《Unmasking the Heiress》


 Bitten Once Shy Forever 1

    "Don''t bother returning if you can''t make Waltere home tonight, Evangeline!" It was New Year''s Eve.


    Every home was aglow, families embracing the joy of togetherness. Evangeline Rearden, however, was excluded from the glee. She raced her heavy motorcycle down Jetty Road, cutting through the biting cold wind on a mission to expose Walter''s infidelity aboard a cruise ship.


    The whole city buzzed with the news that her stay-away husband, Walter Gordon, has splurged on a cruise for his mistress,plete with a fireworks disy.


    Still ringing in her ears was the harsh ultimatum her mother-inw, Aria Jones, delivered at the Gordon family''s New Year''s Eve feast.


    "Evangeline, Walter is so averse to seeing you that he hasn''te home for the holidays in years! You''re just warming the bench. If you can''t give us a Gordon heir, call it quits early. Step aside and let a more fertile woman take your ce as Mrs. Walter Gordon." Three years into their marriage, all Evangeline could think of was having Walter''s baby.


    The Gordons were on her case, and so was Cole Foster, her maternal grandfather. She had exhausted every trick in the book to cement her status as Mrs. Walter Gordon.


    Walter was a different man outside-voracious and wild. At home, however, he had been distant and disinterested.


    Forget intimacy. She could have paraded naked in front of him and not even earned a blink.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    All the heartache had boiled down to one bitter truth: Walter did not love her. She had never been the one he wanted to marry.


    The cruise ship Walter rented had been aze with lights as the clock struck midnight on New Year''s Eve, the air alive with celebration.


    Evangeline stepped onto the cruise and swung open the door to the buzzing private room.


    Walter, the seventh heir to Avalon City''s elite Gordon family, had carved out his empire with Strata King Group at just 27 years old. In a mere three years, he shot to the top of the game, poised to take over the family''s legacy. There he was, oozingid-back charm in his sleek ck suit, coaching a woman in a tiny ck skirt on her pool shot.


    Just then, a voice cut through the buzz, "Mr. Walter Gordon, it''ste. Aren''t you heading home?"


    "Not tonight," he shot back, and with a smooth move, he swept the pool table clean.


    The women in the room could not peel their eyes away, green with envy at thedy by his side.


    "Wow! That''s impressive! You still have the magic touch, even after all these years!" someone eximed.


    "So, Julia, don''t you think Walter''s even more of a catch than he was three years ago? If you don''t snag him this time, you''ll have some exining to do, huh?"


    At those words, the demure woman next to Walter turned a deep shade of red, gazing up at him with eyes full of worship and longing.


    At that moment, Evangeline''s gazended on the woman''s face. It hit her like a ton of bricks.


    She had expected just another fling, someone she could brush off without a second thought. However, that was not just anyone it was Julia Rearden. Walter''s ex-lover, the one he had been forced to leave, and her own half-sister. Evangeline felt like her heart was stabbed.


    She smoothed out her windblown hair and strutted across the threshold in her high heels, instantly dissolving the charged silence.


    "She thinks she can just get married? She''ll need my say-so for that!


    "I was trying to figure out who was brazen enough to flirt with my husband tonight... Oh, it''s the homing of the other woman''s kid!


    "No shocker that Walter''s been pulling out all the stops with cruises and fireworks to woo you, strutting around like a show-off, not even bothering toe home for New Year''s. He''s not even scared of his grandfather giving him a piece of his mind!" Three years had passed, but Julia''s face still wore that same look of feigned innocence, her pretty features then tinged with an unhealthy paleness.


    She nched even more at the sight of Evangeline, tripping over her words in a rush to exin.


    "Evangeline... It''s not like that! Don''t get it twisted... I just got back into town yesterday, and my friends wanted to throw me a little wee bash. It was my idea to shoot some pool, and, uh... Walter was just showing me the ropes.!" Evangeline''sugh was detached, her amusement clear.


    She knew what was happening. She was no fool. Julia was trying to say that Walter''s buddies were her buddies too, that she was part of the in-crowd that had grown up with them.


    They were all on Julia''s side, in a club Evangeline would never fit into.


    However, back when Evangeline and Walter were promised to each other as kids, Julia was nothing more than a secret nobody was supposed to talk about.


    There was an order to those things.


    Even if Evangeline was over him, it was not Julia''s ce to step in.


    "Is that so?" Evangeline''sshes fluttered, her smile soft but her eyes challenging. "If you''re so keen on ying pool, why didn''t youe to me? You might not realize, but I''ve got the kind of pool game that couldnd me on the national team." "Are you for real..." Julia''s skepticism was written on her face. She was convinced Evangeline was just boasting.


    A sneer barely concealed itself as Julia continued, "This game''s tough to learn, and I''ve barely sunk a few balls myself. You lived out in the sticks before you got hitched, and afterward, you were practically a shut-in, never venturing out. How could you be so good at this? Walter, however, he''s got some serious games."


    Evangeline let out a chillingugh andid it bare, "You''re not focused on the game because you''re too busy trying to snag your brother-inw. No wonder you can''t learn!" Her words cut deep, leaving no room for dignity for Julia.


    The girls who had been green with envy over Julia were speechless in shock.


    "Who is she? How can she speak to Julia like that, and Julia seems so scared of her!"


    "You''re out of the loop? She''s Julia''s half-sister, the same dad but a different mom, the secret wife on Mr. Walter Gordon''s marriage certificate. She''s the one who yed dirty to break up Mr. Walter Gordon and Julia before they married into the Gordon family! Before she got into the Gordon family, she was just a vige girl, raised in the boonies, growing up with her grandpa."


    "She''s got some nerve, bragging about making the national team in the pool! A bumpkin who''s probably never even held a cue stick. How dare she pick on Julia in front of everyone? Mr. Walter Gordon is going to kick her to the curb, right?"


    The crowd buzzed with gossip.


    Julia''s eyes brimmed with tears, and she looked at Evangeline with reddened eyes. "Evangeline, can''t you ease up on the hostility? I mean, Walt and I grew up together. Even if he''s married, he''s still allowed to have friends, isn''t he?" She turned to Walter with eyes that silently pleaded, ''Please talk some sense into her, Walt. If my return is upsetting you both, I''d rather stay away forever. Please, don''t fight over me!''


    Walter nonchntly flicked his lighter and took a drag on his cigarette before sinking into the plush leather sofa.


    At her words, he cracked a mocking smile and barely opened his eyes to say, "Why bother exining?"


    He knocked the ash off his cigarette and nced at Evangeline.


    Their eyes locked in a silent standoff.


    "Do you really think you belong here?" His voice was icy, cutting through the air like the chill of a winter''s night.


    Julia pulled at his sleeve, pleading, "Don''t be so mean to her!"


    However, Walter ignored Julia, his gaze fixed on Evangeline.


    "Are you going to walk out on your own, or do I need to have you thrown off this ship?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 2

    Evangeline held her gaze before breaking into a sly smile. Her eyes sparkled mischievously as she sauntered toward Walter, heels clicking on the floor. She pulled out a disinfectant wipe and, with a show of casual authority, began to clean the spot on his silk shirt that Julia had touched.


    "You think I want to be in this dump? I''m only here because Grandpa and Mom wouldn''t stop nagging."


    She tossed the wipe away and straightened his cor with feigned nonchnce. "Are you done ying around? Ready to go home?"


    "Go home for what? To y house and make babies?" Walter''s dark eyes shimmered with a mysterious allure as he towered over her. "Do you really think you''re fit to bear my children?"


    Augh escaped Evangeline, a mix of disbelief and pain. Her heart ached like never before.


    She had, once upon a time, truly wanted to be a mother.


    Cole was getting on in years, andte-stage lung cancer was a clear sign his days were numbered. His dying wish was to see her and Walter have a baby.


    Little did anyone know, she had been harboring a secret crush on him for years.


    As she recalled his past indifference and the dazzling fireworks he hadunched for Julia just that New Year''s Eve, a faint smile yed on Evangeline''s lips.


    "If you''re so against the idea of being with me, you could just handle things yourself and donate the oue for in vitro fertilization. Your grandfather is on my back about this, and if you can''t get me pregnant in three months, you might kiss your future as the Gordon family heir goodbye!


    "Having a kid benefits us both, I swear. Once it''s done, you''re free to live it up. I won''t ask questions..."


    Atst, Walter snapped. He firmly grabbed her chin and shoved her onto the billiard table.


    His jaw was as sharp as a de, his gaze deep enough to send shivers down her spine.


    He smirked icily. "What''s this? Am I just your baby-making machine to lock down your status? Evangeline, have you no decency left?"


    Decency?


    She had thrown that out the window long ago, had she not? Ever since she had ckmailed him into marriage with an old engagement promise, decency was off the table.


    Biting back the pain, her challenge was unmistakable. "So, will you or won''t you? This is yourst chance to answer."


    Walter''s gaze was intense, his eyes a storm of unspoken feelings. He was not one to be intimidated or threatened.


    Each word was deliberate, his lips a straight line that struck a chord in her heart. "Forget about having my child, Evangeline. It''s not happening."


    "Alright, then! That''s settled," she said, herugh tinged with defiance.


    She swept her eyes leisurely over the crowd, a picture of ease and contentment.


    Evangeline reached into her pearl-studded clutch and pulled out a document she had been hiding for far too long.


    "Seeing as you can''t give me a child, what''s the point in keeping you around? And with all your pals here, it''s as good a time as any for a divorce, Walter. Once I''m free, I can find someone else to start a family with! "Here''s the divorce papers I drew up. Give them a once-over, and if they''re all good, just sign on the dotted line. We''ll sort out the rest with the County Clerk''s Office after the holiday break."


    With that, she tossed the papers onto the pool table, where theynded with a p that echoed through the stunned silence.


    The papers had been burning a hole in her purse for ages, but she never found the guts to pull them out until then.


    She was done holding back. She would not let Walter shame her in front of Julia or anyone else ever again.


    The room went silent as her words hung in the air. Everyone was shocked, the tension so thick that they could choke on it.


    Walter looked like he had been pped with ice, his face a mask of fury. He looked like he might just tear Evangeline apart right there.


    No one would have guessed that Walter, the man who was always on a pedestal, could be publicly dumped.


    Julia, barely able to keep her excitement in check, watched Walter, waiting for his reaction. He had to say yes, right?


    However, Walter was not pleased. He let out a detached, hollowugh that did not reach his eyes. She had never seen him look at anyone the way he looked at Evangeline then, his gaze dark and fathomless.


    Julia, ever the instigator, piped up, "Evangeline, let''s talk this out. You finally married Walt, and you want a divorce just like that? If you''re upset because he was teaching me pool, I''ll stop. Or better yet, you teach me!


    "Don''t let me be the reason your marriage falls apart. I''d never forgive myself!" she said, offering the pool cue to Evangeline with feigned kindness.


    Evangeline did not take the bait. Instead, she gave Julia a once-over, her sneer cutting through the air. "Don''t kid yourself."


    Did Julia actually want to learn to y? No, she just figured Evangeline, the country girl, would not know how and wanted to watch her make a fool of herself in front of everyone.


    "A man who can''t even have kids, and you''re treating him like he''s some kind of prize," she scoffed.


    "Walt is not like that!" Julia snapped, unable to hold back.


    Walter was the one she could not stop thinking about. He was astounding. The mere thought of him sent her into a daydream.


    Evangeline''s gaze was piercing as she taunted, "So, have you tested his capability yourself?"


    Julia''s fists tightened, her cheeks burning. "I..."


    However, before Julia could fully respond, Evangeline crossed her arms andughed icily. "Don''t think for a second you''ve got a shot with him just because we''re through. Even if I don''t want to be Mrs. Walter Gordon anymore, you''ll never be wee in the Gordon family."


    That hit a nerve. Julia nearly lost it.


    Right then, nobody could see the look in Walter''s eyes, but there was an unmistakable chill in the air.


    Walter let out a mockingugh. "All these usations, just to get a divorce?"


    He lounged on the plush leather sofa, the restless sea churning behind him.


    His fingers, pale as the moon, flipped through the divorce papers Evangeline had so carefully prepared.


    After a moment, he looked up, a sly smile ying on his lips. He was like a cornered animal, ready to strike, as he fixed his gaze on Evangeline.


    "Julia, hand her the club. Let''s see her y a round. If she can beat me, I''ll sign off on this today."


    Evangeline remained silent. She hesitated before reaching for the pool cue.


    Walter eyed her with a challenge in his gaze. "Weren''t you the one bragging about your killer pool game? What''s the matter, scared now? Or is this whole divorce talk just your way of ying hard to get?" Evangeline cracked a frosty smile. She remained silent, the crystal chandelier casting a glow on her stunning features.


    She looked down and slowly unbuttoned her wine-red cashmere coat, sliding it off her shoulders and tossing it onto the couch.


    The coat hit the sofa, and the men around were left speechless.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Beneath her coat was a sultry ckce nightgown, the soft silk hugging her smooth, porcin skin, highlighting curves that captivated and teased the onlookers'' senses.


    Who would have guessed that Walter''s neglected wife was such a knockout? Had not people said the Rearden family was too backwoods to be seen in public, a sight that would turn their stomachs? Evangeline could outshine anyone in the whole city!


    What was Walter Gordon thinking?


    Evangeline, however, seemed blissfully unaware of the spell she cast.


    She picked up the cue stick, her eyes steady on Walter. "You were the one who said it. I win a game, and we''re done. Whoever backs out is a total loser."


    Before Walter''s face could turn a shade of envy, she leaned over the pool table and broke with authority.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 3

    Evangeline''s alluring stance sent pulses racing.


    Pop, pop, pop! Balls dropped into pockets with stunning precision.


    Her skill was breathtaking. She was every bit Walter''s equal, if not better.


    A hidden gem, indeed.


    Not just the onlookers, but even Walter''s expression changed too. The sound of someone gulping was unmistakable in the tense silence.


    Then there was the sheer fabric clinging to her body, barely there, which made Walter''s face darken with anger.


    His eyes, dark and predatory, did not miss a thing.


    Who would have thought? His wife, the one who hardly left their home, had some serious secrets up her sleeve. Her skill at the pool table was not only a shock to the onlookers but to him as well-he had had no idea.


    Walter''s right-hand man, Hector, could tell things were about to go south and quickly ushered everyone out. However, Julia, blind to the brewing storm, stubbornly stayed put.


    She had hoped to see Evangeline humiliated, but the tables had turned. It was Julia who ended up embarrassed.


    When on earth had Evangeline learned to y pool like that?!


    She had waited three long years for that moment. She would not rest until she saw Walter''s signature on those divorce papers.


    Instead, she found herself being hauled out by John Tucker, who did not hesitate to drag her away.


    Before Julia was pulled out, Evangeline straightened herself and red at her. "Julia, remember the cruise Walter booked for you tonight, the fireworks? That''s alling out of the marital assets we''re splitting," she remarked. "Better transfer the money soon, or my divorcewyer will be in touch!"


    Julia was livid, her face turning a shade of green with rage. However, before she could get into it with Evangeline, John had her out the door.


    The door mmed shut, leaving Evangeline and Walter alone in the room.


    Evangeline, having just cleared the pool table in a smooth run, set down her cue stick and was about to speak. All of a sudden, she was yanked forward.


    Her hands were pinned above her head, her body pressed against the pool table. Walter''s breath, dangerously close to losing control, enveloped her.


    Walter stood in his sleek ck suit, the trousers whispering against her thighs as he moved. His ck silk shirt was casually unbuttoned at the top, revealing a corbone that exuded a nonchnt yet forbidden allure, his posture regal and his demeanor cool enough to make one''s heart race.


    He towered over her, his gaze piercing and dangerous, as if he could strip away her secrets with just a look.


    "Who taught you that?"


    Walter realized he had to reacquaint himself with Evangeline all over again. She was full of surprises.


    "Does it matter where I learned it? We agreed that if I won, you''d sign the divorce papers!"


    "Oh? Changed your mind about having kids?"


    Evangeline''s eyes shimmered with unshed tears, her drunkenness spreading like fire through her body. She gave a bitterugh, unafraid. "The world is full of powerful men. What does it matter who I have kids with? Just sign the papers, and tomorrow I can put out a call with a big reward for a child! I''m sure someone will take the offer. So, can you hurry up and sign, Mr. Walter Gordon?"


    "Ha! You think you''re going to use my alimony to keep a man? Keep dreaming," Walter sneered, his face contorted with disdain.


    "Why should you care what I do with it?" Evangeline snapped back, her struggle against him fueled by the humiliations he had inflicted and the wounds he wreaked on her heart. She had been waiting for that moment.


    She had moved on. What was left for him to be unhappy about?


    "Get your hands off me, you brute! You''re hurting me!"


    Walter felt a fire ignite within him at her resistance.


    In one swift move, he lifted her into his arms, her body pressed against his, making her all too aware of his physical presence. "So you think you need another man to handle you? So much anger, yet you dream of using my money to keep a lover?"


    He wrapped her in her coat and carried her out of the private room, straight into an adjacent suite. He ignored the curious eyes of the onlookers.


    Though the crowd had been asked to leave, many lingered, all of them eager to witness whether that tumultuous couple would end their marriage tonight.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline wished she could just disappear into thin air.


    She had stormed out earlier, her temper ring, barely covered by her cashmere coat.


    Then, feeling the man''s movements beneath her, Evangeline understood all too well-despite being drunk-what that sensation meant.


    "Let me go, Walter!" Her head spun, but the flush of embarrassment was unmistakable.


    This man was out of his mind!


    Three long years had passed. She had tried to tempt him countless times without sess, starting to believe he was incapable.


    However, in that heated moment, she realized it was not that he could not. He simply chose not to touch her.


    What had gotten into him today? Why was he suddenly responsive to her?


    She had resolved to divorce him. She did not need this, did not need him!


    "Go to your precious Julia!" Evangeline thrashed wildly, marking his pricey suit with the evidence of her defiance.


    She was bold in her resistance.


    However, in an instant, she was flung onto the bed. Walter loomed over her, his presence as chilling as a winter storm as he ripped off his tie and methodically removed his watch.


    The dim light obscured his face, but the fury emanating from him was palpable, a rage that felt like it could set the world aze.


    Evangeline fought the dizziness clouding her mind, trying to escape from the bed.


    However, Walter''s iron grip on her ankle pulled her back, folding her into a position of disgrace. The sound of his belting undone filled the room.


    She was no match for him. If that had happened just yesterday, before she knew Julia was back, maybe she would have been ted.


    It would never be the same at this point.


    After witnessing all he had done for Julia, after being haunted by their shared history, everything had changed. Each harsh word pierced her heart like a dagger.


    She was in disbelief.


    Her blood, once boiling with rage, felt as if it had frozen, leaving her feeling as exposed and deste as if she were standing naked in an endless snowfield, overwhelmed by a shame so deep it chilled her to the bone.


    She heard Walter''s voice, low and mocking at her ear, "Having a fit and wanting a divorce, is it just because you''re feeling lonely? Alright, then. If I don''t satisfy you today, then my name isn''t Walter!"


    Evangeline''s gaze was icy as she stared at him. "Walter, you''re a real piece of work! Do you even realize what you''re doing? You''re making me think you can''t stand the thought of divorcing me!" His arrogance seemed to vanish as if doused by a bucket of ice water.


    Walter released her, his striking features then as icy and forbidding as a barren wastnd.


    His eyes narrowed, a chilling sneer crossing his face as if he had heard the world''s funniest joke, or felt a sting of truth. "I can''t bear to?"


    Evangeline shoved him away. "What else could it be? Forcing me to step aside for your precious Julia. That''s what you''ve been after, right?


    "You skip out on New Year''s Eve to be with your dear Julia, just to spite me. Now that I''m ready to step back and give you what you want, you won''t sign the papers, and you have the nerve to want to sleep with me!


    "I thought you couldn''t stand to touch me? Wishing I was out of your life for good, right? What''s this, then? Are you just pping your own face?"


    Her words were like a spark to tinder, and Walter''s expression turned stormy.


    He gripped her chin harshly, his eyes a whirlwind of icy fury. "You''ve got it all wrong, Evangeline. It''s not that I don''t want to divorce, it''s that I''ll be the one to call the shots when ites to divorce!


    "Really, Evangeline? You think you can just take half of everything I own? Three years of marriage and you''ve barely left the house, living it up like a queen on my dime. You haven''t earned a cent, have you?" Walter''s sneer was as callous as the document he chucked out the window, watching it flutter into the ocean''s embrace.


    "Did you ever think to ask me when you cornered me with that marriage proposal? No, you didn''t. So why should I jump when you say ''divorce''? Why should you get all the perks? Have these three years of luxury made you delusional?"


    His face was a storm cloud as he methodically fastened his shirt buttons, his back to her. "You want a divorce? Fine. However, you''re walking away with nothing. If that''s not an issue, mywyer will have the papers ready. Otherwise, forget it."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 4

    Walter did not allow Evangeline to fight back, not sparing her another nce. With a face of stone and a fury that could shake the earth, he stormed out, mming the door behind him. The sound was like thunder, and the chill wind that followed seemed to freeze the room, the dark night and churning sea outside consuming Evangeline''s heart.


    However, she did not rage. Sheughed, augh that kept the tears at bay, and hurled her cup against the wall. "Walter, you bastard!"


    Her inner rebel, long caged, shattered the facade she had maintained for three years. He had unted Julia in her face, a clear message to get out of the Gordon family. However, when she was ready to do just that, he balked?


    She was not fooled. Walter was not the type to have second thoughts. He was always the one in charge, the mastermind. He would be damned if he was not the one calling the shots in their marriage, too.


    He could walk away from her, leaving her to wear thebel of a divorcee, but she was not allowed to challenge him.


    He could suggest divorce, but she was supposed to stay silent.


    Why was it that he couldvish all his love on the woman she despised most on New Year''s Eve, and she was expected to step aside, clearing the way for them?


    She was determined to end that marriage. She was set on iming half of the alimony, too. She would not let Julia get off with a windfall.


    After one too many drinks, her head spinning slightly, she sshed water on her face in the bathroom.


    When she stepped out of the lounge, the party on the yacht had wound down. Even Julia had vanished.


    With an arch of her brow, she strutted off the yacht in her stilettos.


    The night stretched out, vast and chilly, the wind biting.


    Evangeline stood solitary by the shore, on that New Year''s Eve of farewells and new beginnings, gazing at the distant twinkling lights of countless homes.


    She mustered her courage and dialed her uncle, James Foster.


    30 minutester, James'' sleek ck Porsche, the epitome of understated luxury, screeched to a halt before her.


    Evangeline, looking stunning despite the chill that had nearly numbed her limbs, climbed into the car. A wave of warmth enveloped her, and she finally dropped her defenses, looking up at James tearfully. "Uncle James... What took you so long?" James Foster, the topwyer at Halcyonia with a shroud of mystery around him, had risen to prominence in recent years. Ruthless in the courtroom and exceptional in his skills, he had a streak of wins so impressive that it was said he could turn the tide for the dead.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    At that moment, his piercing gaze fixed on his niece, he chided her with a mix of frustration and affection, "So you finally thought to call me, kiddo? I was starting to think you''d forgotten all about us!" Evangeline clung to James'' arm, looking pitiful. "Uncle James, I miss you."


    James'' brow furrowed as he gazed at her, his expression turning grave. "What''s going on? It''s the holidays, for crying out loud. Where''s Walter? Has he been giving you trouble?"


    She had not felt that kind of warmth in ages, and she nuzzled against James'' shoulder. "Uncle James, can you be mywyer? I want to divorce Walter. I can''t stand being with that jerk any longer!"


    James could not stand by and watch his niece endure such mistreatment. "I should''ve known you wouldn''te to me unless it''s serious. What were you thinking, falling for a loser like that? You''re so stubborn, but I bet you''re regretting it now, huh?"


    A mix of heartache and anger surged through James. He flicked Evangeline''s forehead in a moment of frustration.


    "If your grandpa and your other uncles get wind of this, they''ll want Walter''s hide."


    "No, we can''t let that happen! Uncle James, you''ve got to keep this under wraps for me. I''m scared it might break Grandpa''s heart... You''ve always been the best to me, please." She could not bear the thought of disappointing Cole.


    "Your grandpa''s health is fragile. The doctor said he''s gotten worse. His biggest dream is to hold a great-grandson, and he''s been holding out for some good news from you."


    The weight of her Cole''s hopes made Evangeline''s heart heavy.


    When the Foster family, once a powerhouse in the South, took a devastating hit, her grandpa fell ill. Her uncles, besieged by betrayal, struggled to keep the family afloat. To save the Fosters from ruin, she stepped up to marry Walter. With all her uncles still single, she became the beacon of hope for the family''s future.


    Cole had big ns for her, seeing her as the one to carry on the Foster family legacy. He wanted her to settle down with Walter and quickly give the family a precious new heir.


    However, life had other ns, and things became a mess.


    Her desire to have a baby was not just about keeping Walter close, it was about giving Cole peace of mind and a glimmer of hope.


    Everyone had pegged her as a simple girl from the sticks when she left the Rearden family for Cole''s country home. Little did they know about Cole''s real identity: Cole Foster, the enigmatic gambling tycoon of Halcyonia''s Southern Port. Evangeline had her game n for Cole''s dying wish.


    "Keep this under wraps for now. Once I''m pregnant, then we''ll break the news of my divorce from Walter."


    "What are you saying?" James asked.


    "Why does the baby have to be Walter''s? Any man with the right DNA will do. Why not go for a better option?" Evangeline pushed down her inner turmoil and nonchntly crossed her legs. "Don''t worry, Uncle. Give me two months, and I''ll be carrying the Foster family''s next golden boy." James could see Evangeline was ying with fire. "Having a baby isn''t a game. We can''t rush into this."


    They were all invested in Evangeline''s future, but they were not about to let her rush into single motherhood just to fulfill a wish.


    Evangeline, however, was resolute. "Just handle the divorce, Uncle. I''ll take care of the rest."


    Did Walter think she could not make it without him?


    Walter''s mother had justid down thew, threatening to kick her out in three months. Well, Evangeline was about to show them all. She was determined to prove to Walter that she did not need him to have a life, to have a family with another man.


    She would not wait three months; she was already ready to move on. She would find someone far better than Walter-someone a million times better!


    That cheating Walter could stay tied to Julia all he wanted.


    With that thought, she fired off a message. [I need a man who''s ready to start a family. Must be under thirty, standing at about 1.9 meters, drop-dead gorgeous with a genius-level IQ, and let''s just say... Well-endowed, skilled in bed. Ivy League grad, of course. And he''s got to outshine Walter by miles!]


    The person on the receiving end was thrilled to bits but kept it together long enough to respond crisply.


    "Got it. Your order will be delivered within a day, my Little Princess Foster. You''re finally ready to grace us with your presence."


    New Year''s Day dawned.


    The entire Gordon family had gathered, but Evangeline, usually the life of the party, was conspicuously absent.


    Aria Jones was fuming. She dared to skip out on family?


    When Walter walked into the house solo, the sound of a cup smashing echoed through the room. The livid Trey unleashed his fury on Walter.


    "You scoundrel! What mess have you gotten yourself into this time?! How dare you show your face here?!"


    The warm vibe of the Gordon family gathering turned ice-cold in an instant.


    Towering over most, he carried himself with an effortless grace, his posture rigid with pride. The chill in the air had him wrapped in a camel cashmere coat over his sharp ck suit. Stray locks of hair fell across his forehead, adding a touch of disarray to his otherwise icyposure.


    In the Gordon household, Trey was the one they did not cross. However, Walter did.


    Scolded or not, he greeted the door with a smile, handing his coat to the waiting butler.


    A nce around the foyer confirmed the absence of the one he sought, and his smile subtly waned.


    "Where''s Evangeline?" he asked.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 5

    Aria whispered to her son with a mix of affection and irritation, "Didn''t Evangeline go looking for youst night? She''s still not back? She''s not with you? She can''t have kids, and now she''s out all night during the holidays, not answering her phone, breaking all the rules. Your grandpa is furious!


    "I should''ve never agreed to let you bring her into this family. She''s a country girl, nowhere near your league. Marrying into the Gordons was the luckiest thing to ever happen to her!"


    Walter''s mind shed back to Evangeline''s determined mention of divorce the previous night, to her drinking and shooting pool, so different from the demure image she maintained at the Gordons''.


    Walter chuckled derisively. "We''ll see about that."


    Aria, not fully grasping Walter''s intent and preferring to avoid the topic of the unwee daughter-inw, said, "I heard Julia is back. I don''t care if your grandpa agrees or not, I''m giving Evangeline three more months. If she can''t get pregnant, she''ll have to step aside for Julia!"


    Walter''s expression remained unreadable, but his eyes grew more distant. "Mom... Did you bring up the divorce with her?"


    "What, should we let her keep her ce in the Gordons forever?"


    Walter could not help butugh in frustration, wordlessly storming through the door.


    "Hey! Walter!" Trey was waiting for him, propped up on his cane at the top of the steps. His face twisted with displeasure. "Get in my study, now!"


    Walter strolled into the study with a defiant swagger.


    Trey took a swing with his cane,nding a solid hit on Walter''s leg. "You good-for-nothing, gallivanting around on New Year''s Eve! I''ve heard the stories. Evie''s talking about divorce!


    "Listen to me: You still have a chance to fix this. Go find Evie, swallow your pride, and apologize. Do not take her for granted, because once she''s gone, she''s gone for good.


    "I''m telling you right now that you won''t find a better wife than Evie anywhere in this world!"


    With his hands in his pockets, Walter stood there, biting back the pain. Hezily raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? You think you know her better than I do?"


    "I certainly do!"


    Walter''s lips pressed into a thin, icy line.


    Trey huffed. "I can''t fathom you. You were the one who wanted to marry Evie. When she was down South, you were the one hiding her picture in your wallet. And now that she''s your wife, you treat her like this? What''s gotten into you?


    "Let me make this clear: Evie is the only granddaughter-inw I recognize. If you go through with this divorce, you can kiss your inheritance goodbye-your brother Alex can have it.


    "And another thing: You''ve got three months. If there''s no baby, don''t bother calling me Grandfather again."


    Walter''s expression turned stone-cold. His reply was sharp and defiant. "If you''re so desperate for a great-grandchild, Grandpa, ask Alex to give you one. Don''t waste your breath on me." With that, he turned on his heel and strode out, leaving the old man behind.


    The meeting ended with both parties storming off in a huff. The old man was livid, his voice thundering through the halls, "Go ahead! If you dare hurt Evie, you''ll live to regret it!" Someone would surely set things right in due time.


    Walter stormed out of Trey''s study, his face a thundercloud, and headed back to the bedroom he shared with Evangeline in the family mansion.


    It was his bachelor pad before the wedding. He rarely stayed there after getting hitched because Evangeline lived there. At this point, the room felt hollow, clearly untouched since the previous night.


    After a few calls, it was confirmed: Evangeline had not returned to their shared bedroom, and the cruise''s staff reported she had vanished in the wee hours.


    Walter''s handsome face was marred by a deep scowl.


    Just then, Daniel Harris, the family''s butler, knocked and presented him with an express-delivered envelope. "Mr. Walter Gordon, this urgent document was just rushed over for you."


    By the window, Walter unfolded the papers-a divorce summons.


    The attorney on record was none other than the illustrious James.


    A legal eagle of Avalon City, the fifth son of the prestigious Foster family from the South, James was a man of sterling pedigree, known for his criminal defense work, never for divorce. He did not just take any case his hourly fee was astronomical. Had Evangeline been acquainted with him all along? Was that why he would take her case, indicating she had been plotting that divorce for some time?


    Daniel, the butler, did not peek at the papers, but he could not miss the storm brewing on Walter''s face. "Mr. Walter Gordon, are you okay? Should we take care of that wound on your leg?"


    Trey sure did not hold back.


    "It''s fine, Daniel. You go ahead."


    Daniel did not push it and left quietly.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Walter stood by the panoramic window, his tall figure shrouded in a somber chill. Lips tight, he pulled out his phone and tried to call Evangeline, his face set in stone.


    However, the call would not go through.


    Next, he attempted a voice call through the messaging app, only to discover she had blocked him.


    The light cast his sharp features into relief as Walter dialed the number for James from the legalint. It took ages for James to pick up. "Hello, who''s this?"


    "Walter," said Walter, his voice a blend of deep tones and frost.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, did you get the legalint? Calling to say you''re ready to divorce my client?"


    Walter cut to the chase, his eyes a stormy brown. "Where is she? If she wants a divorce, tell her toe to the Gordon estate once more, or forget it."


    "My client probably won''t go for that, Mr. Walter Gordon. If you want a divorce, just agree to my client''s terms, and let''s end this cleanly. If you''re going to be stubborn about it, we''ll settle this in court. You saw the date, right? Next Monday morning, nine-thirty." Walter''s face turned icy with a mocking smile. "James, I''m not here to negotiate."


    No one in Avalon City had ever dared to drag him to court.


    "I''m not scared of your threats. Come at me, Walter!"


    Then, with a cool click, James hung up.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 6

    Walter ended the call, a storm brewing in his chest. He paced the room with a gloomy expression and smoked one cigarette after another until thest one was crushed in the ashtray.


    He grabbed his coat and stormed out of the bedroom, not without delivering a swift kick to the coffee table that sent it toppling over.


    Feeling the extremely low pressure, wherever he walked felt like a hurricane had passed through.


    Aria, oblivious to the brewing tempest, chased after him. "You just got back, and it''s the holidays! Where are you off to now? Why not stay and spend some time with me?"


    Walter said nothing as he marched out with a scowl on his face.


    Just then, his phone rang. It was Caden Scott, his close friend.


    "Missed the show on your yachtst night. I heard Evangeline gave you the boot and wants a divorce?"


    "News travels fast. I''m hanging up," said Walter.


    "Wait, don''t hang up. So it''s over? Who would''ve thought Evangeline had it in her to be so tough? The whole social circle is buzzing about you being dumped! And get thisst night, a richdy offered big bucks for a baby daddy, someone to outdo a Walter. That richdy is none other than Evie-Baby. Word is, she''s already got a candidate cozying up in the Ocean Crest Hotel''s presidential suite. You..."


    The message was loud and clear: Walter was being publicly cuckolded.


    "A bounty for a baby?!" At that, Walter''s frown cut deep, his heart pounding like a drum.


    "Yep. Don''t believe me? I''ll forward you the advertisement. There''s a line of guys queuing up for the chance!"


    Walter warned through clenched teeth, "Call her Evie-Baby one more time, and I''ll toss you to the sharks in the sea!"


    He ended the call with a frown.


    As expected, Caden sent the job posting over without a fuss.


    In the dim light, Walter''s piercing gaze scanned the advertisement for a potential father. The woman''s list was demanding: Tall, standing at least 1.9 meters, with a chiseled eight-pack, a sharp jawline, a straight nose, dark hair, smart, and skilled in bed. The guy had to be a Stanford grad, too, and better than him in every way?


    Could anyone in Avalon City even outmatch him?


    Walter slid his phone into his pocket, his face stormy as he jumped into his car and tore off toward the hotel like a predator on the hunt.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the Ocean Crest Hotel''s presidential suite, Evangeline was pressed against the wall by a towering hunk with a mix of bloodlines. Blond and blue-eyed, he was shirtless, a towel slung low on his hips.


    Evangeline''s gentle hands roamed over his muscr back. "Handsome... You''re way more appealing than my good-for-nothing soon-to-be ex!"


    Being single and rich had its perks. She could have her pick of pretty boys.


    She could not believe she had been so foolish before. She had everything-spoiled, willful, and adored. All that, and she had put up with so much just for Walter, that jerk.


    "Is that so? I''m d you like it," he murmured.


    "I do, and I''ll give you anything you want," she purred.


    "You''re gorgeous, and you smell amazing..."


    He was about to lean in for a kiss when suddenly, the door burst open with a loud bang. It mmed against the wall and swung back violently.


    A wave of deadly intent flooded the room.


    The bodyguards burst in, and the mixed-race dude who had been on Evangeline was suddenly sprawled on the floor.


    He exploded in rage, cursing loudly, "Get off me! What''s your problem?!"


    Evangeline was taken aback by the sudden intrusion of the men in ck, her face turning pale. She hastily pulled her shawl around her to cover her slip dress.


    Was Walter looking to y the hero? She nced up and saw him at the door,manding the room like a celebrity with an entourage.


    Evangeline regained herposure, leaned back against the wall, and let out a mocking chuckle. "Walter? What are you doing here?! Tell your goons to back off and release my Alex!"


    Walter stood at the doorway, his towering presence and dark eyes casting an intimidating aura, like a judge from the underworld.


    d in a sharp ck suit and a structured cashmere coat, his legs encased in perfectly tailored pants, he cut a striking figure against the backlight. His expression was icy, his lips a tight line. The room''s heat dropped like a stone.


    He stared at Evangeline, lingering on her red lips before a calcted smile yed on his own. He walked into the room with purpose.


    The hotel was part of the Gordon Group empire.


    With the arrival of the big boss, the hotel''s top brass had all shown up.


    Walter''s footsteps, calm and measured, echoed ominously as he approached the mixed-race guy, the bodyguard forcing him to look up. Walter stood imposingly at about 1.9 meters tall. "Which hand touched her?" he demanded.


    "Who the hell are you to care?!" Alex shot back.


    A bodyguard''s hand cracked across Alex''s face, instantly causing his sharp features to swell.


    "I''m the ''dearly departed'' soon-to-be ex she''s been talking about."


    Not a minuteter, Walter''s foot came down on his hand. The guy, Alex, screamed in agony.


    Evangeline could even hear the sickening snap of bones as she lunged to reim herpanion. "You''re insane, Walter! Release him!"


    Before she could reach Alex, Walter''s firm grip encircled her waist, yanking her back into his unyielding hold. She was seething, iling a small hammer, raining down a storm of blows on him. Walter seized her chin, his eyes dark with scorn. "Really, Evangeline? You''d sink this low for a guy? Are you that desperate for thepany?"


    Evangeline''s gaze turned icy as she struggled, "What''s wrong with him? Mixed-race, young, a stallion, and easy on the eyes! A hell of a lot better than a washed-up soon-to-be ex like you!"


    "Is that so?" Walter''s eyes flicked dismissively over the man on the ground, his voice dripping with indifference, "Hector, take him down!"


    "Walter! Stop it! You can''t hurt him!" Evangeline cried out.


    Walter''s icyugh echoed at her quick defense of a man she had just met.


    "Useless and dirty, that''s all I hear from you!"


    Talking all the while, Walter calmly undid his cufflinks, then, with a flick of impatience, pulled off his tie and advanced on Evangeline.


    "Three years alone, and you''re this starved for attention?" He gripped her chin, pinning her against the wall. "Cheating before we''re even divorced. Didn''t yourwyer clue you in? Cheaters don''t get much in the split. No cash, no way to pay yourwyer. Think your pretty boy will stick around without your money?"


    His eyes roamed her delicately made-up face, then down to the slip dress she wore, more provocative thanst night''s, barely covering anything.


    His expression darkened like the depths of the ocean.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 7

    melted away as she rushed to him, clinging to his arm and murmuring something.


    James'' expression turned icy as he shot Walter a withering look, then led Evangeline to the front desk.


    Like a knight in shining armor, he whipped out his phone and took care of the bill. "Ms. Rearden''s room charges are on me."


    Just like that, 300000 dors hit the hotel''s ount with a thud.


    "Forget the change.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re so tightfisted with your wife. Consider the rest a parting gift from me, for all the kindness you''ve shown our Evie thesest couple of years." With that, he whisked Evangeline away, leaving Walter as if he were nothing but a ghost.


    Who would have guessed James would settle Evangeline''s bill without batting an eye? They must share bond deeper than anyone else knew.


    Walter''s expression hardened as he stared at James and Evangeline''s linked arms.


    His voice cut through the silence like a specter in the night, "James, you have the nerve to take on my divorce case. Ready to throw away the empire you''ve ved over?" James did not even look back. "Big talk for someone so small, Walter. I won''t stoop to your level. But mark my words: With me in the picture, you''re the one who''s going down!" With those final words, James pulled Evangeline along. They disappeared into the night.


    The air in the hotel lobby turned icy in their wake.


    No one caught the chilling menace shing in Walter''s shadowed eyes.


    Just then, Hector, the bodyguard, finished dealing with the mixed-race kid Alex upstairs and hurried down, only to find Walter standing alone.


    He approached Walter cautiously. "Mr. Walter Gordon? I''ve carried out your orders. The kid''s been kicked out of the country for good. He won''t ever step foot in Alvernia again."


    Walter stormed out, furiously unbuttoning his shirt cor. "Find out everything about this James guy and all of Evangeline''s connections down south over the past few years! I want answers in thirty minutes!" "Right away!"


    Evangeline and James walked out of the hotel, arm in arm.


    Once in the car, James yfully flicked Evangeline''s smooth forehead. "You''re getting too gutsy, picking up guys like that."


    Evangeline winced as tears formed in her eyes. "I wasn''t just picking anyone. I found a guy with mixed heritage, perfect for having a super-smart, drop-dead gorgeous Foster heir, Ugh, but no-Walter had to mess it all up!*


    "I didn''te just to stop you. You know, your grandpa''s New Year''s wish was to see you and Walter at the hospital. If you don''t, he''s talking about giving up treatment and just waiting to die at home. He even skipped his meds this morning." That stubborn old man.


    "Why didn''t you tell me sooner, Uncle?" Evangeline''s voice trembled. "Walter and I just had a huge fight. How can I bring him back now without making Grandpa''s hopes soar?"


    "True, Walter can be such a pain." James had almost lost it earlier. "Your grandpa isn''t doing well. The doctor says he might have just three months if we''re not careful. We better keep the divorce under wraps. It would crush him."


    "What do I do?!" Evangeline''s heart clenched in pain, realizing her grandfather''s condition was worse than she thought. She knew how sharp he was.


    How delicate. She could not bear to break his heart.


    The phone buzzed with an iing video call-it was Trey. His face filled the screen, his eyes soft and rimmed with red. "Evie, I know all about the trouble with Walter. Where have you been? Why haven''t youe home? Have you given up on me too?" Evangeline fought to keep her voice steady. "Grandpa, I''m sorry, I just..."


    "That Walter, he''s done something unforgivable! Listen, Evie, I''m on your side. I told that jerk if you two split, I''m giving you all my shares in thepany. Alex can take over the family business."


    It suddenly clicked for Evangeline. That exined why Walter was against the divorce: Grandpa Trey had been leaning on him.


    She could not afford to live in a fantasy.


    A pang of sadness hit her. "Grandpa, thank you for everything, for treating me like your own. No matter what happens with Walter, you''re still my grandpa. If you ever need anything, I''m here."


    "Is that so? Well, I do need a favor. Could youe home? I''ve been craving the coffee you make. It''s just not the same without you. If you can''t, maybe you could show Mrs. Thompson how to brew it? Then I won''t have to bother you." Trey''s voice was sincere, and he dabbed at his eyes, his plea tugging at her heartstrings. "You know, I was actually nning to visit my grandpa..."


    "Ah, Cole? Have you told him about you and Walter?" Trey asked.


    "Grandpa, could you keep this between us for a little while? I don''t want to worry him until he''s feeling better."


    "You really need toe back," said Trey over the phone, his voice tinged with suspicion. "He''s onto us, I think. Kept asking for a picture of you and Walter. I told him you lovebirds were holed up in your room, and that seemed to do the trick.


    Chapter


    "How about you swing by now? You and I can put on a little show, keep the old man in the dark a bit longer. You know how he gets it."


    Evangeline was not bothered by much, but Cole''s health was another story.


    She pinched the bridge of her nose. "Just give me a minute, Grandpa. I''ll be right there."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She could not let Cole find out.


    "Okay, kiddo, I''ll be here waiting!"


    Once she hung up, Evangeline had James drive her back to the Gordon family estate.


    She had dashed out so quickly the previous evening.


    The divorce talk with Walter hade out of nowhere, and she had left so much behind at the Gordon estate, not to mention in the home she had shared with Walter.


    Never returning was not an option, especially not over the New Year. She did not want to cast a shadow over Trey''s celebrations.


    However, the moment she stepped through the gates of the Gordon estate, Evangeline immediately regretted her timing.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 8

    Chapter 8


    At the sound of the voice, Evangeline nced toward the entrance.


    James strode in, looking sharp in his suit and his schrly gold-rimmed sses. Evangeline''s caution melted away as she rushed to him, clinging to his arm and murmuring something. James'' expression turned icy as he shot Walter a withering look, then led Evangeline to the front desk.


    Like a knight in shining armor, he whipped out his phone and took care of the bill. "Ms. Rearden''s room charges are on me."


    Just like that, 300000 dors hit the hotel''s ount with a thud.


    "Forget the change.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re so tightfisted with your wife. Consider the rest a parting gift from me, for all the kindness you''ve shown our Evie thesest couple of years." With that, he whisked Evangeline away, leaving Walter as if he were nothing but a ghost.


    Who would have guessed James would settle Evangeline''s bill without batting an eye? They must share bond deeper than anyone else knew.


    Walter''s expression hardened as he stared at James and Evangeline''s linked arms.


    His voice cut through the silence like a specter in the night, "James, you have the nerve to take on my divorce case. Ready to throw away the empire you''ve ved over?" James did not even look back. "Big talk for someone so small, Walter. I won''t stoop to your level. But mark my words: With me in the picture, you''re the one who''s going down!" With those final words, James pulled Evangeline along. They disappeared into the night.


    The air in the hotel lobby turned icy in their wake.


    No one caught the chilling menace shing in Walter''s shadowed eyes.


    Just then, Hector, the bodyguard, finished dealing with the mixed-race kid Alex upstairs and hurried down, only to find Walter standing alone.


    He approached Walter cautiously. "Mr. Walter Gordon? I''ve carried out your orders. The kid''s been kicked out of the country for good. He won''t ever step foot in Alvernia again."


    Walter stormed out, furiously unbuttoning his shirt cor. "Find out everything about this James guy and all of Evangeline''s connections down south over the past few years! I want answers in thirty minutes!" "Right away!"


    Evangeline and James walked out of the hotel, arm in arm.


    Once in the car, James yfully flicked Evangeline''s smooth forehead. "You''re getting too gutsy, picking up guys like that."


    Evangeline winced as tears formed in her eyes. "I wasn''t just picking anyone. I found a guy with mixed heritage, perfect for having a super-smart, drop-dead gorgeous Foster heir, Ugh, but no-Walter had to mess it all up!*


    "I didn''te just to stop you. You know, your grandpa''s New Year''s wish was to see you and Walter at the hospital. If you don''t, he''s talking about giving up treatment and just waiting to die at home. He even skipped his meds this morning." That stubborn old man.


    "Why didn''t you tell me sooner, Uncle?" Evangeline''s voice trembled. "Walter and I just had a huge fight. How can I bring him back now without making Grandpa''s hopes soar?"


    "True, Walter can be such a pain." James had almost lost it earlier. "Your grandpa isn''t doing well. The doctor says he might have just three months if we''re not careful. We better keep the divorce under wraps. It would crush him."


    "What do I do?!" Evangeline''s heart clenched in pain, realizing her grandfather''s condition was worse than she thought. She knew how sharp he was.


    How delicate. She could not bear to break his heart.


    The phone buzzed with an iing video call-it was Trey. His face filled the screen, his eyes soft and rimmed with red. "Evie, I know all about the trouble with Walter. Where have you been? Why haven''t youe home? Have you given up on me too?" Evangeline fought to keep her voice steady. "Grandpa, I''m sorry, I just..."


    "That Walter, he''s done something unforgivable! Listen, Evie, I''m on your side. I told that jerk if you two split, I''m giving you all my shares in thepany. Alex can take over the family business."


    It suddenly clicked for Evangeline. That exined why Walter was against the divorce: Grandpa Trey had been leaning on him.


    She could not afford to live in a fantasy.


    A pang of sadness hit her. "Grandpa, thank you for everything, for treating me like your own. No matter what happens with Walter, you''re still my grandpa. If you ever need anything, I''m here."


    "Is that so? Well, I do need a favor. Could youe home? I''ve been craving the coffee you make. It''s just not the same without you. If you can''t, maybe you could show Mrs. Thompson how to brew it? Then I won''t have to bother you."


    Trey''s voice was sincere, and he dabbed at his eyes, his plea tugging at her heartstrings. "You know, I was actually nning to visit my grandpa..."


    "Ah, Cole? Have you told him about you and Walter?" Trey asked.


    "Grandpa, could you keep this between us for a little while? I don''t want to worry him until he''s feeling better."


    "You really need toe back," said Trey over the phone, his voice tinged with suspicion. "He''s onto us, I think. Kept asking for a picture of you and Walter. I told him you lovebirds were holed up in your room, and that seemed to do the trick.


    Chapter


    "How about you swing by now? You and I can put on a little show, keep the old man in the dark a bit longer. You know how he gets it."


    Evangeline was not bothered by much, but Cole''s health was another story.


    She pinched the bridge of her nose. "Just give me a minute, Grandpa. I''ll be right there."


    She could not let Cole find out.


    "Okay, kiddo, I''ll be here waiting!"


    Once she hung up, Evangeline had James drive her back to the Gordon family estate.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She had dashed out so quickly the previous evening.


    The divorce talk with Walter hade out of nowhere, and she had left so much behind at the Gordon estate, not to mention in the home she had shared with Walter.


    Never returning was not an option, especially not over the New Year. She did not want to cast a shadow over Trey''s celebrations.


    However, the moment she stepped through the gates of the Gordon estate, Evangeline immediately regretted her timing.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 9

    Chapter 9


    The New Year holiday brought a stream of visitors to the Gordons''. The estate was aze with lights and festive cheer. In the living room, a circle of societydies chatted, with her mother-inw Ar��a ying the gracious hostess.


    Evangeline''s gazended on the familiar mother-daughter duo sitting beside Walter''s mother Aria-Julia and her mother.


    Lydia Carlson, Julia''s mother, was all dolled up in a pink dress that still showed off her timeless grace, with bold and striking makeup. Julia was decked out in a fancy yellow gown so grand that everyone would think she was the bride at a wedding.


    Julia fluttered around Aria like a butterfly,ying on the charm thick. "Mdm Gordon, it''s been three whole years, and look at you-more gorgeous and youthful than ever. If we hit the town together, people will swear we''re sisters."


    Aria''s smile was wide enough to light up the room, her eyes twinkling with fondness for Julia. "Oh, Julia, you''ve had it rough while you were away. It warms my heart that you''re back and thinking of me. Now I''ve got my chat buddy again." "Mdm. Gordon, please... Walter and I... It just wasn''t meant to be."


    "Poppycock! Not meant to be? You two are sweet to each other. If it hadn''t been for someone sticking their nose in, you''d be over the moon with happiness!" Aria eximed. "I heard Walter threw you a wee home bashst night. After Evangeline and Walter split up..." Evangeline overheard the whole exchange, but she did not let it show.


    She strode through the living room, not bothering with pleasantries, making a beeline for Trey''s ce.


    Aria spotted her, and her mood flipped. "Evangeline, hold it right there! Where on earth were you all night? Youe back and don''t even greet anyone? Your mother and sister are here, and you just ignore them?"


    That stopped Evangeline in her tracks. She turned, hands casually in her pockets, and said with a hint of defiance, "My mother has been gone for ages. What mother are you talking about?"


    ""You!"


    Lydia stepped in with a soothing tone, "Easy, Aria. The kid has always had the wrong idea about me. I''m not holding on to any grudge."


    "Misunderstanding? What could I be confused about? You think you''re not the homewrecker? Trying to clear your name or throw dirt on me and my mother?"


    "No, Evie, you''ve got it all wrong! I didn''t mean that..." Lydia tried to


    look the part of the devoted wife and mother. "We didn''t mean to upset you today. Your dad said it''s been ages since you''ve been home, and we couldn''t reach you by phone. Your sister just got back, so I thought I''d bring her along." Evangeline almostughed, but she could not be bothered with them.


    She stood on the steps, her gaze distant and aloof, towering over Lydia. "Home? Remember how you were the ones who threw me out? Told me I''d never be wee again? Forgot your own words, have you?


    Chapter


    It was not long after her mother died that Lydia and Julia waltzed right into her life, taking over her mom''s house and bedroom. They tried to pin the me on her for Julia''s pool ident, just to get rid of her. On a stormy night, they tossed her but like yesterday''s trash.


    Back then, it was her grandpa''s contact info her mother had given her that saved her. The elderly man took her in, and since she moved to Avalon City with the Gordons, she had not stepped foot in that house again. Truth was, Evangeline was done being Andrew Rearden''s daughter. Even when Andrew tried to cozy up to her, seeing her as the Gordons'' youngdy, she never gave him or Lydia the time of day.


    A cheater and his mistress? They would never get her forgiveness. Especially not after their lovey-dovey act drove her mother to her grave.


    Evangeline had carried the weight of her mother''s bitter secret alone for years.


    Her mother''sst wish was clear: "Keep the truth hidden from your grandpa and uncles." She did not want them to know the depths of her unhappiness.


    Yessica, the once-revered daughter of the enigmatic Foster family from the South, had given up


    everything for love. She had fallen for Andrew, a boy with empty pockets, and chose him over her family''s approval.


    To protect her mother''s legacy, Evangeline had kept silent about Andrew and Lydia''s shameful deeds, avoiding any mention that might lead to a scandalous revenge.


    s, fate had a cruel sense of humor. Their daughter, Julia, just had to stir up trouble.


    As if history was repeating itself, she found herself walking in her mother''s footsteps. Enough was enough.


    "Oh, don''t think I''ve forgotten-the house belonged to my mother. It''s time for you to leave!"


    Lydia, Julia, and Aria''s faces turned pale at her words.


    Aria mmed her palm onto the table. "Evangeline! Are you even speaking like a civilized person? I swear you can''t teach ss to someone who has none! It wasmon knowledge-you were the one who couldn''t stand your sister, nearly drowning her in the pool! And your mother''s affair, carrying another man''s child, that''s Lydia''s fault too?


    "I regret ever opening my door to you! If Walter had chosen Julia from the start, I wouldn''t be dealing with this disgrace every single day!"


    She stood tall, her face contorted with rage. "You''re nning to leave Walter, aren''t you? Then leave now! I can''t stand the sight of you! Mrs. Smith, pack her things. It''s time for her to go!"


    Lily Smith, the housemaid, stood frozen, unsure of her next move.


    In that household, Trey''s word was the final say, and the young mistress Evangeline was the darling of the patriarch.


    "Madam, Mr. Trey Gordon himself sent for Mrs. Walter Gordon to return. He''s eagerly awaiting the coffee


    only shoe how to make," she said.


    Julia bit back her envy and finally rose tofort Aria, "Mdm. Gordon, please don''t hold a grudge against Evangeline! I''m sure it wasn''t intentional... Don''t let my issuese between you and her. Besides, she made it clear that even if she and Walt split up, I shouldn''t even dream of bing a Gordon, so I''ve let that go."


    Her words only stoked the mes.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "What is she? A nobody about to be kicked to the curb! Can she really stop Walter from marrying you?!" With a forced smile, Julia said, "Please, don''t be mad at her. Let me just talk to her, just us."


    She approached Evangeline, gazing up at her, and murmured, "Evangeline, if I were you, I''d be too ashamed to ever walk through the Gordons'' door again. Your husband doesn''t love you, your mother-in-w despises you, and you''ll always be a country girl out of her element. Clinging to the Gordons-what''s the point?"


    Evangeline''s gaze turned icy. "Are you asking for trouble?"


    "Go on, hit me. I bet you don''t have the nerve!" Julia taunted.


    In the next instant, a sharp p echoed as it met Julia''s cheek. "Ahh!"


    "Need another p, or was one enough?"


    With that taunt, Julia''s other cheek puffed up from a second strike.


    to burst into tears or fall


    She swayed, tears brimming, hands cupping her reddened cheeks, looking ready to burst into right down the stairs.


    "Remember, I didn''t push you," said Evangeline. "If you fall, it''s on you."


    Julia''s face went pale, then her eyes flicked to the doorway where a tall, striking man stood. She bit her lip, her voice trembling, "But I just wanted you toe see Dad, you know? Why''d you strike me?" She wobbled, as if about to lose her bnce, but then froze, spotting the neer. "Walt? Your back?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 10

    Chapter 10


    Atst, Evangeline''s gazended on Walter by the door


    His tall frame cut a silhouette against the light as he handed his ck suit jacket to the butler, his ck vest and crisp white shirt in full view.


    He walked forward, face stern as he adjusted his tie. He did not have to say a word, and the room''s mood plummeted to an icy chill.


    The once festive hall fell silent. Everyone''s eyes were glued to the scene, anticipating the drama.


    Nheless, Evangeline wasposed. She had heard the car engine outside the moment she pped Julia, and those ps were a show for him. Walter''s steady steps brought him closer, his eyes briefly scanning Julia''s swollen face before settling on Evangeline, his brow furrowing in disapproval.


    Julia, sensing a shift, ran down the stairs to Walter, her tears turned to weapons. "Don''t be mad at her, Walt. She''s probably upset and didn''t want to see me, causing her tosh out." Walter''s eyes were icy as he stared at her. "Who said you coulde here?"


    The question startled everyone. He did not sound the least bit weing.


    The whole city was buzzing about how Walter hadvished Julia with gifts the night before. The gossip was not just among the youngsters; even the heads of the top families knew.


    Julia was stunned by Walter''s frosty demeanor. A sh of pain crossed her eyes, but she masked it quickly. Biting her lower lip, she stammered, "It''s the New Year holiday. I came with Mom to join Mr. Gordon Senior and Mdm. Gordon in celebration..." Tears welled in her eyes as she gazed at Walter, her look so forlorn it would soften any man''s heart.


    However, Walter''s lips were a thin, icy line. "Then why did you mess with Evangeline?"


    "I... I didn''t... My sister just came up and pped me. I don''t know why..."


    Evangeline had no patience for their drama, especially not in front of everyone. She did not even nce at Walter''s reaction before unfeelingly turning away and heading upstairs.


    She hade to wish Trey a happy new year and to go to the hospital to check on Grandpa Cole, not to waste time on people she would rather avoid.


    As she walked away without a backward nce, Walter''s face turned stormy. "Stop right there!"


    However, Evangeline did not need to think twice to know Walter was trying to take Julia''s side. She ignored him entirely.


    Walter was seething, his lips a firm hard line as he moved to follow her, but his mother''s voice stopped him.


    Aria, proud of her son, thought he was about to side with Julia. She sternly called out, "Hold on, Walter! I want a word."


    "What is it?" Walter fiddled with his shirt buttons, ncing at his mother.


    Aria''s expression was all hard lines. "Evangeline has crossed the line! She wanted the divorce, right? Couldn''t she just slip away without a fuss for the new year? But no, she had to stir up a storm! Look at Julia''s face-all bruised up. "You have to do Julia right. Go up there,y it all out for Evangeline, and wrap up this divorce mess. Julia doesn''t deserve to suffer like this!"


    Walter''s eyes rested lightly on his mother. "Stay out of it, Mom. This is between Evangeline and me."


    Aria''s face fell at her son''s tone. "So, when are you two sorting out the divorce? Afterst night''s drama with Julia, everyone''s buzzing about your wedding."


    "Wedding?"


    Walter turned to Julia, her cheeks pink as she avoided his gaze. "Great, why don''t you clear the air aboutst night? I''m all ears." "Walt..."


    "Don''t call me that." Walter''s gaze was stern, and he stood still ominously.


    Julia''s heart skipped. His frosty, deep eyes made her feel guilty. She had let it slip that Walter was ditching Evangeline, the so-called country girl, and that she, Julia, was next in line. However, she never said it outright-it was all just gossip. She simply cozied up to Walter, ying thedy.


    With that thought, Julia steadied herself. She could not let that little scandal ruin her standing with Walter. Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears, the picture of vulnerability.


    "What''s the matter? Are you upset because of the spat had with my sister today? I wanted to invite her over for a visit, nothing more. If you don''t like me...


    Watching Julia''s distress, Aria stepped in to shield her "Walter, how can you be so tough on Julia? You know she''s always been delicate. Don''t tell me you''ve forgotten who she changed for... Julia, ignore him!" Walter''s face eased a bit as he recalled everything Julia had done for him.


    Julia gently tugged at his sleeve, offering a generous smile. "Let''s forget it, I''m to me. Don''t be mad. Go and cheer up my sister. I''ll be okay."


    She expected a fewforting words, but Walter shrugged off her hand and headed upstairs to find


    Evangeline without a backward nce tAll content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Downstairs, Aria was beside herself with worry. "Julia, you sweet, silly girl, it''s Evangeline who''s at fault. You''re the one who''s been hurt, yet you''re nudging Walter back to her... What about your feelings?" "It''s fine, Mdm. Gordon. Maybe he''s not ready for a divorce. I don''t want to trouble him... As long as he''s happy, I''m content to be the woman who supports him in silence."


    Aria''s heart ached more with each understanding word


    She took Julia''s hand, offering sce. "My dear, you''re the daughter-inw I always wanted. Your sister took your ce. With everything you''ve done for Walter, how could he not want to marry you?" Chapter 10


    With a promise in her eyes, Aria assured her, "Don''t worry, their marriage is as good as over."


    Julia nodded meekly. "I''ll follow your lead."


    Even so, a chill flickered in the depths of her heart.


    Walter climbed the stairs and was greeted by the sound of Evangeline and the family patriarch, Trey, talking in the study.


    Walter drew closer with each step but hesitated at the door, letting his hand drop.


    He wore his suit jacket over one arm and casually opened the top two buttons of his shirt, revealing a hint of his alluring corbone.


    Leaning against the wall, his tall frame stood out as he eavesdropped on the conversation between Trey and Evangeline.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 11

    Chapter 11


    Inside the study at that very moment....


    Evangeline sat on the leather sofa, massaging Trey''s shoulders with a sense of remorse. "Grandpa, I''m sorry. It''s a New Year, and I''m still causing you worry."


    Trey gently patted Evangeline''s hand, his expression tender and assuring. "I''m well aware of the situation between you and Walter. You weren''t too upset when you came up, were you? This boy has been the one to wrong you over the years, and even your mother-in-w has been deceived. But rest assured, Julia won''t get into the Gordon family. Not on my watch. To me, you''ll always be Mrs. Walter Gordon."


    The soft light of early spring sneaked through the window, bathing her fair and lovely skin, making it glow like fine porcin.


    Just as she was about to object, Trey continued, "Evie, I''ve decided to transfer forty percent of thepany''s shares to you. How does that sound? I had set it aside for you and Walter''s little family, but since he''s been such a disappointment, I''m putting it all in your name. way, he won''t dare mistreat you again, much less think about divorce." Trey knew better than anyone Evangeline''s true standing within the Gordon family.


    There was a time when she shone with life, unapologetically bold, fearless of anything and everything, the darling of the Foster family, adored by all. However, in the Gordon household, she turned into a shadow of herself, quiet and submissive, all to win Walter''s favor. Trey could not stomach the way she was treated in the Gordon family.


    Evangeline knew she had not misunderstood.


    Walter had told her to leave with nothing, but Trey? He entrusted her with all his shares. What a massive disy of trust.


    Did he not worry she would just take the money and run, leaving Walter and everything else in shambles?


    Evangeline did not want Walter''s pity or the guilt-driven handouts from his grandfather. She wanted Walter''s fortune, his Strata King Group''s wealth. Walter was the one who owed her, not his grandfather.


    She was about to voice her decline when someone interrupted her.


    "No." A frigid, deep voice cut through the silence as the door swung open, ushering in a wave of frostiness. Walter stood there, tall and foreboding, his face a stormy shadow.


    His words were icy, each cutting deep, "The old guard of the board would never let the Gordon family''s legacy fall into the hands of an outsider."


    Walter''s piercing gaze fixed on Evangeline, his words sharp as needles, "Thought you couldn''t squeeze a dime out of me? So you went after Grandpa?"


    That exined her sudden willingness toe back home.


    Scoffing at the thought, she braced herself for the confrontation.


    Evangeline had to stifle augh. After years of toiling for the Gordon family, being the perfect wife, she was still seen as an outsider in his eyes.


    1/3.


    Chapter


    The livid Trey mmed his cup down, sending coffee flying in all directions.


    "Shut it, kid! Evie is yourwfully wedded wife. How can you say such things? I''m ashamed of you.


    "Listen up, I''ve made up my mind about the inheritance. If you don''t give me a grandson with Evie, I''m giving it all to her. You''re too busy enjoying yourself, ignoring the family''s needs and scorning your birthright. And bringing that Julia into our home, just to provoke me? Yo Walter''s face turned stone-cold at the rebuke. He stood there, his piercing gaze fixed on Evangeline, his imposing presence suddenly icy.


    Walter''s humiliation was a sweet victory for Evangeline. If she took over as the Gordon family''s heir, she would be the one calling the shots. Walter would have to bow down to her.


    How would he save his dignity? What would be of Julia''s little scheme?


    The thought made her chuckle. The inheritance did not seem like such a burden after all.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Once upon a time, their grandfathers had dreamed of a grand union through their marriage,bining their fortunes to forge an even stronger legacy. s, it seemed they were on the brink of going their separate ways.


    Evangeline seemed caught in a wave of emotion, hesitating to ept the offer. Trey, sensing her reluctance, cut straight to the chase. "Evie, you have to take it. I''ll have thewyere by in a few days to finalize everything. If you refuse to ept this, I''ll spill your secrets Evangeline fell silent.


    That was an outright threat! Thest thing she wanted was for the elderly man to spill her secrets to Walter.


    Back in the day, Walter could not have cared less about her, and she had gotten by just fine without his attention.


    However, she figured it was best to keep things simple. After she divorced Walter, she could leave the Gordons for good and get back to her own life, no strings attached.


    Even so, she could not deny the guilty pleasure of watching Walter''s crestfallen face. The thought of Julia''s shattered dreams brought a mischievous smile to her lips.


    She looked at Walter with a challenging gleam in her eyes. "Fine, if Grandpa insists on giving, I won''t say no. Thanks, Grandpa."


    Walter''s response was a chilling, mockingugh. His face was as rigid as ice, his eyes piercing. He did not say a word, but the air around him felt heavy with unspoken threats. Evangeline, unfazed, stood with her arms folded and an eyebrow raised, meeting his gaze head-on.


    Their eyes were locked in a silent battle of wills.


    Evangeline''s gaze was icy, ensnaring. Walter''s was a dark abyss.


    Just then, her phone buzzed with an iing video call.


    +25 BC


    It was from her maternal grandpa, Cole. She had been giving Trey a shoulder rub earlier, and her phone! on the desk, within his view.


    Trey''s eyes twinkled with mischief as he saw the caller ID. "Evie, pick up. Your old man''s making his rounds," he said with a sly grin.


    Evangeline had onlye back to appease Cole''s routine checks.


    Little did she expect Walter, the human equivalent of wa third wheel, to be there.


    She could not help but wonder what Cole would make of that situation.


    Left with no other option, she took a deep breath and grabbed her phone.


    "What''s Evie up to?" Cole''s voice came through the phone, warm andmanding.


    It was a video call, and Evangeline awkwardly pointed the camera at herself and Trey.


    "I''m just giving Grandpa Trey a massage, Grandpa. I''ve missed you."


    Life had been a whirlwind of chaos, and she had been dodging Cole, partly because she dreaded the inevitable baby talk with Walter. It had been ages since theirst chat.


    As she secretly worked on her big ns, Evangeline could not shake off a little guilt.


    "Ha, you always say you miss me, but you never bring Walter over. You''ve been married for ages, and I haven''t even met my granddaughter''s husband," said Cole with mock annoyance. Ever since his daughter Yessica passed away, Cole, the legendary business mogul, had saved all his softness for his only granddaughter.


    "Oh, don''t trouble Evie. I''m the one keeping her busy brewing coffee. And you, old man, don''t even think about snatching her away!" Trey dered, staking his im.


    Cole and Trey were more than friends. They were brothers in arms, something Walter was clueless abou He had never bothered to find out.


    Evangeline, Trey, and Coleughed and chatted in front of the camera, a perfect picture of family warmthpletely ignoring Walter. It was as if the tension had simply vanished. Walter''s expression darkened ominously.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 12

    Chapter 12


    ''Wasn''t Evangeline''s maternal grandfather supposed to be tucked away in the mountains of Sapphire City? When did he and Grandpa be such good friends?'' thought Walter.


    He had just heard his grandfather bring him up, and Evangeline had quickly changed the subject.


    Something told him they were keeping a big secret from him.


    Walter, intent on proving a point, rose to his feet with a calcted slowness. He casually adjusted his cor, a deliberate move that showcased his sculpted, golden chest.


    His tailored ck pants hugged his long legs, and the crisp white shirt entuated his chiseled features- an air of unmatched elegance about him.


    With a hand nonchntly tucked in his pocket, he sauntered past them, pausing by the expansive window.


    Bathed in the outside light, he looked like a model, his proportions almost painfully perfect, his looks top-tier. It was as if he were a god emerging from the glow.


    Evangeline was taken aback. Walter, who never paid her any mind, was suddenly interested in her call with her maternal grandfather.


    If res could turn lethal, Walter would be riddled with holes from Evangeline''s piercing stare.


    She did not want Cole to meet him just yet, but there he was, hogging the limelight. The guy just could not help showing off, like a grasshopper in the fall, always bouncing into the spotlight.


    Walter''s little act did not go unnoticed. Cole had spotted him, the striking figure he was behind Evangeline.


    "Is... Is that Walter?" asked Cole, leaning into the camera in excitement and disbelief.


    Before Evangeline could hush him, Walter turned, feigning surprise, as if he had just realized they were talking about him on the screen.


    He strode overnguidly and leaned in, his shirt tracing the powerful arch of his back. He reached around to gently pull Evangeline close, nearly enveloping her in his presence, his masculine scent surrounding her. Evangeline''s heart raced as she felt the steady thump of his heartbeat and the warm whisper of his breath tickling her ear. Annoyed, she turned her head, only to identally brush her lips against his. Heat flooded her cheeks, and her mind reeled.


    What was Walter ying at? She had to stay strong, not get lost in the allure of the moment, especially after all the pain he had put her through.


    Walter, on the other hand, seemed unfazed, his eyes a calm sea of indifference. It was obvious he did not care. After all, she was not his beloved Julia.


    Biting back her frustration, Evangeline clenched her fists and maintained herposure.


    If she were not in the middle of a video call with her grandfather, she would have stormed out right then


    and there.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter, shameless as ever, casually draped an arm around her and talked to Cole as if nothing was amiss.


    "You must be Evie''s grandfather, yes? It''s so good to finally meet you! Evie has told me so much about you, and I''ve been looking forward to visiting. We were just talking abouting to see you tomorrow," On the screen, Cole looked nothing like the country farmer the rumors painted him to be. d in a soft yellow shirt, his kind face and elegant presence were framed by a backdrop of books on a ssic bookshell.


    Walter was meeting Cole for the first time, but Cole had seen his granddaughter''s husband in photos.


    Seeing the couple together, looking so well-


    matched, Cole''s smile grew. The sight seemed to have uplifted him. "When Evie mentioned marriage out of the blue, I hadn''t met you and was a bit worried. However, seeing how close you two are, I feel much at ease. Come over tomorrow, and I''ll give you the wedding gif "You shouldn''t worry about gifts, Grandpa. It''s our job to bring them to you," said Evangeline with a yful pout. She was on the brink of leaving Walter, and she was not about to let him score any points then.


    "Haha, I just love it when we all get together. It''s you two this time, but next time, you better bring me a great-grandkid!" He chuckled.


    "Of course, Grandpa," said Walter, staring tenderly at Evangeline''s silky ck hair, his eyes filled with unspoken thoughts.


    Beneath the table, out of sight, Evangeline pinched Walter''s thigh hard. She shot him a fierce look that could have frozenva. 1


    The nerve of him! As if she would ever want kids with him!


    Walter gasped, the pain cutting through any pretense, and he caught her hand, pinning it to the table." That''s quite the grip. Didn''t anyone tell you some ces are off-limits?"


    His voice was a low rumble, his eyes glinting with a dark allure.


    Evangeline''s face flushed with anger and the struggle to free herself. "Spouting nonsense, are we?" she


    hissed.


    "What nonsense?" he shot back.


    To anyone watching, they were the picture of a couple deeply in love.


    Cole watched the scene unfold, feeling that something was off. "What''s this about nonsense, Walter? You two have been avoiding kids? Evie, don''t tell me it''s you who''s not interested?" Evangeline mped her mouth shut, her lips pressed into a thin line. How could she even begin to exin?


    ming Walter would reveal their issues. Admitting her reluctance would only make her the bad guy.


    Before she could say a word, Walter jumped in with his usual charm. "Grandpa, Evie''s still got plenty of time. I just wanted her to have a bit more fun before we settled down, so we weren''t rushing into anything. "How could you not rush?"


    "Don''t worry, Grandpa. You''ll be hearing great news from me soon."


    Evangeline kept her cool, worried that if her grandfather and Walter kept at it, things would spiral into an argument with no way back. (1)


    Cole chuckled at her words. "Is that so? Well, I''ll be eagerly waiting!"


    "Time to rest up, Grandpa. You need your sleep!"


    With that, Evangeline ended the call and shoved Walter aside. "You did that on purpose, didn''t you, Walter?


    Walter stumbled back, his stance rxed and easy, yet his dark eyes gleamed intensely.


    He remained unppable, casually fixing the tie she had just rumpled. "What did I do? I was just showing proper respect to an elder, that''s all."


    Evangeline ignored the heat flushing her ears, too annoyed to engage with him. She rose from the couch and strode out of the study without a backward nce.


    Her heels clicked decisively against the floor, each step radiating her fierce desire to escape Walter''s presence and get some fresh air.


    Walter was left without so much as a parting look.


    His expression hardened, and he yanked at his tie, determined to follow her.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 13

    Before Water could follow Evangeline, however, Trey called out to him,


    "Hold it right there, boy f''ve got a bone to pick with your


    Walter stopped and leaned against the door frame, though he looked a bit pale. "What''s up?


    "What''s with the scow? if it wasn''t for my quick thinking, do you think you''d have been able to keep Evie around? You don''t even know what her grandpa looks like. Some husband you are!"


    "I don''t need your advice, and frankly, I don''t care to know," Walter snapped back, his frown deepening and a coldness creeping into his gaze


    "Go on, keep ying the tough guy Ewe''s poured her heart into this family, and you? You''ve been nothing but a headache. I want that mother and daughter gone from downstairs, and don''t you dare bring me more problems in the new year? Walter''s lips were a tight line, his face any mack. Then, with a crease in his brow, he asked, "You''re hiding something about Evangeline''s grandpa from me aren''t you


    They had always and the was just a simple countryman but the man as the wides had themanding aure and authority of someone with power, a true gentleman that did not look like any countryman he had heard of


    Clearly, Trey and Ewangelme kay some secrets from Ti��n


    Trey, cod as a cumumber in his armchair, Raunted hum, Now you curious? Where was this interest before? Three years of manage and you''re cludes adout war''s family Maybe you should be asking yourself why graille sum auking me? Water''s face tumet to stone, and he was on the verge of waking out


    They watched him go fustration written all was sum. The done all I can for you, and don''t forget that you promised to wist Evie''s grandfather Kamp your promo Sort be a no show and embarrass me."


    Walter''s scowl deepened, and he snippet, Yam on top of ver


    The door mmed befund Sum with a resounding Creol


    The brooding Evangeline went back to their bedroom. She was ready to pack up her life in that ce. it was water''s old room, but even after three years of manage, he never once stayed


    She had tried to make a home, Sut she was always done. She was done with the act


    She started packing her things, ready to leave the fore she had made quer thest three years. Then, out of the blus, a chilly resonant voice echoed from being her


    "What are you up to?


    Evangeline jumped her heart skipping a beat When she spun, Waiter''s stem, shadowedface met her


    She quickly collected herself "Just what looks like en packing up to get out of here," Evangeline


    reded her eyes cast as she contrued to til her case


    "And what exactly are you packing? Isn''t everything here property of the Gordons?" Walter lounged against the wall, arms folded, watching her with dark amusement, his whole presence radiating an aloof chill.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline had slipped into a sleek ck dress that hugged her curves. The simple yet elegant ck made an irresistibly enticing silhouette, almost taboo in its appeal. Her scent lingered in the air.


    At Walter''s words, a wave of annoyance shed across her striking features, and she retorted with a detachedugh. "Take a good look-all I''m taking is mine."


    "Oh? That porcin doll you''re so fond of was a souvenir from Grandpa''s travels to Msiania."


    Fuming, Evangeline pulled out the doll. It was a keepsake from Trey, meant to be a cherished memory, but she decided against it. She wanted no more ties with Walter.


    "And that rare green leather book in your suitcase, a priceless collector''s item, straight from the Gordon family''s private collection."


    "Grandpa gave those to me," Evangeline shot back, ring at him.


    "He gave them to his granddaughter-inw. Are you iming that title?"


    Evangeline''s lips pressed into a thin line, a silent admission.


    With a mocking sneer, Walter stooped and began to fling her neatly folded clothes out of the suitcase, one by one.


    "These items here, and that one-I recall they were all bought with the Gordon family''s money. What makes you think you can just walk off with them?"


    "Walter, surely you''re not going to make a fuss over a few worn-out clothes?" Evangeline could not help butugh, abandoning her packing to arch an eyebrow at him with a smirk.


    Walter towered over her, his features a mix ofid-back elegance and an icy aloofness that seemed to push everyone away. "Oh, I care," he said pointedly. "The shoes you''re wearing, the clothes, the jewelry, the bags- it''s all Gordon family property. You''re not leaving here with anything."


    His words were a clear dare: She was free to leave, but she would have to do it without a stitch on.


    Evangeline stepped up to the challenge defiantly. "So, I''m supposed to leave my used things behind? nning to save them for Julia, are you?


    "Oh, let me guess, I''m being the generous one now, clearing out space for you, and you''re not even grateful? Or maybe you want your precious Julia to second-hand my cast-offs? Wow, Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re not just a jerk but a cheapskate too!" Her sarcasm was as sharp as a knife.


    Walterughed as if she had told the funniest joke. He tilted her chin up, his words slicing through her pride mercilessly. "Let Julia use your hand-me-downs? You tter yourself. I''m stopping you from taking these things because I''d rather burn them or toss them out than let you have a sliver.


    "And Julia? She''ll only ever get the best with me, so don''t you worry your pretty little head about her."


    Both were seething, locked in a standoff, like two hedgehogs in a winter standoff. Even if they crossed


    000000


    paths, they could not avoid hurting each other.


    "Fine, fine, fine," Evangeline spat out each word, her voice hard as she emptied her suitcase, leaving behind only the two outfits she had brought when she first arrived years ago.


    "Take a good look, these are mine from before. The rest, you can use them as kindling to keep warm this


    winter."


    Evangeline was a fortress of defiance, every inch of her on edge.


    The tension in the room dropped to an icy low.


    Evangeline was the first to ever speak to him like that.


    She longed to be away from him, but Walter was not having any of it.


    In the tussle, he seized her wrist and pinned her against the wall, his breath a chilling contrast, burning against her ear.


    "Want to leave? Go ahead, after you peel off every piece of the Gordon family you''re wearing," he demanded, lifting her chin.


    Evangeline''s eyes zed with scorn, unyielding. "Walter, do you hear yourself? Your sweetheart''s just downstairs. You really want me to strip right now?"


    It was more than a challenge, it was a humiliation.


    Was this because of the ps she had given Julia?


    Walter''s expression was frigid, his jaw set. "Yes! Strip. It''s what you''re good at, isn''t it?"


    Evangeline got the message, herugh frosty. "Alright, then let go."


    Walter did, his eyes never leaving her as she slowly unzipped her ck dress.


    The silky fabric whispered as it slid to the floor.


    Her pale skin was a vision of delicate beauty, her symmetrical thighs and the graceful curves of her body barely contained by the skimpy lingerie. With a defiant tilt of her chin, she was the picture of wounded pride. Ovee with anger, she scrunched up the skirt in her hands and flung it at Walter''s face. "Here, you can have it! Keep it for yourself!"


    She just could not bring herself to remove thest two pieces.


    Once done, she would open the door and walk out for good.


    At that moment, Walter was enveloped by her fragrance.


    Through the sheer fabric of the skirt, he could make out the glow of her skin, the gentle swell of her abdomen, her pretty navel, and the defined lines of her abdominal muscles.


    He watched as Evangeline turned to leave, her hand on the doorknob.


    Walter felt a surge of heat rush through him.


    Evangeline fully intended to walk out like that!


    34


    He grimly pulled the skirt from his head.


    He swiftly closed the gap between them. With a resounding thud, his palm hit the door, blocking her exit.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 14

    Chapter 14


    Walter''s hot breath cascaded down Evangeline''s neck, his chest pounding against her bare back.


    "So you''re just going to walk out? is streaking your thing now?


    She would rather go naked than stay?


    Evangeline fought back. "Let go! You''re the one who told me to undress, or do you think I should strip off thest two pieces as well?"


    She held back her feelings, her voice low and tense, "Walter, do you have any idea how despicable you


    are


    Walter''s face was drawn tight, the friction between them making him ufortable. He clenched his jaw and kept hisposure.


    Then, he picked up a trench coat from the pile of discarded clothes and draped it over her shoulders from


    behind.


    "Go ahead and leave if that''s what you want. Nobody''s stopping you. Once you''re out that door, though, you can forget about the Gordon family''s shares!"


    Evangeline turned, her fiery gaze zing beneath a tangle of hair. "Are you out of your mind? We''re getting a divorce and splitting assets. Those shares were a gift from Grandpa. Why on earth would I give them up? Let me make this crystal clear: I want everyst dime!" Walter''s expression turned to stone. "Fine, if that''s how you want it, we might as well be stuck with each other forever. You think you can use the Gordon fortune to bankroll some new guy? Dream on, Evangeline!


    With a surge of fury, Evangeline shoved Walter back, her neck arching gracefully. "We''ll just see about that. You don''t actually believe your hotshotwyers can take down James, do you?"


    The mere mention of James set off a wildfire inside Walter.


    He loomed over her, his eyes piercing through the darkness. "What''s going on between you and James?"


    "Take a wild guess," she shot back.


    Walter''s voice was icy, each word seemingly slicing through the air. "He never handles divorce cases. Why would hee down from his high horse for you? And for him to throw money at you without a second thought... Are you two...?"


    Before Evangeline could storm out, Walter''s grip tightened around her waist. However, in a sh, his face contorted in pain.


    Oof!


    Evangeline''s metal-tipped heel had found its mark, and though her own toe throbbed, Walter''s pain was surely worse. "Jerk!" She kicked him off, snatched her suitcase, and stormed out.


    She must have been blind to fall for a man like him-seemingly upright, dripping with wealth and charm,


    yet beneath it all, the worst kind of scoundrel.


    No one in Halcyonia had ever dared treat her that way


    If Evangeline even thought about looking back, she would not be herself.


    Back in the living room below, Julia had not left yet.


    Aria was all smiles, holding Julia''s hand, growing fonder by the second.


    The young woman before her would make such a perfect daughter-inw. She was a vision of beauty, with a gentle nature, well-read and polite-a stark contrast to that coarse vige woman who could not hold a candle to her, always ready with a sharp tongue. Together, they looked like a true family. (1


    Julia''s mother, Lydia, spotted Evangeline descending the stairs, suitcase in tow, draped in a coat. The flush on Evangeline''s cheeks was too bright, her hair a tousled mess, and her mood was clearly off.


    Lydia''s face clouded over, and with a biting toneced with mock concern, she said, "Oh, look who''sing down. Evie, you look terrible, like you''re on the verge of tears."


    Her words dripped with false pity, but the scorn and glee on her face were as in as day. (1)


    Evangeline did not give her the time of day. Lydia and her daughter Julia were nothing but a sickening pair.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Lydia, however, could not stand Evangeline''s air of superiority.


    Ever since she had married into the Rearden family, Evangeline had always ignored her. Despite being cast out from the Gordons, she strutted around like a proud swan. Why should she, a simple country girl, act so high and mighty? Her daughter, Julis was the one who deserved to be seen as the graceful swan!


    Lydia, feeling snubbed, refused to back down. "Evie, did you and Walter split up? It''s no big deal if Walter doesn''t want you anymore. After all, you''re a Rearden. Why don''t you return to the Reardens'' with meter? Evangeline''s path was blocked, and she found herself face to face with Lydia, who was clearly enjoying the little performance.


    As Lydia prattled on, she paused to twirl a lock of her artificially curled hair. "Oh, Evie, silly me, I totally spaced on telling you-Julia''s taken over your old room. Our ce isn''t exactly sprawling, and we''ve got to have space for the nanny. 1 "But hey, if you''re thinking of crashing here, I can spruce up the storage room for you. No windows, but hey, it''s roomy. A pcepared to your grandpa''s rustic digs, I bet."


    The insult was so naked, so raw, Evangeline''s fingers itched to gag Lydia with her suitcase. Regardless, she kept her cool.


    Her expression was frosty as she towered over Lydia. "Cut the ''mom'' act, you home-wrecker. Who do you think you are? And just so we''re clear, I''ve cut ties with the Reardens. Whatever my mom left behind, I''ll be able to pick it up soon. 2/4


    "Oh, and that house you''re squatting in? That''s my mom''s legacy. You''ve got a week to clear out. If you don''t, well, you''ve been warned."


    She had swallowed her anger before, all for Walter''s sake, and to spare her grandfather the heartache of her mother''s messy legacy. However, she was done keeping it all in. Done with all of it.


    Julia, sensing the storm brewing, stepped forward with a quiver in her voice, "Mom, let''s not get Evie riled up. Also, you can''t talk to mom like that. We''re family, after all. If it''s bothering you, just take my room, okay?" Evangeline cackled, her gaze dripping with contempt as she eyed the p mark on Julia''s face. "Zip it, Julia. Did those ps not sting enough? And since you''ve put yourself in the spotlight, let me give you a little heads- up. Don''t get ahead of yourself. Even if I''m over ying house with the Gordons, you''re not even in the running."


    "What are you implying?" Julia''s voice trembled, tears welling up and reddening her eyes as she stepped


    closer,


    However, as she drew near, she noticed the nothingness beneath Evangeline''s coat. She also took in the disheveled state of Evangeline''s attire and that alluring look in her eyes.


    Walter was upstairs, too.


    What on earth had just happened?


    Evangeline''s gaze met hers, her red lips parting as if to crush Julia''s dreams. "Even if Walter can''t resist you, you''ll only ever be his dirty little secret. A child born from an affair will always be kept in the dark!" "What are you trying to pull?" Julia''s heart raced, reaching out to grab her.


    Evangeline''s frown deepened, her coat barely on as she shrugged off Julia''s grasp. She was eager to


    leave.


    "You''ll see soon enough!"


    As Julia stood there, dumbstruck, Evangeline turned away apathetically and descended the stairs. She carried herself with a pride that seemed to dismiss everyone around her as beneath her notice.


    As Evangeline made her exit, suitcase in tow, Aria could not help but feel a sense of satisfaction. She approached Julia with aforting smile. "Don''t worry about Evangeline. She''s always been too full of herself. Once she''s out of the Gordon family, she''ll have nothing be


    "You, Julia, are the one we want. With me by your side, you''re the only one who could be the future Mrs. Walter Gordon. Evangeline has no say in it, and I''ll rest easy knowing my son Walter has someone as attentive as you to look after him."


    "Exactly, Julia," Lydia chimed in, nodding vigorously and shooting Julia an encouraging nce." Evangeline and Walter are through. He''s got to be in a rough spot right now. Why don''t you go up and


    check on him?"


    "Mdm. Gordon," said Julia, her voiceced with urgency. She was eager to go upstairs, to find out what had transpired there just moments before. Chapter 14


    "Go ahead, Julia. Help talk some sense into him. I''d be grateful," Aria urged her on.


    With Aria''s blessing, Julia gathered her skirt and hurried up the stairs.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 15

    Chapter 15


    The bedroom door stood closed before Julia, She knocked tentatively, only to be met with Walter''s gruff voice from within.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ""Leave me alone."


    The rebuff startled Julia, but she did not give up. "Walt, it''s me, Julia. Can Ie in?"


    Her voice was a soft whisper in the tense silence.


    Inside, Walter broodingly sat on the couch with a cigarette dangling from his lips. He was the picture of brooding, his eyes fixed on the window where he hadst seen Evangeline''s retreating figure. No answer came.


    With a deep breath, Julia smoothed her skirt and pushed the door open.


    Chaos greeted her. The bedroom was in disarray, Evangeline''s clothes strewn about as if in the wake of a storm. Walter lounged on the couch by the window, his profile a mask of icy detachment.


    He was the epitome of allure, his very presence a siren call of raw maism that kept others at bay-a trait she found utterly captivating.


    However, as she stepped forward, Walter''s gaze snapped to her. His voice was a low rumble, quiet yet the frown creasing his forehead was a clear sign of his annoyance. "I won''t repeat myself. Leave!" Julia froze.


    It made no sense. Walter despised that vixen Evangeline, did he not? Why did her leaving throw him into such a stormy mood, enough tosh out at her?


    Her eyes did not deceive her. There, beside Walter,y the skirt Evangeline had worn. Draped over the couch, grazing his pants-intimacy she had longed for but never reached.


    It was as if she had never fit in, no matter how hard she tried.


    However, she knew Walter too well-his temper, his coldness. Anyone who crossed his bottom line might never get another chance to approach him.


    She would not irritate him. Evangeline and Walter were on the brink of divorce, after all.


    What good did it do Evangeline to y the Gordon family''sdy for three years? Walter neverid a finger on her.


    Julia''s time woulde. She would be the queen of that domain soon enough.


    Bitter thoughts swirled in her head, but when she spoke, her tone was soft and slightly aggrieved, with tears welling up in her eyes.


    "I''m sorry, Walt. I''ll leave you be. However, if you ever need to talk, I''m here for you, always."


    With no reply from him, Julia clenched her jaw and walked away, her heart heavy with reluctance.


    Walter''s face was a mask of tension, his whole demeanor screamed ''back off. The pain had ebbed away, leaving only the icy glint in his eyes. Chapter 15


    He could not believe Evangeline had hit him.


    The cigarette burned down to the filter, but the dull ache lingered, along with her skirt discarded on the


    floor.


    Her defiant exit reyed in his head, the memory of her stripping down before him.


    He could not even pinpoint where it hurt the most.


    His mood soured further when Caden''s call came in. "You sound like you''re in a bad mood. Catch your in the act, did you?"


    "I''m fine, hanging up now."


    "Wait, wait, wait! How about a drink to drown your sorrows? Let me help you out, man."


    ""Where at?" "Our spot."


    girt


    Meanwhile, Evangeline, after storming out of the Gordons'', did not take her motorcyle since she had luggage. Driving was a good call, especially since she was practically wearing nothing underneath. She shuddered at the thought of walking like that. Remembering how he demanded she strip, she wanted to w his eyes out.


    She used to undress for him willingly, countless times, all to entice him to have his child. However, he never cared to look.


    In a twist of fate, he had used it to shame her mere minutes ago. Even thinking about the pain on Walter''s face did not satisfy her.


    She wished her kick had crippled him, so he could not chase after other women.


    She did not want it, but she also could not let Julia have it for free, could she?


    Walter was her past obsession. It was time to move on.


    She was about to inform her old bodyguard of her return when her best friend, Roslyn Shaw, rang her up.


    Back when Evangeline spent her days in the countryside with her grandfather, she bumped into Roslyn, a city girl looking for a taste of farm life. They clicked instantly, their kindred spirits weaving a friendship strong enough to share every secret. Years rolled by. Evangeline tied the knot, and Roslyn''s voice soared to stardom, her songs ying in every home. Despite their different paths, their bond never wavered, not even once.


    X

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 16

    Chapter 16


    +25 BCAWS


    Before Evangeline could get a word in, Roslyn''s voice crackled through the phone, fiery and fierce.


    "Last night''s drama? I''ve heard it all. That jerk Walter has quite the audacity, alright! You''re about to kick him to the curb, and he''s got the nerve to say you can''t see other guys? The nerve!"


    Roslyn''s tirade against Walter was relentless, and she barely paused for air. "Evie, don''t waste your tears on that loser. The world''s full of decent guys. So what if you want to date a younger guy? If Walter''s got a problem with it, we''ll just find you a whole lineup!" That might be overkill, thought Evangeline. Nevertheless, the rant did take the edge off her mood.


    Without giving Evangeline a chance to chime in, Roslyn barreled on. "Where are you? Leave tonight to me. I''m throwing you a singles bash. Sure, finding someone richer or hotter than Walter might be tough, but there''s a sea of guys who are sweeter and know how to treat a woman right. Be at Kronovia Royale Pub at eight, and let''s swing open the doors to your new life.''


    The line went dead, Evangeline shook her head, a smile tugging at her lips. ssic Roslyn-if she was not ready by seven, Roslyn''s car would be thundering outside, ready to whisk her away.


    A drink to toast to her fresh start, huh? Why not?


    After her marriage to Walter, she had yed the part of the perfectdy of the Gordon household, and her days as the queen of the club scene had be a distant memory.


    Evangeline''s lips, painted a bold red, curled into a slight smile as she smoothly turned the wheel, her car cutting through the night toward the illustrious Kronovia Royale Pub.


    As darkness fell, Kronovia Royale Pub reigned as the grandest and most opulent bar in the north,


    unrivaled in its splendor.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Roslyn came from a family of sessful merchants with deep pockets, so a ce like that was nothing more than a light drizzle to her.


    The bar was teeming with patrons. Roslyn, in a sultry wine-red dress with delicate straps, effortlessly showcased her stunning figure, her bare back ented with a yful silk bow, blending allure with a dash of whimsy. She was the center of attention, nked by attractive men and women, like a moon circled by stars.


    Roslyn''s bubbly personality shone through, especially after a few drinks. A bit buzzed, she sang praises for


    the lyricist behind her sess.


    "Listen up, my friend is an absolute genius. She''s got talent to spare and wrote all my chart-


    toppers! I''m introducing her to you guys today. Too bad she got yed by a total jerk. Make sure you give her a warm wee! Show her that there''s still real kindness in the world. Now, let''s raise a ss to that!" Roslyn''s smash hits had always been released anonymously, leaving countless others moring to find the elusive genius behind the words. Today, to everyone''s delight, Roslyn was finally ready to reveal the identity of that enigmatic lyricist. The room buzzed with Roslyn''s friends from the entertainment industry, all hoping to coborate with the mysterious wordsmith. After all, a song penned by her might just skyrocket them to stardom across the


    country.


    "Look who''s here! Evie, over here!" Roslyn called out, spotting Evangeline making her entrance. Evangeline, with her towering height and a dark blue gown glittering with rhinestones, cut a striking figure that made her the center of attention, oozing mor and an aristocratic charm.


    In a world filled with beauties and stars, she was in a league of her own.


    Gone was the facade of meekness she once wore. Standing before them was the Foster family''s very own princess, Evangeline, back after a long absence.


    It was no surprise that Roslyn, no stranger to thepany of the good-looking and the morous, waspletely taken by Evangeline''s presence. The bar fell into a hush as Evangeline''s dazzling arrival turned heads.


    Roslyn had only hinted at her enigmatic songwriting partner, but nobody imagined she would be such a knockout,


    With a quick jog, Roslyn reached Evangeline and looped her arm through hers, the pair instantly bing the crowning jewel of the Kronovia Royale Pub.


    As Roslyn introduced Evangeline around, the crowd of party veterans weed her warmly. Evangeline mingled with ease, encircled by a bevy of charming young men, theirughter echoing over clinking sses and yful banter. Unbeknownst to the revelers, Walter was ensconced in a plush private room with Caden.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 17

    Chapter 17


    Julia, having heard of Walter''s location, hurried to the pub with her friends in tow. She was Walter''s ex-girlfriend, and their recent reunion had rekindled old mes.


    She could not let another opportunity slip through her fingers, not after the one she missed with the Gordons. She had taken extra care with her appearance, donning a white, flower-dotted dress that red like a pristine lotus, a stark contrast to the pub''s vibe. "Check out thedy in red over there. Isn''t that Roslyn, the pop queen?" a friend whispered to Julia, nodding toward the morous figure in the distance.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    It was difficult not to notice Roslyn, surrounded by a dazzling entourage of gorgeous men and women.


    "Why is she everywhere, haunting us like a bad penny?" Julia muttered, spotting Evangeline sipping drinks with Roslyn.


    "Isn''t that your sister Evangeline with Roslyn?" someone asked, recognizing her. "How on earth is she rubbing elbows with a star like Roslyn? She''s just a country girl, isn''t she?"


    Julia just shook her head, tooking lost. "She''s probably after an autograph," she guessed. 1


    "Oh, the things people do for a signature, even cozying up at the bar," scoffed one of Julia''s friends.


    After Walter''s grand New Year''s Eve gesture with the fireworks and the cruise ship, everyone was convinced Julia was on the fast track to bing Mrs. Walter Gordon.


    Thus, Julia had her own fan club, with people treating her like she was the center of the universe. When the group spotted her, they buzzed over to her, eager to amuse Julia, like flies drawn to honey.


    Julia yed the part of the innocent bystander, watching the scene with feigned demureness.


    "Well, if it isn''t the woman Walter Gordon dumped. What''s wrong? Couldn''t snag a man, so you''re here hunting for some fresh meat?" taunted one of Julia''s entourage with a sneer.


    Their jeering broke the cheerful atmosphere around Evangeline and her friends, casting a shadow over their spirits.


    "Who invited this party crasher? Seriously, are we just letting anyone in these days?" Roslyn''s mood soured as she took a delicate sip of her red wine, herugh tinged with scorn.


