Chapter 4

Liam's piercing gaze held an icy calm. "Explain yourself."

Evelyn met his stare without flinching. "I want a divorce."

Three years of loving this man. Three years believing in pure love. Now their marriage stood tainted, and she refused to continue this charade.

Liam's expression darkened like storm clouds gathering.

Behind him, Ryan spoke up with obvious disdain. "Evelyn Carter. Age 25. Native of Aldenria's capital. Daughter of an abusive alcoholic father. Mother and brother both compulsive gamblers drowning in debt."

Evelyn's eyes widened in shock at Ryan's words.

Unperturbed, Ryan continued his brutal recitation. "Dropped out at fourteen after being catfished by online predators. Later worked as a hostess in nightclubs."

"At twenty, married an octogenarian who died within two years - leaving you penniless."

The merciless cataloging continued. "Formal education ends at elementary level. Arrested twice for prostitution."

"Fifteen cosmetic surgeries. Three STD treatments. Thirty-two documented relationships - including five simultaneous partners - plus countless anonymous encounters."

"Returned to Aldenria three years ago. Deliberately befriended Mrs. Blackwood. Schemed your way into this family to become General Blackwood's wife."

Cold sweat trickled down Evelyn's spine as each sordid detail struck like a whip.

She couldn't believe what she was hearing.

Ryan delivered the final blow with a sneer. "Marrying General Blackwood was winning the lottery for trash like you. How dare you mention divorce?"

Evelyn felt stripped bare, exposed in her shame. Her nails dug crescent moons into her palms.

Liam remained impassive. This marriage had always been just a concession to his grandmother. Meaningless to him.

With a bitter smile, Evelyn explained, "Mr. Blackwood, I lost all memories three years ago. I've heard fragments about my past, but remember nothing."

She continued softly, "I don't know why I made those choices, and I'm sorry you were forced to marry someone so... damaged because of your grandmother."

"I'm unworthy of being your wife. Let's end this."

Liam closed the distance between them. His towering presence made the air feel thick. Nervous, Evelyn lifted her gaze to meet his.

His lips curled in derision. "I'll decide when this marriage ends."

What did that make her?

His grandmother's pet project?

Tears of frustration pricked Evelyn's eyes. "I don't know who I was before, but the woman I am now won't accept a loveless marriage or trade dignity for wealth."

Liam scoffed. "Dignity? You?"

His contempt cut deep. Did she not even deserve basic self-respect? How low did he think of her?

She fired back, "Mr. Blackwood, if you refuse divorce, then act like a proper husband. No other women. No secrets. A real marriage."

"Or I'll take this matter to your grandmother myself. I promise to make it painless for you."

Liam's face hardened instantly. He loomed over her, eyes blazing.

Evelyn pressed back against the headboard, pulse racing.

His intoxicating scent enveloped her, sending heat flooding her cheeks. Her breath came in shallow gasps.

"W-what are you doing?" she stammered.