming Ryan had forgotten something, Evelyn hurried back. Her smile vanished upon seeing her visitor.

"How did you find me?" she asked coldly.

Victoria flashed a saccharine smile and brushed past without invitation. "If Liam knows your address, so do I. He had me select your ensemble." Her gaze swept the apartment. "Cozy."

Evelyn's heart sank. Then she remembered Victoria's penchant for lies designed to divide. She wouldn't be manipulated.

"You weren't invited. Leave."

Victoria ignored the demand, striding to admire the dress. "Evelyn, I came to advise you. Stay invisible tonight. Better yet, don't come. Spare Liam the humiliation of anyone discovering he married beneath him."

The words crushed Evelyn's remaining excitement. She stood frozen, fists clenched, skin paling to match the gown's ivory fabric. No retort came.