    "Big deal if you''re tough. You''re still tossed aside like an old pair of shoes, not even fit to carry Mr. Walter Gordon''s. Julia is about to take over as the head of the Gordon family, and you? You''re nothing but a barfly, keeping menpany with their drinks. I guess that beats working the fields, huh?" The crowd around Julia burst intoughter at the remark.


    "Ruby, that''s not nice," Julia chided softly, tugging at the sleeve of the woman who had spoken, her voice trembling like a meek bunny.


    However, then, in a sharp turn, the ''meek bunny'' added, "My sister is probably just lonely.",


    Evangeline remained unfazed by the insult. She was not about to stoop to their level. However, Roslyn, fiercely protective of her friend, was ready to throw punches until Evangeline grabbed her arm to stop her.


    country.


    "Look who''s here! Evie, over here!" Roslyn called out, spotting Evangeline making her entrance. Evangeline, with her towering height and a dark blue gown glittering with rhinestones, cut a striking figure that made her the center of attention, oozing mor and an aristocratic charm.


    In a world filled with beauties and stars, she was in a league of her own.


    Gone was the facade of meekness she once wore. Standing before them was the Foster family''s very own princess, Evangeline, back after a long absence.


    It was no surprise that Roslyn, no stranger to thepany of the good-looking and the morous, waspletely taken by Evangeline''s presence.


    The bar fell into a hush as Evangeline''s dazzling arrival turned heads.


    Roslyn had only hinted at her enigmatic songwriting partner, but nobody imagined she would be such a knockout,


    With a quick jog, Roslyn reached Evangeline and looped her arm through hers, the pair instantly bing the crowning jewel of the Kronovia Royale Pub.


    As Roslyn introduced Evangeline around, the crowd of party veterans weed her warmly. Evangeline mingled with ease, encircled by a bevy of charming young men, theirughter echoing over clinking sses and yful banter. Unbeknownst to the revelers, Walter was ensconced in a plush private room with Caden.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 18

    Chapter 18


    The two sides were a whirlwind of flying hair and ripped clothing, the fight heating up by the second. Evangeline, emboldened by the booze, dove into the fray. Roslyn had her back, and she was not about to let her down. Themotion in the bar drew a crowd of rubberneckers in no time.


    While bar fights and disputes weremon, they were rare at Kronovia Royale Pub. After all, it attracted influential figures, and any altercation there was scrutinized for its potential repercussions.


    Caden had nned aid-back evening with Walter, hoping to enjoy some drinks and thepany of lovelydies, pouring out their hearts. However, Walter was more interested in sulking over his drink, a total killjoy. The other side of the hall was in utter disarray. Word had it that the celebrity Roslyn was in a tussle, and Caden could not resist the urge to check it out.


    He was back before long.


    "Snap out of it, yo! The brawl over there involves Evie-Baby and your so-called new me." Caden jostled the nearly sloshed Walter.


    Walter''s frown deepened. "Say what now?"


    "Evangeline and Julia are in the thick of it!" blurted Caden, grabbing Walter''s drink.


    Walter shook off the fog of alcohol, and they both made their way to the epicenter of the action. The bar''s bouncers had already broken up the fight.


    Most of thebatants were women, all looking worse for wear. Wigs and padding littered the floor, and their faces bore the battle scars of scratches and shoe prints. It was quite the show.


    Evangeline and Roslyn emerged as the clear winners, each having taken on three opponents with little more than a hair out of ce.


    Julia, who had hoped to stir up trouble and watch the chaos unfold, was left with her hair in total disarray and her face swollen from ps. She would likely never wear white again, not after it was stamped with footprints.


    "Ugh! How dare you hit me! You''ll regret this," Ruby wailed, clutching her nose that resembled a swollen snout. "Do you have any idea who my uncle is?!"


    "I couldn''t care less about your uncle. Keep it up, and I''ll p you again!" Roslyn snapped, her anger ring. She had been the one to give Ruby the hardest time.


    Evangeline almost felt bad for continuing the fight.


    If security had not intervened, Roslyn would have been at it again, her ferocity sending Ruby stumbling backward in fear.


    "You''ll see! I''m calling the cops on all of you bitches," Ruby cried, fumbling with her phone.


    Julia was humiliated like never before. She was itching to see Evangeline behind bars, and with others handling her dirty work, she was over the moon. Chapter 18


    She wanted nothing more than to see Evangeline shamed.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    However, then, she spotted a man approaching, his frown andmanding stride making him the center of everyone''s attention.


    She froze.


    Walter hade to her rescuel


    She immediately shifted into the role of the wronged, barely holding herself together, tears streaming down her face.


    "Evangeline, what on earth are you up to now?"


    Walter stood tall and imposing, his darkened expression taking in the ridiculous scene, casting a shadow over the already tense atmosphere.


    The murmurs in the crowd hushed as Walter stepped into view. His chiseled features, familiar from countless news articles and magazine covers, belonged to the heir of the prestigious Gordon Group from the South, a name that graced the global Forbes ranking list. Under the cloak of night, his striking presence and the air of an aristocrat who wore his privilege with an easy grace. He seemed even more enigmatic, drawing gasps of awe.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 19

    Chapter 19


    Julia''s friends, bolstered by Walter''s arrival, found a renewed sense of confidence.


    Evangeline remained silent.


    "Walt!" Julia''s voice dripped with sweetness as she preempted any other conversation. She ran her fingers through her hair, and tears streamed down her face in gratitude for her timely rescue.


    "I don''t know what I''ve done wrong, but my sister and her friends just attacked us. Look at my face-it''s all swollen."


    To be attacked twice in one day...


    This time, away from the Gordon estate, Julia was determined not to let Evangeline get away with it.


    Julia''s tears were a portrait of distress, though the p marks on her face lent a touch of the absurd to her plight.


    Walter stared at Julia''s bruised cheek before ring at Evangeline icily.


    It was bad enough Evangeline had struck him, but she was even cavorting with young men too? They were not even divorced yet, and she was already so impatient!


    Taking in her wless makeup and the sultry dress that was a far cry from anything he had seen her in before, Walter felt an inexplicable surge of irritation.


    He confronted her head-on.


    "Already bringing shame to the Gordon name before the ink on our divorce papers is dry? Inciting a brawl, attacking your own sister?" Walter''s voice was a low growl, his eyes dark with usation. Hearing Walter''s words, Julia''s lips trembled, and she seemed on the verge of copse, her body leaning heavily into Walter''s embrace.


    Instead of pushing her away, Walter steadied her with his arms.


    Evangeline watched with an icy stare as Walter fussed over his precious Julia, her own heart still as stone. She stood her ground, poised as she locked eyes with him.


    "You prattle on about the Gordon family''s honor, but when you were whispering sweet nothings to Julia on that cruise, did you spare a thought for your marriage vows or the Gordon family''s reputation?" Evangeline''s voice was calm, her demeanor unruffled as she threw the words back at him.


    The air crackled with tension, like the calm before a storm.


    Walter''s presence was overwhelming, and no one dared to challenge him.


    Roslyn, seething with anger, wanted to shield her from the confrontation.


    The man Evangeline had adored was defending his lover for all to see! Evangeline''s heart must have shattered into pieces.


    However, Evangeline gave Roslyn a slight shake of her head. That was her battle to fight with Walter, and she needed no one''s assistance.


    *25 BONUS


    Walter chuckled in scorn, his dark eyes a mystery in the shadows. "You knew Julia was off-limits, yet you still went after her?" "What''s done is done. Or are you looking for payback? Evangeline lifted her chin defiantly as if daring him.


    However, he did not spare her a nce. "I won''t touch you. I''ll let the police handle this."


    Evangeline wanted a divorce, did she not? Well, she was about to learn what life was like without the Gordon family''s shield.


    Ruby, Julia''s right-hand girl who had just dialed 911, piped up with a bold promise, "Don''t worry, Mr. Walter Gordon. I''ve already alerted the cops. She had the nerve to hit me and Julia, but my uncle will handle her." The Garside family and her uncle, Jay Garside, all relied on Walter. It only made sense she would make sure things went smoothly for Walter.


    With that in mind, Walter remained silent and scooped Julia up in his arms. He strode out without looking


    back.


    Julia''s friends gasped in disbelief.


    Caden reached out to stop Walter but could not, leaving him no choice but to follow.


    Julia could not hide her triumph, but nobody caught the taunting re she shot Evangeline.


    The room echoed with jeers. Everyone was poking fun at Evangeline.


    However, Evangeline justughed it off, nonchntly arching an eyebrow before turning to Roslyn. "The party poopers are gone. Let''s keep the drinksing.


    She had vowed to move on from everything, but seeing Walter''s dismissive look, watching him defend Julia and even ready to have her sent to the police station-it still tore at her heart. Roslyn gazed at her, concerned. "Evie, you okay? Walter''s being a real monster! How could he treat you like that? I just..."


    She wanted to tear him apart.


    "It''s fine, really. If he''s blind enough to fall for Julia, that''s his loss. I''m not about to hang my hopes on that twisted branch. The world''s too amazing out there... right?"


    With Walter supporting her, Ruby grew bolder, strutting around with newfound swagger.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "If you want to keep living the good life, you better not mess with Julia, or you''ll be getting a taste of life behind bars! Mr. Walter Gordon made it clear that he wants me to avenge Julia rightfully!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 20

    Chapter 20


    Just then, the wail of police sirens pierced the air outside.


    Evangelineughed, standing amid the glow of neon lights that cut through the night.


    A fleeting look of loneliness crossed her face only when Walter had taken Julia away, leaving her fate to the cops. When she made her way to the station, however, she showed no fear.


    She looked tranquil, her eyes calm and kind as she faced Ruby, the woman across from her.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Pretty brave of you, calling the cops on me."


    "Ha! I''m not the only one


    who wants you locked up; Mr. Walter Gordon does too. You think you can hurt Julia and get away with it? A nobody from the sticks trying to outshine Julia? Youy a finger on her, and Mr. Walter Gordon will make sure you won''t know what hit you." "Alright, then. Remember what you said. Just don''t end up regretting them."


    That was when the police showed up.


    "Nobody''s leaving. Everyone here, you''re alling back to the station with me."


    Evangeline did not resist. She simply smiled at the officers and said, "Sure, I''lle along."


    "Hey! Evie, you don''t have to do this," Roslyn protested, shaking her head.


    If they knew who Evangeline was, no one would darey a finger on her.


    To think they could drag the Foster family''s darling princess to the station-


    they must have a death wish! However, Evangeline just shook her head and yfully raised an eyebrow. "I''ve got to go today! I''ll shoulder the me for this one. You guys keep the party going with the boys. I''ll be back before you know it!" Roslyn''s heart ached for Evangeline''s relentless spirit.


    Walter had demanded she report to the police station, and Evangeline had no real choice but toply. At that moment, Roslyn found herself worrying about the potential harm Ruby could cause en route to the police station, as well as in the police station itself. Ruby rolled her eyes. "Hrious. She thinks she''ll just pop in and out, but maybe she''ll disappear for good, huh?"


    This was her domain. She was determined to have Evangeline crying and begging for forgiveness. Before long. Evangeline and Ruby were escorted into the precinct.


    Ruby, all rxed, sipped her coffee and strolled over to the istion cell to see Evangeline. With a sneer, she taunted, "Look at you, all scared. This is where trash like you belongs. Fits you like a glove."


    Ruby, barely over her scrapes and still with an untreated nose, donned a mask just to revel in Evangeline''s misery. Roslyn was out of her league, but Evangeline, a simple country girl, was putty in her hands. Evangeline ignored her, which only made Ruby seethe. "You think you''re tough? You have no idea. My


    suncle nafs this joint with just one word from me, you could not here forever


    *29 BONUS


    "Maybe if you beg me now, i might just lock you up for a couple of years instead of life."


    Evangeline locked up her spurt undremmet oczing an effortless allure and presence, "It''s daylight, right? You''re dreaming at the wrong time, wit


    Ruby wasked by her groun


    She smugly retoriet. "We''ll see how long that pride acts Smile for me I''ll send it to your family members so your grandfather can trade some sweet potatoes tebal you out."


    With a smirk, the whippet sut her phone to capture Evangeline''s plight


    Tim just looking out for you Can''t make coas you''llgret," said Ewangeline in a haunting whisper


    "Are you threatening me? Bully aneret, has sense of Superionly growing an she saw Evangeline''s vexation. "You still tune you''er thedy of the house? et remind you? Without the Gordons, you''re a mady for Walton Cortion hus you Trapped here, and you can''t escape. "Box''t wory i post at about


    online, let everyone be the fate of someone who used shameful tricks to worm then way into the Sortions Swed


    "A pheasant cant be a phone by perching on a high trench, Remember, a pheasant will always be just that taumhed Buty Evangeine was seething with anger, even though she was on the verge of a divorce. She had always been mind of her reputation


    She stared at Ruby with a cial gaze. Each word she spoke wasced with a steely threat, "You''ll regret your actions today Ruby fell a stover fun down her spine at that piercing look

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 21

    Chapter 21


    However, Ruby quickly shook off the feeling of being overpowered by a woman from the countryside.


    "Alright, then! Let''s see how long you can keep that smug look on your face. Open the door," Ruby ordered, her pride ring like a peacock''s feathers. She was mortified that Evangeline''s stare had rattled her and was determined to show who was boss


    around there.


    Evangeline, weary and worn, was escorted by two hefty men.


    Roslyn was incapacitated, so it was up to Ruby to exact revenge for her friend Julia, to return the pain inflicted by Roslyn a thousand times over.


    She delivered a resounding p.


    Evangeline did not flinch. It was not that she could not dodge orcked the ability, she simply chose to let Ruby have her moment.


    She vowed to make them pay, to give back as good as she got, a thousand times over. However, her thoughts were a jumbled mess, haunted by the recent debacle at the bar.


    Pain scared her, yet Walter, upon arriving, did not even bother to ask if she was hurt. All he cared about was the Gordon family''s reputation. He scooped up the woman she loathed and left without a second nce. Maybe it was all in her head, that mess of her own making.


    Meanwhile, Roslyn had her own troubles to deal with.


    Evangeline forbade her from getting involved with her issues with Walter, and Roslyn knew Evangeline could handle it. However, despite Evangeline''s cool exterior, Roslyn sensed her friend was on the verge of breaking. She could not stand by and do nothing.


    After a moment''s hesitation, she called Walter. Evangeline was still his wife, for heaven''s sake, and he had the nerve to abandon her at the police station. The man was heartless!


    Walter answered the phone with a tone of clear annoyance. He knew who it was.


    He stood tall and imposing before the panoramic window, gazing down at the city lights. His eyes were a dark, fearsome abyss.


    "Walter, thanks to your cruelty, Evie has been taken to jail! How can you be so inhuman? Marrying you was the biggest mistake of her life!" Roslyn spat out furiously.


    Walter''s response was calm and detached, yet his irritation was palpable. "Roslyn."


    "Jerk! You''re doing this to Evie all because of Julia. You''ll live to regret it!"


    "Really? And did you think about the consequences when you and your boy toy caused that scene at the bar?" Walter''s voice was a dark growl, his eyes hidden beneath a fringe ofshes. Chapter 21


    Evangeline had felt a rush of joy after she walked away from the satisfaction of seeing her beg, not even for a single word.


    . She would not give him the


    "Wow, you''re bringing this up now, huh? Do you know why we did that? It''s because you''re useless, you


    clown! You know exactly how you''ve treated her. Just a heads you''d better get her now, or else..."Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "We''re all adults here. We need to think about the consequences," said Walter, his emotions roiling inside him as he pressed his lips into a thin line. "Unless she understands what she''s done wrong, a few days in lockup might do her some good." "Ugh! Walter, you jerk! Can''t you see that you''re-"


    Beep, beep, beep!


    Roslyn''s tirade was cut short as Walter hung up with a decisive click.


    It was not that she doubted Evangeline could handle herself. She just wanted to spare her any unnecessary pain.


    However, she never expected Walter to actually...


    In the president''s office of Strata King Group.


    Caden sensed that Walter was off.


    He approached him, concern etched on his face. "Look, Walter, I''m lost here. What''s this all about? You go from shielding Julia to ditching her and brooding over here?"


    Caden watched the man return to his seat on the leather sofa by the window, silently sipping his wine.


    "If there''s nothing else, you can go back."


    However, Caden stayed put. "Evangeline''s been taken to the station, you know. She''s bound to be at a disadvantage... You''re still married, doesn''t that bother you?"


    "She had the nerve to go to such lengths for a child, and now she can''t handle a night in jail?"


    "You''re doing this to teach her a lesson? You''re ticked off because she wants a divorce?" Caden asked. "What, I can''t be?"


    He was curious to see if she woulde crawling back to him.


    "You know, Walter, for a smart guy, you''re pretty clueless about feelings. You say you don''t want a divorce, yet you treat her like this! If you don''t want to split, why have you given her the cold shoulder for thest three years? That''s going to drive her away."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 22

    Chapter 22


    Just then, Walter''s phone rang. It was his assistant, Oscar. "Mr. Walter Gordon."


    "What is it? Did she change her mind?"


    "No. Mrs. Walter Gordon hasn''t caved in, nor has she called begging you, but someone else has stepped


    in."


    At the police station, in the holding cell.


    Ruby was not satisfied with just pping Evangeline''s face red. She was gearing up to kick her with her high heels when suddenly, she was sent flying several meters by a powerful kick from behind. The door flew open with a loud bang as a squad of imposing men in ck suits and sunsses stormed in from the shadowy hallway.


    Their intimidating presence silenced the room.


    "Ms. Evangeline."


    It was Wade Davis, Evangeline''s lifelong personal bodyguard, the one Evangeline had been waiting for.


    Evangeline was escorted to the break room, where many from the police force came to offer their apologies, including Ruby''s uncle.


    Meanwhile, Ruby, clueless about the turn of events, stood in their way, clutching her waist where the bodyguard had kicked her.


    "Uncle, why are you apologizing to her? She had her thugs start the fight at the bar, and they messed up my new nose job! And now this brute she brought with her has kicked me!


    "I''m going to press charges. Plus, she attacked Julia, and Mr. Walter Gordon won''t let her get away with it!


    "Uncle, you need to arrest these people, now!" demanded Ruby vengefully.


    Ruby''s uncle, Jay, glowered. His niece Ruby, that scatterbrained girl, was blissfully unaware of the chaos she had caused, strutting around the precinct using his name like a shield. She was digging him an early grave, and she did not even know it! "Ruby, for heaven''s sake, be quiet!" barked Jay.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Ruby was not the sharpest tool in the shed. It was as if all her smarts had gone to her chest, leaving none for her head. She was clueless about the storm brewing around her. 1


    She opened her mouth to speak again, but Jay was not about to let her dig their graves any deeper. He pped her, hard. Ruby''s nose, barely healed from herst visit to the hospital, skewed sideways once more.


    "Uncle," Ruby whimpered, clutching her bleeding nose, her head spinning.


    Jay had no patience for coddling Ruby. He turned to Evangeline apologetically and said, "I''m terribly sorry for myck of control over my subordinate, Ms. Rearden. Please ept this as a small gesture of apology. I beg for your understanding.


    "And don''t worry, I won''t let those who''ve wronged you get away with it. They''ll be dealt with, I assure you."


    Jay knew he could not mess with Walter. If he did not fix that mess... Well, his entire family might end up paying the ultimate price for Evangeline''s wrath.


    That family-shrouded in mystery and power-was known for their ruthlessness, their cold-bloodedness. To survive, Jay knew he had to adapt quickly to the unfolding drama.


    Evangeline nced at the ck card in Jay''s trembling hands and sneered, "You might as well save that for Ruby''s hospital bills."


    Jay''s heart sank. Evangeline''s refusal was a clear sign of her unforgiving stance.


    Ruby had really done it that time. He did not know which powerful family he had crossed, but the pressure was mounting. If he did not sort that out, and fast, the Garside family was done for. "You wretched witch! Who''s thetest guy you''ve charmed into rescuing you? You got me in trouble with my uncle, and now he''s beaten me. I swear, I''ll destroy that pretty face of yours."


    Ruby, always pampered, could not handle the slightest insult andpletely lost it. In a blind grabbed the steaming kettle and hurled it at Evangeline''s head.


    rage, she


    Evangeline''s bodyguards were not pushovers; they were seasoned veterans of the shadowy underworld. One swift kick added a new bruise to Ruby''s overly done-up face, and her shrieks echoed like a rabbit being ughtered. Jay, witnessing the disgrace his family member had be, was utterly deted. He lit a cigarette with trembling hands and began to stagger.


    Evangeline watched Ruby''s pitiful wailing from the floor, her energy replenished at this point. She sauntered over in her stilettos, her wlessplexion glowing in the light, a sight to behold. She crouched with a calcted smirk on her lips. "I warned you, you''d regret this!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 23

    Chapter 23


    Ruby tried to spit out curses, but Evangeline''s bodyguard was quick to silence her.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Think this is the end?" said Evangeline. "The real show''s just starting!"


    She rose to her feet and walked away with amanding stride. Before she left, however, she turned to her bodyguards. "Make sure she''s well taken care of!" "Absolutely, Ms. Evangeline."


    Ruby, mouth sealed, was on the verge of a breakdown.


    ''How dare you seek help, Evangeline! Who gave you the guts? Mr. Walter Gordon will never let this slide!'' screamed Ruby internally.


    After leaving the station, Evangeline was whisked away to the hospital for some minor bandaging. In the past, even a tiny scrape would have sent her into a dramatic frenzy at the hospital.


    For the past three years, the Foster family''s elite bodyguard team had been on call but never needed. However, the moment they returned to duty, they found Evangeline suffering such indignities. Wade was livid. He could not just stand by and do nothing.


    The Fosters were a force to be reckoned with in the South, wielding influence as easily as one might control the weather. To cross them was to invite fear.


    A formidable line of bodyguards, d in sharp suits and dark sunsses, stood outside the corridor. They were the epitome of uniformity and discipline, each a testament to the Foster family''s rigorous training. They were an intimidating sight, a sea of ck-d protectors.


    When someone inquired about the Garside family''s debacle, Wade could not hide his contempt. "The Garsides dared to harm Ms. Evangeline, darling of the Foster family, her maternal side, so grievously. They''ve worn out their wee in the capital. Off to Northern Montavia with them, to toil in the fields," he decreed.


    "Understood!"


    Meanwhile, after Evangeline''s release from custody, Ruby received another harsh lesson from Jay. Only when she was hauled back and the Garside family convened for an urgent family meeting did she grasp the severity of her actions. Evangeline was far from the simple country girl the rumors painted her to be. She had a powerful ally, a mysterious benefactor behind her. She had made an enemy that not even the Garsides could afford to


    cross.


    Even so, was there anyone more powerful than Walter?


    Unbelievable. Evangeline had sought thepany of another man behind Walter''s back.


    No matter. She had the formidable Walter Gordon in her corner.


    "Uncle, why are you afraid of what Evangeline might do? Mr. Walter Gordon instructed me to handle her!


    She just hurt someone who means a lot to Mr. Walter Gordon!"


    "You numbskull! You think you should just jump because Mr. Walter Gordon says so? She''s still the Gordon family''sdy, not yet divorced... You''re not currying favor with him when you mess with his girl; you''re crossing him! Get it?" Ruby could not ept it.


    Impossible.


    Walter siding with Evangeline? Not in a million years.


    She was in a full-blown panic, too frazzled to even think about the hospital, so she called Julia instead.


    Just yesterday, she stuck her neck out for Julia, and with Julia''s gentle heart, she was sure to lend a hand. If Walter stepped in, the Garside family would be out of the woods.


    Ruby took a deep breath, trying topose herself, and with her world spinning, she reached out to Julia.


    "Julia, you''ve got to help me." She spilled the beans about everything that went downst night, pleading


    with her to talk to Walter.


    Meanwhile, Julia had made it back home.


    She was frustrated that Walter had not escorted her home, and her jaw dropped when she heard Evangeline had waltzed out of the police station. When on earth did Evangeline manage to snag another guy?


    She had enough influence to not even blink at the Gordon family, while the Garside family was shaking in


    their boots.


    Nheless, that was the perfect chance for Walter to see that woman''s true face.


    She got Walter on the line andid it on thick, giving Ruby''s tale her own dramatic spin.


    There they were, in the dead of night.


    Walter had tracked down Evangeline''s whereabouts. After hanging up the phone outside her hospital, a fierce anger ignited within him.


    A rugged stranger, huh?


    Alright, then. She had lived up to his expectations, after all.


    His assistant, Oscar, delivered his findings with a grave expression, struggling to find the words. "Mr. Walter Gordon, regarding James'' identity you asked me to dig into, there''s a gap in his past three years. It''s as if someone wiped it clean, including everything about Evang "One thing is certain: they met in the Serenova, and this is the only photo I could find. It''s rare for anyone to slip through our in Halcyonia, so could James be..."


    Walter snatched the photo, his gaze fixed on Evangeline''s carefreeughter as she nestled in James''


    arms.


    A chilling darkness shed in his eyes.


    "It doesn''t matter who he is." The crimson tip of his cigarette glowed against the night, scattering the


    shadows in his gaze. "He''s too naive, thinking he can y this game. It''s time to end his little career adventure."


    With a flick of his cigarette, he set the photo aze. The red me died in his grasp.


    Oscar tensed up. "Understood. I''ll handle it."


    "And give the Garsides a nudge," added Walter.


    ""Will do."


    Deep into the night, Evangeliney awake in the solitude of her plush VIP hospital room. Restless, she scrolled through her friends'' updates only to find an unexpected post.


    Julia had shared a selfie on social media, d in a bathrobe with love bites marking her neck. Despite the bruises still visible on her face, she artfully draped her hair to one side, capturing a stunning no-makeup shot.


    The caption teased, [An unusual night with a special someone.]


    Alone tiey discarded behind her bed-a silent witness to the night''s earlier events. Everyone knew Walter had swept her off her feet, and the evidence was obvious.


    Evangeline was livid. She itched to yank Julia right out of the screen and give her a piece of her mind.


    A perfect match, those two scoundrels.


    Walter strode toward Evangeline''s hospital room, his long legs eating up the distance. Wade, the guard stationed outside, hesitated to block him. However, that was Walter, and Wade did not dare to cross him, Thus, Walter walked in without so much as a pause.


    He found Evangeline with a patch on her face to reduce swelling, his presence casting a chilling shadow." Quite the show you''ve got here. Are these all James'' people outside?" Dressed in a sleek ck coat, his tall frame filled the doorway as he looked down at her with a piercing


    gaze.


    The door mmed behind him, plunging the room into semi-darkness. The temperature might as well have dropped to zero.


    Evangeline had not expected the man who belonged in Julia''s bed to show up in her ward. She blinked, thinking she was seeing things. However, a nce at Walter''s lower body grounded her in reality. So, he was all talk, wrapping things up so swiftly with Julia. No wonder he did not want kids.


    Propped up against her pillows, Evangeline arched an eyebrow and delivered her verdict. "What''s it to you? Get out of my room, now!" Walter did not back down. His intense eyes seemed to wrap around her as he dered, "Alright, we''ll


    leave together."


    In the next instant, he scooped her up in his arms.


    "Hey! What are you doing? Put me down!" Evangeline


    "What am I doing, you ask? Well, I''m indulging you!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 24

    Chapter 24


    Evangeline never imagined Walter would show up at the hospital in the dead of night and act like a madman. Had Julia left him wanting?


    The memory of the night''s betrayal with Julia pierced her heart with an invisible needle, each thought of a suffocating sting.


    Evangeline bit Walter''s shoulder, her bite a desperate act of defiance.


    Walter gasped, the sharp pain a testament to her surprising strength. He had not even gotten over the kick she had delivered to his legst time, and she bit him.


    "Do you enjoy biting people?" Walter grunted, wincing.


    Evangeline felt a twinge of satisfaction seeing his usually stoic face twist in pain. "Put me down now, or I''ll call the guards!"


    Walter''s striking features were inches away as he firmly grasped her chin. "You''ve got two choices: One, I put you down and we show your grandpa your disheveled state. Two, keep quiet ande back with me."


    The mention of her grandpa silenced Evangeline''s struggle. Walter had found her Achilles'' heel. She did not want their issues aired in front of her grandpa.


    Her heart seethed with resentment, but she fell silent, refusing to meet his gaze.


    Walter carried her, and for the first time, she was as docile as a little kitten in his arms.


    His expression was icy, devoid of warmth, though inside, a fire raged, like kindling ready to ignite.


    Walter took Evangeline back to their house, to the bedroom they shared as a married couple. He ced her on the master bed and, with a stern expression, stripped off her shoes and socks.


    "What are you doing?"


    The image of Walter''s tie on Julia''s bed shed in her mind, and she instinctively jerked her foot away. Please, keep your distance. You disgust me!"


    10


    Walter''s fury red as he pressed Evangeline beneath him, his cool scent and hot breath assaulting her senses like venom. "You think you''re pure with other men? I''d love to see just how pristine you really are!" His eyes were deep pools of darkness, and the woman squirr him only fueled his fire. Walter''s gaze-wild and caged-sent shivers of fear through Evangeline.


    She felt his strong hands pinning her arms, ripping at her dress. A terrifying sense of powerlessness washed over her as if she were plummeting into an abyss. His eyes, hungry and beautiful, threatened to


    consume her whole.


    "What''s your n? Not content with the chaos you''ve stirred up, ready to strike me for your darling?" Evangeline pushed against his chest, her eyes zing with anger.


    Walter''s fingers mped onto her face, his dark gaze prowling over her features. "Who did this to you?" "Mind your own business! Get off!"


    Evangeline used to desperately want Walter''s children, but he would not even spare her a nce.


    What did he want with her, fresh from Julia''s bed? To settle scores?


    She missed the storm brewing in Walter''s handsome face as he surveyed her injuries, the turmoil in his eyes dark and foreboding


    Just then, a phone rang. It was Julia calling.


    Evangeline epted the call in front of Walter, and Julia''s voice burst through the moment the call connected.


    "Aren''t you going too far? Yesterday''s beating wasn''t enough, now you''ve gone and had someone attack Ruby''s family. You''re terrifying!"


    "Is that so? Jealous, are you? Don''t fret, you''re next on the list," Evangeline''s retort was calm and


    mocking. The message was intended for Walter''s ears


    Julia was fuming on the other end of the line, unaware that Walter was standing next to Evangeline.


    "Why the attitude? You''re clueless, aren''t you? I''ve already filled Walter in, and he''s on board to help Ruby clean up the mess you''ve made. By the way, Walter rushed out so early today he left his tie at the hotel. Any idea where he''s at? I need to get it to him." Evangeline shot Walter a withering nce, his expression hardening.


    With a mockingugh, she retorted, "He''s here with me, says the tie''s too dirty to bother with. Just toss it


    somewhere!"


    With that, Evangeline ended the call.


    Walter inquired who had hurt her. She mistakenly thought he was not defending Julia''s honor, but her own. She had not expected...


    The feeling was indescribable as if her heart had been ripped apart.


    "I never saw it before, Walter, but you''re such a saint, always ying the hero for everyone but your own wife," mused Evangeline ironically. He would go to any lengths for Julia.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She had hoped for a moment of conscience, but he was just there to confront her on Julia''s behalf.


    Walter grasped her chin firmly. "I never saw iting either, that James would drag the Garside family into this mess for you!"


    The number of men in her life seemed to multiply. That James, who came out of nowhere, hadpletely escaped his notice.


    She had kept her secrets well. It looked like her years down South had been truly liberating.


    Evangeline could not read Walter''s thoughts. "Are you taking her side just because of Julia? If Ruby decides to take me out, would you think I had iting? If I''m crushed to nothing, you''d stand by Julia without a second thought and give me one more kick for good measu Walter''s expression darkened.


    He opened his mouth to exin, but Evangeline did not give him the chance. With a powerful shove, she sent him tumbling off the bed.


    "Out! I''ve had it with your ''hero'' act. Go save someone else.


    "From here on out, we''re done. You go y guardian angel to Julia. But as for the Garsides, this isn''t over. Not by a long shot."


    Evangeline would not let him-or anyone-make a fool of her. Even if it meant burning bridges with the whole Gordon family, she was determined to settle the score with the Garsides. "Evangeline!"


    Why could she not back down?


    Walter remained silent, his face a mask of anger, his lips a thin, icy line.


    "Alright, then!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 25

    hapter 25


    Walter stood by the bed. His lips were pressed into a thin line as he yanked at his tie in frustration, then nced at his watch.


    "You think you don''t need me? Don''t even care about your grandfather?"


    "What are you getting at?" Evangeline snapped back, still seething.


    "Your grandfather is sick, in Avalon City. He''s called me several times today. I told him we''d be there by eight tomorrow morning," said Walter, his presence aloof and intimidating.


    "I don''t need your help! I''ll see my grandpa on my own!" With those words, she pushed through the pain, got up, and left the bed behind.


    That bedroom, her gilded prison, was nothing but a badge of disgrace.


    How utterly ridiculous. Walter had never once visited that ce during their three-year marriage. Then, as divorce loomed, he was desperate to hold onto her.


    She, on the other hand, could not bear another minute there. The thought of him rescuing the Garside family for Julia''s sake had killed her love for him stone dead. He had a knack for cutting her to the core. When he sided with the Garsides, he became her enemy.


    Maybe it was time to tell her grandfather the whole truth.


    "We''re still married, Evangeline. I''ll keep up appearances, whether you like it or not," Walter dered, standing tall, his eyes dark and inscrutable.


    Evangeline turned her back to him and headed for the door. "Do what you want," she said dismissively.


    She was tired of the lonely marriage bed.


    Three years in, and all of a sudden, he cared about appearances? She could not stand sharing a room with him a moment longer.


    She flung the door open, limped out, and mmed it shut without a backward nce or a second thought.


    She left the vi.


    The wind scattered the overpowering presence he always seemed to carry.


    Alone in the dark room, Walter was brooding. After a while, he let out a mockingugh and made a call.


    "Come get me. I''m heading to the Garsides''."


    "Yes, Sir!"


    Cole had worn himself out in his younger days, and his health was failing, with severe heart and brain issuesnding him in intensive care.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    The following day, Evangeline, fighting off her difort, went to visit him in the hospital. To her dismay, Walter had the nerve to show up as well.


    Cole and Walter were meeting officially for the first time, and Walter did note empty-handed-he brought along a stash of pricey multivitamins as a gift.


    Cole was a shadow of his former self, lying in bed, his once sturdy frame then frail and shrunken.


    Despite the years taking their toll, his schrly looks and air of distinction still shone through, leaving Walter taken aback. It was clear that Evangeline''s grandfather was no ordinary country farmer as some had whispered. "What''s with the mask, Evie?" Cole inquired, eyeing the concealed Evangeline.


    "She''s got a bit of a cold and didn''t want to risk passing it on to you," Walter chimed in smoothly, covering for Evangeline.


    Evangeline felt like she could not even stand sharing the air with him, her expression icy. (1


    Nheless, for her grandfather''s sake, she held back her true feelings and added, "Yeah, Grandpa, just a little cold. Ande on, who could push around your granddaughter?" She gave her chest a confident pat and chuckled. Cole shook his head, his words a mix of gentle scolding and affection, "You''ve always been the picture of health. How did you manage to catch a cold? You need to take better care of yourself."


    "Sorry, Grandpa, it''s on me for not looking after Evie well enough," said Walter, settling his tall, elegant frame onto the sofa by the panoramic window.


    Evangeline rolled her eyes internally at Walter''s convincing act, giving him a mental thumbs-up. It was no wonder she had been so thoroughly duped by him for years.


    The old man coughed again, a stark reminder of his frailty. "I''m not what I used to be. You young ones will have to shoulder the family''s future," he said, a note of resignation in his voice.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 26

    hapter 26


    "Hardly, Grandpa. You''re tough as nails-a little sickness like this can''t knock you down. Give it a month tops, and you''ll be back on your feet. And when you are, I''ve got to get some painting and drawing tips from you.


    "Your sketching skills I saw on video were killer. It''s a rare find to see such talent these days." Walter knew exactly how to butter someone up, especially the older folks. Cole had taken up sketching as his golden years'' hobby.


    Walter''spliments had Cole grinning widely, noticeably lifting his spirits. He had been worried about Evangeline being underappreciated in the Gordon family, but it looked like her husband, despite his silver- spoon upbringing, was attentive after all. Evangeline rolled her eyes at Walter. Since when did he be an art connoisseur? With his knack for sweet talk, he might as well have been a clown.


    "You''ve got a silver tongue, young man, but let''s see some action," said Cole. "I''m getting on in years. Evie''s mother left us too soon, and now, seeing everyone else with their grandkids and great-grandkids, I''d like to hold a great-grandchild of my own." Walter, cool as a cucumber with his chiseled profile, said, "Between you and me, Evie and I are on it."


    Evangeline facepalmed. What a load of bull, talking as if they were actually trying. Meanwhile, they were on the fast track to a divorce.


    As the conversation veered more into baby territory, Evangeline steered it elsewhere. "Grandpa, I''ve tracked down Dr. George''s address and emailed him. We should hear back in a few days, and he''ll have you fixed up in no time."


    Walter reclined on the couch, giving her a measured look. "You mean Conrad George, the guy up for the World Medical Miracle Award a while back?"


    The top dog in brain aneurysm surgery, boasting an impressive eighty-five percent sess rate, had hung up his scrubs for


    good. Evangeline had to jump through hoops to dig up his address. ��dd duck that he was, she would think the hefty paycheck dangling would have got him biting, but no.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    She was giving it two more days before she would knock on his door herself. If push came to shove, she would pull out all the stops to get him on her grandfather''s case.


    "You know about him?" Evangeline raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Bits and pieces. His wife''s gadget gig did some wheeling and dealing with our Strata King Group," said Walter, nonchntly lifting an eyebrow.


    Dr. George had gotten toofy in his retirement shoes, barely lifting a finger to practice medicine


    anymore.


    Cole chuckled, running his fingers through his salt-and-pepper beard. "Ah, let it go. That stubborn mule''s been out of the game too long. Don''t you kids sweat it over me. Pop out a bouncing baby boy, and I''ll bounce back just fine." "Grandpa, you better mean that. I''ll handle the baby-making, but you''ve got to rally. Otherwise, our little


    $25 BONUS


    bundle might be too much for you to scoop up."


    "Alright, alright, I hear ya," Cole conceded.


    Cole was out like a light before long.


    After tucking Cole in, Evangeline and Walter stepped out of the room. However, as soon as they did, Evangeline''s mood changed entirely.


    "Walter, can you hook us up with Dr. George for Grandpa Cole''s treatment?" She cut to the chase. She had not spilled the beans to Cole, but she knew he had already tried to get the doctor''s attention, to no avail.


    Pride was the least of her worries when it came to Cole. Besides, she had yed the part of his missus for three years. Even if he was not over the moon about it, he owed her that much.


    Walter, a towering figure, slowly forced Evangeline back until she was trapped in the corner. He braced one hand on the wall behind her and gently but firmly held her chin with the other. His intense gaze locked onto hers, his voice a deep rumble. "It''s not out of the question. So tell me, Evangeline, are you pleading with me now?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 27

    Chapter 27


    With Evangeline''s back pressed against the wall, she tilted her head to meet Walter''s eyes. The small space amplified his masculine scent, and she held her breath, her hands balled into fists.


    Her face was a mask of cool professionalism, her longshes casting shadows over her cheeks. "Just name your price."


    Walter almostughed. The warmth that had been building around him vanished in an instant. He scoffed, the muscles in his jaw working. "That''s hardly how you ask for a favor, and money is thest thing I need." "Alright, then! Forget what I asked." Evangeline was done bowing to him.


    She bit her lip and tried to push him away, but Walter pushed her back against the wall. His hand gripped her waist, holding her in a charged standstill. "Believe it or not, I could say one word and George would never lift a finger to help you, no matter what you do." "Walter! You''re shameless!"


    Evangeline tried to kick him, but he caught her leg and wrapped it around his waist. "If you don''t want everyone to see our troubles, then by all means, continue!"


    Her kick was full of unrestrained anger.


    The closer they were, the angrier she felt. Her eyes took in the veins on his hand, his chiseled jaw, his Adam''s apple, his corbone, and the steely strength of his body.


    "You know exactly who I am, Walter! Or have you forgotten?" He gripped her chin tightly, and a jolt of electricity from their contact raced through his spine and into every part of his body.


    His gaze was intense, yet his words cut through the air with a biting coldness.


    Evangeline stood tall, her neck arched defiantly, refusing to lower her head and lose her pride even in that humiliating stance.


    A sneer yed in her eyes. "So, what is it that you want?" she challenged.


    "It would be a different story if Mrs. Walter Gordon of the prestigious Gordon family was pleading with me,


    "he retorted.


    Walter''s tone suggested that if Evangeline pushed for a divorce, he would not lift a finger to help. However, the courage it took for her to even consider leaving that heartless man... Why did he insist on trapping her in a loveless hell?


    With a bitter twist to her lips, Evangeline managed a smile. "Walter, you''ve barely been present in our three years of marriage. Thesest few days, I''ve seen more of you than ever. Why? Do you loathe me that much? What are you trying to do now?" Walter felt an inexplicable sting in his chest as he looked at her, his eyes flickering with emotions. "Didn''t you force me into this marriage? What makes you think you can just walk away whenever you please?"


    He let go of her, his demeanor turning icy. "I want you to fully experience what it means to be the Seventh Young Madam of the Gordon family."


    *25 BONUS


    Evangeline had no illusions. He would not make that easy for her, refusing to let her dictate the terms of their separation. He was bitter shout the past-her ultimatum, the way she had tom him from Julia, and the public humiliation on the cruise ship


    How could he let that go?


    Even so, she was the one he had been promised to since they were children.


    Without giving her a moment to doubt, Walter''s eyes swept over her. "When you''ve made up your mind,


    The moment he finished, Evangeline was swiftly escorted away by her entourage of bodyguards, her departure so rapid it seemed to suck the warmth right out of the air. However, Evangeline''s spirit remained unbroken. She gritted her teeth, fighting back the shivers and the


    flush of embarrassment that scorched her cheeks.


    She almost let those shameful tears escape.


    She was the Foster family''s darling, the little princess. Back in the South, at the Foster estate, she had never been pushed to the point of tears. Defeat was not an option.


    Her ringtone broke through her thoughts, and she steadied her breath before answering. It was James.


    "Evie, the court date ising up. Are you ready?" He meant the divorce from Walter, of course.


    "Stick to the n, Uncle James," she replied firmly.


    She would not back down on the divorce unless she had no choice.


    Evangeline gave a signal after the call, and Wade, her loyal and formidable bodyguard, appeared as if from nowhere.


    Evangeline had always kept a low profile, and she certainly did not want Walter clued into her true status.


    Wade had been her shadow, her silent protector. He stood ready behind her, all deference. "Ms. Evangeline, yourmand?"


    "Track down Dr. George. If he won''t budge with a gentle push, then we''ll have to force his hand. You have three days to bring him to me." Time was slipping away from her.


    Her grandpa did not have much left either. He might have looked alright, but she knew he was just putting on a brave face for her sake.


    She cursed herself for wasting thest three years on a love never meant to be.


    "Understood, Ms. Evangeline." Wade could sense that the fiery spirit of the young Evangeline was reignited.


    Evangeline had barely taken the reins when the news hit like a thunderbolt: her grandpa''s health had taken a turn for the worse. Her phone buzzed with urgency. Chapter 27


    It was Asher, her right-hand man, calling her to steer Foster Group through the storm.


    "What about my uncles?" Evangeline''s brow furrowed, the gravity of the situation sinking in.


    "Ms. Evangeline, the less said about those so-called ''masters,'' the better. The ones overseas can''t make it back, and the ones here have just thrown in the towel. It''s all on you now," Asher''s voice carried the weight of the world.


    Life had not been kind to Evangeline. She had lost her mother young and then faced the tempest of Foster Group alone.


    "Time''s tight, and there''s a real mess that needs your touch, Ms. Evangeline," said Asher hesitantly.


    "What''s the mess?" Evangeline''s eyebrow arched, ready for battle.


    "With Foster Group pushing north and your grandfather''s failing health, there''s no one else to lead. Your absence these past three years has rocked the stock market. Now, Strata King Group and Gordon Group are circling like vultures, eyeing our central business turf," reported Asher.


    The mere mention of Strata King Group and Gordon Group set Evangeline''s blood boiling. Walter was a heartless snake, preying on the vulnerable.


    "Mr. Davis, any word on him?" She ended the call and dialed Wade.T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "George is missing! However, word on the street is that Walter''s got him."


    Walter?!


    As the morning sun kissed the skyline, Evangeline stormed up to the gleaming entrance of Strata King Group''s towering headquarters.


    A sleek sapphire blue Maserati pulled up, and out stepped a statuesque woman cloaked in a ck trench coat, her eyes hidden behind dark sunsses-a shield for the not-yet-healed scars beneath.


    She was on a mission: to get some straight answers from Walter.


    "Where''s Walter?" she demanded, cutting straight to the chase as she reached the reception.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 28

    Chapter 28


    To Evangeline''s surprise, the receptionists barely acknowledged her. Their eyes flicked up before returning to their tasks as if she were invisible.


    One of them sneered, "Looks like we''ve got all kinds in this big forest. Thinking your money can buy Mr. Walter Gordon''s attention? He''s not just anyone''s for the taking."


    "I''m Walter''s wife. Where is he?" Evangeline shot back, not in the mood for their games.


    Theyughed. "Miss, you look like you''re somebody, so why the sudden delusion? The president''s wife just delivered his breakfast."


    "Mrs. Walter Gordon? Breakfast?" Evangeline could not help butugh at the ridiculous im. She was eager to see what kind of show Walter had going on during his ''trouble-free'' days at the office. She breezed past the security checkpoint and into the building.


    The receptionists scrambled to call security, but Walter''s assistant intervened, chiding them, "That woman is our president''s wife."


    The receptionists at the front desk were visibly shaken, theirplexions ghostly. They had assumed the regr visitor was Mrs. Walter Gordon, but they had made a grave mistake and then feared their jobs were on the line.


    Oscar raced after Evangeline, sweat beading on his forehead as he frantically texted Walter. As Walter''s right-hand man, he had reached the limit of what he could do.


    Walter nced at his phone, his eyes darkening, his emotions veiled by the shadow of hisshes.T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Meanwhile, the woman the receptionists had referred to as Mrs. Walter Gordon, Julia, was in the office, presenting Walter with a dessert she had painstakingly prepared.


    "Walt, thanks for helping Ruby''s family. I made this just for you, after much practice. Try it," Julia cooed, offering a piece of cake to his lips, her demeanor so intimate that she nearly climbed into his embrace.


    Despite the chill, Julia was dressed in an elegant white dress with a daring slit and a bare waist. With just a touch, their skin would meet. 1


    Evangeline walked in at that moment and caught the intimate exchange.


    "Looking for a new thrill since home cooking has lost its appeal?" she quipped, her voice dripping with icy


    sarcasm.


    Walter''s gaze turned stormy, but he did not push Julia away. Instead, he epted a bite of the cake, remarking, "A change of pace can be refreshing."


    Julia beamed at Evangeline. "You might not want to butt heads with Walt, Evangeline. I heard your grandpa is so sick and broke that he can''t even afford a doctor. If you tick Walt off and he cuts off the funds for your grandpa''s care, it would be a costly mistake." Evangeline''s lips twisted in a mocking smile.


    She walked in with an air ofmand, mming her diamond-studded designer bag onto Walter''s desk, towering over Julia with a look of disdain. "Just zip it, Julia. What gives you the right to butt into our


    family drama? Still ying the town gossip like it''s your family business?"


    Julia was fuming, so much so that words failed her. She had to maintain her facade of the demure white lotus; swearing would only tarnish her image in front of Walter.


    Struggling, she only managed to stutter out a feeble, "You... You..." Her eyes welled up with frustrated


    tears.


    "What? Got a stutter? Go fix it!"


    "Ever thought of acting like a properdy, Evangeline?" Julia''s face flushed with rage. She had always used her poised persona to highlight Evangeline''s crassness-a tried and true strategy. Surely, Walter would see through Evangeline''s spite and favor her, the ever-understanding and gentle soul.


    "Oh, ady, are you? Hardly! You''re nothing but a pretender, a two-faced bitch!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 29

    Chapter 29


    Julia was a whirlwind of humiliation and fury, her eyes bloodshot. She was the beloved Rearden heiress, the entertainment world''s violin prodigy, and Walter''s untouchable angel. She could not possibly degrade herself by engaging with such a coarse woman from the sticks.


    She must not lose herposure in front of Walter.


    With a pitiful gaze, she tumed to him, "I''m so sorry, Walt. I shouldn''t havee today."


    At least she knew Walter was on her side. She would let Evangeline carry on with her vulgarity. After all, Walter despised that sort of woman above all else.


    With that thought, she let go of any pettiness toward Evangeline and grabbed her own 30000-dor sparkly designer bag. She could not help but sneak a peek at Evangeline''s purse.


    Evangeline''s essory was supposedly a 75000-dor exclusive, a one-of-a-kind in all of Avalon City, rumored to be snapped up by some secret high-roller family.


    However, Evangeline''s was obviously a knockoff. Pure vanity and tastelessness in one package. "I won''t keep you, Walt," she said breezily. "I''ve got to hit the studio for my first album this afternoon." Walter lounged in his chair, his eyes heavy-lidded as he watched Evangeline. At Julia''s announcement, he just nodded.


    Brushing past Evangeline, Julia could not resist a dig, "You know, if you''re into exclusive bags, I''ll send over one from our collectionter. However, that fake..."


    She hesitated, "You really shouldn''t carry it. Even if you and Walter are on the outs, you''re still the Seventh Young Madam of the Gordons. You don''t want to embarrass him, do you?"? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Without waiting for a reply, she strutted out, bag in tow, and shut the door with a click. Evangeline simply arched an eyebrow.


    They could talk about her fake bag however much they wanted; she was above such trivial chatter.


    "Now that the nuisance is gone, let''s get down to business," said Evangeline, crossing her legs and settling into the chair across from Walter.


    She strutted in, her long ck coat open to unt the sultry mermaid dress beneath, its silhouette tracing her figure in a dance of curves.


    She exuded an allure she never had as Mrs. Walter Gordon.


    Walter''s gaze was as deep and dark as the ocean. "First time in my office, isn''t it?" he remarked.


    "Let''s hear it-the price. I need you to connect me with Dr. George," said Evangeline, getting right to the point.


    Walter,posed as ever, drummed his fingers on the desk. "You know what I want."


    Evangeline inhaled sharply. "Anything but divorce. Name it."


    He pondered briefly. "There''s always another way, nothing''s set in stone."


    Hope sparked in Evangeline''s eyes. However, his next words had her seething.


    "The grandfathers are itching for a grandson. Get pregnant, and I''ll call Dr. George."


    Evangeline mmed the table, fuming. "You''re despicable, Walter!"


    The thought was ludicrous-they were on the brink of divorce. How could she bear his child? By the time she would, her grandfather would likely be gone. "Take it or leave it," said Walter dismissively, ushering her out.


    Evangeline''s anger bubbled as Walter calmly took a call about buying out Foster Group, right in front of. her. She clenched her fists.


    ''Just wait, Walter. You''ll regret this,'' swore Evangeline.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 30

    Chapter 30


    Evangeline said no more, grabbed her bag, and left with a defiant swagger.


    Walter never saw iting. Evangeline''s abrupt departure left him staring at her retreating figure, his gaze heavy with unspoken thoughts. His brows knitted together, and a tightness in his chest grew until he could not stand it anymore.


    He irritatedly yanked at his tie and threw it aside with a forceful snap.


    Deep into the night, Walter was thest man working. His deskmp was the lone ind of light in an otherwise deserted building.


    Even


    Evangeline, with all her reservations about him, could not deny Walter''s prowess in business. Clinical and detached he might be, but his work was wless, his talent exceptional. It was his vision and drive that had built Strata King Group from the ground up, steering it to p eye.


    "Still burning the midnight oil, Mr. Walter Gordon?" Evangeline''s voice broke the silence as she stepped in, slipping off her coat.


    The coat revealed a form-fitting ck dress that hugged her figure, entuating every curve. Her makeup was impable, her corbone a delicate contrast to her porcin skin, her lips a vibrant red that promised mischief.


    She was the kind of woman who left asting impression on every man who looked at her.


    Even Walter, usually soposed, found his gaze lingering on her longer than necessary. It was only on the brink of divorce that he realized she could truly captivate.


    Walter''s smile was all facade. "Ms. Rearden, dressed to kill-are you finally ready to start a family with


    me?"


    With a slight lift of her lips and a walk that could only be called a siren''s call, Evangeline closed the distance and shut hisptop with a click.


    "I figured the night could be less lonely if we had a chat, don''t you think, Mr. Walter Gordon?"


    Evangeline''s voice was a murmur, dripping with charm, making her far more bewitching than the demure Julia could ever hope to be.


    "I''m all yours for the evening," Walter replied with a smile, reaching for the hiddenpartment in his


    office.


    Walter''s private room at the office was spacious and cozy, doubling as a sanctuary with shelves of books lining the walls.


    He gestured for her toe closer. Evangeline had made the first move, and he was all too willing to y along, curious to see how far she would go. Despite her bold approach, the moment the door clicked shut, Evangeline''s heart raced with unexpected


    nerves.


    However, in a swift move, Walter had her gently pinned against the plush couch.


    His presence was intoxicating, a familiar scent mingling with the air as a stray lock of hair fell across his forehead, shadowing eyes that drew her in deeper.


    Evangeline fought to keep her feelings at bay, her lips parting slightly,shes fluttering in a silent siren''s call. Her arms found their way around his neck, tender yet eager.


    Her other hand yed with his tie, tugging him closer still.


    Propped on one arm, Walter finally noticed the sweet, clinging scent of her perfume, sending a shiver down his spine and a tingle to his senses.


    The reaction was immediate.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She had put on perfume, had she not?


    Her touch did not stop there. Her hand trailed down his neck, over the expanse of his chest, fingers deftly undoing his shirt buttons. As she moved, the strap of her ck dress slipped, revealing the swell of her chest, the bra beneath pushing up what was already ample, though she seemed blissfully unaware.


    Her touch sparked a trail of heat.


    "Walter! Are these your abs?"


    He chuckled, a low, raspy sound that filled the air. "Surprised?"


    "They''re so firm!" Her voice was a whisper, her breath warm against his skin, cheeks flushed with a rosy glow. Her fingers danced to his belt, and with a practiced flick, it came undone.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 31

    Chapter 31


    Evangeline''s hand deftly found its way into his pants. "You know, I''ve practiced unbuckling your belt alone at home more times than I can count over the past three years." Walter was a bundle of nerves, his body reacting with a mix of tenderness and tension, the air charged with an unspoken promise.


    Before Evangeline could protest, Walter''s lips imed hers in a kiss that set their hearts racing.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Lost in the moment, his tongue explored the sweetness of her mouth, their breaths quickening in unison. Her touch was so enthralling that it left him aching all over.


    Caught in the haze of desire, Walter''s inner voice screamed that he was done holding back. He yearned to unravel her, to meld her into his very being.


    Just then, Evangeline''s other hand snapped a photo with her phone. The sh yanked Walter back to reality.


    "What are you doing?" he rasped, his voice rough with longing. "You nning to keep that as a keepsake?" With a mighty shove, Evangeline pushed him away, her previously flushed face then smug with victory. Exactly, a memento of our unbreakable bond." She propped herself up, nonchntly fixing her straps.


    Right in front of Walter, she sent the photo of their heated kiss to Julia.


    If Walter cared that much about Julia, it was time he got a taste of heartache.


    He loomed over her, a brooding presence, watching her send the photo. In a swift motion, he tossed her phone away, then leaned in close, his grip firm on her chin. "Enjoying yourself?"


    The fire in his veins was extinguished in an instant.


    The air turned icy, but Evangeline''sugh was fearless, sharp as the frost. "ying with you? It''s always a st."


    Her allure vanished in a heartbeat, her eyes void of any warmth. "Walter, this is just the start. I''ll have men, and I''ll have kids."


    Her voice was a grenade, each word detonating years of bitterness. "However, the kids'' dad will never be you."


    Walter towered over her, his presence as chilling as the grave. "You''re willing to throw away your grandfather''s life?"


    "Take care of your own mess!" With a swift move, Evangeline pushed past him, her emotions in check.


    She nced back, a mix of pity and scorn. "Did you know I wore e-hither'' perfume? It''ll hit you soon. Craving a woman''s touch? Wait for Julia. She''s on her way, and you two are a match made in heaven."


    With that, she walked away, calm andposed, her high heels clicking like a victory march. She was the epitome of pride, nothing like the temptress she had just yed.


    She had lured him in, only to shut him down.


    It was a clear message: She was no longer the girl who would fall for his tricks.


    Once, she would have given anything to be his. At this moment, however, she would not give him the time of day.


    Walter fought back his rage, his desire. He did not drag her back, did not throw her down.


    As she stepped out, his voice cut through the silence, icy and unforgiving. "Evangeline, you think you can y me without paying a price?"


    "Do your worst," she shot back without a backward nce.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 32

    Chapter 32


    Evangeline''s eyebrow arched, her focus unbroken.


    She opened the door and left without hesitation.


    Walter stood alone, a towering figure, as menacing as a demon risen from the depths.


    His thoughts were swirling, haunted by her deration that she would find another man and have kids, but that he would never father these children.


    His brows knotted in anguish. He let out a bitter, mockingugh.


    Face set hard, he fought the rage boiling in his veins and strode into the bathroom.


    On the way, he dialed his assistant Oscar. "Lock down the lobby, Julia is not to set foot in here."


    Walter was right on the money; Julia had been a ticking time bomb since getting Evangeline''s text. She made a beeline for the Strata King Group tower, only to be stopped abruptly by the security detail. Her calls to Walter hit a dead end, and Evangeline had cklisted her.


    Fury consumed her, her eyes zing with volcanic hate.


    She lost it, screaming at the top of her lungs, "Evangeline''s up there with him, I know it! They''ve been together!"


    Three years of marriage, and Walter had notid a finger on that tramp Evangeline. Julia had been vignt, but she had let her guard down just as they were on the brink of divorce.


    Evangeline had even sent those scandalous photos to taunt her.


    Julia had never seen Walter so enraptured as if he wanted to fuse Evangeline into his very being.


    After all that, how could nothing have happened?


    He was so out of Evangeline''s league. What did Evangeline, that nobody, have that she did not?


    It was unbearable!


    She swore she would not let that tramp Evangeline get away with this.


    Meanwhile, Walter, still burning with unspent passion, was submerged in a cold bath,


    His willpower was irond, his emotions usually in check. Maybe it was the lingering trace of Evangeline or the way she had stirred him up, but the fire inside him refused to die down, even after two hours. Bare-chested, he lounged in the bathtub, his chiseled jawline tilted upward as he fought to control his ragged breaths. His entire body was alight with a tingling sensation-


    from his throat to the base of his spine. Her soft lips haunted his thoughts, along with the icy sting of her indifferent words.


    A dull ache spread through his chest, awakening old wounds he thought he had buried long ago. His temples throbbed with tension.


    Just then, Dr. Conrad George''s call broke through the silence, checking in on Cole''s health. "Mr. Walter Gordon, your kindness has not been forgotten," said Conrad with utmost respect. Walter had once saved T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    the doctor''s wife, a debt not easily dismissed.


    Walter''s response was calm and detached. "It was my pleasure to assist you, Dr. George. What''s your take on my wife''s grandfather''s condition?"


    "The old man''s case is a bitplex, but I''m confident that with my care, he''ll be on the mend shortly."


    "Then I owe you my thanks," Walter replied, his voice still frosty.


    "There''s something else, Mr. Walter Gordon. Recently, someone approached me. They didn''t reveal their identity, but I sense they are backed by significant power, possibly even rivaling yours," stated the doctor. Walter''s frown deepened at the news. "I''ll take care of it. I''ll find you a safe ce toy low. But first, I need you to give my wife''s grandfather a thorough check-up. The sooner, the better."


    "Of course, I''m ready whenever you need me."


    Walter also made it clear to Conrad to avoid any other engagements for the time being, and to stay where Walter had arranged for him.


    Was it Evangeline who had sent that mysterious force? If so, it would prove Walter''s hunch: Evangeline''s grandfather was no ordinary man.


    Walter dialed up his assistant, Oscar. "Dig up some info on Evangeline''s grandfather, will you?"


    ""Right away," replied Oscar.


    Back at home, Evangeline got a call from her uncle, Holden Foster, with uplifting news. He had tracked down Conrad''s address and was nning to visit him so

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 33

    Chapter 33


    That was exactly why Evangeline had had the guts to stand up to Walter.


    "And what about Mr. Walter Gordon?" Wade inquired, eyeing Evangeline''s cheerful demeanor. They still had to decide whether to proceed with the divorce in court.


    Evangeline had informed Holden about the matter and, concerned about Cole''s health, could not bring herself to burden him with the troubles between her and Walter.


    "We''ll talk about itter. Walter is a real piece of work. If I go crawling back to him, I''d be the biggest fool," Evangeline dered.


    However, fate had a cruel twist in store. Before the day was out, Cole''s assistant Asher was on the phone again, that time with dire news: The hospital had dered Cole critically ill.


    Evangeline raced to the ICU, finding her grandfather ashen-faced, her own eyes brimming with tears.


    Cole had raised her after her mother''s departure and gave her a childhood filled with love. He became her rock, and she, his only granddaughter. However, then, a call from Uncle Holden dropped like a bombshell: Dr. George had been moved by Walter. Evangeline knew she could not waste another second. If her grudge against Walter ended up costing her grandfather''s life, she would never forgive herself. Evangeline did not even have time to wallow in self-pity. If she was to bebeled a jerk, then so be it. After all, who had not acted like a jerk at least once? She floored the elerator, the needle pushing past the 200 kilometers, as she raced toward Walter''s apartment.


    The ce was just a stone''s throw from the office. She had grilled Walter''s assistant for his whereabouts, snagged the keys, and made a beeline to his doorstep.


    What she did not expect was to be greeted by the sight of a freshly showered, gloriously bare Walter as she burst through the door.


    His dark brows and eyes were a striking contrast to the night, his stature tall and legs long. He was mid- dry, a towel in hand, water droplets cascading down his chiseled chin, tracing the contours of his chest and abs, down the lines of his Adonis belt, and further... Evangeline''s breath hitched. Despite the flush of embarrassment and a surge of anger, she did not turn


    tail and run.


    She stood her ground, arms crossed, taking him in from head to toe.


    This was Evangeline''s first encounter with Walter in all his unveiled glory.


    Water from his shower dripped from his dark hair, meandering from his sharp jawline to his lean neck and softly trailing down.


    His usually suit-d figure was on full disy, his toned body a testament to strength and beauty, the eight-pack abs adding to the allure.


    Below, his long, pale thighs hinted at more... His physique was nothing short of impressive, the object of


    172. 172.


    many a woman''s desire.


    His muscles were defined and strong, each curve exuding raw sexual energy. His boxer briefs were


    stretched taut, on the verge of surrender.


    Her mind unbidden shed back to the previous night''s kiss, Walter pinning her down, a kiss that seared right through her. Evangeline knew she had to look away.


    She clenched her jaw, eyes shut tight as she cursed under her breath. "Disgusting, Walter. How dare you parade around naked!"


    Walter looked unfazed, casually draping a towel over his waist. "This is my ce, I can dress how I like. You''re the one who''s trespassing, don''t you think?"? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    He ran his fingers through Evangeline''s hair. "What''s the asion, Ms. Rearden? Have you had a change of heart ande all the way here to make a delivery in person?"


    The nerve of him, referring to her as if she were just an item for delivery. Evangeline''s cheeks burned with rage, yet she knew this was not the time for an outburst.


    Her voice was a rough whisper as she forced the words out, "Walter, do you still want it?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 34

    Chapter 34


    Evangeline took a deep breath, realizing this would not be the day things got resolved.


    After yesterday''s ugly confrontation and her plotting against him, she was sure he would be looking for payback.


    Walter chuckled as if she had told a joke.


    He slipped into a ck robe, nonchntly pulled out a cigarette, and lit it. He was not a regr smoker, but he let the bright me flicker and smoke swirl around him.


    The smoke masked the icy storm in his eyes. "Didn''t you say you didn''t want it yesterday? Leave!"


    Evangeline''s mind raced back to the previous day.


    She did not need to guess; she was certain Walter had been with Julia.


    "I was wrong yesterday."


    She approached him, eyes downcast.


    Walter sat sprawled out before her, a picture ofnguid arrogance tinged with a hint of gloom. At her admission, he scoffed. "Ms. Rearden, are you admitting a mistake? That''s a rarity."


    He pulled her closer, right between his parted legs, and tilted her chin up, forcing her to meet his gaze.


    Evangeline''s gaze was clouded with a mist of mystery, her eyes beneath it both enchanting and rmingly intense.


    He was like a predator eyeing his prey, leaving Evangeline with no chance of escape.


    His mockingugh cut through the air. "Why would you think I''d want you when I have Julia? Where''s that confidence you had yesterday?"


    If it were not for the dire situation, with her grandfather''s life on the line, she would have exploded in rage right then and there.


    She clenched her fists, biting back her anger.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    The scoundrel had deliberately hidden Dr. George, and yet he had the gall to y innocent!


    He was heartless, wanting nothing more than to see her grovel.


    "I was wrong," Evangeline admitted.


    "Is that how you ask for a favor?" Walter''s voice was a low purr, dangerously inviting as he leaned in closer.


    With a sigh of defeat, Evangeline closed her eyes.


    However, in the next instant, a sharp flick to her forehead made her wince. "Ow," she muttered, rubbing


    the spot. ''This man... Is he into some twisted games?'' she thought.


    Walter reclined on the sofa,manding, "Come, dry my hair."


    "That''s it?" she asked incredulously.


    "No, once it''s dry, we''ll move on to the next step," he said as ifying down thew.


    Evangeline picked up the hairdryer as she internally growled, ''Enjoy your little game, Walter. Once Grandpa is safe, you''ll get what''sing to you.''


    She nced at Walter, sitting so properly, yet the corner of his towel had slipped, hinting at the sculpted muscles beneath.


    Any warmth she might have felt, any lingering trace ofst night''s encounter with Julia, was then as scattered as the wind.


    Evangeline bit her lip and edged closer to Walter, her fingers yfully teasing the strands of his hair. They were so close, their breaths mingled in the charged air. "Do you like the way I''m doing this, Walter?" she teased, her voice a sultry whisper.


    She reached for the towel''s edge, but before she could lift it, Walter''s hand shot out, capturing hers and pinning her down.


    His strength was undeniable, a man in control.


    "Evangeline, are you trying to flirt with danger?" Walter''s voice was a low rumble, his chest rising and falling against her, his heartbeat thunderous in the silence. This was too much, she realized. She had pushed the boundaries too far.


    He was...


    So easily provoked...


    Had Julia left him wanting more?


    "Walter," she said quickly, trying to diffuse the tension, to bring him back to his senses.


    "I''ll help your grandfather, but we need to agree on some terms first, right here, right now." His voice was steady despite the desire she could feel in his touch. Evangeline''s lips formed a tight line. "What terms?"


    "First, no other men. That includes James. You can''t even think about having kids with anyone but me.


    "Second, no more talk of divorce.


    "Third, you move back in with me."


    His conditions wereid out with a smooth certainty. It was as if he had been nning them all along, just waiting for the right moment toy them out before her, each word a p of cold reality. Evangeline''s heart sank, her frown deepening. "I can handle the first two, but thest one... There has to be a limit. How long do Thave to stay?"


    "Until I''m done with you," said Walter, his breath warm against her skin, his words sending a shiver down her spine.


    Evangeline''s dream of freedom seemed to be slipping through her fingers again, pulling her back into the same trap that had held her captive for thest three years. She had fought tooth and nail to break free,


    and then, there she was, about to step back into that nightmare willingly.


    Waiter was a man without a heart. He never once cared for her and merely used her as a toy. He would toss aside what he did not want, but heaven forbade his toys ever walked away from him.


    Even her grandfather, lying frail and old in the ICU, was nothing more than a pawn to Walter. The thought made Evangeline''s grip tighten until her nails nearly pierced her skin. "Alright, I''ll sign."


    If that was Walter''s game, she would y along.


    However, she would not make it easy for him. If he wanted her to stick around, he would better be ready for the sting of her resistance. Evangeline might bend, but she would not be trapped in the shadows, helpless, forever. Once her grandfather was well, she would find a way out. Walter would regret ever crossing her.


    She finished signing and looked straight at Walter. "So, when is Dr. Georgeing? My grandfather''s running out of time!"


    "He is already in your grandfather''s OR.''


    "You!" Evangeline bit back her anger, fighting the urge tosh out.


    He had already sent the doctor to the hospital and still had the nerve to force her hand.


    Walter was aplete sleaze, a lowlife, a total jerk.


    "Go clean up now," said Walter, oblivious to her seething rage, as he let her go. The pressure was suffocating, a crushing weight on her body and soul.


    ''Fine, I''ll take the damn bath. For now, I''ll do as told, like I''d been nipped by a rabid dog,'' she thought.


    Walter might have been tough on her, but with his chiseled features and striking looks, it was almost like a constion prize, as long as her grandfather pulled through.


    With a heavy heart, Evangeline rose and secured the bathroom door behind her.


    The sound of cascading water soon filled the room, and through the frosted ss, a vague outline danced. Her wless silhouette was as captivating as the relentless stream, igniting the anticipation of those outside.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 35

    apter 35


    Walter rubbed his fingers together, chasing the ghost of Evangeline''s touch.


    Unable to shake the agitation within, he found himself lighting a cigarette, breaking a long-abandoned habit.


    Evangeline, alone in the bathroom, let the water cleanse her as if it could wash away her troubles.


    Just then, a call from Cole''s assistant, Asher came in. She snatched up the phone, desperate for news


    about her grandfather.


    With a trembling finger, she hit the answer button.


    Relief washed over her as Wade, her bodyguard, delivered the news with barely contained excitement. " Miss, your grandfather''s out of surgery, and the doctors say he''s out of the woods for now." "That''s wonderful," breathed Evangeline, her emotions a tangled mess.


    "However, you''re still needed to lead thepany, to keep everyone steady. We''re making critical moves up north, and Strata King Group isn''t making it easy," Wade pressed on.


    Evangeline''s resolve hardened. "Wade, let them know I''ll be there for the meeting tomorrow. And hold off on any deals with the Gordons or overseas expansion. We''ll wait until Grandpa is back on his feet."


    The Gordons, seizing the moment while Cole Fostery on his deathbed, went all out to crush the Fosters'' business. It was crucial, more than ever, for someone to rally the troops and keep the empire her grandfather Cole built from falling into enemy hands. ''Trevon, since Grandpa is safe and sound right now, you''ll just have to wait and see.'' Evangeline mused.


    "Yes, Miss. However, there''s a snag. The Gordons might be onto the guy the Fosters sent to tail Dr. George. Walter is getting suspicious about who you really are. He''s digging into you and Mr. Foster. He''s bound to figure it out, so why not juste clean? It might get him ''Tell him? My deal with Walter was a stopgap, nothing more,'' she thought.


    She was not nning on sticking around after her grandfather got better. Divorce was still on the horizon.


    Their futures were on a collision course. If she stepped up to lead Foster Group, a showdown with Walter in the business arena was inevitable.


    It was not worth the hassle.


    "Forget him. Pick me up in the morning," she said before ending the call. Evangeline revealed in the water, humming a tune, utterly content.


    Outside, Walter was scratching his head, puzzled by the joy of the lovely Evangeline inside the bath. She was that overjoyed because he had gotten her a doctor? He guessed he would have to step up his game.


    As he snuffed out his smoke, Evangeline, who had arrived without a stitch of her own, rifled through Walter''s closet and slipped into one of his champagne-colored shirts.


    Walter towered over most, and his shirt on Evangeline was so long it grazed her thighs, making pants


    seem unnecessary.


    She fastened the buttons in a mismatched fashion, her damp hair tumbling down like a dark cascade. framming her elegant corbones. The loose shirt left her creamy shoulders bare, glowing with an alluring sheen


    "Looking good," Evangeline mused to her reflection "wonder who''ll be the lucky guy to snag me." After a moment''s thought, she slipped into Walter''s robe for extra coverage


    Walter, blessed with sharp hearing, could not help but cringe at her words


    Evangeline swung the bedroom door open, a porcin leg stepping out first, followed by the beauty with her hair still carrying the scent of her shampoo


    ? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    GET IT NOW

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 36

    hapter 36


    #25 BONUS


    "Walter, I''m all cleaned up. What''s next? If there''s nothing, I''m off to bed."


    Evangeline was about to head to the guest room, being considerate.


    However, Walter called out, "Walt."


    "What''s up?" she looked back at him.


    "Come here, sit with me."


    Evangeline hesitated. With a resigned nod, sheplied.


    Walter''s eyes gleamed with mischief as he watched her approach.


    She walked over and brazenly sat on hisp. She pushed him back onto the bed and unti��d the robe''s sash.


    "I didn''t see thising," Walter murmured, his desire ring.


    "Oh? There''s a lot you don''t seeing," Evangeline quipped as she climbed onto him, the robe falling away to reveal swathes of pale skin. "Tell me, how did Julia take care of youst night?"


    Beneath her, a bath towel was the only thing left covering him. It was clear he was more than ready for her teasing.


    As their skin brushed against each other, the air crackled with electricity. The room was charged with a sultry heat and unspoken promises.


    "She''s got more game than you..." Walter groaned from beneath her, his voice a deep, seductive rumble. Despite his biting words, he pulled the beauty in front of him closer as if he wanted to consume her then and there. Desire threatened to engulf his every ounce of self-control.


    Evangeline was used to his icy jabs, but instead of getting mad, she chuckled. Her kisses were a


    wild mix of fierce and tender, and just when Walter thought he could not take it anymore, she yfully nipped his ear and whispered, "Guess what? It''s that time of the month for me, Walter."


    ''Go chase after Julia if you''re so smitten,'' she mused silently.


    Her words hit him like a cold shower, dousing his fiery lust in an instant.


    Walter''s face darkened, storm clouds gathering in his expression, his emotions a tangled mess he could not quite sort out.T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Still, he held back, marking her corbone with a possessive kiss.


    "You earned this," he said icily, realizing she had tricked him. He got up, put on his clothes, and detached himself from the moment.


    "Can''t take a joke, huh?" Evangeline gloated.


    She waved her phone with a smirk. "Don''t get mad! If you''re burning up, I could always call Julia. She''s the cool, understanding type, right? She''d put out your fire in no time. And don''t you worry, even though I''m still Mrs. Walter Gordon, I''m not the jealous type," she said w Walter remained frozen in that same intense stance, his body a sculpture of strength. His gaze, dark and piercing, held her captive, his eyes aloof and detached.


    He chuckled. "You''re quite the good wife, aren''t you?"


    He could not bear another second.


    With a swift motion, he donned his coat, the door mming shut behind him, leaving Evangeline in solitude.


    The room fell silent, with only Evangeline left, her energy sapped, slumped on Walter''s bed.


    The sheets carried his distinct, potent scent-clean, sharp, and somehowforting.


    Her heart ached as if scorched by acid. It felt inexplicably tight and sore.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 37

    Chapter 37


    Evangeline nestled into the bedding, her body colled with difort,manding herself not to ponder where Walter had disappeared to.


    She tried to focus on the uing board meeting and what challenges it might bring.


    Everyone knew that in the Foster family of the South was a beloved young woman. who was the center of attention and adoration. She was the cherished granddaughter of Cole and the niece of James, the fifth son of the Cole family. She had been groomed as the future h old legacy.


    The ''Little Princess Foster'' was once a legend among the southern gentry. She was said to be fiery, radiant, and imperiously unyielding, always getting her way.


    Yet, for the past three years, the princess who was once the object of envy and spite -had vanished.


    Rumors swirled that she had lost her inheritance for crossing Cole. Whispers of foul y within the family''s ranks circted.


    However, the truth of her absence was unknown to all-she had married. Married to a man whose heart held no love for her.


    The Foster family was in turmoil once again. Coley ill, his life hanging by a thread, while his sons showed little interest in the family empire. Meanwhile, others lurked in the shadows, hungry for the chance to step into the role of heir. Evangeline''s mind drifted to Cole''s words.


    He and his brothers had built the Foster empire from the ground up. Passing it on was not just about handing over the keys; it required guts and grit. Foster Group had no room for ckers.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    He saw potential in Evangeline and hoped she would be the one to take the reins. Yet, he feared the weight of expectation might crush her, just as it had her mother, who had been so easily swayed by her father''s fleeting affections. If it came down to it, Cole would rather see Evangeline carve her own path than be burdened by the Foster legacy.


    Staring at an old photo on her phone, Evangeline saw her mother as a young girl, braids and all, safe in Cole''s embrace. Back then, he was a dashing figure. At this


    moment, all that was left was a frail man on a hospital bed, his silver hair a stark reminder of time''s passage.


    The pain Cole must have felt when Yessica passed away was unimaginable. Back then, Evangeline was powerless, forced to watch as her mother sumbed to Lydia''s treachery and her father''s betrayal. However, she was resolute- she would not let any of them get away with it.


    *Grandpa, there was a time when I was too young to do much, but now I''m all grown up. It''s my turn to look after you," whispered Evangeline to the photo on her phone, her mind wandering, before drifting off into a deep''sleep on Walter''s bed. She had not slept so soundly in ages, and she nearly overslept.


    Thankfully, her assistant Wade had called her. He had even picked out her outfit and prepared her speech; the car was waiting right outside her apartment.


    The buzz was all about the fabled missing Foster family heiress, who was rumored to be making an appearance.


    Foster Group was abuzz with anticipation.


    Cole had only one daughter, Yessica, and thepany''s top brass had neverid eyes on that mythical granddaughter.


    The rumor mill was working overtime, painting the so-called Foster heiress as nothing more than a pretty face. Whispers of her being an illegitimate child grew louder.


    In no time, the gossip took a wild turn, with some suggesting Evangeline was merely Cole''s goddaughter, a title that might mean one thing in public and quite another behind closed doors.


    Cole, once the renowned gambling king of Halcyonia, had built his empire on the roll of the dice. Back then, the borders were a wild frontier, and he wielded power like a king.


    His legendary gambling prowess hadnded him a spot as the son-inw of a local power yer, making him a force to be reckoned with.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 38

    Chapter 38Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Eventually, Cole left his gambling life behind and, with his friends, founded Foster Group. Thepany expanded rapidly, dominating the north and starting to clean. up its act.


    The Foster family became untouchable, a name thatmanded respect and fear alike.


    The old-timers at thepany were Cole''s original crew, the brothers-in-arms who had been through thick and thin with him.


    Back in their younger days, they thrived on freedom and carried that sameid-back attitude into their work, creating apany culture that broke the mold of traditional business.


    That meant things got done fast, but it was not without its share of dark corners.


    ofd.


    Evangeline was practically invisible to them in the conference room.


    A privileged princess, they had thought. Was she really up to the task of steering the Foster Group''s stormy ship?


    Amid the murmurs, a sudden thud echoed through the room.


    The middle-aged man who had been bbing that Evangeline was Cole''s goddaughter was kicked far away from behind.


    The room went dead quiet.


    All eyes turned to the woman standing at the doorway.


    d in a sleek ck suit and a skirt that hugged her figure, her long curls pulled back into a high ponytail, her eyes ented with a subtle flick, and her lips a natural shade, shemanded the room like a queen. Her beauty was striking, with a fierce charm that was impossible to ignore. Her poise and elegance were captivating, every inch of her radiating a maic pull.


    No one dared to interrupt, and it was not just because of Evangeline''s imposing presence-it was also because of the man behind her.


    That man was Asher, Cole''s right-hand man


    Evangeline barely gave the man agravsted of the floor a nce, "Mr. Campbell, send Nem ke 94 to kot pet his termination this afternoon


    David Zimmer, the employee on the ground went wide eyed. He recognized the stunning woman before him, but he could not ept that she hade to put him in his ce right off the bat. David was defiant.


    "What gives you the right to fire me? Back when I was in the trenches with the boss, you were probably still in diapers," David spat out with a mix of anger and disbelief.


    Evangeline let out a soft hum, a clear sign she was not someone to mess with. She looked down at him, her eyes icy. "I''m asking you nicely to head over to HR and quit. If you want to keep stirring the pot, believe me, I won''t hesitate to make your life a living nightmare"


    It was almost shocking to hear such a blunt threat from a girl barely in her twenties, but nobody dared to dismiss it. They all knew the Foster family''s power that stood with her.


    David, obviously shaken, scrambled to his feet. As he scurried out, he spat out a warning of his own, "This isn''t over."


    However, Evangeline was not fazed by his words. She was a Foster, forged in adversity, never one to cower. She strode to the head of the table as if it were her stage, settling into the chair with effortless grace.


    Her legs crossed, the family crest ring on her pinky catching the light, casting a regal chill.


    The room fell silent, captivated by her presence.


    It was a mystery. She was so young, yet none of the battle-hardened veterans dared to utter a word.


    She surveyed the room with an air of superiority, her presence asmanding as any lead character.


    "Let''s get one thing straight-you all know who I am. However, for formality''s sake, I''m Evangeline, Chairman Cole''s granddaughter. As of today, I''m stepping in as the acting president."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 39

    Chapter 39


    Evangeline''s gaze swept across the room as she spoke, sharp enough to keep everyone from looking her in the eye.


    Gone was the gentleposure she showed with the Gordon family, reced by the irond authority of a woman in charge


    "Any objections? Now''s the time to speak up." Evangeline stated calmly.


    With Cole''s right-hand man, Asher, standing behind her, his respect bordering on reverence, it was as though Cole himself had entered the room. Who would dare step out of line?


    After all, Cole, the notorious gambling tycoon, was a name that sent shivers down their spines. Cole might be bedridden, doting on Evangeline with every fiber of his being, but his reputation in the business and underground worlds was still formidable Everyone was convinced that she was Cole''s granddaughter, and her eyes-calm yet. piercing-were a mirror image of Cole''s own


    David, who had just been ousted, served as her first lesson to thepany. She did not even spare the old timers'' pride


    Who would dare cross her then?


    With no one voicing any dissent, Evangeline settled back into her chair with an air of rxed authority and signaled Asher to kick off the meeting


    Under Asher''s guidance, they quickly honed in on Foster Group''stest predicament.


    Strata King Group was nning to partner with Foster Group to take over Stonehill Bay and construct thergest man-


    made ind, creating the Kingdom of the Sea as a premier entertainment and vacation hub, envisioning it as the next big destination after Little Saint James Ind


    With the Foster family''s stocks in a nosedive half of the group had already cast their votes in favor, desperate for a strong alliance to turn the tide. The Kingdom of the Sea'' seemed like the perfect opportunity. Evangeline put the matter squarely on the table


    "Look, we all know the tight spot Foster Group is in," said Evangeline, her voice ringing with authority, "and don''t tell me you''re clueless about Strata King Group''s


    game n. If we sink our cash into Stonehill Bay, we''ll be stuck.


    "Meanwhile, Gordon Group will be gobbling up the market down south, and we''ll be left babysitting a stretch of ocean that''s not even open for business. The writing''s on the wall."


    The room was filled with nods of agreement. Thepany''s stock was in the gutter, and without a bold move, they would be limping through the next few months, watching their funds dwindle. They never should have branched out north.


    "So, ma''am, got any bright ideas?" someone called out from the sea of indecisive chatter.


    Cutting to the chase, Evangeline said, "The Stonehill Bay deal? Off the table, I''m speaking for my grandfather here, and it''s a hard no from us. Let''s shift our gaze. Out west is a ton of


    folks with no ess to decent healthcare. We can set up a charity medical center, make a big ssh with some PR, and team up with other do-gooders.


    "Nice speech, but charity costs money, too. Who in their right mind wants to y the generous fool?" a voice sneered from the crowd.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Evangeline''s response was as cool as a cucumber. "Short-term thinking gets us nowhere. I''ve already got Greenfield Group and Winchester Holding on the hook. They''ve promised to pitch in with the funding if we get the charity medical center up and running. That''ll be our ticket to push into the northwest market."


    The room buzzed with whispers as the crowd was taken aback. The Foster Group''s heiress had made her move in silence, but it was a game-changer. She had managed to bring Greenfield Group and Winchester Holding into the fold. While neither held the clout of the Foster empire, Winchester''s state-backed investments and nonpeting interests promised a partnership where everyone woulde out ahead.

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    Chapter 40


    "Let Strata King Group have their moment with that tempting opportunity. Once we''ve got our stock prices back on track, we''ll be back in the game stronger than ever," Evangeline mused, her fingers gently tracing the contours of the ring her grandfather had cherished for s "However, you know the saying that goes, ''Gordon rules the north, Foster owns the


    south. Strata King may be the brainchild of Walter Gordon, but it''s the Gordon family that''s pulling the strings. They''ve outpaced the original Gordon Group and now sit at the top of Halcyonia''s corporatedder.


    "If we challenge Strata King, we''re challenging the Gordons head-


    on. And despite the old bonds between our families, in business, there''s no room for stepping aside. If we abandon the northern markets for charity work in the northwest, what will that say about the Foster name?" someone said.


    "Who''s saying I''m ducking Strata King Group? That''s the biggestugh I''ve had all day!" In that instant, Evangeline''s dormantpetitive edge roared to life.


    Her gaze was fierce as she swept it over the crowd. "The northern market? Consider it imed by Foster Group."


    She understood her grandfather''s determination to expand north-it was all for her sake.


    With the Foster family''s roots deep in the southern soil, and her own marriage taking her far from home, her grandfather had feared she would be left without a safety. That was why he had pushed northward.


    "Today, I might let Strata King Group snag a juicy morsel, but tomorrow, I''ll make Walter regret it. He''ll cough up everyst bite he''s taken."


    Someday, she would repay Walter for every bit of trouble he had caused her.


    ''Walter, I''ll see you on the battlefield of business, Evangeline vowed silently, with a steely resolve.


    At her words, a shiver ran through the room, and no one dared to speak up.


    She was every!


    the Foster heiress-fierce and unflinching. Not even Walter, a


    giant in his own right, could intimidate her.


    "Another thing. My grandfather''s health scare is behind him, and he''s out of the woods. If anyone''s thinking of jumping ship, now''s the time. If you''re staying, keep it straight.


    "Just a friendly heads-up: it won''t be long before the chairman reims his seat. And he''s not like me-he doesn''t have a soft spot like a woman might. Betray Foster Group now, and you might just disappear without a trace," Evangeline dered with icy rity. The room fell into a deathly silence.


    No further objections were raised.


    Who would have guessed that seemingly spoiled heiress couldmand the room with just a few sentences?


    Evangeline was wiped out after a marathon of meetings, sinking into her office chair. like a deted balloon. Yet, the documents kepting, and she powered through them with sheer willpower.


    She could not afford to let a single slip-up ruin the day''s hard-won progress, especially with Asher and Wade pitching in.


    Wade flipped through a report and said, "About setting up the charity medical project, the nning team thinks we should get a star to plug it, really crank up the outreach."


    She nodded. "Smart move. Let''s test the waters on a few tforms. However, we''ve got to snag someone with star power and a squeaky-clean rep."


    Wade pointed to a couple of suggestions in the document, "We''ve got Julia, the violin prodigy fresh from abroad, but she''ll cost us a pretty penny. Then there''s Casey Lane, the new darling of the silver screen. Roslyn''s name had been in the running too, but after her recent fiasco, she was out of the picture.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Julia?" Evangeline let out a derisive snort. She was out of the loop that the otherworldly Julia had thrown her hat into the showbiz ring.


    "Yes," Wade stammered, "the team didn''t know about the bad blood between you two."


    With a dismissive nce and without raising her head, Evangeline said, "Scrap Julia.


    Bring in Casey."


    "Will do. Oh, and Miss, the Foster family''s charity g tonight is basically your bigeback as their darling daughter. You''ve got to shine as the heir. The Gordons will be there, too." "Got it, handle it," she said, already thinking ahead to the evening''s event.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 41

    Chapter 40


    "Let Strata King Group have their moment with that tempting opportunity. Once we''ve got our stock prices back on track, we''ll be back in the game stronger than ever," Evangeline mused, her fingers gently tracing the contours of the ring her grandfather had cherished for s "However, you know the saying that goes, ''Gordon rules the north, Foster owns the


    south. Strata King may be the brainchild of Walter Gordon, but it''s the Gordon family that''s pulling the strings. They''ve outpaced the original Gordon Group and now sit at the top of Halcyonia''s corporatedder.


    "If we challenge Strata King, we''re challenging the Gordons head-


    on. And despite the old bonds between our families, in business, there''s no room for stepping aside. If we abandon the northern markets for charity work in the northwest, what will that say about the Foster name?" someone said. "Who''s saying I''m ducking Strata King Group? That''s the biggestugh I''ve had all day!" In that instant, Evangeline''s dormantpetitive edge roared to life.


    Her gaze was fierce as she swept it over the crowd. "The northern market? Consider it imed by Foster Group."


    She understood her grandfather''s determination to expand north-it was all for her sake.


    With the Foster family''s roots deep in the southern soil, and her own marriage taking her far from home, her grandfather had feared she would be left without a safety. That was why he had pushed northward.


    "Today, I might let Strata King Group snag a juicy morsel, but tomorrow, I''ll make Walter regret it. He''ll cough up everyst bite he''s taken."


    Someday, she would repay Walter for every bit of trouble he had caused her.


    ''Walter, I''ll see you on the battlefield of business, Evangeline vowed silently, with a steely resolve.


    At her words, a shiver ran through the room, and no one dared to speak up.


    She was


    every!? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    the Foster heiress-fierce and unflinching. Not even Walter, a


    giant in his own right, could intimidate her.


    "Another thing. My grandfather''s health scare is behind him, and he''s out of the


    woods. If anyone''s thinking of jumping ship, now''s the time. If you''re staying, keep it straight.


    "Just a friendly heads-up: it won''t be long before the chairman reims his seat. And he''s not like me-he doesn''t have a soft spot like a woman might. Betray Foster Group now, and you might just disappear without a trace," Evangeline dered with icy rity. The room fell into a deathly silence.


    No further objections were raised.


    Who would have guessed that seemingly spoiled heiress couldmand the room with just a few sentences?


    Evangeline was wiped out after a marathon of meetings, sinking into her office chair. like a deted balloon. Yet, the documents kepting, and she powered through them with sheer willpower.


    She could not afford to let a single slip-up ruin the day''s hard-won progress, especially with Asher and Wade pitching in.


    Wade flipped through a report and said, "About setting up the charity medical project, the nning team thinks we should get a star to plug it, really crank up the outreach."


    She nodded. "Smart move. Let''s test the waters on a few tforms. However, we''ve got to snag someone with star power and a squeaky-clean rep."


    Wade pointed to a couple of suggestions in the document, "We''ve got Julia, the violin prodigy fresh from abroad, but she''ll cost us a pretty penny. Then there''s Casey Lane, the new darling of the silver screen. Roslyn''s name had been in the running too, but after her recent fiasco, she was out of the picture.


    "Julia?" Evangeline let out a derisive snort. She was out of the loop that the otherworldly Julia had thrown her hat into the showbiz ring.


    "Yes," Wade stammered, "the team didn''t know about the bad blood between you


    two."


    With a dismissive nce and without raising her head, Evangeline said, "Scrap Julia.


    Bring in Casey."


    "Will do. Oh, and Miss, the Foster family''s charity g tonight is basically your bigeback as their darling daughter. You''ve got to shine as the heir. The Gordons will be there, too." "Got it, handle it," she said, already thinking ahead to the evening''s event.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 42

    Chapter 42


    "Let her," Walter snapped, his face set in a hard line as he shot Oscar a withering look.


    Oscar bit back any further objections, getting the message loud and clear. "Alright, alright. I''ll make sure the missus hears about tonight."


    Walter was at it again, trying to rile up Evangeline with Julia''s presence. Could that really work? Somehow, he doubted it.


    The clock struck seven-thirty, and the Foster family''s charity auction kicked off right on schedule in Capital City. The venue was the famed Victoria Garden House, a ce that once echoed with the


    harmonious melodies of flutes and zithers. The crowd was a parade of the elite, each person a vision of beauty and stature, adhering to a strict height requirement. d in traditional gray-blue garb, they looked like figures stepped out of a painting, a feast for the eyes.


    Victoria Garden House was no ordinary venue, a gem hidden from the grasp of the average elite, and Julia,cking such insider knowledge, dressed in an embarrassingly simr fashion to the staff.


    While the servers donned gray-blue, Julia''s attire, though traditional, was of a soft crescent hue. The only thing setting her apart was the delicate embroidery on her dress, which did little to ease her difort as she stood beside Walter.


    Walter, for his part, offered noment, his attention briefly passing over her..


    Even so, his mere presence sent ripples through the room.


    He was Walter, after all, Halcyonia''s most prized prodigy.


    As the auctionmenced and the crowd settled, Julia took her seat beside Walter, instantly bing the focus of a paparazzi storm.


    Every move Walter made was headline material, stirring envy and awe.. His talent and looks had granted him stardom in the corporate and entertainment worlds. It seemed unfair that one man could monopolize such gifts.


    The woman in the crescent attire, Julia, also drew the crowd''s gaze. She was theN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    violin prodigy whose fame had surged since her return from abroad.


    Walter''s appearances were rare, and whispers of him


    nd Julia had been confined to the upper echelons. However, their story was out in the open for all to see on this night.


    Julia sidled up to Walter, her closeness a calcted move that turned heads. throughout the room.


    "Walt, I nailed the interview for the Foster Group spokesperson gig, but the young heiress booted me before I even started. Did I rub her the wrong way? Could you smooth things over for me?" said Julia, her voice dripping with sweetness as she yfully pulled at his arm. "You think I''m chummy with that Ms. Foster?" replied Walter, his tone indifferent and detached.


    "But your grandpa and the Fosters are..."


    "Ms. Foster and I are at loggerheads," Walter cut in icily.


    "What? That can''t be! I''m so sorry, Walt. I had no clue. If I''d known you two were at odds, I wouldn''t have considered Foster Group. I thought it''d be a great kick-off for my career... Is she snubbing me because of you?" Julia''s voice was tender, almost fragile.


    "It''s just a spokesperson job. I''ll find something else for you," said Walter, dismissing the issue with ease. He always did what he could for Julia, ever since he owed her a big favor. He looked after her like a sister, always ready to lend a hand. Julia was well aware of Walter''s Achilles'' heel and often probed for his breaking point, with a mix of innocence and calction.


    Despite her efforts, she had not yet cashed in on that old favor, but she was patient. As long as she remained by Walter''s side, it was only a matter of time before she would be his. After all, she was the one sitting beside him, a fact that was clear for the entire world to see.


    Evangeline was once seen as nothing more than a shadow lurking in the dark corners of the world, never meant to bask in the sunlight.


    Julia''s craving for attention was fed by the relentless shes of the cameras, each burst inting her ego.


    However, as the main event kicked off, the spotlight was stolen by two figures


    striding down the red carpet.


    Julia''s moment of glory faded into obscurity.


    Walter''s face twisted into a scowl as he caught sight of themotion.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 43

    Chapter 43


    The evening''s esteemed hosts, the Fosters, had made their entrance.


    Evangeline, stunning in a ck gown that made her porcin skin glow, walked hand-in-hand with James. She was a vision, her figure and poise conjuring images of an enchantress from a fairy tale. The ne she wore, with its massive blue gemstone nked by diamonds, was a showstopper, leaving women in awe.


    James, herpanion, was the epitome of sophistication in his wine-red designer suit and gold-rimmed sses, his handsome features rivaling the heartthrobs of Hollywood.


    Together, they were a breathtaking pair, stealing the show effortlessly.


    Julia''s aura paled inparison, and her envy boiled over. Why did Evangeline always have to outshine her? "Walt, look, isn''t that Evangeline? What''s she doing with the Fosters?" taunted Julia, noticing Walter''s displeasure. A chilling dread settled over Walter.


    So James was a Foster after all. That exined his confidence and audacity to challenge Walter head-on.


    Julia was incensed. There was no way she would let Evangeline bask in the limelight.


    "You two haven''t even finalized your divorce yet. How dare she cozy up to another man? Where does that leave you? It''s downright embarrassing." Her words wereced with outrage as if Evangeline''s actions had smeared her own reputation. "Walt, shouldn''t we give her a little nudge about her image? We wouldn''t want her to drag the Gordon family name through the mud. It''d be such an ugly rumor."


    Julia had turned into a self-appointed crusader for decency.


    "No need," said Walter, his gaze smoldering. "If she''s bold enough to act this way, she''s prepared for the fallout."


    How could Evangeline shamelessly flirt with another man for all to see?


    He had expected the Foster family''s heiress to show up, but to his shock, it was


    James.


    James had brought Evangeline along, a surprise that clenched Walter''s fists tight.


    Julia, catching sight of Walter''s dark scowl, felt a twinge of glee..


    This was it. Walter and Evangeline were finished. Why should a woman as flighty as Evangeline deserve Walter? Julia was convinced that she and Walter were the only true match in that world.


    The crowd and the press were abuzz, trying to pin down the identity of James''s stunning escort.


    ?


    "Can you believe it? Mr. James Foster, of all people, a scion of the prestigious Foster family!"


    "And his date, who is she? She''s absolutely gorgeous. It''s like she stepped out of a fairy tale, a mix of queen and princess!"


    "Is she the next big thing, groomed by some entertainment tycoon, debuting at Victoria Garden House today? Just imagine, rubbing shoulders with the elite here could pave her way to stardom, as long as she steers clear of any bad deals." "Could be! However, what if she''s the elusive Ms. Foster?"


    *No chance! Ms. Foster, the heiress of the Foster dynasty, wouldn''t fly under the radar. Just look at her, clinging to Mr. James Foster like she''s his shadow..."


    "Ms. Foster''s always been an enigma, missing even from a bash like this!"


    Everyone agreed on one thing: They could not picture the once-haughty Ms. Foster blending into the background.


    Evangeline kept mum.


    She never wanted the spotlight on her true identity. It would only spell trouble.


    At this g, the Foster family''s grand finale auction piece was none other than the ne gracing Evangeline''s neck.


    A strand of sapphires worth a fortune, its sale destined to support a charity medical fund out West.


    Bidding kicked off at a cool 30 million dors.


    With Evangeline showcasing it, the crowd caught on-she was a model!


    Her neck, as graceful as a swan''s, was made for that sapphire masterpiece.


    "Thirty-four million five hundred thousand dors!"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "Thirty-seven million five hundred thousand dors!"


    Each new bid sent a jolt through the crowd, their excitement boiling over, torn between the allure of the stunning model and the coveted sapphire ne. "Forty-five million dors," announced James, his hand lifting the bidding paddle with effortless grace.


    It was a Foster Group piece up for auction, meant to do nothing more than parade before the crowd before being reimed by its original owners.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 44

    Chapter 44


    "Sixty million dors."


    The room hushed in an instant. Walter was the one who bid, casting a challenging look at James and Evangeline, a smirk ying on his lips, his eyes set on the Foster Group''s treasured heirloom.


    James caught Walter''s challenging gaze, as sharp as a thorn, and then shared a knowing look with Evangeline. With her silent nod he countered, "Sixty-seven million five hundred thousand dors." ["Seventy-five million dors," Walter shot back, lifting his paddle once more.


    The auction had turned into a private war between the Gordon family and Foster Group. The rest of the crowd, recognizing the futility ofpeting, bowed out. gracefully.


    The sapphire ne, rare as it was, should not fetch more than 30 million at its peak. The current bid was astronomical, way beyond the ne''s worth. No one else was willing to y the fool and foot that bill.


    Encouraged by a subtle cue from Evangeline, the two headstrong men kept upping the ante until the price hit a staggering 120 million dors. Julia, beside herself with worry, nearly lunged to snatch the paddle from Walter''s grip, her entire frame quivering. 120 million dor Finally, Walter Gordon snagged the Foster Group''s prized heirloom for a cool 135 million dors. James watched him, a touch of regret in his shrug, but his smile did not fade as he passed the charity ambassador badge to Walter.


    Evangeline, quick as ever, slipped off her ne and gave Walter a yful wink. Well, I''ll be, Mr. Walter Gordon, you''ve turned out to be quite the phnthropist!"


    Walter was not born yesterday. He knew he had been yed by Evangeline and


    James.


    However, what was 135 million to a man like him? Nothing.


    It was just that sight of Evangeline, standing by James, cheering him on-that really got under his skin.


    "What a shame. I was nning to win that ne for you, but it looks like that''s off the table now." James chimed in, patting Evangeline''s head with a fond smile.


    When James'' gazended on Walter, it turned icy,ced with sarcasm. "Mr. Walter Gordon, your willingness to drop a whopping one hundred thirty-


    five million dors. on our family''s treasure, well, that''s destiny for you. Who else in the world has the heart to throw around that amount to help those in need in the mountains?


    "The Foster Group''s soon-to-beunched Charity Care Medical Association owes you one big thank you."


    Who would have guessed the charity fund would take off without a hitch? Foster Group barely had to dip into its coffers, thanks to Walter picking up most of the tab.


    James could not help but marvel at Evangeline''s ingenuity. ''She''s a sharp one, my niece,'' he mused with a hint of pride.


    Walter''s lips twisted into a frosty smile as he casually dismissed the praise. "Oh, it''s nothing. Gordon Group wouldn''t be where it is without everyone''s backing. It''s only fair we do our part for themunity. "Nheless, you seem to be up to your ears at work these days, Mr. James Foster!"


    Their smiles were polite, but the air crackled with tension.


    Walter''sment was a veiled jab, and James knew it. Hisw firm was indeed in a tight spot, and Walter''s knowledge of it meant he had either been snooping around or he was the mastermind behind the troubles.


    Still, James maintained hisposure, taking a leisurely sip of his wine and responding with a frosty chuckle, "Lawyering is just a side gig for me. If it gets too much, I''ll just step back into the family empire."


    He paused for effect, then with a pointed look added, "Though, rest assured, I''ve got plenty of time to wrap up your divorce from Evangeline before I bow out."


    As they continued their verbal sparring over drinks, Julia picked up on the underlying strain.


    Meanwhile, Evangeline stepped out from the circle of power yers, instantly bing the center of attention. The spotlight seemed to follow her every move. Curious nces and whispers about her connection with James buzzed around the room, but she navigated the


    answer.


    Julia might as well have been a ghost for all the attention she got as she marched toward Walter. Every eye in the room, including James''s and Walter''s, was fixed on


    Evang��line, the enigmatic beauty who stood out like a rare ck swan among them.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Seething, Julia tried to snatch Walter away, but he shrugged her off and stepped in front of Evangeline.


    "I need to talk to you," he said, his voice low and urgent.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 45

    Chapter 45


    "Oh, Mr. Walter Gordon, do you have some secrets that can''t stand the light of day?" Evangeline''s voice dripped with scorn.


    Walter''s expression turned stormy, a dark cloud over his features.


    Before the stunned crowd, he pulled Evangeline away without so much as a second- thought, leaving a ripple of shock in their wake.


    Their marriage was a well-kept secret, known only to a select few. Walter whisking her away like that had set tongues wagging.


    It was not until they reached the seclusion of the stairwell that Evangeline wrenched herself free, inwardly cursing him as a ''damn guy'', Her wrist was red where he had gripped it.


    "Are you out of your mind, Walter?" she eximed. "Leaving your sweetheart behind like that, aren''t you worried about the rumors?"


    vou''re the one who''s lost it! Have you forgotten who you are, Mrs. Walter Gordon? unting yourself for another man, do you think that''s fitting?" Walter shot back, matching her sarcasm with his own.


    Evangeline''s ck coat fluttered like wings in the cool night air. Under the glow of the moon, she seemed to radiate light, her red lips bewitching and alluring.


    Walter''s biting words stung Evangeline, but she brushed them off with a dismissive chuckle. "Mr. Walter Gordon, aren''t you being a little double-


    standard here? You''re aware you''re still married, right? unting your affair as if it''s something to be proud of. Or do you need me to spread the word about your scandalous escapades?


    "Or maybe, Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re just upset that the one hundred thirty-five million dors you blew on Julia wasn''t a good investment? Got a bruised ego?"? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    She was all poise andposure as she met his gaze.


    Walter''s lips were a tight, icy line as he cornered her against the wall, the darkness enveloping them, his frosty breath like a st from the underworld.


    He was overpowering, his body like a wall behind her. "What''s one hundred thirty-five million dors? If you, Mrs. Walter Gordon, could be a little more generous, I wouldn''t care if it were one billion thirty-five million dors." He was annoyed by her


    ress as if it were a personal affront. "Mrs. Walter Gordon,


    didn''t I''make myself clear about cutting ties with James? Or did my words just fly past your ears?"


    She had not ended things with James, and then there she was, boldly showing up at the Foster family''s event.


    "What, eager to join the Foster family before the ink on the divorce papers is dry? You think they''re in the market for someone''s leftovers?" Walter spat out more venom.


    "Walter! You''re such a jerk!" Evangeline shot back with fire in her voice.


    "And you can be even more of a jerk! Get out of that dress!"


    "Have you lost your mind?" Evangeline snapped back.


    "Do you want me to help you undress?" Walter''s fingers tightened on her chin, yanking her face toward his as he nibbled on her earlobe.


    Evangeline''s anger surged, and she was ready tosh out, but Walter had read her like an open book. "If you''re not up for it, thene home with me."


    "Home? That''s the Gordon mansion, not my home!" Evangeline shot back with fierce determination.


    Walter whipped out his phone and, with Evangeline watching, called Dr. George.


    "You''re desperate for Dr. George to treat your grandfather, right? Well, Dr. George works for me. I can bring him to your grandpa''s bedside, or I can make him disappear," said Walter, his threat as clear as ss. Evangeline went white as a sheet. Her grandfather''s health was hanging by a thread, and Dr. George was their only hope. She reached for Walter, her voice shaking." You''re the lowest of the low, Walter!" "Low? Seems like you''ve forgotten our little deal. You''re the one who broke the rules first," Walter shot back.


    Evangeline bit back a curse. What a jerk!


    She must have been blind to ever trust him!


    Once her grandfather was well, she would make Walter regret that.


    Despite Evangeline''s skimpy outfit, Walter slipped off his suit jacket and ced it over her shoulders, guiding her downstairs.


    "Walt, are you heading out?" Julia spotted them leaving and quickly stepped in their path.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 46

    hapter 46


    Julia''s mind raced. If Walter just whisked Evangeline away like that, it would be a p in her face.


    That night was her chance to show everyone who was in charge. She could not let Evangeline, that homewrecker, outshine her.


    *Go ahead, hail a cab on your own." Walter did not even nce back, leaving Julia seething with envy and rage as she watched them from behind.


    Evangeline stormed home alongside Walter, her anger simmering.


    To her surprise, the moment they arrived, Walter flung a fancy jewelry box at her as if it were nothing more than garbage.


    She instantly recognized it as the case for the sapphire ne.


    "Here, take it. Not everyone''s keen on second-hand stuff, so let''s call it charity," said Walter indifferently.


    Yet, despite his biting words and the fact that 135 million dors was a drop in the bucket for him, Evangeline felt a pang. That ne was not just any trinket. It was the Foster family''s treasured heirloom, a wedding gift from her grandfather,den with meaning. She was done with Walter and had hoped to make him the fall guy, getting what she wanted without any strings attached.


    However, she had not expected that he had not bought the ne for Julia.


    ying with the jewelry box, Evangeline quirked an eyebrow. "Somehow, I get the feeling Julia would''ve liked it."


    After all, Julia had practically begged Walter to drape the ne around her neck when he won the bid. It was clear she was smitten.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    To Walter, 135 million was trivial, but for Julia, it was a different story.


    Walter, buried in paperwork and casting an icy look without raising his eyes, scoffed." She''s worth more than that! You think I''d give her your hand-me-downs? And who said it was a gift for you? I just wanted you to hold onto it!"


    Walter''s tone had lost its usual chill, reced by a warmth that was hard to catch unless she was looking for it.


    Evangeline, feeling cheeky, whispered right by Walter''s ear, "Oh, I nearly forgot we''re still married. Getting this ne back from me won''t be a walk in the park!


    "Or maybe you think it looks prettier on me than on Julia?"


    Walter''s face turned stormy at her yful jab.


    He yanked her close, his grip firm on her chin as he scolded, "I never noticed how full. of yourself you were."


    However, Evangeline was just stirring the pot. A devilish grin spread across her face as she seductively perched on hisp, her body swaying gently. "That''s right, I''m full of myself. Still better than you, Mr. Walter Gordon, with your double talk, huh?" Walter''s pulse raced. He loosened his tie, his fingers tracing the contours of Evangeline''s lovely face. "Evangeline, are you asking for trouble? Trying to tempt me again?"


    She had tried so hard before, and he had always resisted. With divorce on the horizon, she had nothing to lose. She wanted to drive him wild, to strip Julia of everything. Evangeline boldly yanked off his tie, and Walter, his gaze intense, leaned in to kiss her neck. However, the shrill ring of the phone shattered the moment.


    Walter did not want to pick up, but the insistent ringing forced him to.


    With a grimace, he took the call.


    It was Julia, her voice breaking with tears, "Walt, I..."


    Hearing her, Evangeline sank her teeth into Walter''s throat.


    Walter gasped for air, his breathsing in sharp, desperate pulls. "Ngh..."


    Evangeline was ying a dangerous game, her touch deliberate, bold, and then sliding lower to seize him firmly.


    Charter &

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 47

    Chapter 47


    As if that was not enough, Evangeline let out a couple of low, suggestive moans.


    A tidal wave of shock surged in Walter''s eyes. He grabbed her hand with a stern look, his voice rough with barely contained frustration, "Evangeline, cut it out..."


    Then, Julia''s voice shattered the tense air.


    "What the heck are you two doing?!" she shrieked, "Walt..."


    On the other end of the line, Julia was a mess, her words tangled in sobs. Her mother, Lydia, took the phone from her, her voice thick with tears as she exined the night''s horrors. After the charity dinner, Julia had been forced into a car by strangers. If not for a random traffic police checkpoint, she might have been assaulted by the men inside.


    Julia, naive and unprepared for such horror, was frozen with fear.


    Back home, overwhelmed by shame and anger, she had tried to take her own life, but Lydia found her just in time. They then rushed to the hospital, Julia still in the throes of panic.


    "Walter, you''ve got to help our Julia. She''s never faced anything like this. She only went to that dinner for you, and look what happened. You owe her," Lydia pleaded.


    "Mom, please... Don''t bother him about this. I''d rather die!" Julia''s voice cracked with raw emotion.


    "It is his business! If he hadn''t asked you out, would those thugs have gotten to you? "Walter, you need to talk to Julia. She''s talking about leaving you, saying she doesn''t want to live!" Lydia''s cries tore through the phone, Hearing the full story, Walter''s frown deepened into a scowl.


    Evangeline had done it. She had gotten under Julia''s skin just as she had intended.


    She stopped her teasing and slowly slid off Walter''sp, her hips swaying as she said her goodbyes and walked away.


    To her surprise, his hand shot out and held her fast.


    He did it on purpose. She had gott


    without hesitation.


    him all worked up, and he pinned her down


    Her light dress was no barrier. Her panties were the only thing between her and the rough fabric of his pants, which then pressed insistently against her thighs.


    She tried to pull away, but she was stuck.


    "Release me, Walter!" Evangeline''s voice rang out.


    "You''re the one who started this, and now you want to run?" he challenged.


    Walter ended his phone call.


    "Oh, really? So Julia doesn''t matter to you? Let''s just keep going then!" She was


    determined to see what he would do "


    Evangeline did not buy the act for a second. The security at Victoria Garden House was top-notch, and no one in their right mind would attempt a kidnapping As expected, her words hit home, and Walter''s heat faded.


    He let go of her hand.


    here.


    "She''s your sister, and I''m partly to me for her trouble. It wouldn''t be right for me to stay. Wait for me at home," said Walter, deciding to leave after all. "Walter, are you certain?" Evangeline looked up at him, her eyes growing impassive.


    "Don''t start with me now," he scolded, his own eyes turning icily distant.


    However, Evangeline, feeling a familiar despair, just smiled hollowly.


    She had promised herself not to hope anymore, yet there she was, hurt by her own expectations. She had no one to me but herself.


    The light at the doorway flickered out as Walter left. Evangeline, once again alone in the dark, snapped back to reality. She dialed Roslyn''s number.


    "Hey, Evie, what''s going on?" Roslyn''s voice crackled, a cacophony of bar sounds in the background.


    "Got ns tonight? How about we grab a drink to toast?" Evangeline suggested.


    "A toast to what?" Roslyn''s voice boomed over the noise, and Evangeline could tell she was already out bar-hopping.


    "Julia tried to off herself by shing her wrists today. Let''s toast to her nearly crossing over," said Evangeline with a nonchnce that belied the gravity of the situation


    "Damn right, we''ll toast! Send me where you are. I''ll pick you up, and we''re hitting the town. We''re noting back till we''re stered, Roslyn replied, a surge of excitement in her voice.


    She sounded like she would not mind giving Julia a few extra kicks if she could.


    Roslyn zoomed to Evangeline''s ce, decked out in a shy blue racing outfit.


    Evangeline stared at her, baffled. "I thought we were going out for drinks. What''s with the getup? You look like you''re about to hit the racetrack."T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Roslyn''s grin was irrepressible. "That was the n, but I nearly forgot the big event today. My hero, Jordan Baker, is racing at Sunlit Heights. I snagged a ticket, and today, I''m going to be right there with him."


    Evangeline tapped her chin thoughtfully. Roslyn, with her knockout looks, had never really dated. To Evangeline''s knowledge, Roslyn''s crushes were all dreamy actors. from the silver screen, a list too long to bother counting. Shockingly, she seemed to have fallen for someone in the flesh.


    With a mock-serious look, Evangeline quipped, "Well, look at that. The child has grown up and started pursuing her own ideas!"


    "Oh, cut it out. I''m not a child!" Roslyn''s eyes sparkled at the mention of Jordan." Jordan''s just twenty-one, a real young thing." "You''re twenty-three, you know. You''re on the fast track to bing the cougar snagging the young prey," Evangeline shot back. They bantered back and forth, all the way to Sunlit Heights.


    Back at the hospital, Walter was stuck with a weeping Julia, her face drenched in tears, which made him grimace.


    A delicate beauty in distress was charming, but one who did nothing but sob wore out her wee fast.


    Walter had thought Julia was gravely hurt, so he had dashed to the hospital, leaving behind an Evangeline who was just beginning to thaw. It even sparked a fight between them.


    However, when he got there, he found Julia''s ''suicide attempt'' was just a tiny scratch on her wrist that would have healed if he hade anyter.


    Sure, she was shaken, but after trying to soothe her, Walter felt drained, especially with Julia clinging to him like a lifeline.


    When Evangeline reached Sunlit Heights, she was surprised to find Roslyn had set aside an outfit for her. Even a race car was revved up and ready to go.


    "Why do I get the feeling you''ve been here waiting just for me?" Who else would mix drinking with racing,plete with a full racing suit and car at the ready?


    "Hey, drinking''s fun, racing''s fun-both are great ways to celebrate," Roslyn deflected with a grin. "Come on, Evangeline. Do me this solid, okay?"


    "You''re gonna have to spell it out for me-what exactly are you dragging me into?" asked Evangeline, her tone edged with annoyance.

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    Chapter 48


    With no other choice, Roslynid it all out.


    It turned out that Roslyn had recently shifted her obsession from anime to the adrenaline-pumping world of real-life racing, fixating on a racer named Jordan, who was also rumored to be a college student. However, Jordan was a tough cookie, too proud to race unless thepetition was fierce.


    However, Roslyn was not one to back down from a challenge. She knew her best friend Evangeline was a powerhouse behind the wheel. Thus, she spread the word. that the enigmatic racing goddess would be gracing Sunlit Heights with her presence and even sent a che Evangeline was in high spirits, so she let herself be swept up to the racetrack.


    "Seriously, Jordan''s a total babe, like a heartthrob straight out of a magazine," gushed Roslyn, her eyes practically sparkling.


    Evangeline chuckled in response. "Okay, okay, keep it together-you''re almost drooling. I''ll join in. Might as well chill out a bit."


    Evangeline''s love affair with racing began at 16, a bittersweet gift from her grandfather to help her cope with her grandmother''s passing. The sports car became her


    escape, her way to race the wind. She might not have had formal training, but her raw talent was undeniable, even among the pros.


    "Evangeline, you''re simply the best," said Roslyn with a warm smile, yfully swinging their linked arms back and forth.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Just then, her phone buzzed with a new message,plete with an image.


    Evangeline''s eyes narrowed at the sight of Julia''s profile picture. What drama was she stirring up? She imed she was on the brink of suicide, yet there she was, messaging with gusto.


    With a flicker of annoyance, Evangeline tapped open the message, her arching involuntarily.


    eyebrow


    Predictably, Julia had sent a photo of herself and Walter in a tight embrace-one tear-streaked and pitiful, the other offering patientfort.


    The caption was dripping with sentiment. [Life can be tough, but with you by my side, I can face tomorrow with courage.]


    She had even tagged Evangeline. [Don''t worry too much, Sis. Your ex is taking great care of me.]


    A frosty smirk yed on Evangeline''s lips. The photo''s sneaky angle was a dead giveaway of its true intent.


    Walter, the poor sap, had fallen right into the trap. Maybe he enjoyed ying the hero, leaving her to her own devices in the room. With a swipe, she deleted the message. Out of sight, out of mind.


    Helmet on, her bright eyes were the only thing visible.


    Tonight, the so-called Jordan that Roslyn had mentioned had indeed shown up at the racetrack, brimming with youthful bravado.


    With half an hour to go before the race, Evangeline caught Jordan eyeing her and Roslyn.


    "Which one of you is the queen of the racetrack?" Jordan called out.


    Both women had striking figures, and it was easy to imagine the stunning faces hidden beneath their helmets.


    Evangeline could not shake the feeling that she knew that voice.


    Roslyn, uncharacteristically silent, said nothing. On the other hand, Evangeline grinned and replied, "Beat me on the track, and you can call me your goddess." The moment Evangeline''s voice filled the air, Jordan''s eyes widened in shock. Without missing a beat, he whipped out his phone and captured her image.


    "Hey, kid, you''re stepping on my right to privacy here," said Evangeline.


    "Come on, it''s just your eyes showing. I''m just keeping a memory," Jordan retorted, not the least bit ashamed.


    A beep from Walter''s phone cut through the next second.


    Walter had just dodged Julia''s clutches at the hospital and found his way home, only to discover Evangeline had vanished. Clueless about where to start looking, his phone lit up with a photo from Caden. [Caden: Check out this shadow. Doesn''t it look just like Mrs. Walter Gordon? Even


    sounds like her. Blew my mind.]

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    apter 49


    [Walter: Where are you all at?]


    [Caden: I''m tearing up the track at Sunlit Heights. Don''t you daree and ruin my fun. If she''s not Mrs. Walter Gordon, I''m shooting my shot with both thesedies.]


    [Walter: You''re really going for it, huh?]


    Jordan, who was really Caden in disguise, could easily pass for some carefree youth. His family was high-profile, and they would flip if they knew he was risking his neck in races. They would rather see him confined to a wheelchair than reduced to ashes in


    an urn.


    Staring at the photo, Walter''s gut told him it was Evangeline. That unmistakable, killer figure could only belong to her, and it clicked-he remembered her dramatic motorcycle exit thest time she stirred up trouble.


    A wild urge surged through him, powerful and unstoppable.


    Walter slipped into his racing gear and roared out of the garage on his long- neglected bike, gunning it towards Sunlit Heights.


    ''If that is you out there, Evangeline, ready to throw down, count me in.'' Walter''s mind raced with the thought.


    At Sunlit Heights.


    "Time to get this show on the road," said Evangeline as she checked her watch, with Jordan still glued to his phone. She was not there for an easy win. "Hold up, I''ve got a friend on the way. He''s the king of the road. You''re in for a treat today," bragged Jordan, his cockiness reced by a hint of respect.


    No sooner had he spoken than a sleek, custom bike whipped into ce at the starting line, its turn executed with effortless ir.


    "There he is," announced Jordan.


    "Nice move on that bend," said Evangeline, a note of genuine appreciation in her voice. However, her expression soured as she caught sight of the rider''s face beneath the helmet. 1/2


    Those deep, icy eyes could only belong to Walter, the man she had pined for all those years. She could not be wrong.


    Evangeline''s thoughts churned. ''What''s he doing here? Shouldn''t he be at the hospital with his sweetheart? Can''t I ever catch a break? He''s like a ghost that won''t leave." Still, seeing him on a bike was a surprise.


    "Today''s race is a sh of titans, no gender barriers, just purepetition. It''d be a shame not to raise the stakes!" the referee chimed in, a thrill seeker invited by Jordan.


    "Let''s make it interesting. If our goddess lones, she owes each of us a candlelit dinner. And if our god loses, well, if he can''t beat a girl, he''ll take a victoryp around the mountaintop in his boxers. How''s that?" The crowd roared with approval.


    The crowd was buzzing with anticipation, all eager to see the racing goddess in action.


    Nobody thought Jordan could be beaten.


    Both Jordan and the friend he often bragged about were rumored to have skills that rivaled the pros.


    Evangeline shed Walter a taunting thumbs-down.


    "Hey buddy, don''t lose." She smirked inwardly. ''Perfect timing. I''ve been itching for at chance to crush him!"N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "No worries. I''m looking forward to you taking off that helmet and joining me for dinner." He found her challenging stance not only angry but oddly charming.


    "I''m sure I''ll enjoy the view from the top. Just don''t freeze your little tall off," retorted. Evangeline with a chillingugh, determined to leave Walter in the dust-or worse. "Let''s get this show on the road!"

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    Chapter 50


    At the shrill st of the whistle, a dozen bikes shot off like unleashed beasts, kicking up a storm of dust.


    Roslyn''s bike picked the worst time to act up, leaving her stranded. She shrugged it off, knowing she could not outpace Jordan anyway. She revved up her cheers and sent a drone to capture the action. The mountain was swarmed with fans, all there to witness the sh of the titans.


    The race did not disappoint, delivering heart-pounding thrills, especially from the leaders who drove with wild abandon.


    Walter, the dark horse, had surged ahead, overtaking Jordan and leaving Evangeline trailing.


    However, Evangeline was not one to give up easily. She made a daring move on a high-speed curve, flirting with the edge of a cliff.


    Sparks scattered in a wild dance as Evangeline leaned into the turn, her knees a whisper away from kissing the asphalt. Walter''s pulse raced when he saw the reckless disy in his rearview mirror. What was she thinking? Was winning worth her life?


    With the cliff''s edge looming ominously nearby, Walter''s concern got the better of him, and he eased off the throttle.


    However, Evangeline, finally ahead, nonchntly flipped him the bird without even ncing back.


    Walter was floored by her nerve. She had the gall to flip him off!


    With a grim expression, he trailed her, watching as she defied every rule of safe riding, each move more daring than thest.


    When had she be such a daredevil on the track?


    She was earning his grudging respect, but he could not let her off without a lesson. She needed to learn that some lines should not be crossed.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Evangeline was the center of attention at the finish line, and the crowd buzzed with excitement. Walter dismounted, his face set in stone as he strode forward.


    125 BONUS


    Evangeline''s heart skipped a beat. She did not stick around to watch his defeat. Swiftly, she plopped her helmet onto an unsuspecting girl''s head and vanished into. the night. With everyone in racing gear, she blended into the sea of anonymity. The crowd hushed as Walter approached, his presencemanding and aloof. The man was a vision in ck, from his short boots to his helmet, his lean waist and shoulders as broad as the ocean, every inch of him radiating coiled strength. He yanked off his helmet and tossed it to Caden.


    Caden was beside himself with excitement.


    This was going to be quite the show.


    The crowd caught a glimpse of his face and fought back screams-it was Walter!


    The Gordon family''s very own, Mr. Walter Gordon, the heartthrob of Halcyonia!


    The girl donning Evangeline''s helmet gripped her hands tight, her heart racing. She was there just for the races, a die-hard fan of the heartthrob, but somehow, he was heading straight for her. Oh my god!


    She stifled a squeal.


    Walter approached and peeled off his gloves. He removed the woman''s helmet with a swift move, and his mood darkened instantly.


    "Oh my god! Heartthrob, I adore you!" The girl, overwhelmed with emotion, lunged for a hug.

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    Chapter 51


    Walter shrugged her off, his fury unfurling like a stormy night, enveloping everything in its path.


    His piercing look swept over Caden, who nearly copsed, before he said, "Hey, aren''t you supposed to be the queen of the track? What are you doing here? Where''s the real deal?" Clearly, that was not the same queen of the track from earlier. The real one had bolted.


    The girl turned ghostly pale, her voice quivering, "I... I have no clue..."


    "Don''t me me, Walter. Mrs. Walter Gordon probably panicked and took off," Caden quickly interjected.


    "Big deal!" Walter snapped, smacking the gloves against Caden''s face, and marched off with purpose.


    ""Hey! Walter, where to?"


    Caden sure did not want Walter making a scene in his haste. He feared Walter''s wrath, a fallout he was not ready to face.


    Evangeline had sped down the mountain in Roslyn''s car, a smirk on her face after duping Walter. The only downside was missing the chance to see him make a naked dash for it. However, as she reached the bottom of the mountain, her phone buzzed with an unexpected call from her father, Andrew.


    Ever since her mother passed away, Andrew had be nothing more than at stranger wearing the mask of a father, and a loathsome one at that. Strangers, at least, did not try to guilt-trip her.


    The chill between them could freeze fire, and it had been a cold six months since theirst conversation, which ended with him berating her for not providing an heir to the Gordon legacy.


    "Evangeline, as an older sister, you''ve gone too far. Embarrassing your sister at the charity event was bad enough, but


    to steal Walter from her, almost leading to her disgrace? I demand you go to the hospital tonight and apologize to your sister!" Andrew''s voice was a thunderstorm of anger, and it felt like he was inches away from reaching through the phone to deliver a p


    Evangeline, long numbed by her father''s harshness, pulled over. "Keep dreaming," she retorted. "I''m hanging up now"


    "You disrespectful brat, who let you speak to me that way?! Listen to me, Evangeline, you will go to the hospital and apologize today, or you''ll learn what family discipline really means!"


    A bitterugh escaped her as she recalled being unjustly punished as a child, used of theft by Julia and beaten without a shred of doubt by Andrew. "Family discipline? I stopped being a Rearden the day I realized I didn''t need you. But sure, I''ll go to the hospital- just don''t regret itter.


    The night had been full of surprises, and it seemed there was more drama to witness. She might as well grab a front-row seat to the show.


    Julia had thrown down the gauntlet, and if Evangeline did not respond, it would be like admitting defeat.


    She was not about to let Julia''s insults slide without aeback.


    "Roslyn, I''ll drop you off first, then I need to swing by the hospital."


    "Seriously, what time is it? Can''t the Rearden family let anyone get some sleep?" Roslyn grumbled, clearly peeved.


    "Don''t sweat it. If they''re messing with my sleep, I''ll give them something to really cry about," said Evangeline with a smirk. Roslyn nced back. "Well, let''s get moving before theye after us to cover their tracks!"


    Just as she said that, Walter''s barrage of calls hit like a storm.


    Evangeline hushed Roslyn with a finger to her lips.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, what''s up?" Evangeline answered the phone, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she feigned grogginess. The voice on the other end was icy and deep, as if it blew in from the depths of hell, sending a shiver down her spine. "Where are you right now?"T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.

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    Chapter 52


    Walter was angered at the sight of Evangeline causing chaos in the dead of night.


    He was sure the figure he had spotted was not Evangeline, even though they wore identical helmets. After Walter and Caden came up empty in their racetrack search, he dialed her number.


    "Where am I, you ask?" Evangeline''s voice stretched out teasingly, "At home, but I''m about to head to the hospital to check on your sweetheart. You know, I''ve heard that mistresses get a rough deal these days. Should I give her a taste of her own medicine?" Walter''s expression turned stormy. "Evangeline! What are you trying to stir up now?"


    "She insisted on this meeting, so let''s make it at the hospital," she said, cutting off Walter without a second thought and abruptly ending the call with a decisive click.


    Juliay on the hospital bed, the very picture of vulnerability. Half-sitting, her face was a canvas of pallor as she tearfully shared the day''s harrowing events with her online audience.


    Aiming for stardom, she had started with livestreaming, cleverly building up a fant base to boost her future career.


    hwas


    Her face, seemingly untouched by makeup, was artfully natural. Each eysh was drawn out, her eyebrows lightly filled in with precision, and a soft blush under her eyes made her look like a tearful bunny-a vision of a goddess in her natural state. As she soaked up the adoration for her looks and the outrage directed at her aggressor, the ward door swung open.


    In strode a woman in a ck slip dress, a vision of mor.


    Evangeline, in


    her towering heels, walked in with an effortless grace, her hands nonchntly resting on her chest. Her legs were long, fair, and utterly captivating, and her figure was nothing short of extraordinary. Her mere presence was enough to render Julia''s allurepletely unrema The live chat exploded withments.


    [Viewer A: Wow, is this an angel that just fell from heaven?]


    [Julia in my heart: Who''s the new girl? Three minutes-I want every detail on her.]


    [Avril: Marry me to this knockout, and I swear I''ll never look at another woman.]


    A reply popped up. [LOL, you''d have to cut off your hands first.]T��xt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline''s arrival sent the livestream into a frenzy.


    Julia watched the chat''s attention shift away from her, feeling a surge of rage, but she managed to maintain her woeful demeanor.


    *


    "Sis, you didn''t have toe all this way sote. I''m sorry for keeping y from your beauty rest," said Julia regretfully.


    The livestream captured every word, every nuance of the exchange between Julia and Evangeline.


    [Eternal Bond, No Regrets: So it was the goddess'' sister who had walked in. Why did the goddess act so meek before her?]


    [A Tale of Three Pennies: There''s got to be a remarkable tale behind their rtionship.]


    "Don''t worry about it, I just popped in to enjoy the show of you making a fool of yourself. Skipping beauty sleep won''t kill me," quipped Evangeline with a smirk.


    Morements streamed across the screen.


    [Viewer A: @ATaleOfThreePennies, you''re spot on with that hunch.]


    [Goddess4Tonight: What in the world, the cruel sister of our delicate goddess?]


    [Avril: I''m livid. Don''t you dare hold me back, I''m going to take down that vixen for my idol.]


    [Little Foreigner: Charge ahead, I''ll chip in for the eggs.]


    Andrew, who had just walked in, overheard Evangeline''s taunt. He swung at her in at fit of rage, but she effortlessly caught his hand. "You''re the one who summoned me. Now that I''m here, have you got anyints?" Evangeline''s smugness sent Andrew through the roof.


    "You disrespectful brat! I''m cutting you off and throwing you out of the Rearden family!" Andrew spat out with venom.


    "Both my parents are gone, so of course, I wasn''t raised in your world. However, you''re not the one to school me. Who do you think you are?


    "And you think you can throw me out? Just so you know, this house belonged to my mother. Don''t even dream of getting your hands on it. You better scram tonight, or I''ll be tossing you and your junk out myselfe morning!" Evangeline shot back, her threat as frigid as a The masks were off, and she did not owe those so-called rtes any courtesies. If it had not been for her maternal grandfather, she would have been left to freeze outside a long time ago. All she had was her grandfather and her uncle.


    The livestream was popping off, with people flooding in by the minute. The viewer count shot up from a couple hundred to hundreds of thousands in no time, and Julia''s followers were climbing just as fast, though most were just there for the drama. [Autumn Aunt: Man, I''ve never seen a daughter throw her dad out before. Beats any soap opera I''ve watched!]


    [Avril: Rumor has it this mean girl is the idol''s half-sister. With a mouth that nasty, wouldn''t be surprised if her own mom was hexed to death.]


    [Rich and Handsome Guy Falling from the Sky: I''m not judging without the full scoop, but someone here sure talks trash.]


    Julia''s friends were in the chat, dishing out dirt on Evangeline, iming she was always snatching up other people''s guys and giving Julia a hard time. They painted at picture of Evangeline as that uneducated country girl with zero ss.


    Thements turned into a free-for-all, with insults flying even at those who tried to stay neutral. It was a full-blown brawl in text form.


    Julia was the picture of misery, biting her tongue to keep from cursing out loud, clinging to her image as a properdy.


    Evangeline did not hold back, though. She and Andrew were slinging mud like pros, and Andrew was so ticked off that he was thumping his chest like a madman.


    Evangeline did not pause for breath as she taunted, "Wow, losing your cool already? If it''s too much, just hit the deck. We''re in a hospital, so it''s a short trip to the morgue 1 even wore ck today-perfect for the asion. What a "happy family reunion." "Evangeline, how can you be so cruel to Dad? You know his heart can''t take this,"


    Charife: 12


    Julia pleaded, portraying the concerned daughter perfectly.


    "Oops, I nearly forgot you were here. Don''t be in such a rush. I''m not even divorced. yet, and you''re already trying to charm your brother-inw. Ever heard of the word'' shameless''? If not, maybe a look in the mirror would help."


    Evangeline''s fiery words set the livestream aze with excitement. Some viewers, previously just fans of her looks, became full-fledged supporters, scouring the Inte for her profile like wolves on the hunt.


    The insults flew nonstop.


    However, just as the tirade hit its climax, a chilly, stern voice cut through the noise.


    "Evangeline, what on earth are you doing?"


    Julia''s eyes lit up with hope at the sight of the ne

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 53

    Chapter 53Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Julia saw him when she turned-Walter, looking like he had just trekked through a dust storm, standing at the hospital room''s entrance.


    Evangeline nearly whistled in admiration. He had arrived quicker than she had expected.


    At that moment, Julia was a picture of distress with tears streaming down her face. Andrew was slumped in a chair, clutching his chest as if wounded. "You made it," said Evangeline, her voice dripping with mock surprise.


    True to form, Walter hade running the moment Julia needed him. Evangeline realized she had been the fool for far too long-it was time to bow out. "Walt, she''s lost it. I''m terrified." Julia clung to Walter by the bedside, her eyes brimming with tears, the picture of a damsel in distress.


    "Don''t worry, I''m here now," Walter reassured her, gently patting her back.


    His gaze fell on the livestream, and his face turned to stone.


    Julia quickly killed the feed.


    Evangeline did not wait for Walter to respond.


    The show was over, and she had said her piece. Sticking around would be just in dumb.


    "I''m out of here. You two carry on. I''ll just y the dutiful Mrs. Walter Gordon and stand watch," said Evangeline, her smile not quite reaching her eyes.


    She stormed out without a backward nce, the door mming shut with a definitive chill. Walter felt the sting of her anger.


    He let go of Julia''s hand. "You need to rest. I''m going to find her.


    Julia''s face twisted with resentment as Walter was once again drawn away by Evangeline. "Walt, how can you chase after her when she treats me like this? Don''t you see? Evangeline doesn''t love you." Walter paused. "What does it matter?"


    Her heart ached. Did he really prefer Evangeline, even knowing she did not love him? Was Walter truly smitten with that woman?


    "Walt, won''t you stay? Julia''s voice broke as she reached out to him, her posture. pleading


    However, Walter''s retreating figure was the only answer she got.


    He dashed downstairs and caught Evangeline just as she was about to get into her


    car


    "Where have you been all evening?" he demanded, desperate to know if he was the infamous thrill-seeker of Sunlit Heights.


    "I was at the hospital. Didn''t you see?" Evangeline retorted, shrugging off his grasp.


    *And after I left? Did you enjoy the night view at Sunlit Heights?" he pressed, searching her eyes for a flicker of evasion. Evangeline locked eyes with Walter and unleashed a torrent of anger. "Walter, have. you lost your mind? This is absurd!" She despised the smell of his cologne. She could not bear it even for a single


    moment.


    Determined not to be outdone, she gave a wry smile. "Oh, and you''ve got the divorce. papers, right? I''ll see you at the County Clerk''s Office the day after tomorrow."


    Walter''s frown cut deep into the night, his body feeling as if encased in ice. "Are you certain about the divorce?"


    "All I know is that every second with you now disgusts me, and the longer I wait to divorce you, the more I regret it!" Evangeline did not hold back. With those final words, she drove off, leaving Walter choking on her car''s fumes. Walter watched her drive away, a storm of emotion raging in his eyes, threatening to tear the world apart.


    The next morning, Trey''s call came bright and early. Walter had barely caught a wink of sleep, and he was in no mood for pleasantries.


    "Morning, Grandpa."


    "Morning? It''s half past seven, you scamp. Have you been taking care of Evie? She''s a good girl, just a bit headstrong. You''ve got to be patient with her," lectured Trey -over the phone.


    Walter massaged his temples. The advice was sound, but divorce was looming.


    125 BONUS


    "Grandpa, maybe we need a bit more time. Maybe Evangeline and I both need to cool off," Walter suggested


    "Cool off? That''s a load of crap! blurted Trey in frustration. "Men can cool off, but when a man and woman ''cool off, it''s just nonsense. If she cools down, what use will she have for you? Once she''s gone cold, you''re out in the cold too. You were so sharp in your studies, how "Grandpa, I''ve done everything I could."


    "You''ve done everything? I know exactly what you''re made of, you little troublemaker. If Evie doesn''t make it back, don''t you dare show your face here either!" Trey''s voice was thick with fury as he cut off Walter''s call.


    Walter tried to stayposed, but it was no use. In a fit of rage, he hurled his phone across the room.


    She asked for a divorce, but why should he have just rolled over and given her what she wanted?a


    Was the title of Walter''s wife'' something just anyone could im?


    His head was spinning with these thoughts when his assistant Oscar came in with news that the Francoria project was hitting a snag.


    "Get me on the next flight out, I''m leaving today!" Waltertched onto the idea like it was his saving grace.


    Oscar looked on, puzzled. The Francoria project was in trouble, and yet the boss. seemed thrilled?


    On the flip side, Evangeline, who had let off steam all night, did not wake up until the clock struck ten. Her phone was flooded with missed calls-several from Roslyn, a bunch from her uncle, even her reclusive great uncle had rung her up, not to mention a slew of calls from unknown numbers.


    Then came a video call from Wade.


    "Miss, we''ve got a situation. Your hospital visitst night is all over the Inte. Julia was streaming the whole thing live, and now there''s a ton of nasty chatter about you online. Maybe you shouldy low for a bit, just until things cool down," said Wade, clearly concerned. Evangeline was not fazed; she knew all about Julia''s livestream. "I''m not the one who


    should be embarrassed. Why should I be th

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 54

    chapter 54


    "Miss, you know how it is-gossip spreads faster than wildfire. How about I call in the PR team to sort this mess out? Give it a few days, and those keyboard warriors will have moved on to their next target," offered Wade.


    "Hold on. Let things y out just a bit more," said Evangeline calmly, unfazed. If Julia was so keen on grabbing the spotlight, Evangeline was more than happy to help her. shine-right before taking her down a notch. Wade watched Evangeline, who seemed to enjoy the drama unfold, and felt exasperated. She had the full weight of her family''s power behind her, yet she stubbornly refused to use it, letting some nobody strut around like she owned the ce. Wade was about to try his luck at persuading her again when her phone buzzed with a call from her eldest uncle, Yale Foster.


    "Hey, Uncle Yale, you''ve just finished a Peacekeeping mission. Didn''t you head off to Bali for a vacation? What''s up with calling me?" Evangeline''s voice was yful.


    Her uncle was a tough guy, a real straight shooter who had stayed out of the limelight for years, but he doted on Evangeline, his only niece. Since he was a lifelong bachelor with no kids, he treated her like the daughter he never had.


    "No matter where you are, you''re a handful, you know that? With the way you''re going, I''d be worried sick even if I were off gallivanting through outer space. Have you seen the trash they''re


    talking about you online?" Yale''s voice wasced with worry, the nastyments were hard to stomach.


    "Yeah, I''ve seen them. No biggie. I can''t be bothered with that crowd," said Evangeline with a dismissive flick of her wrist.


    Getting dragged through the mud online would get to anyone, and Evangeline was no different. However, she had a game n and was set on seeing it through for a little longer.


    "I heard you told the PR folks to back off. I just can''t figure you out anymore." The Fosters were ready to jump into action the moment the scandal broke, but Evangeline had waved them off. Asher had already sought her approval the night the video hit the Inte. "Look, Uncle, I''m all grown up now and I''ve got my own ns, so stop fussing over


    me, okay? But hey, you''re off to Balind of love stories! Why don''t you bring me back a new aunt and a little cousin forpany?" Evangeline teased, swiftly ending the call with Yale before he could respond.


    Her uncle was a sweetheart, but boy could he talk her ear off.


    Next, Evangeline tackled the pile of calls she needed to return, "fering reassurances left and right until she was wiped out.


    She was the one who was supposed to be upset, was she not? Instead, there she was, ying theforter. Being the good guy was no walk in the park.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    After a moment''s thought, she logged into her dusty old Twitter ount and whistled at the sight of over 999 notifications. Those social media users were like private eyes, tracking her down even there.


    She scrolled past


    the demands for an apology to Julia, ignoring the insults and the downright nastyments. However, when she saw apliment, she could not help but hit ''like''-some folks still had taste.


    Her feed was flooded with posts about her. She clicked through each mention, her eyebrows rising as she read. They had unearthed everything: Her mother''s death when she was six, her shoeless days in kindergarten, and even her truancy.


    It all came flooding back. After Andrew married Lydia, her life had been turned upside down. Julia had tossed her shoes in the trash, and Lydia had locked her in, leaving her to starve for two whole days. She could have died.


    As she dwelled on the past, her bitterness twisted into a wry smile. Oh, she would make sure they all got what wasing to them.


    Julia was on Twitter, pouring her heart out about how Evangeline, her so-


    called sister, had been tormenting her, a girl who could not even hurt a fly. She hinted that Evangeline had snatched her boyfriend too. However, she finished her rant with a plea that read, [Don''t go after my sister online. I''d rather take the hits than let her face a shred of nder.]


    Talk about ying the saint to perfection.


    With Twitter already buzzing, Evangeline decided to stir the pot. She fired off a tweet that shot straight to the top..


    [I''m the ''sister'' Julia''s whining about. But let''s get one thing straight-I don''t im her. Got a problem? Bring it on. Waiting for an apology? Keep dreaming. Oh, and is your stuff packed? I''ming to clean the house tomorrow, and I won''t leave a


    single rat dropping behind!]


    Evangeline''s blunt words sent shockwaves through the Twitterverse, even drowning out the scandal of a celeb caught cheating with her sugar daddy.


    Thements exploded with fresh fury.


    [Lace and Pleated Skirts: I''m all about thisdy. She''s mine now.]


    [Avril: Ugh, I''m livid. This lowlife has no shame. Anyone up for a little acid-throwing party at her ce?]


    [Rich and Handsome Guy: To the bitter Betty above, I''ve called the cops. She''s my new idol.]


    [Makabaka: Anyone got the address of this snake? I''ve got a truckload of rotten eggs on standby.]


    [Big Bear Lolita: Why waste eggs? I''ve got a farm full of manure here, free of charge. Let''s bury these boyfriend-stealers in it.]


    The web was still flooded with nastyments, but Evangeline had grown thick-skinned. Those rumors did not touch her life anymore.


    She even gave a knowing nod when she spotted fans rooting for Julia and Walter in thements of that night''s video.


    Jerks and mean girls, she thought, the crowd sure knows how to pick them.


    Thanks to the drama, Julia''s fanbase exploded by nearly two million, and


    Evangeline''s own following bizarrely skyrocketed from a few hundred to over eight hundred thousand. The power of the online crowd was something else. The next day came quickly.


    Evangeline slipped into a red dress and admired her reflection-bold and stunning. That was who she truly was.


    The hopeful bride in white, who had entered the Gordon family with dreams in her eyes, was long gone. It was time for her to be her authentic self again. It was time for her and Walter''s final farewell to each other.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 55

    Chapter 55


    Riding on Julia''s coattails, Evangeline''s striking looks and endless legs made her ant overnight sensation.


    However, fame came with a sour note. She was dubbed a ''vixen'' by many who were drawn to her beauty.


    By the next day, her past was picked apart, and people were even camping out at the County Clerk''s Office for a glimpse of the drama. Her marriage to Walter had been a well-kept secret.


    No one knew she was Walter''swful wife, but once word got out about her marriage and the impending divorce, everyone wanted a piece of the action.


    At the crack of dawn, a crowd of rubberneckers had gathered at the Clerk''s Office, some eager toy eyes on Evangeline''s legendary beauty.


    The scene was a frenzy of activity, with journalists buzzing around for thetest scoop and a sea of Julia''s die-hard fans, all itching to rip Evangeline apart.


    The Foster family had seen thating a mile away. Evangeline''s eldest uncle, Yale, had the foresight to hire bodyguards to keep her safe.


    The County Clerk''s Office was swamped, resembling a bustling flea market more than a government building. The staff were at their wits'' end, unable to disperse the eager crowd.


    The spectators, hungry for the main event, had whipped themselves into a frenzy, gossiping to pass the time.


    "Hey, did you catch thetest? Julia''s sister''s husband is some old geezer, ugly as sin but loaded. Word on the street is she''s barren, tried to snag her brother-inw, and there''s more. Rumor has it that she''s not just after Walter, but she''s got another sugar daddy, and that''s the real reason for her split."


    "And you know, how?" someone shot back.


    "I''m telling you, it''s all over the web. You didn''t miss that livestream, did you? Some stud showed upter, looked like he stepped right off a runway, and that, my friend, was Walter."


    The livestream had missed the juicy bits, but that did not stop the Inte sleuths from zooming in on a blurry figure they imed was Walter.


    135 5


    "Talk about no shame! I used to be all about her looks, but it''s like seeing a rose in a trash heap. Mr. Walter Gordon wouldn''t have possibly fallen for her, right?"


    "Not a chancel Mr. Walter Gordon''s got his sights set on Julia."


    "Then I''m still in the game! Forget her personality, she''s got curves that don''t quit!"


    The crowd dissected the drama with the confidence of seas d critics, nodding in


    eager agreement.


    "Please, I''ve seen her cozying up to some old codger, probably her side piece. That woman''s got no standards, and the guy''s practically ancient."


    "Absolutely. My buddy even caught her smooching with that geezer at the mall, right out in the open-totally shameless!"


    The crowd buzzed as more so-called witnesses piled on, and the rumor quickly hardened into concrete fact.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Think the old guy will strut in with her today? Bet she''ll be calling him ''daddy'' as soon as they roll up."


    Laughter and jeers spread through the onlookers as the air thickened with juicy, scandalous whispers.


    Amid the chatter, a pair of sleek, limited-edition Mercedes cleared the path, followed by a stately stretch Rolls Royce cruising their way.


    The grand entrance hushed the crowd.


    What was that, royalty gracing the County Clerk''s Office for a license?


    A squad of men in ck emerged from the Mercedes, lining up to part the crowd, shielding the VIP in the Rolls.


    The car door swung open, revealing a pair of dazzling white heels reaching for the sky.


    Evangeline descended, radiant in a red off-the-shoulder dress.


    Her makeup was wless, her eyes lifted at the corners, and her hair flowed down like ocean waves. She could have been a superstar walking the red carpet. "Lord, that''s the siren Evangeline, even more stunning than on screen," someone gasped.


    A poate creer followed. Pretty face, but still a fox, luring in even the old-timers Bet the guy behind her is the old man."


    Necks stretched to glimpse the man in the back, all eager to spot the rumored sugar


    daddy


    However, out stepped a strikingly handsome man, James, with his gold-rimmed sses exuding a reserved charm.


    He took Evangeline''s hand. Together, they were the picture of elegance-too bad she called him uncle.


    The crowd, ready for a scandal, fell into a stunned silence.


    After a while, someone in the crowd started to doubt. "I thought we were expecting some old geezer? This guy''s a total hunk.


    "Don''t get too excited. For all we know, the old guy didn''t even show up today." another voice chimed in, refusing to back down.


    "And what happened to the rotten eggs someone was going to chuck? Seems like no one''s got the guts," came a taunting voice from the throng.


    With that many bodyguards, anyone brave enough to toss a rotten egg would probably regret it immensely.


    Those private security guys did not mess around like the cops did.


    Poor Evangeline had been camped out at the County Clerk''s Office door for a solid two hours, bing the talk of the town for just as long. Walter? Nowhere to be seen.


    With the office about to close, Evangeline frantically dialed Walter''s number, but all she got was the dreaded ''call cannot bepleted.''


    She could not believe that Walter, the jerk, had turned into such a coward. She was so steamed that she felt like pping him silly.


    The reporters who had been lurking around all day were eager for a scoop. Snagging an exclusive then could make their careers skyrocket.


    Atst, one gutsy reporter dashed past the bodyguards and shoved a mic in James'' face.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 56

    Chapter 56


    "Can i get your name, sir? Are you aware that thedy next to you is rumored to be a homewrecker? What''s your connectionContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    to Evangeline? Got anyments as her alleged beau? And just how old is her current boyfriend, if you don''t mind me asking? The reporter fired off questions, each more pointed than the clearly a fan who had been swayed by Julia''s influence. "Listen, you need to


    watch your words. I could sue you for nder on behalf of my client. And for your information, I''m James, thisdy''s attorney," said James courteously, though he was already plotting to teach this reporter a thing or two about ''experience'' at ater time. The crowd buzzed at the mention of James'' name.


    "Holy smokes! James! The topwyer from Halcyonia, the miracle worker, Mr. James Foster himself!"


    "Doesn''t he usually take on those massive international cases worth billions?"


    Young as he was, he had knocked out a string of tough cases, making a big name for himself in the legal world. There he was, handling Evangeline''s divorce case! Messing with him was like asking to be thrown behind bars in a heartbeat.


    He was way out of their league!


    As the reporter''s back broke out in a cold sweat, James snatched the microphone and addressed the camera with a message for Walter.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, if you''re thinking of refusing the divorce, we''ll have no choice but to take this to court. Expect a letter from mywyer tonight. Check your mail."


    James'' reply was sharp and clear. He then shot the reporter a look that said, "You know what to do with this story, right?"


    The reporter nodded frantically. That was James, after all. A misstep there could mean the end of his career, or worse, hispany''s downfall.


    "Um, Mr. James Foster, the Mr. Walter Gordon you''re referring to... Is he that hotshot entrepreneur, the heir to the Gordon Group, Walter?" a gutsy reporter chimed in. "Yes, we''re talking about the very same person," confirmed James without a hint of


    evasion.


    No way!


    ""Is Walter..."


    Evangeline faced the camera with a calm grace, her words deliberate. "Walter is my husband. Do any of you know where he might be?"


    The reporter was struck dumb, not just by her statement but by her stunning looks.


    "No, I have no idea!"


    "Then, dear reporters, do me a favor and pass a message to Walter. Stop hiding like a coward ande face me for a divorce. Whoever chickens out is a loser!" The crowd was in utter shock.


    Had not the rumor been that Walter and Julia were an item, and that Evangeline was the one wrecking her own sister''s rtionship?


    As it turned out, Walter was Evangeline''s husband, and he was the one married. That made Julia the homewrecker!


    Julia had been the one luring her sister''s husband, prompting Evangeline to seek a divorce.


    Did that make Walter a scumbag too?


    What a disgrace!


    Led by Julia, nearly everyone had been quick tobel Evangeline as the shameless one, chasing after her sister''s husband.


    The tables had turned, and the truth was out


    Regardless of any rumors about Evangeline''s past, the fact that Julia had her eyes on her sister''s husband and had tried to tarnish Evangeline''s name was crystal clear. So many had seen Julia as a paragon of virtue, and that image crumbled.


    "Time to leave, Mr. James Foster." Evangeline was stirring the pot, determined to flush Walter out of hiding.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 57

    Chapter 57 Chapter 57


    They called her the homewrecker, did they not? Well, this was the day to set the record straight on who the real homewrecker was, who the real scumbag was, and who the true victim was. Since Walter was not showing up, she would just have to wait f crawling to her.


    him toe


    With that, Evangeline did not linger. She stepped into her car and drove away, leaving a trail of astonished whispers in her wake.


    Those who had swiftly switched their fandom to thetest femme fatale smiled slyly, dismissing the once-adored girl, Julia, as dull and forgettable after her fleeting moment in the spotlight. As Evangeline''s car pulled away, the throng of reporters and rubberneckers, hungry for drama, trailed behind, undeterredBelongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Rumor had it, based on the day''s explosive live broadcast, that a showdown was on


    the horizon.


    Whispers of a rebellious daughter shing with her father and banishing her stepmother''s family had everyone buzzing with anticipation, the identity of the informant long forgotten in the excitement.


    Half an hourter, the car came to a halt in front of a quaint, slightly weathered Western-style house. Its charmy in its proximity to the city center, nestled in a quiet neighborhood-a prime piece of real estate that Evangeline''s mother had secured by selling her precious jewelry.


    Her grandfather had been staunchly opposed to her mother''s rtionship with Andrew. Upon learning of her premarital pregnancy, he had severed all financial support. In the years that followed, her mother had kept them afloat by pawning her valuables. It was a bitter realization that her mother had unwittingly nurtured a snake in the


    grass.


    As Evangeline gazed at the crowd gathered outside, Andrew and Lydia were too intimidated to confront them. Without hesitation, Evangelinemanded her bodyguards to forcefully break down the door.


    Lydia''s voice shrieked from above, "What do you think you''re doing, you little tramp?


    I''m warning you, touch anything in this house and I''ll have the police on you so fast. Your mother''s dead and gone, and everything here belongs to me!"


    Evangeline''s response was aloof andmanding. "Go ahead, call the cops. Let''s see what you''ll tell them when they arrive." She was relieved that her mother had had the foresight to put the house in Evangeline''s name.


    No longer could she stand the thought of that vile family living in the home that held her and her mother''s most cherished memories.


    She had been naive and easily swayed before,pletely caught up in a foolish crush. Atst, her eyes were wide open, and she could thank those vile people for showing their true colors and snapping her out of it.


    "You''ve got thirty minutes to pack up and get out, or I''m tossing you and your junk. out on the street."


    Andrew eyed the group of intimidating bodyguards dressed in ck, filling the yard. His voice trembled as he yelled, "Evangeline, do you even remember I''m your father?! If you treat your mother and me like this, I''ll have nothing more to do with you, you heartless girl!" Evangeline shot back without a hint of warmth. "My mother''s been gone a long time. If you''re going to cut ties, just do it. The thought that I share any of your blood makes my skin crawl!"


    When Andrew and Lydia made no move, Evangeline did not hesitate. She signaled the bodyguards, who stormed in and tossed all their stuff into the garbage bins. outside.


    Andrew did not waste a second and called the cops, while Lydia frantically dialed Julia, begging her to get Walter to intervene.


    However, Walter was far away in Francoria, swamped with issues and dreading the thought of returning to a divorce mess. His assistant, Oscar, did not help matters, sending him a video of James yelling at him, adding to his dark mood.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 58

    Chapter 58


    The scandal had escted beyond control. With Walter unreachable, Julia dropped her sick act. No point in faking illness when her home was on the line.


    She hailed a cab and rushed back, only to find her house surrounded by a thick crowd. Thanks to the police Andrew had called, she managed


    to push her way through. That short stretch to her doorstep took an agonizingly long time, and the crowd''s wandering hands did not let her pass without inciden


    She stumbled into the yard, a mess from the confrontation. There was Evangeline. the picture ofposed indifference, swinging with her shades on, while James stood close by. Bodyguards hovered, shielding her from the sun with their umbres. She looked every bit the untouchable mob heiress.


    Andrew and Lydia, bolstered by the sight of their darling daughter and the cops on the scene, hurried down to face off with Evangeline.


    "Officer, can you believe this? Our own daughter storms into our home, threatens to kick us out, and tosses our stuff in the trash! You''ve got to get her out of here!" Andrew''s voice boomed with indignation.


    The cop surveyed the chaotic scene, well aware that any attempt to smooth things over could be twisted by the eager cameras outside. They were not about to jump to


    conclusions based on Andrew''s fant.


    *Someone give me the straight story," said the squad leader.


    "Good day, officer represent Falcon International Law Firm. The name''s James


    "James Foster? Well, I''ll be. They say seeing is believing, and they''re right. Sorry I didn''t recognize you


    The captain''s grin was wide as he shook hands with James. The youngwyer''s fame was no joke, he was the trusted counsel for the big-time business moguls. It was a rare privilege to meet him.


    As Jamesid out the facts for Captain Kayden White, Andrew and his cohorts sensed trouble. Why was Kayden so chummy with James? A wave of unease washed over them


    Lydia took Julia aside "Sweetheart, didn''t I ask you to fetch Walter? Why are you here by yourself?" Lydia had little faith in the police and had her hopes set on Walter,


    the man she had chosen for her daughter. Surely he would not stand idly by when his future mother-inw needed help.


    The frustrated Julia said, "I''ve been trying to reach Walter since yesterday, but his phone just rings and rings."


    Lydia threw up her hands in despair. "What are we going to do now?!"


    Meanwhile, Kayden had rified things with James. Andrew''s family had taken over Evangeline''s house and would not leave. Evangeline had the deed to prove her ownership, and the clear evidence was undeniable. He exined the situation loudly to the onlookers and demanded that Andrew''s family pack up and leave immediately. Lydia, hearing that, copsed into a seat, pointing at the group and shouting, "What kind of top are you?! You''re probably in league with that little snake. I''ve lived in this house for over a decade. You say move, and I just move?! Why should I? "Everyone, look at this. I''m being bullied!"


    Andrew quickly tried to calm Lydia, whispering urgently, "Julia is a public figure now. You might not care about losing face, but she certainly does."


    Julia''s face burned with embarrassment. As the newly


    famous "Violin Princess'', thest thing she needed was her mother causing a spectacle with all the fans and media present. It was a blow to her dignity, but with the crowd watching, she could notsh out. Instead, she turned her frustration toward Evangeline. "Evangeline, are you really going to back us into a corner? Mom and Dad were always so good to you, and they even handed over my chance with Walter to you. What more do you want, that you''d kick us out, leaving us with nowhere to go?"


    Her voice broke as she spoke, tears rolling down her cheeks in big drops, her woeful. look sparking whispers all around.


    *Can you believe it? She marries the man her sister stepped aside for, and she doesn''t even appreciate it. Now she''s biting the hand that fed her!"


    "She''s just a sly fox!" someone in the crowd yelled at Evangeline.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline gave a piercing nce in that direction, her powerful aura instantly quieting the murmurs.


    She rose gracefully, gazing down imperiously at Lydia and her daughter.


    "Seriously, I''ve got to hand it to you, your talent for spewing lies has been strong


    since we were kids. My engagement to Walter was set by Grandpa and Mr. Gordon long before you were even a twinkle in anyone''s eye. What''s it got to do with you?"


    The crowd buzzed with excitement, the drama unfolding was too juicy. The so-called violin princess had more than one mask.


    "And just to set the record straight, your mom Lydia seduced Andrew while my mom. was pregnant with her second child, leading to her death and the baby''s. Why don''t you tell them that? You and your mom, you''re both the other women!" Julia, who had always seen Evangeline as the quiet one, red daggers her way." Lies! Show us the proof! Don''t just stand there spouting nder."


    Evangeline looked down at the people below, a mix of amusement and anger in her eyes. "Proof? When my mom died, you were already five months along in Lydia''s. womb. The birth certificate says it all. What more proof do you need?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 59

    Chapter 59


    Enough you vir woman! Julia''s voice cracked the air as she red at Evangeline''s amu face. "Do you really think Walter won''e after you for kicking me out?"


    Evangeline just stared, bewildered. "I used to think you had some sense, but clearly, I was wrong. You''re a fool. I''m divorcing him, so his actions are none of my business!" Evangeline called out with a dismissive wave. "Mr. White, please escort these people out. I''ve no time to waste on them."


    With the police''s help, the bodyguards packed the things and tossed them out the door. Humiliated, Andrew and Julia scrambled into a cab and disappeared.


    Evangeline surveyed the empty yard, everything as before, except her mother was gone for good.


    James gave her aforting pat on the shoulder. He had lost his dearest sister, and he was determined to shield his niece from any sorrow, to spare himself from his sister''s silent judgment. Lydia was still babbling when Julia snapped, pressing her hands to her ears, "Shut it! Haven''t you embarrassed me enough for one day?"


    Lydia fell silent, still somewhat intimidated by her daughter, who held the keys to her futurefort and riches.


    Julia could not fathom what her father ever saw in Lydia, whom she felt disgusted


    with.


    The debacle, witnessed by the media and her fans, had probably ruined her reputation for good.


    Andrew remainedposed. "Julia, maybe you should call Walter''s assistant, Oscar, and find out what''s up. It doesn''t make sense for him to just ignore your calls."


    "Yeah, go find out what''s the deal. He''s probably just got tied up with something." Lydia agreed.


    That snapped Julia back to reality, and she managed to get Oscar to reach out to Walter.


    When Walter''s phone finally rang, Julia burst into tears before she could even say


    hello.


    Walter''s brow furrowed; he had little patience for a woman''s tears.


    "Walt! My sister threw us out today and called me and Mom homewreckers. We''ve got nowhere to go," Julia managed to say through tears.


    "Got it. I''ve got a ce at Northern Lights. I''ll have Oscar set you up there. Head over and get settled. I''m swamped right now, can''t talk," said Walter bris!.


    The call ended with a click, leaving Julia feeling abandoned. Even so, she was sure Walter still had a ce for her in his heart. Why else would he have Oscar look after her?


    Her grip on the phone tightened, her eyes zing with vengeance. "Evangeline, don''t you dare gloat. I''ll be the realdy of the Gordon family soon enough. And when I am, you''ll pay for today''s shame!"


    Meanwhile, Walter clutched his stomach. Business had kept him on his toes, meals were missed, and his chronic stomach issues were back. He had hoped distance would spare him from family drama, but his departure only worsened things.


    Oscar had already filled him in on the drama back home, but Evangeline''stest stunts were off the charts. She had blown the lid off their secret marriage and even kicked her own dad to the curb.


    She knew perfectly well that he did not want to see her with James, yet she still cozied up to James in front of everyone, even talking about divorce.


    Walter could not help but smirk at the irony, Evangeline was nothing if not efficient.


    "Sir, there''s a pack of reporters outside dying to grill you about your divorce," his assistant panted, mopping his brow. Keeping the vultures at bay was no walk in the park.


    Walter flicked his hand. "No personal interviews. Kick them out of the building, and if they make a scene, call the cops."


    Before he could even take a breather, Trey was on the line.


    "What''s this mess you''ve made?! Weren''t you supposed to be ying nice with Evie, not heading for divorce?" Trey''s scolding could shave years off a man''s life. "Grandpa, I gave it my all," Walter groaned, pressing down on his stomach, trying to


    quell the gnawing pain.


    25 BONUS


    "If you''d really tried, would we be here now? Get back here and fix this, or you''ll be the death of me


    "Grandpa, 1-*


    However, Trey had already hung up.


    Walter let out a weary sigh. At least he would get a moment''s peace. Still, he could not dodge the bullet forever Slumped in his chair, he looked as white as a ghost, all curled up-a sight that gave his assistant quite the scare


    Watter Gordon, are you alright? Should call an ambnce? Walter''s pallor and haggard look were a stark contrast to his usual dynamic presence


    "No, everything here is nearly wrapped up. Get me on the first flight out tomorrow.


    He could not predict what was toe, but he was certain of one thing Evasion would not fu a thing. His past dealings with Evangeline haunted him like a reflection in a mirror


    He seemed to have tasted the vor of being lost and despondent.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 60

    Chapter 60


    After enduring a whirlwind of events, Evangeline savored a restful night''s sleep, a serenity she had not known for years.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    Her mother''s voice andughter were slowly fading from m ory. She clung to her mother''s photographs, terrified of forgetting the precious moments they shared. Gazing around her childhood home, the bedroom she knew so well, her once-distant memories sharpened into focus, drawing her nearer to her mother''s essence. The house was theirs alone atst.


    At the crack of dawn, assistant Wade showed up at Evangeline''s new ce, armed with the day''s necessary paperwork. Wade surveyed the house, which Evangeline had lovingly restored to its former childhood charm, cozy and tasteful. "What caught your eye?" Evangeline inquired, noticing Wade''s curious gaze.


    "Just picturing you growing up here. Beats a hotel stay any day. That family sure got more than their money''s worth over the years." Wade had learned of Andrew''s misdeeds and could not help but feel outraged for Evangeline.


    "Yeah, but that''s all behind us now, and they''re just starting to get what''sing to them," said Evangeline, her eyes gleaming with unshakable confidence. She was determined to settle the score for everything that was owed to her and her mother. The Foster Group''s recent charity medical center was a resounding sess. The charity g alone brought in a hefty sum, and the goodwill generated secured partnerships with major corporations and even government- ownedpanies. It was a stunningeback for Foster Group, and it was all thanks to Evangeline.


    Gordon Group had footed the bill, but Foster Group reaped all the praise.


    Post-event, no one at Foster Group dared to look down on Cole''s heir apparent. She was met with respect at every turn within thepany, and even the most set-in-their-


    ways executives did not dare to unt their seniority around her. Evangeline would not stand for it. Besides, her talentmanded admiration.


    "Miss, the developers of the Riverton hot springs have skipped town, leaving behind nothing but a couple of hollowed-out buildings up for auction. Should we consider taking them off their hands?"


    The meeting today revolved around the Riverton debacle, and since thest meeting, Cole had promoted Evangeline to the role of Chief Operating Officer.


    The former developers of Riverton had gotten into trouble and fled the country, leaving a disaster in their wake. Given the project''s scale, few domesticpanies would dare to take it on, especially since Riverton was off the beaten path. With a mountain of red tape to sort through and years possibly needed for a transfer, interest in the property had dwindled.


    4


    Nestled in the hearnd, Riverton was a gem coveted by many, even the


    Foster family. With Riverton in their grasp, they could effortlessly extend their reach southward. Thend''s allure had even caught the eye of Gordon Group, who had been courting the local bigwigs for a slice of the pie.


    "Walter''s in the game now. That spices things up," mused Evangeline, her chin resting in her hand. Snagging the Riverton deal was a gamble, but Walter''s move was a telltale sign of its hidden worth.


    "We''ll pull out all the stops tond this deal, and let''s dig around for Gordon Group''s lowest bid. We need to lock down Riverton''s hot springs before Walter even blinks. And don''t fret about the fallout-James and his legal eagles have our backs." Evangeline was a beacon when she worked, her words weaving spells of persuasion, her confidence fueled by a secret weapon: her uncles, a band ofid-back maestros with the Midas touch.


    The moment the meeting wrapped, her phone lit up with missed calls-all from Trey.


    Guilt gnawed at her. Trey''s health was fragile, and the storm she had stirred with Walter could be taking its toll.


    She made her decision. She sent Wade on a fruit run, nning to drop by the Gordons'' that evening. She owed little to the Gordons, but Trey''s kindness was a debt she intended to honor. In a world of tit-for-tat, Evangeline knew the score. She stood once again at the gates of the manor where she had lived for three years, her feet reluctant to move. Stepping out of the car, she wandered beneath the trees, clutching a bag of fruit, wondering if she would bump into Walter. She would put on a brave face for the press, but in his presence, her confidence always seemed to shrink away.


    "Madam, why are you standing out here? Come on in!" Alice Cook, back from grocery


    shopping greeted Evangeline with a warm pile


    Aloe had watched Evangeline over the years seeing her dedication to the family Tvangeline, who had grown up without a mother and was raised by her grandfather in the countryside, had none of the airs of a spoiled heiress. She was down-to- earth, respectful to her elders, and treated Alice with genuine warmth.


    Even when Aria bossed her around, Evangeline took it in stride, never uttering a word ofint.


    Walter, on the other hand, was another story His difference was like a p in the face, and his very public affair was the talk of the town.


    Alice''s heart ached for the young woman. The Gordons did not know how lucky they were to have her.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 61

    Chapter 61


    "Mrs. Cook, is Walter at home?" asked Evangeline as she pulled Alice to the side, out of view of the security cameras.


    Alice could see the worry in Evangeline''s eyes and reassured her, "The young. master''s not here. There''s been some trouble at thepany, and he''s been so tied, up that he hasn''t been home in ages. You came to chk on Mr. Gordon, didn''t you? "Let''s go inside, it''s fine. Mr. Gordon often mentions you. He was so distressed when he heard about your divorce that he fell ill. Dr. Lawson just left a little while ago." Alice shared thetest news as she led Evangeline into the house. Evangeline reluctantly trailed behind her into the house.


    In the living room, Aria lounged on the couch, her eyes glued to her smartphone. Her gaze snapped up as they walked in, a mix of surprise and annoyance crossing her


    features.


    "Alice, after all these years with the Gordons, you know better. What''s with dragging in every random person? Are you trying to get fired?"


    Alice, who was not one to be pushed around after years with the Gordons, shot back, "I work for Mr. Gordon. If you think you can, go ahead and fire me. Maybe you should focus on keeping your mouth shut if you''re bored."


    With a dismissive huff at Aria, Alice reassured Evangeline, "Don''t worry, Madam. Mr. Gordon is upstairs resting. Go on up. If anyone gives you trouble, I''ll let Mr. Gordon


    know."


    "Alice, you..." Aria, who had not been in the house nearly as long as Alice, pointed a trembling finger at her. "You''re just a servant! Who do you think you are, acting all high and mighty here?"


    However, Alice just grabbed her basket of veggies and walked off, leaving Aria to redirect her fury at Evangeline.


    "Look who it is. Didn''t you vow never to return the day you left? Yet here you are, not even a monthter, crawling back. You''ve got some nerve to discuss divorce in public. Have you no decency? How could someone like you, a simple country girl, ever match my son? You The whole town was buzzing with the news of Evangeline''s split from Walter, and Aria, who had stumbled upon the gossip on her phone, was fuming. The stress had


    enhed a few more lines into her arealy furiowed brow


    trire


    She had been pilofting to give vangene a diece of her mind once the divorce was final but Evangeline had beaten her to the punch, airing the family''s dirtyundry for all to bee


    Ana''s scathing remarks were like water off a duck''s back to Evangeline.


    "Are you done here? I''m heading upstairs," said Evangeline chntly.


    Ana''s blood boiled at the sight of Evangeline''s carefree demeanor.


    "How dare you show your face here at the Gordons'' to see Mr. Gordon after making such a spectacle! I''m going to teach you a lesson for my son!" Aria lunged at Evangeline with a p, but Evangeline caught her wrist with ease. Aria struggled, but her hand was trapped in a vice-like grip.


    Evangeline''s gaze was icy as she warned, "I''m still speaking to you with the courtesy any person deserves. However, make no mistake: If you try to hit me, I won''t hesitate to drop the pleasantries."Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    With a swift motion, Evangeline released Aria''s wrist, sending her stumbling


    backward


    "You''re nothing but a wild, ill-mannered brute!" Aria, outmatched in both wit and strength, retreated with her arm cradled to her chest. "My hand! Just you wait until Walter hears about this. You''re going to regret it!" Evangeline brushed off Aria''s threats and marched upstairs with a basket of fruit in hand. The pretenses were gone. She had no reason to y nice or respect Aria like a mother-in-


    She had bent over backward for Walter, only to be taken advantage of. No more. She was done holding back.


    Trey was truly ill, lying frail on his bed with a thin nket draped over him and an IV drip by his side.


    The sight of Trey softened Evangeline''s fiery demeanor.


    "Grandpa, it''s been too long. I''ve missed you," she said warmly, setting the fruit down on the bedside table.


    "Alice mentioned you''ve been skipping meals, so I brought your favorites-


    mangosteens and durians. Shack on them when you feel like it, but remember, moderation is key."


    Her tone was gentle, almost motherly, and Trey soaked it in. "Evie, you''re such a good soul. I''ve heard about the troubles with you and Walter."


    Evangeline''s hands froze as she peeled a mangosteen. She had braced herself for that, but hearing it from Trey stirred a pang of guilt. "I''m sorry, Grandpa. I never wanted it to be everyone''s business.


    Trey stroked her hair, offering sce. ''Don''t you worry about it. It''s my grandson who''s at fault. Just like his dad-never a moment''s peace. And the divorce... I don''t hold it against you."


    "Look, no matter what happens with Walter and me, you''re my grandfather through. and through. Il drop by to see you whenever I get the chance. You''ve got to keep yourself healthy. I''m still nning on showing you up with my calligraphy skone of these days."


    Trey chuckled, then broke into a fit of coughing. "You''ve got a ways to go before you can beat me. Maybe you could take on your grandfather, though." He remembered how Evangeline''s attempts at calligraphy had once sent him into peals ofughter. "Grandpa, drink some "Don''t talk like that. You''re the picture of health. I bet you could give those Guinness World Record holders a run for their money!"


    "You''re always good for augh. So, when are you nning to head out? Think you could stick around and keep this old manpany? No one is else around here to chat with," said Trey.


    "I''m staying the night. How about tomorrow I wheel you out to the garden for a bit, maybe whip up a pumpkin pie? Evangeline figured Walter would not be back for a while, so she decided to stay with Trey. She would feel better leaving once she knew he was on the mend.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 62

    Chapter 62


    Trey''s illness had taken a toll on his appetite, Evangeline made him some oatmeal. and carefully fed him, then gently washed his hands and face. By the time she was done, it was already the middle of the night. Once Trey was sound asleep, Evangeline could finally rx. She headed to her old room to wind down.


    After a quick wash, she was so wiped out that she passed out the moment her head hit the pillow.


    Walter got in from the airport well after midnight, worn out from his trip and a nasty stomach bug. He barely made it to his bed before copsing.


    Then, out of nowhere, he caught a whiff of something familiar.


    It was Evangeline''s signature scent.


    Was he so tired he was hallucinating, or was her scent really lingering in the room?


    His fingers brushed against something unexpectedly soft, and without thinking, he gave it a gentle squeeze.


    Evangeline, who had been sound asleep, woke up with a start, her hand flying to her face as she cried out. She had been dreaming that a monster was pinching her cheek with such force that it yanked her out of her slumber. Blinking in confusion, she noticed a dark figure on the bed, which made her panic. She quickly snapped on the bedside light.


    "Walter?"


    "Evangeline?"


    They both shot up, their voices ovepping in surprise.


    "Why are you here?" They echoed each other once more.


    Evangeline stared at Walter, too shocked to speak. Any trace of drowsiness had


    vanished in an instant.


    Walter adjusted his rumpled clothes, fighting off his own weariness. "What''s this? You were talking about divorce two days ago, and now you''re here in the Gordon. Tarily home trying to charm me


    "Seduce you? Evangeline toughed densely ''Maybe you should take a look in the mirror Though, I admit, the Wather in the error might just be tempting enough.


    It was you who crept into my room while was asleep, taking liberties, she used, pointing to her reddened cheek Look at this, my face is swollen. You''re nothing but a creepi


    Walter''s face flushed with embarrassment. He had been half asleep and had mistaken the situation for a dream, not realizing his own strength.


    "Should I check it for you?" he offered, leaning in close almost immediately.


    In her fluster, Evangeline''s hand brushed against the bedsidemp, and the plug came loose, plunging the room back into darkness. Moonlight streamed through the window, bathing the two in a soft glow.


    The moonlight softened Walter''s chiseled features, and Evangeline felt the warmth of his breath as her other cheek blushed a deep crimson.


    "No, no, stay back," said Evangeline, her voice faltering as she scooted back, nearly falling off the bed.


    Walter quickly caught her, pressing her back against the pillow, their bodies. awkwardly entangled.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    She tried to shove him off, but he was as immovable as a boulder.


    "What are you even doing back here? Hiding out and avoiding a divorce, too cowardly to face anyone?" Evangeline, clearly outmatched in strength, fought back with her words.


    "You have the nerve to mention that? Did you forget our deal so quickly? You were hell-bent on this divorce, making a spectacle for the whole town. Feeling triumphant seeing the Gordon Group heir dumped in the headlines?" Walter''s grip on her hand was firm, pinning her down, his gaze intense and unyielding. "Is that how badly you want to be rid of me?"


    Evangeline averted her gaze, dodging the heat in Walter''s eyes. "Didn''t you get your answer to that a long time ago?"


    It was Walter who never wanted the marriage in the first ce, who had been aloof


    and distant. He had treated her like a servant in the Gordon household for three years, nearly stripping away her spirit, her happiness, and her pride.


    "So why show up now? You''re nothing to the Gordons after the divorce," Walter demanded, his voice heavy with usation, Beneath him, Evangeline squirmed, her skin brushing against his through the thin silk of her nigh own, an unintentional provocation. "I came to see Grandpa, not you. Why do you always have to make it about yourself?" Evangeline snapped.


    "You can''t fool me. You''ve got to feel something for me, or why go after Julia? You''re trying to get back at me, right?" challenged Walter before leaning in to kiss her.


    He could not shake the doubt. If Evangeline hated him that much, why had she stayed with the Gordons for all those years? Why had she once cared for him so deeply?


    He longed for the old Evangeline, the one who might have looked at him with something like affection. He did not like the new her, the one he was holding. It felt like trying to hold onto sand when he held her, slipping through his fingers.


    Lost in his turmoil, Evangeline kicked with all her might, sending Walter tumbling off the bed.


    "Who''s getting revenge on whom? Julia is my business, and if it ever involved you, that''s history. I''m begging you, just stay away and don''t make me hate you more," she said with a sneer.


    Her frigid words snuffed out Walter''s burning desire like a doused me.


    He grabbed his suit jacket from the sofa, his back to Evangeline, and said, "Just don''te to regret your choices."


    With that, he stormed out, mming the door behind him.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 63

    Chapter 63


    Evangeline was left fuming, punching the pillow in frustration. "Great timing, as always. It''s like fate loves to throw us together at the worst times."


    The next morning, Evangeline was up with the dawn, helping Alice whip up a pumpkin pie for Trey. He was not feeling great, but he managed to eat quite a bit, cheered by Evangeline''s kindness, and seemed a little brighter for it. Afterward, Evangeline wheeled him out for a strollen the garden.


    Thest whispers of winter had finally retreated, and the morning sun wrapped the world in a cozy warmth. Tulips danced in the garden''s gentle


    breeze, their colors a vivid tapestry. ��vangeline and Trey were lost in easy conversation, theirughter mingling with the cheerful chatter of their video with Trey. It was one of those perfect, tranquil moments. -However, tranquility shattered as they rounded the garden''s rocky outcrop. There, a


    few faces soured Evangeline''s mood in an instant.


    Walter and Julia sat in the gazebo, deep in discussion.


    Walter had recently helped Julia''s family with a ce to stay. Lydia, ever grateful, had brought Julia by at dawn to say thanks. It was also a chance for Julia to get to know Walter better.


    "Walt, you wouldn''t believe how terrible my sister has been. She didn''t just throw us out; she''s threatening to make us leave the capital for good," Julia spilled her troubles, her voice tinged with tears.


    "She''s not capable of that," replied Walter, his tone dismissive.


    "I can''t believe she''d go this far. I''ve been bending over backward for her.


    Evangeline was just an opportunist clinging to James from


    the Foster Group. Sure, James was part of thepany, but the real powery with the enigmatic Ms. Foster, the rightful heir. James was not a threat to Walter, but Ms. Foster, with her sights set on the same hot spring town project he coveted, was a thorn in his side. The Foster family drama had barely cooled down, and there she was, hungry for


    more.


    Ambitious women were a rarity, and Walter found himself intrigued by the prospect of meeting the elusive Ms. Foster.


    Cha


    128 BONU


    "Grandpa, Dr. Lawson will be here any minute. I''ve asked Mrs. Cook to wheel you. back to your room. I''ll just take a quick stroll in the garden, and then I''lle keep youpany, okay?" Evangeline stepped in front, shielding her grandfather from the sight of Walter and J "Sure, go enjoy the garden. Spring is in full bloom, and it''s a sight for sore eyes. It''ll lift your spirits," said Trey, offering aforting smile.


    the two thorns in her side


    Once Trey was out of sight, Evangeline intended to dod and retreat to her bedroom. However, as fate would have it, she ran smack into Aria and Lydia on another path.


    Talk about jumping from the frying pan into the fire, Evangeline thought, exasperated. The Gordon estate suddenly felt too cramped.


    "Of all the luck, why do you have to show up in the garden and spoil the view?" Arial snapped, her mood souring at the sight of Evangeline.


    Lydia chimed in with equal venom, saying, "You''re such an ingrate. After all we''ve done for you, you turn out to be just as heartless as your mother. You kicked your own parents


    out of their house! I''d like to see how long you can keep up with this charade!"


    Evangeline had hoped to steer clear of those nuisances, but there they were, thinking they would be stronger with theirbined nagging.


    "Watch your tongue, Lydia. Criticize me all you want, but leave my mom out of this. And for the record, I''m twenty-three, and you''re over forty. I''m bound to have a happier life than you, you old hag!" Evangeline shot back, her wordsced with triumph. Their spat did not go unnoticed, Walter and Julia, drawn by the noise, left the gazebo and headed their way.


    Evangeline scanned the circle of foes that had closed in around her. "Bring it on," she said with a defiant sneer. "I''m not afraid of a few more headaches."


    With her hands on her hips, she looked every bit like someone ready to start a street brawl. There was no point in wasting her breath on high-minded talk with that bunch.R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "Walt, can you believe my sister? She''s even bad-mouthing her mother. It''s just too.


    much," Juliained, tugging at Walter''s hand, urging him to witness. Evangeline''s venomous attitude.


    "Oh, feeling left out, are you? Spreading rumors online every day, squatting in someone else''s house for years, and you think you''re getting a raw deal because I haven''t charged you rent?


    "You and your family have been livingrge at someone else''s expense, and you still don''t know how to y nice. What is this, a soap opera? You and your so-called friends are thick as thieves, always chasing after the next affair, desperate for drama, aren''t you?" Evangeline let loose on them without taking a breath.


    "Evangeline, remember you''re in the Gordon family''s house now, and you will show some respect!" Aria demanded, trying to assert her authority as the matriarch.


    "And what of the Gordon family? Since when can they dictate what I say? You''ve been nothing but a pain since I got here, even expecting me to clip your nails for you. What, are you helpless?"


    Before Aria could snap back, Evangeline continued her tirade without missing a beat. "Go on, deny it. If you''re not helpless, then you''re just a spoiled brat, always expecting others to wait on your hand and foot. You think you''re so high and mighty!"


    Walter was floored. He knew Evangeline could hold her own in a verbal spar, but he had never seen her take on a crowd like that. He had figured she would be overwhelmed by the numbers, but there she was, weaving through the throng like a pro.


    "You little tramp! I''ll rip your mouth off!" Aria, unable to outshout Evangeline and counting on Walter''s support, lunged at her.


    To her surprise, Walter was the one who stepped in to block her.


    Evangeline froze. For the first tim

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 64

    Chapter 64


    Evangeline was at a loss as she watched the unfolding drama.


    Has Walter lost his mind? He should be backing up his mother, his future mother-inw, and his girlfriend, not defending her from his mother''s wrath.


    "Walter, what are you doing? I need to put her in her ce! She been spewing lies online, and now she''s here, parading around like she owns the ce. If we don''t put her in her ce, she''ll think she can walk all over the Gordon family!" chastised Aria. "Mom, Evangeline and I aren''t divorced. So technically, she kind of does have a stake in the Gordon family," Walter retorted.


    As Water watched, he began to see the struggles Evangeline had faced in the first three years of their marriage and started to grasp why she had turned out the way


    she had.


    A wave of regret washed over him.


    If he had been toote in the past, his chance to make amends had finallye.


    "Walter, has she cast some kind of spell on you? She''s been outright rude to your family, hurling insults at your mom, and you''re still taking the side of this stranger!" Aria was fuming, her chest tight with fury.


    Lydia and Julia had not seen thating. Julia peeked at Walter, but his gaze was locked on Evangeline as if no one else existed.


    What then? Walter seemed genuinely smitten with Evangeline, defending her even at


    this moment.


    "Mom, I''ve heard from Alice over the years about the way you''ve treated Evangeline.


    It''s time to stop."


    "Wait, Evangeline is in love with someone else, and she''s talking about divorcing your for him. Mdm. Gordon means well. You''re going to break your mom''s heart," interjected Julia, trying to regain control of the spiraling situation. Should not they be banding together against Evangeline, the outsider, at a time like


    this?


    "And Julia, Mrs. Rearden, I''ve signed over the suburban apartment to you two. You can live there and leave Evangeline alone from now on," Walter announced, having done everything within his power.


    Evangeline stood amid the chaos, her hair whipped by the wind, seemingly at a loss. for aeback.


    What was Walter doing, throwing the rulebook out the window?


    "Evangeline,e over here, I need to talk to you!" said Walter, pulling Evangeline out of the eye of the storm.R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    In the end, Evangeline walked away from the confrontation, once again the clear winner.


    A never saw iting-that Lydia and Julia, the chatterboxes, would be outyed by the cunning stepdaughter when it mattered most.


    for your name


    She gave Julia a disappointed shake of her head. "Julia, stand up Walter is head over heels for that small-town girltely. You''ve got to step up your before someone else swoops in and steals your spot!"


    "Got it, Mdm. Gordon," replied Julia, well aware that herckluster showingtely had left Aria unimpressed. Getting kicked out was one thing, but she had not even put up a fight against Evangeline. Next to her, she felt downright meek.


    "I can''t just stand by and watch this mess unfold. She''s stirring up trouble even on her way to divorce court. I need someone to keep tabs on her, make sure she doesn''t pull any more stunts," Aria muttered, her frustration evident. Walter had been dragging Evangeline along for a good while before she wrenched herself free.


    "Walter, what''s gotten into you?!" she snapped.


    "What do you really want, Evangeline?" he demanded.


    "You know exactly what I want," she shot back, her gaze sharp enough to cut through him.


    Her phone rang, and she answered it right there, with Walter hanging on every word. The caller wanted her at some evening event, and she did not hesitate to agree..


    "Where do you think you''re going all by yourself at this hour?" Walter''s voice was thick with anger.


    "You''re so nosy, Walter. And who said I''m going alone?" taunted Evangeline.


    "Just don''t go. I''ll give you anything you want today-anything but a divorce," said


    Walter, backing down.


    "If you''lle with me to the courthouse tomorrow, I''ll skip out on today''s trip."


    "Tomorrow''s booked solid for me, Evangeline. 1- Walter barely started before she


    cut him off.


    Evangeline shoved past him and headed for the door. "Then we''ve got nothing left to talk about."


    Walter watched her go, and she never once looked back.


    He had so much he wanted to say.


    ''Evangeline, I''m worn out. Can''t we just stop this endless fighting?"


    Back in his bedroom, Walter felt like a ghost. He dialed his assistant Oscar. "Dig deeper on Evangeline. Spare no effort, and use whatever it takes."


    What was she up to? She had been part of the Gordon household for ages without a job, then out of the blue, she was off to mix and mingle. She had not


    asked him for money in ages, and he figured James was footing her bills. Was Evangeline being used as some kind of pawn?


    Oscar''s voice came through the phone, "The missus is quite the enigma. The divorce mess is all over the news. Online sleuths can''t pin down much about her, and it''s all hazy,


    "However, one thing''s clear-her ties with James from thew firm are anything but ordinary. At first, the media was all about Julia, but now, someone''s ying the game smarter, outspending Julia''s backers. The narrative''s flipped, and it''s all negative about you and Julia''s family now."


    "Keep on it," instructed Walter, his voice firm. "I want to know it all-where she went to school as a kid, who she sat next to, everything."

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    Chapter 65 Chapter


    65


    Walter had just wrapped up some work when Caden called him to hang out''. Walter had been feeling on edgetely, so he agreed to meet at the swanky Golden Grand Hotel.


    Caden was buzzing in their get-together, while Walter loo! d like he could use a week''s sleep.


    "You''re looking pretty chipper. Hit the jackpot recently?" Walter asked, noticing. Caden''s gusto, a far cry from his usual nitpicking self. Back in the day, Caden would make the chef check the temperature of his egg custard, not too hot, not too cold.


    "Man, I joined this college student-run amateur racing team. It''s like a scene straight out of a movie, all these gorgeous gals around. Makes me feel like I''m back in the college groove, all pumped up," said Caden with a grin.


    ''Come on, you know that''s risky business. Your folks would flip if they knew," said Walter, trying to talk some sense into him.


    "Hey, keep it on the down-low, will you? You''re the only one in the loop. I''m nning to ride this wave a little longer." Caden winked.


    "What''s up with you? Not into the whole marriage and kids scene? I heard your mom is going nuts trying to set you up with all these high-ssdies, and you''re not even giving them a nce."


    Walter and Caden were tight, but Caden was known for ying the field. Despite being 26, he had not settled down, and he was even vocal about not wanting kids. Meanwhile, Walter was the golden boy, so much so that Caden''s mother had grilled him a few times, half- joking if they were more than just friends.


    The kicker was that if Caden turned out to be gay and Walter was his guy, the family would roll with it, but only if a grandkid, a boy, was in the picture.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Because of some wild gossip, Caden and Walter found themselves in the hot seat, called aside by their teacher for a heart-to-heart.


    "What''s the big deal? The girls they keep pointing out are all like Julia-so uptight that raising their voices seems like a life-or-death situation. None of them hold a candle to Evie-Baby!"


    Walter shot Caden a warning nce when he mentioned Evangeline. "Cut it out with the ''Evie-Baby'' stuff, and don''t even think about making a move on her."


    "Man, I was just talking. But seriously, with everything that''s going down, are you still


    to earnest concern.


    happy being married?" asked Caden, his tone shifting down, are you still


    Walter paused, his mind racing through memories, before he downed his drink in one go, the bitterness mingling with a heady rush.


    "I''m not sure. I haven''t exactly been husband of the year," admitted Walter, aware of his past failings and at a loss for how to fix things with Evangeline. At that moment, his mother Aria buzzed his phone


    "Walter, I''ve been saying you should dump her. Look at the mess she''s gotten into behind your back."


    She had sent him a bunch of photos on WhatsApp-shots of Evangelineughing it up with some guy, their backs turned, at Golden Grand Hotel.


    "When were these taken?" asked Walter, sitting bolt upright. He recognized the white dress Evangeline had on earlier that day in the photos.


    "Just now, from the private detective I hired. Good thing I had her watched, or who knows what else she''d be up to? She''s not even officially your ex yet, and she''s already acting desperate. A woman like that''s nothing but trouble!" Aria ran on without pause. Aria''s words became a distant murmur as Walter stood and used the photo to pinpoint Evangeline''s whereabouts.


    He inquired with a server and made his way to the 306 Newhaven Suite, but a bodyguard blocked his path.


    "Ms. Foster is in a meeting. If you need to speak with her, you''re wee to wait here or give her a call." "Ms. Foster? The one from Foster Group?"


    The guard gave a dismissive chuckle. "Who else? Only a Foster could afford to take over a whole floor of Golden Grand Hotel."


    Walter''s gaze fixed on the woman with the cascading hair, sitting across from a dapper heir apparent. He charged forward. "Evangeline, what are you up to?"


    The woman faced him, her expression a mix of surprise and confusion.


    She had the look of a ssic beauty-almond eyes, a soft nose, and plump lips-all warmth and allure. However, she was nothing like Evangeline. They shared the same silhouette and luxurious hair, but it was clear they were not the same person. Evangeline''s eyes had a natural lift, her nose was regal, and her gaze was piercing, sizing up everyone like she was ready for a challenge.


    Ms. Foster, though her demeanor was gentle, had an aura thatmanded the room, a far cry from the Evangeline he thought he knew. "Who are you looking for?" she asked, her head tilting ever so slightly toward Walter, her voice tinged with annoyance.


    Walter, realizing his mistake, paused for a few seconds. "I apologize, Ms. Foster, you bear a striking resemnce to someone I know."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 66

    Chapter 66


    Ms. Foster''s captivating gaze narrowed at Walter''s words, her tone icy. "Who did you think I was?"


    He had burst in with erratic steps and an urgent voice, a far cry from his usual poise.


    Ms. Foster felt a flutter of curiosity, waiting in silenc or his reply.


    Walter, finallyposed, eyed the woman before him with suspicion. Finding no giveaway, he answered with a chill, "It''s nothing, just a case of mistaken identity..." Her hand clenched beneath the table.


    A case of mistaken identity?


    Fine, just fine!


    She had expected nothing less than disdain from that man.


    Ms. Foster''s anger rose, but her smile was alluring. Her eyes, however, betrayed a deep chill.


    She gave him a frosty look. "Next time, Mr. Walter Gordon, make sure you take a good look before you bother someone. It''s quite rude, don''t you think?" Walter was momentarily lost for words, caught off-guard by her rebuke.


    "You know who I am?" he asked, a crease forming between his brows, picking up on


    the inconsistency.


    Ms. Foster''s lips curled in a sneer. "Who isn''t aware of Mr. Walter Gordon''s recent antics against the Foster family? You''ve really outdone yourself."


    Walter had heard whispers about Ms. Foster long before their paths crossed. As he finally met her, she lived up to every story. She carried herself with an edge, a telltale sign of someone who had wed her way through the cutthroat business world. Even so, her pointed questions stirred an uneasy feeling deep within him.


    "Maybe instead of pointing fingers when a deal slips through your fingers, you should take a hard look in the mirror. Even if I weren''t in the picture, do you honestly believe you''d havended that project?"


    Walter had been a thorn in the Foster family''s side, sniping a few minor deals just to ruffle their feathers.


    "You!" Ms. Foster''s face flushed with rage, her eyes shooting daggers at Walter. It was clear she was not about to let that go without a fight. "Just you wait!"


    With that, their bizarre rivalry began. Both were headstrong to the core, and neither would back down from a challenge.


    After a brief exchange with her colleague, Ms. Foster stood up to leave. Pausing, she shot Walter onest scorching look before striding away.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter watched her leave, a frown creasing his forehe. She reminded him so much. of Evangeline.


    The resemnce was uncanny, right down to the dress they both wore on the same day. What were the odds?


    The memory of her fierce yet radiant eyes lingered, and Walter felt a tug in his chest.


    He could not deny it-he was captivated by Ms. Foster.


    At that very moment, Oscar, out of breath, made it to the scene. He had just learned that his boss had a run-


    in with Ms. Foster, and the old feud between their families shed through his mind, sending a shiver down his spine. He wanted to calm his boss down before things escted. However, when he got there, the room was deserted.


    A knot formed in Oscar''s stomach, worried that his boss might have worsened things with the Fosters. He approached Walter cautiously and asked in a hushed tone, "Sir, are you okay?" Walter looked down, skeptical of such a coincidence. "Look into Ms. Foster''s background, and I mean dig deep."


    He could not fathom someone just popping into existence. If Ms. Foster was indeed Evangeline, she would have slipped up somewhere.


    Oscar, confused but obedient, nodded and hurried off to follow the orders.


    Meanwhile, the woman who had left the Newhaven room slid into a chauffeured car with practiced ease. She snatched up her phone the moment she settled in and made a call. Her voice was back to its usual velvety tone. "Uncle, I need a favor..."


    James recognized Evangeline''s voice instantly and was all ears. "Go ahead."


    wood

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 67

    Chapter 67


    Walter was fuming when suddenly, he got a text from the vi''s butler.


    [Madam''s back.]


    That brief message made him scowl. What was she up to all the time?


    He fired up the car, and it zoomed off like a shot, his every move seething with anger.


    When Walter got back to the vi, the butler said Evangeline had retired to her room. He did not hesitate and bolted up to the second-floor bedroom. "Evangeline, get out here!"


    Evangeline was calmly organizing her desk. She paused when she heard themotion, but she then resumed her task, tantly ignoring Walter.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter burst through the bedroom door, his sharp eyes zeroing in on Evangeline.


    That same white dress, that familiar silhouette.


    The way that woman had smiled and frowned in the private room earlier that day was shing before Walter''s eyes, and he could not help butpare her to Evangeline. Evangeline shot him a look. "What''s your problem? If it''s nothing, leave. I need to shower!"


    Walter''s lips tightened, and he took long strides toward her, an intense presence bearing down on Evangeline.


    He locked eyes with her and whispered, "Ms. Foster?"


    He said it, desperate to see a flicker of panic cross Evangeline''s face.


    However, there was nothing.


    ha


    Evangeline had nerves of steel. Walter''s attempt to rattle her with a few intimidating words was like water off a duck''s back. She shrugged nonchntly.


    "What''s that you''re saying? I really don''t understand."


    Walter''s eyebrows knitted together in confusion. "Aren''t you Ms. Foster?"


    At that, Evangelineughed as if he had told the punchline of a joke, her smileced with a hint of scorn. "Walter, seriously, have you been popping the wrong pillstely?


    Messed up your head?


    "Look, I''m just a simple girl from the sticks, not some posh princess. Or did my looks suddenly get so enchanting that you mistook me for royalty?"


    With a yful twinkle in her eye, Evangeline closed the gap between them in a sh, their noses almost brushing.


    Caught off-guard, Walter stumbled backward.


    Evangeline, smirking at his predictable retreat, had long since grown ustomed to his standoffish ways.


    She grabbed a towel and made for the bathroom.


    That was when it hit Walter. Was she making a fool out of him?


    The lingering scent of her perfume teased his senses. He squinted and blocked the bathroom entrance.


    "What''s your game?" Evangeline''s voice was icy, emotionless, Her distant demeanor somehow struck a nerve.


    Her constant indifference sparked a strange yearning in him to break through her defenses.


    "I want answers," he demanded.


    "I''ve told you, I don''t know any Ms. Foster. If there''s another woman on your mind, go chase after her and leave me out of your madness!" she snapped, yanking on Walter''s arm, trying to shove him aside.


    However, Walter stood his ground, blocking the doorway with an unyielding stance, a peculiar sparkle in his gaze. "So, what have you been up totely?" he demanded, his tone dripping with superiority.


    Her heart plummeted. Tilting her head mockingly, she said, "Mr. Walter Gordon, unless I''m mistaken, I handed you my divorce papers weeks ago. Sign them, and we''re nothing to each other. So why do you think you have any say over me?" Walter was inexplicably annoyed by her defiance. He grabbed her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes, and dered, "Just remember, until you sign those papers, you''re still Mrs. Walter Gordon!"


    She opened her mouth but remained silent, her eyes narrowing in thought. Then, unexpectedly, her lips curled into a dazzling smile. "All this effort to keep me close...


    Don''t tell me you actually want me to stay Mrs. Walter Gordon forever?"


    Her look was captivating, and it was as if she had be someone else entirely. Her tauntingugh sent a jolt through Walter.


    "Nonsense. Your antics have already hit the Gordon family''s stock prices. We agreed to keep our marriage a secret. You have no right to go public with our rtionship." Evangeline bit her lip, keeping quiet. She was curious to find out what Walter was really up to.


    "The terms are spelled out in the contract. If you break it, you''ll owe damages!" said Walter. a


    Evangeline could not help butugh. She had not expected Walter to make such a fuss just to squeeze money out of her.


    Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she asked, "What do you want?"


    "One hundred fifty million!" Walter stated firmly.


    After he dropped that bombshell, he watched Evangeline, eager to see her reaction.


    She was known for her love of money, which would surely hit her hard.


    As expected, Evangeline''s eyebrows shot up in fury. "One hundred fifty million?! Are you out of your mind?"


    Her fists were clenched, her gaze filled with fiery indignation as she stared down the scoundrel.


    ''Is he deliberately trying to make me miserable?'' she wondered.


    She had the 150 million, but she would rather donate it to the International Red Cross than let this jerk benefit from her wealth.


    She scoffed, "Keep dreaming!"


    She was done talking. With a forceful tug, she pulled him toward the door, shoving him out. She then slipped into the bathroom and locked the door behind her. Walter was left standing outside, the sound of running water soon reaching his ears, his gaze turning steely.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 68

    apter 68


    Back when Evangeline had devoted her heart to him, Walter had not cared much. However, seeing her dismiss him so casually, he felt an unexpected urge to win her


    over.


    Walter settled himself on a couch, deciding not to leave ju vet.


    The bathroom door was steamed up, yet through the haze, the outline of a woman''s alluring figure was still visible.


    Walter felt an unexpected tightness in his throat, and his gaze grew shadowed.


    He could not deny it; that woman had caught his attention more times than he cared to admit.


    Restless heat surged within him, and he grabbed a ss of water from nearby, taking a gulp to quell the rising irritation.


    Evangeline emerged from her bath shortly after, draped in a robe, dabbing at her wet hair. She paused when she saw Walter, still seated like a statue, and her brows knit together in a frown. "Why are you still here?"


    The man who had once bolted at the slightest hint of her flirtations was shamelessly lingering.


    Ignoring him, she sat down and started blow-drying her hair.


    Walter observed her for a moment before speaking up, "If you''re not going to make amends for the losses to the Gordon family, then at least remember who you are. As long as you bear the title of Mrs. Walter Gordon, even for a day, act the part!" Evangeline''s hold on the hairdryer grew firmer, her anger rising. He demanded she act the part of Mrs. Walter Gordon, but when had he ever yed his role as a husband?


    Her temper was about to re when her phone, lying nearby, rang out. She snatched it up, her voiceced with annoyance, "Hello?"


    A courteous voice responded, "Good day, Ms. Evangeline. I am the attorney representing the senior Mr. Gordon. We''ve met before."


    Recognition dawned on Evangeline. She remembered him.


    Her voice settled into a calm, "Why thete call? What''s up?"


    "The thing is, your grandfather wants you toe by tomorrow to sign the share


    transfer contract."


    Evangeline sharply caught the piercing look from the man next to her as it swept herR��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    way.


    She inwardly scoffed. He was really hung up on that.


    "No way," she said, cutting him off.


    She had no desire to keep ying by Walter''s rules. Signing that contract would probably mean putting up with more of his maniptive games.


    Thewyer sounded unsure as he responded, "Miss, your grandfather''s health is failing, and he''s really counting on this. Please, try to understand and give him some peace." The line went dead for a moment, then thewyer heard a soft sigh.


    "Fine." Evangeline gave in.


    Walter, listening in, kept his face expressionless, as stoic as ever.


    After she hung up, Evangeline dried her hair and got ready for bed. She nced at the jerk beside her and arched an eyebrow. "I''m hitting the sack. Make yourself scarce."


    Her dismissive tone clearly irked him.


    Walter''s lips twisted into a smug grin. "This is my ce. Why shouldn''t I sleep here?"


    The speechless Evangeline could do nothing but re at him.


    "Fine! Fine!" she snapped, not in the mood to bicker. She grabbed her nket and


    climbed into bed.


    After all, Walter had never taken the bait when she had tried to tempt him before. Letting him stay the night would not change a thing.


    With that thought, Evangeline let it go and drifted off to a deep sleep.


    Walter''s gaze lingered on her as she walked away. After a long moment, he stretched out on the couch, his mind a whirl of confusion over his stubborn desire to remain.


    The night deepened, the room steeped in silence, both of them lost in a deep slumber.


    213


    Then, Evangeline''s eyes fluttered open. She nced over at the couch and saw Walter''s silhouette.


    He had not left after all.


    Late autumn''s chill crept into the room despite the hum of the air conditioner. Walter, tall and usually soposed, was huddled on the small couch, looking unexpectedly vulnerable in the cool night air. Evangeline shut her eyes tight, trying to block out the image that had just unsettled her, but her thoughts were a tangled mess.


    She sat up abruptly, whispering fiercely to herself, "I owe you one. Happy now?"


    She grabbed a small nket from the nearby cab, determined to drape it over Walter.


    Once she had tucked the nket around him, she crouched by the couch, studying the man before her.


    Despite his usual gruff demeanor, Evangeline sighed softly. There was no denying he had a certain charm, a natural grace that even his bad moods could not overshadow.


    His features were striking, his presence always a bit aloof. His lips, usually set in at thin line, seemed to hold back a world of secrets.


    She was lost in thought, watching him, when a frosty voice broke the silence.


    "Seen enough?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 69

    Evangeline had not guessed Walter was only pretending to sleep. A wave of embarrassment washed over her. She had been about to cover him with a nket, and he had not been asleep at all! Her well-intended action then felt like a cruel joke.


    Evangeline snapped, "I was just looking at an animal."


    Walter narrowed his eyes, taken aback by the woman''s biting wit as soon as she opened her mouth. He clicked his tongue and pulled Evangeline close.


    He was curious to taste her defiant spirit.


    Their lips met in a deep, unexpected kiss.


    Surprisingly, her kiss was sweet, a stark contrast to her sharp words.


    The thought lingered in Walter''s mind,pelling him to kiss her more intensely.


    Evangeline had not seen iting. Walter''s lips had swiftly moved from hers to her neck, leaving a trail of fervent kisses that sent a wave of tension through the air. She snapped back to reality.


    Why should she let him have his way?


    She had wanted a child, and he had tly refused, leaving her humiliated. All that, and he just decided to kiss her on a whim?


    Evangeline shoved Walter away. "Get lost!"


    Her voice was unapologetically harsh as she turned and retreated to her bed.


    The broken spell left Walter''s face growing stern with annoyance.


    His pride would not let him grovel after being rejected. He massaged his aching temples, trying to regain hisposure.


    He had been fooled into thinking that Evangeline''s act of kindness, covering him with a nket, signaled a change in her demeanor. No, she was still the same unpleasant person. He settled his mind, tucking away thest traces of affection as if the


    put to bed.


    were a dreamBelongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    AVA


    Come morning, the tension from the previous night lingered. Evangeline woke with a frosty look.


    "Leave today. I don''t want to see you here again," she told Walter icily as she walked


    away.


    Walter had gotten a good read on Evangeline''s fiery spirit and chose to stay silent.


    Evangeline stepped out, her day packed with tasks. The Foster family''s business deals were at a tipping point, and she had to keep a close watch.


    However, the moment she left, she felt something off.


    Driving through downtown, she could not shake the feeling of being followed.


    With a sigh, Evangeline rested her head on her hand, her eyes a picture of weary


    eptance.


    She had not thought Walter would be so paranoid as to still have her tailed.


    A few thoughtful taps on the steering wheel, and she veered left, taking a detour.


    Her destination was Crystal Waters House.


    Aria had been asking to see her for ages, and it was high time she paid a visit.


    Aria, known for her morning tea ritual at Crystal Waters, would be there. Evangeline made a beeline for the ce.


    Inside, she gave her name to the host, who showed her to a private room. Pushing the door open, there sat Aria, as expected.


    Aria was startled by Evangeline''s unexpected arrival, her eyes briefly betraying her


    distaste.


    "Have you no decency? Barging in on someone''s meal, you''re just like a boorish country bumpkin-so irritating!"


    Evangeline, unfazed and eyes brimming with silent frustration, took a seat across from the woman.


    "Unless I''m mistaken, you''ve been the one asking to meet, haven''t you? Me being here is already more courtesy than you deserve. So, what''s so important?" she said, tossing her bag onto the table with a nonchnt air.


    Aria dabbed at her lips with a napkin, her gaze sweeping over Evangeline in a cool,


    measured way.


    There was just something about her daughter-inw that she could not warm up to.


    After a brief moment of thought, Aria reached into her ourse and pulled out a document, sliding it across the table to Evangeline. "B. smart and sign this. Divorce Walter, and the Gordons will make sure you''re wellpensated," she said, her voice smooth as silk. Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with mischief as she took the paper, her curiosity piqued. She wondered just how much Aria disliked her that she always had such a document. at the ready. Reading through it, Evangeline had to concede internally- the offer was indeed tempting. However


    "Sorry to burst your bubble, but it''s not that I want to stay married to your son. He''s the one who won''t let go. Maybe you should try your persuasive skills on him first," replied Evangeline, her smile sweet and guileless.


    To Aria, however, it looked like sheer bragging. Aria''s eyebrows shot up, her eyes shing with irritation. "What are you bbering about? My son is a catch, and he wouldn''t be caught dead clinging to you!"


    Just then, Aria''s eyesnded on something at Evangeline''s neck, and her expression brightened as if she had struck gold. Pointing sharply, her voice took on an edge, "What on earth is that on your neck?" The hickey was unmistakable, and Aria had spotted it immediately.


    A wave of anger crashed through Aria''s chest. She knew better than anyone how her son Walter treated Evangeline-with utter disdain. He would not so much asy a finger on her, let alone get close enough for any real contact. That hickey on Evangeline''s neck could only mean one thing.


    "You''ve been messing around with other guys behind Walter''s back!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 70

    Chapter 70


    Evangeline winced as Aria''s piercing voice echoed in her ears, prompting her to reflexively rub them.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    There were times Evangeline seriously considered getting Aria some throat lozenges to save her voice and her sanity. How did Aria manage to vell like that day in and day out?


    Evangeline nonchntly replied, "Sorry to burst your bubble, but that''s your son''s handiwork. He can be a bit rough, but I can''t say I mind it..."


    Evangeline watched Aria''s face twist with fury, her nose nearly bending out of shape.


    Evangeline had figured it out. Aria just could not stand the thought of her son being affectionate with her.


    "No way! You must''ve slipped him something, you temptress!" Aria red at Evangeline as if trying to bore holes into her with her eyes.


    Deep down, Aria was making ns. She could not let Walter and Evangeline carry on like that. Evangeline was too cunning. If she ever got her way, it would be a disaster!


    With those thoughts, Aria discreetly pressed the service bell. A waiter appeared, listened to her hushed instructions, and then left, returning to her poised and polished facade. Momentster, the waiter returned, bearing a cup of coffee on a tray.


    "Here''s your coffee, miss." The waiter set it down next to Evangeline with a practiced grace before turning to leave.


    Aria put on an act of contrition. "Evie, I got a little carried away just now, and that''s on me. I mean, if there''s no spark between you and Walter, why keep the dance going, right? It''ll only end in tears. "Give that contract a good thought. I''ll smooth things over with Walter, too."


    Evangeline eyed the coffee by her hand, a chuckle bubbling up inside her.


    Did Aria really take her for a toddler, offering a mix of harshness and sweetness and expecting her to buy the good guy act?


    She did not need a crystal ball to know there was something fishy about that coffee.


    Chapter


    However, the memory of Walter''s goons talling her that morning gave her pause. With a soft smile, she said, "Alright, I''ll mull it over at home."


    With that, she took a few sips of the coffee.


    Out of the corner of her eye, she caught Aria''s grin stretching wider.


    Soon enough, she feigned heavy drowsiness, resting her head che table, and pretended to sleep.


    Aria, pleased with herself, made a call. "Come and take care of her for me."


    Walter had been at the Gordon Group building since dawn, his day packed with meetings. Thepany was buzzing with issues that demanded his watchful eye.


    Yet, in those meetings, his attention kept straying to his phone.


    Theck of updates from theckeys he had sent to shadow Evangeline was gnawing at him.


    He toyed with his phone, waiting for that all-important message.


    The room was thick with confusion as the staff caught the odd look on Walter''s face. Walter, the quintessential workaholic, was known for his no-nonsense approach to work, especially in meetings where he expected undivided attention. However, something was off on this day, and it had everyone silently questioning.


    Walter''s phone suddenly lit up, and he snatched it up.


    A text from his team read, [Mr. Walter Gordon, Mrs. Walter Gordon is visiting Mdm. Gordon, and they''re still chatting away in the restaurant. Nothing else to report.]


    It was a simple update, but it twisted Walter''s face into a frown. He knew all too well his mother''s distaste for Evangeline, and the thought of them sharing a cozy chat over coffee wasughable. As he tapped his fingers on the table, wrestling with the idea of halting the mee


    An unknown number had sent a picture message. He opened it, and his eyes narrowed in shock. The image showed a woman, bare and beautiful, her face hidden. by flowing hair.


    The message was a clear jab. [Mr. Walter Gordon, your wife is quite the catch.]


    Rage rocketed through Walter, and he shot up from his seat, his outburst silencing the room. No one dared make a sound, all wondering who had dared to cross him.


    Walter stormed out of the conference room, his face set in an icy re. His fingers were clenched so tightly around his phone that his knuckles had turned white. Rage was consuming him, leaving no room for rational thought.


    He made a beeline for his phone and barked at one of his guys for an address.


    Without wasting another second, he made his way to the restaurant.


    1

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 71

    Chapter 71


    Walter was fuming. "What was she thinking, running off like that? Said she was visiting my mother, but I bet she was out with some guy. Does she want a baby that bad, to the point where any man will do?"


    Hisst shred of sanity was gone, and all he could think about was tracking down Evangeline.


    Over at Crystal Waters House, in a hotel room upstairs, Evangeline lounged back, one leg crossed over the other, eyeing the group of half-naked men before her. "Put some muscle into it!" she snapped. "What, did you skip breakfast or something?" The men, d only in underwear, knelt on the floor, their faces a mix of fear and anger. With eachmand from her, they pped themselves harder, chanting, "I am not human!" It was a smallfort to Evangeline to see them like that. They were Aria''sckeys, sent to strip her and snap some scandalous photos.


    Evangeline had tough internally. As if such a cheap trick could take her down!


    She already spat out the drugged coffee and then dealt with those goons without breaking a sweat. After all, she was not just any fighter; she was a ck-market mixed martial arts champ. Those guys had no idea who they were messing with. Suddenly, amotion outside caught her attention-rapid, chaotic footsteps. She knew it had to be Walter,ing for her after getting the tip-off. A smirk yed on her lips.


    Oh, the real fun was about to start.


    The muscle-bound men stood there, eyes bulging, as the woman who had just taken them all down without breaking a sweat tousled her hair, her face then painted with a vulnerability that did not match her earlier disy of strength. They were all dazed, still trying to piece together what had just happened.


    Suddenly, the door flew off its hinges with a solid kick.


    Walter had braced himself for an erotic tableau, but he had not bargained for a crowd.


    A hush fell over the room. It was awkward.


    Dead silence.


    With a clenched jaw, Walter said, "You''ve got quite the appetite, huh, Evangeline? Mixing it up with five guys?"


    The tough guys nched, shaking their heads and waving their hands, desperate to clear their names.


    However, Evangeline looked as if she had been pped with the ultimate insult. Her eyes went wide, the edges quickly reddening, and tears eamed down her face like


    they were on sale.


    "Walter! What kind of monster are you?


    "You and your mother team up against me, drug me, and throw men into my bed. Now you''re pinning this on me?! If I hadn''t been smart enough to catch on to her scheme, I''d be... I''d be..."


    Evangeline''s voice broke, and she could not finish. She covered her face, weeping -softly.


    Each sob hit Walter like a hammer, as if someone was literally squeezing his heart.


    "Evie..." he said softly, a tenderness in his voice he had never used with her before, but he was at a loss for words.


    Seeing his remorse, Evangeline stormed over and delivered a stinging p across his face.R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ''That felt good!''


    She kept that victorious thought to herself, maintaining the look of someone deeply wronged.


    "You and your mother are nothing but trouble. If she thinks her son isn''t up to par, she shouldn''t be bringing a parade of men into my bed. And if you don''t want to have kids with me, you don''t have to team up with your mom to take me down!" Her eyes seethed with hatred as she red at Walter. "Don''t worry, when I''m ready for kids, I''ll find someone else to have them. I''m done with you!"


    Stunned by the p, Walter was slow to react. By the time he snapped back to reality, she was already storming away, running as if desperate to get away from him.


    Walter felt a pang of urgency and quickly instructed his men, "Keep an eye on Mrs. Walter Gordon. Make sure she''s safe!"


    Afterward, he massaged his throbbing forehead, trying to piece together the whole


    mess.


    His steely gazended on the group of tough guys, his eyes frosty and emotionless.


    The men exchanged uneasy nces, feeling the weight of his intimidating presence, wishing they could just disappear.


    All of them kept their heads down, too scared to look Walter in the eye, uncertain of what was toe.


    His voice was icy, "Who sent you here?"


    The men pleaded, bowing frantically, "It was... It was Mdm. Gordon!"


    At the mention of that name, Walter''s heart plummeted.


    Damn it! It was indeed his mother!


    He could never quite grasp why his mother would stoop so low. However, one thing was clear: Evangeline had been deeply wronged.


    The image of her when he had burst in haunted him: Her hair a mess, tears staining her cheeks, bruises marring her skin. She had clearly been through an ordeal, and it made his heart ache with each throb. How could he possibly have the nerve to confront Evangeline like that?


    Walter wished he could turn back time just to smack some sense into his former self.


    He was desperate to step out and track down Evangeline. He could not bear the thought of hering to any more harm.


    His assistant, who was always right on his heels, quickly stepped in to stop him.


    The room was still a mess with a few big problems left unresolved.


    The assistant looked at the group, feeling a bit out of his depth. "Mr. Walter Gordon, these guys..."


    The tough-looking men were shaking in their boots, close to tears. They had thought they were in for an easy gig, not realizing it could cost them their careers.


    They bowed, silently begging Walter to let them off the hook.


    Walter''s gaze was icy as he said in a chilling tone, "I want them gone from this city


    for good. I never want toy eyes on them a

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 72

    Chapter 72


    "Understood!"


    Amid Walter''s frantic preparations to dash downstairs and drive after Evangeline, his phone rang.


    His subordinate''s voice came through, trying to sound light despite the bad news, Sir, we''ve lost track of Mrs. Walter Gordon...


    Walter''s fists tightened, fury bubbling up inside him. "A bunch of useless fools!"


    Evangeline was in a fragile state, emotionally shattered. Without someone by her side, who knew what might happen? He could not bear to think about it.


    As he wrestled with his worries, a call came in from his mother, Aria.


    "Walter, you wouldn''t believe the racy photo your wife sent today." Aria clucked disapprovingly. "A woman like that, so flighty and flirtatious, just doesn''t belong in the Gordon family. You need to kick her out, and fast." Aria was smug, waiting for Walter''s agreement. Instead, a frosty voice came through the phone.


    "Mom, cut the act. I know you''re behind all this."


    Aria''s heart skipped a beat. Walter''s voice had never been so icy. "Walter... What are you saying? I don''t quite follow."


    With Evangeline missing and their rtionship strained by misunderstandings, Walter was at his wit''s end and had no patience for his mother''s games.


    "Listen, Mom, if you interfere with our lives again, don''t be surprised if I turn my back


    I on you. Go ahead, test me. See what happens when you push me too far!"


    With those final words, Walter hung up, leaving no room for Aria to retort.


    Staring at the silent phone, Aria''s hand went to her chest. She knew her son well enough that he was a man of action, not just words.


    Could he really cut ties with her over Evangeline? The thought alone made her shudder, and she quickly pushed it away.


    Meanwhile, Walter had mobilized every resource at his disposal, determined to find. Evangeline. He would turn the world upside down if he had to, but he would bring her


    back.


    Walter was well aware that he had messed up this time, and thest thing he wanted was for Evangeline to take the fall for his blunder. As he stewed in his frustration, a message popped up out of the blue. [Mystic Opal Hill''s Racing Queen Makes a Comeback!]


    He had really dropped the ball with Evangeline this time. Given her fiery spirit, she could be anywhere, raising hell for all he knew.


    +


    However, he had to own up to his mistake and track her down to set things straight. He could not let Evangeline just vanish whenever she felt like it.


    The capital was maze, and he did not even know where to start his search. To


    his calls.


    make matters worse, Roslyn gave him the cold shoulder and did not answe very


    Walter drove on, lost in thought, and somehow ended up at Mystic Opal Hill, the very heart of the racing goddess''s showdown.


    As race cars screamed past, he was struck by a sense of destiny. It was as if some unseen force had led him there, to Evangeline.


    He pulled up at the race site and got out, instantly bing the center of attention. The crowd was used to rich kids


    in racing gear, but Walter, in his sharp suit, was a sight they had not seen before. His dashing looks sent a wave of screams through the girls, and even a few guys could not help but whistle.


    Ignoring the gawking crowd, Walter was approached by a girl who was all bold in fashion and attitude. Her dreadlocks were woven with rainbow ribbons, and her nose ringplemented her sassy, yet stunning, look. She shed a marker at him and tugged at her top. "Hey, handsome, how about you give me your digits?" she asked, her tattooed. shoulder on full disy.


    The crowd at that spot was always young and lively, with a ir for the dramatic. They wore their hearts on their sleeves, were quick to fall in love or out, and did not shy away from flirting with a total stranger.


    Walter paused for a second before jotting down Caden''s number.


    He could not keep this gem to himself. Caden would be thanking him big timeter.


    "I''m Lisa, and I''ll be in touch tonight." With a yful wink and a blown kiss, she set


    the crowd buzzing once more.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Hey Lisa, is the ''Racing Goddess'' showing up at Mystic Opal Hill tonight?" asked Walter, scribbling away.


    "Why, don''t I measure up to goddess status?" she flirted, eyeing Walter. However, even as he met her gaze, his eyes were free of any ulterior motive.


    Lisa caught on quickly. "Seems like most guys are here for her. Didn''t peg you as one of them. She''s in the middle of a race, should be down in a few." "Thanks." Walter''s chivalry earned him a smile.


    "Such a waste of a fine-looking guy. If the goddess gives you the cold shoulder,e find me," she teased.


    The thunder of engines rolled in, pulling all eyes from Walter to the track.


    "Talk about making an entrance, the Motorcycle Goddess clocks in at fifteen minutes, thirty seconds! First ce, smashing thest pro''s record by a whole chunk! Cheers erupted as the crowd surged forward.


    Stepping off her bike, a woman in sleek ck leather stole the show. Her outfit hugged her curves and long legs. Just like that, she had everyone''s attention.


    +7

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 73

    hapter 73Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Goddess! Goddess!" The crowd chanted loudly, her star shining brightest on the racetrack tonight.


    In the throng of people, there was someone encircled by fans, her silhouette and stance a mirror image of Evangeline''s. She even brought to mind the defiant figure who had given Evangeline the finger at Sunlit Heights. Was it truly her? Walter elbowed his way through the crowd.


    "Let''s race. The prize? The winner takes the loser''s night. Are you game?" he said, locking eyes with the queen of the racetrack.


    The woman hesitated, her reaction silencing the crowd momentarily.


    Staking one''s own night was a bold move.


    "So, if I lose, you ''own'' me?" she asked, her tone not quite matching Evangeline''s.


    "That''s right. However, if you lose, you''re mine tonight," said Walter, emphasizing every word.


    She let out a scoff,ced with scorn. "I won''t lose. But sure, I''ll bet against you, just to see that look of scorn wiped off your faceter. Unless I''m mistaken, weren''t you the one who lost the mountain racest time?"


    She was still the same fiercepetitor from Sunlit Heights.


    Noticing the Rolls Royce Phantom behind Walter, she quipped, "Really? You''re challenging me in that?"


    Walter strode over to a fellow racer, flipping him the keys. "Let''s make a deal, this car''s yours."


    The young racer, born into wealth, knew well that Walter''s ride was worth more than a fleet of his own. Grinning, he epted the keys and handed over a polished helmet to Walter. The other racers looked on enviously, wishing they had been the ones to strike such a deal Their eyes met, both filled with fierce determination. As the starting gun fired, they took off like arrows from a bow, leaving behind nothing but a cloud of dust.


    "Wow, look at him go! That guy''s got some serious skills," someone in the crowd marveled.


    The kid who had just sold his car was left ck-jawed, scratching his head in disbelief. "Holy cow, is that really my old ride? It''s like a rocket! Part of me wishes I hadn''t sold it."


    "Don''t y coy just because you snagged a bargain.


    "Any bets on who''s taking home the win tonight?"


    "Come on, it''s a no-brainer. The goddess got this in the 3g. That dude''s money didn''t help himst time at Sunlit Heights. He''s probably in for another embarrassing sprint up the mountain tonight!" Meanwhile, Walter and Evangeline were oblivious to the chatter down below. For them, the serpentine mountain road was the only thing that existed, and victory was the only thing on their minds.


    However, Mystic Opal Hill was a beastpared to Sunlit Heights, with its higher elevation and icy roads at night. Walter kept his focus on the road and on


    Evangeline''s every move.


    They raced through the night like specters, their cars darting between the trees and shadows.


    Sparks flew from the motorcycle''s tires, leaving a glittering trail on the asphalt.


    A fallen branch blocked Evangeline''s path. At those speeds, dodging meant a dangerous turn, and on the icy road, their only choice was to slow down and switchnes. However, slowing down could mean losing it all. Evangeline did not let up. She gunned the engine, aiming to jump right over the obstacle. It was a risky move on the downhill slope, practically flirting with death.


    Her bike soared over the gap like a wild horse leaping a ravine, but as soon as it touched down, the icy road sent it into a treacherous slide.


    Walter did not hesitate. With a swift maneuver, he steered his bike against


    Evangeline''s, preventing her from a disastrous swerve. In a sh, they both crashed to the ground.


    Rolling across the dirt, Walter clung to Evangeline, their bodiesing to a stop after several tumbles. Thankfully, their helmets had spared them from serious harm. Are


    you okay?" Walter''s voice wasced with concern as he helped her to her feet. "I''m fine, but what about you?" Evangeline brushed herself off, her heart still racing +75 BONUS


    from the near miss. If Walter had not intervened, she could have been a goner, her bike a twisted wreck at the bottom of the hill.


    In that critical moment, he had thrown caution to the wind to save her, a total stranger. Maybe he was not as indifferent as she had thought.


    He was a decent guy, risking it all for someone he did not know. However, why did he have to be the one to break her heart so thoroughly?


    "I''m good," said Walter, standing up and shaking off the dust.


    Relieved that he was unharmed, Evangeline jumped back on her bike and took off without a word. She had a race to win. Walter had bet on himself, and she would not disappoint. She was determined to make him lose, big time, to pay him back for his cockines Walter watched her speed away, then quickly mounted his bike to chase after her. She was ying with fire.


    Goddess! She was a goddess on wheels!


    "Wow, fourteen minutes! The goddess just set a new record at fifteen minutes!" someone eximed.


    "That''s insanely quick. Most racers can''t evene close!"


    Little did they know, Evangeline had lost precious time from her fall. Had she not, her record would have been even more jaw-dropping.


    As the striking figure in ck made her grand return, the crowd''s anticipation reached a fever pitch. They erupted into cheers, weing back their queen with


    open arms.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 74

    Chapter 74


    A fan club waved their light-up signs in the air, celebrating the queen''s arrival, their cheers thunderous in the throng.


    Walter was seething with a possessive rage, feeling as though his brightest star had been stolen from him.


    "You''ve won, congrattions. Tonight, you own me," said Walter, his gaze intense and piercing as he pushed through the crowd to face he


    Evangeline''s eyes were icy,ced with scorn, Walter was hopelessly sentimental, rooted to the spot at the mere sight of the racing goddess. He had chased her from Sunlit Heights to Mystic Opal Hill, still ying the lover while refusing to let go of their marriage. What would his reaction be if he discovered she was the same racing goddess


    ne adored?


    Imagining Walter''s dumbstruck face made Evangeline chuckle. She removed her helmet, her ck hair tumbling down like a waterfall, her stunning features then fully visible to the wind and the world.


    Her gaze met his mockingly. "Sorry to burst your bubble," she said, her eyes gleaming with defiance.


    Walter''s face turned to stone, a chilling mask of shock.


    The crowd got a clear view of the racing goddess''s true identity-it was Evangeline, the same woman who had made headlines for her dramatic divorce from Walter and for ruthlessly evicting her own parents. The buzz around her was infamous. The once eager crowd recoiled, realizing that was a woman who would not even spare a magnate like Walter any dignity.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    No matter how alluring, no one wanted to keep a beautiful but deadly poison at home.


    There, among the spectators, was the wealthy Walter, then recognized by all as the man from the rumors.


    The ce usually buzzed with kids from business dynasties, but no one dared cross the Gordons. As themotion settled, the crowd thinned out, leaving only Walter and Evangeline behind.


    Chapter


    Evangeline was about to take off when Walter caught her, pressing her against his car. The guy who had swapped cars with him earlier did not even have the guts to take off after finding out who Walter truly was.


    "You''re full of surprises, aren''t you, race queen? What else are you hiding from me?" asked Walter, his voice edged with curiosity.


    They were standing too close forfort. Evangeline could feel the danger radiating off Walter like he was some kind of predator ready to snap. She pushed him away with all her might.


    Walter winced, holding his chest, his face twisted in pain. He had taken a tumble from the car while saving Evangeline. She was fine, but he had taken the brunt of it.


    "You''re hurt?" Evangeline''s voice wasced with concern.


    "Yeah, right here," said Walter, gesturing to his heart.


    Evangeline could not help but roll her eyes. Leave it to Walter to crack jokes even then. Nheless, she could not shake off the guilt. After all, he had gotten hurt trying to save her.


    11


    "If you''re genuinely hurt, get to a hospital. Just send me the bill, and I''ll take care of it, she said, slipping on her helmet. With a swift, graceful motion, she was on her bike and gone. "You''re leaving me here, just like that?" Walter was stunned. She used to be so caring. He remembered how she had even bought him medicine for a simple stomach ache.


    "What else could I do? I''m not a doctor, and I can''t treat you. Besides, it''s your chest that''s hurt, not your leg. You''ve got a car, don''t you? Drive yourself back!" Evangeline revved up her motorcycle and sped away from the racetrack without a backward nce. The lively ce was then deserted, leaving Walter alone in the biting wind.


    Regret washed over him. Why had he not learned to value what he had? He remembered how he had carelessly thrown away the medicine right in front of Evangeline.


    He could not imagine how she must have felt at the time, but it seemed like it really hurt Evangeline.


    Wahe climbed into his car, where the radio was abuzz with thetest on the racing sensation. The woman he was divorcing, the one he had taken for granted, was the same goddess the online world could not stop talking about. It hit hirm then just how Incredible she truly was


    He had been so blind, never seeing her true value, mistaking all her kindness for mere ttery.


    However, the truth was that Evangeline had never owed him a thing.


    Back at home, Aria was glued to the television, which was also airing the reveal of the racing queen''s identity. The sight of that helmeting off made Aria''s blood boil.


    "Walter, take a good look. This is the woman you were so smitten with. She''s been masquerading as the perfect wife in the Gordon family for two years. Now she''s asking for a divorce, and before she''s even out the door, she''s out there showing off, ying the racing quee "What kind of respectable girl gets into racing and lets herself be idolized by these creeps? I''ll tell you what she is-a harlot! She''s brought nothing but shame to the Gordon name!"


    Walter''s voice was icy as he confronted Aria. "Mom, you need to treat Evangeline with respect. And don''t think I''m clueless about what you didst time. I just chose not to call you out on it."


    Aria''s voice shot up in pitch, incredulous at his coldness. "Walter, what are you saying? I''m your mother! Are you really going to turn your back on me for that woman?"


    "It''s precisely because you''re my mother that I''ve looked the other way so many times. Trust me, if you were anyone else, it wouldn''t slide."


    Disgust flickered in Walter''s eyes as he looked at Aria, a reaction that almost broke her.


    She clutched at his sleeve, her voice desperate. "Did she turn you against me? You''ve changed since she arrived. I won''t let her get away with this!"


    Walter pulled away and stepped back. "This is on you, not her. Can''t you see how shameful your actions are? I''m telling you, stop hanging out with Julia and her family.


    "Walter, I''m your mother! How can you speak to me this way?" Aria''s face twisted with rage, a far cry from the poise of a well-breddy.


    "Yes, you''re my mother, and it''s high time you started acting like one. Stay out of my business. Your credit card? It''s cut off until you apologize to Evangeline." With those final, frosty words, Walter turned and headed upstairs.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 75

    Walter needed to see how Trey was doing. His grandfather had lost his appetite since Evangeline''s departure, and Walter was worried about his health.


    Upon entering, he found Trey engrossed in thetest news about Evangeline, his eyes gleaming with admiration.


    Walter caught the look on his grandfather''s face, which held no trace of shock at the revtion that Evangeline was a queen of the racetrack.


    "Grandpa, you knew about this all along, didn''t you?" Walter probed.


    Without even bothering to nce back, Trey responded, "You''ve been Evie''s husband for how long and are still clueless? What could I possibly know that you don''t?"


    The old man''s tone wasced with irritation. "Evie''s a rose that''s been nted in a pile of manure!" He shook his head in dismay. "How on earth did the Gordons end up with a dud like you?" "Grandpa, I admit I messed up before, but is there anything else you know about Evangeline?" pressed Walter, desperate to uncover all he could about her.


    "I''ve said it before, I don''t know a thing. If you really care, go dig up the truth yourself!


    The mere thought made Trey see red.


    His once-favored granddaughter-inw, her potential squandered by that good-for- nothing.


    "Remember, there''s a board meeting for thepany tomorrow. You''re expected to be there, and so is Evie," Trey mentioned.


    Walter was baffled. "Why would Evangeline need to attend the Gordon Group''s board meeting?"


    "I''m nning to give Evie a slice of the Gordon Group''s shares for you to oversee. Walter''s face turned stormy.


    Sure, Trey was fond of Evangeline, but with their marriage on the rocks and a divorce looming, was giving her the shares not the same as throwing them away? However, he knew better than to challenge his grandfather''s will, so he stormed off, fuming.


    Back at thepany, Waller summoned Oscar to his office. "Any leads on Evangelely?" he inquired, his voice tinged with expectation.


    Oscar felt a bead of sweat trickle down his temple. How could he confess that heThis material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    had hit a dead end?


    Normally, he would have a person''s entire lineage mapped out in no time, but Evangeline was an enigma. Even probing into her father''s history got him nowhere.


    All trails led to her sixth birthday, and then nothing She had been whisked away to the countryside to live with her grandfather, and when Oscar followed up, he found the vige deserted with nothing left but crumbling walls.


    It was a ghost town. He could not even rustle up a stray dog for questioning.


    "Well, I did discover that Mrs. Walter Gordon is a top-notch race car driver. The'' Racing Queen'' that''s been all over the news? That''s her," Oscar replied, resorting to stating the obvious.


    "Dig deeper!" snapped Walter, his impatience evident as he juggled other, more pressing concerns and barely registered Oscar''s report.


    "Right away," said Oscar, nodding vigorously as he made a swift exit to resume his


    search.


    Walter had that gut feeling that Evangeline was actually part of the Foster family, and not just because she was connected to James. In the capital, only the Fosters had the clout to make someone vanish without a trace, leaving the Gordons clueless for years.


    Maybe she was the enigmatic Foster heiress, and the woman he had seen was just a


    smokescreen.


    That was the only exnation that fit.


    Oscar was on his way out when Walter''s voice stopped him in his tracks. He was terrified that Walter had dredged up the pointless report he had babbled earlier.


    "Find me a picture of Cole, the gambling legend who took Ashiana by storm," ordered Walter.


    ''Great, another headache,'' Oscar thought, mopping his brow. Why did every assignment have to be so tough?


    "I''ve tried to dig up Cole''s picture before, out of curiosity. There were some in the old


    newspapers, but they were too fuzzy to make out. Rumor has it he was quite the looker in his youth, charmed his way into the local mob, and married the boss''s daughter. Supposedly, that was how he made his name."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 76

    Chapter 76R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Oscar was a die-hard Cole fan. Cole''srger-than-life tale had even hit the silver screen, with flicks like ''The Gambling King''s Saga'' and ''The Gambler and His


    Three Thousand Ladies''. He had grown up on those stories and had dreamt more than once of being spotted by Cole, bing his protege, and ruling the casinos. He imagined striking it rich overnight and living a life dripping with wealth and excess. The harsh truth was that his job was breaking his heart day after day, and trying to find someone had be as futile as searching for a needle in a haystack, with the constant threat of getting the ax hanging over his head.


    The next morning, Walter was up with the stars, waiting outside Evangeline''s old ce-a charming Victorian house she had lived in as a kid, back when her mother was still around.


    Walter remembered how her mother was a woman with flowing hair and warmth that could light up a room.


    Staring at the house brought a flood of childhood memories. He had lived just around the corner, and he and Evangeline had been inseparable like two peas in a pod. They had walked to school together, she had gifted him a bamboo dragonfly, and he had shown her how to make kites from scratch.


    They had run through fields, kites soaring behind them until the strings ran out and the kites slipped away into the sky-just like they eventually did from each other''s lives.


    Time had flown by too fast. They had been so close back then, and he could not figure out how everything had changed so much.


    Evangeline was up at the crack of dawn, too. Trey had asked her to swing by the Gordon Group building for a chat, and she had no clue what it was about. Maybe he was gearing up for


    a divorce and nning to hand over half of Walter''s fortune to her. It was Walter''s loss, and she was not one to turn down a freebie.


    She dolled herself up, ready to step into a new, wealthy chapter of her life.


    Stepping out, her eyes caught a glimpse of a license te with the number 777-a lucky streak most people would not even spot.


    Walter rolled down his window, a dashingly handsome face greeting her, "Heading to Gordon Group? Hop in, I''ll drive you."


    425 BONUS


    The morning had started off on the wrong foot when Evangeline, trying to keep her cool, firmly said, "Thanks, but it''s not necessary. I''ll just grab a cab!"


    Walter looked around at the passersby and smirked, "If you don''t hop in, I might just give everyone a show. After all, your fame as the ''racing queen'' is pretty hard to miss.


    Reluctantly, Evangeline slid into the passenger seat. "Just so you know, I''m not backing down from a fight. It just so happens we''re headed the same way, and we might as well discuss the divorce," she snapped.


    Walter''s smile widened, knowing he had won this round. "We''ve got a good thirty minutes ahead of us. Plenty of time to talk.


    Evangeline spent the ride ignoring Walter, the tension thick in the air. At least Walter was a skilled driver, and they reached Gordon Group ahead of schedule.


    He parked in a secluded spot behind thepany''s building, surrounded by trees.


    "Why here? It''s a good fifteen-minute walk," Evangelineined, not in the mood for an awkward trek with Walter.


    "I''ll need you to y a part in a little actter," said Walter cryptically.


    "And why would I do that? We''re getting divorced, Walter. What are you up to now?"


    she demanded.


    As Evangeline unbuckled her seatbelt to leave, Walter pushed her back into the seat. She tried to knee him, but he was quicker, pinning her down with his leg.


    Her hair fell in disarray around her face as Walter held her down, their bodies pressed together so tightly that Evangeline struggled to breathe.


    Evangeline was frozen in a pose too suggestive to risk even the slightest movement, afraid of an idental, inappropriate touch. She realized any attempt to fight back was pointless. She locked eyes with Walter and dropped her guard. "Out with it, what''s your grand n?" Evangeline''s sweet fragrance wafted through the car, leaving Walter visibly enchanted.


    "Now you''re ying nice," he remarked, eyeing the subdued Evangeline. "Today, you''re going to be the doting wife at the office, squash those divorce rumors, and let everyone think we''ve just hit a rough patch."


    "Walter, are you out of your mind? After everything, you think I''ll just roll over? No way! "Evangeline''s anger red. Did he really take her for fool?


    "Just for today. Your little stunt hurt Gordon Group''s reputation, and our stocks took a dive. Don''t you think you owe us some damage control?"


    "In your dreams! Why should I do anything you say?" Evangeline snapped back, realizing his early morning pickup was anything but a kind gesture.


    Walter''s voice, smooth and seductive, brushed herear. "You could say no, but I wouldn''t mind giving the crowd a live show of our ''marital bliss'' right here in the car. Either way, I get what I want." His words left Evangeline seething with humiliation and rage.


    1


    Blinded by anger, she sank her teeth into Walter''s shoulder. "You''re insane, Walter, and utterly despicable!"


    Walter grimaced from the pain but quickly regained hisposure. "Looks like I''m due for a rabies shot," he quipped.


    Once again, she was at the mercy of that devil.


    Evangeline was cornered by Walter''s threats. He might have lost all sense of shame, but she still held onto hers.


    Walter pulled up to thepany''s bustling main entrance, and with all eyes on them, Evangeline clung to his arm as they made their grand entrance into the lobby.


    **S BOUS

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 77

    Chapter 77


    Thepany was abuzz with shock. It had been a whirlwind of bombshells for days. Walter and Evangeline


    had kept their marriage under wraps, and since Evangeline had never set foot in thepany during their marriage, most employees were clueless about Walter''s marital status. The revtion of his marriage sent shockwaves through the office.


    Before anyone could catch their breath, the divorce rurs came crashing in, followed by another scoop.


    Hot on the heels of the divorce buzz, Walter''s so-called wife hit the headlines for her unique status and for telling her parents and her violin-prodigy sister she had nothing to do with them.


    The news cycle had not even cooled down when Evangeline''s secret life as a racing queen was exposed, sparking endless gossip. Gordon Group had turned into a media frenzy, with reporters infiltrating thepany in search of the scoop. Being in Walter Gordon''s orbit seemed to promise a life of luxury.


    Today, the staff were stunned to see the couple, who had been at the center of divorce drama just days before, strolling into the office, hand in hand, all lovey-dovey. It was enough to make anyone''s jaw hit the floor.


    Thepany was alive with whispers from the basement to the boardroom.


    "Weren''t Mr. Walter Gordon and his wife on the fast track to divorce? What''s with the cozy show today?"


    "Rich folks sure have a strange way of having fun, it''s beyond me."


    "Rumor has it Mrs. Walter Gordon left her husband for James Foster. Can you believe it?"


    "Big deal. Walter was sneaking around with her sister, wasn''t he? Why shouldn''t she have a little fun herself? That crowd is a mess."


    "Keep it down. Thest one who gossiped about Mrs. Gordon got canned by Walter himself. Let''s watch what we say."


    The whispers were like shadows, the hushed tones in dim corners spreading like


    wildfire.


    Evangeline stepped into the office to find the Gordon Group''s top brass seated in silence. The boardroom fell even quieter as she entered, all eyes on her, their looks sharp with animosity. She could not help but feel uneasy.


    This was overkill, was it not? It was just a matter of dividing up some of Walter''s fortune. There was no need for that grand disy.


    Trey sat at the head of the table, his nod and smile inviting Evangeline to take the seat beside him.


    She hesitated, but Walter tugged her down beside him.


    "As I''ve already told everyone, we''re transferring a portion of the Gordon Group shares to Evie," said Trey, sliding the share transfer papers toward Evangeline. "Go ahead and sign, Evie."


    The room was tense, faces drawn and uneasy, yet silence reigned. Trey had clearlyid the groundwork with the shareholders well before that meeting. After all, he was the architect of Gordon Group, holding the reins to steer its future and make the big calls.


    Today''s gathering was a formality, a courtesy rather than a consultation. The top brass watched powerlessly as Trey''s transfer involved only his personal slice of the pie, not the group''s shares. Still, the numbers were staggering.


    Evangeline''s eyes widened as she flipped through the contract, her breath catching in her throat.


    40 percent of the shares were on the line-Trey was practically handing her the keys to half of the Gordon empire. That 40 included Trey''s own 25 and, shockingly, 15 from Walter!


    She understood the gravity of it all too well. With that kind of stake, she would practically be royalty within Gordon Group.


    Confused, Evangeline''s gaze darted from Walter, who seemed unperturbed, to Trey. She half-expected that to be a mistake, a slip of the pen from an aging hand. "Come on, sign it, Evie," Trey pressed.


    "Grandpa, I just can''t." She pushed back, the weight of the advantage heavy on her conscience. She had entertained getting one over on Walter with the shares, but this was bigger than their squabbles. It was about the legacy of the Gordon family, and


    she was not about to tarnish it with selfishness.


    "Evie, you can do anything. You saved my life, and I''d be six feet under by now without you. You''re a good kid, and you''ve earned this," sair! Trey, trying to ease the burden he saw weighing on Evangeline''s shoulders.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Signing this paper doesn''t mean you''re chained to thepany. Just swing by when you feel like it. Or don''t-it''s all good. Walter''s got the business side covered. You? Just kick back, sip some coffee, hit the shops, and let the cash roll in."


    "Just sign here." Walter slipped the pen into Evangeline''s hand, leaning in close to whisper, "The old guard''s all here. Grandpa''s been bending their ears for ages. If you don''t sign now, you''re basically throwing him under the bus."


    Evangeline felt trapped, like she was stuck on a high wire with no way down, her mind a total nk. She could not even recall what was said in the meeting or how it wrapped up.


    Walter, almost floating, guided her into the office.


    "What''s the deal with that contract?" Evangeline finally snapped out of it and yanked her hand away from Walter.

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    Evangeline never imagined that not only had Trey passed on his shares to her, but Walter had handed over most of his stake as well.


    "What''s this about? You think I don''t feel valued? Now I''ve put everything-my whole worth and life-in your hands. You still want to walk away?" Walter closed in, his, presence overwhelming.


    "So, you''ve rigged the whole game, huh? To keep me from leaving, you''d gamble away your entire fortune?"


    "Isn''t it better this way? Stay Mrs. Walter Gordon, and share in the Gordon family''s legacy," said Walter.


    "What''s the point, Walter? You think I''m clueless? You''re just trying to save your own skin. I never thought you''d stoop so low, using threats like this! If I sign that paper, everyone will see me as the gold-digger who took the Gordons for all they''re worth and still walked out. I''ll be the talk of the town, and I might even get less in the divorce because of it. You''re beyond low."


    Evangeline had always known the world was not full of free lunches, especially not from Walter. Why would he make a move that did not serve his own interests? However, she had not expected him to dangle such a tempting offer. Childishly naive!


    "So, this is what you think of me?" Walter''s anger red at her usation, and he tossed his suit jacket onto the couch.


    "What else am I supposed to think? Listen, Walter, you can dream on. Thinking you can lock me down with this? Not happening!"


    With a flick of her wrist, Evangeline pped the documents against him and stormed off.


    In a swift move, Walter caught her and pinned her down on the couch. Thank goodness for the privacy of the one-way ss, or their heated exchange could have sparked another scandal in thepany.


    "I just don''t get you anymore. Weren''t you the one wanting a divorce to split our assets? Now that I''ve offered you the shares, you''re backing out. Evangeline, what is it that you really want?" Walter''s gaze was intense, his eyes searching hers for an


    answer.


    ChapterBelongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    *25 BONUS


    For the first time, locked in his gaze, Evangeline saw something different in those deep eyes of his.


    Was it a deep-seated love, or just a sense of resignation?


    Evangeline squirmed desperately beneath him, her movements akin to a frightened kitten.


    "Walter, release me." In that instant, Evangeline''s only thought was to flee. She could not let Walter''s gaze unsettle her, not when she had decided to move on.


    Years of pain at Walter''s hands had left deep scars. She would not let him wound her again.


    However, Walter, oblivious to her resistance, leaned in and kissed her gently, his lips soft and warm against her forehead. With that kiss, something inside her seemed to dissolve.


    "Walt!" Julia burst in, having hurried over after catching wind of the drama at Gordon Group. She never expected to find that scene upon opening the door to Walter''s office.


    Ever since Evangeline had ousted her, Julia had been seething with resentment, waiting for a chance to strike back. She was stunned to see Evangeline thriving, practically worshiped by all, while she was relegated to being known simply as ''the Violin Princess''. To make matters worse, she had be the butt of jokes after theirst encounter. On the other hand, Evangeline had not only cleared

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    Everything Julia had wed for, Evangeline seemed to possess without effort. Evangeline had Walter''s affection as well as fame, and it was infuriating.


    Julia had beenying low to avoid stirring up more gossip, but she could not even enjoy a few days of peace at home before Walter''s mother, Aria, casually mentioned, the share transfer, reigniting Julia''s smoldering rage. She had evene a day early to talk some sense into Walter, to convince him not to make a huge mistake. However, Aria, who was notorious for her blunders, had somehow mixed up the dates.


    By the time Julia got to the office, it was toote, and the deed was done. She walked right into Walter''s office to find him wrapped up in a steamy embrace with Evangeline.


    Julia''s hands balled into fists, her nails digging into her palms, but she could not let her rage show.


    Why did that woman, Evangeline, have to have everything, including trying to steal her man? No, Evangeline should have been left to wither away in obscurity, a nobody from the countryside. How dare she challenge her? Evangeline''s mother had never been able to outshine her mother Lydia, so how could Evangeline think she stood a chance?


    In a sh, Julia imagined a thousand ways to make Evangeline miserable, yet she remainedposed on the outside.


    "Walt, what on earth are you two doing?" she said, feigning shock and trying to break up their little tryst.


    "What does it look like?" Evangeline sneered, holding Walter back by his tie and nting a bold kiss on his neck, marking him with her lipstick.


    Walter, encouraged by Evangeline''s boldness, sat beside her, his arm draped over her slightly rumpled shoulder.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Evangeline, you''re shameless!" Julia fumed, stomping. She was done ying nice. Ever since Evangeline had kicked her out, she could not even bear to y the part of the sister anymore.


    "Really? Since when do you get a say in how we run our show? And barging in like this


    -what, hoping for a front-row seat to our private screening? Looks like you''re the one without a shred of decency!" Evangeline snapped back, her face an icy mask of disdain as she relished Julia''s difort. Julia, lips pinched in frustration, knew better than to expect any mercy from Evangeline and instead turned pleading eyes to Walter.


    "Walt, can we talk? Just the two of us? Maybe she could give us a minute?"


    Evangeline rose to her feet, and for a moment, Julia thought she had got the hint and would leave. However, Evangeline simply stretchednguidly and tossed Julia a dismissive nce.


    "Why should I go anywhere just because you say so? Not happening." She extended a hand to Walter and sweetly said, "Honey, carry me over, would you?"


    It was the first time Evangeline had ever yed the damsel with him, her whimsical charm utterly enchanting. Walter was amused by her kittenish antics; his little cat deserved to be pampered.


    He went along with her charade, intrigued by her game. Without a fuss, he scooped up Evangeline and, following her silent cue, settled her into the office''s throne-the CEO''s chair.


    Perched in power, Evangeline surveyed the room, her gazending on Julia with the amusement one might have for a joke.


    However, her demeanor was allposed confidence, fearless in the face of the drama.

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    "What''s on your mind that you need to tell my husband? Out with it-I''m all ears. Or, if you prefer, you two can have your little secret chat. Though, would you really leave me here, all by myself in the office, waiting, darling?" said Evangeline, her eyes yfully teasing Walter.


    Julia, witnessing that spectacle, was seething with rage.


    "Julia, if there''s something you need to say, let''s hear it. Right here, right now." Walter''s gaze shifted to Julia, the warmth gone and reced by a chill colder than the one he reserved for strangers. "I need to talk to you about our past project-it''s about work. Can we talk in private?" There was a touch of desperation in her voice.


    ''Walter, just look at me. I''m the one who really loves you,'' Julia silently pleaded.R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "I''m afraid I can''t be of much help anymore." Walter shrugged helplessly. "Evangeline holds most of the Gordon Group''s shares now. She''s the top shareholder, and I even


    have to follow her lead."


    Julia could not believe it. Even if Trey had been out of it and given some shares to Evangeline, it could not be that much. Could he truly have intended to give the Gordon Group to an outsider? No rational person would make such a move, but to her dismay, Walter''s family had.


    "Walt, remember how we grew up together? You even gave me a bamboo dragonfly when we were kids. Have you really forgotten all that?" Julia reminisced, hoping to stir some fondness in Walter. He had always been protective of her, just like a brother.


    Back in their school days, after Evangeline had been sent away, Julia and Walter continued their education at the same institution for a few more years. Walter and Evangeline, who were ssmates, had a close bond. Julia was a year behind and always seemed to be trailing behind them like a little puppy.


    She was quick to tears and even quicker to snitch, and though they did not really enjoy herpany, she never seemed to catch on.


    "A bamboo dragonfly?" Evangeline''s brow furrowed as she turned to Walter, recalling that she too had once given him such a toy.


    15 BOR


    Walter quickly rified, "That wasn''t a gift from me. You found it at my ce when you visited, and my mom let you y with it. You decided to keep it."


    Evangeline, then somewhat appeased, sat back and observed them with the stern gaze of a judge.


    Julia, her cheeks flushed with frustration, had learned to toughen up under Lydia''s


    tutge, her skin then thicker than most.


    She pressed on, "Walt, remember when those kids blocked my way and you swooped in like a hero to rescue me? You were like my knight in shining armor. That''s why I''ve always stuck by you." Walter massaged his temples, ncing


    at Evangeline and then at Julia, before clearing his throat and admitting, somewhat sheepishly, "You might be a bit confused. Those kids were shaking me down for protection money, and I was just the ringleader of our little gang. I was calling them over to divvy up the loot, save you."


    The revtion was like a soap opera plot twist that neither Evangeline nor Julia could have anticipated.


    There they were, staring at the man they once put on a pedestal, as their illusions crumbled around them.


    Evangeline felt the urge to smack herself. The man she had once been head over heels for, ready to marry at the drop of a hat, turned out to be a total disaster.


    As Julia opened her mouth to speak again, Evangeline''s patience wore thin. She could not stand another word. Who knew what other embarrassing stories about Walter mighte out next? She could barely look at Julia then.

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    "Cut the sob story. I''m not interested. You can leave my office now. I''ll have someone show you out," said Evangeline, pressing the inte to call the front desk. "I need two security guards to escort Ms. Julia out of the Gordon Group building, please." It was more of a boot than an escort. Julia was seething.


    Evangeline was not done yet. "Oh, and Ms. Julia? Just so you know, your partnership with Gordon Group/s over, including that fancy ''Return of the Princess'' project we were crafting for you. No need toe by the office for work anymore. Don''t thank me- it''s the least I can do."


    Evangeline''s tone was light, but Walter caught the triumphant glint in her eye. He found every side of her utterly captivating.


    The violin prodigy who had once been the center of attention was then unceremoniously ousted from the building. There had been whispers that Julia might end up as the future Mrs. Gordon, and everyone had been so weing each time she visited. However, the real d had arrived, and Julia was tossed out like she was the other woman, her pride in tatters.


    How could she let that slide? She jumped into a cab, tears streaming down her face, and headed back to the apartment Walter had set up for them.


    Andrew and Lydia''s argument about the house was reaching a fever pitch. Lydia wasmbasting him, demanding to know why they had not secured the house when Evangeline''s


    mother passed away, leaving them without a roof over their heads. Her words were sharp and unforgiving.


    Andrew, ever the pushover, could not muster a word in his defense. He was the type who seemed to attract trouble, and Lydia was his personal brand of retribution.


    He had had a soft spot for Yessica, the sweet and kind-hearted woman. Her death had hit him hard, and he had kicked himself for not resisting the temptations that came his way. Back then, he had clung to ast bit of decency, never considering iming the house for himself.


    Then, with the weight of years heavy on his shoulders, all he had left was regret. He wished the mother and daughter had both been spared the trouble they had caused.


    Lydia''s heart ached when she saw Juliae home crying. She listened intently as Julia recounted the day''s drama at the Gordon Group building, and Lydia''s anger boiled over.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She wrapped an arm around her daughter. "Don''t cry, sweetheart. I won''t let them get away with this. I haven''t yed my trump card yet. Just wait and see how that lowlife will fare then."


    "What trump card?" Julia looked up, a spark of revenge flickering in her eyes.


    Meanwhile, in the office, Walter observed Evangeline as she appeared deeply engrossed in the


    documents on her desk.


    "Did you enjoy your little game today?" he asked, his voice low.


    Evangeline gave her chair a twirl, her long legs elegantly crossed. "Not bad. ying the role of a major shareholder in the Gordon Group has its perks."


    "Now it''s my turn," said Walter, leaning in close, his gaze intense with a predatory hunger. Evangeline


    Dhapter ET


    could not help but lean away from him.


    "What are you doing? Evangeline''s words tumbled out in a nervous jumble. She had not braced herself for this today


    "You just called me hubby, didn''t you? If you''re my wife, what do you thinkes next?" Walter teased, his face inching closer, his breath a hot caress that sent her heart racing. The sudden buzz of her phone cut through the moment. It was Andrew calling.

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    Both Evangeline and Walter eyed the insistent phone. With a nudge, she urged Walter to give her some


    space.


    Realizing she had something urgent to attend to, Walter backed off with a resigned sigh and started scrolling through his phone.


    He was frustrated to no end. Why did every perfect moment between them have to be interrupted? Was fate really against him and Evangeline being together?


    Evangeline, oblivious to Walter''s inner turmoil, could not help but think that her estranged father, Andrew, had unwittingly done her a favor that time.


    "What''s up?" she snapped as she answered the call disdainfully.


    "You bettere over tonight! Meet me at Crystal Waters Apartment," Andrew barked back, even less politely.


    Evangeline pulled the phone away from her ear, saving herself from his grating, loud voice.


    "Ha, as if 111 jump just because you say so. Who do you think you are? You think you''re something special just because you''re my dad?" Sheshed out, unafraid. With her grandfather''s support, she was far from the shivering, lonely little girl she once was in the cold wint "You backstabber. You''ve got the nerve to bad-mouth your own dad? Aren''t you scared of getting zapped by a bolt from the blue?" Andrew was all fired up when he heard Evangeline''s words.


    "Hal Struck by lightning? You''ve done plenty of vile stuff without batting an eye, so what''s there for me to fear? If lightning is going to hit anyone, it should be you first, you heartless, greedy snake!This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    f your


    "Got anything else to say? If you''re not six feet under, don''t bother calling me. Just the sound of voice is enough to make my skin crawll" Evangeline spat out her words without pausing for air. Walter, standing off to the side, silently gave Evangeline a thumbs- up. She was a real warrior, bold enough tosh out at her own father like that.


    Thinking about it, the way Evangeline had chewed him out before seemed pretty tame inparison, did she not?


    He did not give a hoot about how Evangeline treated her father. Walter knew bits and pieces about the family drama-


    how Evangeline''s mom passed away when she was little, and Andrew married Lydia. From that point on, he never saw Evangeline in clothes that fit right, and even in the dead of winter, she would be in a flimsy dress and flip-flops, her hands and feet chapped and raw. Back then, Trey kept a tight leash on his wallet, so Walter and some buddies shook down other kids for protection money'' to buy Evangeline a proper winter coat. However, the very next day, that coat was warming Julia instead.


    After that, Evangeline vanished. When he pressed Julia, she said Evangeline had gone off to a rural area with her grandfather.


    Walter did not know the whole story, but the bits he saw were enough to tell him Andrew was no ''Father of the Year". If Evangeline had not been scooped up by her grandfather, she might have ended up a


    popsicle in that blizzardy winter.


    "Evangeline, do you really believe I killed your mother?" Andrew''s voice thundered through the phone.


    "What else am I supposed to think? If you hadn''t cheated with Lydia while my mom was pregnant, would she have been driven to such despair that she took her own life as well as her unborn child''s?" Every time Evangeline thought about it, she seethed with a rage so deep she wanted to tear Andrew and Lydia apart.


    4 me van jou


    po


    wending zur gengi


    was your mother, the one who couldn''t Keep Ther lege closed even with a tally the way She was the he caught in the set and the offer herself out than the bathy? we know with the father was you think you''ve got any night to scream at mw? You''re just me low as the we


    hut your mouth Andrew My mother''s biggest misfortune was crossing paths with a lowife like you You''re going to get what''sing to you and if the universe doesn''t strike you down, make sure you


    pay


    Then argument escted quickly the heated words crackling through the phone line like electricity,


    I''m


    Listen up. Tvangeline, rm onto all the dramately if you don''t leave Waiter and clear your cter''s name, t''i spill every dirty secret your mother ever had And your dear grandfather? if you so much as think about crossing me I'' snuff him out Hes just a simple farmer- taking him out would be as easy as stepping on an ant." Andrew''s threat was icy and calcted


    "Fine, fine, fine" spat Evangeline furiously. Andrew had no idea who he was dealing with. He did not the first thing about her grandfather''s true stature, yet he dared to threaten his life. Little did he know


    a word from her grandfather, Andrew''s days could be numbered


    "Andrew, wait for me," Evangeline snapped before abruptly ending the call


    Walter watched as Evangeline hastily gathered her things, ready to storm out. He rose to follow her


    "What are you doing trailing me?" she spun, her eyes shing. "Change your mind? Want your shares back?


    Tm just looking for some excitement" said Walter with a grin, though his concern for her was clear-he did not like the idea of her facing trouble alone


    "Mind your own business and stay out of our family matters," snapped Evangeline, giving hum no quarter


    "Hey, I''m still your ex and part of the Rearden family. That makes me at least half-involved," he retorted.


    Forget about it. Don''t think I''ve dropped the divorce issue. I''m warning you, stop following me, or I''ll have mywyer p you with another subpoena tonight," she threatened, pointing sternly at his feet


    Walter knew when he was beaten. Threats always got to him, and he had no desire to escte things with Evangeline. He stopped in his tracks


    "Alright if you need anything, just call. I''ll be here," he offered.


    Evangeline ignored him, mming the door behind her as she left in a whirlwind.


    The idea of dragging Walter along wasughable if heid eyes on Julia, he would be rooted to the spot, love-struck Sure, the shares kept him in line for then, but there was no telling if he would be lured away by a pretty face into doing something utterly foolish. She jumped into Walters sleek sports car, which was still parked at thepany, and sped off toward Crystal Waters Apartment. She was determined to uncover whatever mischief that tho was up to


    She made the hour-long drive in a mere 40 minutes. Evangeline breezed through the front door with her own key, finding Andrew and his crew mid-discussion about their personal drama in the living room. She

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    could not help but chuckle as she sauntered over to the couch and took a seat.


    "Didn''t you want to chat about something? Well, I''m all ears. If you''ve got something to say, out with it," she said, eyeing them lik


    word from her grandfather, Andrew''s days could be numbered


    "Andrew, wait for me," Evangeline snapped before abruptly ending the call


    Walter watched as Evangeline hastily gathered her things, ready to storm out. He rose to follow her


    "What are you doing trailing me?" she spun, her eyes shing. "Change your mind? Want your shares back?


    Tm just looking for some excitement" said Walter with a grin, though his concern for her was clear-he did not like the idea of her facing trouble alone


    "Mind your own business and stay out of our family matters," snapped Evangeline, giving hum no quarter


    "Hey, I''m still your ex and part of the Rearden family. That makes me at least half-involved," he retorted.


    Forget about it. Don''t think I''ve dropped the divorce issue. I''m warning you, stop following me, or I''ll have mywyer p you with another subpoena tonight," she threatened, pointing sternly at his feet


    Walter knew when he was beaten. Threats always got to him, and he had no desire to escte things with Evangeline. He stopped in his tracks


    "Alright if you need anything, just call. I''ll be here," he offered.


    Evangeline ignored him, mming the door behind her as she left in a whirlwind.


    The idea of dragging Walter along wasughable if heid eyes on Julia, he would be rooted to the spot, love-struck Sure, the shares kept him in line for then, but there was no telling if he would be lured away by a pretty face into doing something utterly foolish. She jumped into Walters sleek sports car, which was still parked at thepany, and sped off toward Crystal Waters Apartment. She was determined to uncover whatever mischief that tho was up to


    She made the hour-long drive in a mere 40 minutes. Evangeline breezed through the front door with her own key, finding Andrew and his crew mid-discussion about their personal drama in the living room. She Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    could not help but chuckle as she sauntered over to the couch and took a seat.


    "Didn''t you want to chat about something? Well, I''m all ears. If you''ve got something to say, out with it," she said, eyeing them like they were yesterday''s garbage, her gaze dripping with irony and distaste.


    e they w

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    Chapter 84


    Andrew and pose were gobemacked, not expect


    Evangelise to show so quickly


    How the heck do you have keys to our ce you with Em going to drag you to court for breaking Lydia''s eyes bulged, proud to show off the legal jargon he had picked up while fussing over the house situation


    Oh, please, sue away." Evangeline drawled, unfazed.


    This ce is Walter''s and guess who helped him snag it? Yours truly. Walter and I are hitched, which makes this little abode our shared asset. So tell me. did Walter hand over the keys to you? is there a deed transfer I don''t know about?"


    "What deed transfer? Walter already told us the ce is ours, Lydia shot back, her eyes nearly popping


    out of her head.


    Sure, Walter had promised the apartment to Julia and the others, but there was not a scrap of paper to show for t


    "Got it, so the trespassers are you guys." Evangeline quipped, her lips curling into a sly grin thinking that the tro must have a few screws loose.


    "Evangeline, Julia spilled the beans about you snagging those Gordon Group shares. No point in ying coy now. Tve raised you, and we''re your parents, no matter what it''s downright disrespectful to turn your back on us like this. However, your sister talked some sense in Evangeline raised an eyebrow. "Are you even hearing yourself?"


    "And that''s not all. Your mother Lydia, your sister, and I will go back to treating you just like we always You''re our daughter, after all. However, in return, you''ve got to fork over fifty percent of those shares to your mom and me, then split another twenty- five percent with your sister Julia. That''s only fair." Andrew settled into his chair, his voice oozing sincerity, the picture of a doting father


    "Exactly, Evangeline. Your dad''s right. y ball, and we''ll all get along just fine!


    Julia, surprisingly, kept her mouth shut that time Evangeline watched the tag-team act of Andrew and Lydia and could not suppress a chuckle "Have you all lost your minds? Maybe I should do the charitable thing and check you into a psych ward: I''ll foot the bill- consider it a down payment on washing my hands of this dirty bloodline"Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Evangeline, don''t snub the friendly drink, or you''ll be forced to down the bitter one Andrew bellowed, his patience wearing thin with Evangeline''s sass


    "I never had any intention of joining this farce, but I can''t help butugh!" said Evangeline, propping herself up on the couch, herughter so intense she struggled to breathe "You expect to keep treating


    me like the good old days? What''s next, feeding me rotten scraps, making me sleep in a junk-filled room, forcing me to wash clothes in freezing water during winter, and then weing me back with a beating?"


    Evangeline''s eyes shed fiercely "Snap out of it. I''m not the same helpless kid you used to push around. Now, it''s my turn to demand justice!"


    "Don''t get


    too smug, Evangeline. You must''ve forgotten the proof of your mother''s affair. If I expose this, I''d love to see you try to show your face in public," Julia sneered, tossing a stack of photos onto the coffee table, confident she had the upper hand. "Feast your eyes on these, the


    mother. With this kind of scandal, the Gordons would never ept someone like you!


    "You''re nothing but a backwoods wildflower. What makes you think you canpete with my Julia? She''s the one fit to be the Gordons'' daughter-inw!" Lydia spat out.


    Evangeline picked up the photos, the so-called evidence. They were just pictures of her mother in a warm embrace with her uncle, sharing augh, her belly swollen with the child. Chapter 215

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    It looked like her uncle Yale had once secretly visited her mother, and someone had captured the moment. Who could it be?


    Her eyes turned to Lydia. She was the one who had used those photos to sabotage the rtionship between Andrew and her mother, was she not?R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Evangeline''sugh echoed through the room, her usually graceful face taking on a chilling twist. She rose to her feet, pping slowly, "Bravo, quite the performance. Mr. James Foster, would you join us?"


    The door, slightly open, swung wider as James entered at her beckoning. His suit was sharp, his gold- rimmed sses catching the light, every inch the consummate professional.


    "Evangeline, what''s this all about?"


    The smirks on the faces of the others faded fast with James'' arrival. Something was off.


    "Oh, nothing much. Just thought you''d all like to know that our little chat today was recorded. And Andrew, that bit about you threatening to track down my grandfather and using his life as leverage? We got that on tape, too, Mr. James Foster here has all the evidence now."


    "Evangeline, you... You!" Andrew''s eyes bulged, words failing him. He had not touched her grandfather, but with this ''evidence'', he would be the prime suspect if anything happened.


    Lydia, seeing Andrew''s distress, rushed to his side, her hands soothing his chest.


    Julia stepped forward, blocking Lydia and Andrew, saying contemptuously, "Evangeline, you''ve sunk to new lows, seducing some thug toe after us. Mr. James Foster? More like your secret fling! You''d stoop to anything to get what you want. How despicable. Does Wal "Scared? When have you ever seen me scared? You keep calling me a thug. Didn''t Andrew and Lydia teach you any better? Oh, but how could I expect anything about manners from your trio? Birds of a feather, aren''t you?" Evangeline''s voice dripped with sarcasm as she i''t get


    "I''m going to spill the beans to Walter about you and your ''wild man. Just wait, the two of you won''t away with this."


    James'' gaze was icy as he surveyed the family, repulsed. He was a true gentleman, unustomed to such vulgar talk. He could not believe that Julia, once hailed as a violin princess, marketed as the epitome of beauty and kindness, was such a fraud. The Inte''s portra Then there were Andrew and Lydia, that odd couple, causing a ruckus. Being around them felt like wading knee-deep in a swamp of filth.


    However, what really struck him was that Evangeline had endured theirpany for so long. He could not fathom how she survived her childhood without picking up their foul stench.


    James gave Evangeline''s back a reassuring pat. She had clearly been through a lot with that family, and he resolved to be even more supportive of his niece from then on


    Evangeline caught the concern in James'' actions and knew he pitied her. However, it was he who was the target of their insults, and she would not stand for her grandfather and uncle being dragged through the


    mud


    Rising to her feet, she remarked calmly, detached, "Insult me all you want, but if you dare to go after my grandfather and uncle again, you''ll wish you hadn''t"


    "What uncle?" Julia blurted out, taken aback. Things were not adding up as she had expected.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 86

    Chapter 86


    James watched as Evangeline dropped the pretense and decided heuld do the same "Alright, I''lly it out for you. The name''s Foster, as in from the northern Foster Group empire. Evangeline is my niece. "Keep stirring the pot, and I won''t hesitate to have you ving away at a sewing machine for the next few decades. And if you fancy a more special kind of hardship, say, missing a limb or two? I''m your guy His tone was steady, a stark contrast to Evangeline''s fiery demeanor, but the threat in his words was crystal clear. He might y the part of a gentleman, but make no mistake-there was not a single delicate flower among the gambling king''s kin. They yed nice with him, he would y nice with them. The Foster family did not take kindly to enemies that crossed them, crossed him. The only ones still standing were the Gordons, and that was saying something


    Even the most sheltered of folks knew better than to mess with the Gordons of the South or the Fosters


    of the North-untouchable titans, both of them.


    However, Evangeline, a Foster? That was news.


    Andrew was floored. His wife, Yessica, was a Foster? She was just a sweet, gullible college girl when they met. No hint of a powerhouse lineage.


    He gaped at James, his voice barely above a whisper, "You mean, Cole''s Foster Group? The gambling king?"


    James gave him a withering look. "What, you got any other Foster in mind?" He could not help but wonder how his sister ever fell for such a loser.


    Looking back, it was clear that Yessica had been sheltered too much by her family. They had kept her so safe and sound that she never learned to watch out for the darker sides of people. The Fosters were a family of many sons, and Yessica, their only daughter, was the a They pampered her and shielded her from any scrapes and bruises of the world. That was exactly why she did not see iting when Andrew swept her off her feet with his charming lies.Belongs to ? n0velDrama.Org.


    "No way. Yessica''s just a regr girl, she told me herself," Andrew muttered, his voiceced with disbelief. The thought that Yessica might actually be a Foster was too much for him. If the Fosters found out


    what he had done to her and Evangeline, they would not let him off easy. The mere thought sent


    shivers down his spine.


    "Ha! You must be dreaming, Evangeline! You think you can rub shoulders with the Fosters? And James, don''t kid yourself into thinking you''re one of them just because you share theirst name. Aren''t you scared they''lle after you?" Julia sneered from the sidelines. "Absolutely, it''s like you''re living in a fantasy. You, your mom, and your granddad-how could a bunch of hicks like you ever be part of the elite northern Foster Group? It''sughable.


    "Take a good, hard look at yourselves-dripping with that down-home vibe and dreaming of high society. You''re not even worthy of being the Fosters'' doormat!" Lydia added, her voice dripping with .


    To them, it was the punchline of a bad joke. The local yokels they usually sneered at had, out of nowhere, turned into high-and-mighty hotshots. It was like a scene ripped straight from a soap opera. Chapter 86


    Evangeline chuckled. "I just got a kick out of that deer-in-the-headlights look you all have. But hey, I''m feeling generous today. You''ve treated me to quite the spectacle, so I guess it''s only fair I return the favor. She whipped out her cell and dialed up her grandfather''s right-hand man, Asher, and switched to speakerphone.


    "Miss, what can I do for you?" Asher''s voice crackled through, a mix of surprise and urgency cutting his meeting short to answer Evangeline''s call.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 87

    Chapter 87


    The voice on the other end was nothing but deferential


    "Hat You Hittle Tramp roping in some stooge to y along with your little art What''s the going rate for that These days? Or did you just scrape up some sleazy golo to fill in mocked Lydia venomously


    Asher face went stone cold on the other end. Someone insulted the Foster Groups princess? That was a one-way ticket to trouble


    Mies, did you run into some kind of mess over there? Need me toe over with backup? Asher was all


    business


    "No need for the cavalry, but there is something else you could help me with replied Evangeline calmly


    Asher braced himself for what might be aplicated request, but he was ready. "Miss, justy it on me. Even if it''s Foster Group business, I''m on it


    No, that''s not it. Remember how I axed that endorsement deal for the newbie, Julia, with ourpany? Ive heard that Gordon Group went behind my back and set her up with Brighton Media. Give them a ring and let them know I just don''t vibe with Julia Tell them to drop t "And while you''re at it, see if she''s got any other media gigs and nix those too. Oh, and my dad? The guy''s not even retired yet, but he''s already cashing in on his perision, living the high life. Have someone dig into that, will you?"This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t sweat it. It''s no biggie, miss I''ll get it sorted out in no time," Asher replied, relieved it was not something more serious that had him all worked up for nothing


    Evangeline''s face rxed as she ended the call


    Julia sneered, "Wow, you''re quite the actress, even phoning up Brighton Media. You do realize they''re owned by Gordon Group, right? Who do you think you are, trying to screw up my job?"


    "And you think you can just reach out to mypany? Do you even know who''s in charge there? You''re such a disappointment, always talking big" said Andrew, not buying a word of it


    James wiped down the table''s edge with a wet wipe, leaned back, and started fiddling with his phone With Evangeline having called Asher, he did not have to worry.


    No sooner had Julia finished her taunt than Brighton Media rang her up to cancel their coboration. On top of that, a home textilepany that had once courted her for endorsements also cut ties, all within few minutes


    She gazed at the text on her phone, rooted to the spot, whispering to herself repeatedly. "This can''t be happening, it just can''t


    Then there was Andrew, who not only got the boot from his job but was also being strong-armed into paying back the retirement dough he had over collected for years. If he did not cough it up, they would drag him into court Panic painted his face a sickly shade of purple Lydia, lounging at home with nothing to do, was clueless about the whole mess, However, one look at


    Julia and Andrew''s troubled faces, and she sniffed out trouble.


    Maybe Evangeline was onto something Lydia remembered that time when Evangeline showed up with a


    posse of bodyguards dressed in ck to kick someone out. She had thought it was all for show, but thinking back about it, that was quite the spectacle.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 88

    Chapter BB


    "Evangeline, na hear me out, my girl 1 loved your mom for real. If she hadn''t fallen for some guy and gotten knocked up nning to run away with him, I neger would''ve left her


    "And it was Lydian She was the one who lured me in She even snapped those photos of your mother with that guy I''ve been true to you and your mother, you have to believe me." Andrew''s legs were unsteady, and he was almost about to copse. The repulsed Evangeline stepped back while Lydia lunged at Andrew, wing and smacking him. "You''re pinning this on me, you jerk? You were the one who couldn''t wait to jump into my bed! I''ll knock the betrayal night out of you!" Zip it if you hadn''t stirred the pot, I never would''ve shed with Yessical You''re nothing but trouble!"


    The argument escted into a full-blown brawl, hair pulling and face-pping, while Evangeline backed away, not wanting to get caught in their crossfire


    Julia was at her wit''s end, hurling usations at Evangeline. "Are you satisfied now, Evangeline? You''ve snagged the Gordon Group''s shares and turned my house into aplete disaster. When ites down to it, you''re just a vile gold- digger. Who are you to judge me?"


    Evangeline let out a frigidugh "You''ve got it all wrong. Walter''s money? I couldn''t care less. I''m


    swimming in cash. You''re the one who''s obsessed with him, treating him like he''s some kind of prize. As the heir to Foster Group, I could have any man I want.


    "As for the rest, mywyer will take care of it. And the suffering my mother endured at the hands of your family? I''ll make sure you pay back every ounce of it, and then some. So sit back and enjoy the payback."


    She stood up, a deceptive smile ying on her lips, but her eyes were icy daggers. This was just the beginning of her revenge.


    As she flung the door open, she locked eyes with Walter. He stood there in his sleek camel coat, his expression unreadable, having arrived some time ago.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Why else would Walter be there if not for Julia, the one he could not stop thinking about? He knew negotiations were happening with the Rearden family, so of course he woulde to stand by Julia''s side


    A sharp pang of pain hit Evangeline''s heart, and she despised her weakness.


    She knew she was nothing more than an afterthought to Walter, while Julia was his everything. Yet, there she was, her heart aching for the man who had caused her so much pain


    Evangeline, you''re a Foster, for heaven''s sake. Get a grip! she scolded herself silently.


    Evangeline''s gaze snapped up, locking eyes with Walter''s deep-set stare. A chillingugh escaped her lips, unmasked and frosty. "Caught every word, did you? Good. Saves me the trouble of repeating myself."


    Walter was a statue by the doorway, his eyes that once cut like a judge from the underworld then dulled, his brow stormy, his face a mask of displeasure. He had had his suspicions about Evangeline''s true identity, but facing the truth head-on was a bitter pill to swallow. Staring down the haughty Evangeline, Walter''s heart twisted in pain-a sensation alien to him. She had


    broadcasted her secret to the world yet left him in the dark!


    He was like a jester, skulking behind doors to catch wind of such crucial information.


    Anger red, his eyes taking on a predatory crimson.


    "Anything else you want to get off your chest, Evangeline? Like the identity you have been hiding for ages!


    "Walter, you''re a piece of work. We''re on the brink of divorce. What''s left to say?" Evangeline''seback was sharp, her urge tough growing as she faced Walter''s misery.


    His return had caught her off guard, but any surprise was drowned out by her disdain for his misced fury


    She knew his game all too well-defending his precious Julia. However, she was past caring at this point.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 89

    Chapter 89


    Whatever Walter had nned for Julia''s sake, Evangeline''s resolve to retaliate against Julia''s family was firm, unchangeable.R��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "I''ll see you in court, Walter Evangeline''s voice echoed, each syble of his name a sharp note before she stormed out, mming the door behind her.


    Julia''s heart clenched at the sight of Walter''s troubled face. This could be a disaster! Had Walter overheard her calling Evangeline those awful names? She had to fix that, even if he had heard.


    Desperate, Julia wiped her tears and rushed to Walter, grabbing his arm with a dramatic ir. "Walt, please tell me you didn''t hear the horrible things she said. She''s so heartless, not satisfied with kicking us out of the old house. She wants to take back this new ce you''ve "I might be young enough to handle living on the streets, but our parents? They''re too old for this kind of suffering. She''s being so cruel..." Her voice trembled, her eyshes glistening with tears, invoking sympathy.


    However, Walter was too caught up in his own conflicted feelings to care for Julia''s theatrics, her incessant babbling grating on his nerves.


    Just as he was about to pull away from her grip, James appeared, his stride deliberate. His eyes quickly took in the scene, pausing on Julia''s hold on Walter''s arm, and a sh of icy anger passed through them. He had always suspected Walter was not treating Evangeline right, but this was beyond the pale.


    Bullying the Foster family''s darling? There would be consequences. James fought to keep his fury under


    wraps.


    As an actingwyer, maintaining an objective and cool-headed approach to problems was a code of conduct he could not break


    "Perfect timing, Mr. Walter Gordon. Ms. Evangeline had said that this house is marital property, and you didn''t get her consent to let others live here. She wants them out, now!"


    James, worried sick about Evangeline, dropped a bomb and bolted.


    Walter, though... He had time on his side. They would just have to wait and see.


    Once the crowd had cleared, Andrew and Lydia made a beeline for Walter.


    "How utterly humiliating! How did I end up with a daughter like Evangeline who shirks her duties? Walter, you two need to split, fast. Otherwise, I can''t show my face at the Gordons'' ever again, Andrew fumed.


    Lydia wiped away a tear. "Truth be told, we''re okay. It''s Julia I''m worried about. She''s been coddled all her life, and she''s not cut out for this kind of hardship. Evie''s really crossed the line this time!"


    Julia clung to Walter''s arm, her voice trembling. "Walt, you''ve got to help us....


    She was cut off as Walter pulled away.


    Julia, I''ve done everything I could for you. I can''t do anything more," he said sternly.


    Julia''s eyes widened in shock.


    "What if I beg you?" she pleaded, tears streaming down her face. "Walt, you promised to always be there for me. Have you forgotten all your promises?"


    Julia felt her world crumbling. She had believed Walter would be her savior.


    Evangeline, that venomous woman, had canceled her endorsement deal with Foster Group. However, Walter, without missing a beat, showered her with even better opportunities. When Evangeline tossed her out on the street, it was Walter who handed her the keys to a new home, telling her to bring her parents and move right in.


    She had believed she meant something to Walter.


    However, what about then? Was he really trying to cut her out of his life?


    All she got from Walter was a distant, detached look.


    "Julia, do you even grasp the concept of doing right by someone? You''re well aware of the reasons behind my kindness," he said.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 90

    Chapter on Chapter


    90


    Julia was not the only one silenced by his words. Andrew and Lydia, who had been loudly urging Walter to leave Evangeline and be good to Ju, froze in shock.


    Walter had never paid them any mind, and he certainly was not about to start showing them any courtesy.


    "I heard every word you two said. I''m going to dig up every dirty deed you''ve done to Evangeline. And let me make this crystal clear: If she sheds one tear because of you, you''ll pay back tenfold, in blood!" Walter stormed out, not even sure how he managed to leave.


    Ditching his bodyguards, he found himself in a bar, knocking back brandy after brandy. All he could see was Evangeline''s gaunt face, feigning strength.


    What had he done to her? Why did he not ask more questions and try to understand her suffering?


    Reflecting on his treatment of Evangeline since their marriage, he was filled with such self-loathing that he could barely stand it.


    With a final burst of anger, Walter stormed off, his bitter words echoing behind him.


    Andrew and his family slumped onto the couch, utterly drained by the confrontation that had just unfolded


    "We''ve really done it now, haven''t we? We''re at war with Walter, and he''s siding with that tramp Evangeline! What are we going to do?" Lydia''s face was ashen as she clutched at Andrew''s arm, shaking him desperately. "Andrew, for heaven''s sake, do something! You''ve got to have some kind of n!"


    Andrew had been paralyzed with fear from the start, and Lydia''s demands were thest thing he needed.


    In a burst of anger, he shook off her grip and snapped, "So now you want my advice? This mess is your doing! Sure, Julia is too young to know how to keep a man interested, but you''re her mother, Shouldn''t you have taught her something? And now, thanks to you, Walte A sudden thought struck Andrew, and he smacked his leg with realization.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ''The Fosters... We''re dealing with the Fosters! The notorious family that''s a household name from Gord in the South to Foster in the North!" Crossing Walter was bad enough, but the real fear was the Foster family''s wrath.


    With their shady connections, the Fosters could dig up dirt on anyone. If they uncovered the Andrews'' past deeds, would they stand a chance?


    Andrew''s decision was swift and firm. "Enough with the tears and drama. If you want to stay alive, pack your bags. We need to get out of here, now!"


    The moment they swung the door open, their armsden with packages, the sight of the ck-suited bodyguards waiting outside sent a jolt of fear through them.


    Those bodyguards were Evangeline''s muscles!


    Andrew mped a hand over his mouth and stumbled back to the couch, his body shaking like a leaf. "Evangeline''s really done it this time-


    she''s blocked ourst way out! We''re toast, just sitting ducks!" Beside him, Lydia was a mess, tears streaming down her face, sobbing uncontrobly.


    Julia was teetering on the edge of a breakdown.


    First, that witch Evangeline had shamed her. Then, her rtionship with Walter had shattered. As if that was not bad enough, she was in the crosshairs of the Foster family''s goons. However, she could not give up-not yet.


    Julia had not imed what she was owed, had not toppled that witch Evangeline. She could not just roll over and die.


    A spark of defiance ignited in Julia''s eyes. Snatching up her phone, she dialed a number with determination...


    away her


    ''Walter, do you really think Evangeline''s an angel? Just you wait-I''ll strip mask, and then you''ll see that I''m the only one who truly loves you!''

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 91

    GET IT NOW


    With a triumphant smirk, Julia slipped by the watchful eyes of the bodyguards and tiptoed out the back door.


    Evangeline settled into her private booth at Kronovia Royale Pub, surrounded by sses of Bloody Mary. The Fosters were gambling royalty, their power unchallenged.


    Evangeline, a true Foster by blood, had always been drawn to the color of blood.


    7


    Staring into the deep red of her drink, her favorite, Evangeline could not shake the image of Walter from


    her mind.


    Evangeline! You''re the Foster family''s treasured princess, the apple of everyone''s eye, raised with love and care by your doting grandfather and uncles-not to be mistreated!


    What''s a guy like Walter even worth? To think he drove you to drink your sorrows away and torment yourself. Does he deserve that power over you? Absolutely not! ran her thoughts. ��vangeline''s heart screamed the answer, but her hand betrayed her, lifting the ss and emptying it in one defiant swig.


    Walter was, after all, a man she had once loved. On this night, she would let herself go wild, just this once.


    Right then, a knock echoed at the private room''s door.


    The bodyguard, always close by, stepped in with Evangeline''s nod.


    "Miss, should we hide tonight''s affair from Mr. Cole Foster?"


    The thought of her sick grandfather, lying in bed back home, cast a shadow over Evangeline''s gaze. Cole was still dreaming of holding a great-grandson from her and Walter.


    However, she was already on the brink of divorce. How could her dear grandfather endure such news?


    "Keep it under wraps for now. I''ll find the right moment to exin everything to him myself," she decided.


    With a wave of her hand, the bodyguard withdrew, gently closing the door behind him.


    Evangeline was left alone in the spacious room, surrounded by a sea of Bloody Marys. She came to her own bar to drown her sorrows in peace.


    However, before she could truly lose herself, there was one more call she had to make.


    She pulled out her phone and dialed James'' number.


    "Uncle, please remind Walter to pick up his divorce papers from the County Clerk''s Office tomorrow. And about that Foster family''s sapphire ne auction, Walter didn''t really drop one hundred thirty-five million on it, did he? Make sure he gets his money back." The Fosters were loaded, their business empire so vast that a few million was just a drop in the bucket


    for them.


    16


    However, she was done with Walter. She wants to cut him out of her life for good, never toy eyes on him again.


    James had never been a fan of Walter, and Evangeline''s decision brought him both relief and a pang of


    sorrow.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Their darling girl should have had an easy time finding a decent guy to live out a fairy-tale life. Instead, she got stuck with a jerk like Walter.


    Over at the Gordon family''s old house, the buzz about Walter and Aria''s spat did not take long to reach Trey.


    He thought about Aria''s pr opposite treatment of Evangeline and her sister Julia, and he let out a weary sigh.


    Mother-inw drama was as old as time, and if Aria kept up her meddling, Walter and Evangeline''s marriage was doomed.


    That settled it for Trey.


    He had promised to keep Evangeline''s secret, but for the sake of her happiness with Walter, he was ready to deal with her pesky mother-inw. ''Get Mdm. Gordon in here, now!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 92

    Chapter 92


    The servant nodded and hurried off


    Aria had been convinced that Walter was just fiercely protective of Evangeline, but when Trey''s unexpected message reached her, her heart lurched.


    She was never Trey''s favorite, and him seeking her out could only mean trouble. Even so, Trey''s word wasw in the Gordons'' world, and she could not just ignore his summons.


    With her heart pounding. Aria made her way to Trey''s study and asked with a shaky voice, "Dad, you wanted to see me?"


    Trey waved the servant away, and once they were alone, he finally spoke up, "I brought you here to tell you something.


    "You''re aware of Cole from the Foster family, aren''t you? Evangeline is his granddaughter."


    Those words hit Aria like a ton of bricks.


    "Are you kidding. Dad? If she''s his granddaughter, doesn''t that make Evangeline the Foster family''s heiress?


    "Why would I lie to you? I''m telling you now that Evangeline is leagues above Julia, the perfect match I''ve handpicked for my grandson. And remember, for the Gordons, I will only ever have eyes for Evangeline. "That Julia you like so much? She''s not fit to even carry Evangeline''s shoes!"


    Stunned, Aria pped a hand over her mouth and stumbled back to her room, tears streaming down her face, filled with remorse.


    If only she had known Evangeline was the Foster family''s prized daughter, she would never have dismissed her. She should have cherished her all this time.


    Meanwhile, at the bar, Walter was drowning his sorrows, one drink at a time.


    Walter had drained most of the bottle of red wine, but instead of feeling tipsy, his thoughts were sharper than ever. Evangeline''s face haunted him: Her childhood smiles, her grown-up frowns, her shes of anger, and moments of hurt.


    The more he dwelled on it, the more he despised himself for not cherishing the good times and for neglecting her feelings sopletely.


    Out of the blue, his phone buzzed. It was James on the line. "Mr. Walter Gordon, sorry to bother you. Evangeline has decided to finalize the divorce tomorrow. Please be on time at the County Clerk''s Office. Let''s not repeatst time''s dys. And about the ne you bo one hundred thirty-five million will hit your ount by morning."


    James'' tone was brusque. Last time they broached the subject of divorce, Walter had ducked out. heading south to dodge the bullet. He swore he would hot run away again.


    James, you''re Evangeline''s uncle, aren''t you?" Walter''s voice was icy, not really seeking an answer. "We''re family. You should be trying to keep us together, not tear us apart. However, deep down, Walter was desperate. The thought of losing Evangeline, of her giving her love to


    someone else, stirred a wild jealousy in him that nearly drove him mad.


    James could not help but snort at Walter''s attempt to quilt-trip him. +25


    BONUSR��Adt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "Walter, Evie is our Foster family''s darling, the one we all adore. You know exactly what''s happened to her since she''s been with you, so let''s not pretend otherwise, okay?


    "As her uncle, all I want is for my niece to live a life filled with peace and joy. Whether you''re part of that joy, well, that''s none of my business!"


    The thought of Evangeline''s suffering made him wish they would get divorced sooner rather thanter. The call ended abruptly. Walter stared into his drink, the whiskey suddenly tasting bitter... What he did not realize was that Evangeline had identally be a hit during Julia''s live-stream, racking up fans and drawing the paparazzi''s attention.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 93

    FS SEDISH SHI FUSHATne was but the boer The TeenHess pterest spillies the beans door


    relent


    In to inte, the mory of Evangeline, the Foster family''s enigmatic daring was the talk of the town


    She had settlessy soene sose''s fance and kicked her own father out Recently outed as a festidious srising figure in the sting scare the had, in a single night, be the Foster family''s Winner family''s dour and a pillion-dor forume she and the Gordon family''s Mr. Water Gordon were see the go & TELE Lost CRUDE


    Evergine cops the deal ther out the Gordon Samily''s shares her grasp effectively giving her the


    ered on the Gordon and Forer fannily fortunes. This was not some diche tale of a cunning women Bongos vesity rer No I was the story of a formidable beauty who, for reasons she kept close Such stulet would be too told even for the wildest of romance noved!


    The celice nero nas uzz and conions tad fesplerely. The consensus was clear. The Gers, spically Me Water Gordon-mate himself-were at the heart of Evangeline''s mysterious Surbing or off the bar well cast midnight Evangeline was a little worse for wear leaning on her wapara se fond stoel to dres in Setadrot excected the admining stares or the fans rushing strangers of reed te dire mind elsewhere


    CarS STARS F the res, the siconol''s burn was a stark reminder. This mess she had


    cores for Water was & ocetime desi, never to be repeated


    Muered the stance, shing a name she had not seen in ages: Alex Gordon. Sobriety hit her live a ssh of cold water, and she bolted upright


    Hento,


    et''sBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    she answered, her voice tinged with surprise He should be asleep at that hour, should be not? Then again, Aler, Walters second brother and her dear friend, had always been full of


    Evangeline had always felt a special connection to Alex He bore an uncanny resemnce to her husband, Walter, which made her feel instantly at ease around him. However, it was not just the looks- Alex''s personality was a breath of fresh airpared to Walter''s, and they quickly became inseparable, sharing every little secret


    She used to call him Alex, but after she tied the knot with Walter, bro became her term of endearment for him. Once mamed, Alex chased his dreams overseas, and their conversations dwindled to nothing. When Evangeline brought up her marital woes, Alex responded with an ease that took her aback. I''m just checking in on you. Heard you and Walter had a spat, is that right?" he asked.


    ww about that?" Evangeline was stunned. Had their private squabble really be international ossip? Alex had never been one to keep tabs on hometown drama, especially after moving away. His were rare and usually just to check on Trey''s health.


    "Yeah, caught wind of it while chatting with Grandpa," Alex admitted, pausing as if a thought had just


    struck him. "Heard a rumor... Are you and Walter splitting up?"


    "Yep. I''m picking up the divorce papers tomorrow," said Evangeline, not shying away from the truth. She knew that as a Gordon, Alex would find out eventually, and she did not believe in hiding things from friends. Before Alex could say more, Evangeline cut in, "Bro, look, if you''re nning to talk me out of this divorce, save your breath."


    Her mind was made up. She was leaving Walter, and that was that.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 94

    Chapter 94


    To her surprise, a soft chuckle came from the other end of the line. Alex''sughter, light and unexpected, echoed through the phone.


    "Why do you think I''m here to talk you into something?"


    There was a hint of challenge in his voice as if he was gently pushing back against Evangeline''s assumption,


    "Don''t they say it''s better to tear down a house than to break up a marriage? You''re like a brother to both me and Walter, so it makes sense you''d call to talk some sense into me, right?" Evangeline paused, taking a deep breath.


    "Bro, I don''t hold a grudge for how things turned out with Walter and me. You''re not here to see it, but we''ve been at each other''s throats..."


    On N


    New Year''s Eve, Walter had set up a fireworks disy for Julia. She had to drag him back home in the dead of night, and even her hints at divorce could not stir his sympathy.


    Afterward, she looked after Julia, who had tried to end it all, giving her a ce to stay and the help she needed


    With every step, Evangeline''s hope in Walter had drained away, leaving her with nothing but disappointment.


    h


    She was pouring her heart out to Alex because he meant the world to her.


    Whenever Walter was harsh, Alex was her refuge, herfort.


    She never had a real brother, but over time, Alex had be just that


    If Alex tried to sway her.... She knew she would be torn.


    "I''m aware of everything." Alex''s sigh was audible over the phone. "The truth is, Evie, I called to say I respect whatever you decide. Even if it means divorcing Walter." "Why?"


    Alex was Walter''s own flesh and blood. They were supposed to be closer.


    "Because... I just want you to be happy."


    Alex''s voice was gentle, a soft breeze over calm waters, sending ripples of emotion through her. The ripples of warmth finally reached Evangeline''s heart.


    At that moment, her heart, wounded and scarred by Walter''s betrayal, began to thaw.


    "I can''t thank you enough, Bro."


    Her voice trembled as tears she did not even know she had anymore began to slide down her cheeks. Evangeline touched the dampness, a silent testament to her gratitude. Her thanks came from deep within.


    Alex''s words reminded her she was more than just a warrior d in armor. She was a woman, vulnerable and real.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Why are you thanking me?"


    Alex stretchedzily, a contented sigh escaping him. "Your birthday''s around the corner. What do you want? Name it, and it''s yours."


    Alex had always been generous with Evangeline. However, thefort he offered was the gift she had needed most, leaving her at a loss for any other desires.


    "Nothing much. Just to be happy, that''s all I want for getting a year older."


    Had Alex not mentioned it, her birthday would have slipped by unnoticed, uncelebrated.


    "Okay, I was half-expecting you to ask me toe home. However, if you''re not keen on that, I guess I''ll stay put!"


    There was a yful lilt to Alex''s voice, tinged with mock disappointment.


    Evangeline smiled, knowing very well he was just trying to cheer her up. "Enough with the jokes. When are you flying back? Once I''m done with the divorce from Walter, I''ll be free. I''lle get you at the airport." The call ended, and anticipation bubbled in Evangeline''s chest.


    It had been ages since Alexst visited, and he was finallying back, just in time for her birthday. How could her heart not leap with joy?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 95

    Chapter 95


    However, as soon as she set the phone down, the doorbell chimed.


    ""Who''s there?"


    Evangeline had splurged on the presidential suite and had one rule: No interruptions. Apparently, that was


    too much to ask.


    Were the hotel staff clueless? What were the bodyguards even there for if not to keep people out?


    "Hello, room service!" came a muffled call from the other side of the door.


    With a frown, Evangeline swung the door open, her patience wearing thin. "I thought I made myself clear. No disturbances, remember?" However, the words hung unfinished in the air as she saw the mischievous grin stered on the face of the unexpected visitor.


    There were no bellhops or maids in sight, just the malicious-looking Roslyn and a bodyguard who looked like he had seen a ghost.


    Roslyn was a vision in red, her tank top and miniskirtbo screaming ''party, her legs encased in sexy ck fiss, towering heels adding to her height, and her face done up in dramatic smoky makeup. She was a nightclub queen through and through. "My apologies for the intrusion, my little princess," Roslyn cooed, bowing theatrically and reaching out to Evangeline. "But a beauty like you shouldn''t be left alone. I simply had to join you, even if it''s a bit forward of me." She could not keep a straight face and let out a snicker.


    led up at this ho


    Evangeline shot her a look. "How on earth did you find me here? And why are you all dolled up instead of sleeping?"


    hour


    Roslyn slung an arm around Evangeline, ushering her back into the room. "Haven''t you heard? Your split from Walter is the talk of the town. I figured you''d be down, so I did a little digging."


    Evangeline''s eyebrow arched. Someone had been snooping into her life. "Care to share your source?"


    She would make sure never to let slip anything to this person again. The sensation of being under surveince was downright awful.


    Roslyn was always upfront about these things, never one to y coy. "Talk about serendipity, the person I asked about is a Foster!"


    Asking the Fosters about their own little princess was sure to yield dead-on results, right?


    Roslyn did not have to say it-Evangeline knew exactly who she had in mind.


    Her uncle James was a man of detail. There was no way he would leave her to fend for herself at a time


    like that.


    "My little princess, the night''s too long to waste away in a bar. Instead... Roslyn gave Evangeline''s delicate shoulder straps a yful tug. "Let''s go live it up a bit!" Where they would go was as clear as day, given Roslyn''s getup.


    Chips


    Evangeline, having downed so much booze, was doing a ster job just keeping her wits about her to chat with RoslynN?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    A whole night out clubbing? She was totally tapped


    However, being blunt about it would be such a letdown Faced with Roslyn''s eager eyes, she could not bring herself to be a spoilsport and scrambled for an excuse "Tim


    Im not dressed for it, and I havent even done my makeup. Maybe some other time? Right then, sleep was the only thing on her mind.


    Too bad Roslyn was dead set on going out


    Hearing her protest, Rosly shot her an 1 knew you''d say that look


    "Don''t you fret about a thing my little princess, I''ve got all covered"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 96

    Chapter 96


    At the soap of Rustyer''s


    Coungeines mesuth twischent un a hat ande


    ety of akancare and makeup, p?R OF


    frangelline that made her band, sind bingo ani mai abrigas ka t? bar in 1


    defiam oing Frangelline. Ten soms amatberig will and makes found herself at Whissay Barai hubu


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    Wales Sue Wattan, van a meatumien an dhe nenica B��n She Taal met vome to the club 10 waul away. The


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    grandeback!


    What Roslyn did not realize was that in the short time since they had walked in, Evangeline had undergone aplete emotional overhaul.


    Tonight was not just about fun. It was about letting loose and living it up.


    Slipping her arm through Roslyn''s, Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with mischief. shing a devilish grin, she suggested, "Why dive straight into dancing? How about we kick things off with a drink?"


    Roslyn was all for it, but the curious nces from the crowd made her second-guess the bar scene. She steered Evangeline toward a more secluded booth instead.


    Evangeline''s gaze drifted over the drink menu,nding on a name that stood out. [TOMORROW] Tomorrow.


    As the night unfolded, Evangeline''s true tomorrow'' was just on the horizon, ready to dawn.


    "Could I have a ''Tomorrow'' cocktail, please?"


    Roslyn stuck to her usual, ordering a Long Ind Iced Tea.


    The server, menu in hand, headed back to the bar, unaware of the sinister gaze tracking his every move.


    Julia had been lurking in the shadows ever since Evangeline and her best friend Roslyn walked in,N?velDrama.Org holds this content.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 97

    Chapter 97


    Only when the server emerged with their drinks did Julia seize her moment, darting in front of him.


    A triumphant glint swept over her as she looked at Evangeline.


    Evangeline, you''re so smug, aren''t you? Well, tonight''s the night you''re going down in mes, Julia thought, a gleeful smirk ying on her lips. Evangeline, settled in her booth, received her cocktail


    It was a stunning shade of bright blue, the ice cubes casting a cool mist. If she leaned in close, the scent of tequ would tease her senses.


    Evangeline''s lips curled into a pleased smile.


    Tomorrow was blue, no? That was exactly the drink she had had in mind


    She took a delicate sip, letting the vors dance on her tongue.


    The liquor was potent, rushing to her head, and Evangeline knew she would be over the edge if she had


    more than half.


    She reined in the urge to gulp it down and, as the dance floor pulsed with a new song, she eagerly pulled Roslyn into the throng


    The beat was infectious, and Roslyn was panting in no time. She then saw Evangeline, her movements quick yet elegant, and she just had to stop and watchN?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    She was not the only one. Soon, everyone around Evangeline had paused, captivated by her dance.


    Evangeline was the life of the dance floor, lost in the rhythm of the thumping beats. Twirling, leaping with a fiery passion, she was a spectacle of grace and strength that drew every eye, leaving the crowd breathless for her next electrifying move. She shone like a fiery sprite in the limelight, a vision of red, dancing as if she was made for that moment


    From the sea of faces, a voice of recognition cut through the noise


    "Can you believe it? Isn''t that our very own queen of the night? ""She''s back!"


    The chant rose from the dance floor, echoing through the club "Queen!"


    "Queen"


    In an instant, darkness swallowed the club, but the beat marched on


    The DJ''s voice crackled through the speakers, "Get ready for Whiskey Barrel Pub''s infamous three-minute ckout! Hit the floor, im your spot, and let loose. You''ve got three minutes to make some magic Let''s set this night on fire!" Evangeline''s heart raced with the music, but the sudden darkness threw her off. The liquor she had


    downed earlier was then a warm buzz in her veins.


    She tried to navigate to the edge of the dance floor, her senses leading the way. Out of nowhere, a strong hand mped onto her arm, pulling her with an irresistible force.


    The world spun as she was yanked into a shadowy corner. Her skin was hot, the wall cold against her back, a rush of sensations that jolted her back to reality.


    However, as her head cleared, the stranger''s intentions grew bolder.


    Evangeline was pinned against the wall by a man with a broad chest and a narrow waist, his hands roaming over her body with a boldness that was heading dangerously south. "Stop it!" she cried out, pushing against his hands with all her might, but her voice was slurred and feeble from the alcohol.


    "Touch me again, and I''ll scream for help!"


    She did not realize that the alcohol had dulled her senses, making her protests sound more like the weak mewling of a kitten than a threat.


    The man hesitated for a moment, his breath catching. Then, with a swift move, he shifted her sideways, and before she knew it, Evangeline was swept off her feet and cradled in his arms. "Let me go!"


    Her heart sank. She had run into one of those nightclub predators, the kind who lurked in the shadows waiting for an easy target.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 98

    Chapter 98


    Evangeline fought back with everything she had kicking and failing in the man''s felt, but it was useless. the seance ones seemed to put harm in closer Then a sharp pain that through her ear


    "Evangeline of you don''t stop squirming I won''t be responsible for what happened a voice.


    if


    hot and close


    A viver ran down her spine


    Despite her heavy drogas, he knew her That was no ordinary creep


    The path an hirer brought back a flicker of nty


    With was that guy? She had to find out


    ka har tae spion, she heard the click of a door unlocking


    Through the cm light of the hallway, she caught a ghrine of his face by but familiar


    Those features They ked the Wrailers


    imposable war were the odds the full banged to waiter there, in a nightcub here Roslyn NailExclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    that had into dragged her su


    Yahan main the subvering things the end her eyes, desperate for a clear vase


    The door shunging the room dress


    bum


    Evangelie Her Treat susting fom the toute felt a ague of a crash over her She parand at Pure skompy z?others, crying out hot


    Ti so in


    show


    Little did she know her heated breath brushed agent alter''s face


    Her breath, filled with pheromones, greted Water''s barely restrained desme Overwhelmed by desire, he warned nothing more than to consume the wild woman who had been the center of antion at the club, That was exactly what he set out to do


    Exangeline is turning post? Well, he would help her out of her clothes


    The presidential sute was bathed in the glow of distant stars and the nean dance of city lights


    Guided by that din glow Water and Evangeline phantoms on the bed and hovered over her had wanted too long for thes


    Holding his breath, Walter''s defined unds reached for dimicate straps, putting them down with a dol


    Then out of nowhere, Evangeline''s wured voce broke through, you''reing reply Sheughed as she spoke, he face a my pture of denken innocence


    However, to be how a dagger to the hea


    The heat of the moment evaporating chilling old


    mentioned could only mean one person.


    With gritted teeth and clenched fists, Walter fought back his anger and lifted himself off of Evangeline.


    Evangeline had actually mistaken him for Alex!


    Walter rose from the bed, his body shaking uncontrobly.


    Why? Evangeline, his own wife, had drunkenly called him ''bro?


    Fueled by anger, Walter lifted Evangeline by her waist and unceremoniously dumped her into the bathtub.


    The shock of the cold water snapped Evangeline back to reality. Blurred vision gave way to the sight of Walter''s dark, icy face.


    Was it truly Walter? Had she really seen him just then?


    Her body was feverish, the cold water a harsh contrast, sending shivers down her spine.


    Walter stood by the door, a sinister look on his face as he asked, "Have youe to your senses, Evangeline?"


    He did not wait for an answer, his voice booming. "If not, you''ll stay under that cold water until you do!" That was his intention. Chanter da

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 99

    Chapter 99


    Walter was determined to make Evangeline realize who she was dealing with.


    "Walter, you are a monster!"


    Evangeline turned off the shower, braced herself against the tub, and stood to face him.


    ""No, you''re worse. You''re a real demon!


    "Didn''t my uncle tell you that I''m divorcing you tomorrow? So what are you doing here? What''s the deal? Are you trying to be trendy with a parting shot before the divorce, Mr. Walter Gordon?" Evangeline''s biting words left Walter with no chance to argue back.


    The moment Evangeline stepped out of the chilly water, a wave of heat engulfed her. It was an all-consuming ze, as though she was a steak sizzling on a grill.


    What on earth was happening to her?


    She tried to bear the searing pain, but a refreshing sensation on her cheek caught her off-guard. Her eyes snapped up to meet Walter''s, who was looking down at her with a chilling smirk. "Finally awake, Evangeline? Do you see who''s before you?"


    "I''d know you anywhere, Walter. You could be a pile of ashes, and I''d still pick you out," she spat, her voiceced with pain rather than anger.


    Her body was rebelling, aching so fiercely that she could not muster the strength to push his hand away. She was like a red-hot iron, desperately drawing in the soothing relief from his touch. However, it was not enough. She craved more.


    Walter seemed to read her mind, his hand no longer content with caressing her face. Instead, it glided over her body with a possessive ease...


    He watched her flushed cheeks and her breath grow hotter and more rapid, a look of satisfaction spreading across his face.


    This was what he wanted-to see her, the untouchable Evangeline Gordon, at his mercy, craving his touch.


    "Do you want more, Evangeline?" he teased, his voice a tantalizing lure that snagged her heart.


    Even in her haze, Evangeline heard the seductive undertone in those three simple words.


    Evangeline could not believe her eyes. She blinked hard, only to see Walter''s smirk as heid down his challenge. "You want it? Then beg me." Her body was on fire, every cell screaming for release.


    ''Beg him! Just beg, and that agony will stop...N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    Desire wracked her body, tears welling up in her eyes. She was losing her grip on reality.


    However...


    "In your dreams!" she spat out..


    Chaptecon


    Biting down on her lip, the sharp taste of blood jolted her back to her senses.


    "As long as I''ve got even a sliver of sense left, you can kiss your hopes goodbye, Walter!"


    Her shout echoed in the room, even as she calmly assessed her situation. This fever was unnatural, more. like a drug''s effect than genuine desire, She had been yed!


    She tried to think, but another wave of heat crashed over her, and her walls of reason crumbled.


    Walter watched her flushed face, knowing she was close to breaking. Nheless, he felt no rush.


    His lips, red as a blooming rose, taunted her with every suppressed moan, a sensory assault he relished. How could he resist turning up the heat?

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    Chapter 100


    Evangeline had no time to react as Walter grabbed her arm, hoisted her, and tossed her onto the bed. The brief contact with Walter''s body, cool through their thin clothes, was too much for her already frayed


    nerves.


    The relief she felt was like rain after a long drought, so soothing that she could not help but sigh.


    However, why should she give in to Walter, a man she despised?


    What she did not realize was that Walter was struggling too. He felt as if he were on fire, his thirst unquenchable.


    The very person who had ignited that me was still in bed, whispering sweet nothings, her hands. pushing against him relentlessly.


    He inhaled deeply, fighting the urge to give in to temptation. When he looked at Evangeline, his patience seemed to grow.


    ht now?"


    His hand gently caressed her warm, blushing cheek. "Evangeline, tell me, who''s with you in bed right


    Evangeline, driven by instinct, moved closer to theposed presence before her, her mind too muddled to think clearly. Walter."


    She tried to bite her lip to snap back to reality, but her body was too weak to respond.


    "That''s right."N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Walter seldom offered praise, but then he seemed to reward her, weing her tentative closeness. Good girl, say my name." ""Walter..."


    "Once more!"


    "... Ah!"


    A sharp cry broke the silence, but Walter''s gaze softened, filled with an overwhelming affection as he looked at her.


    His hand brushed her forehead, smoothing her tousled hair, and he whispered in his heart, "Evie, the night.


    is far from over."


    The morning sun streamed in, bright and cheerful, through the windows, casting light on the big bed and the woman curled up in the man''s embrace. Evangeline''s eyes, stained with dried tears, opened amid the throbbing pain, only to meet his contented


    gaze.


    The moment Evangeline''s eyes locked onto the man before her, her mind snapped to attention, and she jerked back as if zapped by a bolt of lightning. .only when she tried to move that she realized the extent of her pain, it was as if there was not & sje men of het that did not wh expected


    agedve de


    deck the finers, the age of her rated with vast swathes of blues and purples, and the deep fate marks on her force was too much to beat. meds co


    "Walter, what are you, a dog she tunes


    She could we even tergo to process bow she had made through the night, or how much Walter must


    not despise her to have marked her so silly in the mid terress.


    sca


    Water cleanly having had his fill, was in no mood for a spe


    With a cocky lift of his bold brows, he quipped, "You know everaly what I am"


    His smogness sent her temper through the root


    How could he injure her like that and still have the gall to pre?


    pho


    Seether Evangeline made to storm out of bed, only to discover the chaos thaty beneath it.


    He gave fell on the shredded clothes, the fis stockings, and her high heels, then estranged from


    However, the real showstopper was the litter of trophies from their wild night-a battlefield of used


    Yumonder Were on the bank of divorce. How could you treat me like this?" she screamed. She watched up a pillow and hurled it at Walter''s face "Monger he wond, the word igniting a fire within him as well.

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    Chapter 101


    "Let me show you what a true beast looks like!"


    Evangeline had drunkenly called out for Alex with such joy, a sound that still echoed in his ears.


    That was why he was determined to prove to her through his actions that it was always him by her side. the one who passionately imed her, always him. Evangeline had woken up in a rage, and he realized she was filled with regret.


    Regret for surrendering to him the night before.


    He got out of bed and started putting on his clothes that were scattered around, doing so with a calm precision.


    Walter was undeniably good-looking. Even in crumpled clothes, his charm was untarnished.


    "Evangeline, weren''t we supposed to meet at the County Clerk''s Office? Make sure you''re notte."


    If Evangeline had never loved him, then he would grant her wish. He would agree to the divorce and let her chase after Alex.


    With a decisive m of the door, Walter left without a backward nce,


    Just pulling up his pants and walking away, Walter was the epitome of a heartless cad.


    Evangeline, thinking of her virtue lost in such a bewildering way, snatched a pillow and hurled it in the direction he had gone. "Walter, you jerk!"


    She was aplete mess: Her hair was a wild tangle, her eyes and lips puffy and swollen, and her body. was marked with bruises.


    Walter''s doing was the cause of her misery. It was all his fault.


    She vowed that if she got even the smallest chance, she would make him pay dearly, to get revenge.


    Evangeline''s tears caught her off-guard as she struggled to get out of bed, the sharp pain in her body making her wince. She barely had the strength to take another step. She had to push through. She had to get that divorce from Walter, the absolute worst.


    As she soaked in a tub of warm water, Evangeline could not stop thinking.


    If only she had not gone out to the club with Roslynst night, maybe she would not have been in this


    mess.


    s, life did not deal with ''what ifs''. Even in agony, she had to grit her teeth and weather through it all.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    The pain sharpened her mind..


    Her feverish body the previous night was a dead giveaway that someone had yed her.


    Walter was too arrogant to use such dirty tricks to get a girl. That meant someone else had set her up the previous night


    Who would dare?


    Evangeline had already made it known she was the Foster family''s darling daughter. Who would have the guts to cross her?


    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became. She snatched up her phone and made a call. Someone''s yed me. Find them, fast."


    She trusted entirely the person on the other end of the line, someone she had personally trained to be discreet.


    It was not that she did not trust James. He was her uncle, and if he knew, he might just go berserk on Walter. The drama might escte, and she would never forgive herself if Cole found out. The County Clerk''s Office felt all too familiar.


    Counting the wedding, this was Evangeline''s third visit.


    Evangeline had a tough time getting ready in her hotel room. Nevertheless, she managed to make it to the meeting spot as fast as she could.


    Walter, all dressed up in his sharp suit and shiny shoes, was already there, regrly checking his watch. It was clear he had waited a while.


    The moment Evangeline stopped in front of Walter, he impatiently asked, "Why are you so slow?"

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    Chapter 102


    Evangeline''s brow creased in frustration


    How could she not be slow? Did Walter not have any idea why she was so?


    She was about to let out her pent-up anger when Walter cut her off. "Alright, alright, you''re here now. Just speed it up, will you? I''m in a hurry."


    Indeed, Walter was rushing Evangeline.


    The reason for his rush became apparent soon enough. He was worried that if he waited any longer, and if he let himself think about Alex, the guy Evangeline could not stop thinking about, he would lose his cool. The divorce might fall through. He balled his hands into fists. They had made a deal, and he was determined not to back out.


    Evangeline had not expected Walter, who hadst time fled like a frightened turtle, to be so quick to agree this time around.


    It worked out for her, less hassle.


    She walked into the County Clerk''s Office before him.


    Filling out the forms and getting the certificate took 10 minutes.


    Walter walked away without a backward nce.


    she


    Evangeline looked at the divorce decree in her hand and almostughed. She remembered how hadN?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    schemed and manipted to get Walter to marry her, which took nearly three months to secure that marriage certificate.


    How things have changed.


    A twinge of pain flickered in her heart, strong enough to overshadow any physical pain she was feeling.


    Evangeline fought to keep the tears from spilling over.


    She would never see Walter again. The love she once felt had vanished, leaving only a bitter grudge against him. She had to get to the hospital, the pain was just too much to bear.


    The previous night had been a blur, and she was not sure if Walter had been careful enough. The thought of carrying that jerk''s baby? No way.


    Avalon City General Hospital.


    Evangeline got in to see the gynecologist without a hitch, and the verdict was quick She was swollen, with a few minor tears. The doctor, understanding her predicament, gave her some pills to prevent any unwanted consequences. As she left the clinic, medicine in hand, she collided with someone. "Oh, sorry..." she mumbled, only to hear a voice filled with surprise.


    "Evangeline? Is that really you?"


    Caden wiped his eyes, making sure he was not seeing things. Evangeline''s gaze snapped up, taking in the guy who always tagged along with Walter. It was Caden, alright. Before she could even process that, she spotted a familiar figure nearby. Walter, of all people, was here at the hospital. Her heart clenched at the sight of him.


    Caden, clueless about the tension, elbowed Walter and asked, "Hey, what''s Evangeline doing at the maternity ward? Don''t tell me you two..


    There was no need for more words. The hint of a tease in the tone said it all, and the two of them could fill in the nks with their own imaginations. Evangeline shot Caden an irritated look. "Cut it out. Walter and are officially divorced, and we''re nothing to each other now. Watch what you say from now on!" She was done with Walter,pletely and utterly.


    Unfazed, Caden kept up his eager act. "You''re still the Ms. Evangeline! Look, my dad''s the head of this ce, I''ll just go talk to him....


    He made to leave. Evangeline, however, was faster, grabbing him tight to stop him.

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    Chapter 103


    "I just came to get checked out, no need to make a big deal of it. Thanks for the offer, though." Evangeline''s tone was not exactly warm, yet she was nothing if not courteous Her issues with Walter were her own and would not spill over to anyone else that was her line in the sand.


    "The room''s right next door."


    Caden tried to pull away


    "Really, it''s not necessary, I''m all done here," Evangeline shook her head firmly. She held up the medicine box for him to see, thebel clear as day.


    Levonorgestrel tablets. These were emergency contraceptives for use within 72 hours post-incident. Walter''s expression went through a rapid transformation, turning stormy and dark.


    If Evangeline''s earlier reaction outside the County Clerk''s Office had left him with a glimmer of hope, maybe, just maybe, she had cared for him once. Now, however, he knew better. It took quite a bit of loathing to bolt to the hospital for birth control the second they split up, During Caden and Evangeline''s heated exchange, Walter strode up to Evangeline and announced with a grave tone, "Evangeline, we''re divorced now. From now on, please keep any news about you to yourself." Evangeline felt like giving him the biggest eye roll ever. Why Standing there with Walter, all Evangeline felt was the urge to press her hands together in gratitude." Thanks for setting me free, Walter!" She strutted away in her heels, not once ncing back as she left the gynecology clinic.


    At the hospital entrance, Wade, the young assistant, was on edge, scanning the crowd so he would not miss Evangeline''s departure.


    Tall and easy on the eyes, Wade stood out in the crowd, making it easy for Evangeline to spot him and head his way.


    Out of nowhere, a breathless figure blocked her path.


    "Evangeline-I mean, Ms. Rearden, Can we talk?" Caden, still panting, had managed to intercept her.


    Evangeline stopped in her tracks, taken aback, and asked, "What''s on your mind? Spit it out."


    She could count their conversations on one hand. They hardly ever talked, not even close to friends. What could they possibly have to talk about?


    Caden took a moment to catch his breath.


    "You know, I''m friends with Walter Gordon. That guy is all talk and no action-never says the important stuff. There''s something he''s been meaning to tell you, and I''m here to break the ice." Caden rattled off, worried Evangeline might not stick around to hear him out. Evangeline''s face went from surprised to shocked, and then twisted into a mocking sneer. "Mr. Scott,Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Walter and I have just split up. The ink on our divorce papers is barely dry. Do we really need to keep this conversation going?"


    She did not wait for Caden to answer, cutting him off with her own dismissal.


    "Sorry, but my ride is here, Mr. Scott. Catch youter."


    With a casual wave, she strode over to Wade, slipped her arm through his, and together they left the hospital.


    Caden watched them go, a weird mix of feelings churning inside him.


    Who was the guy picking up Evangeline?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 104

    Chapter 104


    Nheless, it was no surprise. Evangeline was never short on admirers, Caden''s thoughts drifted to Walter''s sour face, and he muttered to himself.


    Was there really no chance left for Evangeline and Walter?


    In the sleek Lamborghini, Wade nced at Evangeline''s pale face with a touch of concern and smoothly fired up the engine.


    "Miss, your birthday''sing up in a few days, and with your identity all over the news, Grandpa wants to throw you a blockbuster birthday party. Got any thoughts on that?"


    He knew his young mistress had been tough as nails and would not have wanted anyone fussing over her. If he let on how worried he was, it might just have stung her pride. Thus, he kept it strictly business when he asked about the party ns.


    ''So, who''s gonna run the show?" She was not surprised that Cole had wanted to go all out for her birthday. His health had been on the rocks, which


    just made him all the more determined to shower her with every good thing under the sun, including a blowout birthday party.


    Deep down, she was not one for splurging, but she could not have said no to her grandfather''s wishes. There was just one thing: Cole was not well, and the thought of him stressing over her party had been too much for her to handle. If someone else could have taken the "Yale is on it," Wade chimed in, and Evangeline''s worries melted away.


    "Let Uncle Yale handle it. I''m pretty happy with how things are right now, and I don''t need anything else."


    Out of everything in the world, the one thing Evangeline, the Foster family''s darling, had truly longed for was Walter''s love-a love she had yet to win, and in chasing it, she had lost herself and her heart.


    All she had wanted at this moment was for her grandfather and her uncles to be healthy and happy.


    Little did Evangeline know, the Foster family estate had been buzzing with excitement. Her uncles hade home, and the once tranquil ce became a hive of activity. They were gearing up to throw Evangeline a massive birthday party, and the timing could not have bee right after her divorce.


    Yale Foster, Evangeline''s eldest uncle on her mother''s side, was on the scene in no time.


    His niece, Evangeline, had been hassled by a no-good guy. Yale, with his tough-as-nails special forces background and his role as the influential number two in the South, was not about to sit back and do nothing. Comment by Lee Laindingold: North


    His brothers were all on their way too. They wereing home to throw Evangeline the birthday bash of the year, yet they also shared another mission.


    "Think you can mess with the Foster family''s darling girl and get away with it?"


    Evangeline''s uncles were not pushovers. They were ready to show that jerk exactly what would happen when anyone crossed them!


    As Evangeline walked in, Yale was on a video call with his brothers, right at the moment they were


    plotting Walter''seuppance.


    Wade caught wind of the delicate subject and coughed loudly to clue in Yale.N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    Yale got the hint and turned to Evangeline, his face a mix of concern and awkwardness.


    They all knew about Evangeline''s soft spot for that Walter guy. Talking about teaching him a lesson behind her back, they had no clue how she would take it.


    Evangeline, ever the cool and collected one, faced Yale and asked, "Uncle Yale, you guys are nning to straighten out Walter, aren''t you?"


    She had overheard every word of the uncles'' chat.


    "Yeah," Yale admitted, feeling a sudden unease. When it came to his precious niece, his usually steady nerves were shot. She had been through enough; how could he bear to see her upset again?


    Evangeline''s lips curled into a mischievous smirk, and her eyebrows raised in delight. "Well then, have at it and make it count," she said.


    After the rough time Walter had given her, she was itching for some payback. Since her uncles were eager to lend a hand, she thought, why not let them?


    She left Uncle Yale, who was still trying to catch up with the situation, and was about to head straight to her grandpa''s ce when her phone buzzed with a new message.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 105

    Chapter 105


    A text hade in, Tapping the screen, she was greeted by a photo of Julia, grinning wickedly as she dropped a pill into a blue cocktail. It all clicked for Evangeline. The one who had sneakily sabotaged her at the Whiskey Barrel Pub


    was none other than J! It made sense.


    Evangeline was always kind, never the type to stir up trouble. If anyone had a grudge, it had to be Julia and her family.


    Evangeline''s fingers tensed, and fierce glint sparked in her eyes. She swiped to reply and typed with purpose. (Snatch her up, take her to our spot] Hitting send, she felt a wave of relief wash over her.


    Julia, you like ying dirty? Two can y at that game! She would be waiting to watch her fall. To Evangeline''s dismay, it was not long before she got another message, one that turned the tables. [ Julia''s gone] Just two words, yet they camed a weight of meaning Julis, a nobody starlet, missing? How could she pull a vanishing act without a trace?


    She had managed to sneak away right under the watchful eyes of her own crew! It was obvious someone powerful had lent her a hand


    Julia was a nobody in Avalon City, with no connections or family to speak of. Her only lifeline was... Walter.


    It was a no-brainer, really. In all of Avalon City, who else could have dodged her manhunt but Walter?


    Julia was Walter''s little princess, pampered beyond belief. With Walter''s clout in the South, keeping Julia safe was a piece of cake Evangeline''s heart clenched


    She could not tell if it was the memory of Walter''s affection for Julia or his coldness toward her that hurt


    more


    This time, Evangeline did not bother with a text. She found the number and called it straight "Miss, how may I assist you?"


    The voice on the line was all politeness, one Evangeline knew all too well.


    away.


    Evangeline took a moment topose herself, then said, "Get Walter on the line. I want Julia found, alive or otherwise! I''m taking care of this Julia business myself!"


    After all, Julia had the nerve to sabotage her, slipping her a drug in the chaos of a nightclub. The audacity!


    There was no way Evangeline would let such an insult slide without consequences.


    Evangeline made the call personally, of course.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    As the Foster family''s princess, who could make or break fortunes in Avalon City, why would she need to go through someone else to deal with her ex-husband? Evangeline let out a coldugh, found Walter''s number on her phone, and hit the call button without


    hesitation Chapter 105


    In the rundown, deserted factory, a tall man stood in front of an air vent, dressed in a sleek gray suit. He was draped in a cashmere coat that fit him like a glove. His designer pants hugged his legs, showing off a physique that seemed sculpted to perfection. Every move he It was Walter Gordon of the prestigious Gordon family.


    The factory was dead silent, a picture of decay, so quiet anyone could hear a pin drop.


    The sudden ring of the phone cut through the silence like a knife.


    Walter nced at the shing numbers on the screen, his striking eyebrows knitting together in annoyance


    He had made it clear that he did not want to be bothered with any more issues, so why the call?


    His finger lingered over the end call button for what felt like an eternity. With a heavy sigh, Walter finally epted the call.

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    Chapter 106


    The call connected, yet Walter did not jump to speak. What could he possibly say to Evangeline, who was practically his ex at this point?


    Unable to hold back her fury any longer, Evangeline on the other end confronted him. "Out with it, Walter. Is Julia there with you?"


    Her voice was full of righteous indignation, demanding


    A heaviness settled in Walter''s chest. His gaze lingered on a ck metal door before he turned to look outside. With a scoff, he replied to the fiery spirit on the other end of the line.


    "Ms. Rearden, unless I''m mistaken, isn''t Ms. Julia your half-sister? It seems a bit off for you to grill me like this, doesn''t it?"


    Evangeline was not in the mood for Walter''s evasive games. "You know perfectly well what my rtionship with Julia is like. Let me be clear, my people have been searching high and low for her, and she''s nowhere to be found


    in Avalon City! Everyone knows the Gordons rule the South and the Fosters dominate the North. Apart from my own family, who else in Avalon City could hide someone from me?" Comment by Lee Laindingold: North Comment by Lee Laindingold: South She knew the Gordon family''s power all too well since she held most of their shares.


    If Walter was set on challenging her, she could not touch him-at least not right away. She could let everything else slide, however. Everyone but Julia. She was the one person Evangeline would never give


    up on.


    Walter, it seemed, was intent on provoking her. "I appreciate your recognition of the Gordon family''s clout. But where''s your proof? Without it, your baseless usations are just dragging our name through the mud, and I could take this to court, you know!"


    The word ''proof'' hit Evangeline hard, leaving her momentarily at a loss for words, but the anger it sparked burned deep inside her. Walter was the kind of guy who would not face the music until everything came crashing down around him.


    It was a done deal, as sure as if it had been nailed down, yet how could he shamelessly deny it?


    "So, if not the Gordons, who else could pull this off? Evangeline pressed, feigning difficulty to coax the truth out of Walter.


    "Should I be the one worrying about that?" Walter shot back, his wordsced with a sneer. "Evangeline, you''re still ying the part of the Gordon family''s matriarch? Our divorce is in the works. Once the waiting period''s up and the papers are signed, you and I are history. S Before Walter could finish, Evangeline cut the call. She had had enough.


    The nerve of him, denying everything and then taking shots at her!


    Evangeline''s fists were clenched so tightly that her knuckles turned white. If Walter had been there, she would have bitten him just to get some relief from this boiling rage. What a shame that he was not there.


    This fury... She was not about to just choke it down!


    Waiting for Walter to reach out was a lost cause, yet she could go after him.


    She was determined to make Walter cough up that lowlife Julia.


    Little did Evangeline know, as the dial tone buzzed in her ear, a flicker of confusion crossed Walter''s dark gaze before it quickly iced over into his usual detached chill.


    Slipping his phone into his pocket, Walter strode forward and swung open the ck metal door before him


    The moment it cracked open, a woman''s fierce roar burst forth.


    00 000


    Haller fiosad bar series the que men and led wall a As a wilde by WoodhaveN?velDrama.Org holds this content.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 107

    Chapter 107


    Julia would never forget those chilling words, though she never thought he would actually act on them. "Walt, can you really be this heartless? Don''t you remember what happened between us- She was cut off as Walter interrupted her without a hint of pity.


    "Don''t bring up the past, Julia! I''ve always wondered if it was really you who saved me back then. That doesn''t matter anymore."


    Something flickered in Walter''s eyes as he smirked again, and when he looked at Julia, there was a brutal-


    gleam in his gaze. "So what if it was you? Haven''t I been patient enough with the Rearden family all these years? Julia, you know being greedy never ends well. We''ve settled our scores a long time ago!" Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

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    Chapter 108


    Truth be told, Julia''s family antics were all on Walter''s radar. He knew exactly what they were up to, good or bad. He had been biting his tongue for years, turning a blind eye, all out of respect for the old days. Atst, he reached his breaking point.


    "So what if it is?" Julia''s face, once filled with sorrow, shapped back to a coolposure, her tears vanishing as if they had never been.


    She had been head over heels for Walter, bending over backward to win him over, aiming for his heart. What had she gotten for it? A one-way ticket to being kidnapped by Walter himself?


    "Walter, cut the act! Aren''t you just as miserable as I am? Evangeline married you, so why give her the cold shoulder? Is it because you heard Alex ising back? Now Evangeline is about to be a total stranger to you after the divorce cooling- off period ends in a month!"


    He had to hand it to Julia; she was sharp. Her words had been like daggers, stabbing right at walter''s


    heart.


    Walter shook with rage, struggling to keep his cool as he shot back.


    He could not pinpoint when it had started, but Evangeline had be a trigger for him, setting off his emotions like a ticking bomb.


    "What about it?"


    Julia burst into a mockingugh, "My dear Walt, are you still clueless? You, Walter, will always be Evangeline''s n B, nothing but her backup guy...''


    Walter''s face turned stormier with each word Julia spat out. Her tirade, however, was cut short.


    A strong hand had suddenly gripped her throat with a vice-like intensity.


    She was drowning in an invisible sea, her lungs screaming for air, her body seized by a bone-chilling terror. "Young Master!"


    The bodyguard''s shout snapped Walter back to reality.


    He stared at Julia, her face a ghostly pale, her body limp, and he recoiled as if jolted by a shock.


    What had he been thinking?


    Had he almost killed Julia?


    To think, for such a poisonous woman, he would stoop so low as to dirty his hands!


    He snatched the white handkerchief from the bodyguard, wiped his hands, and tossed it aside with a look of disgust. Pointing at Julia, hemanded, "Take her to Northern Montavia. As for the Rearden family. Let them be history." The handkerchiefy abandoned on the floor, trampled by gleaming shoes that did not miss a beat.


    Julia, barely recovered, was petrified by his words.


    Northern Montavia, that nightmare of a ce....


    She could not believe Walter would be so cruel!


    "Walt, please, I''m begging you, let me stay! I love you so much, I''ll be your maid, anything! Just let me serve you!" she cried out, her voice a desperate wail.


    Then, a handnded on her shoulder.N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    She looked up to see a face devoid of emotion.


    The words that followed, however, were the final blow,


    "He has left..."


    7


    As Walter walked away from the eerie, deserted factory, the sky had slipped into darkness. He was in a foul mood, but could not quite figure out why. Maybe it was something Julia had said, or maybe it was the thought of his older brother, who was about to leave the countr All he wanted was to drive back to the old family home and hole up in the room he and Evangeline used to share, craving a slice of silence where no one could bother him.

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    Little did Walter know, this night was not going to be just any ordinary night, and the quiet he longed for was nowhere in sight.


    Evangeline, having failed to find Walter at his Crystal Waters apartment, decided to camp out at the Gordon family mansion. With Julia out of reach and nothing better to do, she figured she might as well wait there. She could not imagine Walter would stay away from home


    By the time she arrived, Trey had fallen asleep, and her ex-mother-inw Aria, who never got along with her, was out of sight. Evangeline shooed away the servants and settled into the living room, ready for a long, solitary vigil.


    She had expected to sit in the quiet, waiting for Walter to show up. Before she could even getfortable, however, a familiar figure appeared, carrying a steaming cup of tea to the coffee table.


    "Evie, you''re back! How was work today? Tired? Here, take a break and have some tea," the voice said cheerfully


    Instead of setting the tea down, the cup was promptly ced into Evangeline''s startled hands. She blinked in surprise, wiping her eyes to make sure she was not imagining things.


    Serving tea and being so attentive, could it really be Aria, her former mother-inw?


    Evie took the tea automatically, her eyes wide with surprise.


    Before she could even think about how to address Aria, Aria beat her to it, asking, "Evie, are you feeling out of ce?" She awkwardly touched her hair, "I know I''ve changed a lot, but..." She seemed to struggle to find the words, letting out a frustrated sigh before finally finding the courage to


    go on,


    "I was a terrible mother-inw, and I''m sorry, Evie. Can''t you stop being mad at me? From now on, I''ll treat you like my own daughter, I promise!"


    Aria''s change of heart had been too sudden,


    Her actions had been so transparent that Evangeline would have had to be clueless not to understand the motive.


    It was not just because her status as the Foster family''s darling hade to light.


    All of a sudden, Aria wanted to cozy up to her, hoping to wipe the te clean of past wrongs? As if that could ever happen.


    Could she just forget all those times Aria had looked down on her and made her life miserable?


    Evangeline scoffed. "Mdm. Gordon, Walter and I are getting a divorce soon, so there''s really no point in this."


    She was done with Walter, Aria was the least of her concerns.


    All she wanted was to find that jerk Walter and settle the score once and for all!


    Aria''s face turned beet red, her neck bulging with indignation.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    She never would have imagined that Evangeline, who had always been so timid around her, would be so bold!


    Remembering who Evangeline truly was, her anger fizzled out just as quickly as it had surged.


    Evangeline, the Foster family''s darling, had a fiery streak-was not that just part of her charm?


    "Evie, stop with the wild talk. Sticking with your first love is the way to go. You and Walter are perfect together. Why even think about splitting up?"


    Aria''s smile was all sweetness and caution, a stark contrast to the memories flooding Evangeline''s mind of Aria''s less-than-kind moments.


    4


    "Don''t be silly, I''m not even in Walter''s league." Evangeline was there, so why not indulge Aria in a little'' heart-to-heart?


    Out of nowhere, a loud bang echoed from the living room door.


    Walter stormed in, his face a thundercloud.


    Aria, already flustered by Evangeline, clung to Walter as if he were her lifeline.


    "Walter, look who''s here! Evie''s back. You two need to hash things out. What''s a little tiff between lovebirds? You''ll make up in no time-you know, a little bump in the road never stopped you two before."

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    Chapter 110


    Aria approached Walter, but then she saw his ashen face and the beads of sweat on his brow.


    A mother''s intuition was never wrong.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Even though Walter had recently fought with her over his wife, Aria''s heart ached at the sight of him. "Walter, what''s wrong?"


    She reached for his arm instinctively and gasped at the sight of the blood on his sleeve.


    *Blood? Where are you hurt? Let me see! What happened? How did you get this?"


    Walter was not really hurt. He had just squeezed Julia a bit too hard, and her neck had bled onto his sleeve.


    That was a secret he would never share with Aria.


    "I''m okay, it''s just a little cut," sighed Walter, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation as he wriggled out of Aria''s grip and headed for the stairs. He was aware that Evangeline had shown up, but after theirst phone call had ended on such a sour note, he was not sure w Evangeline, however, was not the type to let things slide so easily. She had not skipped out on a cozy bubble bath and a night of beauty sleep just to let Walter slip away. She had been listening in when Aria mentioned his injury, and she hade closer, though Walter kne "Walter, isn''t there anything you want to tell me?" asked Evangeline, her slender frame leaning casually against the stair railing, her stunning legs on disy in a simple dress that made it hard for anyone to look


    away.


    Walter, fresh from a moment of satisfaction, was reminded of how soft she felt in his arms. He took a deep breath, trying to keep his cool. "Why are you even here?" he asked, his voice tinged with annoyance.


    Sensing the tension, Aria made herself scarce, which suited Evangeline just fine. Aria was always quick to defend her friends, and Evangeline did not need anyone interfering right now.


    "What am I here for, you ask? Come on, you know exactly why," said Evangeline, her beautiful eyes locked on his as she took a step closer.


    Walter gave her a once-over and cracked a sly grin, ready for whatever game Evangeline was ying You look like you''re itching for something more. What, did you get a taste for it that night and now you''re dying for an encore?" The mere mention of that night sent Evangeline into a rage.


    A night of supposed fun, and this guy walked away without a scratch, while she ended up in the hospital needing meds!


    ""You''re such a jerk, bringing that up!"


    Fuming, Evangeline swung her hand to deliver a p. He was quicker and stronger, however. He caught her delicate wrist in a vice-like grip. Chapter 110


    "Oh? Is this your twisted way of flirting?" he taunted."Starting a little rough to spice things up forter?" Evangeline was at a loss for words.


    She finally got it-Walter''s head was swimming with nothing but trashy thoughts. She would not let him. drag her down!


    She yanked her wrist free and, without holding back, demanded loudly, "Walter, I''m only going to ask your once."


    She inhaled deeply, her gaze locking with Walter''s intense eyes. "Did you hide Julia away?"


    Walter''s eyes turned stormy, a shadow passed over them.


    "Yes."


    Face to face, unlike over the phone, he could not lie to her, could not even pretend.


    He had no idea that his single word would unleash a tidal wave in Evangeline''s heart.

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    Walter had heard every harsh word Julia''s family had thrown. There was no way he could ignore it.


    All that, and he stood by her side, shielding her from more harm. The unspoken truth of his loyalty did not need to be spelled out.


    Evangeline''s eyes glistened with unshed tears, and as she looked at Walter, a wave of emotion washed over her, burying both her tears and thest bits of her daydreams about him.


    She wanted to confront him, to ask, "Walter, does Julia mean that much to you? And what about me? Am I just someone you spent one night with?"


    The words would note, however.


    Her pride, the pride of the Foster family''s darling daughter, had been crushed once when she pressured Walter into marriage. She could not let it happen again.


    Evangeline inhaled sharply, her face a mask of frost, her eyes glinting like ice. "Give me Julia, and I''ll disappear."


    Julia''s actions were beyond forgiveness.


    Evangeline might not have cared what Walter thought. However, she wanted Julia to pay with her life. "Impossible." Walter checked the time, his voice devoid of emotion.


    Had Evangeline asked half an hour earlier, there might have been a chance. Julia, however, was already on a ne to Northern Montavia, out of reach.


    Besides, Walter had no intention of handing Julia over to Evangeline.


    He would not touch Julia with a 10-foot pole, so why would he let Evangeline sully her hands? Letting Julia go off to Northern Montavia to deal with her own mess was the best oue he could imagine. "Why can''t it be possible?"


    Evangeline, clueless about the real story, demanded with fierce rity, "Is it because she''s your darling. so you''re scared she won''t end well if she ends up with me? What about me?"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    She pointed to her chest, "Do you have any idea that your preciousdy drugged me at the Whiskey Barrel Pub, a ce crawling with all sorts of shady characters? Her motives for doing that don''t need exining, right?


    "If it hadn''t been for you that night, who knows which lowlife would have taken advantage of me! Is it wrong for me to confront Julia for some justice?


    "Why is it that she can do all sorts of wrong and walk away without a scratch, while I, who did absolutely nothing, who just wanted to enjoy a drink and dance at the club, have to suffer in silence? Is it all because Julia has you as her guardian angel?" The more Evangeline spoke, the angrier she got, her stunning face turning a fiery red. Ovee with emotion, she lost control and pped Walter hard across the face when he least expected it.


    She despised Walter. She wished that he and his sweetheart would just drop dead.


    Near the stairs, the sharp sound of the p echoed through the living room. A vivid red handprint stood out on Walter''s face.


    Rage ignited within him, and he grabbed Evangeline''s hand-the one that had just struck him-and hoisted her up effortlessly. The door mmed shut with a thud.


    Evangeline was tossed onto the bed with a heavy thump.


    In the spacious room, Evangeline, nursing her bruised arm, looked defiantly into Walter''s furious, red eyes and mocked him without a care.


    "What''s the matter? Your little fling didn''t do the trick, so you''re sneaking around with me for some excitement?" Evangeline''s words dripped with intentional innuendo, though the tension between them was more like a standoff in a cowboy duel- no room for anything steamy. She was baiting him, aiming to make him squirm.

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    Walter''s face turned stormy, yet he quickly yed along "Yeah," he said, "We''ve been married for two years, and you''ve never once shared my bed. Now that we''re splitting up. I figure it''s time I did my husbandly duty and gave you something to remember.


    As Walter leaned in, his words kepting. "Otherwise, what would people say if my wife was still virgin after two years? That''d surely tarnish my reputation."


    He grabbed Evangeline''s wrist with a strong grip, his towering frame ready to loom over her.


    "You jerk, get off me!" Evangeline fought back with her free hand, kicking out


    fiercely. "I''d rather take my chances with a beggar than let youy a finger on me! So what if you''re Mr. Walter Gordon of the Gordon family? So what if you can shake the heavens and the earth with your power? Your heart''s as dirty as theye, not even a street beggar Walter fumed, teeth clenched. "You think I''m lower than a beggar?" he said, and in a swift move, he ripped off his shirt, his chiseled torso on full disy.


    Walter had that deceptive kind of look-skinny with his clothes on. Once they came off, anyone would see he was all muscle. His skin was pale, yet underneath, his muscles were cut and his lines smooth, with a hint of an eight- pack that showed he was strong without being too bulky.


    His perfection was striking, down to every strand of his hair.


    Evangeline knew all about Walter''s looks, but after what she had been through, she could not care less.


    Walter pushed her down onto the bed, his voice heavy with anger, "You didn''t feel anything that night because of the drugs, right? Well, this time, you''re going to feel everything."


    He was about to touch her when a knock at the door interrupted them.


    ""Walter, I heard Evie''s here..."


    Trey''s voice came through. Walter was beyond listening, though.


    Shirtless, he pinned Evangeline beneath him, shed a menacing smile that showed off his white teeth, and hissed, "Evangeline, are you going to strip for me, or do I have to make you? What''s it going to be?" Evangeline looked into Walter''s furious eyes and felt a chill like never before. The ce where he had hurt her before was still throbbing with pain.


    "Walter, do you really have to do this?"


    She was already hurt, and he knew it. Even so, here he was, demanding this from her-it was beyond cruel.


    The sound of fabric tearing echoed in the room as Walter held up a piece of her dress, his voice dark and cold, "Evangeline, you''re not walking out that door today."


    "Walter, you''re a monster!" Evangeline fought back with everything she had, and in a frantic move, she sank her teeth into Walter''s shoulder


    Walter''s cry of pain echoed through the room, and his movements grew wilder, like a tempest unleashed upon Evangeline.


    Trey, still waiting for a reply from Walter, was confused at first. As the sounds from inside grew louder, however, his imagination painted a picture that made him knock with growing desperation. "Walter, how can you do this to Evie?! Have you lost your mind? Let her go now!"N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    Trey''s shouts fell on deaf ears. If anything, they seemed to spur Walter on.


    He had lost it,pletely unhinged by Evangeline.


    Her hair was a mess, her lips bruised, and her dress was in tatters, revealing glimpses of whaty beneath, silently capturing his gaze.

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    After a night''s exploration, Walter knew every sensitive spot on Evangeline''s body.


    With just a gentle touch in the right ce, he could make her catch her breath, Evangeliney there, her body rigid and tense, gasping for air like a fish out of water.


    Walter, however, was not satisfied. He wanted her to plead with him.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    His actions grew more daring, his fingers boldly probing, stirring up a storm within Evangeline''s mind. A soft moan broke through the silence, Evangeline pped a hand over her mouth as if shocked by her own reaction. What was happening to her? She felt pleasure from Walter''s touch!


    "Stop it, Walter, you''re making me sick!" Her body instinctively fought back, trying to protect itself from his unwee advances.


    Evangeline fought back against Walter with a flurry of punches and kicks, even targeting his weak spots. When one of her kicks missed its mark, Walter''s patience, already hanging by a thread, snapped. He flipped her over with a swift move and the next thing she knew, pa


    thing, however, was crystal clear to her. "You''re done for, Walter!" she spat out. "I won''t let this slide, and neither will the Fosters. You''re going to regret this! Her hatred for him was a living thing, wishing him to the deepest pits. She was the cherished princess of the Foster family; how dare he treat her this way?


    Then, a deep voice cut through her bitter warning. "If I were you, I wouldn''t provoke your man in such a moment." Walter''srge hand was on her back, his breath warm on her skin. "Evangeline, the night is long. Try to enjoy it..."


    His rage seemed to have cooled, his touch turning softer without him even realizing. Evangeline, however, was not buying this sudden gentleness. She wished he would be even crueler, so she could etch this pain into her memory and kill any foolish hopes she might have harbored.


    375


    "You call this enjoyment, not torture?" she scoffed. "Walter, you''re as awkward and rough as theye. Don''t tell me


    you''re as green as I am? Wow, this is just ridiculous. Who would''ve guessed that the almighty Walter Gordon of the Gordon family, after all these years, is still wet behind the ears?"


    She spun around on top of him, tapping his chin with one hand, "Come on, can you cut it or not?"


    "Whether I can cut it isn''t up to you!" The more Walter tried to show his mettle, the more his body refused to cooperate, and he was done for in no time.


    Evangeline could not help butugh out loud. "Looks like you really can''t cut it, Mr. Walter Gordon. Maybe you should sip some Viagra to get your strength back. Overdoing it can hurt you, you know!" She had no idea that her taunts were a direct hit to Walter''s ego.


    Clueless, shey on the bed looking all ready for the taking, while he felt utterly


    5 BONUS


    +25


    A fiery anger zed up in him, and Walter, with a certain part of him standing at attention again, zeroed in on the unsuspecting Evangeline on the bed and lunged like a wolf on the prowl. "About whether I can cut it or not, you can make that call after tonight. There''s still time!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 114

    Chapter 114


    After a night of madness, Evangeline woke up in Walter''s bed for the first time with only one thought in her mind, and that was pain.


    She staggered out of bed, her legs shaking, ring at the empty half of the bed, seething with


    She could not believe she let that jerk win again!


    Clutching the spot that throbbed with pain, Evangeline seethed with fury.


    anger.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Walter was no human. He had put her through the wringer all night, and before she even came to, he had pulled up his pants and left without a second thought, not even bothering with protection. It was downright vile! What if she ended up pregnant? They were both divorced. How on earth could she have Walter''s baby? Evangeline''s phone erupted into a loud ring just then.


    Nearly scrambling on all fours, she got to her bedside, snatching up the phone.


    It was a call from Wade.


    Her eyes widened at the sight of dozens of missed calls-she was totally shocked.


    Evangeline was unaware of the drama that had been unfolding elsewhere.


    Walter had been yanked out of his room.


    He had been in the middle of a blissful moment, wrapped up with


    Evangeline, on the verge of slipping into dreams, when Trey appeared at his bedside, keys in hand. Walter caught one glimpse of Trey''s furious, ashen face and mped his mouth shut, signaling they needed to take this outside.


    At this moment, Walter was kneeling neatly before Trey. It was a rare sight-Walter was known for his defiance.


    Trey, staring down at his grandson, felt no pride, only a rising tide of anger.


    Remembering the scene he had walked in on, Trey lost it andshed out with his cane, striking Walter''s back again and again in a fit of rage


    He only stopped when he was too exhausted to continue, gasping for breath.


    "Walter, do you even understand why I''m doing this?'' Trey''s voice was sharp as he focused on Walter''s face.


    That was when he saw it-Walter had kept his head down the whole time, not uttering a single word, just silently taking the pain.


    At that moment, Trey knew he had his answer.


    Feeling as if all


    his strength had been sapped, Trey''s grip on his cane loosened, and it ttered to the floor. He pped his hand on the desk, his voice heavy with disappointment, "You know exactly who Evie is! How could you treat her like that? What am I supposed to tell her grandfathe The pain on Walter''s back was searing, his face turning ghostly pale. He tried to act nonchnt, lighting up a cigarette and inhaling deeply. Only then did the pain start to fade


    al


    Walter''s gaze snapped back into focus, his dark eyes icy as he faced Trey, not a flicker of emotion. passing between them.


    "Are you done? Evangeline''s due for a wake-up call. If you''ve finished your tantrum, let me check on her!" Walter''s defiance nearly drove Trey to the edge, the urge to throttle him rising in his chest.


    Considering Evangeline was still in her room, and the delicate matters at hand, how could he, an old man, step in?


    Fuming, Trey gestured sharply at Walter. "Beat it! If you can''t make things right with Evie, don''t you daree back home!"


    Inside her room, Evangeline ended the call with Wade''s assistant and yanked the sheets away to inspect her wounds.


    Her skin was a patchwork of bruises, old and new mingling into a grim tapestry. Even so, these were nothingpared to the injury she could not bear to face.


    She hesitantly parted her legs, the sight of the damage Walter had inflicted there was too much. She nced once and had to look away.


    Overwhelmed, tears flooded down as she hugged her knees to her chest, her bruised arms encircling her legs, curling into a tight ball to shield her frail frame.

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    Chapter 115


    Oh Evangeline, what''s be of you? You are the Foster family''s darling girl! How did you end up in such a mess?"


    Tears traced paths down her cheeks, dripping off her chin and soaking her thighs. Evangeline could not keep up with them, eventually stopping trying and letting the tears fall freely. A phrase she had once scrolled past online shed through her mind.


    obe


    "If being with someone doesn''t make you happy, then maybe that rtionship was never meant to


    Evangeline knew deep down, even if she could not face it: Marrying Walter, against her grandfather and uncles'' advice, was a colossal mistake.


    Out of nowhere, the click of a key in the lock snapped her back to reality.


    The door-swung open, and there was Walter, slipping a tube of white cream into his pocket as he walked


    1. in.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She could not stand the sight of him, the guy who had brought her nothing but grief. She turne staring out the window instead.


    Walter, cool as ever, just moved to stand in front of the window, blocking her view. He had that kind of look that could turn heads-


    sharp eyes, sculpted brows, lips that barely parted. His white shirt, thin and crisp, looked like it was made just for him. Bathed in backlight, he seemed like some kind of angelic figure.


    e even


    For a split second, Evangeline felt a weird sense of hope. She shook it off, however. How could she think for a moment that Walter was her savior?


    After all, he was the source of nearly all her troubles. She knew she needed to get away from this nightmare to find her peace.


    Then, in a heartbeat, Walter stood there, arms folded, gazing at her with those intense eyes.


    "Still hurting?" he asked.


    His concern caught her off-guard. Evangeline was not buying it, however. They had been through too much, and the wounds from theirst encounter had not even healed before new ones were added.


    Her legs hurt so much she could not even think about leaving the bed. She looked away, refusing to meet Walter''s eyes.


    She thought her silence would be answer enough for Walter.


    In a swift move that caught herpletely off guard, Walter''srge hand swept through the air, and he scooped her up, carrying her into the restroom before she could even blink.


    In the mirror, Evangeline''s small frame was held close by Walter. The still mirror world showed no signs of their previous arguments or confrontations, just a striking couple in a scene that was surprisingly harmonious, even intimate. The thought made Evangeline snicker.


    Her and Walter? As if.


    She blinked her pretty eyes, taking in Walter''s reflection.


    "What''s the big idea, Mr. Walter Gordon? Are you sayingst night wasn''t wild enough for you, and now you''re looking for a daytime bathroom encore?"


    Walter''s eyes darkened, and he let out a sly chuckle. "I like the way you think. If you''re up for it, why not?" He sat her down on the edge of the sink and pulled his hand back, reaching toward her legs.


    Walter was a man of his word, and Evangeline, mistaking his intent, thought he was about to unleash his lust on her once more. She shoved him hard.


    "Get off me, Walter! You''re nothing but a brute!"

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    Chapter 116


    Evangeline could never have imagined that after all the pain Walter had caused her, he still had the audacity to want more from her.


    The strength between a man and a woman was too uneven, however. Even though Evangeline''s shove took him by surprise, Walter quickly steadied himself and began to peel off the pants she had just managed to put on. Evangeline''s skin prickled with the anticipation of the agony that was toe.


    "You''ve hurt me twice already! My legs are throbbing with pain..."


    She fought desperately against Walter''s iron grip.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Then, with a sudden squeeze of his strong arms that almost sounded like a plea, Walter urged, "Don''t


    move! Let me check."


    His voice had been gentle, and hismanding touch had been careful not to hurt her, yet Evangeline''s trust had long been gone.


    "The best thing you can do for me is to keep your distance!"


    To Evangeline, keeping away from someone who seemed ready to pounce at any moment had been the only safe option.


    The more she squirmed, the tighter Walter held her. "Stay still, I need to put some medicine on this."


    "Medicine? That''s ridiculous! What if I don''t want it?"


    Despit


    her resistance, Walter''s overwhelming strength won out.


    A sharp, ripping pain had shot through her as Walter finally saw the wound-the tender spot angry and swollen, shining faintly with a clear cut visible.


    "I don''t need your help with medicine, Mr. Walter Gordon. I''ll say it again-I want you far away f


    from me!"


    Walter had not given her a chance to protest. He had lifted her onto the counter and went to retrieve her clothes. "This isn''t good, you need to see a doctor!" Evangeline had just broken free, and there was no way she was about to


    start taking orders. Ignoring the throbbing pain, she scrambled down from the washstand, snatched up a bath towel to wrap around herself, and made a dash for it. Walter was on her in a sh, catching her before she could escape. "What do you think you''re doing? I''m telling you, I''m not going to the hospital!"


    The mere thought of thest hospital visit made her cringe. She could not bear the thought of going through that embarrassment again.


    "Fine," said Walter, gripping her wrist firmly, a generous offer in his voice, "it''s your choice: hospital or medicine.


    "Why should I do what you say?"


    She


    e was the cherished princess of the Foster family, used to having others hang on her every word. She had listened to Walter because she liked him before, but those days were over. Chapter 116


    Her defiance only made Walter smirk. Holding her close, he leaned in, his lips grazing the sensitive spot behind her ear in a teasing whisper.


    "You might not realize it, but I actually love this feisty side of you... Last night, you kept saying ''no'', but your body told the truth. You melted at my touch, soft as can be... Really inviting..."


    His voice, rough with a hint of a seductive rasp, seemed to pull her back into the heat ofst night''s encounter. Walter had been relentless, teasing and taunting her, not stopping even when her tears fell. "Stop making stuff up..."


    Evangeline tried to protest, yet the sudden hardness in Walter''s gaze stopped her cold.


    "Evangeline, you''d better listen up," Walter snapped, his voice icy. "Until that divorce paper is in your pretty little hands, you''re going to toe the line. If I catch you cozying up to any other guy, he''s as good as dead, got it?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 117

    Chapter 117


    Walter''s tone took a sharp turn, a sly grin spreading across his face. And as for you. His eyes roamed over her with a look that made her skin crawl "Given how much I''m enjoying yourpany these days. being stuck in bed would be getting off easy Evangeline''s mouth twisted in disgust. Stuck in bed was getting off easy? Was he implying she might end up dead? The thought sent shivers down her spine. She had heard of guys overdoing it and kicking the bucket, but was that a thing for women too? "Oh, and drop the birth control," he continued, oblivious to her difort. "You''ve been dying to have my baby, right? Well, wish granted. No more acting. If you get pregoant quickly, it''ll put your grandpa''s mind at rest. Who knows, without those pills, you might just get luck The mention of her sick grandfather squeezed her heart with guilt. His dearest wish was to see his great-grandchild. Evangeline was too used to shing with Walter, and she could not help but hit back "With your track record? You really think you can score a home run on your first try? Maybe you''re giving yourself too much credit."


    She scoffed, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You know, they say guys who brag like you usually have some issues in the bedroom. Maybe you should get that checked out, sooner rather thanter."


    With that parting shot, she slipped into her clothes and tiptoed down the stairs, not realizing that Aria, her ex-mother-inw, had been waiting for her at the bottom for quite some time.


    Evangeline steadied herself, her steps shaky as she made her way to the living room. She had barely sunk into the couch when Aria appeared with a steaming bowl of chicken soup and a smile that was all charm.


    "Evie, you''re as pale as a ghost, and you look so weak! I made you some chicken soup. Drink it up and get your strength back!"


    The noise from Walter and Evangeline''s encounter the night before had even woken Trey. Aria, who had seen it all before, had no doubts about what had happened between them.


    After what went downst night, it was a done deal. They might even pick up where they left off.


    This was the Foster family''s darling daughter, after all, a family as influential in the North as the Gordons were in the South. How could she possibly turn away such an ideal daughter-inw? Comment by Lee Laindingold: South Comment by Lee Laindingold: North Aria did not wait for a reply. She just grabbed a spoon and started dishing out the soup, mumbling to herself, "Men can be so oblivious. That is why we women have to look out for ourselves."


    Evangeline''s mind was not on the chicken soup at all.


    She grappled with a critical issue. Could Walter''s actions fromst night be considered assault? Should she call the cops and have this jerk locked up?Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The thought barely took root before Evangeline crushed it


    She did not care about Walter facing jail time. However, she had her dignity to think about


    When it came down to it, she med herself for being too weak-willed to resist Walter''s advances.


    In an instant, Aria''s soup bowl was at her side, yet Evangeline''s hand shot up to block it. The bowl, filled to


    the brim with soup, hung suspended in mid-air.


    "No thanks, but I appreciate the gesture."


    Walter watched from the sidelines, his heart sinking at Evangeline''s icy treatment of his mother, Aria. Seeing Evangeline''s wounds and her ghostly paleplexion, however, he could not just stand by. Cutting through the tension, Walter took the bowl from Aria and held it out to Evangeline once more. Mom made it just for you. Try to have a little, okay?"

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    Chapter 118


    Water''s insistence had almost beenical to Evangeline


    Really? Did she have to drink the chicken soup just because Aria had gone to all that effort?


    Once more, she raised her hand and pushed the bowl away, her strength catching Walter off guard.


    "said no, and I meant it. Besides, we''re in the middle of a divorce. In the eyes of thew, Mdm Gordon and are nothing more than strangers:"Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I


    Evangeline knew Walter was smart enough to understand this, so she spared herself the harsh words.


    Just then, Wade burst through the door, led by the Gordon family''s servant. He spotted Evangeline, pale and disheveled on the couch.


    "Miss, what''s wrong? He was at her side in a heartbeat, understanding the situation without needing a


    word


    Walter found himself staring into eyes brimming with animosity


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re the one responsible for mydy''s condition, aren''t you? Deliberate injury is a crime, and the Fosters won''t just stand by. But this isn''t just about the Fosters!" Wade cracked his knuckles, his eyes zing with fury. "This is personal With those words, he swung a fist the size of a heavyweight''s at Walter''s face.


    "No!" Evangeline''s reaction was instinctive, she rose to block him. The sudden movement tore at her wound, draining the color from her face as she


    sucked in a sharp breath Still, Walter was not hit. He deftly caught Wade''s wrist in a swift counter. It was a move that should have put him at a disadvantage.


    Evangeline could not care less about that now. All she wanted was to get away from the Gordons, and fast. Seizing the moment while Wade was caught off guard, Evangeline mustered her strength and moved to his side. "Let''s get out of here."


    Wade seemed ready to fight on. A nce back at Evangeline''s frail gaze, however, stopped him. With a frustrated sigh, he pulled back his fist, helped Evangeline to her feet, and shot a warning re at Walter." You''ll regret this, Walter. The Fosters won''t let this slide!" With Wade''s help, Evangeline climbed into the car. As he looked at her again, his eyes brimmed with concern. The more he thought about Walter, the hotter his anger burned, his cheeks flushing with fury


    In Evangeline''s mind, Wade had always been the quintessential bookish type, all poise and intellect. She had never imagined, however, that he could be so fiercely determined.


    "Let it go. It''s all behind us now. We won''t have anything to do with each other anymore." She tried to


    soothe him


    It was obvious that Wade''s sh with Walter had been all because of her.


    Would not she have been totally embarrassing the Foster family if she really got Walter in trouble for that?


    Just then, Wade spoke up, his voice filled with frustration, "We''re done with him, sure. But Miss, we can''t just let Walter get away with this! He''s gone too far, treating you like that! He''s shown he doesn''t respect you or the Foster family at all!" Chapter 118


    Evangeline had cast her gaze downward, hiding her swirling emotions.


    Walter had indeed never taken her seriously.


    When it came to the Foster family, he might have been a bit misunderstood.


    After all, Walter had found out who she really was at the same time as everyone else online, and with her previously timid behavior, it was hard to imagine her as the Foster family''s dignified little princess.


    "Wade, let''s not talk about him anymore.


    The mere thought of Walter made her heart twinge with pain. Seeing Evangeline''s pained expression, Wade took her home.

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    Chapter 119


    Back in her room, on the big, familiar bed, Evangeline-fresh from a bath and feeling utterly drained- dragged her damp hair and flopped down onto the sofa.


    The sting from earlier had lessened after cleaning up, yet it still throbbed a little.


    None of that seemed to matter at this moment, however.


    The most crucial item on her list was... The birth control pills.


    Evangeline rummaged through her bag with a jolt of urgency.


    Thest time she visited the clinic, worried that a single pack of pills might not cut it, she got two.


    Looking back, she patted herself on the back for that smart move. Otherwise, she would be scrambling to the store for it.


    As she pulled out the pillbox, her eyes caught sight of a familiar tube.


    She perked up, her brow knitting in puzzlement


    Was this not the cream Walter had given her, meant for her hurt sensitive spots?


    Twisting off the cap, she realized it was still sealed.


    She had no interest in owing Walter any favors, not even the smallest one. Nheless, the thought of another trip to the pharmacy was just too much. Heaving a deep sigh, Evangeline broke the seal, clenched her teeth, and smeared on the cream.


    The cool relief was instant, soothing her wound.


    Tucked under her nket, Evangeline felt her body unwind, but her eyes stayed fixed on the birth control pills


    Walter''s voice haunted her, stirring something inside her.


    Driven by her grandpa''s failing health, she was desperate to give him the joy of a great-grandson.


    After all that had happened between them, what if she was already expecting?


    The identity of the baby''s dad was not the issue, the real deal was getting pregnant


    If she was lucky this time, it would save her the hassle of hunting down another guy for baby-making duties. Two wins for the price of one, right? Carrying a Gordon family baby could spell trouble, however


    Forget everyone else. Walter alone would be a handful, not to mention Trey, who was just as keen on weing a new generation as Cole was Evangeline set the pills aside, a n forming in her mind.


    She would know soon enough if she was pregnant-just a month''s wait for the test.N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    Evangeline was wrestling with the thought of a possible pregnancy. If it turned out to be true, she would


    just keep it from Walter. No big deal.


    Her mind had kept drifting back to Julia, the woman who had stirred up so much trouble and then vanished without a trace from Avalon City. Despite her relentless search, Evangeline and her team had not picked up even a whisper of her whereabouts in days, leaving Eva Right when she was about to step out to clear her head, her phone buzzed. It was Roslyn, who had an uncanny knack for timing.


    "Evie, I''m off tomorrow. How about a movie night?" Roslyn''s voice came through, tinged with a yful hint.


    She quickly added, "It''s a midnight showing. Think of all the eye candy, handsome guys and gorgeous. girls everywhere!"


    Evangeline could not help but roll her eyes. "As if any of the good-looking ones at a midnight screening aren''t already taken. What''s the fun for us singletons?"


    Her marriage to Walter was a sham, hanging by a thread that was not much thicker than a piece of paper- the divorce papers, to be exact.


    Roslynughed, a bit slow on the uptake. "Oh, right. But it''s the premiere of a hot new movie, tickets are like o


    gold dust! Come on, Evie, say you''lle?"


    Evangeline had a soft spot for Roslyn''s pleading tone, no matter how much she tried to resist. "Fine, fine, I''m in," she conceded. "But no makeup, okay?"


    She still had vivid memories of thest time she had caved and dolled herself up for a night at the Whiskey Barrel Pub. This time, she would stick to her natural look. It was just a midnight movie, after all.

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    Chapter 120


    Sunnyville Cinemas was buzzing with activity, yet Evangeline stood out like a sore thumb. d in a simple gray dress, her face free of makeup, she waited impatiently at the entrance for her bestie, Roslyn.


    She kept checking her watch, and with each passing minute, her irritation grew. They were supposed to meet at 10 p.m., yet there was no sign of Roslyn even almost 30 minutester.


    Without hesitation, Evangeline whipped out her phone and called Roslyn.


    "Forget fashionablyte, you''re justte! I''ve been standing out here forever freezing my butt off," sheined. "I could''ve watched paint dry by now!"


    The crowd ebbed and flowed inside the cinema, and there she was, feeling like a total dork, her face hidden behind a mask and a cap, bracing against the chilly breeze.


    "Aw, Evie, don''t be mad!" came Roslyn''s sweet, apologetic voice over the phone. "I got caught up with my makeup... Oops, my bad! But look, I''m literally seconds away!"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Something in Roslyn''s tone did not sit right with Evangeline. It was almost as if...


    Then she heard it-the same voice, but this time not from her phone. It wasing from behind her.


    Evangeline spun and spotted Roslyn, her face perfectly made up, giving Evangeline a sheepish grin..


    Talk about perfect timing.


    oslyn spotted Evangeline''s unique getup and sprinted over, linking arms with her in a way that said ''no arguments".


    "Fast, right? Told you I''d be here in a sh!" Roslyn boasted, a triumphant twinkle in her eye.


    "Sure did," Evangeline replied, her annoyance melting into amusement.


    Evangeline tossed out ament, quickly switching gears. "You know, if you''d sped things up and arrived twenty minutes earlier, I''d be way happier."


    Roslyn slid off her oversized sunsses, the ones she used to keep her identity private, and eyed Evangeline with a hint of suspicion. "Okay, Evie, spill it. Why are you all bundled up like you''re hiding from the paparazzi? This isn''t your usual Foster family princess vibe!" Roslyn was spot on. Evangeline was definitely not rocking her typical m look. The truth, however, was something Evangeline could not share, not even with Roslyn. me it on Walter, that jerk. He never thought about the consequences.


    Evangeline''s neck was a canvas of questionable marks that not even her turtleneck could camouge. Of all days, Roslyn chose this one to drag her out!


    Left with no choice, Evangeline had resorted to this ridiculous hat. If Roslyn got even a glimpse of those marks, she would turn into detective mode and


    would not rest until she had the full scoop. "Come on, it''s the new trend to fly under the radar, especially when you''ve got a bit of fame," Evangelirie tried to deflect.


    Nowork avable now. Please check yourwork.


    Roslyn scrunched her brow. This getup is tragic, girl. It''s so not you. Ditch the hat and mask, will you?" Evangeline''s hat was not just any hat, it was one of those with a p in the back that hugged her neck like a second skin. Chapter 170.


    As Roslyn reached for the hat, Evangeline protested, "Really, it''s fine-"


    She was too slow, however. In a sh, Roslyn whipped off the hat, leaving Evangeline exposed.


    Evangeline''s lush ck hair tumbled down her back, and even though her face was mostly hidden behind a mask, it did nothing to diminish her stunning looks.


    "Why did you take off my hat?" Evangeline, who hardly ever got mad, raised her voice in protest before quickly fixing her hat back in ce.


    Little did she know, Roslyn had already seen everything Evangeline had been so carefully trying to cover up.


    As Evangeline readjusted her hat, Roslyn''s fingers brushed ever so slightly against Evangeline''s neck, right where that tell-tale mark was.

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    Chapter 121


    Evie you''re acting up weird today Are you keeping secrets from me? Roslyn''s gaze sharpened, silently waiting for Evangeline to tell the truth


    Since when have I ever kept anything from you? And with the bond we share, why would I start now? Evangeline, clueless about what was really going on, remained defiant


    Roslyn was not in a rush to call her out, though. She casually flicked the movie tickets in her hand, deftly switching topics. "The movie starts in ten minutes Let''s get to the ticket check!" At that, Evangeline let out a huge sigh of relief


    As long as Roslyn was not grilling her with that intense stare, she was content!


    While getting their tickets checked, Evangeline could not help but notice Roslyn''s outfit was extra shy today, and her makeup was on point, like she was ready for her close-up.


    If they were just here for a midnight flick to ogle some eye candy, Roslyn would not need to get all dolled


    up


    "Roslyn, is there something special about this screening?" Evangeline asked, her suspicion having grown. Was this just a spur-of-the-moment movie invite from her? "Oh, it''s no big deal." Roslyn shrugged it off.


    "A buddy of mine''s new movie just dropped, and the movie''s secret backer rented out the midnight show for the cast. My friend''s the


    star and already caught the premiere, so he passed the ticket on to me!" she said, giving the tickets a little wave. "I even snagged an extra one just so we could watch it together.


    It was just a movie ticket, but for them-one a celeb and the other a princess with a golden touch in business-


    begging for tickets seemed a bit out of ce. Could they not just book the whole theater? Evangeline did not beat around the bush with her question "Do we have to do this?"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "It''s not the same, Evie. These tickets were VIP, straight from the set! Plus.."


    Roslyn gave a sly grin, leaned in, and whispered, "Sure, the ticket''s just paper, but it''s who you sit with that


    counts!


    "I heard from a buddy that the movie''s secret sponsor ising with an entourage. And though I''m the talk of the town, I need to rub elbows with the right crowd to make it big in the movies. "That''s why I snagged you for this ticket heist, get it?"


    Evangeline nodded, finally connecting the dots


    Roslyn was aiming for the stars; mingling with the moneyed crowd could give her that extra push.


    "Why keep me in the dark? I would have mmed up to make us shine!" Evangeline had tried hard to hide every imperfection for this casual look


    "Come on, Evie, you''re a knockout no matter what. Let''s roll!"


    They entered the theater, side by side, to find it deserted. They settled into their seats and waited.


    ""Roslyn, think your big-shot backer will show?"


    Roslyn was not sure but put on a brave face. "They''ll be here. My source is solid!"


    The cinema plunged into darkness, the only lighting from the flickering movie screen.


    Shadows streamed in, parading past the glow, one by one.


    Evangeline narrowed her eyes, catching a glimpse of a familiar figure in the dim light, while Roslyn watched her with wide-eyed surprise. Was that... Could it really be Walter?

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    Chapter 122


    The thought jolted Evangeline, and she shook her head as if to clear it from a shock.


    She must have been losing it, seeing Walter''s face in every crowd.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Roslyn had already caught the troubled look on Evangeline''s face, however


    With the movie''s soundtrack humming in the background, Roslyn yfully scolded. "Spill it, who did you dash off with at the Whiskey Barrel Pub that night? Leaving me by myself in the club, you almost killed me with worry"


    Evangeline felt her irritation re up at the memory. "What about you? I left, and you did not even bother to look for me?"


    If Roslyn had just looked for her that night, Evangeline was sure she could have avoided Walter''s clutches and the injuries that followed


    ".." Roslyn''s lips turned down in a pout a hint of hurt in her voice, I had too much to drink that night. When the lights went out. I just crashed My agent had to drag me out! I called you the moment I woke up, and your assistant told me you were together, so 1 stopped worryin Okay, then


    The anger in Evangeline''s heart melted away as quickly as it hade


    Even so, Roslyn pressed or "You seem really upset Did something happen that night? Did I mess up?" Faced with such concem Evangeline softened ''It''s nothing just my no good ex swooping in to y the hero when he''s thest thing I needed"


    When they tied the knot they were both on guard During the divorce''s cool-down period, she ended up losing more than she bargained for both her heart and her peace of mind


    Evangeline was not in the mood for a heart-to-heart with Roslyn, so when she caught a glimpse of Roslyn''s curious look, she quickly gestured toward the screen, "Look, the movie''s starting?" That did the trick-Roslyn''s attention was now on the big screen.


    Evangeline? She could not care less. Her mind was swarming with images of a certain someone. What were the odds? Just her luck to run into Walter at a movie theater With that thought, she seized the chance to slip away to the restroom


    The theater''s glow revealed a truth Evangeline had not noticed before the once empty rows were packed, save for a few scattered empty seats. There, lurking in a shadowy corner, was Walter, his features flickering in and out of the dim light Evangeline''s heart skipped a beat Was her luck really this rotten? It seemed the world was too small when it came to bumping into


    her least favorite person. The mere thought of Walter''s face brought back flood of his shenanigans. No way she could let her beautiful night be ruined by a nun-in with him? Was it toote to make a run for it?


    As she pondered her escape, thinking of Roslyn waiting back at their spot, Evangelise hunched over and hurried out of the theater Chapter 122


    What she did not realize was that the moment she stepped away, a guy with dreadlocks and a punk vibe took a seat beside Roslyn. "Roslyn, who was that just now 7"


    now...?"


    Roslyn''s focus shifted in an instant. The guy was her friend, Matthew Chale, a singer with killer vocals and a genius for music theory.


    It was a real shame. Despite churning out hundreds of new tracks, the songwriting just was not cutting it, and the coborators were a bit hit-or-miss. The result was a career that was simmering on a low me, never quite catching fire. "Hey, remember that rockstar lyricist friend I told you about?" Roslyn''s eyes sparkled with excitement at the mention of her friend.


    "The one who tossed off a few lyrics for your debut and shot you straight to stardom?" It was no surprise that everyone was buzzing about it. Roslyn had been raving about her enigmatic lyricist buddy for ages, and Matthew, being a kindred spirit in the songwriting world, was all ears.

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    Chapter 123


    "That''s the one!"


    You were going to introduce me, remember? Roslyn, my savior, could you maybe..."


    The way he drew out the end of his sentence was tinged with urgency, but it was clear he was downright thirsty for talent


    Roslyn had watched Matthew fret over finding a decent lyricist for years and figured it was time to lend a hand. So, she decided to set up an intro during a casual movie outing. Seeing his eagerness, Roslyn did not beat around the bush. "I was nning to introduce you guys anyway. Getting her to write for you, however, is not going to be a walk in the park. "Let mey it out straight: I will make the intro, and the rest is on you. Whether you can convince her to pen some lyrics, that is your gig."


    "I get it. If the work is good, she can name her price!"


    Matthew was not shy about pouring money into his music, especially when it came to a lyricist with serious chops.


    s...N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    Roslyn waggled her finger in front of him. "My friend is the darling of the Foster family. Do you really think she''s short on cash?"


    The crowd did not realize the bombshell they had just dropped. The whispers around them started to pick


    1. up.


    "I knew I recognized her! That''s Evangeline, the Foster family''s princess who''s all over the trending news!" An excited voice cut through the buzz. "Can I be this lucky? To be in the same movie theater as Ms. Evangeline, the one you only see in the headlines? I''m over the moon!"


    Roslyn heard the chatter and instinctively pped a hand over her mouth.


    Had she identally dragged Evangeline into a mess?


    The real shocker, however, was still toe.


    "Get this. Do you know Mr. Walter Gordon? He''s Evangeline''s... Well, now probably her ex-husband. He''s here today too!" the person announced with a dramatic ir. Roslyn sucked in a breath of cold air.


    That jerk Walter was here too?


    Matthew, seeing Roslyn''s reaction, did not even dare to take a deep breath.


    The surrounding crowd, ever eager to stir the pot, kept the rumors swirling.


    Can you believe these two, practically divorced, are in the same movie theater? What are the odds?"


    "Could Mr. Walter Gordon havee here just for Evangeline?"


    "Right? When has he, the cinema''s rarest guest from the high-profile Gordon family, ever shown up here? Only Evangeline Foster, the darling princess of the Foster n, could draw him out. Are the rumors true that they''re patching things up?"


    "What are you even saying? They arrived separately and didn''t sit together. It''s clear as day that Mr. Walter Gordon is kicking himself over the divorce. He''s on a mission, digging around for any news on Ms. Evangeline, dead set on winning back the heartthrob!" Evangeline''s return to the theater was met with such a frenzy of wild gossip that her legs nearly gave out from under her.


    She had only stepped out to the restroom, and in that blink, the theater''s buzz had taken a wild turn. The chatter swelled, overpowering even the movie''s dialogue, each rumor more oundish than thest.


    What on earth had happened in her short absence?


    Evangeline hurried back to her seat, her eyesnding on the man next to Roslyn.


    She figured he was anotherter, not worth a second nce. Gently, she tugged on Roslyn''s sleeve." What''s going on? Why''s everyone talking about me?"

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    Chapter 124


    Evangeline was aware that her notoriety had spiked after her split w walter, thanks to Julia, the deceptive charmer. It was absurd, however, to think that a quick restroom break would turn her into the talk of the town.


    Roslyn let out a sly chuckle "Before we dive into that. Evie, let me introduce you to a friend."


    Of course, she was not just doing this for Matthew''s sake-she was really trying to stall for time.


    With Evangeline looking on in surprise, Roslyn tugged Matthew to the front


    "Meet my friend Matthew Chale He''s got killer vocals and is a Binger Roslyn beamed.


    "Hi there. Ms. Evangeline." Matthew said, offering his hand confidently


    "Hello, Mr. Chale." Evangeline responded, shaking his hand with a polite nod before quickly letting go.


    Evangeline was more preupied with the sudden change in the room''s mood than with this Matthew who had popped up out of nowhere


    Unbeknownst to her, someone in theer had snapped a perfect shot of her handshake with Matthew.


    Bathed in the glow of the screen, Evangeline''s natural beauty shone through her face without a trace of m��keup yet captivating.


    Her clothes were nothing special, but her stunning figure made everything she wore look effortlessly chic To Matthew, Evangeline was like a fairy-so-ordinary, yet so breathtakingly beautiful. The ce was crawling with good-looking people. However, when Matthewid eyes on Evangeline, he was spellbound.


    His heart raced in a way it never had before, his cheeks feeling unusually warm


    Clutching his chest, as if to keep his heart from jumping out, Matthew had an epiphany


    He was head over heels.


    It was not because of who Evangeline was or that she was the lyricist he desperately needed. He was utterly enchanted by her, by the sheer allure of her presencel


    Matthew weaved past Roslyn and sat down right next to Evangeline "Ms Evangeline, what do you like to do for fun? You know, like jamming to tunes?"


    The question blindsided Evangeline, as unexpected as Matthew''s burst of enthusiasm, and it hung awkwardly in the air She blinked, a bit startled.


    Realizing he hade on too strong, Matthew rushed to make amends. "Oops, sorry about that I just got


    uper stoked to see you. My bad foring on too strong


    His apology was genuine, and Evangeline could not really hold it against him


    His words had sessfully shifted her focus, however


    "I''m pretty into music Sometimes I even dabble in writing lyrics, just for locks Chapter 124


    Remembering the hits Roslyn had belted out, Evangeline felt her just for kicks'' was a bit of a humble brag. Truth be told, she had simply scribbled down some words while listening to Roslyn''stest album demos. "Oh yeah? What kind of beats do you dig?"


    Their chat about music took off, and they were quickly lost in the conversation.


    However, in a corner, a pair of eyes watching Evangeline sharpened with intensity.


    Who was that guy, anyway? Why was Evangeline chatting him up for so long?N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Walter was seething, his anger simmering with no outlet, and he clenched his fists out of sight.


    As the secret backer of the movie, he had to make an appearance to support his own investment. He had even booked the whole midnight show for some alone time. Who would have thought that the tickets he had handed out as a favor would draw such a crowd?


    There was also one surprise he had not counted on-Evangeline.


    In the dimness, the cold aura around Walter grew even more intense.

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    Chapter 125Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Evangeline did not make her move until the woman in question rose from her seat again. She trailed behind, stepping out into the corridor.


    The hallway outside the cinema was bathed in dirn light, and Evangeline''s face was a picture difort. Words failed her.


    of


    She and Matthew had plenty to chat about, sure, but they had only just met. His over-the-top enthusiasm was overwhelming, leaving Evangeline struggling to keep up.


    With Roslyn watching, she could not just brush him off without causing a scene. Thus, she put on a brave. face and muddled through. Eventually, with no other options, she ducked out for another escape to the restroom.


    The sight of the restroom sign was like a beacon of hope. Relief washed over her.


    Roslyn, of all people, knew how much Evangeline detested these social dances. She would probably use


    the chance to fill Matthew in.


    So, Evangeline took her time. Just as she stepped into the stall, before the door could even click shut, a sudden force pushed her inside, and the lock snapped closed behind her. "You..." Her eyes flew up, wide and unprepared, to meet Walter''s fiery, red-stained gaze.


    "Walter? What are you doing here?"


    Her shock gave way to incredulity, and then to a biting question.


    "You do realize this is the women''s bathroom, right? What''s a guy like you doing here? Are you some kind of creep? I had no idea you enjoyed touring women''s restrooms." "Evangeline." Walter''s voice was a low rumble, and with a swift move, he pinned her against the wall, her slight frame unable to move.


    Evangeline''s spine tingled with a cold dread as Walter''s voice, heavy with barely contained fury, reached


    her ears.


    "Do you really think it''s a good time to tick me off?"


    He paused, the words hanging in the air, heavy with unspoken threats.


    "What''s wrong with it? Walter, you wouldn''t dare do anything here, would you?"


    They were in the movie theater''s restroom, of all ces-a public spot!


    The only reason Walter hadered her was because the midnight screening had been so sparsely attended.


    "You''re still legally my wife, no divorce papers. What''s stopping me?"


    Walter''s scoff echoed as he effortlessly pinned Evangeline''s hands above her head with


    one hand, while the other gently tilted her chin upward. His thumb, smooth and firm, lingered on her lips. "Such a pretty mouth. So, what were you and that nauseating guy chatting about for so long?" Nauseating guy?


    Die


    +29 BONUS


    Matthew''s face fashent through txangeline z mund


    "What are you even taking about? Nauseating qay? mes a singer? She''s in the music but, get ��7


    guy?


    "Wait, how did you know we taikant for so long? Walter, don''t tell me you''re actually like everyone says, regretting and divorce and trying to win me back?


    Evangeline knew that might be a gusitality for someone else, but not Water No way!


    Still. The way he was acting has at a bezy, and she could not help but voice her thoughts.


    She just had tu koow what Waller genuinely thought about her


    "Chase alum you? What a gratian anu puter''s gras tight on her chun, a ser chilling to the Bone Tour divprox et tous yet, Evangeline You Stanot even think about beni aying mar

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    Chapter 126


    What Walter did not realize was that his words cut through Evangeline like a de, piercing her heart.


    She had fooled herself into thinking Walter was just jealous because he saw her chatting with Matthew. She even dared to hope, maybe because they had been close befor that she still meant something to him


    What was the truth, though?


    It was all in her head. Walter''s behavior was driven only by his fear of being betrayed!


    A wave of anger washed over her, and with a strength she did not know she had, Evangeline wrenched his hand away from her chin. "Don''t act like I''ve been unfaithful. Even if I had been, what could you possibly do to me? Walter, remember this: Once the divorce cooling-off period is over, we''re nothing to each other!


    She wished she could just grab the divorce papers and m them into Walter''s face, telling him to get lost for good.


    "Oh really? Evangeline, you''re still putting up a fight when I''ve got the upper hand? Should Imend your courage, or should I say you''re just dumb?"


    Walter''sugh was dark as he reached out for her.


    With their past encounters, he knew exactly where to touch her, and he did not hesitate.


    Before long, he heard the breathy sighs that he took such pleasure in.


    "If you''d always been this sweet, I would have really adored you." His voice was soft, yet his eyes were cold as ice, and the smile on his lips could not hide the frost.


    Evangeline''s voice, tinged with a hint of hurt, broke through the silence, "Didn''t you adore me before?"


    She had been the picture of obedience, never daring to cross Walter''s wishes, bending over backward to win the favor of her mother-inw Aria, even at the cost of her ownfort. What, then, had all her efforts earned her?


    Tears threatened to spill from her eyes as a burning sensation took hold. It was as if her very soul was on


    Nheless, the pride of the Foster family''s darling princess would not let her show weakness to this jerk, not for a single second.


    Elsewhere, Roslyn had been waiting in the movie theater for ages with no sign of Evangeline. She tried calling, yet there was no answer-Evangeline had left her phone behind.


    The buzz among the other moviegoers was that Walter had shown up, too.


    A shiver ran down Roslyn''s spine.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Evangeline had been gone too long. Had Walter cornered her somewhere?


    Even with her own influence, Roslyn knew she was no match for Walter Gordon of the Gordon family.


    Calling James directly was a risky move. If Walter had not stopped Evangeline, she would be stirring up trouble over nothing.


    Keeping her cool, Roslyn reassured Matthew before slipping out of the theater and making a beeline for the restroom.


    Much to her relief, she found a group of imposing bodyguards stationed at the door, one of whom she recognized as Evangeline''s personal protector.


    Roslyn''s anxiety eased. She approached the bodyguard and asked urgently, "Has Ms. Evangeline gone in here?"


    Unbeknownst to her, the bodyguard knew Roslyn and responded with due respect, "Ms. Shaw, could you please check on her for us? She went in and hasn''te out." The guards were basically pleading. They were dudes, way too awkward to step into the women''s restroom, no matter how worried they were.


    "Are you sure she''s in there? Okay, I''m on it," Roslyn had said before dashing in.


    "Evangeline, you in here?!" Roslyn shouted as she stormed through the restroom.


    "Evangeline?" she called again, a hint of worry in her voice.


    She banged on each stall door, trying to find her friend. "Evangeline,e out or I''m going to be mad!"

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    hapter 127


    It was the midnight showing, so the restroom was practically a ghost town. Roslyn checked stall after stall -nothing but echoen.


    What Roslyn did not know was that Evangeline was trapped, just one stall over, her heart pounding in her chest. She had heard Roslyn''s calls but before she could yell back. Walter''s hand was mped over her mouth, silencing her desperate cries. Evangeline fought like a wildcat, but Walter''s grip was unbreakable, his hands like iron against her lips.


    The stall was too big and Walter had her pinned down, leaving her with only one leg free, desperately trying to kick the door to make some noise, to signal Roslyn. It was not enough, however


    She was about to lose hope when Roslyn''s voice grew nearer. ''Please, just a few more steps, Evangeline prayed silently, you''re so close to finding me.


    Then, Walter''s chilling whisper slithered into her ear, a dark promise that sent shivers down her spine. "Do you really think Roslyn showing up is going to save you? Don''t bother trying: you''re not getting away tonight."


    Walter was overpoweringly strong, pinning Evangeline down with his entire body, his hand mped over her mouth to silence her cries, while his other hand roamed over her with a predatory ease. "Mmph mmmh!" "Let me go!"


    Evangeline squirmed and twisted, trying to escape Walter''s grasp, but her efforts seemed futile.


    His touch had grown bolder and more viting, and he was on the verge of crossing an unforgivable line


    whenProperty belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Out of nowhere, a ringtone erupted, making Walter''s body jerk to a halt, and he stopped everything he was doing


    Roslyn had been looking for Evangeline for what felt like ages, thinking maybe the bodyguard had just missed seeing Evangeline step out. She was about to head back out the door when the ringing caught her attention.


    She dashed toward the source of the sound, the urgency clear in her steps.


    Behind the door, Evangeline, her mouth still covered, had stopped struggling under Walter''s menacing look


    it was the sound of Roslyn''s rapid footsteps, not Walter''s re, that gave her hope and made her stop


    Walter released her and fished out his phone to take a call.


    "Hello, is this Mr. Walter Gordon?"


    "Speaking Who''s this?"


    "I''m a doctor from the urology department at Avalon City General Hospital. I


    noticed you had an appointment with me but never showed up. Is everything okay? If getting here is a hassle, or if you''re worried about the stigma ofing in, I can ask our director about making a house call. Your privacy is my top priority! The man''s voice was rugged, his words a mix of sweet-talking and bargaining.


    "No thanks, I''m good."


    Walter ended the call in a sh, and when he looked up again, his eyes zed with fury.


    "It was..." "It was you, wasn''t it?''


    Only Evangeline would have dared to sign him up for the embarrassing trip to the men''s health department!


    Before he could finish his rant, a loud banging on the door interrupted him.


    Roslyn''s voice, livid and charged, broke through the chaos. "Walter, is Evangeline with you? Don''t push it! The Gordons aren''t pushovers, and neither are the Fosters! If this turns into a brawl, it''s going to be bad news for everyone!"

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    Chapter 128


    The bodyguards stationed outside caught every word of Roslyn''s outbu


    Suddenly, a group of muscr men stormed into the restroom, pulling Roslyn to the side. The head bodyguard stepped forward with a stern reminder.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, we''re here to ensure thedy''s safety. You''re putting us in a tough spot. Let her go now, or I''ll have to step in!"


    Walter could not shake the image of Evangeline''s face, the memory of her snidements about him needing a urologist boiling his blood. He was so ticked off that he could not bear to look at her one more second. He had not even waited for the bodyguards to kick the door open; he did it himself. As he was about to step through, however, he spotted a guy with dreadlocks and punk-


    rock vibes standing among the bodyguards. The guy had looked all kinds of worried, his face scrunched up in anxiety.


    Walter''s eyes narrowed to slits, his gaze cutting like aser.


    If his memory served him right, this had been the dude who had hit it off with Evangeline!Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    With everyone watching, Walter beckoned Matthew with a flick of his finger. "Hey you,e here."


    Matthew was clueless about what was happening. Why was this guy, who seemed out to get Evangeline, calling him over? Out of respect for Walter''s status, however, he stepped up.


    "Were you the one cozying up to my wife earlier, trying to charm her?"


    Walter was seething just thinking about it.


    Matthew paused, then replied with brutal honesty, "I do have feelings for Ms. Evangeline, but I absolutely have not been ''trying to charm'' her. She and I sharemon interests, and it''s perfectly normal for


    us to have good conversations. As for what may happen in the future, if I''m fortunate enough to win her favor, then I''ll do everything I can to make her happy!"


    Ever since Matthew hadid eyes on Evangeline, he had tossed aside his quest for a lyricist, only wanting to really get to know her.


    When Evangeline was not around, he did not have a single other thought, just focused on crafting the perfect love confession.


    He never, in a million years, thought he would blurt it out like this!


    Evangeline never saw iting. They met for the first time, and she had already cast her spell over Matthew-an unexpected bonus! The firmer Matthew''s derations became, the more Evangeline''s excitement bubbled over, and the sweeter her triumph tasted. She shot Walter a smug look that screamed, "Notice this? I''ve got plenty of admirers, and each one''s a step up from you!''


    She was clueless to the fact that Matthew''s bold move had just poked the bear. Walter''spetitive side was fully awake. What was this guy thinking? Hitting on his wife right in front of him? That was practically a death wish!


    Walter would have taught him a lesson right then and there, had they not both been so obviously clueless.


    Walter yed it cool. "Is that so?" he said, his smile loaded with unspoken words. He lifted Evangeline''s chin and kissed her, a light touch that said everything "Too bad she''s already taken-she''s my wife." He made it look easy. Only he knew the effort it took to keep Evangeline''s silent protests in check, to pull off this showstopper in front of her admirer.


    In the next heartbeat, Walter''s re cut through Matthew like a knife. "Buddy, you think you can mess with what''s mine and not pay a price? With that, Walter let go of Evangeline and spun on his heel, walking as if he owned the ce Chapter 129

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 129

    Walter''s mood soured as the head bodyguard brushed past him. The guy was a thorn in his side, and Waher vowed to make him vanish from Avalon City for good


    The drama in the restroom wrapped up, and the bodyguard, Matthew, and the rest of the men knew it was time to clear out


    Evangeline, totally spent from the ordeal, slumped against the cubicle wall, panting hard. "Walter is the worst!" she fumed.


    She felt like she could explode with frustration because of him,


    Meanwhile, Roslyn, who had just snapped out of her daze, blurted out without thinking. "Evie, about the


    movie


    "Forget it, Roslyn, I''m heading home."


    Thest thing she wanted was to sit through a movie


    Evangeline figured it just was not her day. She had not checked the horoscope before leaving home. which must have been why she kept bumping into Walter, the walking disaster


    "Okay, I''ll walk you home." Roslyn understood where Evangeline wasing from. She had suggested the movie just to keep Evangeline out a bit longer, to help her chill out


    However, if Evangeline needed some alone time, Roslyn, being the best friend she was, would not push it. "Oh, should we let Matthew know? He was hoping you''d help him with some song lyrics!" Roslyn never thought Matthew would fall for Evangeline so fast.


    She had got to follow through when she helped someone. Knowing what Matthew needed, she felt she should have passed on the message.


    Evangeline paused to think


    Matthew had had her back in that mess earlier, which was helpful.


    Walter was the type to hold a grudge. If he had made good on his threats and had gone after Matthew because she had helped with the lyrics, would not that have put Matthew in the line of fire?


    ''Let''s not Roslyn, can you apologize to him for me? If there''s anything else I can do to help, I''m there." Debts of gratitude definitely needed to be repaid, yet she could at least have waited until the ink dried on her divorce papers from Walter A1 Avalon City General Hospital''s urology clinic, a patient unlike any other had walked in.


    He was a tower of a man, decked out in sleek ck casual wear, with oversized sunsses that nearly swallowed his face,


    This guy had the red carpet rolled out for him at the hospital. The hospital had to postpone the appointments of other patients to amodate his arrival.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Chapter


    He had a one-track mind. Evangeline told him to get checked out by urology, right? So he was going to get every test done and see if there was any truth to her concerns?


    Walter, being the VIP he was, breezed through all the tests and got his results in no time


    He nced over the numbers and figures, then passed the report to his assistant with a smug grin.


    Meanwhile, Evangeline was pouring her energy into her work.


    She had just settled down with her afternoon tea when her assistant Wade came in with a delivery.


    Evangeline paused, her coffee cup mid-air. "I haven''t ordered anything onlely. Why would I get a package?"


    Inspecting the parcel with a little shake, Wade said, "It''s got your name on it, and it''s local too. Seems like some kind of document


    The word document had piqued Evangeline''s interest, and she ripped open the package without hesitation


    She pulled out a stack of papers, and there it was, Walter''s name in bold, impossible to miss, right on the front page

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    Chapter 130


    Evangeline''s eyes narrowed as she read the title.


    Male Genitourinary Examination Report. Patient: Walter.]


    Evangeline''s coffee went airborne in a surprise spit-take, narrowly missing the stack of papers on her desk. Seriously, Walter truly went to the urologist?


    She only booked that appointment to rib him a little, never thinking he would actually go through with it. Hey, since he did, she might as well sneak a peek at the results.


    She had barely cracked open the report when she caught Wade'' trying to snoop. "Ahem! I''m good here, Wade. Why don''t you grab some lunch?" she said, shooing him out the door.


    With Wade gone, she flipped through the report, her cheeks turning 50 shades of red with each page. By the time she mmed her fist down on thest page, her face was a full- blown tomato. She had just wanted to check if Walter was healthy, not get the lowdown on his, well, everything-size, performance, even his swimmers stats!


    Evangeline did not hesitate, dialing Walter''s number.


    He picked up instantly, his voice oozing smugness. "So, Evangeline, impressed with the read?"


    She could practically hear his grin through the phone. The nerve! Her irritation reignited like a rocket.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you really went out of your way to mail me this... Trying to prove a point?" she snapped.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Walter''s reply was infuriatingly calm. "You''re the one who suggested the urologist, right? Even booked it for me. Wouldn''t want to disappoint my wife by not showing up." She could almost see his shrug.


    Evangeline, on the other end of the line, squirmed with guilt. She had not gotten his okay before making that decision, but that did not give him the right to lord it over her!


    "I just wanted to make sure you weren''t sick with that check-up. But the results came back a little too perfect, and now I''m starting to wonder," she said. "Are you trying to prove you''re totally fine with that report?"


    Evangeline snorted as if a thought had just struck her. "What''s there to prove, anyway? The truth is more convincing than any argument. Mr. Three-Seconds, your live performance was quite the show. Instead of ying these games, you should just pay me to keep quiet. Imagine how bad it would be for you if I spilled your secrets after we split, and you couldn''t find anyone new."


    The infamous three-second fiasco was Walter''s Achilles'' heel.


    Evangeline''s brazen mention of it was like teasing a tiger. Surprisingly, Walter did not seem to care.


    "You enjoyed it too, right? Forget the duration. As long as it was pleasurable, that''s what matters..." Walter smirked.


    That did it.


    apter 130


    Evangeline hung up furiously, thinking only Walter could be so unabashedly vile.


    Then, a sly smile crept across her face. If Walter was not bothered by his ''three-second'' blunder, well, she had other ns.


    Over at Gordon Group''s headquarters, David, the CEO''s assistant, stepped out of the office with a nagging sense that something was off. His colleagues were too quiet, too focused on their work, as if hiding something just beneath the surface.


    When David spun, he spotted small clusters of coworkers huddled together, whispering. The moment they noticed his gaze, they snapped back to their tasks, pretending to be engrossed in their work. This was not the first time David had stumbled upon such secretive hudo

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 131

    Chapter 131


    con on it the beam about thetest office dram it''s no fun when you leave me out of the loop"


    David''s voice had been persuasive, yet there was an odd almost naughtymand to it


    The man''s face went white for a moment. Then, as if stuck by a thought, he grinned bashfully


    Seeing David''s growing impatience, he leaned in and whispered as if he were sharing state secrets,


    This is sort of embarassing so I''m not going to just burt it out David, head over to the chill zone, second magazine rack on the left, and grabi today''s morning paper. Check out the entertainment section''s front page story, and you''ll be all caught He finished with a flourish, "Trust me, you won''t regret it!"


    T


    David scowled. "Sounds like a hassle. What if I do regret it?"


    The guy made a dramatic slicing motion across his neck, then tousled his hair, as if he were about to deliver some earth-shattering news.


    David was not into pointless tasks, the guy''s air of mystery and confidence was too intriguing to ignore


    10 minutester, David burst into the CEO''s office like a whirlwind.


    Watter gave him a look of pure annoyance and warned him without missing a beat, "David, this better be


    goodThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Davidposed himself, pulled out a newspaper with a flourish, andid it before Walter with exaggerated reverence. "Boss, I can''t even Just read it for yourself"


    Watter eyed him, puzzled, then grabbed the paper, with David''s timid voice in the background,


    Entertainment section"


    Walter flipped to the page, and there it was, in bold, impossible-to-miss letters.


    Walter Gordon of the Gordon family, impotent?


    Him? No way!


    Walter''s scowl deepened. He was about to dive back into the article when he caught David''s searching look David quickly wiped the smirk off his face and put on a look of outrage


    "These tabloid reporters are out of control, writing whatever they want. The newspapers had some nerve, picking a fight with Gordon Group. Boss, we''ve got to teach them a lesson this time!"


    Walter rubbed his chin thoughtfully and asked, "How do you suggest we do that?"


    "Well, we could hold a press conference "To squash the rumors


    David''s words, however, were cut short by the stone-cold stare from his boss.


    Walter''s voice was tight with frustration, "Tabloid hacks make up stores all the time. If we call a press conference to deny the rumors, wouldn''t we just be drawing more attention to them? David, are you sure you''re cut out for this job?


    Did he, the CEO, really need to point out something so obvious?


    David, however, stood his ground, "With Mr. Walter Gordon''s reputation, even if they make up stories, no one would believe them!"


    Facing Walter''s silent but intense stare, David let out a forced chuckle. "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve still got work to finish... I''ll head out now, alright?"


    After David had left, he carefully closed the office door behind him.


    Walter''s gaze returned to the newspaper, his expression darker than burnt charcoal. The headline had been even more cutting than the article itself, a real attention-grabber.


    The tabloid had detailed every aspect of Walter''s hospital visits, which doctor he had seen, and then capped it off with a particrly explosive question.


    Walter, in the prime of his life, could not believe he actually went to see a urologist. The idea had been so ridiculous it almost made him burst outughing with frustration. He knew without a shadow of a doubt that this had been Evangeline''s handiwork.

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    Chapter 132


    At the Forter Group''s headquarters, Walter stormed in his hand thu he had demanded. "Where''s Evangeline? I need to see her, now!


    down on the reception desk as


    Their past rtionship wasmon knowledge among the Foster Group staff


    The receptionist, recognizing Walter instantly, hesitantly pointed him in the right direction, bending the rules. "Sixteenth floor, conference room. Just head straight down the hall and turn left for the private elevator


    In the conference room, Evangeline was busy directing Wade to hand out documents to the executives. She was just about to introduce a promising new talent she had worked hard to recruit when a loud bang echoed from the door.


    Evangeline did not budge from her seat, only ncing up toward themotion


    Walter, d in a sleek ck trench coat, was making a beeline for the room.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you can''t go in there..." The young assistant, spotting Evangeline, looked like she was on the verge of tears.


    With a dismissive wave, Evangeline sent her away, though she was secretly impressed by the assistant''s guts. She had to remember to give her more opportunities to shine.


    At that moment, all eyes were locked on the unfolding drama between Walter and Evangeline


    Walter''s gaze was locked onto the man seated beside Evangeline, unblinking and intense


    The guy had pale skin, a strong, determined face, and features that were strikingly defined. His eyes were a brilliant blue, reminiscent of the clear sky, and his golden locks had a natural curl to them. He was tall and statuesque, with a ck suit that draped over his frame, managing to look effortlessly stylish rather than rigid.


    Was this not the kind of heartthrob Evangeline always fell for?


    Had Evangeline, fresh from his bed, already be so restless, brazenly cozying up to another guy right here in the office?


    Walter clenched his jaw, fighting back a surge of anger as he stood rigidly by Evangeline''s side. Hist piercing gaze flicked over to the man with a loaded look. "I''ve never seen this guy before, Evangeline. Aren''t you going to introduce me?" He was itching to see how Evangeline would exin this man to her own husband.


    Evangeline''s eyes narrowed slightly as she took in the man beside her, a flicker of confusion crossing her


    mind.


    She knew exactly why Walter was at the Foster Group headquarters, and his behavior was no surprise to her.


    What was with the hostility, though? Was it just a sh of vibes?


    Still, Walter wanted an introduction, and she was not one to disappoint.


    Chap 532This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Evangeline rose to her feet''s intended to let him settle in and learn about our operations before making formal introductions, but since you''ve brought it up, let us do this now


    She gestured gracefully toward the man beside her "This is Hank Tarp, the new CED I have recruited for ourpany and an old friend


    Then, with a sum of her hand, the indicated to Walter, Hank, this is..."


    Before Evangeline could fish her introduction, Hank out her off


    "No need for formalities Ms Evangeline Everyone knows Mr. Walter Gordon from the Gordon family. famed for ruling the worth just as the Fosters do the South Who wouldn''t recognize him? Comment by Lee Landingoid South Comment by Lee Landingold North Hank, reached out with a confident gin, offering his hand to Walter "Mr Waiter Gordon, a pleasure to meet you for the first time I''m looking forward to learning from you."


    "Much appreciated Watters words were polite, but his handshake was a vice grip


    As a new CEO who had the guts to cut off Evangeline in front of all these executives, with Evangeline calling him by his first natte so warmly, Waiter was convinced there was something more between them.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 133

    Chapter 133


    He could not let this opportunity to assert himself pass by, could he


    Walter had totally misjudged the situation.


    He nned to use the handshake to show his strength, but as soon as he applied pressure, Hank''s force came back at him. Secondster, Walter was clenching his teeth, trying to hold on, while Hank was all smiles andposure. Then, Hank eased his grip, their hands parting.


    Walter fought the urge to massage his sore hand and sheered at Evangeline, "Never would have guessed, Evangeline. Since when did you have an old sweetheart?" "What are you bbering about?" Evangeline''s face flushed with fury.


    Evangeline and Hank had been inseparable since their childhood days in the South, having shared a life side by side for over five years. Their bond was unbreakable.


    Upon catching wind that Evangeline was facing tough times, Hank did not think twice. He rushed to her side, his loyalty touching her heart deeply.


    Walter, the lowlife, had always been quick to put others down, his words against Hank reaching a new low.


    "bbering, am I?" Walter''s eyes narrowed as a sneer spread across his face. "So, you''re over that singer fromst week and onto someone new?"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He took a step closer, eyeing Hank with disdain.


    "Wow, switching it up. I cannot say your taste has improved, though. He''s just another pretty boy, isn''t he? Seriously, could you not aim a little higher? Last time, I caught you with someone who was all about blurring the lines, and now what? You have adopted a new style, Hank, with his features, had a striking look that was both strong and soft at the same time.


    Walter''s jab at Hank''s ambiguous appearance had been downright cruel.


    Evangeline was ready to fire back. However, Hank was quicker. He gently pulled her aside, stepped up. and faced Walter head-on.


    "Unless I''m mistaken, Ms. Evangeline is your ex-wife, Mr. Walter Gordon. Isn''t it a bit cold for a man to trash-talk his ex-wife''s choices like that?"


    Walter, already seething, found himself being challenged by Hank in front of an audience, enduring a mix of direct and indirect insults. As a member of the prestigious Gordon family, he was unustomed to such disrespect. His anger surged, his face flushing with fury "We''re still married, for crying out loud! And who do you think you are? Even if we split up, it''s none of your business to butt in!"


    The air crackled with tension between them. Evangeline caught a glimpse of Hank''s fist, balled up tight in his suit sleeve, and nudged him gently, "Hank, go take care of something else, will you?"


    "Ms. Evangeline..." Hank shot her a worried look. However, her steady gaze reassured him, and though he


    was reluctant, he finally left the conference room.


    The roomful of savvy executives caught the drift and one by one, they discreetly made their exits.


    The meeting had wrapped up early, and Evangeline led Walter back to her office, sinking into her chair with a sense ofmand. She rested one hand against her forehead and warned him without much fuss, "Walter, this is Foster Group, not a yground! If you''re just he That was when Walter really took her in.


    She was rocking a sharp ck suit that hugged her figure just right, her long hair flowed behind her like a dark waterfall, and those deep ck eyes of hers twinkled like stars, sharp enough to cut through anything. He had never seen her in boss mode before.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 134

    Chapter 134


    Walter was floored. The Evangeline he remembered, always so eager to please, bending over backward to charm him, desperate to start a family with him, was an authoritative CEO.


    A newspaper smacked down on the desk with a thud.


    Walter demanded, his voice loaded with challenge. "What''s the deal here? Out with it. Evangeline, you know I could sue you for trash-talking me like this in front of everyone, right? It''s called defamation." His- warning came with a legal edge to his voice. Evangeline just smirked, unimpressed, "Oh, so you can''t handle a little criticism?"


    His ipetence?


    Walter''s temper was ignited like a match. "You think you don''t know what I''m capable of?" He was practically snarling the words, but then his anger took a sharp turn into a sly grin. "If you''re questioning my skills, I''d be happy to give you a little demonstration right here, righ Walter looked like he was gearing up for a showdown, making a move to grab Evangeline. She sidestepped him with ease, her voice dripping with scorn, "Sorry, Mr. Walter Gordon, if your ''skills'' are what left me sore, I''ll pass on a second round." She gestured dismissively toward the door. "If that''s all, Mr. Walter Gordon, you can see yourself out."


    "I haven''t even shown you what I can do yet. How can I leave?" Walter''s smirk was back, his teeth a neat, predatory sh in his grin, his presence chilling. In a sh, he lunged at her like a wolf on the hunt, pinning Evangeline against the desk. Before she could push him away, his lips were on hers, hot and demanding.


    As his hand reached for her, a knock at the office door jolted them, Startled, Evangeline reacted instinctively, biting down on Walter''s lip. She felt him freeze and only then realized what she had done. By the time she let go, it was toote- Walter''s lip was bleeding. Just then, a voice from outside the door called out with concern.


    "Ms. Evangeline? Are you there?"


    That voice rang a bell.


    11


    It had belonged to the eager assistant who had tried to corner Walter in the conference-room earlier. Evangeline took a quick look around.


    Walter was a mess. His clothes were wrinkled, his lip was split, and a thin line of blood trailed down his neck. Anyone walking in would have jumped to the wrong conclusion in a heartbeat.


    She and Walter were on the brink of officially being exes, however.


    To sidestep any gossip, Evangeline acted fast, sliding her chair back to reveal a hiding spot under her desk.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, mind ducking down there for a second?"Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Walter eyed the space and, in a rare show of agreeableness, squeezed himself under the desk.


    Evangeline was stunned. Maybe the phrase ''no good'' had sparked a flicker of decency in him. Quickly, she caught on to why he was ying along.


    *Come in!" She settled back into her chair, smoothed out her blouse, and faked interest in some paperwork.


    The assistant waltzed in with a pile of papers. That was when Walter''s hand snuck out from under the desk, silently making bold moves on Evangeline.


    She felt the heat from his touch and was about to lose it when she noticed the assistant, clueless and heading deeper into the room.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 135

    Ms. Evangeline, I''ve got all the documents you asked for right here..."


    Evangeline''s heart skipped a beat. She mped a hand over her mouth just in time to stifle a gasp.


    Walter was beyond infuriating; his hand wandering where it had no business being!


    "If you need anything else, just buzz me on the inte."


    "Sure, thanks a lot."


    Evangeline, demagpa no Vang her cunt megling the beat of mount anmal. She never thought waiting for an


    when a team gununding and totally unique experience, angeline dumped into her chair, feeling the dampwas that told the own story of her longing


    Out of nowhere, she was parked from bar chair to the foor Wather''s heavy, muscr frame was on her in an instant careful not to chat her yet making her acely aware of his presence


    can let the newspaper nder side he murmured his breath warm against her ear, but you''re going to have to put out the fire you started Meet you tonight at my ce


    Evangeline shoved at his solid form in your dreams


    Water, as if ying a game, pressed down a little more "You''ll be there."


    He stood up abruptly, not even fixing his clothes, and strode out of the office


    All the way down the hall, under the watchful eyes of the Foster Group staff, he unted the marks of his scuffle with Evangeline


    "Wow, look at Mr Walter Gordon''s neck all scratched up. That was some showdown!"


    "Ws: Evangeline sure doesn''t back down. You''ve got to hand it to her!"


    Back in the president''s office. Evangeline mmed her fist on the desk


    As if she would ever do what Walter said! If she went crawling back to him, she would be nothing butpdog!


    Fuming she grabbed her phone and hit Hank''s number


    Hank, are you free tonight? Let''s grab dinner I Evangeline texted.


    tank did not need a job his family was loaded. He was just at Foster Group to handle some personal


    luff On day one, however, he had already butted heads with Walter


    She had to make this dinner happen, no matter what


    ?Ms Evangeline, I work for you now. Don''t you know my schedule? Hank''s reply was yful, with Teasing edge that could make anyone blush.


    Evangeline had known Hark forever, and their banter was nothing new. She brushed it off and slumped to her couch a wave of frustration washing over her: Despite the drama, she could not shake off her feelings for Walter Get it together, Evangeline," she muttered to herself


    She and Hank were meeting at eight that night. Wanting to impress, she went all out with her outfit. On way out she thought of Walter, all alone at Crystal Waters House With a smirk, she snapped a stunning selfie and posted it online SONOBSE


    1off I go, my dream guy awaits.]


    The post, teasing and mysterious, was sure to stir up some gossip.


    Imagining Walter''s annoyed face, Evangeline strutted out, triumphant. What she did not know was that Walter, sitting in Crystal Waters House, had already seen her post and was far from pleased.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Who could possibly be the guy Evangeline would call a dream guy?


    The image of Hank popped into Walter''s head


    Unbelievable!


    Here he was, home alone, and Evangeline was out there, probably on a date with some other dude?


    What would happen next? After they shared dinner, what if they


    The more Walter stewed over it, the hotter his anger burned until a spark of an idea shed in his eyes. Evangeline, if you''re going to y dirty, then don''t expect me to y nice!!

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 136

    to the fancy restaurson Evangeline and tank sat down their wine  Ten when Day were kide


    The candlengre flickered across Evangeliewe face, highlighting her wless makeup. She was breatheaking, and has dark red checkered dress only added to her sophisticated allure. Hark wet a chatterbox, always knowing hatt what to say to get a bigugh out of Evangeline.


    Whenever he did, Evangeline felt a thrill she had not felt in ages


    Everyone said a great mariage should make life even sweeter if there was only pain, however, then it


    was clear as day-that marriage was a mistake


    She was getting more caught up in the evening by the minute.


    Then out of nowhere, her phone buzzed with a notification.


    It was Walter


    If you don''t show up. I have no choice but to prove my point by releasing this video.]


    Beneath the message was a clip


    The thumbnail showed her, cheeks rosy and looking utterly smitten.


    The background was unmistakable-it had been from that time at the Gordon family''s ce


    Her hand suddenly trembled. She could feel the rage bubbling up inside her.


    Walter had been such a creep, a total sleazeball! Who even thought of recording a video at a time like


    that?


    [Walter


    Walter, however, could not have cared less


    [You''ve got thirty minutes to return to Crystal Waters House I


    I''m not a patient guy, and when I''m ticked off, my hands get shaky. Better make it quick, Evie. Wouldn''t want my twitchy fingers to identally send out that video, huh? That''d be really bad for you! [You''re a jerk!]


    Foster Group, her grandfather''s life''s work, could not have handled this kind of scandal.


    With a heavy heart, Evangeline bit back her pride and decided along


    tonThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Hank had already picked up on her sour mood and asked with a worried look, "Evie, you okay? You don''t look so good"


    "Just a headache, sorry." She felt awful about it. She was the one who had asked Hank out, and now she was bailing on him. With the clock ticking, shetched onto Hank''s concern as her escape route, unable toe up with arrything better. OKIS BONUS


    "Don''t wrsey #but it if you at healing with, she set at home Want me to drop you offr


    Hank offimet, tanding yes Evangeline pass gestured for hum te sit.


    "No, manchak Mute that he had smug? bojitihung early when I was the one who invited you I can''t it you Brive me H


    "Look dan moy your mixat, alkay? Ta in ne 1 mart sp to you some other time.


    Evangeina torobit weiter grattant than pure, and tubest out of the diner Crystal Waters House, ther


    One thing was that sure, the single munung alle sie wet was ong gone the wat wanted to confront catie gras SM aut and about Tack Meter data that video, mamediately!"


    Imate Martin was hunting by the panoramic window, ntly watching her approach, ime observad ter walls ar, anar en suitert Rustga, and cemusly 25 upra who be cut not help but notice the pink destar sons agrestattung haginens atit aucs steve Thor Gad now had he n

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 137

    Chapter 137


    The room was pitch dark except for the glow of Walter''s cigarette. Evange light, marched up to him, and demanded, "Walter, hand over that video now. stumbled to switch on the


    Walter let out a ring of smoke andughed softly. "Why should I give it to you just because you say so?" He nodded toward the bathroom and ordered, "Go take a shower."


    He could not stand her smelling like another man.


    "Why should I listen to you?" Evangeline snapped back, her anger boiling over with no outlet. "Fine, don''t shower. I''ll do it for you!" Before she knew it, Walter had scooped her up and tossed her into the bathtub, already filled with water. Walter''s grip was like iron around Evangeline, pinning her


    The room was pitch dark except for the glow of Walter''s cigarette. Evange light, marched up to him, and demanded, "Walter, hand over that video now.


    stumbled to switch on the


    Walter let out a ring of smoke andughed softly. "Why should I give it to you just because you say so?" He nodded toward the bathroom and ordered, "Go take a shower."


    He could not stand her smelling like another man.


    "Why should I listen to you?" Evangeline snapped back, her anger boiling over with no outlet. "Fine, don''t shower. I''ll do it for you!" Before she knew it, Walter had scooped her up and tossed her into the bathtub, already filled with water. Walter''s grip was like iron around Evangeline, pinning her in the bathtub with the waterpping at her chin. She tried to speak, but her words were drowned out by his relentless questioning.


    "Going out to dinner dressed to kill, huh? What were you up to with that pretty boy?"


    His eyes, dark as a stormy night, squinted with a smile that was anything but warm.


    "That dress is a real eyesore. Let me help you out of it."


    Walter was not the helping type, was he? With a flick of his wrist, Evangeline''s cute dress was torn to ribbons.


    Evangeline was at a loss for words. She had never met a man as brazen as Walter.


    They were on the brink of divorce, and here he was, storming in like a green-eyed monster. What was his deal?


    "Walter, I''ve got to ask: When you were with Julia, was it the same circus show?"


    Ripping clothes left and right, acting like some overbearing king?


    The thought of Julia, always ying the damsel in distress, made Evangeline''s lips twitch.


    Could anyone have even imagined the two of them together, in any sort of harmony?


    She felt like she was watching a never-ending drama of the worst match ever.


    "Why evenpare yourself to her?"


    Walter was losing it, his touch growing more forceful by the second.


    Evangeline took a deep breath, her eyes narrowing as a self-deprecating chuckle escaped her. "Right. What''s there topare?"


    It was a joke, was it not?


    the Foster family''s darling princess, v


    actually jealous of Julia, the love child of an affair.


    Why? Julia had gotten all of Walter''s love, and Evangeline? She had not even stood a chance


    Walter had tried his usual flirtatious moves. Evangeline''s downcast look, however, made him stop everything. His heart was racing, yet he halted because she was not into it. If she was not on board, his


    interest fizzled out too.


    He pulled back, standing up from the bathtub.


    "What a bummer. I''m not going to bother you anymore!


    "With your terrible technique, you should quit bugging people!"


    She was already feeling rough. After the soaking and his rough touch, she felt like her privates were on


    fire.


    After drying off, Evangeline wrapped herself in a bathrobe and stood up.


    She reached for the door.


    Before she could open it, someone was already there, blocking her exit with his body.


    Surprised, she looked up into a pair of dark eyes.


    "Where do you think you''re going?"


    "Back to my room to sleep! I''ve been working hard all day, and I''m beat."


    She had no idea if Walter had been working, but she had definitely put in a full day''s work.


    "You can''t go. Let''s sleep together."


    n the bathtub with the waterpping at her chin. She tried to speak, but her words were drowned out by his relentless questioning.


    "Going out to dinner dressed to kill, huh? What were you up to with that pretty boy?"


    His eyes, dark as a stormy night, squinted with a smile that was anything but warm.


    "That dress is a real eyesore. Let me help you out of it."


    Walter was not the helping type, was he? With a flick of his wrist, Evangeline''s cute dress was torn to ribbons.


    Evangeline was at a loss for words. She had never met a man as brazen as Walter.


    They were on the brink of divorce, and here he was, storming in like a green-eyed monster. What was his deal?


    "Walter, I''ve got to ask: When you were with Julia, was it the same circus show?"


    Ripping clothes left and right, acting like some overbearing king?


    The thought of Julia, always ying the damsel in distress, made Evangeline''s lips twitch.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Could anyone have even imagined the two of them together, in any sort of harmony?


    She felt like she was watching a never-ending drama of the worst match ever.


    "Why evenpare yourself to her?"


    Walter was losing it, his touch growing more forceful by the second.


    Evangeline took a deep breath, her eyes narrowing as a self-deprecating chuckle escaped her. "Right. What''s there topare?"


    It was a joke, was it not?


    the Foster family''s darling princess, v


    actually jealous of Julia, the love child of an affair.


    Why? Julia had gotten all of Walter''s love, and Evangeline? She had not even stood a chance


    Walter had tried his usual flirtatious moves. Evangeline''s downcast look, however, made him stop everything. His heart was racing, yet he halted because she was not into it. If she was not on board, his


    interest fizzled out too.


    He pulled back, standing up from the bathtub.


    "What a bummer. I''m not going to bother you anymore!


    "With your terrible technique, you should quit bugging people!"


    She was already feeling rough. After the soaking and his rough touch, she felt like her privates were on


    fire.


    After drying off, Evangeline wrapped herself in a bathrobe and stood up.


    She reached for the door.


    Before she could open it, someone was already there, blocking her exit with his body.


    Surprised, she looked up into a pair of dark eyes.


    "Where do you think you''re going?"


    "Back to my room to sleep! I''ve been working hard all day, and I''m beat."


    She had no idea if Walter had been working, but she had definitely put in a full day''s work.


    "You can''t go. Let''s sleep together."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 138

    GET IT NOW


    #25 BONUS


    Walter did not wait for her to respond. He pulled Evangeline back to the bed and wrapped his arm around her, holding her close


    Evangeline instinctively tried to wriggle free. "I''m really tired, I don''t want-"


    Walter''s head was filled with nonsense, and she was so over it!


    "What do you think? I''ve had a long day too. You think I''m not tired? Stay still, let''s just sleep."


    Walter loosened his grip a bit, and Evangeline found a morefortable spot to settle into. She only rxedpletely when she saw he really was not going to do anything else. Sleeping in Walter''s arms was a brand-new feeling for her, and it was... incredibly special


    Her heart raced, and she could not stop the tears that welled up in her eyes.


    She had expected to lie awake all night, but his arms were just too cozy, radiating the perfect warmth, and sleep came without asking.


    When Evangeline woke up, the morning was well underway.


    She bolted upright in bed to find the other side cold and empty. Walter must have been up for ages.


    Her lips felt strangely hot. A nce in the mirror revealed they were puffy, like she had kissed a beehive.


    Walter must have done this while she was out cold!


    When did he start this gross habit? She was going to have a word with him!


    She hThis content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    hurried downstairs. Instead of Walter, she found an elderly man with silver hair.


    Trey spotted her and rose from the couch.


    Evangeline rushed over. "Grandpa Trey? What are you doing here?"


    This was her and Walter''s love nest, a ce Trey had never visited.


    Trey''s eyes turned misty as he took her hand and guided her back to the couch. "It''s so good to see the both of you on such good terms."


    Before she could respond, he added, "Now that you''re reunited, treasure each other. Forget the divorce- I''ll just take it as a misunderstanding!"


    Evangeline, looking into Trey''s teary eyes, found herself speechless, her heart too full for words.


    Evangeline''s mind raced with the urge to clear up the colossal mix-up. There was no way she and Walter could patch things up. How could she shatter the dreams of an old man who just wanted to see her and Walter happy? Meanwhile, Trey was ecstatic, dialing up Cole with a grin so big that it crinkled his eyes.


    "Guess what, old buddy? We''ve been fretting over nothing. Those two are thick as thieves, and a baby''s on the way soon enough. And get this, Walter sneakily got himself checked out. Trust me, with his health, Evie''s going to have a baby before we know it, and well be gr grandpas!" Chapter 138


    Evangeline had been on the fence about spilling the beans to Trey, but the sound of Cole''s voice made her decision for her. She just could not do it.


    Listening to the two elderly men chatting about babies right in front of her was awkward, to say the least.


    She tried to focus on something else, and that was when she spotted a figure bustling about in the kitchen. Evangeline did a double-take.


    No way. Was Walter actually cooking?


    With Trey and Cole lost in their world, she figured they would not notice her for a bit. Thus, Evangeline stood up, determined to confront Walter. In the kitchen, she pointed at her puffy lips and demanded in a stern voice.

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    Chapter 139


    "What''s up with my mouth?"


    Walter, caught in the middle of his culinary endeavors, stopped and nced at her face "I couldn''t help myself."


    He said it with such nonchnce. It was as if he werementing on the weather, not admitting to at stolen kiss


    Then, without missing a beat, he went right back to his cooking.


    Evangeline just stood there, utterly bbergasted.


    Walter''s carefree attitude was really getting under her skin


    "You''re the worst Look at what you''ve done to me! How am I supposed to show my face outside?


    She stormed up to Walter, ready to give him a piece of her mind


    She did not see iting


    As she stood there, Walter just leaned in trapping her against the wall.


    Evangeline''s eyes went wide Was she just pinned against the wall?


    "And let''s not forget, you grabbed me out of nowherest night, I almost had a major scandal on my


    handis


    "That''s a liet"


    Evangeline tried to argue back, but Walter''s hand was suddenly over her mouth


    His voice was low but firm in her ear


    Grandpa Trey is right outside. Put on a good show, or we''re both in deep trouble. Another thing you were moving back in starting today I send a driver to take you to work and back." Evangeline wriggled free from his grip after a few tries "Why should (I don''t need you keeping tabs on


    me


    He made it sound like he was just offering her a ride, but she knew better-it was all about keeping an eye on her. Did he really think she was clueless?


    A thought then struck her


    "Walter, what''s gotten into you?


    In the past, Walter would not even bother talking to her, let alone offer ndes


    "What are you really after?Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Walter''s gaze darkened, and he did not mince words. Twant a baby.


    You''re looking for a baby, right? I tick all your boxes, I am the best candidate. Plus, we''ve already given it two shots. When ites to having kids, we''re the quickest, most efficient option. Give it some thought Chapter 139


    Walterid out the benefits of them having a baby together like he was totally on board with being her partner in this high-stakes baby-making venture.


    This just did not seem like the Walter she knew


    "What do you want?" Evangeline was puzzled.


    Before, she had pulled out all the stops, yet she could not get him to budge an inch. All of a sudden, he was ready to y the role in her baby making n? What was she missing here?


    "What do I want?" Walter''s lips curled into a sly grin "Cant a guy just want a good night''s sleep? Once wasn''t enough-I want more!"


    "You''re such a jerk"


    Evangeline was livid. She should have known better. Walter was the type who never said anything heartfelt, and she had actually taken him seriously for once! She swung her fist at him, not holding back one bit.


    Walter caught her wrist on reflex, stopping her feisty little hand


    Just then.....


    "Walter, you jerk, what are you up to?"


    Trey appeared out of nowhere, scowling at them, looking like he was about to break up a fight


    Walter gave a resigned half-smile. "Grandpa, ever heard of flirting? Can you give us youngsters a little room to breathe?"


    A bit of teasing was all it took to make Trey, the old-timer, turn red. He mumbled an apology and shuffled back to the living room

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    Chapter 140


    Six dishes and one soup, all made by Walter himself,


    Evangeline stared at the feast before her, utterly gobsmacked.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Who would have guessed that the high-and-mighty young master of the Gordon family could whip up a storm in the kitchen?


    Walter noticed Evangeline spacing out again, her food untouched, and he reached over to load up her te. "You''ve got to eat up if you''re thinking about kids. You can''t make a baby if you''re malnourished. Evangeline stared at the braised vegetables in her bowl


    Seriously? Was Walter on a mission to fatten her up for baby-making?


    Then, she heard him add, "We should swing by the hospitalter for a full check-up. If all''s well, we can start nning for a little one."


    Before Evangeline could even process this, her phone buzzed to life. It was Cole calling.


    "Evie, Asher is on his way to Crystal Waters House to fetch you. You''re due for a pre-baby doctor''s visit,"


    he said.


    With Trey and Walter watching, Evangeline''s toes curled in embarrassment.


    "Grandpa, do we really have to? I''m perfectly healthy... Her voice trailed off, weak and uncertain.


    Inside, her mind was racing with the weird timing. Walter had just mentioned a check-up, and all of a sudden, Grandpa was on the same page. The ride to the hospital was already en route as well! "What do you mean, healthy? Walter''s fit as a fiddle, and you two haven''t managed to have a baby after all this time. You must be ying tricks, not wanting to get pregnant...


    Evangeline''s eyes went wide with indignation, but she was too flustered to speak. When she nced at Walter, he was trying to hide a smirk. That just made her blood boill


    It was his fault, always dodging the baby talk, that they had not had a child yet. He had the gall to pin it on her?


    At that moment, she knew for sure that Walter was the one pulling the strings behind her back!


    Evangeline was right, of course. Walter and Cole had been talking about him starting a family for a while.


    Actually, it was more like Walter had just gone through a pre-pregnancy check-up and had shared.st detail of his results with Cole.


    every


    Cole''s assistant, Asher, was a real whiz kid. In no time at all, he showed up at Crystal Waters House.


    With Walter''s piercing eyes on her, Evangeline climbed into the car, her face a mix of mortification and fury.


    At the hospital, the OB-GYN stared at theputer screen, studying the medical history before asking in a t tone, "When did youst have sex?" Evangeline drew a nk.


    12


    She was just there for a pre-pregnancy check-up. Who would expect a pop quiz on her sex life?


    Thest time was


    Before she could even jog her memory, Walter chimed in


    "A week ago. To be exact, it was on the sixteenth of this month," Walter consulted the calendar on his phone as he spoke.


    The doctor typed something into theputer and then said. "The sixteenth isn''t an ovtion day, so the odds of getting pregnant are slim. Mr. Campbell mentioned you''re eager to conceive soon, is that right?" Evangeline, cheeks burning gave a small nod.


    Always having wanted kids, Evangeline found that Walter had been dragging his feet until this day.


    The doctor took a quick look at the calendar and offered some advice.


    "Okay, first things first, you guys were both in great shape health-wise. Really, it was just about timing and patience when it came to making a baby. No stress was needed.


    "Now, since you''re eager for a child, I pinpointed the best baby-making time for you. Mark your calendar for the twenty-eighth-


    thats in five days. Your magic window is between eight at night to midnight. Hold off on any action until then to make sure those swimmers are in top shape.


    "When the timees, go for it more than once if you can, and stick to the ssic missionary-it''s your golden ticket for conception. After you finish the deed, you shouldn''t jump straight into the shower, miss. Instead, prop a pillow under her hips to give those little guys a chance to settle in for at least fifteen minutes Trust me, it could make all the difference."

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    Chapter 141Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Evangeline was practically squirming as she listened to the doctor''s instructions.


    The doctor was so thorough that she covered everything down to the exact posture. She stopped just short of giving a y-by-y on how to get it on.


    While Evangeline was busy trying not to curl up from embarrassment, Walter did not even bat an eysh. Even with the doctor diving into super private stuff, the guy did not so much as blush. Seriously?


    This pre-baby appointment was turning into an epic disaster.


    The second the doctor wrapped up, Evangeline bolted like her thoes were on fire.


    Walking down the hospital corridor, Evangeline and Walter were a few steps apart. They were kind of a big deal, and their presence set off a buzz among the onlookers.


    As Evangeline walked by, she caught a snippet of conversation from a couple of gossiping doctors and


    nurses.


    "Isn''t that Mr. Walter Gordon of Gordon Group? Some numbskull must''ve spread a dumb rumor about him being impotent. He looks perfectly capable..."


    "Totally. Oh, and get this-Ms. Evangeline over there? She was in here a few days back for... a tear. What do you think could cause that kind of injury? If you ask me, it''s all thanks to Mr. Walter Gordon''s super strength, if you catch my drift." They snickered.


    Evangeline shot them a furious look. However, they were too wrapped up in their chat to notice. She felt like a fool for getting worked up, and her anger redirected toward Walter.


    Their whispers trailed on.


    "People are saying they''re heading for divorce, right? How does that add up with all this bedroom gymnastics?"


    "Who said that? Mr. Walter Gordon just had a pre-pregnancy checkup at our hospital a couple of days ago. Bet you didn''t know that..."


    Evangeline''s fists tightened out of sight, cursing Walter under her breath.


    So the report she had gotten was for a pre-pregnancy checkup, not a disease diagnosis at all!


    Outside the hospital, Asher stood by the car with the utmost respect, watching Evangeline and Walter emerge, and quickly swung the car door open.


    Walter, being the heir to the Gordon fortune, obviously had his own ride and did not need Asher''s services.


    This was the moment for him and Evangeline to go their separate ways.


    Evangeline had been looking for a chance to break free from Walter, and she was itching to dive into the car and leave him in her dust.


    Arge hand beat her to it, unfortunately, blocking her escape.


    "Evangeline, where are you off to?"


    Evangeline paused, turning to Walter with a mix of surprise and annoyance. "I''m heading back to the office! I''ve got a mountain of work there, not like you, lounging around without a care in the world."


    Forget the rest. Walter''s interruption had thrown her entire schedule off, especially the wee ceremony for Hank, the new CEO. With Hank making his mark on Foster Group, she would have to be even more on her toes. "When have I ever been lounging around?" Walter shot back. He was the type to get his work done ahead of time, was he not?


    Too bad Evangeline was not in the mood for a debate.


    7


    "Yeah, yeah, Mr. Walter Gordon, you''ve obviously got your hands full, but considering where you and 1 stand, blocking me like this isn''t exactly cool, is it?"


    Evangeline''s gaze settled on Walter, her eyes a calm storm. With effortless grace, she lifted her hand and rested it on the arm he used to bar her path, then pushed down with a feather''s touch that somehow felt as heavy as a mountain.

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    was


    The pressure is light, almost delicate, yet it bore dough on Walter''s arm with an unexpected force


    Walter had no grounds to hold Evangeline back, but the thought of that guy back at the office, the one with the suave aura and those eyes full of unspoken words whenever theynded on Evangeline, ser shadow across Walter''s face Caught off guard for just a split second, his arm gave way under her gentle insistence Evangeline turned. her movements fluid and graceful, and slipped into her car With a swift start, the vehicle darted away. leaving nothing but a trail of dust Was Evangeline really in such a rush to get back? Was this Hank guy so important that she could not stay. away?


    Walter spun to find his assistant, David, already at his side


    "Mr Walter Gordon, heading back to the office? Walter had told David earlier that he would dedicate the whole day to his wife''s medical appointment


    He had not expected her to leave the hospital so soon, though.


    Walter shot David a cool look. "No, let''s not."This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    He climbed into the driver''s seat, shut the door behind him, and rolled down the window. With a cigarette already smoldering between his lips, he said to David in aid-back drawl, "Take the rest of the day off, David. You''ll have to find your own ride back."


    Walter zipped through the streets, his car a blur as he made a beeline for Kronovia Royale Pub, the hottest spot in Avalon City. The party district was eerily quiet, with only a handful of early birds and a lone singer crooning mellow tunes on stage. It made sense- only the non-partiers would hit up a bar at this hour.


    He slid into his usual booth, loosened his tie, and unbuttoned the top of his shirt to unwind. Without missing a beat, he ordered a bottle of red and poured himself a drink. As the wine warmed his throat, he spotted a face in the corner that seemed strikingly familiar. Fair skin, those distinctive eyes, and a figure he could swear he had seen before. Could it be Evangeline?


    He almostughed out loud at the thought Evangeline was probably back at the office, cozying up to Hank No way she would be here. He refilled his ss with a flourish and was about to get lost in the music again when a subtle floral scent tickled his nose


    He turned to find a woman standing next to his table, a cocktail in hand, oozing charm as she slid into the seat across from him. "Mind if I join you, handsome?" she asked, though she clearly did not need his permission.


    Walter blinked, double-checking the now-empty corner, and realized he had been mistaken. The woman across from him, d in a sizzling red backless dress and bold makeup, was the spitting image


    of nightclub Evangeline. Upon taking another look, however, he knew it was not her-just a striking resemnce that had thrown him for a second.


    That was why Walter did a double-take, the girl had a look that reminded him of Evangeline. Kicking out a knockout like her? No way. That would be rude and a surefire way to break her heart.


    ��25 BONUS


    He shed a grin that did not quite reach his eyes and waved her over with aid back flick of his wrist


    "Company from a stunner like you? I''m all for it, as long as you''re cool with this cozy little spot.


    "Why would I mind?"


    She clinked her ss against Water''s, giving him a soft, flirty blink. Leaning forward, her curves nearly spilled over the tatie, impossible to igno

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    Chapter 143


    "Isn''t drinking alone just boring? Let''s knock a few back together, what do you say?"


    If Walter thought she was just being friendly before, he was sure at this moment that she was buttering


    him up.


    "Let''s do it." He grabbed his ss and took a swig, eager to see what kind of game she was ying.


    As she settled in across from him, unnoticed, a dude in baggy grey threads slipped out of the bar.


    Cut to Evangeline, deep in business talk with Hank, when her phone buzzed.


    "Walter''s at the Kronovia Royale Pub, knocking back a few


    Evangeline smirked "Big surprise. Since when is Walter hitting a bar news?"


    She was not a regr at those chaotic watering holes, but it seemed like every time she did show up, Walter was there too. The guy must have been a fixture.


    "Guess what? That B-lister Felicia Edmonds is there too..."


    The moment the words were said Evangeline''s expression turned icy


    It was bad enough that Walter hit the bars, but to find out he was fooling around, too?


    They were both in the midst of a divorce cooling-off period. Why did Walter get to y the jealousy card, warning her not to cheat, while he was out there picking up women at bars? Was he looking for a stand-in because his precious Julia was out of the picture?


    He was just like a dog that could not stop scavenging through the trash!


    Evangeline mmed her fist onto the table. The thought of being made a fool of was unbearable. How


    could she just swallow that?


    Caden walked into the bar to find Walter already nursing a drink


    Noticing Walter''s buzz, Caden sensed an opportunityProperty belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    "Rough day, Mr. Walter Gordon? he prodded


    Caden was dying to know what could knock a guy like Walter off his game


    Walter let out a dismissive grunt. "Drink?"


    They had been at this game too long Caden got the hint


    "Fine, fine, let''s just drink," he conceded


    Forbidden topics only piqued his curiosity more.


    He awkwardly touched his nose and raised his ss for a conciliatory toast


    After a sip of red wine, Walter''s gaze wandered off into the distance, lost in thought.


    Caden did not need words to read the sorrow on Walters face Pouring another ss, Cadert let out a sigh, keeping his thoughts to himself Chapter 143.


    "I never saw iting-Evangeline is the Foster family''s darling!" His eyes flicked to Walter. "Say, got any regrets?"


    Regrets?


    That word had hit Walter like a ton of bricks.


    Which regret was Caden talking about, anyway? Was it for never having treated Evangeline right? Was it for letting her go?


    Thinking about it, Walter had to chuckle. What did it matter which regret it was?


    He swirled his drink, a careless smile on his face.


    Just then, a sh of fiery red caught his eye.


    ?


    A mere few feet away, a hulking brute had pped a woman in a fiery red dress across the face.


    "Ah!"


    She stumbled, and by some twist of fate, ended up right next to Walter''s leg.


    Walter instinctively reached out to steady her, and that was when the brute''s anger turned on him. "What''s your deal, punk? Think you can touch my girl?" The guy squared up to Walter menacingly, looking like he was about to throw down right there.

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    hapter 144.


    Walter was already in a foul mood, and some jerk hade looking tr turn down an opportunity to blow off some steam.


    He was about to get up when a sh of red stepped in front of him.


    "This is my fault. Please don''t hurt him!"


    k a fight? He was not about to


    Walter did a double-take. It was the red-dressed woman who had tried to flirt with him earlier and whom he had brushed off. All of a sudden, she was standing there, defending him? "You?"Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The brute burst intoughter. "Look at you, trying to y the hero!"


    The p wasing. The woman did not flinch, ready to take the hit head-on.


    Walter''s eyes were glued to the scene before him, his heart aching as he watched the woman take hit after hit. Just as he was about to jump in and stop it-


    Out of nowhere, a round of apuse with a beat broke through the tension.


    The eagerly watching crowd parted like the Red Sea, making way for Evangeline. She strutted through in sky-high heels and a crisp white suit,manding everyone''s attention. Her makeup was on point, with a yful flick at the corner of her eyes, and her jet- ck hair flowed down her back like ocean waves.


    "Timing is everything, right? Mr. Walter Gordon, what''s this? Trying to be the knight in shining armor?"


    Evangeline''s eyes darted from Walter to the woman beside him-long hair, killer curves, totally Walter''s


    type.


    Something about this woman...


    Evangeline''s brow furrowed as she made an unbelievable connection. Did she kind of look like her?


    Just then, whispers rippled through the crowd.


    "Check it out. That''s Evangeline, the Foster family''s darling princess!"


    "Man, she''s stunning and fierce. No wonder she''s dubbed the real-life heroine of feel-good fiction. That aura, that grace! I''m green with envy... Evangeline had grown used to such fanfare since her identity went public; it barely registered anymore. Her focus was solely on the woman before her.


    The muscle-bound thug who had been throwing punches was suddenly nowhere to be seen.


    Little starlet Felicia, the damsel Walter had swooped in to save, had cleverly stepped aside to give Evangeline room,


    a


    "Ms. Evangeline, why don''t you take a seat over here?"


    She curled up, looking as pitiful as a bullied cat, and quickly scooted to the other side of Walter.


    Evangeline caught on right away-the woman was just putting on a show.


    Her main goal was to snag Walter''s sympathy.


    Although Evangeline was a woman herself and had no interest in Walter, she saw no point in calling her out.


    Still, she did not need to be anywhere near Walter.


    Evangeline gave Felicia a dismissive wave. "No thanks, I''m good over here."


    Her eyes thennded on Caden.


    Caden got the hint in a sh and stood up with a grin, offering his seat.


    Instead of sitting, Evangeline turned and gestured for the man behind her to take the spot.


    That man was none other than her new CEO, Hank.


    She had nned to confront Walter alone. Hank, however, was notfortable with her heading to a bar -a ce teeming with all sorts-by herself, so he tagged along.


    What they did not expect was for Walter''s face to go as green as a lime the second Hank showed up.


    Once Hank and Evangeline sat down together across from him, Walter looked like he was about to explode.


    "Evangeline, what are you even doing here?*


    He could not contain his anger.

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    tock out for dank and he bumped into her he had


    (a


    a date, it seemed


    Evangeline let out a coldugh wrapped her arms around herself, and slouchedfortably into the note "What a question Mr. Walter Gordon. People hit up bars for a good time not for other services, rights


    Evangeline''s eyes locked onto Felicia with a look that screamed volumes, and everyone in the room caught the drift in a heartbeat.


    "Never would''ve guessed the Foster family''s darling princess was into this sort of thing," remarked Walter nonchntly


    The tension between them could have sparked a duel, and there stood Felicia, smack in the middle, the picture of difort


    She turned to Evangeline, her voice barely above a whisper, "Ms. Evangeline, please, you''ve got it all wrong Mr. Walter Gordon just saw some creep hassling me and stepped in. There''s nothing shady going on, we''re totally honest Tears brimmed in Felicia''s eyes as she spoke. Walter, however, cut her off before she could finish.


    "What are you bbering about? With a swift move, Walter pulled Felicia into his arms, and she ended up sitting right next to him, "Why bother exining? Didn''t we agree to meet here for drinks? That''s why you''re here, right?" Felicia had nned to charm Walter from the get-go, but with all eyes on them, she could not fathom his sudden shift. Still, she blushed and settled next to him like a good girl.


    Evangeline had braced herself to witness Walter''s public disy of affection with another woman, but even so, the sight twisted a knife in her chestThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Just then, Walter turned his eyes toward Evangeline, as if she were the only one in the room.


    "Look, Ms. Evangeline, I''m here for a good time with a gorgeous date, not for a drama. What brings you here? Don''t tell me you''ve heard that I''d be here and came to bust me?" Walter''s half-mocking tone had been spot- on, and it would have hit too close to home if Evangeline had not been so cool under pressure.


    She barely kept herposure under his piercing stare before shing a knowing smile. "You''re worrying about nothing. Mr. Walter Gordon. My days are packed; I don''t have the luxury of lounging around like you. I''m not here to y the jealous ex. Just here to chill with f Evangeline''s voice took a sharp turn, her eyes curiously scanning Felicia. "I never would''ve guessed your new girl would look a bit like me. Resemnce is a funny thing, isn''t it? Hey, girl, how about a friendly tip from your big sis?"


    Without waiting for Felicia to respond, Evangeline went on, "Trying to catch Walter''s eye by mirroring my looks? Big mistake. Remember the violin girl Julia? That''s the kind of girl Mr. Walter Gordon falls for.


    Walter''s face soured instantly, his teeth clenched in anger, "Evangeline, can''t you ever keep your mouth shut?" He could not stand the mention of Julia, that woman he loathed. Evangeline just had to rub salt in the wound! 112


    Caden stood by, watching the sparks fly between the two, the air practically crackling with tension. For everyone''s safety, he knew he had to jump in and defuse the situation


    "Hey, just a second, guys It''s kind of cool that we all ran into each other here, right?"

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    CoolThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Cool?


    Caden did not even get to finish his sentence before Walter and Evangeline cut him off, their voices ovepping in perfect unison-and they were saying the same thing!


    Their unexpected sync drew a collective gasp from the crowd.


    Caden shed a "zip it sign and kept the banter going "Look at you two, in perfect harmony. If that''s not fate, I don''t know what is. But this tit-for-


    tat thing is getting old/How about we spice things up with a game? Nothing too crazy, just a round of Truth or Dare. It''ll be a st!"


    Caden had his reasons for suggesting the game.


    Walter and Evangeline were constantly at each other''s throats, which was not helping anyone. Maybe a game could have broken the ice, gotten them to open up, or even shared a close moment. Either way, it could have only helped. What Caden did not realize was that Evangeline had seen right through his little ploy.


    She did not respond right away but instead turned to Hank, who was standing nearby. "Hank, what do you think?"


    Her voice was already soft, but sheid it on extra thick, her gentle tone a stark contrast to her no-nonsense business outfit, giving her an allure that was hard to ignore.


    Upon noticing Walter''s scowl deepening, she could not resist pushing it a little further. "If you''re not up for it, we can just head back. Doesn''t seem like we''re missing out on much."


    Her words dripped with a cool indifference.


    Evangeline''s stance was clear, and it was not about the game-it was all about Walter.


    She was determined to show Caden that nobody wanted to know Walter''s secrets, and nobody wanted to y the game with him.


    Hank gave Evangeline a warm, doting smile, his eyes twinkled with affection. "Go ahead and y if you want, I''m totally cool with it."


    His words sent a ripple of murmurs through the crowd.


    "Whoa, what''s going on here? An outright showdown?"


    -"Ms. Evangeline''stest crush and Mr. Walter Gordon''s new sweetheart at the same table for Truth or


    Dare?"


    "This is like some epic drama! Someone pinch me, I''m so pumped I might pass out!"


    "Hey, isn''t that Mr. Walter Gordon''s new sweetheart, the little B-lister Felicia who''s been in the spotlighttely?"


    Caden ignored the buzz of the spectators, simply shooting Walter a meaningful nce.


    Walter got the message and shrugged it off.


    "What are you looking at me for? I came out to have a good time today, and I''ve got all the time in the world. Plus, if people are game, I''m in. Why spoil the fun?"


    Walter was known for his love of a good time, and ducking out at this point would only have made it look like he was scared of Evangeline, right?


    He gave Felicia a yful nudge. "What about you? You in?"


    Felicia had been eager for any chance to get closer to Walter and quickly replied with a shy smile, "If everyone''s ying, I''m not going to be the one to ruin it. Let''s do this." "Awesome!" Caden was so thrilled he could barely contain himself.


    "Let''s keep the game and our tools simple."


    He grabbed the wine bottle and topped off everyone''s sses until it ran dry.


    "Okay, since I''m the one who suggested this game, I''ll be in charge. Everyone cool with that?"


    "Come on, let''s get this party started!" Walter could not wait and had pushed eagerly.


    "Fine, fine, here we go!"


    The bottle had twirled across the table like a dan

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    Chapter 147


    "Congrats, Ms. Edmonds, your turn to pick-Truth or Dare?"


    Caden''s voice had been tinged with a mix of feelings.


    He had brought up the game to smooth things over between Walter and Evangeline. However, things seemed to be spiraling a bit out of hand.


    As expected, Felicia''s hopeful eyes locked onto Walter right next to her. "I''ll take a dare. Mr. Walter Gordon, how about we share a drink with linked arms?" Everyone knew what that meant-a gesture of closeness, usually reserved for couples.


    Felicia''s motives for cozying up to Walter were as clear as day.


    Her challenge sent a wave of whispers through the crowd, all eyes fixed on Walter for his response.


    "To link arms and drink with a new me right in front of his ex? Talk about drama!"


    for a baby. If he takes up Felicia on her dare, he''s basically asking for trouble, right?"


    r won''t actually go through with it, will he? I''ve heard those divorce rumors are bogus, and they''re


    What the crowd did not realize was that their whispers were like a red g to Walter, a challenge from Evangeline herself.


    He was on the verge of saying yes when the full weight of what the arm-linked drink really meant hit him.


    "Sorry, I need to hit the bathroom."


    Walter got up without a word, leaving everyone gaping as he walked away.


    The dare was a bust, and Felicia, having lost the round, had no choice but to down the red wine already poured for her.


    On to the next round.


    Caden took a deep breath as he spun the bottle, silently hoping for the oue he wanted. The bottle slowed, finally pointing straight at Evangeline


    Evangeline spotted Caden''s look and knew he was trying to push her into a moment with Walter. As if she would y into his hands.


    She grabbed the wine bottle, set it down with a thud, and made her choice with a cool confidence. "Truth. Go ahead, ask."


    She-only had to answer one question. Caden could be as sly as a fox, but he would not get the best of her.


    Caden just gave a sly grin and fired off his question. "You picked, so I am not holding back! Ms. Evangeline, was your first time... with someone here tonight?" Talk about a personal bombshell!


    She could not back down, not in front of this crowd.


    Evangeline clenched her jaw, her eyes flicked to Walter, who was just returning, and answered with a


    nonchnt shrug. "Yes."


    Caden, buzzing with excitement, pressed on, "Can you spill the beans then? Who was it? Everyone''s dying to know, right?"


    The room went silent, all eyes were on Evangeline.


    Too bad for them.


    "Sorry, Mr. Scott, that''s a different question." Evangeline''s smile was radiant, turning heads and leaving a clear message.


    Caden thought he could outsmart her? Well, he had to try harder.


    Caden had no choice but to move on to the next round


    The wine bottle spun and, once again, pointed straight at Evangeline.


    Caden could not help but silently celebrate.


    It was like the stars were aligning for him and Walter!


    "Ms. Evangeline, you''ve already picked truth once, so now it''s time for a dare," he said with a hint of mischief.


    He was the game master, after all, and what he said went. Evangeline did not have a leg to stand on. "Alright, dare it is," she agreed.


    Caden had no idea that he was ying right into her hands.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Your dare is to lock lips with one of the guys here for a full ten minutes!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 148

    Chapter 148


    Evangeline and her colleague Hank were not exactly cozy with each other, so Caden figured that his best bud Walter was Evangeline''s only real option. Caden''s perfect n was about to crumble, which was too bad.


    "This dare... sure is spicy," Evangeline remarked coolly, almost as if she were merelymenting on the weather.


    As everyone watched with bated breath, her gaze glided over the crowd and settled on Hank. Her eyes made her choice clear without a word.


    Caden was stunned. Had he just helped his rival?


    On the other hand, Felicia could not contain her glee.


    She did not care who Evangeline picked, just as long as it was not Walter. She was thrilled!


    Always one for drama, Felicia pped and eagerly asked, "A French kiss, is it? So, who''s the lucky guy, Ms. Evangeline?"


    Hank, ever the gentleman, opened his arms in a weing gesture.


    "If you''re game, I''m ready."


    He gazed at Evangeline, his deep blue eyes brimming with emotion. Their locked gazes in the midst of the crowd were so intense, it was like they were openly dering their love for each other.


    The room buzzed with excitement, and suddenly, someone led the charge, and cheers broke out. "Make it a French kiss! Make it a French kiss!"


    The energy in the room soared, while Walter''s mood plummeted. What was Evangeline thinking. embarrassing him like this in front of everyone?


    "Enough! Everyone, just be quiet!" Walter''s hand crashed down on the table with a thunderous smack, silencing the room instantly. He red at Evangeline, wordlessly stood up, and was about to leave when he spun to face Felicia. "Why are you still here? Come with me.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    To Felicia, his words sounded like a secret rendezvous, and her heart leaped as she hurried after him. Walter could not just walk away from such a charged moment, could he?


    Evangeline stepped in front of him before he could leave, and Felicia paused.


    "Where do you think you''re going? The adventure is not over yet. I''m not even scared of a little French kiss, why are you bailing on me? It''s like you think I can''t handle the fun."


    "What''s there to look at?" Walter scoffed, rolling his eyes at Evangeline, "As if I don''t know what you''re all about. Too much of you is just an eyesore!" Then, he shot Felicia a meaningful nce.


    Felicia looped her arm through Walter''s and strode off without a backward nce.


    Caden was frozen in ce, his shock as palpable as the silence that fell over the dispersing crowd.


    Evangeline knew this was exactly the drama Walter had hoped to stir up.


    #25 PONUS


    ith the audience gone, their little charade would be pointless to continue.


    She was not about to let him dictate the script, however


    Watching thest of the spectators drift away, Evangeline tossed her head and said with a hint of mischief. "Hey everyone, don''t leave just yet! The game''s not over, and my big moment hasn''t even happened. Walter stormed off, and if you all bail, it''ll be a total snooze fest with just us three. You''ve gotta stick around to see me through to the end of this round, at least!""


    She had no idea that Caden''s heart was racing, thudding against his chest like it wanted to escape.


    He had set up his own Evangeline for a kiss, a full-on French kiss, with someone else! How was he going to face Walter after this without wanting to tear himself apart? Chapter 149

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 149

    Chapter 149


    "Evangeline, can you not make a scene, please?"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Evangeline was not ying around, however. She meant business this time.


    She had always known about Hank''s crush on her. She just never reciprocated because Walter was the only one in her heart. Since she and Walter were on the brink of divorce,


    Taking advantage of this dare, kissing Hank was her bold deration to Walter that she was done with him for good.


    I was time to cut the cord for good.


    Hank''s years of silent devotion had not gone unnoticed by her, moreover. If she could, she would be ready to open up to him.


    Even though Walter was not there to see it, with everyone watching, it would have the same effect. Evangeline was sure of it: By sunrise, the whole of Avalon City would be buzzing about her steamy kiss with Hank. Once that happened, there would be no turning back for her and Walter...


    Lost in thought, she locked eyes with Hank. The excitement in his gaze was unmistakable. feel this twinge of quilt staring into those deep, loving eyes? Pushing aside her mixed emotions, Evangeline leaned in, her lips inching closer to Hank''s. Why di


    did she


    Her eyes shut tight, yet just before their lips could meet, she was stopped short. Her eyes snapped open to find a slender finger pressed against her lips- Hank''s finger, "Evie, if you''re not into it, I''ll take the penalty shot for you," he said, his voice soft butced with care and tenderness.


    Tears sprang to Evangeline''s eyes. She knew Hank would not push her, he was just trying to save her from the dreaded penalty drink.


    As his finger dropped away, a wild thought shed through her mind, and she almost wanted to knock herself out for it. If only it were Walter in front of her...


    Biting her lip, Evangeline''s arms slowly reached up, encircling Hank''s neck, and she yfully arched an eyebrow, "Why would that be?"


    Meanwhile, Caden was dying inside. He really was going to stand there and watch his Evangeline get cozy with another guy? No way, he just could not take it!


    "Look, since Walter and his crew took off, can we just... forget this game ever happened?"


    "Yeah, let''s just forget it!" blurted Caden, snatching the liquor bottle in a desperate bid to protect Evangeline''s reputation.


    As luck would have it, Evangeline''s eyes locked onto Caden.


    "No way! Just because they''re gone doesn''t mean the show''s over. We''ve still got an audience, right? I''m Evangeline, and I don''t back down from a challenge! Am I right, folks?" She threw the challenge to the crowd, who were all too eager for some drama.


    With the crowd cheering them on, Evangeline''s delicate hand brushed Hank''s chin, and she stood on her toes, her lips inching toward his.


    Their lips were almost touching.


    The bar went dead quiet, the only sound was the collective gasp of the onlookers.


    Evangeline''s lips were just a breath away from Hank''s.


    The stage was set for a blockbuster kiss. The scene was ripe for a steamy embrace between them-


    Ring-a-ding-ding!


    An obnoxious cell phone ringtone sted through the silence, killing the vibe.


    7


    GET IT NOW

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 150

    Evangeline and Hank froze.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    A glimmer of hope sparked in Caden''s dull eyes.


    The crowd had scrambled to find the source of the mood-killing noise.


    Hank scowled as he fished out the offending phone from his pocket.


    His eyes had shown a tinge of regret, and the urge to keep going with Evangeline had disappeared as soon as he saw who was calling.


    With Evangeline looking on, worried, Hank had taken the call. The more the person on the other end had talked, the tighter Hank''s frown had be.


    Hank ended the call, and Evangeline noticed a sheen of sweat on his brow-a rare sight. He was always so cool and collected, like a prince out of a storybook


    "What''s up?" she asked, her voiceced with concern.


    "Just a little hup at thepany," he replied, trying to sound nonchnt, but Evangeline could hear the edge of worry in his voice.


    Thepany had to be Foster Group, which Hank had recently taken charge of. Suddenly, Evangeline was not in the mood for games. She took hold of Hank''s arm. "I''ming with you." "Hold on a second."


    Caden, who had been hovering nearby, seized the moment. He stepped in and peeled Evangeline''s hand from Hank''s sleeve. "Why head to thepany thiste? If Hank says it''s a small issue, he''s got it under control. No point in you tagging along and making a trip for n Caden had his own reasons for keeping them apart. Late at night, just the two of them, anything could happen.


    Evangeline paused, considering Caden''s words. Foster Group was no small matter, and she had to be careful. However, Hank was still finding his footing as the new boss. She would not


    have to fret over his authority at thepany anymore if he could sort this out alone. His future work would likely be smoother, too.


    "Hank, do you need me with you?" she asked, her decision clear in her mind after a moment''s thought. Evangeline had always trusted Hank''s judgment over the years.


    He was well aware of what Foster Group meant to her, and he would not push himself to do something he could not handle.


    "No need," Hank responded quickly, "I''ve just got an emergency and need to head back to the office right away. I can''t drive you home.


    The night was getting darker, and Evangeline, with her striking appearance, made Hank worry.


    "Don''t sweat it, thepanyes first. You go on, I''ll be fine *


    The party lost its spark with the main guy gone, and since Evangeline barely knew Caden, she decided to just grab a ride home. Heading toward the bar''s exit, she could not shake the feeling that something was off about today.


    Of all times for a crisis at thepany, why at this moment?


    Walter had just left, and she had not even shared a kiss with Hank before this emergency popped up. It had to be Walter, that jerk! She knew him too well. If it meant making her miserable, he would stoop to anything!


    spotted


    Just as she thought, the moment Evangeline left the bar, she spotted that all-too-familiar figure around


    the corner.


    A surge of anger welled up inside her. However, she held it back, readying herself for a smoother confrontation.

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    Chapter 151


    Evangeline halted, a storm brewing in her mind. She stood frozen in ce.


    Walter caught the change in her stance and strode over, his grip firm as he yanked her into the car without a word.


    The ride was eerily quiet.


    Inside, Evangeline''s anger simmered, ready to boil over.


    Walter was seething too, unable to stomach the thought of Evangeline wanting to kiss another man right in front of him. He gave her the silent treatment.


    They arrived at Crystal Waters House.


    Walter did not bother with manners, practically dragging Evangeline from the car and into the house.


    The door mmed shut behind them, and Walter''s voice cut through the silence, sharp as a knife. "Evangeline, I can''t stand that Hank guy. I''m warning you-stay away from him!"


    He had disliked Hank from the moment he heard they were childhood friends. After seeing Evangeline choose Hank''s kiss over his own, Walter wanted nothing more than to make that thorn in his side vanish. Evangeline, shrouded in darkness, justughed. It was a chilling, mocking sound.


    *Stay away from Hank?" Her voice was soft butced with ice. "And who are you to me, Walter? Why should I listen to you?"


    Evangeline knew every inch of Crystal Waters House, so well that she could find the light switch in pitch ckness without missing a beat.


    In a sh, the living room burst into light, revealing Walter''s dark, brooding face in Evangeline''s view.


    His looks were still drop-dead gorgeous, his physique still the kind that could make anyone''s mouth water, and he was still the guy who haunted Evangeline''s dreams. Evangeline did not even pause to look at him this time.


    She flopped onto the couch as if she were in her own ce, looking totally at ease.


    Walter stalked over to her, but instead of beating around the bush, he got straight to


    the point with a voice as deep as a canyon, Just keeping him at arm''s length isn''t enough. Make him leave Avalon City, or I''ll make sure he vanishes from here for good! His words wereced with a threat that could not be clearer.


    Too bad for him, Evangeline was the Foster family''s darling princess.


    The Gordons might rule the South and the Fosters the North, and sure, Walter had clout, but the Fosters were not pushovers. She was not scared one bit!


    She was more interested in something else,


    ?


    "Walter, why are you so hung up on Hank being around? Don''t tell me... you''re... jealous?*


    The idea of Walter being jealous, especially over her, was so oundish it could make her question if pigs had started to fly or if the sun had decided to rise in the west.


    A secondter, Walter was seething, teeth clenched in fury,This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He could own up to feeling a twinge of jealousy, but to actually admit it with Evangeline acting like this? That would be like handing her a free shot at his pride.


    "Get over yourself! You think being the Foster family''s darling princess doesn''t turn heads online? By the crack of dawn, the whole of Avalon City will be buzzing about you making moves on Hank, the hotshot new CEO of Foster Group, "And hey, remember, we''re still married! You might not care about dragging your family''s name through the mud, but the Gordons? We''ve got a reputation to uphold!" "Really?"


    Walter''s excuse seemed to hold water, at least a little.


    Evangeline was stuck on something else.


    "Hank back to thepany... It was you, wasn''t it?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 152

    Chapter 152


    Evangeline''s suspicions were well-founded.


    The Fosters would not sabotage their own empire, and in Avalon City, the only one with the means and the boredom to pull off such a stunt was Walter.


    She had expected him to at least y dumb. Clearly, she had yed down how low he could stoop.


    "What if it was me?"


    "What if it was you?" Evangeline''s anger surged, finding a perfect target as she confronted him head-on. "Tell, me Mr. Walter Gordon. Since when is toying with thepany aughing matter?" Gordon Group was Trey''s pride and joy. Walter, as his grandson, should have known better than to mess with it.


    "Really? You''re one to talk! Making a spectacle by almost kissing Hank in front of everyone... Weren''t you the one treating ourpany like it was some kind of joke? All I did was pull a little stunt to clean up our act," Walter shot back, standing his ground. "Should I just sit back and watch you trash the good names of Gordon Group and Foster Group? Do nothing?" Walter''s words sounded legitimate at first, but they were just a bunch of hot air when listened back.


    "Walter, we''re practically divorced, just a paper away. Don''t you think it''s a bit of a stretch to use thepany''s rep to push me around? You! You''re out of your mind!" Evangeline''s face went white with rage. She knew Walter could be a piece of work, but she had no idea he could twist things around like a professional.


    Walter''s fists were balled up, his face a shade of angry purple, looking just as bad as Evangeline felt.


    "Me, out of my mind? Evangeline, this is your final heads-up: Stay away from Hank. I''ll let it slide this time, but if there''s a next time, it won''t be as easy as just a dash back to the office."


    Walter did not even let her get a word in before he mmed the door on his way out.


    In the silence of the living room, Evangeline was all alone.


    "Scumbag!"


    She grabbed a pillow from the sofa, pretended it was Walter''s face, and chucked it as hard as she could. Walter had note home all night, and Evangeline had not caught a single minute of sleep either.


    Every time she shut her eyes, images of Walter''s furious face and Hank''s disappointed gaze haunted her.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    She admitted to herself that she had messed up.


    Even if she was determined to cut Walter out of her life for good, to erase him from her memory and give Hank a chance, she should not have treated anyone that way. The least she could do was properly end things with Walter and get her own feelings straight before she was ready to dive into something new.


    She owed Hank an apology, and she had no excuse. ying with Hank''s feelings just to get what she wanted was just in wrong, a serious misstep in the game of love.


    Grabbing a car from the garage without much thought, Evangeline rose early and headed to the office.


    Considering Hank had not called or texted her all night about any updates, Walter''stest drama must''ve been a big deal. Maybe Hank was still at the office, pulling an all-nighter.


    She was right. As she walked into the office with a bag of delicious-smelling breakfast, she spotted Hank,pletely wiped out, snoozing at his desk.


    Just then, Wade, the assistant, popped in, ready to fill her in. Evangeline shushed him with a quick gesture.


    She set the breakfast down, turned, and stepped out of Hank''s office with Wade.


    "Mr. Tarp has really pulled off a miracle. He''s sorted out all thepany''s issues."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 153

    Chapter 153


    Evangeline had seen thising, and Wade''s confirmation did not raise an eyebrow. "Let him know he can head home for some rest once he''s up. He''s had a rough night and deserves a break."


    Hank had only just started working with her, and she felt a twinge of guilt for roping him into her problems so quickly. She owed him an apology, sure, but she would find the right moment-somethingid-back and fitting Just then, the receptionist dashed up the stairs, breathless, "Ms. Evangeline, your parents are downstairs asking for you."


    Evangeline was taken aback. No one else but Andrew and Lydia would dare im to be her parents. She had them under surveince since theirst fiery argument, and somehow, they had given her watchers the slip. Perfect timing, she thought. She had been meaning to confront them anyway.


    What Evangeline had not anticipated was the chaos her parents were causing at the front desk. Andrew plopped down on the reception couch, legs crossed arrogantly, barking orders at the receptionist, "Is this how you treat Ms. Evangeline''s dad?" The overwhelmed receptionist scrambled to amodate them. "Would you like some tea, or perhaps juice?"


    "A tea for me," Andrew decided, then turned to Lydia. "What about you? With Evangeline''s busy schedule, we might be here for a while. Get whatever you''d like!"This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Lydia was seated across from Andrew, and although she had been a bit nervous about dealing with Foster Group, his words quickly put her at ease.


    "I''m all worked up; I could use a ss of orange juice," she said.


    Evangeline walked in just in time to catch them both acting like they owned the ce, bossing around her staff.


    She cut off the receptionist, who was on her way to fetch the drink. "Don''t bother with anything; you can go."


    With that move, Evangeline might as well have smacked them right in their smug faces.


    The receptionist looked stunned, but after getting a reassuring nod from Evangeline,


    With the door about #t was pret Evangeline, en,

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 154

    Evangeline settled into the main chat and


    study h len


    sury? Why are you two here?


    she had heard from her team that these e slly on the base


    syen nervous about something as sus


    simp do


    they mos e hers


    the wee fuming at the mention of it. Would you even as losteon


    Evangeline scoffed. I''m not a mind reader How would ow


    twice about tangling with the 54


    g


    Healizing arguing with Evangeline was getting them nowhere spray the point, "Zinght, enough games. Where have you twen


    Evangeline was totally blindeded by the question myself and to know unes Julie le Eve been on the hunt for ages and haven''t caught even a glimpse of her


    ed her brain, but never in a dillion years did she see thising- demanding someone from her


    Lydia shot up, her presence fierce, as she grilled Evangeline, "You''ve squirreled away our darling daughter, and now you have the gerve to ask me for her? You''ve been sander my nose all these years, and boy oh boy, you''ve really shown your true colors. Who would we guessed?


    "Exangeline, you''re quite the actress. It''s a real shame you''re not making a ssh in Holywood"


    Andrew was right there, tossing in his own jabs and jeers. "Seriously, I never


    imagined my own kid could change like this, I can''t even guess what kind of spell the Foster family has cast on her!


    "But none of that matters to us now. You''ve written us off as your folks, but Julia''s a different story. We''re counting on her to care for us when we''re old and gray. What''ll we do if we can''t find her?"


    Andrew got more worked up, even letting a few tears fall right in front of Evangeline.


    Lydia turned to pat Andrew''s back, then spun and barked at Evangeline again. You''ve seen your dad''s take on this, Evangeline. Hand her over, quick, and throw in a little something extra for us. As your parents, we won''t give you any more grief. Let''s just close the book on "What a joke." Evangeline scoffed, her body tilting as she slumped into the couch." Can''t find your own daughter? Sounds like you''ve failed parenting. Whye to me? Got any proof I took Julia?"


    This couple had some nerve, using her like they were innocent. They were probably the ones hiding Julia, yet they were trying to pin it on her. Talk about a shakedown!


    However, what they did not know was that the mention of proof had Andrew and Lydia sweating bullets. Nheless, they could not think of anyone else who could have pulled a hidden Julia except Evangeline.


    Lydia steeled herself, ready to go aggressive against Evangeline. "We wouldn''t be here if we weren''t sure," she bluffed.


    Do wow wow get that what you''re doing is katnapping? That''s illegal, o and bare faster than you can say oops if the cops show up! I''m tel the maternae. It do whatever it takes for my daughter,


    ull be


    you. quit


    Thame, and get the cops here so fast make your head spin-and it won''t be


    Lydia figured Evangeline was just a kid who did not know the ropes, not like herself- a seasoned professional. She was certainly in for a surprise.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Evangeline did not miss a beat. "No need to get ugly. Go ahead, call the cops. You''re making such a scene, and I can''t even focus on my work upstairs. Just call them.


    then they get here, they can dig into whatever mess Julia''s gotten herself into She''s the one who vanished, but now we''re all caught up in her drama!"


    in the heat of the argument, Evangeline''s voice dripped with scorn, her words nearly


    Lydia was not having any of it.


    "You think I''m clueless? With the Foster Group''s clout in Avalon City, which cop would dare spill the beans? They''re all in your pocket, buddy-buddy with Foster Group aren''t they?


    Evangeline gave a helpless shrug. "Well, if that''s how you see it, I''m out of options. I sold you to call the cops, I''ve been nothing but helpful with your investigation into Ju''s case, and now you''re using us of being in bed with the police.


    f you can''t solve the problem, why stick around the Foster Group building? Beat it, Before you be more of a nuisance and hold up my work!


    Since we''reying it all out, let me make one thing crystal clear: Foster Group doesn''t do legal stuff, and don''t you dare try to pin any dirty cop business on us-


    we wont stand for it. Maybe it''s yourpany that''s been up to no good, so you figure everyone''s got to cozy up to the police. But hey, that''s your mess, not mine. "haytong do not get lost. This is a business, not your living room where you can

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 155

    Chapter 155


    With the dismissal as easy as flicking a switch, Evangeline''s patience h. longer willing to waste another second on the two standing before her.


    un dry, no


    "You!" Lydia, her face flushed with fury and her neck bulging, pointed a trembling finger but could not find the words.


    Evangeline, facing them, pointed too, but with a twist-she held up three fingers, a silent but clear message.


    "Three seconds. That''s all you get before I call security to boot you out of here!"


    Andrew caught the no-nonsense look in Evangeline''s eyes and realized she was not ying around.


    Then, his eyes welled up.


    "Evie, after all this time apart, is this how you treat your old man?" His voice cracked, dripping with a mix of sorrow and self-pity.


    Evangeline was baffled.


    What was this old guy trying to pull with this sudden drama?


    She stayed silent, just watching Andrew''s show unfold.


    Tears were already streaming down his face as he spoke, "I get it, you''ve been mad at me for years for not sticking around, for marrying Lydia instead. But I''m human too. And now that you''ve been through a divorce, you should get where I''ming from, right?" This sudden heart-to-heart was so out of left field that Evangeline could not believe


    this was Andrew talking.


    "Andrew, cut the crap."


    Their bond as father and daughter had been shattered long ago when he blindly sided with Julia. What was the point of this charade?


    He had never shown her kindness, and she owed him no parental respect.


    Evangeline never liked to sell herself short. She dismissed Andrew''s nonsensical rambling as if it were just hot air.


    Andrew, knowing he was at fault, did not dare to get into the nitty-gritty with her and


    A


    quickly switched gears.


    "Look, I just want to make things right with you, Evie. Like it or not, you'' not my blood in your veins. There''s no such thing as a grudge thatsts overni


    1. us. No matter what, you''ll always be daddy''s little girl!"


    That was a statement that caught her attention.


    Evangeline raised an eyebrow. "So, I''m your favorite daughter now?"


    Andrew bobbed his head like he was smashing garlic cloves.


    between


    *And what about Julia? Unless I''ve got it twisted, both of you showed up here to get me to cough up someone, right?"


    Things were shifting way too fast, so fast Evangeline could not even catch her breath.


    What she did not realize was that she was not the only one trying to keep up. Lydia was totally lost too.


    "You old geezer, weren''t we supposed to be on the hunt for Julia? What are you even talking about?"


    Andrew''s eyes narrowed. "What do you know, you old bat? Zip it, will you?"


    He yanked Lydia behind him and turned back to Evangeline with a grin.


    "I''ve made up my mind. Sure, Julia''s my kid too, but she''s been nothing but headaches. I can''t bail her out anymore. I swear to you, right here, right now, I, Andrew, have only one daughter, and that''s you, Evangeline! "So, Evie, can you find it in your heart to forgive your old man?"


    GET IT NOW


    X


    Suret m


    peine''s wes


    SEA E VONT DE e bought up his hand and mate a ME with he hakkess J Le ter fend for herself out


    Toms side


    She and kde se dein the same at nalofa sudden, Andrew was


    ede bra sendingweedwaves wat Evangeline as fire had tossed his


    drew what are you taking of Barceline stares your blood, isn''t Julia just ESTRACT YOU care?


    Buzmeny sumetting dicker in her mind and she let out a fiulugh. "Oh, I see what this stor fore is owing to dazu


    to Evangeline now that shesme big Cass of Faster Group nut? Snice Juia''s silmissing and can''t bring in the dough as YOUNGEST CINY she cant hold a candle to the Foster family''s caring princess, can STEP Vore ying a sy game that''s for sure!


    Caught in the act, Andrew''s face went white With Evangeline there, he quickly denied he actuations. What are you even taking about, you crazy olddy? When I ever say Julia wasn''t my kic? That girlscone, and if shees back, sine''s moting tot a headache. Why would Andrew''s eyes were wide with fury.


    The two went back and forth, clearly ready to tear into each other. It was an outright Samily fext


    Evangeline had been nning to dash back to work, but with this show unfolding before her, she suddenly was not in such a hurry.


    A family brawl like this was too good to miss. So, she just leaned back, arms folded, and cetted in to watch the spectacle of Andrew and his wife going at it.


    Lydis nted her hands firmly on her hips, her eyes zing with fury. "Oh, that''s rich, You monster Now she''s just that girl to you, but weren''t you the one who used to


    +15 BONUS


    call her ''weetle and ''my little princess''? Did you just gobble up those words with you dinner?


    en up: Julia matter what.


    1 see how it is-


    you cozy up to whoever shes the cash, huh? Wel is my daughter, always has been, always will be, and I''ll stand by her You''re bailing on her now that she''s hit a rough patch, right? Fine, we''re through! From here on out, you go your way, and we''ll go ours. My daughter a Evangeline rubbed her chin, her interest waning as the argument before her escted. Just watching was starting to get dull.


    Maybe she could spice things up a bit?


    "Excuse me, can I chime in for a second?" she piped up, her voice soft but enough to snag their attention. "You might not be in the loop, but Julia hasn''t vanished. Walter''s the one who''s stashed her away.


    Julia has messed up big time, and I''ve got a bone to pick with her. Walter caught wind and tucked her away before I could get my hands on her. So, if you''re keen on finding Julia, why not knock on Walter''s door?"


    It was a hoot to have them duke it out at her ce, but even that could wear thin after a while.


    Evangeline decided to offload these two headaches onto Walter.


    She was pretty sure Walter was the one hiding Julia anyway, so tipping off Andrew and Lydia did not seem too off-base.


    Who would have guessed? Lydia, upon hearing this, transformed from angry to downright explosive.


    "Don''t you dare think you can push me around, you little flirt! I''ve seen enough years to know what''s what. Ever since you two were kids, you always got the best of everything first. And Julia had to step aside for you so you could have Walter, the catch he is. "You''re the elder sister, for crying out loud! What else do you want from your little sister? Walter''s always had Julia''s back, you see? You can''t force love, and no matter how hard you try, Walter only has eyes for Julia."


    **** que conga dance to get a ***


    huur waar signs these Anbew''s set long time ago. She yanked her hand


    dp to You just see Matting on Julia and think shend you


    at wand anther day of hist


    des with p i want a divorce No, wait, I''m calling Walfer right this die wet as we fed Jul were going to the County Clerk''s Office I can''t


    momener Lydia excited, whipping out her phone to dial


    a


    a sadat she got was a busy signal. Lydia pocketed her phone with


    car "Wher''s the big boss at Gordon Group, probably fed up in bag and cart Softer with me Well, good You just stew in quilt When my janes i afin me away, you''ll be green with regret, and be tooter


    so weeg quiet any longer. Need me to try calling him


    wat tees with Water earlier that morning for a pre-pregnancy check-up and way to would be in a meeting so critical that he could not take a call.


    to telo was driven more by curiosity than goodwill, though


    eung for Ladies grahead, Evangline dialed Walter''s number. After just a


    set dog whooth voice came through. "What''s up? His tone wasThis belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    borgene was used to his to nonsense way of talking and did not


    beat around the bush. To make sure Lydia could catch every word, she hit the speaker button. "It''s something big.


    "Julia''s mom is at my office right now, so you bettere quick and pick her up."


    Evangeline was already on edge. If it had not been for the drama between Andrew and Lydia grabbing her attention, she would have kicked them out ages ago. She was not exactly brimming with patience for Walter, either. Walter, though, was cool as a cucumber, even when annoyed.


    "Okay."


    The call was over.


    Lydia could not hide her glee.


    "Look, Walter''s heart is totally wrapped up in Julia! Face it, Evangeline, you don''t stand a chance. The title of Mrs. Gordon is reserved for Julia and Julia alone!"

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    Chapter 156


    Andrew''s words were dripping with earnestness as he stared into Evangeline''s eyes with honesty.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    He did not even wait for her to say a word before he brought up his hand and made a solemn vow, "I swear, I''m done with that thankless Julia. Let her fend for herself out, there!" Evangeline just watched him calmly, trying to decode his game n.


    Lydia, on the other hand, was not about to let this slide.


    She and Andrew used to be in the same boat, but all of a sudden, Andrew was bending over backward to prove his loyalty to Evangeline, as if he had tossed his own interests aside! "Andrew, what are you talking about? If Evangeline shares your blood, isn''t Julia just as much your daughter?"


    Suddenly, something clicked in her mind, and she let


    out a scornfulugh. "Oh, I see what this is about. You''re just trying to cozy up to Evangeline now that she''s the big boss of Foster Group, huh? Since Julia''s still missing and can''t bring in the dough as your cash cow, she can''t hold a candle to the Foster family''s darling princess, can she? You''re ying a sly game, that''s for sure!"


    Caught in the act, Andrew''s face went white. With Evangeline


    there, he quickly denied the usations. "What are you even talking about, you crazy olddy? When did I ever say Julia wasn''t my kid? That girl''s gone, and if shees back, she''s nothing but a headache. Why would we even want her around?" Andrew''s eyes were wide with fury.


    The two went back and forth, clearly ready to tear into each other. It was an outright family feud.


    Evangeline had been nning to dash back to work, but with this show unfolding before her, she suddenly was not in such a hurry.


    A family brawl like this was too good to miss. So, she just leaned back, arms folded, and settled in to watch the spectacle of Andrew and his wife going at it.


    Lydia nted her hands firmly on her hips, her eyes zing with fury. "Oh, that''s rich, you monster! Now she''s just ''that girl'' to you, but weren''t you the one who used to


    call her ''sweetie'' and ''my little princess''? Did you just gobble up those words with your dinner?


    "I see how it is-you cozy up to whoever shes the cash, huh? Well, listen up: Julia is my daughter, always has been, always will be, and I''ll stand by her no matter what. You''re bailing on her now that she''s hit a rough patch, right? Fine, we''re through! From here on out, you go your way, and we''ll go ours. My daughter and I are done with you!"


    Evangeline rubbed her chin, her interest waning as the argument before her escted. Just watching was starting to get dull.


    7


    Maybe she could spice things up a bit?


    "Excuse me, can I chime in for a second?" she piped up, her voice soft but enough to snag their attention. "You might not be in the loop, but Julia hasn''t vanished. Walter''s the one who''s stashed her away.


    "Julia has messed up big time, and I''ve got a bone to pick with her. Walter caught wind and tucked her away before I could get my hands on her. So, if you''re keen on finding Julia, why not knock on Walter''s door?"


    It was a hoot to have them duke it out at her ce, but even that could wear thin after a while.


    Evangeline decided to offload these two headaches onto Walter.


    She was pretty sure Walter was the one hiding Julia anyway, so tipping off Andrew and Lydia did not seem too off-base.


    Who would have guessed? Lydia, upon hearing this, transformed from angry to downright explosive.


    "Don''t you dare think you can push me around, you little flirt! I''ve seen enough years to know what''s what. Ever since you two were kids, you always got the best of everything first. And Julia had to step aside for you so you could have Walter, the catch he is. "You''re the elder sister, for crying out loud! What else do you want from your little sister? Walter''s always had Julia''s back, you see? You can''t force love, and no matter how hard you try, Walter only has eyes for Julia."

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    Chapter 157


    "Evangeline, can''t you just let it go? You''ve wrecked your sister''s chance at happiness. Are you really going to keep up this charade?" Lydia''s usations hit Evangeline like a wave of confusion.


    na [.


    What charade had she been keeping up? The truth was that she was dead set on a divorce, and Walter was the one who would not let go!


    He even had the nerve to drag her grandfather, Cole, into this, pressuring her to start a family with him. It was downright vile!


    However, Andrew did not even give Evangeline the chance to get a word in.


    He grabbed Lydia''s hand, his voice filled with anguish, "You knew all along that Julia was taken by Walter?Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Why didn''t you tell me sooner?! You have no idea how worried I''ve been about


    Julia''s situation..."


    Lydia had seen right through Andrew''s act a long time ago. She yanked her hand away. "Worried, my foot! You just see Walter doting on Julia and think she''llnd you a rich son-inw! I can''t stand another day of this!


    "Andrew, I''m done with you. I want a divorce! No, wait, I''m calling Walter right this second. As soon as we find Julia, we''re going to the County Clerk''s Office. I can''t stand to wait another moment!" Lydia eximed, whipping out her phone to dial Walter''s number. However, call after call, all she got was a busy signal. Lydia pocketed her phone with an awkward chuckle, "Walter''s the big boss at Gordon Group, probably tied up in some meeting and can''t bother with me! Well, good. You just stew in guilt! When my son-in-wes to whisk me away, you''ll be green with regret, and it''ll be toote!"


    Evangeline could not keep quiet any longer. "Need me to try calling him?"


    She had just been with Walter earlier that morning for a pre-pregnancy check-up and knew it was unlikely he would be in a meeting so critical that he could not take a call. Evangeline''s offer to help was driven more by curiosity than goodwill, though. Without waiting for Lydia''s go-ahead, Evangeline dialed Walter''s number. After just a couple of rings, his deep, smooth voice came through, "What''s up?" His tone was cool, detached. Evangeline was used to his no-nonsense way of talking and did not


    beat around the bush. To make sure Lydia could catch every word, she hit the speaker button. "It''s something big.


    "Julia''s mom is at my office right now, so you bettere quick and pick her up."


    Evangeline was already on edge. If it had not been for the drama between Andrew and Lydia grabbing her attention, she would have kicked them out ages ago. She was not exactly brimming with patience for Walter, either.


    Walter, though, was cool as a cucumber, even when annoyed.


    "Okay."


    The call was over.


    Lydia could not hide her glee.


    "Look, Walter''s heart is totally wrapped up in Julia! Face it, Evangeline, you don''t stand a chance. The title of Mrs. Gordon is reserved for Julia and Julia alone!"

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    Chapter 158


    Andrew was ghostly pale.


    The room turned super awkward in an instant, but Evangeline seemed to be the only one keeping it together.


    She knew all too well how much Julia meant to Walter, so she would not be shocked by anything he did for Julia. Even so, why did her heart still ache like this?


    In front of Andrew and Lydia, she fought hard to keep her hands from clutching at


    her chest.


    How can you still not get it, Evangeline? Walter is all about Julia. You''ve got to let him go!'' she chided herself.


    Walter made it to the Foster Group building in under 10 minutes.


    Stepping into the reception room, his towering figure instantly made it feel cramped.


    Lydiatched onto Walter''s arm like he was her lifeline. "Walter, that vixen Evangeline imed Julia was with you! Is that for real?


    "You''ve been guarding Julia like she''s some state secret. Why didn''t you clue me in sooner? We, the old folks, need a little peace of mind, you know!


    "But you know, Julia''s had it rough from the start with a dad who''s as reliable as a leaf in the wind. But things are different now, Walter. You''re Julia''s rock. With you looking out for her, I can finally rest easy as her mom..."


    Lydia''s eyes brimmed with tears as she spoke, her gaze fixed on Walter, her hand dabbing at her eyes.


    Evangeline watched from the sidelines, her knowing look saying it all.


    She had always wondered if Julia''s knack for drama came from some secret acting sses. Upon seeing Lydia in action, who needed sses? Clearly, the apple did not fall far from the tree, though it seemed Julia missed out on the master ss! Walter, though, was caught between a rock and a hard ce.


    Evangeline had demanded Julia, and he had refused. Lydia was asking this time, and Evangeline was betting Walter would not dare say no.


    Walter took a etep back from 1ydia His expusin tuming grave, and he said. "Julia''s been under my wing but the''s not in Avalor my anymore"


    Lydia perked up immediately. "new it, I knew it You sant Julia overseas, didn''t you? You''re worried stenut Evangeline, that wild child, causing her grief. Ito get it, I do


    Walter just cracked a cold umple, pulled out a thick envelope from his jacket, and


    thrust it into Lydia''s handeBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Lydia you''ve got it all wrong


    1


    Julia had made her own bed, and now she had to lie in it. I''ve sent her off to


    Northern Montavia. Here, take a look at these photos I brought for you, a little something to remember her by," he said, with a twisted sense of consideration for her maternal feelings. Lydia was in shock, her mind a total nk. She opened the envelope on autopilot


    and pulled out the photos.


    The first one showed Julia, her head being forced down onto a desk, with a guy behind her grinning like he had won the lottery.


    Julia was a mess, her face swollen and bruised, lying on a cold concrete floor, barely


    hanging on.


    The third... Well, each picture was worse than thest, the kind of stuff one would tum away from.


    Lydia''s hands shook harder as she flipped through them, and she could not bring herself to look any further.


    "Walter, you monster! How could you do this to Julia?!" she yelled, her voice filled with rage, clutching the damning photos.


    Walter calmly shrugged off her anger like it was nothing.


    *She made her own mess, and now she''s got to deal with it. Not my problem," he said without a hint of sympathy.


    Poor Lydia, she totally lost it.


    "No!" she screamed, backing away. "You monsters! How could you send our sweet Julia to that hellhole in Northern Montavia? You''re trafficking people, and

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    Chapter 159


    Evangeline watched the drama unfold with a serene expression. {ould not believe the wordsing out of Walter''s mouth, but she stayed cool and collected, curious to see how he would wiggle his way out of Lydia''s wild usations. Walter just put a finger to his lips and shushed her-as if that would make everything alright.


    Lydia''s voice dropped to a whisper as she locked eyes with Walter, her gaze wide with fear. "What are you nning? You''re not thinking of shipping me off to Northern Montavia too, are you?"


    Walter let out a scoff, his words dripping with scorn. "As if! You''re way past your prime, and your organs are hardly worth anything. They''d probablyin about having to feed you for nothing if we sent you to Northern Montavia!"


    His sneer was like a knife, cutting deeper into Lydia''s hopelessness. "I just wanted to give you a little heads-up," he said coolly. "The cops... They''re here already."


    He had dialed 911 the moment he arrived with that incriminating photo.


    It was high time for the truth toe out and for the innocent to be cleared of me.


    He had not expected things to move this fast, but when Andrew and Lydia showed up to torment Evangeline, he could not stand by.


    Just then, the door swung open, and a squad of police officers in uniform stepped into the room. The officer in charge held out an arrest warrant to Lydia and Andrew.


    "Are you Andrew and Lydia?" he asked. "The circumstances surrounding Ms. Yessica''s death were suspicious, and the police are reopening the investigation into your alleged conspiracy to murder her. As the main suspects, you''ll need toe with us for questioning." The cold, gleaming handcuffs clicked around Lydia and Andrew''s wrists.


    Lydia was not ready to give up. "We''ll cooperate with your investigation, but what about him?" She jabbed a finger at Walter, her voice seething with anger. "He''s the one who sold my daughter Julia to Northern Montavia. Why aren''t you arresting him too?"


    The officer began to exin, his voice steady and authoritative, "After a thorough investigation, we''ve confirmed that Julia was tricked into going to Northern


    ine


    Montavia. Mr. Walter has been incredibly helpful, providing lots of leads. I promise you, our police are on it and will find her as quickly as possible so sh home soon."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Lydia was blindsided. The man she had pegged as her daughter''s perfect match, the one she trusted, turned out to be the very person who sent her to Northern Montavia. Worse, he was in cahoots with the cops and had dodged thew''s grip! It all started because of Evangeline, that skank!


    Without Evangeline in the picture, her Julia would have married Walter as nned, bing the high and mighty Mrs. Walter Gordon. How did ite to this, her ending up in Northern Montavia?


    Fuming, Lydia clenched her teeth and yanked at the officer ushering her out. "Hold on, I''ve got one more thing to say."


    Walter''s about-face was so extreme, it left Evangeline reeling. All she wanted was to get rid of the twin disasters, Andrew and Lydia, so she could confront Walter and get


    some answers.


    Out of nowhere, Lydia halted, and before anyone could react, she whipped out a knife, its de catching the light, and lunged at Evangeline!


    Evangeline, protected by her bodyguards and facing a middle-aged woman with no real skill inbat, was not worried. She did not even flinch.


    The bodyguards were too slow to react, though.


    Evangeline was toote to dodge.


    In that split second, a towering figure appeared out of nowhere, shielding her...

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    Chapter 160


    Everything happened in a blur, so fast that Evangeline could not wrap her head around it. When she snapped back to reality, she saw Walter staggering in front of her, his body about to copse. The bodyguards were quick to catch him. Evangeline moved to face him, about to ask if he was okay, when she noticed the sharp knife from Lydia''s hand buried in Walter''s stomach, blood pouring out like a crimson fountain.


    Chaos erupted around them. Walter, hurt and unable to think straight, acted on pure instinct. He ripped the knife out and lunged at the person who had caused all this


    mess.


    The cops were just as shocked, rushing in and yelling, "Mr. Walter Gordon, please calm down!" In the nick of time, they pulled Lydia back, and the knife meant for her heart only shed her arm. Lydia was spared, but Walter, drained from the effort, copsed. The cops could not waste another second. They whisked Lydia and Andrew off to the squad car.


    Walter''s assistant David and the paramedics showed up together, rushing the unconscious Walter to the hospital.


    The reception room was deserted. The drama had ended. Evangeline stared at Walter''s blood on her hands, struggling to process if the madness that had just unfolded was reality or some twisted dream. Walter had not kept Julia safe; he had sent her off to Northern Montavia. All that, and Walter himself had been stabbed in an attempt to save her life?N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    On the sleek wooden floor, the knife Walter had yanked outy silently, its de smeared with his bright red blood...


    Wade burst into the room, anxious and flustered, and nearly froze at the sight that greeted him.


    "Ms. Evangeline, what''s going on? You''re bleeding!"


    His shout snapped Evangeline back to reality.


    She nced down at her hands.


    It was only then that she remembered the blood stter from when Walter had drawn his knife with too much force, marking her hands and sshing across her


    clothes


    I''m fine. I''ll just wash up in the bathroom."


    She had to get back to her office, and she would have to pass by her colleagues at Foster Group. She did not want to scare them with her messy state.


    After cleaning her hands, Evangeline peeled off her bloodied coat and handed it to Wade.


    "Ms. Evangeline, I came as fast as I could when I heard Andrew and Lydia had gotten away, but I guess I was still toote..."


    "It''s okay," Evangeline sighed.


    What was done was done, and she was not the one hurt, so why should she care?


    "How did they get out? Weren''t you supposed to have someone on them?"


    She was starting to wonder if the Fosters had hired a bunch of ipetent bodyguards. They could not keep tabs on Julia, nor Andrew and his wife.


    To top that off, they could not even protect her, forcing Walter to step in and take a knife for her!


    Wade, knowing the full story, felt a twinge of sympathy for the guards who were getting the raw end of the deal.


    "Look, it''s not our crew''s fault. Lydia and Andrew are the sneaky ones! Since we sent our guys over, those two have been ying nice, not stepping a toe out


    of line. But then, out of the blue, Lydia''s like, ''I want to grab some breakfast. And while she''s chatting up our guy, Andrewes out of nowhere with a stick and-bam!-knocks them out before they even know what''s happening!"

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    Chapter 161


    425 BONUS


    Evangeline huffed in annoyance. "If they hadn''t let their guard down, Andrew wouldn''t have had his chance. Whatever, just remind your guy to be more careful next time."


    Dwelling on the bodyguards'' slip-up was pointless. It was not something worth her precious time.


    Then Wade brought up something else. "Um... Mr. Walter Gordon''s in surgery right now. The knife got him pretty deep, and he lost a lot of blood. You thinking about dropping by to check on him?" He nced at Evangeline''s face as he said it.


    The whole of Avalon City was buzzing with the news that Evangeline was nning to divorce Walter. Even Wade, her ever-present assistant, could not quite figure out


    how she felt about Walter.


    "No, I need some quiet time," Evangeline replied, pressing a hand to her forehead.


    This day had been a whirlwind, with one revtion after another shaking her whole worldview of Walter. She had to get her thoughts straight before she could even think about how to deal with him. It was best to avoid seeing him for a while.


    "Also, the big birthday celebration for you is tomorrow. They''ll being into town tonight. Since Mr. Walter got hurt at the Foster Group''s main office, the news is all over the ce. Looks like we can''t keep a lid on it." Evangeline thought it over for a second and then resigned herself to the situation.


    "If we can keep it quiet, we''ll keep it quiet."


    Walter had only one thing on his mind when he decided to keep quiet about the ident: He did not want to worry his grandfather Trey and make his health take a nosedive.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Laid up with injuries, Walter knew there was no way he would make it to her birthday party. Surely, it would not take long for the secret to spill out, media or no media.


    "When are my unclesnding? I''ll head to the airport myself to pick them up."


    At Avalon City General Hospital, Walter was a ghostly figure against the stark white


    Caden, who had dashed to the hospital the second he heard, found Walter awake and could not help but give him an earful.


    *Seriously, what were you thinking, trying to be some kind of hero? You can''t even look after yourself, and there you go, jumping in front of a knife for Evangeline! Did it even cross your mind how much Trey would freak out if you got hurt?" Walter''s voice was a raspy whisper as he came around, "Does Grandpa know?"


    Trey was always the fragile one, and he had been fretting over Walter and Evangeline for ages.


    Should Trey learn of his injuries, Walter would never forgive himself for the worry he would cause.


    Cagen was quick to soothe him, "Let him find out? Are you kidding? I don''t think he can handle that kind of shock,"


    Walter nodded, a weight lifted. As long as Trey was in the dark, he could rest easy. Caden was not done yet, still going on about it.


    "What was it all for, huh? You rush into surgery for Evangeline, and what does she do? Doesn''t even give you a second look. Talk about taking a hit for nothing."


    Just then, David burst in, bringing thetest update,


    "Got word just now. Mr. Alex Gordon is on the night flight back, and thedy''s already en route to the airport."


    It was a no brainer why Evangeline was heading to the airport.


    Under the covers, Walter''s hand clenched into a fist so tight that it almost shook with barely contained emotion.


    Evangeline, does Alex mean that much to you? I was ready to risk it all for you, lying there in the operating room, and you didn''t even give me a look. Instead, you''re off to the airport to wee him like he''s the star of the show! Today''s Bowes Offer

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 162

    The Foster troup''s private airstrip was just a stone''s throw on the public one


    Evangte and Wade got there just as two iwanky private jete were touching down


    Evangeline was bussing with excitement. Which two of her uncles would be stepping off the nes?


    ter uncles had struck out on their own when they were just kids, so even though she was raised by her grandfather, she had not really gotten to know all of them. It was something she always felt a little bummed about.


    With her birthday celebration bringing everyone together though, she figured it would be a st for them and a real treat for Cole.


    The nes came to a halt, and as soon as they stopped, the hatch on the ne to Evangeline''s left swung open.


    A tall guy in a crisp white outfit and shades made his way down the steps.


    On the right, a dude wearing a cool ck getup with a hip hop vibe hairstyle stepped off the other ne.


    Evangeline saw both uncles disembark at the same time and was torn on who to greet first. So, she just grabbed Wade and decided to wait.


    ""Hey there, uncles!"


    Uncle Holden, the third in line, whipped off his sunsses and gave Evangeline a once over, cracking a joke, "Evie, can you tell us apart? Are you sure we''re the uncles you''re looking for?"


    Evangeline was in a real pickle. The Fosters had their own airstrip, so there was no way she could have picked up the wrong person. Her Uncle Yale had not given her any info on her uncles, whose identities were pretty much a mystery. She did not want to snoop around h


    She gave a sheepish grin and tried to y it cool. "Guess I didn''t think this through. Mind introducing yourself, Uncle, so I don''t mess up again in the future?"


    Holden caught the embarrassed look on Evangeline''s face and it clicked. He remembered someone who looked just like that. He could not help butugh out loodContent ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Even your cops'' face is a dead giveaway. You''re totally one of us Fosters, no


    question!


    I''m Uncle Holden, the middle child out of the five brothers. This guy here..."


    He nudged the boy next to him, who was decked out in hip-hop gear. "Meet Aemon Foster, the second youngest of us."


    Evangeline took a good look at her Aemon and could not quite mask her astonishment.


    She had thought Uncle James was a real heartbreaker, but Aemon was on a whole other level. If it were not for his over-the-top hip-hop outfit and the funky bling on his face, Uncle Aemon would be a knockout! "Holden, Aemon, you must''ve had a long trip. Grandpa''s also waiting at home, all worried. Why don''t we head back and catch up more?"


    "Sounds good, sounds good,"


    Out of nowhere, a sleek ck Land Rover rolled up.


    Evangeline could tell right away that this was no ordinary ride.


    Was this... a bulletproof car?


    Holden and Aemon did not bat an eye as they put Wade in the driver''s seat, leaving him to sit there all by his lonesome. The rest of the family piled into the back, with Evangeline''s uncles nking her on both sides. They did not even wait until they were home to start grilling her.


    "Evie, how''s it going? Are you safe? That jerk Walter hasn''t messed with you, has he?" Holden''s voice was heavy with concern, his brow furrowed deeply.


    "No way. With you guys looking out for me, Walter wouldn''t dare."


    "That''s what I thought."


    Aemon, who had been quiet, let out a cold huff.


    "I always knew Andrew was no good, but our dear sister just had to say yes. Nothing could''ve stopped her."

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    Chapter


    "Now we''ve got you, Evie, and there''s no way we''re letting you get gh that again, letting that lower push you around!"


    Aemon''s hats were clenched tight, his face mask of anger


    "Absolutely! Walter''s not getting off easy!"


    Holden jumped in, his tone even more biting than Aemen''s


    "We''re going to make that awful couple pay! They''ll apologise to Evie in front of


    everyone! Tomorrow! I want the whole world to know you don''t mess with the Fosters, A tiger is still a tiger, even without its teeth. We might be running a clean business now, but we''re still the Fosters, and nobody better forget it!" Evangeline watched Aemon and Holden speaking with such passion. She fell a mix of relief and concern stirring inside her.


    The Foster family had not always had it easy, but thanks to Cole''s heroic smarts, her uncles enjoyed a life of peace and stability. Evangeline knew their happiness was hard-won, and she could not bear the thought of her uncles facing turmoil again just for her sake. "Thank you, dear Uncle Holden, but you really don''t have to go to all this trouble. Waller and I aren''t meant to be, but our familjes have a deal, and that doesn''t mean we have to be enemies, right? If ites down to it, we''ll just keep things strictly business," As Evangeline pondered Waller''s behavior toward Andrew and his family, a wave of indescribable feelings washed over her. The recent events made her feel like she was miles away from understanding the real Walter, as if she had never truly seen who he was. She did not even know if he was a good guy or a bad guy in her life. How could she let her uncles jump in and take sides without knowing the whole story?


    However, Holden had seen thising and


    put right to the chase, "Evie, you''re still young and haven''t seen much of the world yet. You don''t get how men work! Let me tell you, don''t get caught up in Waller''s little bets of kindness. Even if he seems nice now, it''s probably not going tost. "Being a princess of the Foster family, you have a lot to offer more than he''s ever dared to dream of. His niceness might not be all that sincere."


    His words hit hard, leaving Evangeline without aeback.


    Holden gently patted Evangeline''s shoulder with a reassuring harUpstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    "I heard that Walter''s been giving you a hard time, right? Don''t sweat it, your uncles will show that guy that nobody messes with our Evie!" Evangeline saw how determined Holden was and realized arguing was pointless, 56 she let it go.


    Walter was not exactly a pushover, and she was rather curious to see how he would fare against her uncles.


    When Evangeline''s crew got to the Foster family''s old ce, Yale, her eldest uncle, and James, her youngest uncle, were already there.


    Only Uncle Jack, her second eldest uncle, had not shown up yet.


    Still, having the five Foster brothers all in one ce was a big deal. It did not happen often, maybe once every 10 years or so.


    Everyone was in high spirits for the reunion. Cole, who was usually all serious, could not help but crack a smile when he saw his sons doing so well for themselves, and his grin got even wider when Evangeline showed up. "Evie,e over here, stand by Grandpa."


    Cole beckoned Evangeline over, pulling her close and holding her hand affectionately as he marveled, "Time flies! Before you know it, Evie''s all grown up, haven''t you?" Today''s Bonus O

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    Chapter 164


    Evangeline stood right by Cole, blushing a file from the atte


    attention


    That''s right, I''ve got to grow up so I can take good care


    ying along with Cole''s sentiment


    Her sweet words made Cole''s heart swell with pride.


    "Sweetheart, you''re so charming!Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    andpal" she chimed in,


    As they chatted, a thought seemed to strike Cole out of the blue. "You know, when ites to being dutiful, Walter''s really something. Without him getting that top doctor, Dr. George, I wouldn''t have bounced back so fast. Now, all I''m waiting for is some great news from you "If you could give me the chance to cuddle my precious great-grandkid, I could close my eyes this very second and say I''ve lived a full life!"


    Evangeline could not help but roll her eyes at the non-stoppliments.


    Was Walter that generous? She had to make a trade for his help, did she not?


    That was something she could not admit, though. Grandpa Cole was just starting to get better, and if anything about her and Walter set back his recovery, that would be on her.


    The uncles had better keep a poker face about it all, or Cole might catch on!


    "Grandpa, you''re talking nonsense. Walter and I, bringing up a kid? When it''s time, you''ll be the one teaching your treasured great-grandkid all the ropes!" Evangeline finished, her eyes darting cautiously to her uncles, only to notice their smiles seemed a bit forced.


    Luckily, Cole was too focused on Evangeline to pick up on anything else, or it would have been noticed.


    A sh of joy crossed Cole''s eyes, but it disappeared as quickly as it came, and he shook his head. "I''m old, not as sharp as I used to be, and definitely out of touch. How could I possibly help with a kid? You''re just trying to keep me happy with those words." "Come on, you wouldn''t really trust anyone else besides yourself with your precious great-grandkid, would you? So, Grandpa, you''ve got to stay healthy, you know?"


    Cole was on the mend at the old family home, with a team of doctors to look after his every need. The house was like a fortress though, sealed off from the world leaving Cole clueless about what was happening outside.


    "I get it, I get it," he said with a chuckle. "If this old guy can still pitch in for you youngsters, then you bet I''ll keep myself in top shape!"


    Cole used to be the kind of guy whose word wasw, and just the sight of him would send kids scurrying.


    Time had softened him though, and he became the picture of kindness.


    The room erupted withughter at his words, a warm, happy scene that wrapped Evangeline in a nket offort.


    This was exactly what she longed for, was it not?


    The cozy feeling of family, surrounded by the people she held dear.


    The only bittersweet part was that the guy she liked would never be part of her world.


    Still, what if...


    Without thinking, Evangeline''s hand drifted to her belly. If she could really have Walter''s baby, maybe she would have no regrets after all.


    A sudden sadness squeezed her chest, and after a quick word to her uncles, she stepped out for some air.


    Next thing she knew, she was driving to the hospital, as if some unseen force had taken the wheel. When she snapped back to reality, she was standing at Walter''s hospital room door.


    Dusk had settled in, and through the room''s little window, she saw her mother-inw Aria, nodding off beside Walter''s bed.


    Waltery there, his face a ghostly pale, a stark contrast to his usual vibrant, exasperating self.


    Evangeline had never pictured him so vulnerable, so drained of life.

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    Chapter 165


    The thought that Walter was hurt because of her sent a pan rough her heart that she just could not shake off.


    Walter''s eyes fluttered open on the hospital bed, and he spotted Aria keeping vigil by his side. He parted his lips to speak but then thought better of it, his hand shaking as he reached for the water ss on the nightstand. Was he parched?


    Evangeline caught on and, tossing aside any concern for her own bted entrance, burst through the door and hurried to Walter''s side.


    Just as her fingers grazed the ss, Aria, who had only been dozing, snapped awake.


    Spotting Evangeline behind her and seeing Walter''s hand hanging in the air, Aria instantly grasped the situation. She snatched the ss before Evangeline could and ced it firmly in Walter''s grasp. "You finally show up, huh? Some savior you are," said Aria, her voice dripping with


    scorn.


    Her son had been coddled from birth, yet here he was, hurt because of Evangeline. She had not even had the decency to check on him. Heartless!


    What did it matter if Evangeline was the cherished princess of the Foster family?


    A daughter-inw with such a grand reputation, and yet Aria could not count on her. In the end, it was her own son who paid the price.


    "I''m sorry," was all Evangeline could muster,


    No matter the circumstances, Walter had been injured trying to save her, and she had indeed arrived toote.


    Aria scoffed, "My son nearly died for you, faced surgery all by himself, and you think I''m sorry'' cuts it?"


    She had one rule for picking a daughter-inw: She must cherish her son.


    Evangeline, once barely passable with her act of sweetness and smarts, did not even bother with the facade. This was just uneptable!


    She was done with it. If those two wanted a divorce, so be it. She refused to believe


    146 RATUS


    that the Gordon family, with their massive empire, could not make it without Evangeline.


    Evangeline''s face went ghostly white as Aria bore down on


    She tried to smile,


    her mouth opening and closing without a sound, clueless about what to do except maybe to just walk away.


    However, she could not bring herself to leave Walter, not when he was lying there in the hospital bed.


    Just then, Walter, feeling a bit better after sipping some water, finally spoke up," Mom, it''ste. David is here with me, so I''m okay. You should really head home and get some rest." Evangeline and Aria had never gotten along.


    He would not admit that he was trying to protect Evangeline from Aria''s usations. That was not why he wanted his mother to leave.


    He just could not stand the thought of his mother, at her age, losing sleep over him.


    Aria''s heart ached, and tears streamed down her face. "What are you saying, kiddo? I''m your mom. You''re hurt. How can I possibly go home and rest? How could I rest at all?"


    A mother''s worry knew no distance, especially when her only child was lying in a hospital bed.


    Walter got it, he really did, but seeing Evangeline, he just had to be tough. "I''m really okay now, Mom, You should head home,"N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Mothers always knew. As Walter kept insisting and dodging around what to say to Evangeline, Aria caught on to what he was trying to do.


    "Okay, I''ll go. But you-be careful, alright? Don''t move too much and mess up your stitches."


    Even after her reassurances, Aria could not shake off her worries. She nced back repeatedly and gave David a flurry ofst-minute instructions before she could bring herself to leave the hospital room. With that, it was just Evangeline and Walter left in the quiet that seemed to press in from all sides.

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    Chapter 166


    The silence in the room was deafening.


    Evangeline and Walter looked at each other, a million words hanging in the air, yet neither could find their voice.


    Evangeline''s mind buzzed with questions and her heart ached to offerfort, but the words got stuck in her throat at the sight of Walter''s ghostly pale face. Walter had things on his mind too.


    The thought of Evangeline rushing to the airport to pick up Alex, while he was stuck in surgery, left him at a loss for words.


    The silence stretched on, an invisible barrier neither of them could break.


    David, ever so thoughtful, lingered at the door, careful not to intrude, giving them the space they needed.


    Silence had its own way of shattering, though.


    With a grimace, Walter propped himself up, a sharp painncing through his abdomen.


    "You..." Evangeline''s words trailed off as she instinctively reached for a pillow and tucked it gently under Walter''s back. Catching his bewildered look, she mumbled an embarrassed exnation, "It should help you feel a bit better."


    "Mm." Walter''s response was barely audible, his dark eyes hiding a storm of emotions.


    Hisptopy open on the nightstand, a testament to the work he had put off to be with Evangeline for her checkup.


    If only the day had not turned into such a mess, he would have had it all under


    control.


    After his injury, surgery had put him out for too long. Walter knew he could not put off his work any longer.


    Gritting his teeth against the ache in his lower abdomen, he reached for hisputer.


    25 BONUS


    Evangeline caught on to what he was trying to do, but instead of passing him theptop bag, she held him back. "Can you even work in your condition?"


    At that moment, Evangeline''s usual resolve melted away.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    A heavy, silent ache in her heart kept reminding her how much she cared about Walter.


    "It''s fine," Walter said coolly, his strong, defined hand slipping past Evangeline to snatch theptop bag.


    He flipped open theptop and dove into work mode, but not before reminding Evangeline, "It''s gettingte. Have David drive you home."


    That was his polite way of kicking her out.


    Evangeline knew she could not overstay her wee, so she got up to leave.


    Walking down the hospital corridor, David saw Evangeline out and even to her car, making sure she was safely on her way before he went back to the ward.


    What he did not see was Evangeline, sitting in the driver''s seat, gripping the keys with the engine running, but unable to muster the strength to hit the gas.


    She tried several times to drive off but just could not do it. ''Evangeline, Walter''s lying in a hospital bed, still pushing himself to work, and he''s doing it all for you. Can you really just leave him behind?"


    Her conscience would not stop nagging at her, and finally, she lost the battle with her emotions. With a sudden move, she covered her eyes with her hands, surrendering to the tears.


    Evangeline''s hand was damp, and she was surprised to find tears streaming down her face.


    She thought she was all cried out, that Walter had hurt her too much for her to have any tears left. However, anything that reminded her of him still sent her emotions into a tailspin, and the tears flowed like they would never stop. The memory of Walter''s icy demand for her to leave stabbed at her heart, each recollection a painful twist of the knife.


    Still, Walter had gotten hurt trying to save her. She could not just leave him behind, could she?


    At 2 a.m., she stepped out of her car into the chilly bite ofte autumn''s night air.

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    Chapter 167


    Pulling her thin jacket tighter around her, Evangeline shivered and made her way step by step into the hospital. She convinced herself she was not there out of worry for Walter. She was just repaying a debt of gratitude, and that was that.


    The hospital''s night ward was silent. Evangeline tiptoed, but still managed to wake, David, the ever-vignt night watch. She put a finger to her lips, and he nodded, slipping quietly out of the room. "Madam, why haven''t you gone home?" he asked, but then he noticed the redness in her eyes and fell silent.


    "How''s Walter? Is it bad?" she could not help but ask the question that had been burning inside her. She had seen Walter up and about, but without the doctor''s word, she could not shake her worry. "The doctor says it''s just a superficial cut, nothing serious. He''ll be out of here by tomorrow."


    "Oh, that''s a relief," Evangeline sighed, feeling the weight lift off her chest. "I''m going to see him."


    Her voice was unwavering, brooking no argument.


    David lingered outside, while Evangeline tiptoed to Walter''s bedside and eased herself onto the chair.


    Walter''s breaths were steady, hisshes still, not even a hint of pretend slumber. Evangeline could tell that he was really out cold.


    It was kind of ridiculous. They had shared a bed countless times, yet she never really studied Walter''s sleeping face.


    He was ruggedly handsome, with chiseled features and a strong nose, but now his lips were pale and ky with illness.


    The usual fire in him was gone as hey asleep, reced by the innocence of a child, his face softened into a peacefulness that was almost tender,


    If only he could stay this sweet forever.


    The thought jolted her. What was she thinking, wishing him ill just to keep him gentle?


    No, she just wished his softer side would stick around...


    Then, like a lightning strike, the memory of Walter taking a knife for her shed in her mind.


    She could still see the de sinking into his belly.


    Could she dare to look at the scar?Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    This was the first time Walter had ever done anything for her. She wanted to memorize that scar, to remember that he had suffered for her sake.


    That way, when they split, she could shed her jealousy and let him chase his own slice of happiness.


    With that in mind, Evangeline''s hand shook as she reached for Walter''s nket. However, before she could pull it back, her hand was caught in an icy, firm grip. "Evangeline, I thought you left. Why are you still hanging around?" Walter was lying in the hospital bed, his eyes piercing, his expression icy to the core. Getting caught in the middle of the act was the worst feeling.


    Moreover, Walter''s grip on her wrist was so tight that Evangeline could not wiggle free no matter how hard she tried.


    She fought the awkwardness creeping up on her and forced a breezy tone, "Look, you saved my life. The least I could do is swing by to say thanks."


    "Really? Since when are you the type to mind your manners, Evangeline?"


    He knew he was her savior, so why had Evangeline not hopped into the ambnce with him? Why had she not escorted him to the operating room and waited for him to emerge?

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    Chapter 168 Chapter


    168


    The one reason Evangeline could not do any of that was because of a single person, his very own kin, Alex.


    "Walter, I''m here to express my gratitude. No need to make it weird."


    Evangeline was annoyed. She had skipped a night''s sleep, waiting at the hospital doors into the wee hours just to ensure Walter was okay before she could even think of resting. Walter''s words made her feel like her efforts were just in silly!


    "Really? Evangeline, believe me, I''d be over the moon if you hadn''te to see me straight from another guy''s arms."


    Evangeline had dashed to the airport for a pickup, which meant she had definitely been with Alex just before.


    The thought of Evangeline leaving him, injured, to fetch Alex, filled him with a simmering rage.


    Evangeline''s mind raced back to the airport pickup, where she was undeniably with another guy. There was no way around it.


    "Look, it doesn''t matter how I got here. I''m just worried about you, Walter. Could you at least act like you''re in a hospital?" she pleaded.


    "And how exactly is someone in a hospital supposed to act?" Walter shot back with a smirk.


    Her confirmation of her suspicions felt like she was the one who had driven a knife straight into his heart. That hurt way more than the time Lydia had actually stabbed him.


    "So, what? I''m supposed to smile and thank you for your concern, no matter what happens?" Walter''s voice dripped with bitterness. She had just been with that other guy, and she came here out of some sense of obligation because he got hurt. How was he supposed to sn "You''re being totally unreasonable!" Evangeline had had enough of trying to reason with him.


    "Just let go of me. I''ll check your wound, and then I''m out of here." She was here to care for Walter, after all. She could not just leave without even looking at his injury.


    "You''re not being honest, are you? You didn''t really want toe see me. You''re just checking a box!" Walter''s grip on her wrist tightened. "Evangeline, are you that eager to leave? Like I''d make it easy for you."


    His face twisted into a cruel smile. "Guess what? You''re staying here tonight."


    Deep down, Walter hated this, Even so, the thought of Evangeline rushing back to Alex, treating him like an afterthought, just tore him up inside. He would rather keep her here against her will than let her go, and he was okay with that. "Walter, you''re insane!"


    The more Evangeline fought to get free, the tighter Walter''s grip got.


    Then, all of a sudden...


    "Argh!" Walter winced in pain, grabbing his stomach with his free hand.


    Evangeline got it in a sh.


    Walter was hurt. He had a wound.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    There she was, wrestling with him without a second thought about his injury.


    Regret hit her like a wave, and she forgot all about the ache in her wrists, urgently asking, "Are you okay? Let me see!"


    Before Walter could even react, Evangeline was pulling back his nket, nearly getting a glimpse of the wound. Walter''s hand suddenly mped down, blocking her view.


    His voice was whiny and defiant. "You can''t see it, and I''m not showing you! Why should you care if I''m hurt?" Her regret turned to a ze of anger.


    Evangeline was furious. How could Walter still act so childishly, not caring about himself, especially at this moment? "Would you quit it already?"


    She was at her wit''s end. When she red at Walter, her eyes were shimmering with unshed tears.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 169

    He had not really looked at Evangeline''s eyes since she walked in. At this moment, however, he saw the redness, the signs she had been crying a lot. Was she this upset, crying over him... because she cared?


    While Walter was still in shock, Evangeline snatched his hand away. There, on the small patch of gauze over his belly, a dark stain was spreading. The wound had started to bleed again. Walter had only himself to me for his carelessness.


    Evangeline shot him a withering look before turning on her heel to fetch a doctor.


    In the treatment room, Walter, ever the rebel, was pinned down by the medical team for a stitch redo.


    Evangeline watched in silence, her beautiful face an icy mask. To the uninformed, she might have seemed like someone enjoying her nemesis''s downfall. She was, in fact, seething.


    Walter, the cause of all this, winced and grinned through the doctor''s prodding, looking infuriatingly smug.


    When a noise, akin to a pig''s squeal, escaped Walter, Evangeline''s patience snapped, and she stormed out of the surgery room.


    David had to deal with some family stuff, so Caden was on night duty.


    Evangeline bumped into Caden, who had rushed over, just as she stepped out.


    "What''s up with him?" Caden asked, clueless.


    Evangeline, still steaming, snapped back, "What do you think? He messed up his stitches. The doctor is fixing him up again!"


    Caden got the picture and let out a sigh. "Now that you''re here, try to get through to Walter. The guy''s a mess. He nearly died saving you.


    "If he''d just take care of himself, you wouldn''t have to feel so bad about being saved, right?"


    Evangeline had meant to leave, but Caden''s words weighed her down like a ton of bricks, and her feet would not move.


    They were on the brink of divorce. Afterward, she would not have the right to be by Walter''s bedside, no matter how much she might want to...


    She stayed, though. Not that she would ever admit she stayed out of a soft spot for Walter.


    She lingered in the hallway, a storm of unanswered questions keeping her from leaving. Evangeline sshed water on her face in the bathroom, washing away the chaos of the night, and then made her way back to the ward. Walter was done with his stitches, his face a ghostly shade of pain. Hey there, not daring to make a fuss, just waiting.


    His


    eyes widened in shock when he saw Evangeline had not left. "Why are you still here?"


    Did she not want to rush back to Alex''s side?


    When the doctors were busy stitching him up, she had slipped away. Wasn''t it to get back to Alex as fast as possible?


    "How can I go without getting my answers?" Evangeline stood firm by his bed, her voice demanding,


    "Spill it, Walter. Why did you send Julia away? Why did you save me?"


    He could have easily gotten out of that mess with his skills. He did not have to go through all this pain.


    Walter''s gaze hardened, and he tucked away his swirling emotions.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "You''re better off in the dark." He gave a bitter chuckle. "You don''t need the truth. Just go back to your precious Alex and catch up!" He understood.


    Whatever he did, he would never measure up to Alex in her eyes. So why bother sticking around and exining himself? "Are you sure about that?"

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    Chapter 170


    Evangeline was blindsided by Walter''s response.


    "Absolutely. But let me give you onest piece of advice." Walter''s voice was cold, a clear warningced within. "We''re still married, Evangeline. If I catch you messing around with another guy before we''re through, you can''t say I didn''t warn you!" Walter had thrown that threat at her more than once. The first couple of times, Evangeline was just confused. After hearing it over and over though, she did not even have the energy to retort.


    She knew Walter never trusted her, not even after she identally gave him the most special night of her life. What was the point in exining anything to a guy who refused to believe?


    She thought to herself, ''I know I''m clean, and that''s all that matters. The ache in her heart for Walter disappeared in a sh, and she found no reason to stick around.


    Bang! She mmed the door behind her and stormed out.


    Walter''s face turned pitch ck with rage, his hands balled into fists, and he took out his frustration by furiously pounding on the bed.


    Evangeline did not make it home until the crack of dawn, and the whole Walter situation kept her tossing and turning all night. However, her uncles had pulled out all the stops for her birthday party, and she could not let them down. Sporting a pair of massive dark circles, she fought off the urge to crawl back into bed and nted herself in front of her table. Her makeup artist, flown in by her uncle Yale from Francoria just for the asion, was a big deal in the beauty world. It was clear her uncles were going all out for this party. She would have preferred something low-key, but she could not say no under Cole''s hopeful gaze. At longst, the makeup artist shed a pleased grin at Evangeline''s reflection in the mirror. She breathed a sigh of relief; the grueling beauty regimen was finally over.


    Cole and the uncles were all gathered outside, buzzing with excitement for the start of the Foster family''s little princess''s birthday bash.


    Evangeline was just about to head downstairs when her phone buzzed to life.


    The name dancing on the screen sent a flutter through her heart.


    She answered, and Alex''s voice, smooth as honey, greeted her.


    "Happy birthday, my little Evie. Keep an eye out; the present I picked out for you is on its way."


    Alex was always a gentleman with a yful streak, serious but with a spark that could light up any gloomy day. He had a knack for making Evangeline''s spirits soar.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Alex, are youing back?" She clung to the memory of theirst call when he promised to be there for her birthday.


    The present was here, but he was not. Disappointment welled up inside her.


    "I got tied up with something, but how about I make it up to you with an extra-special birthday do-over when I''m back?" Alex''s voice was full of regret and a warmth that nearly brought tears to Evangeline''s eyes.


    She could sense Alex''s regret for not being there and the tiredness he tried to hide. So, with a smile in her voice, Evangeline replied, "Alright. I''ll be waiting for you." She had never shown this yful side to Walter- she never had the chance. Just then, an attendant stepped forward with a gift box wrapped up like a treasure. Evangeline did not hesitate to open it and see what was inside.


    There stood a white dress, its fabric swirling with borate designs, each stitch sparkling with pearls and gems. Every inch of it screamed luxury, making it clear this dress was worth a small fortune.

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    hapter 171


    Evangeline snatched up the phone, her voice rushed as she spoke to Alex on the line, "Alex, this gift is way too extravagant, I just can''t take it."


    Just the blue diamond, big as a pigeon''s egg, was worth at least twenty million, and that was not even counting the rest of the jewels.


    Alexughed. "Nothing is too extravagant for our Foster family''s darling princess! Evie,


    I really put my heart into this. Go on, take it. Didn''t your family throw you a massive birthday party? Do me a favor, and rock that dress at the party, okay? I''m bummed I can''t see you in it myself, so make sure you snap a pic and text it to me..." The saying ''the Gordons rule the South and the Fosters the North'' spelled out just how much clout the Foster family had.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    In a family that influential, folks from every social circle were itching to rub elbows with them.


    So, for the Foster family''s princess, her birthday celebration was the hottest ticket in town, with a full house and a who''s who of high society in attendance.


    With all eyes on her, Evangeline, in a white vintage gown sparkling with colorful diamonds, gracefully made her way up the red carpet, with James at her side.


    Her skin was naturally pale, not a blemish in sight, like fine porcin. Her stunning figure was downright regal, draped in that diamond-studded gown.


    Evangeline looked like a fairy who stumbled into the mortal world. Her dress, dripping with pearls and jewels, could not overshadow the magical vibe she gave off. The showstopper was the blue diamond on her dress, shining so bright under the chandelier lights it could''ve blinded anyone who looked directly at it.


    As she walked through the crowd, arm in arm with James, everyone watched with envy and admiration. When they reached her grandfather, Cole, his warm smile turned stiff.


    "Why is it James? Evie, where''s Walter?"


    That was when it hit Evangeline. She had been so thrown off by Walter''s situation that she had forgotten to tell her grandpa about his injury.


    Swallowing her guilt, she put on a brave face and covered for Walter.


    "Grandpa, you know how it is. Walter''s running the huge Gordon Group, and he''s


    always swamped. Plus, having you and my uncles here is all I need for my birthday. I didn''t want him to crash our cozy family time!"


    Cole''s brow creased, and he looked around at all the guests before replying with a t, "I see," and dropped the subject.


    Evangeline''s birthday party was the talk of Avalon City. With a little help from Julia, her fan base had already grown, and this party was just the cherry on top. She decided to stream the event live on her ount.


    Her five uncles, each a heartthrob in his own right, stood behind her like a constetion of stars, making her the center of their universe.


    Evangeline was a real beauty, and with her five uncles around her, she looked even more like a fragile flower that needed care, making everyone want to look after her.


    A group of high-society guys came by, trying everything they could think of to get close to Evangeline. Their ns were never going to work out, though.


    Cole, sitting at the party, suddenly bellowed in anger, and just like that, all of Evangeline''s meticulous preparations were put on hold.


    Her uncles dashed over to Cole in a hurry, but the old man just ignored them, coldly watching Evangeline, who had no idea what was going on and had just shown up.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 172

    Chapter 172


    "Grandpa, what''s got you so mad? Is it because you think it''s not cool for me to be live-streaming my birthday party? I can shut it off right now-I just don''t want you to be upset..."


    Evangeline did not even let Cole get a word in, quickly turning off the live-stream.


    Cole was still fuming, his face a stormy shade of gray. "Evie, tell me, why didn''t Walter show up?"


    Evangeline dreaded questions about Walter Panicking, she blurted out the same excuse she had used before to brush off her grandfather, "Remember? I said Walter was super busy today, he couldn''t make it...


    "Don''t you lie to me!" Cole cut her off. "Just because I''m getting older doesn''t mean I''m clueless! Come clean now, I''m giving you the chance! The whole thing about you two wanting a kid, was that a fib to fool me? And if there''s anything else you''re keeping from me, spill it Trying to keep her cool, Evangeline gave an awkward smile, "I swear, I''m not lying to you, Grandpa."


    She blinked rapidly, silently pleading with her uncles for help.


    Evangeline knew her uncles were all too aware of the drama between her and Walter:


    Uncle Holden, ever the family''s guardian, was quick toe to her defense. "Dad, Evie''s always been nothing but good to you. Why would she lie? Can''t we drop the wild suspicions, please? And let''s not forget, today''s Evie''s special day, with everyone here to see..." "So what if they''re watching? Does the Foster family stop living just because we''ve got an audience?"


    Cole had battled his way through life; he was not about to be cowed by a crowd.


    "Evie, you said you didn''t lie to me, right? So call Walter this instant. Tell him it''s your birthday and Grandpa''s calling him out. Busy or not, he better show up. I''ll be right here, waiting to see if he''s got the guts to skip!"


    "Grandpa, we were all young once. Why put Walter on the spot?"


    Evangeline''s lip trembled as she fought back her emotions.


    +26 BONUS


    Walter was either stuck in a hospital bed or healing up at the Gordon family estate. How could he possibly show up for her birthday?


    However, Cole was unyielding, and not even her uncles could sway him. Evangeline felt utterly lost, out of moves to y.


    If she did not call, Cole would never drop it. If she did, would Cole not find out about Walter''s injury from Lydia''s attack? Then the facade of a perfect couple she and Walter maintained would crumble before her sharp and savvy Grandpa. The banquet fell into a hush, the guests'' breaths lightening in fear.


    All were wary of what the formidable Cole might do if provoked.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Right at that moment...


    "What''s up with everyone? You all look a bit down. Is there something wrong with the party or the drinks today?"


    The voice that broke the silence was deep and had a kind of sexy allure to it.


    It was not just the voice that made Evangeline''s ears perk up-it was the fact that it was so darn familiar.


    Walter? Impossible!


    Without even thinking, Evangeline''s eyes darted toward the sound, and she was totally taken aback by the sight of him.


    There Walter was, standing tall and looking sharp as ever, his ck suit cutting a fine figure against the backlight. The cool breeze of early fall seemed to follow him right into the hall as he nonchntly slipped off his cashmere coat and handed it to David, who was trailing He did everything with such ease-walking with noble grace, talking with a chill vibe- as if he had just zipped over from the office to make it to Evangeline''s birthday bash.

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    Chapter 173


    Those pale, chapped lips and the slight tension in Walter''s brow said it all.


    Family dramas had always been unpredictable, especially with the Gordons owning the South and the Fosters controlling the North. These two ns essentially ran everything. As long as Walter and Evangeline remained married, nothing was ever certain. Upsetting one of The crowd was full of sharp cookies, and when they heard Walter''s question, they were quick to butter him up.


    "No way, Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re too kind. Everything is of the highest quality! It''s just your granddad-inw-he''s a bit miffed that his favorite granddaughter''s hubby was a no-show at her birthday. Better go smooth things over."


    The guy talking put on a friendly act and scooted closer to Walter, spilling the beans about what was going on.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Once he said that, the whole vibe of the ce did a 180-from stuffy to buzzing with excitement. Everyone was cracking up, eager to see how Walter would make things right with Cole.


    With all eyes on him, Walter made his way to where Cole was sitting at the head of the tablo


    and stood by Evangeline, looking apologetic.


    "Grandpa, I was nning toe by earlier to surprise Evie, but thisst-minute thing popped up at work, and I got held up."


    Walter had the nerve to bete for something as huge as Evie''s birthday. Cole could not even bear to think about what it would be like on other asions.


    Cole had weathered plenty of storms before, so even though he was feeling all kinds of upset inside and had his doubts, he kept a poker face and said coolly, "A dy is no biggie, just make sure you have Evie in mind."


    If Evangeline had not been dead set on marrying Walter, his darling granddaughter would not have ended up with this guy.


    However, it was all said and done, and since Evangeline seemed happy, he, as her grandfather, could not really object. Still, if Walter did not put Evie first and she ended up getting the short end of the stick, Cole would not forgive him.


    The Fosters were known for fiercely protecting their own. Anyone who messed with one of them would inevitably face the consequences.


    Walter, picking up on Cole''s frosty vibe, was all smiles and caution. "Absolutely. Evie''s my wife, and she''s going to be the mom of my future kids. How could I not have her in mind?"


    The room was filled with an awkward silence until Evangeline jumped in with a chuckle to lighten the mood.


    "Grandpa, I told you you''re worrying too much. Walter''s just busy running the Gordon family business. A little hup here and there is totally normal, right? No need to stress yourself out."


    Uncle Yale chimed in to ease the tension, "Exactly, Dad. You''ve always been one to overthink things. Getting all worked up over nothing isn''t going to help you get better or look after your adorable great-grandson!"


    "Don''t spout nonsense; I''m going to get better," said Cole with a brief sh of sternness, which quickly melted into a gentle smile.


    Evangeline felt a wave of relief as she watched Cole''s face soften. She might not have known why Walter showed up at the birthday party, but his timing was perfect, clearing away any of Grandpa''s doubts. She could not help but feel thankful. The party went on without a hitch, and Evangeline and Walter had to y the part of the loving couple in front of Cole. To sell the big fib, they were practically joined at the hip.


    Off to the side, Evangeline reached for her beloved Bloody Mary, only to have it snatched away by a big hand. In its ce, she found herself holding a ss of orange juice. She shot a re at the thief. "Walter, what are you doing with my drink?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 174

    Chapter 174


    Evangeline had been on her toes all day because of Cole, and she finally slipped away from his gaze. Could she not even take a moment to chill out?


    Walter gave her an exaggerated eye roll. He grabbed a ss of orange juice from a passing tray and grimaced after tasting it. "Ugh, this is nasty."


    Walter had always turned up his nose at sour vors. The moment the tangy taste hit his tongue, his face twisted into a frown that looked downright silly with his sharp suit and shiny shoes. Evangeline could not help but burst intoughter. "You knew it was awful and you still made me try it? Are you trying to make sure if you''re not happy, nobody else can be either?"


    "And what if I am?" Walter abandoned his battle with the orange juice and fixed her with an icy stare. "Evangeline, have you forgotten what time it is for us? Drinking during the pre- pregnancy phase? With genes as ster as mine, do you want to risk alcohol turning our son into a dunce? Could you live with that?"


    Evangeline''s lips twitched involuntarily, and the orange juice in her hand suddenly took on a new charm. Walter was right; she was in the pre-pregnancy stage and alcohol was off-limits.


    With noeback, Evangeline downed the juice in one swift motion and turned her cool gaze back to Walter. She cut to the chase, voicing the doubt that had been nagging at her. "Aren''t you supposed to be on bed rest? What brings you here?"


    She was not about to foolishly assume Walter hade just to celebrate her birthday.


    With her curiosity piqued about his true intentions, she did not give him the chance to spin a tale. "Don''t tell me you''re here for my birthday. With everything that''s going on between us, I wouldn''t believe it anyway.


    Walter''s dark eyes seemed to grow deeper, the pain that had been etched in his brow momentarily concealed. His injuries were severe, and the doctor had insisted onplete rest. However, the moment he heard it was Evangeline''s birthday, he defied his doctor''s orders With Evangeline''s blunt words though, even if his reasons were genuine, he knew he could not confess to them.


    "Are you some kind of fairying down to earth? Why should I care about your birthday?"


    Walter shot back with a sneer, "I didn''t even want toe, but I figured if we split, it wouldn''t look good to be on bad terms with the Fosters. This is the perfect chance to rub elbows with the uncles, right?"


    To any savvy businessman, Walter''s strategy was spot-on.


    Evangeline could not shake off her disappointment.


    She understood.


    Walter was down to have kids with her, to show up and y the part at her birthday bash, all because she was the Foster family''s darling princess. If not for that, Walter would not give her the time of day. Her heart sank deeper into despair, and she found herself getting more fed up with Walter''s face.


    "If you''re just here for the Fosters, then watch your back. If anything happens to you, don''t you dare pin it on me." Evangeline mmed down her empty ss and spun around, strutting away like a peacock with her head held high.


    Unbeknownst to the bickering pair, the party guests were abuzz with rumors.


    "Am I thest to know? Aren''t the Foster''s princess and Mr. Walter Gordon heading for divorce? After that huge blowup at the County Clerk''s Office, why are they cozying up again?"


    "Yeah, haven''t you heard? Cole..."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Just moments ago, the buzz was all about those two having a baby. Now, with divorce papers practically in hand, they''re still on about starting a family? What''s the deal with them-are they splitting up or staying together

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    Chapter 175


    Out of nowhere, someone else chimed in on the drama.


    "Seriously, we''re all just wasting our time here. The Gordons and the Fosters- whether they split or stick it out, we''re all just trying to stay on their good side. Why sweat the small stuff? Knowing who not to tick off is the real trick!" This guy had a point, but it did not do much to squash the curiosity bubbling up in the crowd. The chatter got louder and more heated by the second.


    Right then, a squad of slick bodyguards strutted through the crowd, lining up in formation without missing a beat.


    The Fosters'' clout in Avalon City was no secret, but this kind of showy entrance? It had ''mystery'' written all over it.


    Evangeline, who had just gotten back to Cole, could not help but get caught up in the spectacle.


    Before long, the man of the hour was in Evangeline''s sights.


    Instead of the fancy leather shoes she was expecting, a set of wheels rolled into view.


    A gasp rippled through the crowd.


    "Isn''t that Alex Gordon, the family''s second son? Since when does he need a wheelchair?"


    "The same Alex Gordon? The guy Trey picked to take over the family''s story empire for half a decade before jetting off to study abroad?"


    "Yeah, I''ve heard he''s incredibly talented. It took him just five years to turn Gordon Group into a giant that could go toe-to-toe with the Fosters. And now, Gordon Group is still cr on the sess he built up back then."


    Evangeline kept her thoughts about the past to herself, but at this moment...


    Her eyes naturally drifted upward.


    There was Alex, just as she remembered him.


    His face was sharply chiseled, like a work of art, with a gentle, easygoing look in his eyes. His features were striking, his nose prominent, and his skin had a pale, not-so-


    healthy glow.


    Walter had an air of raw energy about him, but Alex was a total contrast, all poise and grace, like he was born to be royalty.


    Evangeline''s pretty eyes sparkled, and she did not even care that other guests were watching as she dashed over in her heels.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Alex? What are you doing here? I thought you got held up and couldn''t make it?"


    "When the Foster''s little princess is celebrating her birthday, I''d fly here if I had to." Alex''s voice was tinged with reluctance, but anyone paying attention could hear the affection in his words. Evangeline did not know when Alex had hurt his leg and ended up in a wheelchair, but with a room full of guests, this was not the time for such questions.


    She pushed down the pang in her heart and beamed at Alex, her smile sweet and a touch yful.


    "I just knew it, Alex, you always treat me the best!"


    Mid-sentence, Evangeline reached out to push the wheelchair and realized that it was already being pushed by a tall woman with striking features.


    Before Evangeline could get a good look at herself, Alex was already by her side, taking her hand.


    "Evie, let''s see you," he said.


    Evangeline stood there, her ck hair cascading down her shoulders, her makeup wless. She was wrapped in the luxurious gown Alex had picked out for her, its price tag as sky-high as its elegance. Alex examined her with his intense gaze, taking in every detail from head to toe. Finally, he gave a satisfied nod. "This dress is perfect for you."


    Evangeline blushed. "I love the dress, Alex, but it must have cost you a fortune."


    Her words rippled through the crowd of whispering guests, stirring up a storm. Was this stunning gown a present from the Gordon family''s dashing second son?

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    Chapter 176


    All eyes shifted to Walter, whose face had turned a shade of stormy blue.


    His wife and his kin Alex were sharing a moment so intimate, it was as if they had forgotten he existed. Was he, her husband, invisible to them?


    Moreover, how could Evangeline parade around in another man''s gift at such a significant event as her birthday banquet? Did she spare a thought for him at all? away.


    To Walter, the gown was like a ring stain he desperately wanted to scrub However, with Cole and the uncles around, he had no choice but to bottle up his rage.


    The guests had filled the room, and the birthday banquet was about to hit its stride with the most awaited moment just on the horizon.


    Evangeline, the birthday girl of the hour, took her ce at the center of attention.


    First up was her uncle Yale, looking extra sharp in his formal attire. He came forward with a neatly wrapped, square box and handed it to Evangeline with a sense of ceremony.


    "I have been out there, working my tail off for years and hardly ever made it home. I haven''t been around enough for our little princess. But things are different now. I''ve got everything under control, and if anyone even thinks about messing with you, they''ll have me to answ Yale did not name anyone, but every word seemed to poke right at Walter, who felt the sting.


    Being the apple of everyone''s eye felt amazing.


    Evangeline, fully aware of her uncle''s protective streak, teased him with augh," Uncle Yale, you''re making it sound like I''m in some kind of danger. Who would dare mess with me? I think I''m doing pretty well not to mess with them!"


    The room filled withughter, and Evangeline''s uncles could not help but sneak peeks at Walter, who was sweating bullets.


    Yale''s smile widened as he nudged her. "Silly kid, go on, open it!"


    Cole chimed in, "Come on, Evie, open it up! I''m dying to see what Uncle Yale''s got for you!"


    With everyone leaning in, Evangeline lifted the lid off the box.


    Inside was a striking red book with gold lettering, a ''House and Real Estate Title Deed no less.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    She flipped it open out of instinct.


    The property was in the Eastern District of Avalon City, nestled in the luxurious neighborhood known as the Emerald of the Hignds..


    The Emerald of the Hignds, nestled by the sea, was a slice of paradise in Avalon City, a ce where the elite lived in splendor, far outshining Crystal Waters House where Evangeline and Walter had their starter home. The vi''s price tag started at 30 million, and in those days of soaring real estate values, it could fetch even more at auction!


    "Uncle Yale, this amazing house... Is it really for me? It''s just too much!"


    Evangeline was on the brink of splitting from Walter and had been house-hunting for a ce to call her own. Uncle Yale''s gift was like a miracle, just when she needed it most.


    Yale chuckled. "Absolutely, my dear. As the Foster family''s darling princess, you''re meant to have all the wonderful things life can offer!"


    Cole grabbed the deed, gave it a once-over with a grin, and snuggled back into Evangeline''s embrace. "Cherish Uncle Yale''s present. His visits are rare, and who knows when he''ll be back next?" Laughter filled the room as Jack, the suave second brother, stepped forward.


    He handed Evangeline the papers, teasing, "I thought my gift was pretty impressive, but our big brother just had to one-up me with a vi in the Emerald of the Hignds! He''s always the top dog, no contest!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 177

    Chapter 177


    Evangeline flipped through the documents, and her eyes widened at the sight of the lifetime ownership papers for a private ind off the Mastorwell coast.


    "Are you seriously giving me an ind?"


    Jack''s voice was calm and steady as he said, "You know, we all have those days when we''re just not feeling it, totally wiped out. I figured my awesome niece might need a chill spot for those times. I''ve got you covered on the ind- food, clothes, a ce to crash, and transportation. You have to check it out, okay?


    Evangeline nodded eagerly. "Oh, absolutely!!


    Holden jumped in. "Handing out houses and inds like candy, but Mastorwell is a million miles away. How''s she supposed to get there? You guys missed a beat. But not me-check this out!"


    Like magic, the ownership papers for a private jet fluttered into Evangeline''s hands.


    "The pilot is an old pal of mine, high-grade andpletely safe! Evie, you''re going to love it!"


    "Uncle Holden, you''re the best!"


    Evangeline threw her arms around Holden, just as Aemon chimed in with a chuckle, You guys are going all out. I''m not even sure what to give now!"


    Evangeline was quick to reassure him, "Having my uncles here for my birthday party is the best gift ever. Presents are cool, but you all are what makes me happy."


    "You''re such a sweetheart," said Aemon, "but if I didn''t bring something special, it''d look like I don''t adore you as much as they do, right?"


    Aemon''s look was moreid-back than the others, a step up from his usual street style but still chill. He gave a nod to ady in red, who rolled out something huge. Evangeline''s eyes lit up at the sight of its outline.


    A motorcycle! Her dream ride was right there!


    Aemon stayed back, just giving Evangeline a knowing nce that said-it all. "Go ahead and open it, see if it''s to your liking."


    Evangeline''s hands quivered with barely contained excitement as she set aside the


    presents from her earlier uncles on the table. She inhaled deeply, moved forward, and flung off the cloth that was hiding her surprise.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    In that instant, Evangeline''s breath caught in her throat.


    It was a B120 Phantom! It was the motorcycle of her wildest dreams!


    The bike''s worth was not about its price tag. With only 100 in existence worldwide, Evangeline had been captivated by its sleek design and ster performance. However, due to its rarity, it had eluded her grasp for years. This gift, unlike thevish ones from her other uncles, struck a chord deep within Evangeline''s heart.


    "Uncle Aemon, I can''t thank you enough!" Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke.


    He was a man of few words. His silence often made her think he was


    unapproachable, and she felt nervous around him. However, he had just given her the gift she cherished most.


    It was clear that Aemon''s way of showing affection was not as outward as Holden''s; it was profound and unspoken.


    "As long as you''re happy with it."


    Aemon quietly stepped aside, letting the youngest brother, James, take his turn.


    "People are handing out cars and houses like they''re nothing. I wanted to give you something unique."


    James handed her a long, cylindrical box.


    "Take a look inside. I might not have their wealth or influence, but who needs that? It''s just a little something to brighten your day."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 178

    Chapter 178Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    James'' voice carried a note of self-deprecation, but everyone there knew the truth.


    James was a legend, a top-tierwyer with a golden touch. Mostwyers bill by the hour or by the case, but not James. His time was so valuable that he charged by the minute, and only the big shots could afford to get him on board.


    Around Evangeline, however, he was just a big softie, ying the fool to make herugh. Everyone was in on the joke, and it only made them respect him more.


    Evangeline had unwrapped so many presents that the thrill was starting to wear off- until she saw the unusual gift box from Uncle James. Her curiosity sparked back to life.


    She opened the box with care and pulled out a rolled-up piece of paper. It was a painting!


    Unrolling it, she was greeted by a serene autumnndscape. The golden oak leaves fluttered gently in the breeze, while the deep red maples stood tall, adding a vibrant contrast to the scene. The painting''s deer, captured mid-leap, added a touch of graceful motion. Thanks to her recent art hist


    ory readings, Evangeline recognized it instantly. "This is... Robert Gainsborough''s ''Autumn''s Embrace"!" she gasped.


    When James gifted someone something, it was the real deal, no question about it.


    While studying art, Evangeline had been captivated by the deer, symbols of nobility and freedom, and dreamed of seeing the original masterpiece.


    Uncle James had made that dreame true!


    "Do you like it?" he asked.


    "Like it? I absolutely love it!" Evangeline beamed, wishing every day could be her birthday.


    Deep down, she knew it was just a silly thought. The gifts were nice, sure, but it was her uncles'' heartfelt care that truly moved her.


    With her mother gone too soon, Evangeline had long missed being someone''s treasure. On this day, she felt truly cherished


    For years, it was Cole''s loving care that got her this far. At this moment, feeling the


    warmth of her uncles'' concern, Evangeline was on the verge of tears.


    James was not focused on Evangeline''s touched heart. His eyes were locked on Walter, standing right next to her.


    "Evie, you know, I really thought hard about your present. In Robert Gainsborough''s works, the deer represents faithfulness. This gift symbolizes the ideal unity and harmony between husband and wife."


    James thought of adding, "If that unity can''t be achieved, then parting ways, like autumn leaves carried away by the wind, could also be an option."


    He held back only because Cole was there.


    The whole divorce drama James was helping Evangeline and Walter with was already the talk of the town. Who did not know about it?


    James'' message was crystal clear: If Walter did not treat Evangeline like a treasure, James would not go easy on him.


    When Walter saw the painting, his mind started racing. He was overwhelmed, his feelings a tangled mess, and he was at a loss for words.


    One thing was for sure-he managed to tick off all five of Evangeline''s uncles right at the first meeting!


    After the uncles'' gifts were all handed out, Walter''s present was thest thing Evangeline was looking forward to, so she figured the peak of her birthday party was already behind her.


    Just when she thought it was all over, amid the guests'' apuse, Cole, who had been all smiles and silent, suddenly raised his hand, motioning for silence.


    The room fell into a hushed silence as Cole rose from his seat, gently cing his hand on Evangeline''s head.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 179

    hapter 179


    "Evie, life hasn''t been kind to you, and no matter how much your uncles and I try, we can''t take the ce of your real parents.


    "Normally, I wouldn''t give you a gift at my age-it might mess with your luck. But how could I not give you something for your first birthday with the Fosters?"


    Cole''s heartfelt words made Evangeline''s eyes brim with tears.


    "Grandpa, you don''t have to do anything..."


    Before she could finish, Cole gestured for her to be quiet.


    "I don''t have much to give, and I wouldn''t want to curse your luck, so I''ll just give you a little something to remember this day by."


    With everyone watching, Cole lifted his left hand. The emerald jade of his ring drew all eyes to it.


    That ring was the very one Cole had won from thest great gambler in his legendary victory. Once it became part of the Foster family, it turned into a symbol of their authority.


    As the onlookers held their breath, Cole slid the ring off his finger.


    The excitement was palpable, with gasps echoing through the room.


    If Cole gave that ring to Evangeline, it would mean she was set to be the next leader of the Foster n!


    In a heartbeat, Cole grasped Evangeline''s hand, and before she could even react, he slipped the ring onto her left hand.


    Evangeline opened her mouth to speak, but Cole did not give her a chance.


    "Everyone here today shares a bond with me, and you all understand the weight of the ring I bear.


    "Now, I have formally entrusted this ring to my dearest granddaughter Evangeline. Should she face any troubles ahead, I trust you''ll all look out for her."


    Cole''s words were gracious and modest, as f he were asking the guests to watch over Evangeline.


    With the Foster family''s influence and standing, though, they most certainly did not


    need them.


    It was basically a subtle way of telling everyone that Evangeline was the chosen sessor of the Foster family, and that everyone should take note.


    Evangeline stared at the ring on her thumb, feeling its weight like a ton of bricks." Grandpa, I''m still so young. How can I shoulder such a huge role?"N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    To the crowd, stepping up to lead the Foster family meant riches beyond spending and status beyond imagining. To Evangeline, it felt like the world was on her shoulders. Could she really guide the Foster family to new heights?


    She even thought that any of her uncles would be a better fit to wield the reins of the family than her.


    Nheless...


    "None of your uncles have their hearts set on the family business, but you, Evie, got that spark. If I can''t trust you with the Foster family legacy, then who? Grandpa''s not getting any younger, and my health isn''t at its best. If I pass away without picking a sessor, I''d never be able to rest."


    He gave Evangeline''s shoulder a reassuring pat.


    "Evie, I trust my instincts, and I trust the fire I see in you. You''re the best, the absolute- right choice to carry on the Foster name! Plus, you''re young-it''s the perfect chance for you to get your feet wet. While I''m still kicking, and your uncles are still up to it, why not learn the ropes from them? It''s the best way to go, don''t you think?

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    Chapter 180


    With everythingid out before her, Evangeline found it impossible to say no.


    The serious talk was done, and it was finally time for everyone to rx and share a moment or two.


    This was Evangeline''s favorite part. She was not one for small talk, but she could not turn away her uncles'' kindness.


    Finally free, she was eager to reconnect with Alex, whom she had not seen in far too long.


    The fact that Alex was using a wheelchair-and she had not known-pained her deeply.


    Without hesitation, Evangeline wheeled Alex out to the back garden.


    As they reached the swing, Evangeline noticed a woman with an effortless grace entering the garden. She looked up and realized it was the same woman who had helped Alex earlier. With a polite smile, she acknowledged her presence. The woman took her ce next to Alex''s wheelchair with a practiced grace, her eyes twinkling with a smile that did not quite reach the distant look in her gaze. She seemed to be somewhere else entirely.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline''s gaze lingered on the woman, a yful glint in her eye as she ribbed Alex, "Alex, you''ve been away for ages, and now you show up with this stunningdy on your arm. Aren''t you going to introduce her to your dear sis?" Alex responded with an easygoing air, "Minnie and I met overseas. She''s one of my students."


    With an elegant smile, the woman reached out her hand to Evangeline. "Minnie Kast. A pleasure to meet you."


    "Evangeline."


    As Evangeline took her hand, the softness of her touch sparked a memory of someone else. Driven by curiosity, she studied Minnie''s features more closely. It was odd; she was sure she had seen that face before.


    Minnie was Alex''s friend, and it would not be right to start questioning that. So, Evangeline turned her attention back to Alex.


    "How long are you back for this time, Alex?"


    She tried to hide her reluctance to see him go. Everyone had their own journey, and Evangeline knew she had to respect his. Alex had made quite the name for himself as a leading professor at a renowned university abroad, and he had put down roots there.


    The thought of saying goodbye again brought a wave of sadness over her, but before she could dwell on it, Alex shook his head. There was a yful twinkle in his eye that she did not quite recognize, not the Alex she remembered. However, it was gone in an instant, makin "Ahem." Alex cleared his throat, a teasing tone in his voice, "Evie, are you trying to get rid of me?"


    "Of course not, I''d hate that. Once you''re off overseas, who knows when we''ll see each other again." Evangeline''s voice carried a whiff ofint.


    "Well, if that''s how you feel, I guess I''ll just have to stay!" Alex''s grin was like a warm spring breeze, as bright andforting as the morning sun, impossible to ignore.


    "Are you serious?" Ex


    serious?" Evangeline had always looked up to Alex like a big brother, and the thought of him staying put was more thrilling to her than hitting the jackpot. "Dead serious. I''ve got a job lined up right here at home, so I''m not going anywhere."


    Alex''s gaze softened as he went on, "Grandpa Trey is not getting any younger, and he''s always dreaming of having us grandkids close by, to soak up the good times together. So, I''m back for good!" Alex said it with such ease.


    Evangeline knew better. She could only imagine the inner turmoil he must-have faced, abandoning the life he had carved out for himself abroad to start anew back home. That took a lot of bravery. She gave the swing a gentle push, her eyes lingering on Alex''s legs, motionless in the wheelchair.

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    Chapter 181


    Evangeline bit her lip, wanting to ask about the injury that had taken the spring out of those once-lively legs, but the thought of dredging up Alex''s painful past made her heart heavy.


    Amid her indecision, Minnie piped up with a sparkle in her eye, "Ms. Evangeline, who was that dreamy guy standing with you earlier? He''s a total knockout! Any chance you could hook us up?" The man in question, the one who''d been glued to Evangeline''s side at the party, was none other than Walter.


    Minnie''s eyes practically danced at the mention of him, her crush as obvious as a neon sign.


    Alex''s face clouded over, a frown marring his usually smooth features as he shot a warning nce.** Minnie, you''re here to dive into your new project, not daydream about boys." The air between Walter and Evangeline was thick with awkwardness.


    Evangeline understood that Alex''s scolding was his way of protecting her feelings.


    She was over it, though.


    "Alex," Evangeline chided, "Minnie''s about my age, and it''s totally normal for her to be into guys, isn''t it?" Alex still looked worried, but Evangeline had moved on


    She turned to Minnie, her smile light and breezy, and dropped the bombshell. "The hottie you''re talking about? That''s my soon-to-be ex, Walter."


    Minnie''s hand flew to her mouth as she looked mortified. "Oh my gosh, I had no idea..."


    "Don''t sweat it," Evangeline cut her off nonchntly, "we''re on the fast track to divorce. If you''re into Walter, go for it. Seriously."


    She fought back the unease wing at her insides, putting on a brave face as she cheered her on. She was torturing herself with these feelings because deep down, she knew the truth: She and Walter were never going to happen. Seeing him with someone else was a bitter pill she had to swallow.


    So, what did it matter who ended up winning Walter''s heart in the end?


    Minnie, probably overwhelmed by the awkwardness, imed she needed the restroom and bolted.


    Suddenly, it was just Alex and Evangeline left in the garden.


    Alex wheeled himself over to where Evangeline sat on the swing. "How has it been going with Walter? Is there really no chance of making up?" Phone calls never did justice to theplexity of their situation, and Alex had a hunch that Evangeline was just being stubborn with Walter.


    Since they were finally face-to-face, her sharp words made him realize the gravity of the situation.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "We''re in the divorce cooling-off period now. What''s left to fix?"


    Evangeline let out augh, but to Alex, it seemed tinged with sadness.


    "Alex, you''ve got nothing to worry about. Even if


    That''s not going to change, ever."


    Walter and I split for good, you''ll always be by my side.


    Trey would always be like a grandfather to her, Evangeline silently added in her heart. In the Gordon family, aside from Alex, Trey had been the kindest to her, but it was unfortunate that their bond would soon be cut short... Little did Evangeline know, Walter had been looking for her at the party and was now making his way down the garden path in search of her.


    While Walter was on the lookout, a graceful girl popped up out of nowhere behind him, giving his shoulder a stealthy tap.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, what are you searching for?"


    Walter spun around, a crease of confusion forming between his brows.


    What was this about?


    He did not recognize the face before him, yet there was something oddly familiar in the curve of her eyes and the arch of her brows.

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    Chapter 182


    "Excuse me, miss, do you... know me?"


    In Avalon City, Walter was a known figure, so it was not odd for women to recognize him, Usually, however, they would get all bashful and scurry off.


    This woman had the guts to tap his shoulder-a bold move, for sure.


    "Hi there, I''m Minnie. Maybe you and I could get to know each other better?"


    Minnie''s words were coy, but her actions were anything but. She reached out her hand to Walter with no hesitation.


    Her eyes locked onto Walter with an intensity that was almost predatory, as if he was just a piece of meat ready for her to carve up.


    Walter did not like that one bit.


    He had much experience with women, but he never met a woman who looked at him like he was her next catch.


    He was not like the others. This kind of move did not intrigue him-it turned him off.


    Ignoring Minnie''s outstretched hand, Walter coolly fished out a cigarette from his pocket, struck a match with a flick of his wrist, and took a leisurely puff. He then nonchntly said, "Sorry, but you don''t interest me. And things that don''t catch my fancy... They get tossed asi The cigarette, still burning, was casually dropped from his fingertips.


    It hit the ground like a piece of unwanted trash, and with no second thought, he snuffed it out with the sole of his shoe.


    Walter took onest look at Minnie and then walked away without a second nce. Minnie stood still, not bothering to follow him.


    Despite being turned down, a smile of unexpected delight crept onto her face. "I knew it, Walt" she whispered to herself, "you still care about me. I was right about you!" Julia smiled under the facade of Minnie.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ''It was all because of Evangeline, that snake, always causing trouble. She made you misunderstand me, and that''s why you sent me off to Northern Montavia, to that horrible ce!


    Yes, Minnie was indeed Julia. After Walter had sent her off to Northern Montavia, where she endured countless hardships, she finally managed to escape that nightmare, using her wits and strength. Atst, she had found a powerful ally.


    After all she had been through, Julia returned to Avalon City as Minnie, with one goal: To make her lifelong enemy, Evangeline, pay dearly for what she had done.


    That payment? It would be making sure Evangeline suffered just as much.


    The thought of Evangeline, groveling on the ground like a dog, filled Minnie''s heart with excitement.


    She imagined it happening and knew it would be... an incredible sight to see!


    Walter, having left Minnie behind, quickly spotted Evangeline in the back garden. The autumn grass was a sea of gold, and there was Evangeline, all dolled up and sitting on a swing, looking soft and lovely in the glow of the garden lights. Before Walter could even feel a flutter in his heart, he spotted a figure that spoiled the mood. From where he stood, he could see Alex and Evangeline sitting close together, shoulder to shoulder. "Alex, that''s just too much!" Walter''s temper red, his fists clenched as he marched over with determined strides.


    He did not give the pair a second to react. With a voice sharp as ice, Walter snapped at Alex, "Evangeline and I are still married, Alex. You''d better remember that."


    Evangeline was baffled by his usation. She hopped off the swing, her eyes shooting daggers at Walter. "What are you even talking about, Walter? Alex and I were just talking. What''s the big deal?"


    Was he trying to y the hero in some drama? Who did he think he was impressing?


    It hit Walter then that Evangeline and Alex had kept their distance, and he had just misread the situation because of the angle. Given what he knew about Evangeline''s feelings toward Alex, he did not feel too bad about his outburst. Skipping the exnations, he grabbed Evangeline''s wrist and told Alex.

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    Chapter 183


    "Evangeline and I need to talk. You''re excused."


    Walter''s grip was unyielding, and Evangeline could not resist as he dragged her away from the garden.


    Back in Evangeline''s room, Walter mmed the door with a bang and spun around to see Evangeline in her evening gown, his expression darkening.


    He pointed usingly at the blue diamond on her dress and growled a warning, "So, are you going to take that off, or do I have to do it for you?"


    His words sent a shiver down Evangeline''s spine, reviving unpleasant memories.


    Remembering Walter''s past roughness, she held onto her dress for dear life.


    The party was still in full swing, and Evangeline had to make a round of personal thank-yous to the guests soon. "You need to get your mind out of the gutter, Walter!" she snapped.


    She had thought the stern warmings from the uncles at the party would have put him on alert, but it looked like they did not faze him one bit. How else could he be so bold as to ask her to strip down in the middle of the day? Evangeline was baffled. How could Walter be so obsessed with getting her out of the dress Alex had sent? Did it infuriate him that much?


    All Walter wanted was for her to ditch that annoying dress immediately. If she was not up for it, he was more than willing to help-whether she liked it or not.


    Sure enough, he did help. In one swift move, her dress was torn, and her pale, delicate skin was suddenly out in the open.


    The fancy dress from Alex was now just a pile of tatters, and the blue diamond that had been sewn into ity abandoned on the floor, its threads gone.


    "Walter, you jerk!" Evangeline clutched what was left of her dress, barely covering up.


    Walter just chuckled darkly and tossed her onto the bed. "Can''t youe up with something new? I''m so over those insults," he taunted.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Evangeline was speechless, her anger boiling over. How could someone be so utterly shameless? Instead of feeling sorry, he had the nerve to criticize her for not being creative with her insults?


    While she was seething, Walter coolly picked up the phone. "David, bring the stuff to the first room on the left, third floor of the main vi."


    That room, the princess room, was Evangeline''s own little sanctuary.


    Evangeline was burning with curiosity. What was Walter up to? What surprise had he seat David to deliver?


    Jt could not be some kind of aphrodisiac, could it? The thought sent a shiver down her spine.


    With Walter''s fury, there was no chance she would be leaving her bed tonight.


    This was beyond frustrating!


    However, Evangeline''s fighting spirit was kindling. She might not be able to take on Walter, but she had her uncles. Surely, once they realized Walter had them under his thumb, they woulde to her rescue! So there they were, both wary and watchful in their standoff.


    The tension was broken by a knock on the door.


    David entered, carrying two boxes, onerge and one small, and ced them by Evangeline''s bedside as Walter directed. With his task done, David left.


    Ignoring the smaller box, Walter opened therger one and handed its contents to Evangeline.


    Without thinking, she took it and looked.


    A dress? Really?


    Walter had tom her dress not out of some wild desire, but to have her wear the one he had


    nicked out?


    Evangeline''s eyes widened in surprise, and Walter, catching her gaze, seemed a bit uneasy. To hide his difort, he growled, "Evangeline, if catch you wearing another man''s gift again, tearing it up will be the least of your worries!" Chapter 184

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    Chapter 184


    This was utterly ridiculous!


    Evangeline shot Walter a withering look.


    "What''s the big deal about wearing clothes from someone else? First, the gift is from Alex, not just some other man," she snapped at Walter. "And just to be clear, we''re on the brink of divorce. Maybe you should start getting used to being my ex and stop being so grabby, okay?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter was a piece of work.


    Back when she was head over heels for him, doing everything to be by his side, he could not have cared less.


    Now, all she wanted was to speed through the divorce and break free, but he was all up in her business, even fussing over what she wore.


    Was this his idea of fun? Being a control freak?


    Walter had been standing on the floor, but at her words, he took a step thatnded him on the bed, closing in on Evangeline, still in her tattered dress. He seized her chin with a grip that was as cold and shocking as his expression. "Clearly, Ms. Evangeline, you''re clueless about thew, so let me enlighten you. The cooling-


    off period doesn''t count as us being divorced. If I wasn''t worried about you parading around in some random guy''s clothes, making the Gordon family look bad, why would I bother with you?"


    His use of ''random guy'' red Evangeline''s irritation. She fought back hard and shoved his hand away. "Mind yournguage! The guy who gave me the clothes isn''t some random dude. His name is Alex, and he''s your kin!* Evangeline knew all too well about Walter''s nasty streak, but there had to be a limit. Alex, with his gentle soul, did not deserve to be dragged through the mud by a jerk like Walter.


    Her defense, however, gave Walter the opening he needed to sneer back at her.


    "Wow, you remember that Alex is my rtive? Judging by your antics, I would''ve guessed you''d forgotten!


    Walter''s gaze darkened, turning mysterious and intense as it fixed on Evangeline.


    A fiery intensity sparked in his eyes, and he found himself drawn closer to her without even realizing it. Evangeline, caught up in her own fury, did not notice the looming threat. "My antics? Spell it out for me, Walter!" she demanded.


    Walter''s words were heavy with implication, and Evangeline heard every word. Nheless, nothing got under her skin more than being wrongly used, especially of something as scandalous as hitting on her rtive and tarnishing the family''s reputation!


    "You really have no clue what you''ve done?" Walter''sughter had a mocking edge, but his gaze lingered on Evangeline''s delicate corbone, exposed to the air She was slender, her skin pale, and her corbone strikingly beautiful- a feature Walter adored. Whenever they were close, he could not resist showering it with kisses.


    His dark eyes shimmered with a hint of envy, his body burning up with a feverish heat. Of course, his


    words remained sharp and cutting, voicing his deepest thoughts. "Why is it that when I mention any random guy, you don''t bat an eye? But the moment I call Alex a wild man, you''re all fired up? Does it hurt, Evangeline? Are you aching for Alex?" Walter''s voice betrayed a twinge of pain, and he fought the urge to clutch his chest as he looked at Evangeline.


    He was filled with regret. Evangeline had always known that her heart belonged to Alex alone, so why was he putting himself through this, demanding answers he did not want to hear?


    What Walter did not realize was that his words had just triggered something in Evangeline.


    She could not figure out why she got so worked up when she heard people bad-mouthing Alex.


    It all made sense.


    If Walter was so eager to know, she was not going to keep it a secret any longer.


    "Yeah, I care about him! I really, really care about him!" she blurted out.

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    Chapter 185


    This was not about love.


    Evangeline''s heart ached for Alex, who had to give up his booming career to teach overseas. She felt for him, having lost the use of his legs for reasons unknown, leaving him bound to a wheelchair.


    What hurt her most was seeing Alex, such a good-hearted guy, get trashed by his own kin-just because he got along well with her, his inwl


    Why did Alex, a guy who was supposed to shine bright, have to have a lowlife like Walter for a rtive? Walter felt like he had been stabbed in the heart, the pain so sharp that he could barely get his words out. He just could not see what was so special about Alex. They had the same face, so why did Evangeline choose Alex and not him?


    He was seething with rage.


    He wanted tosh out, to break things, to use brute force to make Evangeline fall in line.


    Then he remembered the hurt he had caused her, and his fists clenched even harder.


    "Great. After we get divorced, you can go ahead and pity whoever you want-


    it won''t be my problem. But until then, you better stay away from other guys, even if it''s Alex," he said, his voice low and threatening. his intense gaze fixed on Evangeline, as he made his threat clear. "If you don''t get changed, I''m totally ready to make a scene right here in your room!"


    Evangeline''s panic spiked, especially when she caught a glimpse of Walter''s eyes, practically sparking with fury.


    "Fine, fine, I''m on it!"


    She reached for the dress Walter had tossed her way, but the gown he had ripped was falling off her, leaving her exposed.


    A shiver ran across her chest, and she instinctively covered up, only to lock eyes with Walter''s gaze, hotter than ever.


    His look said it all, as if she was trying to tempt him on purpose.


    With those intense eyes on her, Evangeline could not even muster the courage to move her arms, much less change clothes in front of him! There was only one solution.


    "Turn around, will you?"


    Hermand got a chuckle out of Walter. "Like there''s anything I haven''t seen before. What''s with the


    act?"


    She did not bother to argue, just gave a wry smile. "You''re giving me too much credit for purity. I''m just thinking about my safety, that''s all."


    She did not trust Walter''s hungry look one bit. If he got carried away and ruined the birthday party, making.


    it the talk of the town, it would be a disaster.


    "Think you''re irresistible, do you?" Walter let out a cold huff and turned his back to her.


    With the sound of rustling fabric, Evangeline finally slipped into her new dress-a stunning deep blue


    that hugged her figure like a second skin.


    gown


    The dress hugged Evangeline''s curves in all the right ces, with a bustier adorned with sparkling tulle that let her show off without showing too much. Evangeline slipped on her heels and posed in front of the mirror, admiring the gown''s reflection.


    Unlike the gem-studded number Alex had given her, this dress did not scream ''expensive''. Instead, it whispered ''designer,'' with afort that belied its intricate details. It screamed Walter, through and through.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Since Walter picked it out, she would not confess that the dress had stolen her heart the moment sheid eyes on if though.


    In the mirror, Walter''s towering frame edged closer to

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    Chapter 186


    Evangeline rolled her eyes. ''Not bad''? More like ''drop-dead gorgeous."


    Alex''s dress was all soft and sweet, perfect for a demure debutante at a birthday bash. Evangeline was not one for soft and sweet. Walter''s choice, with its regal elegance and a hint of sass, seemed like it was made just for her. Not that she had ever admitted it moved her.


    With Walter''s influence and power,missioning a custom dress was as easy as shing cash and rattling off his measurements. Someone else would do the legwork.


    f


    He would just sit back and pick his favorite from a lineup of designs...


    Why would someone like Walter ever put his heart into something for her?


    With that-thought, a wave of bittersweet resignation washed over Evangeline.


    "Come on, Evangeline, it''s time to see things for what they are. No point in denying the obvious."


    Walter casually smoothed out the folds in Evangeline''s dress with one hand, while with the other, he produced a small box he had tossed aside earlier and handed it to her. "Here''s your birthday gift. Go on, open it."N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    At the party, Evangeline''s haul of presents was more extravagant with each unwrapping. Walter had his gift ready early on but held back, not wanting to join the throng around her.


    It was not that Evangeline was not grateful for the mountain of gifts, but Walter''s took her by surprise. Since their wedding, he had not given her a single present, not even a cheap bubble tea.


    The box Walter handed her was a shiny redcquer, perfectly square and fitting snugly in her palm, yet it had a surprising heft to it.


    Evangeline then understood that Walter must have been spooked by the over-the-top gifts from her uncles, so he waited until after the party to give her his own.


    She would take it, of course. Who in their right mind would turn down a present?


    Evangeline flipped open the box without a second thought and gasped. Inside was a bracelet.


    She lifted the bracelet out and held it up to the light. The green was deep and wless, cool against her skin, with a translucent pattern that seemed to pulse with life. It was as if the very essence of spring was about to spill from its curves. Evangeline was not much for jade, or so she thought, but the vibrant essence captured in this piece was utterly captivating,


    Evangeline noticed something magical about the bracelet. In different lights, its colors shifted subtly. From a distance, it shimmered with the green of a tranquilke, but up close, it took on the azure of the sky, a mesmerizing dance of blue and green hues. She had been to more auctions than she could count, eyes wide at the parade of wonders and oddities. As she gazed at the bracelet, memories and snippets of Information swirled in her head until-bingo!


    "Is this cial Crown Jade? Am I right, Walter?"


    Jade was not exactly her forte; she needed the owner''s nod to be sure.


    If this was the real deal cial Crown Jade, they were talking big bucks-somewhere between a cool hundred million and double that. With its stunning quality, it was a one-of-a-


    kind gem, literally priceless! Walter let out a softugh, his deep eyes twinkling with surprise. "Look at you, quite the connoisseur!" He did not waste a second, grabbing the bracelet from Evangeline and deftly cing it on her right wrist.


    She did not even get a say in the matter. By the time she processed what happened, the mega-expensive bracelet was hers.


    "Walter, you''re seriously gifting this to me?"


    Evangeline was floored. "We''re on the brink of divorce, You really shouldn''t be showering me withvish gifts.

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    Chapter 187


    Evangeline went to slide the bracelet off, but Walter''s hand gently stopped her.


    "It''s a Gordon family treasure. Passing it to you was Grandpa Trey''sst wish. Just keep it, for his peace of mind, okay?"


    The bracelet was icy to the touch, but somehow, it felt like it carried a bit of Trey''s warmth with it.


    Evangeline gazed at the bracelet circling her wrist, a wave of sadness washing over her. Trey had always been a rock, rooting for her and Walter to make it work, When i came to love though, what good was an old man''s blessing?


    She was not meant to be a Gordon bride, and trying to force it was just a waste of time. The bracelet felt out of ce on her arm, like a borrowed treasure she would have to give back one day. It was a gift from Trey, so she would wear it a little longer, nning to return it w She could not tell if it was all in her head, but she really dug Walter''s style tips. Checking herself out in the mirror, Evangeline could not help but smile. The deep blue and ice-


    green jade should have shed, but somehow, she pulled it off with an air of grace and ss. "Yeah, this works," she mused.


    Her moment of self-admiration was cut short by a knock. The maid''s voice filtered through the door, "Ms. Evangeline, the banquet''s kicking off, and they are asking for you downstairs."


    "Be there in a second!" she called back. She shot Walter a quick look, smoothed her hair, and headed out.


    With


    Evangeline gone, Walter felt out of ce lingering in her room, so he trailed after her.


    The banquet was in full swing. Yale Foster, Evangeline''s eldest uncle, had been parked in his seat for ages. Then he spotted Evangeline and Walter, striding in one after the other, and without missing a beat, they took their seats side by side, all eyes on them. Evangeline had never donned such a vibrant, show-stopping color before. It was so dazzling that Yale could not ignore it even if he tried. The thought that his niece might have been harassed by that lowlife again sent him rushing to her side, his voiceced with barely contained fury.


    "Why the outfit change?"


    Switching up the dress in the middle of an event was always a head-turner, but showing up with Walter added ayer of intrigue that was hard to miss.


    She could practically hear the gears turning in her uncle Yale''s head.


    Yale was sharp as a tack, and she doubted any fib would slip past him, so she opted for the truth.


    Evangeline lifted her right hand, giving Yale a glimpse of the bracelet.


    "Mr. Gordon gave this to me for my birthday. He wanted me to wear it at the party. The dress I had on before just didn''t do it justice, so I decided to change. Yale had already spotted the pricey bracelet on Evangeline''s wrist. Hearing it was a gift from Trey, he could not help but feel a pang of emotion.


    Trey really did care for Evie. A shame Walter could not measure up.


    Evangeline did not look like someone who had been pushed around though


    "As long as you''re okay. I''ve got to handle some things backstage."


    and that eased Yale''s mind,N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Yale had only stepped away because he was concerned for Evangeline, but finally reassured, he quickly returned to his hosting duties.


    Just then, Minnie wheeled Alex into the bustling scene.


    Evangeline always went for the edge seats-it was her thing. Walter plopped down right next to her, leaving just one


    spot open, Minnie did not hesitate and snagged the seat next to Walter, while Alex rolled up in his wheelchair, fitting snugly beside her. "Talk about deja vu, Mr. Walter Gordon. Here we are again." Chapter 188

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    Chapter 188


    +26 BONUS


    Minnie gave Walter a wave, her smile lighting up the room like a sunflower in full bloom.


    Walter''s eyes flickered with a hint of darkness, but he quickly shed a killer smile. "Yeah, it''s funny how that works. If I didn''t know better, I''d say you''ve got a master n to shadow me, Ms. Kast." They were all smiles andughs on the outside, but the tension ran deep- they were already sizing each other up, ready for a showdown.


    Evangeline, catching every word, tried to act like it did not bug her to see Walter getting hit on right in front of her. She shifted her gaze to Alex, trying to distract herself,


    Alex, reflecting Walter''s looks, made her wonder at the mysteries of nature. They shared the same face, yet one look was all it took to see they were night and day.


    Walter was the life of the party, sometimes a bit of a schemer, and would do anything to get what he wanted. He was a walking storm. Alex, on the other hand, was the calm after the storm-soft-


    spoken, ssy, with a vibe that said he was above the fray, always cool as a cucumber.


    What really got under Evangeline''s skin was why, oh why, with the same face, she was head over heels for bad boy Walter instead of prince charming Alex.


    Evangeline''s heart raced as she stared at the face before her, her mind painting it with the soft, tender colors that she imagined belonged to Walter.


    She was not really seeing Alex anymore; she was lost in a dream where Walter looked just the way he should in her romantic fantasies. Lost in thought, Evangeline''s gaze lingered on Alex, unblinking and full of yearning.


    To anyone watching, she seemed hopelessly smitten.


    It stung even more knowing that Walter was aware of her deep-seated crush on Alex, making her longing stares all the more piercing.


    What really got under Walter''s skin was that Alex,pletely ignoring the fact that Walter was right there between them, was shamelessly returning Evangeline''s gaze! Did they both think he was invisible?


    Walter''s patience snapped. He nudged Evangeline with his elbow, not bothering to hide his annoyance, and hissed in her ear, "Get a grip, you''re practically drooling!" Jolted back to reality, Evangeline quickly touched her mouth, only to find it dry. Walter had tricked her, and she had fallen for it like hook, line, and sinker.


    Fuming, she turned to see Walter''s face, dark with anger.


    She knew he was mad.


    Why should she care about his mood now? He could chat up a storm with a pretty girl, and she was not allowed to even look at a good-looking guy? Whose rule was that? With an eye roll, Evangeline settled back into her seat, letting the program''s background music wash over her as she closed her eyes to rest.


    Images of Walter danced through her mind, each imagined gesture tugging at her heartstrings. Was she really daydreaming about Walter?


    Evangeline was kicking herself for being so weak, but what could she do when her heart had already taken the plunge?


    Unbeknownst to her, the sight of Walter and Evangeline''s flirty banter was driving Minnie up the wall.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline''s game had leveled up in just a few days. She was ying hard to get, making eyes at other guys just to get Walter all riled up with jealousy. And her Walt, bless his heart, was totally falling for it!


    A devious glint sparked in Minnie''s eyes, her smile turning wicked with intent.


    ''Evangeline, did you really think I''d let you off easy? You''re after Walt? Fine, I''ll throw you into the spotlight and see how you like that.''

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    Chapter 189


    After giving Alex a meaningful look, Minnie got up and cozied up next to Evangeline, tapping her hand ever so lightly.


    "Evangeline, why the closed eyes? Tired from the birthday celebrations?"


    Minnie''s sudden show of concern surprised Evangeline. She could not quite figure out Minnie''s angle but managed a polite reply. "I''m holding up. Ms. Kast. Need something?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Small talk was not Evangeline''s thing, especially not with someone like Minnie, whose agenda she could not quite pin down.


    Minnie let out a yfulugh. "Need something? Not really. Just got to thinking about my own parties back home while watching the birthday girl do her thing."


    Minnie''s trip down memoryne piqued Evangeline''s interest. "Oh? Aren''t all parties pretty much the same? What happened at yours?"


    Minnie gave a shy smile. "It''s really no big deal. The birthday girl or boy just has to hop on stage and put on a little show for everyone. It''s kind of like a fun way to show off what you''ve got." Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with intrigue.


    All this fuss from Minnie just to get her to do a performance?


    Before Evangeline could even get a word in, Minnie went on, "Evangeline, you''re so talented. I figured, since you''ve got skills, why not unt them a bit? Let everyone see what you''re made of!" Evangeline nced over at Alex and caught him looking, well, rather embarrassed. Minnie had clearly struck a chord.


    1000000


    Alex was the strong, silent type, not one to go around chatting about people.


    Part of Evangeline felt warmed that Alex had brought her up to Minnie, but another part of her was super curious about what was going on between those two.


    It was clear as day that Alex would not have said a peep unless they were tight.


    "Maybe another time," demurred Evangeline. "You''re giving me way too much credit. I''m prettyid back and not exactly brimming with talent."


    Minnie''s digging was as subtle as a sledgehammer. Evangeline yed it cool, trying to figure out what Minnie was really after.


    "No way, Evangeline, you''re just being humble. I came all this way because I heard about you. You wouldn''t let me down, would you?"


    Minnie''s voice took on a whiny, cajoling tone.


    Weirdly enough, it sounded eerily familiar to Evangeline, like she had heard it somewhere before.


    When Minnie kept pushing her idea even after being turned down, it was obvious she was trying to put her on the spot.


    Minnie''s motives were pretty shady.


    +25 BONU:


    Pushing her doubts aside, she decided to y along with Minnie''s game.


    "So, what do you think I should perform?" she asked.


    She shot a loaded nce at Alex, who had not said a word. "Since Alex has already bragged to you about my many talents, he must''ve mentioned what I''m best at, right?"


    To anyone watching, it looked like Evangeline was letting Minnie call the shots.


    In truth, she could not care less about this talent show-off. She was just curious to see what Minnie woulde up with.


    What Evangeline did not realize was that this yed right into Minnie''s hands.


    Minnie''s face lit up with a triumphant grin, and she said in a yful whine, "He wouldn''t share that kind of info with me. But I''ve heard that you''re a violin virtuoso, so how about you treat us to some violin?" Evangeline almostughed scornfully at that.


    "Ms. Kast, you might''ve gotten that wrong."

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    "Between you and me, I have a half-sister named Julia, and ying the violin is her thing."


    Julia''s violin skills were no joke; she was the celebrated violin goddess of Avalon City. Oddly enough, Minnie brought up Julia''s specialty to Evangeline.


    A spark of recognition shed in Evangeline''s eyes, and looking at Minnie again, she could not shake the feeling that this woman bore an uncanny resemnce to the mysteriously missing Julia.


    Minnie shook her head with much conviction. "No way, I couldn''t have gotten it wrong. Plus, I brought my violin just for the chance to y with you!"Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Alex, seeing this, jumped in with a scolding tone. "Cut it out, Minnie. It''s Evie''s birthday bash, not a talent show. What''s the point of this stunt?"


    Evangeline knew all too well that Alex was looking out for her. However, she was more interested in Walter''s reaction. That guy always seemed to be on a mission to contradict her. With Minnie putting her on the spot, Walter was bound to jump at the chance to throw her un "Alex, you''re off base here," Walter chimed in, his annoyance palpable. "Didn''t you go on about how great Evangeline is with the violin? Why the sudden change of heart, ying her defender?"


    The mere mention of the violin made Walter''s blood boil. He had always thought that only Evangeline''s sister, Julia, was the violinist in the family. The idea that Evangeline had this secret talent-and that Alex knew about it before he did-was like a p in the face, Then, in a twist.....


    "Walter, don''t you know your own wife''s skills with the violin? Why push her into some pointlesspetition?"


    Alex''s clever jab hit its mark, leaving Walter, who seemed clueless about his wife''s abilities, red-faced with embarrassment.


    Walter was ever the same, though. "Sure, my wife is mine, but who really has her heart, Alex? You seem to know all about that, don''t you?" His words were a thinly veiled usation of something more between Alex and Evangeline.


    "You jerk!" Alex''s face flushed with anger, the words slipping out before he could stop them.


    Walter


    rugged off the tension with a scoff and turned to Minnie, "Ms. Kast, Towe you one. Who knew my wife was a violinist until you came along?"


    Minnie''s gaze was yful, her eyes dancing with mischief as she looked at Walter, "So, Mr. Walter Gordon, how do you n to thank me?" She put a little extra punch on the word ''thank, making it clear it was not just gratitude she was after. The adults in the room caught th no subtlety there. Evangeline''s frown deepened as she watched the flirty exchange. It was like a bad rerun of Julia, another woman, trying to charm Walter right in front of her. Different face, same ybook.


    A wild thought crossed her mind. Could Minnie actually be the elusive Ju?


    Walter shed a sly grin, ying hard to get. "Gratitude from me isn''t easy toe by. Why don''t you impress Evangeline first?"


    He was all for Evangeline showing off her skills. Anything was better than her cozying up to Alex with those lovey-dovey looks.


    "Don''t hold back now. Give us a violin show that''ll knock our socks off!" Walter''s voice, already dripping with allure, took on an extrayer of charm as he spoke to Minnie, practically oozing seduction. However, even as he flirted, his eyes kept straying to Evangeline, watchi

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    Yeah, Walter definitely did it on purpose. He was dying to find out if Evangeline would turn green with envy seeing him flirt with another girl right in front of her. Nheless, Evangeline shot Walter a nk look before her eyesnded on Minnie. "Looks like there''s no way out of ying the violin today," she said. "Ms. Kast, just ying together is kinda boring, don''t you think? How about we spice things up with a little wager? It''ll make our face-off more exciting." Minnie had been hoping for this moment.


    Back when she went by Julia, she had never heard a peep about Evangeline ying the violin. This showdown was in the bag-Evangeline did not stand a chance.


    Of course, Minnie yed it cool. "Oh, wouldn''t that be awkward? If I win against the birthday girl, it''ll be such a p in your face, won''t it?" Minnie asked innocently. Evangeline let out a cold huff. If Minnie really saw herself as the birthday girl, she would not pull a stunt like this.


    Arguing about it at this point would just be petty.


    "There''s no shame in it. It''s my party, my rules. We''re all here to have a good time, and nobody''s going to take it personally."


    Evangeline did not give Minnie any room to chicken out. She signaled the performers to stop, strutted onto the stage gracefully, grabbed the mic, and kept her intro short and sweet. "Hey, everyone, I''m Evangeline."


    Her voice rocked the room, and cheers filled the air..


    The rich kids who had been tripping over themselves to get close to Evangeline even let out a few whistles


    The vibe in the room went from zero to 60 in a heartbeat.


    Evangeline raised her hand, and like magic, the buzz dropped back to a hush.


    "First off, huge thanks to everyone who showed up for my birthday party. I''m really excited.


    "Next up, since I''ve been showered with your good vibes, it wouldn''t be cool for me to just stand here without giving something back. So, my pal Minnie Kast and I cooked up ast-minute idea-This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    a violin showdown to crank up the fun. Minnie and I will each y a tune on our violins, and you all get to y judge Highest score wins."


    Her announcement sent a wave of cheers rippling through the crowd.


    A wealthy heir kicked things off with a whistle that cut through the noise, then hollered from the back, Judging is cool and all, but what''s on the line? Without some skin in the game, it''s just not as fun for us "spectators!" The crowd echoed his sentiment with a wave of nods and murmurs.


    Evangeline put on her best ''I''m puzzled'' face. "You got me there. Minnie and I didn''t think up any stakes. How about you all pitch in some ideas?"


    Just then, Walter popped up from the sea of faces.


    "If we''re stuck on the stakes, why don''t I throw an idea Into the ring?"


    All eyes were on him.


    Walter gazed at Evangeline with a look too flirty forfort.


    Evangeline felt a twinge of something bad brewing.


    This dude was all for her and Minnie''s onstage showdown, but his motives were anything but pure.


    However, with their rtionship being the talk of the town, and Walter having thrown down the gauntlet, no one else was about to rain on that parade.


    With everyone''s eyes on her, Evangeline knew that snubbing Walter would do no favors for the Fosters or the Gordons. Weighing her options, she decided to y along. "Alright, I''m listening."

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    Walter faced the crowd and announced confidently, "Well then, I won''t hold back. Since we''re celebrating our birthday star today, let''s raise the stakes. If you lose, how about you choose one of your gifts from tonight to give to Ms. Kast?" The challenge sent a collective gasp through the room.


    The night''s haul for Evangeline was nothing less than five million in value.


    As for Minnie-just who was she? If she won, it would be like hitting a jackpot.


    "Deal."


    Evangeline did not even pause to think. In any game, there was a chance to win or lose, and she was ready for either.


    She was not the least bit concerned.


    No sooner had Walter finished speaking than she had picked out the gift she would part with if she lost. In full view of the crowd, Evangeline lifted her right wrist, showing off the cial Crown Jade bracelet Walter had just gifted her. "If I lose the bet, I''ve got my gift ready. It''s the bracelet Mr. Walter gave me."


    She was no longer tied to the Gordons, and wearing their family heirloom did not feel right. Handing it over through Minnie might just be the perfect solution.


    Even more than that, she was curious to see what would happen next.


    "What''s in it for me if Ie out on top?"


    Walter''s heart pounded with fury when he caught sight of the gift Evangeline had picked out.


    ''Evangeline, you''re being too much!! he thought.


    All he wanted was to avoid watching her exchange those flirty nces with Alex, but Evangeline just had to use this chance to spring a nasty surprise on him!


    He fought to keep his emotions from boiling over. Walter had a n brewing.


    He would do whatever it took to make sure that family heirloom bracelet stayed on Evangeline''s wrist.


    With the oue pretty much in the bag, Walter allowed himself to rx and shot a sly look at Minnie." Ms. Kast, that''s a pretty dress you''ve got on. How about if you lose, you strip it off and hand it over to Evangeline, deal?" All eyes swiveled to Minnie.


    She was decked out in a pale green dress today, its elegance making her look stunningly graceful.


    If Evangeline lost, it was just tossing out a big present like it was nothing. If Minnie lost, she would have to undress right there and then. The stakes were obviously imbnced.


    The bet alone was a dead giveaway of Walter''s soft spot for Evangeline.


    Too bad Minnie was not on the same page as the rest.


    Actually, the moment Evangeline mentioned that the bracelet was a gift from Walter, Minnie''smon sense took a one-way trip to outer space.


    She was dead set on getting her hands on anything that had to do with Walter. Even if Walt was not keen on giving it to her, there was no way she would let Evangeline walk away with it!


    She was absolutely convinced that Walter had tossed out the prize so casually because he was sure of her victory.


    "Deal!"


    As the crowd gasped in astonishment, Minnie epted the challenge without a second thought. Her gaze locked onto Walter, her eyes zing with an unshakeable resolve to im her prize. "Walt, just you wait and see. That gift is as good as mine!" By the time Yale emerged from backstage, the stage was set.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The crew had cleared the area, leaving only Minnie and Evangeline to face off in their impromptu showdown.


    It would not be fair for Evangeline to go first on her birthday, so Minnie stepped up to perform.


    The sweet strains of the apaniment filled the air, and Minnie, violin in hand, glided onto the stage with elegance.

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    Minnie''s hands worked magic, coaxing from the violin �� melody that was both haunting and exquisite.


    Evangeline, waiting in the wings and not showing a trade of nerves, beamed as she watched Minnie y.pletely captivated by the performance.


    Yale, who had been keeping an eye on the front of the house from backstage, was struck by the scene before him.


    He sidled up to Evangeline, gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder to catch her attention, and whispered, Evie, aren''t you up against Minnie? Howe you don''t look the least bit worried?"


    f


    The cial Crown Jade bracelet was worth a fortune. It was even more valuable than the ring Cole gave.


    Was Evangeline really not bothered about staking such a treasure?


    Evangeline just gave a carefree chuckle in response. "Why should I be freaking out? It''s just a bracelet, isn''t it? If I lose, I lose. It''s not like it''s mine or anything.


    Yale was at a total loss for words right then. It hit him that Evangeline had not even thought about winning when she threw down the gauntlet to Minnie. No wonder she was as cool as a cucumber. Even so, that bracelet...This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    After mulling it over, Yale could not help but sh his niece a big thumbs up. "Evie, you''re totally rocking it like a true Foster family princess. You''ve got style!"


    The thought of losing that top-notch imperial green jade made his heart ache. Evangeline, however, did not even bat an eysh!


    Yale realized his own outlook was pretty narrow, and he made a mental note to take a page out of his niece''s book from then on.


    Time flew, and Minnie''s performance came to an end.


    It was finally Evangeline''s turn, the star everyone had been waiting for.


    She walked onto the stage, violin in hand, brushing past Minnie who had just finished her piece.


    Then, in that brief encounter, disaster struck.


    The microphone, crystal clear, picked up the sound of a violin string snapping. The jarring noise was so loud that Evangeline had to cover her ears. Once the din died down, she looked down at the violin cradled in her arms.


    The string had snapped clean off.


    The break was too neat, too deliberate, like it had been sliced with a de rather than worn down or neglected.


    A glint of determination shed in Evangeline''s eyes.


    She had made sure to put on new strings and tune them perfectly before stepping on stage, and yet, the string had snapped so suddenly.


    cily cut her violin string with a de as they


    ght of Minnie''s smug grin in the crowd. Winning to show off her violin skills to everyone. Her n lory.


    vangeline could not spot her dirty tricks from a


    arm and confident, her eyes gleaming with wn? I''m going to own it.''


    id


    string for her violin. Instead, she gave a regretful


    my hands are a bit out of whack. I messed up slip-up, I won''t bother with a new string. I''ll just

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    The moment Evangeline''s words hit the air, the birthday party crowd erupted into excited cheers. The violin was a beast of an instrument, demanding mad skills to y solo and make it sing. That was why every single one of its four strings was super important Despite that, Evangeline boldly dered she would y a violin with a busted string! The crowd buzzed with chatter, wondering what would happen next.


    "Can Ms. Evangeline really y even with a broken string? How else could she be so sure of herself?"


    One person snorted in disbelief, "Even the violinists who are famous around the world wouldn''t dare to make


    such a bold im in front of an audience. Is she really as good as those legends? I bet she''s just showing off to us, who wouldn''t know any better. She''s bound to lose this match with Minnie!"


    Yet, someone else was not convinced.


    "I still can''t believe it. The only well-known violinist in Avalon City is her sister, Julia, Maybe Ms. Evangeline picked up a few tricks from her? But you''re right about one thing-we''re just amateurs who know what sounds nice, not-the subtleties of the music." Evangeline overheard all their chatter.


    She had not cared about beating Minnie before, but with Minnie ying dirty and the crowd questioning her talent, she feltpelled to prove them all wrong.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    So, she picked out a notoriously difficult piece to y along with the violin apaniment.


    It did not matter that the crowd was full of novices. There was at least one connoisseur in the audience, right?


    With a haughty look, she nced down at Minnie.


    The apaniment had barely begun.


    Minnie''s face went from pale to ghostly white.


    She was not mistaken-the piece that was starting backstage was the infamous ''Redemption'', the violin masterpiece that made the legendary Loberni a household name! With that, Evangeline''s performance took off.


    Evangeline''s fingers danced, her bow slicing through the air with practiced ease. Even with one string missing, she wove a spellbinding melody, her chords reaching a crescendo that left the audience breathless. As thest note quivered into silence, the room erupted in cheers and apuse.


    Minnie''s face was a stormy mix of purple and rage. She bit down hard on her teeth, her mind reeling. Thepetition was over, and she could not fathom the reality that Evangeline-her half-sister who was always overlooked by the Rearden family-had just outyed her. How could Evangeline, who never had the chance to learn the violin, pull off those intricate plucks that Minnie herself had never mastered?


    A dark thought crept into Minnie''s mind. Had their father been secretly nurturing Evangeline''s talent while openly favoring her? Bitterness flooded her heart like a tidal wave. "Evangeline, you lowlife! I''ll make sure


    you''re utterly destroyed," she vowed silently.


    With the final note still echoing, Evangeline raised her violin, its broken string dangling, and gave Minnie a defiant look. It was the ultimate taunt from the true victor.

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    Truth be told, Evangeline never cared for such theatrics. She believed in the strength of the self-


    reliant, and she did not need everyone''s eyes on her or their empty praise. Nheless, Minnie had crossed a line, and Evangeline was not one to back down. She might not seek attention, but that did not mean she could notmand it. However, there was something Evangeline did not realize: Walter waspletely engrossed in Evangeline''s performance from start to finish.


    He did not know anything about violins, but Evangeline''s ying was so incredible that even he, a total neer to the music scene, was blown away by her amazing talent and the gorgeous sounds she coaxed from her instrument. "Evangeline, oh Evangeline, what other secrets do you have up your sleeve that I haven''t discovered yet? I''m getting more curious about you by the minute,'' thought Walter.


    The Foster family brothers, among the crowd watching Evangeline''s show, could not stop raving about her. They were totally wowed.


    Alex, parked in his wheelchair, kept his cool as if nothing could faze him. He had known all along that Evangeline was a violin virtuoso.


    Someone in the crowd started talking about the bet tied to the contest.


    "I remember the deal was that if Evangeline lost, she''d have to hand over her wrist bracelet to Minnie. But, now that Minnie''s the one who lost, what was she supposed to give up again?"


    The way they said it was dripping with sarcasm. They were not actually trying to remember, they were stirring the pot to remind everyone else.


    Sure enough, someone took the bait.


    "Minnie''s bet was her dress, wasn''t it?"


    "That''s right, she was supposed to give her dress to Evangeline right then and there if she lost. Geez, stripping down in front of all of us? Talk about a blush-worthy moment!"


    It was obvious to everyone that Evangeline was in a league of her own, and her earlier boastful talk had just crumbled away.


    In the time it took to y just one tune, the mood in the room had done aplete 180.


    The Fosters were far from broke, so when Evangelineid down the bet involving Minnie''s dress, everyone smelled a rat


    Minnie had stepped on Evangeline''s toes by challenging her to a contest, so Evangeline itched to teach her a lesson she would not forget.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    As the crowd pieced it all together, all eyes turned to Minnie.


    The room fell into a rare hush, with everyone eager to see if Minnie would hold up her end of the deal.


    Feeling the weight of their stares, Minnie stood up, her difort clear. "Evangeline, I may have lost, but I''m still a guest at your birthday party. Stripping down in front of everyone... Isn''t that a bit much?" she


    ventured.


    Her words set off a wave of support for Evangeline.


    "You''re the one who stirred the pot, and now that you''ve lost, you''re trying to weasel out of the consequences?"


    "Ms. Evangeline, don''t let her off the hook. We''ve got your back!"


    The chant "Don''t let her off the hook!" filled the room.


    Evangeline had not expected Minnie''s defiance to spark such an uproar. It was her party, and a scandal was thest thing she wanted, but the crowd''s fervor left her torn.


    Just then, Alex wheeled himself up to the front, signaling to Evangeline with a gesture.


    Catching on, Evangeline quickly handed him the mic. "Everyone, just chill for a second. I''ve got something to say."


    The room went silent as Alex took the floor,manding respect.


    It looked like everyone


    was on the edge of their seats, waiting to see what kind of spin Alex would put on the situation to get Minnie out of hot water.

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    Ms. Kast is one of my students. She''s still pretty young and just got back from overseas, so she''s not quite up to speed with how we do things here. Let''s cut her some ck, okay?" Alex tried to smooth things over for Minnie. The crowd was not having any of it.


    "So she doesn''t know the rules? That''s her excuse for getting all up in Ms. Evangeline''s face? No way, she''s got to pay up-she has to take off that dress today!"


    They were adamant, and Alex, with a worried look creasing his brow, still tried to keep his cool as he responded, "Look, Ms. Kast did lose thepetition, but making a girl strip down in front of all of us? Isn''t that going a bit too far? Who''s going to deal with the fallout on he Alex had a point, and the room went quiet.


    "I get it, you guys aren''t trying to be harsh on her just for the sake of it. You''re just ticked off because she dissed Ms. Evangeline. So here''s what I propose: I''ll step in as the peacekeeper.


    "Evie, Minnie didn''t get the rules and she stepped on your toes. How about she just apologizes to you right here, right now? The whole stripping thing could blow up into something bigger than we want. If word gets out, it''ll look like the Fosters are throwing their weight around, picking on a kid."


    Evangeline was not that interested in watching Minnie strip down either. She was stuck between a rock. and a hard ce because of the guests and had kept silent about it.


    With Alex stepping in to smooth things over, she saw her chance to back down without losing face and to shake off any bad vibes from today''s violin showdown.


    "Okay, since that''s how you see it, I guess it''s only fair that Iy out where I stand. The violin contest today was just a whim. I stepped up to y for one simple reason-to make you all smile. And if everyone had a good time watching, that''s all that matters to me. "As for Minnie apologizing? I really don''t think we need to go there. She came to my birthday bash to wish me well, as my esteemed guest. It wouldn''t be right for her to apologize to me."This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline was not one to sweat the small stuff. She had only just met Minnie, and even though Minnie had been pretty rude a few times, it was not like they were archenemies or anything. It was all about being the bigger person, especially with Alex watching. If a little violin showdown could nudge Minnie to not cross her anymore, that was plenty


    Minnie had been sure she would end up having to do the walk of shame-stripping down as her


    punishment. Fortunately, Alex stepped in, smoothed things over, and she was


    front of everyone.


    She did not have to strip or apologize. How could she not be thrilled?


    even ready to say sorry in


    However, there was no way she was going to give that lowlife Evangeline the satisfaction. She was convinced Evangeline was just ying the saint to win everyone over.


    The nicer she was to Minnie, the more she looked like the queen of cool to the crowd, raking in all their love and admiration!


    Minnie had only lost the contest because she had underestimated Evangeline, and watching her rake in all this acim was more than she could stand.


    So, with a poised stride, she approached Alex and took the mic from his hand.


    "Big thanks to Evangeline for being so gracious. I just got back from overseas and I''m still a bit out of the loop with how things are done here. If I''ve overstepped, I''m sorry. Evangeline''s generosity made me think of my own sister back home. "I know I''m not in the same league as Evangeline, so I just hope we can be friends. What do you think?"

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    Evangeline could not help but smirk at the woman standing before her.


    Minnie was quick on her feet.


    Just when she was about to score some major points for her reputation, this woman swooped in with an act of feigned innocence and then cozied up to her, all in a bid to score some poprity points.


    Normally, Evangeline would have just nodded along, doing the easy favor without a second thought. However, since Minnie had tried to push her limits, Evangeline was far from willing.


    A smile hung on Evangeline''s face, but she remained silent, her demeanor frosty.


    The room plunged into an awkward silence, and Minnie, desperate to break it, started rambling into the microphone about nothing in particr.


    Alex, trying to lighten the mood, cracked a joke and finally shattered the tension. "Minnie, you''re reaching too far. How could you be friends with Evie? Evie should be your mentor." Minnie quicklytched onto his words, "Yes, yes, you''re right. I was thinking too simply."


    Her words were smooth and polite, but her eyes sent a chilling re Evangeline''s way.


    Evangeline instinctively squinted, exchanged a few chilly greetings, and put an end to the whole charade. Backstage, Evangeline''s heart was racing, and it would not slow down. The resemnce was uncanny!


    Minnie and Julia were so alike, especially that spiteful re she just gave her. It was just like Julia''s. Was it even possible for two people who have never crossed paths to have identical sparks in their eyes? They look so much alike, especially around the eyebrows and eye She was starting to wonder if Minnie was actually Julia, back from a secret stic surgery makeover! No, that could not be right.


    Minnie and Julia did look alike around the eyes, but if she really looked, their differences were pretty clear. Plus, if Julia did go under the knife, there was no way she would be looking like this so quickly.


    The biggest thing was that Alex and Julia were like two ships that never met in the night. How could they ever end up together?


    Evangeline shook off the silly thought, patting her chest to calm her racing heart.


    In just one night, Evangeline became a violin prodigy, beating the so-called ''trashy girl'' Minnie with a three- stringed violin, and the gossip flew through Avalon City like wildfire. Minnie, fresh from overseas, earned herself the ''trashy girl''bel.


    Evangeline''s thoughts turned to Alex, and at that same moment, her phone buzzed with his name.


    "Evie, are you busy with work these days?"


    Evangeline was swamped.


    Evangeline had be the head of the Foster family. Sure, her uncle and Hank were on top of the business stuff, but some things just needed her personal touch.


    Alex''s out-of-the-blue concern was not just hot air, though. Evangeline yed it cool with her reply.


    "I''m doing alright. What''s up?"N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    "Well, I got this job at Avalon Unive

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    Evangeline''s brow furrowed on the other end of the line.


    "You''ve barely unpacked from your trip abroad. Why the rush to work?"


    She figured Alex would chill for a bit, maybe catch up with Trey before diving into the job scene. It seemed he was already on the move.


    Alex let out a sigh, pretending to be trapped by circumstance. "What can I do? The jobnded in myp, and the higher-ups said, ''Get over here now.'' So, I went. Evangeline could not help but smirk.


    For any regr personing back from overseas, hustling for a quick buck made sense, but this was Alex.


    The same Alex who once made a fortune for the Gordons! Money troubles? As if.


    "Spill it, Alex. Since when do you need cash? What''s the real deal?"


    Their friendship went way back, even without bringing Walter into the mix. They could shoot straight with each other.


    Alex hesitated, his voice tinged with the awkwardness of a nerve hit. Then, like he was done fighting it, he admitted in a calm voice, "Just bored."


    "What?" Evangeline was momentarily stunned.


    "You heard me right, being cooped up at home is just too dull."


    Alex sounded like he was at his breaking point, and Evangeline picked up on a touch of frustration in his voice.


    She understood, of course. Alex''s idea of ''dull'' was not just about twiddling his thumbs; it was more about feeling lost. He just did not fit into the Gordon family lifestyle anymore.


    It made sense upon second thought. Alex had been away for years, and he came back on a wheelchair, facing a world that had flipped upside down. No wonder he felt like a fish out of water.


    Under those circumstances, getting a job might actually be a good thing.


    *So you headed over to Avalon University to keep busy?" Evangeline''s voice rose-yfully, teasing, "And why did you call me today? Surely you''re not expecting me toe and hang out when I''ve got nothing better to do?" e still +Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She and Walter married, and Alex, being Walter''s rtive, meant getting too chummy could stir up trouble.


    "That crossed my mind." Alex deadpanned, not letting Evangeline get a word in edgewise, then added, " But all kidding aside, I''m actually here to extend an invitation from the school for you to join us at Avalon University as a guest professor. "You might be in the dark here, but at the birthday party, Evie, you shot to stardom with your violin performance. Your name''s been buzzing ever since. And it just so happens that Avalon University is short


    a star professor. The Gordons and the Fosters go way back, so the school figured I''d be the one to reach


    out.


    *Reach out? You make it sound like we''re spies in some sort of secret meeting."


    Evangeline''sughter rang out, bright and full of joy. "I may not have a degree from the Department of Music, but Avalon University is still my old stomping ground. If they think I''ve got what it takes to teach the kids a thing or two about the violin, I''m all in." "Great, it''s a deal. I''ll see you at the school."


    Evangeline was all about getting things done. Once she had smoothly passed her work off to Hank, she hopped in her car and headed for Avalon University.


    She was greeted by the sight of the familiar campus gates and the friendly face of the old security guard.


    It had been ages since she hadst set foot at her alma mater, and she came back as a teacher. Life sure knew how to keep things interesting.


    With so many students having passed through Avalon University''s gates, it was unlikely the security guard would remember her. Yet, as she pulled up, the

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    As Evangeline rolled down her window, she was met with a surprisingly gentle face, so different from the stern, unyielding security guard who used to give her a hard time about leaving campus. "I heard you wereing today. Go on in."


    The electronic gates swung open, and she drove onto the campus grounds,


    Her timing could have been better; Alex was tied up in a meeting.


    Once she knew where to find him, and keeping in mind his trouble with walking, Evangeline made her way to him.


    In the conference room on the thirteenth floor of the main teaching building, all the teachers of Avalon University were gathered, led by Vice Chancellor Tarry Dentwil, to kick off the day''s meeting.


    Evangeline had barely reached the conference room door on the rarely visited thirteenth floor when she noticed the door was carelessly left cracked open. The voices from the meeting inside were crystal clear. "Okay, so the main point of today''s meeting is to lock in our ch


    "I had our new colleague, Professor Alex, give her an invite. I was bracing for a bit of back-and-forth since Ms. Evangeline''s got a lot on her te, but she said ''yes'' right off the bat. Smooth sailing."


    Tarry adjusted his sses, his eyes shining with respect as theynded on Alex, and he could not hide the smugness in his voice.


    The room went dead silent at his words.


    Out of nowhere, a middle-aged teacher with braids at the table huffed in disdain.


    "So, Tarry, if you''ve already picked your favorite, why drag us here? It''s always your call in the Music Department anyway. Are you just trying to make yourself look good by making us sit through this pointless show?"


    Tarry''s face soured. "Hold on, Garold, what''s that supposed to mean? ''Sit through this pointless show? You can''t be sore at me just because I didn''t pick you to teach violin to the kids!"


    "Why on earth would you pick Evangeline, a kid who''s barely out of diapers, to be this famous professor? Do you really think we''re all idiots, clueless about what''s going on?" Garold stood up furiously, his hand crashing down on the table with a loud thud.


    "It''s as clear as day what you''re up to, Tarry. Everyone here can see right through your little schemes. We''re all just trying to make a living, and nobody''s going to disrespect you, the vice-


    chancellor. So cut the act and stop ying innocent! I know that after I say all this, I won''t be able to work at Avalon University anymore." Garold smirked.


    "But since I''ve got the guts to speak up, I''ve already decided I''m not sticking around. Do whatever you want, but I''m done serving this ce!"


    As Garold turned to leave, Tarry bellowed, "Garold, freeze right there!


    "You think you can drop a couple of cryptic bombs, dust off your pants, and just walk out? Who do you think you are?


    "If you don''t want to work here, fine. Hand in your resignation the proper way, and you''re free to go. I won''t hold you back. But you owe me an exnation for your usations today! I''ve been working my tail off to find good teachers for this school, so what''s this nonsenseContent ? N?velDrama.Org.

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    Outside the conference room, Evangeline recognized that unmistakable voice. It was Tarry, famous for his stubbornness back when she was a student. Garold, though, she did not remember at all. However, that was not odd. She was not a music department student, so why would she know their faculty?


    It looked like Tarry had met his match in Garold, who seemed even more headstrong. It was bound to be quite the showdown.


    As for whether she would end up teaching at Avalon University, she was not too fussed about it.


    Evangeline did not have much to do, so she grabbed a stool and sat down, watching the showdown in the conference room like it was some kind of secret tea party.


    Tarry was not ying favorites this time, not with Garold or anyone else.


    "Okay, everyone, not just Garold-if you''ve got beef with my decision, today''s the day to air it out. Speak your mind, because you won''t get another shot at this!


    The room was full of uneasy nces. A few people looked like they were about to speak, their mouths. opening and closing, but whatever was holding them back, they stayed silent.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Garold, already on Tarry''s bad side, figured he had nothing left to lose. He marched back to his seat, but instead of sitting, he stood tall and dered, "If no one else will break the ice, I will.


    "Avalon University''s Department of Music is a breeding ground for the nation''s musical prodigies. That''s a huge honor for our school. But do you even give a hoot about that?


    "We''ve got the experience, we''re young, and we know what''stest in music. But Evangeline? What''s her deal? Does she even deserve to teach at our Department of Music? Or is she just riding on the Foster family''s coattails to add a little shine to her name? "But Mr. Dentwil, we''re supposed to be role models, right? We can''t just stand by and let a bad apple like her corrupt our students."


    No sooner had Garold finished his rant than a chorus of agreement filled the conference room. "Garold is right! Who knew Evangeline could y the violin? We wouldn''t have a clue if she hadn''t made that bet with Minnie at her birthday party. And let''s be real, the Fosters t couldn''t let Evangeline lose to some outsider like Minnie. That would''ve been a major diss to the Fosters'' reputation."


    "Totally. The way the media is hyping Evangeline, you''d think she''s some kind of violin goddess. Come on, we''ve all been in the music game for years. Even if we''re not all about the violin, we get the gist. And Redemption''? That''s Loberni''s im to fame! Even with a prope Evangeline finally understood.


    So, the music department''s old guard doubted her chops because of her fancy family, and they were not thrilled about her getting a job at Avalon University.


    She breathed a heavy sigh.


    Teaching violin was nothing troublesome.


    These old-timers questioning her worth were what got under her skin.


    Loberni, the violinist they revered, was actually her mentor.

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    Evangeline was on the verge of rising to showcase her prowess to everyone.


    The conference room was abuzz when Tarry, at his wit''s end, bellowed, " Quiet down, everyone!"Content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    With the room silenced, he pressed on, "Look, I get it. You''re all worried, and that''s fair. But I''ve sent Mr. Alex Gordon to fetch Ms. Evangeline, and she''ll be here any minute. To iron out this whole mess, I say we give Ms. Evangeline a shot.


    "If she nails the gig as our music department''s new violin teacher, we''ll give her a month to prove herself. If she doesn''t wow us, then she''s just not cut out for it. Our department isn''t a yground for amateurs. If she''s not up to the task, she won''t stick around, will she?" This middle ground seemed like the best way to tackle the issue at hand.


    Everyone bought into the idea, and the meeting rolled onto the next agenda,


    item.


    Evangeline, upon hearing the n, did not rush into the room to make her case. Instead, she settled back onto her stool.


    A one-month trial? Piece of cake. She was itching to show these talent-blind folks what she was made of.


    It was not just about proving herself. As the prizedst protege of the legendary violinist Loberni, she had a reputation to uphold!


    What Evangeline did not seeing was an unexpected twist.


    When Alex rang her up, David, who hade to escort Walter to the office, overheard the call loud and clear.


    With Walter tied up in a bigwig international meeting, David did not dare tell him.


    Once the meeting wrapped up, David finally got his chance to fill Walter in, but as he stood before his boss, David found himself wavering.


    Was he about to talk bad about Evangeline and Alex behind their backs?


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, there''s something... I''m not sure if I should bring it up."


    Walter massaged his forehead, sensing that David was holding back, which was unlike him.


    He was tired from the meeting and slightly irked with David, so he cut straight to the chase. "Spit it out if you''ve got something to say, or just drop it!"


    David pulled a wry smile, "Just don''t call me a gossip after I tell you, okay?"


    He knew Walter''s moods could flip like a switch, and it was this unpredictability that made David cautious. He had noticed a shift in Walter''s feelings for Evangeline, and he feltpelled to speak up.


    "While I was waiting outside during your meeting, I overheard Mr. Alex Gordon on the phone with Ms. Evangeline.


    Walter bristled at the name ''Ms. Evangeline'', barely listening to the rest, and quickly corrected with a hint of annoyance, "Mrs. Gordon."


    Catching on, David got to the heart of the matter, "Mr. Alex Gordon called Mrs. Gordon, saying he wanted to invite her to teach violin at Avalon University''s music department."


    Walter''s demeanor shifted to high alert, his presence so intimidating that David hardly dared to take a deep breath.


    "If I''m not wrong, Alex was supposed to be at Avalon University''s music department today to give a report, wasn''t he?"


    He never paid attention to Alex''s schedule; the scraps of information he had picked up were snatched from Trey''s grumbling over breakfast.


    "Yeah, you got it right."


    The hum of the car engine filled the air as David started the car professionally, his voice barely above a whisper.


    Chai 201


    Truth be told, David was scared out of his wits.


    Walter''s beef with Alex had to be serious.


    At this moment, he was in a real pickle. What on earth was he supposed to say if he bumped into Alex?

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    A sleek ck Range Rover, understated but shining with luxury, zipped down the street, while Walter did not hesitate to ring up Evangeline.


    Lucky for her, the thirteenth floor of the main teaching building was a ghost town, and the conference room was buzzing with chatter, so her phone''s sudden ring went unnoticed. She saw Walter''s name on the screen, and her brow creased with annoyance.


    To dodge his relentless nagging and not put off her chat with the school folks, she figured she had better get this headache out of the way.


    The moment she answered, Evangeline let her irritation show, no holds barred. "Mr. Walter Gordon, in


    e you missed the memo, we''re about to be exes. If it''s not life-threatening, can you not mess with my day, please?"


    She had worked hard to lock away her feelings for Walter. If he kept popping up, how was she supposed to forget him?


    Walter was having none of it, even more ticked off than she was. "Who says. I''ve got nothing important? Trust me, this is top-tier urgent!"


    Evangeline''s finger itched to end the call, not in the mood to waste a single


    breath on him.


    "Okay, spill it," said Evangeline, trying to keep her cool.


    "Where are you right now?"


    The question caught Evangeline off guard, and she looked around rather warily.


    "I''m at the Avalon University Music Department. What''s up? Why does it matter where I am?"N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Walter let out a mockingugh. "Because it''s got everything to do with what I need from you. I''m on my way to Avalon University. Meet me at the front gate!"


    The call ended with a beep, leaving Evangeline staring at her phone, utterly confused.


    Was Walter''s so-called important business really just to meet up with her at Avalon University?


    It did not make sense, but Walter did not sound like he was in the mood for arguments. Thus, to dodge any drama, Evangeline decided to head to the gate to wait.


    She thought about Alex, busy in the meeting room, and shot him a quick message to say she would bete because something came up.


    What really surprised her was that Alex texted back right away with a simple, [Got it.]


    Listening to the sh of wits in the meeting room, she realized that even the super-organized Alex could sneak in a quick text at work.


    He was pretty much excelling in every other aspect of life, though. Alex was just that kind of perfect.


    Walter and Evangeline had set a time to meet, but poor David, the assistant, was in a difficult situation.


    He had Walter''s whole day nned out, and they were almost at the office when Walter decided to change course. David could only sigh as he turned the car around, the office building so close yet suddenly out of reach.


    Evangeline spotted Walter''s Land Rover, which was supposed to be inconspicuous but stuck out like a sore thumb, parked near the entrance of Avalon University. Without a second thought, she swung the door open and hopped in. David, sensing he was a third wheel, had


    She pulled out apact mirror to fix her windblown hair and asked casually, "So, what''s the big emergency that you just had to see me about?" She was not buying that Walter had rushed over just for a quick chat.


    "Let''s start with you. What are you doing at Avalon University?" Walter knew


    +20 BONUS


    Evangeline was ying tough, the kind who would not admit defeat until she was backed into a corner, so he was waiting for her to spill the beans before he dropped the hammer.

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    Evangeline was not ying Walter''s game. "Walter, even if we don''t mention our divorce''s cooling-off period or even if we were still married, I still have the freedom to do what I want. So back off, okay?" She was beyond frustrated. She could not stand this version of Walter; everything about him just got under her skin. She had once loved him deeply, only to be met with his indifference. She was done pouring her heart out, yet he was all over her business. "Do you really think I want to meddle in your life? Alex has decided to work at Avalon University, and you''re here today to teach violin, right?"


    Her eyes darkened, and she snapped, "Walter, you''re the worst! Have you been spying on me?"


    Walterpletely ignored Evangeline''s fury, his voice a deep rumble of menace. "Evangeline, didn''t I tell you to keep your distance from Alex?


    "Alex starts working at Avalon University, and you''re all too eager to show up. What do you think that makes me look like? And what about the Gordon family''s good name?"


    Evangeline was baffled. "He knows I''m great with the violin. He wanted me toe and mentor some students. How does that involve you or the Gordon family?"


    "It involves me because you''re getting too cozy with Alex, my brother. I won''t stand for the rumors about you two giving me a bad name. It''s revolting!"


    The mere thought made Walter feel sicker than if he had swallowed a fly.


    "Look, I don''t care what you do, but forget about joining the music department at Avalon University. If you''re so set on teaching a few students, passing on your music, I''ll find you another ce." Evangeline''s violin solo at the birthday party had left everyone, including Walter, in awe.


    He had never expected that Evangeline, whom he had dismissed as a rough country girl, could not only appreciate music but also master such a challenging instrument. Walter''s eyes were unfocused as he was hit by a sudden memory of Evangeline''s adorable childhood face.


    Julia, with only her teacher''s guidance, had tirelessly devoted herself to the violin. Overlooked by everyone, she had no choice but to listen in secret, peering through door cracks. Evangeline, ever so resolute, had fallen in love with the violin. Once back with the Foster family, she finally got her chance to learn, and there was no way she would pass it up.


    He had to admit, he was not paying enough attention to miss something so obvious.


    Torn between guilt and admiration, he wholeheartedly hoped Evangeline would continue to share her exceptional talent in music. "Why should I stop just because you say so? Walter, mark my words, I will im that music professorship at Avalon University!" Evangeline not about to back down in front of Walter.


    was


    Their spat was cut short when her phone erupted with a ring.


    Wade''s voice pierced the tight confines of the car, frantic and urgent.


    "Ms. Evangeline, it''s terrible! Lydia tried to take her life at the police station! She''s lost so much blood. They''re rushing her to the hospital now. The doctors say she was brought in toote, had lost a lot of blood, and it doesn''t look good for her." The sh between Evangeline and Walter stopped dead. Walter did not wait for Evangeline to respond. He jumped into the driver''s seat, signaled to David, and floored it.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    They got to Avalon City General Hospital with the red light still ring outside the operating room. Lydia''s surgery was ongoing, her fate up in the

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    Atst, the operating room light went off. The medics wheeled Lydia out, straight to the ICU.


    The next 12 hours would tell if she would make it through withoutplications. If she did, she would be out of danger.


    With the prisoner''s life in jeopardy, the police on watch bore the weight of responsibility, standing vigil outside her room.


    After Walter got the information, he wasted no time telling David to strengthen the security around Lydia. There was no way they were going to let her slip away.


    Evangeline peered through the ICU''s observation window at Lydia, who was hooked up to a bunch of tubes and fighting for every breath. A storm of rage swirled in her eyes. Was this karmic retribution?


    It felt like just yesterday when her own mother, Yessica, was the one in the ICU, a tangle of tubes keeping her alive.


    Was it time for the bad guys to get a taste of the same medicine?This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Lydia finally had to live through agony worse than death-she was going to suffer a million times more than her mom ever did!


    Evangeline''s fingers traced Lydia''s face through the ss, her teeth clenched in fury..


    "Lydia, you better not die!"


    Walter had just ended his call with David when those words hit his ears.


    He nced over at Evangeline and saw her looking like she had been through the wringer.


    Her face was ghostly pale, but her eyes were fiery red, locked on Lydia in the ICU loathingly. Chapter 234


    In that instant, he got the picture.


    He suddenly saw Evangeline in a different light-she seemed so vulnerable.


    Despite her tough talk and the way she would butt heads with him, she was just a delicate soul who needed someone to watch over her.


    On impulse, Walter reached out and gently rested his hand on her slender shoulder.


    Evangeline spun, her eyes locking with Walter''s deep ones.


    He reassured her, "Leave Lydia to me."


    The hospital''s hallway was eerily silent, a kind of quiet where Evangeline could hear the thudding of her own heart.


    Thump-thump! Her heart raced, picking up speed.


    She wondered if it was because of Walter''s unexpected show of dependability and gentleness.


    Her lips parted, trying to speak, but the sound that emerged was as faint. and pitiful as a mosquito''s buzz.


    Walter had not caught her words the first time.


    He sensed Evangeline''s distress and leaned in close, his ear next to her pale lips, gently urging her, "Evangeline, say it again."


    "I said..." Her voice was raspy, her throat bobbing as she managed to ask, "Walter, can I trust you?"


    Julia had been Walter''s treasure, and Lydia was Julia''s own mother. How could he possibly act against Julia''s interests for Evangeline''s sake?


    Even so, the voice inside Evangeline''s head was crystal clear, ''Walter is trustworthy."


    She could not fathom her sudden shift in feelings. Just yesterday, Walter was nothing but a jerk in her eyes. How could she even consider trusting him?


    Maybe... It was because of the way he had just patted her shoulder, offering a moment of sce?


    What she did not realize was that her look of doubt was like a dagger, plunging deep into Walter''s heart.


    At this moment, Evangeline''s biggest dilemma was whether she could trust herself.


    Reflecting on his history with Julia, Walter finally understood.


    "Andrew and Julia''s sneaky dealings? I''ve dug up everything. And trust me, I won''t let them off easy-not for their sakes, but for mine. So yeah, we''re on the same team here. You''ve got nothing to worry about."

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    Walter rattled off his words at lightning speed.


    Evangeline heard him, but her mind just went nk trying to piece them all together.


    ''Whatever,'' she thought, ''I''ll just have to trust Walter.'' In her state, there was no way she could wrestle someone away from his clutches.


    She pushed down the whirlwind of emotions inside her. Before she could get a word out, Walter''s voice,ced with concern, reached her ears.


    "Head back and get some now. I''ll stay with Lydia. The second she''s safe, you''ll be the first to know."


    Just then, Wade, who had finished all the paperwork, came rushing in. He barely had a moment to feel relieved when he spotted Walter, that jerk, getting too close forfort. "Walter, back off!"


    Like a gust of wind, Wade was there, knocking Walter''s hand from Evangeline''s shoulder and pulling her to safety behind him.


    He had already shed with the Gordons over Evangeline, and Walter was no exception. No more ying nice..


    Wade red at Walter as heid down thew. "Keep away from Ms. Evangeline, thanks."


    In the past, Evangeline might have tossed her head defiantly at Walter and strutted off, safe in Wade''s guard.


    Walter had just tried to calm her down, his concern obviously genuine. If Evangeline kept doubting him, she would be the one doing wrong, repaying his kindness with suspicion. "Mr. Davis, you''ve got it all wrong." Evangeline nudged Wade, who stepped aside but kept his eyes locked on Walter, ready for anything sketchy.


    Walter towered over her, and Evangeline had to look up to meet his eyes. Despite their close history for such a long time, her heart still skipped a beat every time she saw him. "Walter, I''ll leave Lydia to you."


    She could not help but think of Julia, who had once showered Walter with affection, and added with a hint of worry, "I''m counting on you to be worthy of my trust this time." With Wade by her side, Evangeline walked out of the hospital, her emotions a tangled mess.


    She did not want to hand Lydia, the woman who had so much bad blood with her family, over to Walter. On the other hand, staying by Lydia''s side felt like a betrayal to her own mother.


    Torn, she had no choice but to leave when Walter offered to watch Lydia. Still, Evangeline could not shake off her doubts about him.


    On the drive home, she told Wade to arrange for some bodyguards to keep an eye on Lydia from a distance. It was a smart move that would not alert Walter and would prevent Lydia from slipping away.


    Troubled and fearing Lydia might die before justice was served, Evangeline tossed and turned all night. She finally drifted off at dawn, only to be jolted awake by a sudden noise.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Evangeline blinked her eyes open, her vision still a blur, and spotted the looming figures of her uncles.


    Uncle Holden, the one who always had something to say, was the first to notice she was awake. He elbowed his way past his brothers and zoomed to her bedside, his face etched with worry. "Evie, did you get a good night''s sleep? Feeling okay?" he asked. Meanwhile, Yale was already there with a breakfast tray that smelled amazing. Sandwiches, in oatmeal, and some light veggies. "You must be starving, huh? I wasn''t sure what


    you''d like, so I just grabbed a few things to tide you over. If it''s not what you want, I''ll get the kitchen to whip up

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    was


    still standing there, looking a bit lost, when Jack swooped in with a te of toast and milk, shoving Yale''s tray aside. "Bro, you''re out of touch. What kid wants to eat in oatmeal these days? They''re all about this toast and milkbo," boasted Jack with a smirk. At the back, Aemon and James were as quiet as statues, just watching to see which breakfast Evangeline would pick.


    Evangeline could not believe it. She had just woken up to find the Foster family in a silent showdown. Yale and Jack were in a breakfast battle, while Aemon and James seemed to be taking silent bets. Only Holden, the life of the party, was not picking sides. Instead, he was Faced with two totally different breakfast options, Evangeline suddenly propped herself up, ready to make her choice.


    This day just could not go on like this!


    Faced with two breakfasts, if Evangeline picked one, she would tick off the uncle who offered the other.


    If she rejected both, she would let down both uncles. It was a lose-lose situation.


    Her eyes darted between her uncles as a sly idea took root.


    The bottom line was that her uncles had too much time on their hands.


    Back when they were not hanging around the Foster family, they were each wrapped up in their own hustle, too busy to poke their noses into her business.


    With Foster Group''s affairs only needing them in the wings and Grandpa Cole in good health, their main job was just to check in on the old man in turns.


    Other than that, they were free as birds.


    People who were used to running around tended to get restless when they suddenly had downtime, and that was why she, their darling niece, had be their project. Evangeline shivered.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    She craved love, but the avnche of affection from her uncles was just too much to handle.


    Resting her cheek in her palm, her eyes roamed thoughtfully.


    Then, a spark of mischief in her gaze.


    Why should she be the one to carry the weight of expanding the Foster family tree? Her uncles were perfectly capable.


    That settled it-she would y Cupid and find them some love!


    Step one: She had to get her hands on a list of all the eligible bachelorettes


    in town.


    While she was mulling over where to find such a list, Yale and Jack sidled up to Evangeline, each bearing a te of food.


    "Evie, Yale and I worked really hard on this breakfast. You have to try at least a bite, okay?" coaxed Jack with a soft voice.


    Evangeline nced at the heaping tes of food and felt her sleep-deprived head start to throb. She had wanted to eat from both tes, but there was just so much food. How could she possibly finish it all?


    After getting ready for the day, Evangeline, under the hopeful looks of her two uncles, grabbed a sandwich from Yale''s te and a ss of milk from Jack''s. Bybining the two, she managed to please both uncles without leaving anyone out. However, as soon as she was done eating, her head began to spin. She remembered hearing that a full stomach could make her blood sugar rise and bring on sleepiness. She did not overthink it, chalking it up to just a normal body reaction. +26 BOMU


    In front of all five uncles, Evangeline let out a huge yawn and sheepishly said, "I guess I didn''t get much sleepst night. I''m so sleepy now." She pped her cheeks, trying to wake up. "No sleeping now, no sleeping-I''ve got to head out." Lydia was still in the hospital, and she should really get there early to see what was going on.

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    Chapter 207


    Then Aemon, who had been quiet, cut in "If you''re feeling sleepy, why not just take a good nap? No need to push yourself so hard."


    If there were a way to score someone''s way with words, Aemon would ace it. Even though he was basically telling Evangeline to just sleep, she could not get annoyed. Instead, she felt her uncle''s deep affection for her. The resolve she had to leave was slipping. "Maybe I''ll head out after I''ve had some sleep?" Another massive yawn escaped Evangeline, and her eyelids were fighting a losing battle to stay


    open.


    Holden zipped to her side in a sh. "Go sleep, go sleep. The Foster family''spany is swarming with folks. It won''t crumble if you skip a day, will it now? The most important thing is for you to get some rest." "Mm." Drowsiness swept over her, but Evangeline mustered her wits and squinted at Holden, "Uncle, you''re acting... sort of odd today."


    She could not quite put her finger on what was off. Was it because she did not catch enough shut-eyest night and she was thus very sleepy, so her brain was on the fritz?


    Grinning, Holden replied, "Me, strange? Nah, I''m just fussing over you, my dear niece. You''re the shining star of the whole Foster n!"


    Well, when he put it that way, it sort of made sense.


    Evangeline''s eyelids felt like they were made of lead, and even though she tried her hardest to stay alert, a single blink was all it took to sumb to sleep.


    Right before drifting off, one thought clung to her mind.


    No more all-nighters for her. She was just too wiped out...


    Evangeline was out like a light, and Holden, who was right by her, scooped up her delicate frame. With her four other uncles forming a protective. entourage, they gentlyid her on her bed.


    000


    Chapter


    125 BONUS


    James, who had kept silent, weaved through his brothers, checked Evangeline''s eyes to confirm she was sound asleep, and then spun to address the group, "Are we sure she won''t flip when she finds out what we did? "And hey, Holden, where''d you get that potion Evie gulped? It''s not going to mess with her health, is it?"


    Holden quickly tried to reassure everyone, "What could possibly go wrong? We''re just making sure she gets a good night''s rest. "Besides, it won''t take long for us five brothers to take care of that jerk Walter. How much medicine could I really give her?" James was at a loss for words.


    As a well-establishedwyer, he was acutely aware that their actions this time were definitely not on the right side of thew.


    As someone sworn to uphold thew, he could not help but feel guilty for silently going along with the n instead of urging everyone to stop before it was toote.


    Then again, the thought that they were doing all this to get back at Walter made him feel not an ounce of guilt. In fact, he thought this reckoning was long overdue! "Well, if that''s the case... Let''s get moving!"


    James flexed his fingers, cracking his knuckles without even noticing.


    Oh, Walter. He had been itching to give that guy a piece of his mind for a


    while!


    At Gordon Group headquarters, Walter sat on the office sofa, massaging his temples to ease the exhaustion he could not shake off.


    Lydia''s fate was uncertain, and she was also the main suspect in the murder of Evangeline''s mother.


    With such a critical role, Walter had no choice but to take things seriously.


    He had spent the entire night awake, standing vigil outside Lydia''s ICU room. Only after the doctor dered her out of critical condition did he return to thepany for a brief rest. N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 208

    Chapter 208


    Walter was always a workaholic, and pulling all-nighters was nothing new to


    him.


    However, life was full of unexpected twists, and he was even dealing with an injury.


    After pushing through another whole night when he should have been recovering, even his resilient body was feeling the strain.


    Faced with a mountain of paperwork, he feltpletely swamped and had zero motivation to tackle any of it.


    Walter was just about to catch his breath when his assistant David strode in worriedly. "Mr. Gordon, you''re looking pretty pale. Should we get you to the hospital for a check-up?"


    Walter had taken a bad hit, and after a whole night at the hospital with Evangeline, he was not even sure how his injuries were holding up.


    "No need," dismissed Walter with a hand gesture. He knew a trip back to the hospital wouldnd him in a bed for however long. Moreover, with all the time he had spenttely on Evangeline''s prenatal appointments and other stuff, he was already behind on work. He could not let a few bruises get in the way of his duties to the Gordon family.


    "I''m just a little worn out. A quick rest and I''ll be as good as new," Walter assured David. Then it hit him. "I didn''t call for you. What''s up? Something wrong?"


    David''s eyes flickered with concern, and it was like the word ''trouble'' was shing in neon lights in his gaze. "Mr. Walter Gordon, looks like your break will have to wait."


    Before David could finish, a ruckus erupted from the hallway outside the office. "We need to see Walter, now!" The voices were forceful, definitely not friendly. Walter got the message loud and clear. Tuning in to the voices, they rang a


    bell. He rifled through his memories of Evangeline''s birthday celebration andnded on a few faces-Evangeline''s uncles.


    It seemed this was all about family drama.


    Walter let out a heavy sigh. The men''s arrival spelled trouble, marking the start of no ordinary day.


    He gave David a look, a silent cue to let them in, but he stayed put on the couch, soaking up thest few seconds of calm before the inevitable chaos.


    He was not scared of the men showing up. It was just thebo of injuries and a night without sleep wearing him down.


    David, recognizing the importance of the guests, was all nods and bows as he weed them inside.


    "Gentlemen, would you prefer tea or coffee? I''ll go make it for everyone."


    Yale, the one in charge, gave a dismissive wave of his hand.


    Holden caught on quickly and turned to David, "Don''t bother, we''re not here for a tea party."


    His face was all business, giving off some serious do not-mess-with-me vibes. "You''re off the hook now. Go on, scram."


    David shot a worried nce at his boss, wondering if it was safe to leave his


    boss alone.


    Walter inhaled deeply and gave David a small wave.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    As soon as the men took their stand in the room, he knew today''s problem was not going away. No running from this one, might as well face the music.


    However, with Evangeline''s uncles being a bunch of towering giants, and all five cramming into his usually spacious office, the ce suddenly felt like a closet, and he felt a little small.


    The office door clicked shut, and the five men picked spots and plopped down like they owned the ce.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 209

    Chapter 209


    Walter, standing dead center, was a little nervous. Five towering men were eyeing him like prey, and they were all family elders to boot. That was enough to make anyone''s heart race. Holden stood as the chosen voice of the five brothers, his gaze on Walter heavy with unspoken fury. There was no room for small talk; he cut straight to the chase.


    "Walter, we didn''te here to make a fuss. We just want to know one thing: When are you going to let Evie go and sign those divorce papers?"


    Evangeline''s marriage to Walter had been nothing but hardship, and her uncles had watched her suffer.


    They were determined, before even stepping foot here, to free Evangeline from this toxic tie to Walter and then help her find happiness again.


    Walter was floored by Holden''s blunt question.


    He had been so focused on getting Evangeline to have his kids, a divorce was thest thing on his mind. However, Holden''s question made it sound like it was already a sure thing.


    "Could there be some kind of mix-up?" Walter asked, trying to keep his cool. He knew better than to snap at Evangeline''s family. "Just the other day, Evangeline and I were getting ready for a pre- pregnancy checkup. We''re about to start our own family. Why would we divorce now?"


    He did not get to finish. Aemon, who had been quiet until now, cut in. "Don''t think you can pull a fast one, getting our dad to pressure Evie into having kids with you, and think that''s the end of it. I''mying it out for you-he might want Evie to have your child, but we? We, her uncles, are not on board with that n at all."N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Walter''s eyes darted between the uncles, realizing the gravity


    situation.


    of the


    Yale''s face was a mask of seriousness. Without a word, his pale, tense


    1.2


    expression spoke volumes.


    Jack''s eyebrows knitted together in a frown, his eyes zing with fury as he stared at Walter.


    Holden and Aemon had made their feelings abundantly clear, too.


    That left only James.


    When Walter''s gazended on him, James rose to his feet, his stance unmistakable. "Mr. Walter Gordon, have you forgotten? I''m thewyer handling your divorce from Evie. That fact alone should tell you where I stand, shouldn''t it?" It was true; James had always been against Evangeline and him being together.


    Walter''s gaze was deep, a silent ache in his heart as he held back his emotions.


    James just had to twist the knife.


    "We brothers are united on this. You''ve broken Evie''s heart, so just get the divorce and stay out of her life for good!


    "Your family''s loaded, and you''re never short on femalepany. But Evie, she''s got only so much time to enjoy her youth, so the sooner you set her free, the better!"


    The office plunged into a hush.


    The Foster brothers hadid it all out, and it was Walter''s turn to respond.


    Walter just looked down, his lips sealed shut.


    Yale, once a hothead now tempered by politics, could not contain himself any longer.


    He mmed his hand on the table. "Walter, are you even a man? Can''t you just give us a straight answer about the divorce? All this dithering-it''s not what a real man does. How could Evie ever have fallen for..."

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    Chapter 210


    "I won''t do it!" Walter''s eyes were tinged with red, but his voice was resolute.


    "Why won''t you let go? You don''t even like Evie, and now you''re just holding her back from finding happiness?"


    Holden''s blood boiled at the thought of this guy messing with his beloved niece''s future.


    When the men grilled him, Walter was bursting with things to say but could not find the words.


    He truly adored Evangeline; he dreamed of growing old with her. However, Evangeline''s heart belonged to Alex, leaving Walter''s love with nowhere to


    1. go.


    If he spilled his true feelings and they reached Evangeline, he would lose thest shred of pride he had.-


    No way he could admit that, not even if his life depended on it!


    Walter hardened his resolve and looked away. "I just won''t do it, okay? Get over it. There''s no way I''ll agree to a divorce from Evangeline!"


    His voice was firm, but it only fueled Evangeline''s uncles'' anger.


    That little jerk! Messing up his own life was one thing, but dragging Evie down with him? That was on him.


    Out of nowhere, Holden''s hand shot out, grabbing Walter by the cor.


    "You stubborn kid, you won''t budge, will you?"


    Walter, who had never been manhandled like this, was livid. However, he remembered this was Evangeline''s uncle, and just like that, his anger fizzled out.


    He wanted a life with Evangeline, so how could he ever stand up to her uncles?


    "I won''t do it." Walter''s answer came out even stronger than before.


    1/


    Before Walter could even blink, the door burst open and a fist came flying at him. His left eye exploded in pain, and all he saw was the fading shadow of that punch, with Holden''s triumphant grin etched into his vision. "Try me, kid. Say it one more time, do you want this divorce or not?"


    Walter defiantly turned his head away. "No way. I''d rather take a beating than agree to that!"


    "Oh, we''ll see about that..."


    Holden was practically rubbing his hands with glee. "It''s been ages since I''ve thrown a punch. This''ll be a great chance to get back in the swing of things!"This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    When it was an uncle versus his nephew-inw, all Walter could do was prepare for the worst.


    Facing all five uncles at once, he was not sure he would even make it to see tomorrow''s sunrise.


    Determined not to make Evangeline a widow, he held up a hand to call for a timeout.


    "It''s not fair for you to just wail on me. I''m not standing for it!"


    Holden''s grip on Walter''s cor tightened, and he could not help but chuckle at Walter''s attempt to negotiate. "Not standing for it, huh? Tell me, what''s your beef?"


    "If you hit me and I can''t hit back, that''s what I''m not standing for!"


    Walter stood his ground, his neck stiff with resolve. "If you''re so set on beating some sense into me, Uncle, it can''t be a one-sided fight!"


    James, the ever-fair mediator, stepped forward.


    "Alright, how about this? A fair one-on-one fight. Walter, if you lose, you sign those divorce papers on the spot, and none of us brothers will ever bug you about Evie again."


    0


    Walter promised with all his heart, "Deal!"


    Holden lit up at the challenge. "That''s the spirit, kid!"


    Yale, who had seen his fair share of action as a special forces soldier, stepped in front of Holden, ready to intervene.


    "Holden, you''re not exactly a gym rat. Let me handle this and wrap it up quickly!"


    Holden was too stubborn to listen

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    Chapter


    211


    Yale knew better than to push it. He backed off a bit, and the others gave them room, clearing a space for the showdown. In the wide-open office, Walter and Holden faced off, each ready to rumble. Walter eyed Holden''s amateurish fighting stance and decided to throw him a warning. "Heads up, Uncle, I''ming in."


    Holden sneered at Walter, full of himself, "Bring it on. Scared? Not a chance. For Evie''s sake, I''m all in!"


    Before he could finish his tough talk, a blur zipped toward him. Next thing he knew, his shoulder was throbbing, "Ah!" Holden yelped. By the time he snapped out of it, Walter had his arms twisted behind him. Walter''s voice was low in his ear, "You''re done, Uncle." He let go of Holden''s


    arms.


    "Cheap shot!" Holden was fuming, rolling up his sleeves, "I''m not buying it. Let''s go again. If I lose, then I''ll give you props!" He was ready to dive back in, but Walter just shook his head. "We said one-on-one, one shot only. You''re not going to chicken out, are you?"


    That hit Holden hard.


    Holden was right in the middle of the family pecking order, with older siblings to look up to and younger ones to watch over. He was a sweetheart who could not help but ramble on, so when he cked off at times, everyone cut him some ck and did not make a big deal out of it.


    "When have I ever chickened out?" Holden''s bluster had fizzled out quite a bit.


    In the game of life, tricks and bluffs were part of the ybook, and he realized he had been outyed by Walter.


    He had underestimated his opponent, letting Walter sneak through his defenses with a single, decisive move.


    Did one slip-up mean he had to gamble away Evangeline''s lifelong


    happiness, though?


    That just was not fair!


    What he did not realize was that his shifty eyes had spilled the beans about his thoughts.


    Walter chimed in at the perfect moment "Look, I may not be the poster child for respect, but duking it out with an uncle? Once is enough for me. I''m not about to throw down with you. But hey, if any other men are itching for a bout, I''m game." He sounded all high and mighty.


    Deep down, though, he figured he had already put Holden in his ce with one slick move, and the rest of the Foster n would be wise enough not to pick a fight or stir up any divorce talk.


    It seemed he had yed down just how fiercely the Fosters stuck up for their own.


    The moment Walter''s words hit the air, Aemon, who had been stewing in his own rage, could not hold back any longer. He charged forward and shoved Holden out of the fray.


    "I''ve been telling you to hit the gym, but did you listen? Now you see you''re not cut out for this, huh?"


    He waved Walter over with a crooked finger, then balled his hands into fists, ready to rumble. "Walter, you and me, let''s go!"


    "Bring it on!"


    They traded blows, but it all came to a crashing halt with Walter''s slick shoulder throw.


    Just for the record, it was Walter''s move that sent the mighty Aemon tumbling to the ground.


    As he tumbled to the ground, he made sure to pull his punches. Otherwise, Aemon would have ended up with a couple of cracked ribs. Chapter 211


    The second brawl was another bust.


    The Foster brothers were practically in a rage.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "How is that punk Walter so good at scrapping? Boss, you think you can take him down?"


    Today''s Bonus Of

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 212

    Chapter 212


    Yale had seen his fair share of rough-and-tumble in the special forces. Heck, he had even hauled around heavy artillery. Dealing with Walter, that punk, should have been a walk in the park, right?


    As it turned out, Yale had been through the wringer in the military, sure, but his years in politics had pretty much made him hand back all those fighting moves to his drill sergeant..


    When the dust settled, Walter was like one man against an army, and heid out all five of the Foster brothers.


    Staring down the oue, the Foster brothers were anything but happy about it. However, they had made their bet, and it was clear they were outssed. They did not have a leg to stand on if they wanted to keep pushing for the divorce. Once Walter saw his uncles-inw had cooled their jets, he turned on the charm.


    "Guys, I know you''re all here for Evangeline. But you''ve seen it yourself, I wasn''t looking for a fight today. Let''s call it a day and head on home, alright?"


    Truth be told, after the Foster brothers got served, there was not much left for them to do but beat a hasty retreat.


    They had not sorted out their big issue, yet they had to slink back after hitting a wall with Walter. How were they going to face Evangeline?


    James was dead set on shielding his niece, and at this point, he was not worried about saving face. "You''ve got toe clean about what''s going on with you and Evie today! We''re not going anywhere until you do! Look, Evie''s got the Foster family stuff to deal with, and us He gave a pointed look at the stacks of paperwork crowding the office desk. "Without you, Gordon Group would crumble in less than a week, wouldn''t it?"


    There was no denying it-James had a knack for seeing things clearly, and


    17


    Chyle (17


    he was spot-on.


    "If you are demanding an exnation, then an exnation you shall have."


    Walter inhaled deeply, his tone grave as he said, "Evangeline is my woman, through and through. Even if we were to divorce, no other guy would darey a finger on her. Given the clout and standing of the Gordon family these days, you all would agree with that, wouldn''t y The Foster brothers were fuming, their faces flushed with anger.


    Walter had hit the nail on the head.


    Even if Evangeline was the cherished little princess of the Foster family, wrapped in her aura of privilege. The mere mention of her being Walter''s ex-wife was enough to send men from both the north and south running scared.


    After all, the Gordons ruled the South and the Fosters the North, and the only ones brave enough to stand up to the Gordon family were Evangeline''s own kin!


    Still...


    "Stop spouting nonsense. Who says Evie has to scour every corner of our country for a guy? Why not look abroad? Guys overseas are hot, loaded, and oh-so-sweet and thoughtful..."


    Holden clenched his teeth, trying to w back some logic for Evangeline, but he had not expected aeback.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "With most of the Gordon family shares in her grip, Evangeline will always be part of the Gordon family, and she''s bound to stay that way!"


    The office was thick with tension, and outside, David was pacing, a bundle


    of nerves.


    Caught in the middle of Walter''s feud with his uncle, David, just an assistant, had no say. Even so, he could not just stand by and watch his boss get bulldozed by those five towering goons, could he? Then, like a lightbulb moment, he whipped out his phone and punched in a


    number.


    Evangeline, deep in dreand, was jolted awake by the insistent ring of her phone.


    "Hello, Evangeline speaking."


    She had picked up this official-sounding tone since she had be a key yer in the Foster family business.

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    Chapter 213


    With Evangeline''s rise to power came more people to manage and more. people to depend on her. She used her practiced tone to deflect any risk from unknown callers.


    However, she was clueless that David''s voice,ced with urgency, woulde through the other end. "Mrs. Gordon, you need to get over to Gordon Group, like, now. All five uncles are here, and they''ve got Mr. Walter Gordon cornered in his office. I don''t know what''s going down, but it''s super intense, and I''m freaking out about the boss."


    David''s words came out with a quiver, as if he was on the verge of tears.


    Evangeline''s brow instantly creased with worry. What on earth were her uncles up to at the Gordon Group building?


    The tone of David''s voice spelled trouble, and nothing good at that.


    With no time to waste, Evangeline jumped into her car and sped off to Gordon Group.


    Little did she know, in Walter''s office at that very moment, the Foster brothers were seething with anger, unable to contain their fury at Walter''s audaciousments.


    "This guy''s too polite for his own good. Guys, let''s teach him a lesson!"


    Led by Holden, the other four raised their fists, ready to rearrange Walter''s infuriatingly handsome face.


    Walter tried to brace for impact, but his ears picked up the sound of frantic footsteps in the hallway.


    The steps were erratic, rushing straight toward his office.


    David was always on guard; he would not let just anyone hang around outside.


    So the woman in heels could only be one person-Evangeline!


    Walter''s mind raced, and he made a split-second decision to risk it all.


    He was betting that the woman about to burst through the door was Evangeline, there to save the day.


    If he was wrong, well, he would just have to take a beating from the five brothers and then lick his wounds. Five brothers, 10 fists, they came at Walter from all sides.


    The throbbing pain pulled at the injury in his lower abdomen, forcing a pained shout from his lips.


    Suddenly, a loud crash echoed from the doorway.


    Evangeline marched in, her white high heels clicking against the floor with each determined step. She barely had time to catch her breath when she spotted Walter, looking like he had gone a few rounds with a boxing bag, his eyes swollen and dark. "Are you guys fighting?" she gasped in disbelief. Her uncles, ambitious and usually so level-headed, were brawling in the office over her?


    If she and Walter ever split, the Gordons and the Fosters would be full-on archenemies. Even so, what good would this showdown do for the Fosters? She was sure her uncles had a better grasp on the situation than she did. With a heavy heart, she could only sigh. Family ties have a way of fogging up the clearest minds, leading to some rather crazy actions..N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    She yanked Holden back from throwing another punch and nted herself in front of Walter, her slight frame standing tall. "Enough! What''s the point of hitting him?"


    Walter did not return her feelings, and no matter how much she tried, she could not make him see her heart. That was just the hand she had been. dealt, and she wasing to terms with it. However, she had not noticed how much this hurt her uncles, who had doted on her since she was a little. girl. Never had they let her feel so slighted.


    It clicked for Evangeline. They must have thought Walter was the worst for not cherishing her love. They hade here to stand up for her!

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 214

    hapter 214


    +26 BONUS


    There was Walter, his eyes red and swollen, looking like he should be under ss in a museum. He kept his head down, stealing a cautious look at Evangeline, silent as the night.


    The Foster brothers were fuming, their anger simmering with no ce to go.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter, the rascal, was putting on quite the performance right in front of Evangeline! He acted like he was the victim, while they, the older rtives, were the mean bullies taking whatever they wanted by force! "Evie, don''t even look at him. He''s just faking it, I swear..."


    Evangeline grabbed Walter by the sleeve and yanked him in front of her, pointing at his ck-and-blue eyes. "Isn''t it obvious? Holden, got anything. else to add?"


    Yale, the eldest among them, realized that Walter''s little stunt had them all looking like the bad guys. He was so mad that he could bite a nail in half, but he knew he had to clear things up to avoid any more misunderstandings. "Evie, you''ve got it all wrong..."


    "There''s nothing to get wrong."


    Actually, whether it was a misunderstanding did not even matter anymore.


    Evangeline took a deep breath and faced her five uncles. "Uncles, I know! you''re just looking out for me, and that''s why you showed up at Gordon. Group ready to rumble. But here''s the thing-


    whether I tie the knot with Walter or cut him loose, it''s our call, not yours. No matter how much you care, all you can do is watch and let me choose for myself.


    "So, can you please stop fretting over me and Walter?"


    By the end, Evangeline was practically begging.


    She was genuinely distressed.


    On one hand, Walter had taken a beating, and on the other, she did not even


    hate him. Nheless, her uncles had tarnished their reputations just to defend her honor.


    She just could not stand it.


    The Foster family''s five uncles, who were usuallyrger than life and never at a loss for words, found themselves speechless under Evangeline''s piercing stare. They looked like kids who had been caught red-handed, anxiously awaiting their punishment. The office was wrapped in silence.


    Once Evangeline saw her uncles'' faces rx and was sure they had calmed down, she turned to Walter and said, "This whole thing today was just a big joke, and it''s time to put it to rest. Walter, I''m going toy it out straight.


    "If you even think about hurting my uncles, you''ll have me to answer to, and I won''t let it go easily!"


    Walter''s eyes darkened, and he hung his head in silence, not uttering another word.


    The Foster brothers, sensing the fun was over, filed out of the office one by


    one.


    Holden, who was about to step out, noticed Evangeline had not moved an inch and seemed to have no ns to leave. He stormed back, grabbed her arm, and said, "Evie, you''reing with us. Tomorrow, we''ll set you up on a blind date! Guys out there are a dime a doze "Okay," Evangeline agreed readily.


    She understood her uncles'' protective instincts. If she refused, they would not leave, and this whole drama would just drag on.


    The Fosters had arrived in force and left just as decisively.


    "You agreed?" repeated Holden, his voice filled with surprise, and the mood instantly lightened.


    "Go on, what''s your type? Any guy dreaming of being my niece''s other half


    has got to have the looks to match. Walter? The guy''s a total mismatch for my niece''s goddess-like beauty..."

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    Chapter 215


    Holden strolled out, cracking jokes as he tugged Evangeline along.


    The once bustling office fell eerily silent, so devoid of life that Walter felt utterly alone.


    Slumped in his chair at the desk, Walter reached for a file on instinct, but he moved too fast, and a sharp jab of pain shot through his injured abdomen.


    his on


    The pain forced a hiss from his lips, but he tried to ignore it.


    In the scuffle with Evangeline''s uncles, he had relied on finesse over brute strength, aiming to take them down with a single move. Of course, even the slickest moves require some effort, and t was no surprise that he had aggravated his injury. Despite the throbbing pain, and the very real possibility that the wound might reopen and bleed, he stubbornly refused to dwell on it.


    The image of Evangeline, not hesitating for a second to agree to that blind date, kept reying in his head, causing a different kind of ache, one that seemed topete with the physical pain.


    He could not tell which hurt more, his heart or his wound.


    With a pale, strained smile, Walter flipped open the file and dove into his work.


    Evangeline, back with the Fosters and her uncles, could not shake a feeling of unease.


    Walter had gotten hurt saving her, and her uncles gave him a hard time. Everything he was going through was because of her, and the thought of just leaving him to deal with it alone was more than she could stand.


    It hit her then-fighting could easily make his injury worse. The paleness of Walter''s face when she left... It was likely a sign that he had indeed made it


    worse.


    No, this would not do. Evangeline needed to make a call, and fast.


    However, after three tries, all she got was that annoying voicemail tone.


    Where on earth could Walter be? She hoped nothing bad had happened to


    him.


    Trying to keep her cool, Evangeline remembered the call she had gotten. from David earlier that day. She hit redial, and this time, David picked up almost immediately. "Yes? How can I help you?"


    Evangeline and David did not usually chat on the phone. Her role as a key decision-maker in the Foster family made it rare.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    For Evangeline to call him out of the blue... Well, that was a first.


    "Ahem!" She cleared her throat, feeling a wave of embarrassment about


    what she was about to ask.


    "Do you have any idea where Walter might be? I''ve been trying to reach him, and he''s not answering."


    David could hardly contain his excitement. He was practically holding his


    breath.


    Holy smokes, was he hearing this right? At 9 p.m., a time ripe with possibilities, she was looking for his boss?


    This was like a golden opportunitynding right in hisp!


    His mind raced with thoughts. If they met tonight and things went a certain way, maybe they would not need to get a divorce after all.


    Walter had been on edge for ages over the divorce, turning his office into ground zero for drama. No one dared to go in unless it was absolutely necessary. David was just the assistant, caught in the crossfire every single day. Could this mean the end of those dark days was in sight?


    +26 BONUS


    David quickly gathered his thoughts about Walter and blurted, "Mr. Walter Gordon is still burning the midnight oil at the office, and I''m about to step out for somete-night grub. Do you want to join?"


    "If you swing by, I''ll grab the snacks and clock out early,'' thought David.


    Evangeline had a soft spot. If heid it on too thick and scared her off, that would be on him.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 216

    Chapter 216


    Evangeline checked the time on her phone and frowned.


    It was way pastte, and Walter was still grinding away at work. Did he forget he was nursing an injury?


    "How''s Walter''s injury doing?"


    They were on the brink of divorce, so whether Walter was kicking or not should not matter to her. However, his injury was no ordinary scrape, and if she did not at least pretend to care, it felt sort of apathetic. What she did not realize was that her words just jogged David''s memory.


    The boss ying knight in shining armor for Evangeline? That had to up the odds of a reconciliation, right?


    With that, he started to spice up the tale, mixing a bit of truth with a healthyN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    dose of fiction.


    "He ignored the doctor''s orders and checked himself out of the hospital. He spent the whole night by a patient''s bedside, no rest for the weary.


    "And talk about timing, today the big shots showed up and raised hell. I''m not sure about how the boss is holding up, because he''s tight- lipped. But ever since the suits left, he''s been looking like a ghost. Maybe he''s hurt worse than he lets on, toughing it out for the job''s sake!" ''So, Evangeline, better hurry and give him some love."


    Bluffing was not David''s style, but after years at Walter''s side, he knew just how to y it.


    Woven a tale that was


    He had craftily more fiction than fact, glossing over the gritty details and painting a picture of Walter''s sorry state.


    Evangeline''s heart skipped a beat when she heard about Walter''s ghostly pale face. Panic set in before she could even wonder if David was spinning tales.


    "Why on earth aren''t you getting him to a hospital? As his assistant, how can you let him stay and pull an all-nighter at work?"


    David, as Walter''s right-hand man, was supposed to sweat the small stuff. That was his job.


    "I tried to tell him, like, a million times, but the boss just won''t listen!" David worriedly said, "The boss is super cranky. I could tell, and I didn''t want to make it worse."


    He was not lying.


    David was just a guy trying to make a living. If he ticked off the big man, he would be the one hitting the road.


    "Mrs. Gordon, you really shoulde check on him. I mean no disrespect, but... Well, our boss got hurt saving you. If anything happens to him because of that injury, you''d feel awful, right? Even if you were divorced." Evangeline did not react much at first.


    The bit about Walter getting hurt for her sake... She had been guilt-tripped before, but David''s words struck a nerve this time.


    She hung up and, without a second thought about thete hour, bolted from the Foster estate.


    At the Gordon Group headquarters, in the president''s office, David set down. a bowl of in oatmeal next to Walter''s desk worriedly.


    Walter''s stomach was growling, and the warm,forting smell of oatmeal was calling out to him, making him wonder who had brought it in.


    "David, you look all fidgety. Is it something important?"


    To everyone else, Walter was the picture of dedication at work, burning the midnight oil withoutint. Deep down, he was a mess, all because Evangeline had left. He had tried to bury himself in paperwork, but nothing. could hold his attention. He was already on edge, and his assistant was adding to his stress.


    ""Yeah, it''s important."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 217

    Chapter 217


    David answered with a quick nod, looking like he was trying to be on his best behavior.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Internally, David was freaking out.


    Evangeline was due to arrive any minute, and there he would be, sticking out. like a sore thumb. He would be the ultimate third wheel.


    However, if he tipped off Walter about her visit too soon and made himself scarce, it would spoil the surprise.


    Figuring out how to sneak out of the office without Walter catching on, to give the two some privacy, was turning into quite the challenge.


    "Is it super urgent?" Walter eyed David with suspicion.


    Something was definitely up. David was acting way too strange. Normally, David would spill the beans without being prompted, but at this moment, he was tight-lipped. Did David have some awkward, secretive ns for tonight?


    For a bachelor with a cushy job, there could only be one thing that was too embarrassing to mention: David had fallen in love!


    Oblivious to his boss'' wild theories, David simply nodded. "It''s an emergency!


    He checked the clock and realized he needed to bolt or risk getting caught by Evangeline at the door.


    Walter''s gut feeling was spot on. He inhaled deeply, a cocktail of emotions swirling inside him.


    His own life was a mess, yet here was his assistant, on the brink of something awesome.


    He thought, ''The guy is human and works like a dog all day. Who am I to block his shot at happiness?''


    "Get moving. And hey, if the stars align, bring her by so I can say hi."


    He had been with Walter for ages. It was only right to meet the woman who had stolen his assistant''s heart, even if ying gatekeeper was not exactly his role.


    David felt like he had just gotten a get-out-of-jail-free card, zooming out of the office without a backward nce.


    The click of the door shutting jolted him


    Hold on.


    Had he heard that right? Bring who to meet the boss?


    Staring at the closed office door, David squashed the urge to go back for answers and bolted.


    It was not that he was chicken; it was just that the rapid-fire footsteps in the hall were too darn loud. He did not even risk a peek at who it was or head for the elevator. He just veered off and took the stairs! Evangeline was practically sprinting down the hall, her memory guiding her to Walter''s office door, eyes darting around.


    She remembered David mentioning ate-night snack run, but the hallway was deserted, the office silent.


    Had David note back yet?


    Evangeline let out a resigned sigh.


    Bringing a little warmth to Walter, her almost-ex, was awkward enoughte at night. She had hoped David''s presence would make it less so, but he was nowhere in sight.


    Evangeline could not stand still; she stomped in irritation.


    David was taking forever! She had been at thepany for over an hour since leaving the Foster family''s ce, and it was already past nine. He should have had plenty of time to order whatever he thought suitable at this Chapter 217


    point!


    Little did Evangeline know that on the other side of the door, Walter had silently risen to his feet, eavesdropping on themotion outside.


    The click-ck of high heels on the floor immediately grabbed his attention, and he could clearly hear Evangeline''s frustrated stomping.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 218

    Chapter 218


    At that moment, Walter could only think to himself that ''what goes aroundes around''.


    He had generously let David off to chase after love, and here he was, receiving a surprise visit from Evangeline in the dead of night!


    Concealing the thrill and delight in his eyes, Walter kept a poker face as he swung the office door open, feigning shock as he asked, "Evangeline, to what do I owe the pleasure?"


    Evangeline, who had been on high alert for any glimpse of David in the hallway, was totally blindsided by the turn of events from behind her.


    Caught in Walter''s frosty stare, the words she had rehearsed just froze on her lips.


    "Uh... David isn''t here?"


    The moment the words left her mouth, Evangeline mentally kicked herself.


    Even if she was nervously tapping her foot, she should not have blurted her question to Walter''s assistant. She came to Walter''s office, but asking for his assistant was like she was openly admitting she had a secret to spill. Walter''s gaze sharpened, and he said in a measured tone, "David? He''s on leave."


    "What? David''s on leave?"


    Evangeline gasped in shock, babbling the question that had taken her by surprise, "Why is he taking time off?"


    He had just told her that Walter was still at the hospital, working overtime because of an injury, and had sent him out to grab somete-night snacks. All that, and after they had made ns for her visit, that guy had bailed? Walter sighed, trying to sound casual, "Well, from what I''ve heard, he''s... On a journey to find love."


    That meant David was noting back tonight. Evangeline felt her heart sink. But... But...


    "Wasn''t he supposed to gette-night snacks...?" She tried to hold on to hope.


    Walter shifted slightly, showing her thete-night snacksid out on the office desk. "David''s a pro, He made sure to get the snacks before he took. off." The way Walter said it, Evangeline could not tell if he wasplimenting David or making a sly dig. She could not help but pull a face. How convenient that just as she showed up, he was off chasing love? Maybe that guy had just made up an excuse to duck out and give her and Walter some alone time!


    Walter did not give Evangeline much time to dwell on it. He leaned against. the door with a hint of impatience. "Evangeline, are we really going to stand here at the door and chat?"


    Evangeline shook her head, but as she looked at the empty office with only Walter there, she felt a sudden rush of anxiety. Seeing that Evangeline was hesitating, Walter''s patience wore thin. "Do what you want, I''m going to eat.


    He turned back to his desk, picked up some snacks, and started to eat.


    Evangeline recalled why she hade and, with a deep breath, stepped inside.


    She spotted Walter holding the snacks, and a wave of something she could not quite name washed over her. It was not exactly pity, but she could not think of a better word.


    "Is that all you''re having?"


    Walter finished his mouthful of oatmeal and looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "What else should I be eating? Sick people shouldn''t have greasy food, you know that, right?" "Yeah, I know."


    After all, Evangeline had cared for Cole for quite some time and knew a thing


    or two about nursing someone back to health.


    However, the snacks on Walter''s table were in, just some oatmeal bars.


    "Maybe David''s being a little overprotective? You''re healing up; you need more than just in oatmeal."


    She caught herself quickly, though.


    Guys just were not wired for caregiving, and David had been running himself ragged looking after Walter. "Speaking of which, did you get hurt in today''s scuffle with my uncles?"


    Chapter 219.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 219

    Chapter 219


    Walter was already nursing an injury, and with Evangeline''s five burly uncles against him, it was clear he was the underdog.


    "No."


    While talking, Walter had nearly finished his snacks. He set his hand down a bit too forcefully and winced as the motion aggravated his wound.


    The sharp pain from the cut caught him off guard, and he clenched his teeth to stop any sound from escaping. His face went white, and a sheen of sweat appeared on his forehead. Evangeline noticed the subtle shift in his demeanor and moved closer with concern.


    "Walter, are you okay?"


    "It''s nothing."


    Evangeline pushed aside the arm Walter had put up like a barrier, his voice. icy as he tried to show her the door.


    "David''s not around. Got anything else? If not, beat it-I''ve got work to do."


    Before, Evangeline would have walked away without a word. With Walter''s stubborn act, there was no way she could just leave him like this.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "Not resting with an injury? What''s the big idea?" Her temper red, and her words came out sharp.


    Walter shot her a sidelong nce, his lips thin and tight. "Evangeline, since when is my business any of your concern?"


    "We''re not officially divorced yet, so yeah, it is my concern!"


    Walter was taken aback. That line, one he had used so often, was thrown


    back at him by Evangeline.


    In a swift move, Evangeline grabbed his arm and yanked him over to the couch by the window. She could not just watch him suffer, not when he was


    hurt because of her.


    Without giving him a chance to protest, she reached for his shirt.


    Walter jerked back instinctively. "What the heck?"


    "What do you think? I need to check out that wound!"


    Evangeline was livid.


    She could not believe how someone could be so careless about their own. well-being! He was clearly hurt, yet there he was, ying the tough guy and trying to work. Driven by her anger, Evangeline moved quickly.


    Before Walter could react, she saw the wound on his lower abdomen.


    It was wrapped in thick bandages, and though they should have hidden the damage, she could see the dark red stains of blood seeping through.


    "You''re bleeding. Don''t you feel pain at all? Why haven''t you seen a doctor? Where''s the first aid kit? You''ve got one in your office, right, Walter?"


    Walter gave a quick nod. "Drawer by the bed in the break room."


    Evangeline huffed and red at him in annoyance, but her feet betrayed her, speeding up despite herself.


    The office was usually so still and quiet, but the click-ck of Evangeline''s heels on the floor seemed to warm the ce up, sending that warmth right into Walter''s heart.


    He watched her, this tiny whirlwind of a person, bustling in front of him, and felt an unexpected glow of affection.


    Hearts were soft things, after all, and Evangeline''s was no exception.


    Twists and turns aside, injuries or not, her concern was all for him in the end.


    Evangeline grabbed the kit and peeled off the old gauze from his wound, frowning at the dried blood. "Lucky it''s not too bad. I should just leave you be! You never watch out for yourself!"


    Her focus was all on Walter as she crouched down, gently dabbing lodine on a cotton swab to treat his wound.


    What she missed was the look on Walter''s face from above. Those usually icy eyes were shining like never before, and there was even a hint of a smile. on his lips. They were just like any other couple, no?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 220

    Walter was already nursing an injury, and with Evangeline''s five burly uncles against him, it was clear he was the underdog.


    "No."


    While talking, Walter had nearly finished his snacks. He set his hand down a bit too forcefully and winced as the motion aggravated his wound.


    The sharp pain from the cut caught him off guard, and he clenched his teeth to stop any sound from escaping. His face went white, and a sheen of sweat appeared on his forehead.


    Evangeline noticed the subtle shift in his demeanor and moved closer with


    concern.


    "Walter, are you okay?"


    "It''s nothing."


    Evangeline pushed aside the arm Walter had put up like a barrier, his voice icy as he tried to show her the door.


    "David''s not around. Got anything else? If not, beat it-I''ve got work to do." Before, Evangeline would have walked away without a word. With Walter''s stubborn act, there was no way she could just leave him like this. "Not resting with an injury? What''s the big idea?" Her temper red, and her words came out sharp.


    Walter shot her a sidelong nce, his lips thin and tight. "Evangeline, since when is my business any of your concern?"


    "We''re not officially divorced yet, so yeah, it is my concern!"


    Walter was taken aback. That line, one he had used so often, was thrown back at him by Evangeline.


    In a swift move. Evangeline grabbed his arm and yanked him over to the


    hurt because of her.


    Without giving him a chance to protest, she reached for his shirt.


    Walter jerked back instinctively. "What the heck?"


    "What do you think? I need to check out that wound!"


    Evangeline was livid.


    She could not believe how someone could be so careless about their own well-being! He was clearly hurt, yet there he was, ying the tough guy and trying to work. Driven by her anger, Evangeline moved quickly.


    Before Walter could react, she saw the wound on his lower abdomen.


    It was wrapped in thick bandages, and though they should have hidden the damage, she could see the dark red stains of blood seeping through.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "You''re bleeding. Don''t you feel pain at all? Why haven''t you seen a doctor? Where''s the first aid kit? You''ve got one in your office, right, Walter?" gave


    Walter a quick nod. "Drawer by the bed in the break room."


    Evangeline huffed and red at him in annoyance, but her feet betrayed her, speeding up despite herself.


    The office was usually so still and quiet, but the click-ck of Evangeline''s heels on the floor seemed to warm the ce up, sending that warmth right. into Walter''s heart.


    He watched her, this tiny whirlwind of a person, bustling in front of him, and felt an unexpected glow of affection.


    Hearts were soft things, after all, and Evangeline''s was exception.


    Twists and turns aside, injuries or not, her concern was all for him in the end.


    Evangeline grabbed the kit and peeled off the old gauze from his wound, frowning at the dried blood. "Lucky it''s not too bad. I should just leave you be! You never watch out for yourself!" +35 BONUS


    "Walter, you''re insane! Let go of me this instant!"


    "No way!"


    Walter did not pause to think before he answered, and he even had the nerve. to press closer, his lips barely touching her ear as he whispered, "I''ve been thinking about this for a while. Ever since they put in these windows, I''ve imagined how amazing it would be to have y His hand gently caressed her waist before gripping it firmly, like a predator that would not release its hold on the prey after a sessful chase.


    "Evangeline, you''re not getting away!"


    Pinned against the window, a chill ran down Evangeline''s spine as she looked out at the sea of lights below, her heart pounding so hard she felt like she might cry. "You jerk!"


    She fought back with every ounce of strength she had, but Walter was just too strong.


    "Stay still! You''ll hurt yourself more..."


    Suddenly, Evangeline froze, as if a spell had been cast on her. She did not


    dare to move a muscle.


    What she did not realize was that this was exactly what Walter was waiting for.


    He moved closer, finally reaching the ce he had been dreaming of.


    Close to Evangeline, he could feel the warmth radiating from her. Despite her efforts to stay calm, she knew there was no escaping tonight.


    "We can''t do this without protection..."


    "Why not? It''s a special day, maybe luck is on our side... Ah..."


    A groan, filled with longing, escaped Walter as he crossed the final barrier,pletely embracing the one he cherished.


    125 RONUS


    In the glow of the city lights, Walter''s eyes sparkled with mischief, his smile devilish as he put more energy into his embrace.


    The night was far from over. Once was never going to be enough.


    When morning came, Evangeline woke up in the lounge to the warm sunlight. She felt an ufortable stickiness and frowned.


    The night had been intense. By the end, all she remembered was Walter''s relentless energy, and she had no choice but to go along with it, too exhausted to even keep track.

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    hapter 221


    Walter was already gone. Evangeline reached out for the cold space beside her, not at all surprised by his absence.


    She tried to sit up, only then fully realizing how over-the-top Walter had been. Her legs were jelly, shaking with every little move. Getting out of bed seemed like an impossible task.


    Evangeline''s brow creased as she took in the room. She could not just keep crashing in Walter''s office lounge forever, could she?


    Gritting her teeth, she forced herself to stand, her legs shaking like leaves in the wind.


    As she moved, a hot flush of embarrassment coursed through her, starting somewhere deep and trickling down to her heels. She knew exactly what it was, and the mortification that followed made her wish she could vanish into the floorboards and never resurface. Walter, at least, had shown some decency. He ripped up her old clothes but thoughtfully prepared a fresh set in the bathroom, even including a pair offy ts.


    The light green jumpsuit he had chosen was crisp and chic, entirely Evangeline''s vibe. She could not help but nod in approval at her reflection.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Regardless of everything, Walter had a knack for picking out clothes.


    Hobbling out of the lounge, she immediately spotted Walter at his desk, buried in paperwork.


    He looked up and gave her a knowing lift of his eyebrows. "Morning," he said with a hint of a tease. "Why not sleep in a little?"


    Evangeline took in the sight of Walter, from his crisp white shirt-two buttons undone, casually revealing a glimpse of his sculpted chest-to his sleek ck trousers and the way his short hair seemed to have a mind of its own.


    He was effortlessly cool and undeniably hot. Of course, it was his face, with


    its chiseled features, brooding brows, and the slight smirk ying on his lips, that really drew the eye.


    Seeing him like this, a word danced into Evangeline''s thoughts.


    Charismatic.


    Yeah, that was Walter. Pure charisma.


    Evangeline could not help but notice Walter''s eyebrows seemed to be doing a victory dance. How could he be so pleased after putting himself through such an ordeal?


    "Time''s flying," she said, eyeing the clock. It was already ten in the morning.


    A thought struck her, and with a furrowed brow, she tossed two frosty words. over her shoulder at Walter, who looked far too pleased with himself. "I''m. out."


    "Leaving already?"


    Walter set aside the papers he was holding, his voice cool as ice, though inside, he was a storm of conflicting emotions.


    They had shared a night full of passion, yet she was walking out without a second nce.


    "Got stuff to do."


    Evangeline headed for the door.


    Walter''s gaze sharpened, and in a sh, he was on his feet, pulling her back and gently but firmly guiding her to the couch.


    Before she could protest, he spoke from above her, "You''ve got things to do, I get it. But not before breakfast."


    He seemed to realize he might have been too persistent and softened his tone. "Just remember, you''re trying for a baby. You''ve got to eat regrly."


    As Walter dialed David''s number, Evangeline looked down at the floor, her mind a million miles away. Her heart felt heavy, tangled with sadness and a


    sense of loss.


    She had fooled herself into thinking Walter was being caring by insisting on breakfast. s, his concern was all for the baby they were trying for, not for her. In his heart, it was all about the child...

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 222

    Chapter 222


    All the emotions she had been holding back came rushing forward, sweeping away thest traces of her affection for Walter. This was the Walter she had falled to see until the moment.


    She had always known, deep down, that she did not have a ce in his heart. It was her own wishful thinking, her heart skipping a beat because he had taken a knife for her.


    She finally got it: When it came to Walter, she had to guard her heart and shut down those feelings to protect herself, and she was determined to do just that.


    Under Walter''s intense stare, Evangeline forced herself to eat the breakfast David had picked up at the crack of dawn, bite by bite. Then, without a backward nce, she walked out of the Gordon Group''s towering skyscraper. Walter, on the other hand, was in high spirits, a stark contrast to Evangeline''s turmoil. The man who was usually a stickler for perfection at work had transformedThis text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    into a charmer, all smiles even when a top executive goofed up big time, offering nothing but a grin and some friendly advice to


    fix the error.


    Come noon, Walter was scheduled to seal a deal worth millions at the Maranini Grand Hotel in Avalon City, all thanks to David''s meticulous nning.


    The client was a bit of a character, shunning the quiet of private rooms for the bustling hotel lobby. Walter, ever the easygoing one, saw no issue with it. If the client was happy, so was he.


    David had snagged a window seat away from the hustle, a spot just quiet enough to talk business without whispers turning into shouts.


    Walter''s reputation meant he never had to y nice-people were drawn to his influence like moths to a me. Today''s client was no exception. A quick chat, a few signatures, and the rest was just the dance of business banter and the clinking of sses. 1/1


    :


    Lucky for Walter, the client loved to chat, and their meeting was more of a lively banter than stiff negotiations, drinks flowing freely.


    However, in the midst of their revelry, a man and a woman suddenly appeared, heading straight toward them.


    The guy was tall and lean, rocking a ck casual outfit that screamed cool but did not hide the fact that he was someone important. The woman beside him was a vision, perfectly proportioned, in a white dress that was all kinds of stunning, with her long ck hair cascadin It was Evangeline!


    Walter could not peel his eyes away from her. His boiling rage was drowned in liquor as he knocked back three drinks straight.


    Evangeline was driving him nuts!


    He fumed over her morning excuse of being busy. If he had known she had the energy to sneak out for a date with some random dude, he would not have gone easy on herst night. He should have kept going till the break of dawn, leaving her too wiped to even think abo Evangeline had just settled into her seat when she felt a sudden chill down her spine.


    She brushed it off as her own paranoia and did not think much of it, instead urging Hank to sit quickly.


    The service at this fancy hotel was of the highest quality. The waiter quickly brought the menu, debating whether to hand it to Evangeline or Hank before decidingdies first.


    Evangeline just waved it off and passed the menu to Hank with an apologetic smile.


    "I promised to take you out for a meal, and I''ve been too caught up to make.


    it happen. Now that I''ve finally got you here, don''t hold back. Order whatever you fancy!" Chapter 222


    25 BONUS


    Ever since Hank had joined thepany, he had been all in, either buried in overtime or on his way to more.


    GET IT NOW


    Chapter

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 223

    Chapter 223


    Evangeline was thrilled yet a tad anxious aboutnding such an awesome CEO.


    Evangeline could not help but feel a mix of pride and worry. She was proud that she had seen Hank''s potential from the start, but worried too. How could a guy with Hank''s talent stick around as the CEO of the Foster family''spany forever? He was just helping out, and sooner orter, his time would be up.


    "I won''t hold back, then!" Hank dered with his usual open-hearted charm,pletely at ease in front of Evangeline. He never yed his cards close to his chest, and he dove right into the menu.


    This was Hank''s first time in Avalon City, let alone at this hotel''s restaurant, so he had no clue which dishes were the hits.


    "Hey, it''s our first visit. Got any house specials to rmend?" Hank asked the waiter, who practically sparkled at the chance to make a good impression for his monthly review. Heunched into a spiel with gusto.


    "Everyone raves about our Wellington Royale Steak. And just for the holidays, we''ve got this ''True Love 99'' couples'' special with the steak. Ites with dessert, a hearty soup, fruit for afters-you name it," the waiter pitched, pointing them to the right page. Hank flipped to the set meal section, and a pair of cheerful candles jumped out at him.


    "If I go for this couples'' special, do I get to keep the candles?" joked Hank, just trying to keep things light.


    The waiter was dead serious. "Our menu''s all real-deal photos. What you see is what you get-no surprises," he assured them.


    In other words, the candles were part of the deal.


    The waiter''s eyes danced from Evangeline to Hank as if trying to figure out who was calling the shots.


    "Sir, are you interested in our special offer? We''ve got a couple''s meal deal that''s flying off the shelves, and lucky for you, there''s one left." Hank wavered, a bit stuck.


    Dining on a candlelit couple''s meal with Evangeline was definitely on his wish list, but he was not sure if Evangeline would be on board.


    What he did not seeing was that Evangeline did not fuss over the couple''bel on the meal. To her, it was just a catchy sales pitch, no big deal. Noticing Hank''s interest, she jumped in to decide.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    "Looks like we got thest one-what a stroke of luck! We''ll take the set meal, please. Hank, anything else catches your eye? Go ahead and order." The service at the grand hotel was outstanding, and the dishes arrived in no time.


    Over the glow of candlelight, Hank and Evangeline savored their red wine steak, keeping the conversation alive.


    "Hank, Mr. Davis mentioned Uncle Yale dropped by your office today and hung around for quite a bit. What''s up with that?"


    Hank had quickly made a ssh at thepany, so it made sense that Yale took an interest in him.


    However, her uncles usually stayed out ofpany business unless she asked for help. Why would they seek out Hank? Was it possible that, unbeknownst to her, Hank and Yale had be close enough to have casual conversations?


    Hank''s steak-cutting hand froze for a second, and a hint of red colored his cheeks. He looked up, his face swiftly regaining itsposure.


    Trying to sound casual, he said, "Oh, it''s no big deal. Yale just wanted to talk about something concerning you."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 224

    Chapter 224


    That piqued Evangeline''s interest. Yale did not talk with her and instead went behind her back to talk to Hank, of all people?


    "What''s the big secret? Why are you guys keeping me out of the loop?"


    Hank let out a big, easyugh. "Keep you out of the loop? Please, if I wanted to do that, I''d just whip up some excuse right? I wasn''t going to tell you, but since you''re asking, I guess it''s time toy my cards on the table." Evangeline felt a knot form in her stomach. Anything that needed such a clear stance was definitely not trivial.


    What Hank said next totally blindsided her.


    "He told me that all five of them think I''m the best guy for you to marry. They even came to me to see what I thought about it."


    "And what did you tell them?"


    Evangeline''s mind shed back to the conversation in Walter''s office, where Holden had confidently promised to set her up on a blind date.


    So, it was not just a spur-of-the-moment thing, and they had been scouting for a match for her all along?


    This was all happening way too fast. She was not ready for any of this!


    "What could I say? I just told them the truth."


    uncles


    Hank''s voice carried a hint of resignation as he said, "I''m at the right age for marriage, and my family''s on my case about it. Since your think it''s a good idea, if you''re on board, I don''t see why not." seem to


    As he spoke, a hidden pain throbbed in his heart, but he maintained a nonchnt facade.


    He knew Evangeline too well, having been by her side long enough to read her emotions from the slightest gesture.


    He had cherished Evangeline for years, yet he had never seen a glimmer of


    the same affection in her eyes.


    Hank was not afraid of loving in vain. All he wanted was for Evangeline to be happy, even if that happiness did not include him. Hank would rather suffer in silence than push Evangeline into a marriage she did not want.


    She had no clue about the storm of emotions raging in Hank''s heart. She just thought her uncles were totally off the mark with their matchmaking. After all, she and Hank had been friends for ages. If there was any romantic spark, it would have shown up already, right? "Look, I''m sorry about this. I''m on the verge of a divorce, and my uncles think I''m not taking it well. They''re in a hurry to find me a new Prince Charming. Just ignore their crazy talk, okay?" said Evangeline, her toes nervously tapping the ground, a forced smile flickering on her lips.


    Did her uncles really think she was doomed to be single forever without Walter? Why were they so desperate to sell'' her to the next guy in line?


    It was obvious that they had too much time on their hands, meddling in her life for fun. She had to find someone on her own, and fast. This time, the spotlight was on Hank, and she


    could still talk her way out of it. However, if they brought in some random guy, she would be at a total loss!


    Meanwhile, Walter, who was lurking nearby, could not stand the sight of Evangelineughing it up with Hank. He fantasized about dragging her away and teaching her a lesson she would not forget, making her regret her cheerful banter with another man. He caught himself, took a deep breath, and instead, he called her.


    Evangeline was already trying to steer the conversation away from awkward. topics with Hank when her phone buzzed, making her jump.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter?


    Why on earth was he calling her? Did he expect her to join him for lunch as if they were still nning a future together?


    Evangeline shivered at the thought, her phone''s relentless ringtone echoing louder and louder, refusing to quit.

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    Biting the bullet, Evangeline hit the answer button. Before she could get a word out, the caller''s voice filled her ear


    "Evangeline, what''s taking you so long? You''re really dragging your feet picking up."This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter had been waiting forever and was losing his cool, especially after watching her stare nkly at her phone without making a move. He was so frustrated that he felt like running over and answering the phone for her! "I''m at work. What''s up?"


    Evangeline was not one for lies. Her act was just a facade to hide the hollowness inside.


    If Walter found out she was out having lunch with Hank, it could unleash a whole mess she was not ready to deal with. She could not handle the drama of just one lunch date.


    All she wanted was to quietly and safely ride out the rest of the cooling-off period before her divorce from Walter, and then smoothly get her hands on that divorce certificate-the ticket to her freedom.


    "At work?" Walter''s voice rose in pitch as he stood up and quickly made his way to Evangeline''s desk.


    Evangeline thought his voice sounded so close because of her phone''s clear earpiece, but when she looked up, she was startled to see him sitting right next to her, the phone still pressed to his ear. Panic hit her like a wave, and her hand went limp, dropping the phone to the floor.


    "You-how did you get here?"


    Walter''s smile was cool and collected as he casually arched an eyebrow." Weren''t you at the office? So howe I find you here, Evie?"


    His voice, calling her ''Evie'', was soft and tender, filled with a warmth that


    belled the tension of the moment.


    Walter had almost never called her that, and it felt strangeing out of her mouth. Evangeline was not feeling the slightest bit thrilled though. In fact, she was so full of regret that she could hardly stand it. Why did she even bother lying?


    She could have just said she was out eating with a friend. Walter probably would not have made a big deal out of it. Why did she let herself get to this point, caught in a lie in front of everyone?


    Walter sarcastically picked up Evangeline''s phone from the floor and handed it back to her, even taking a moment to tease her, "Look at you, freaking out over nothing. Hold on to your phone tightly now. Don''t drop it again, okay?" With that, Walter finally turned his attention to Hank.


    No dramatic scene of a husband catching a cheater, just Walter casually lifting his wine ss from under the candlelight and toasting Hank. He swirled the ss and took a casual sip.


    When everyone thought he would stay silent, he spoke up coolly, "Mr. Tarp, having a good time at the candlelit dinner with my wife?"


    He put a little extra punch on ''my wife'', just to make sure Hank got the message: Evangeline was his, Walter''s, wife. Always had been, and always would be.


    What Walter did not realize was that his bold attitude had just ticked Hank off.


    Instead of feeling embarrassed about being caught, Hank picked up his wine ss with grace and reached out to clink it against Walter''s.


    The sound of the two sses meeting was sharp and clear.


    Hank pulled back his ss under Walter''s mix of shock and fury, taking a blissful sip of the wine. Even as he savored the rich vor, his gaze lingered on Evangeline. "Evie, I''ve got toe clean. There''s more to the story than what I told you."

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    "You might think you''re just keeping your promise to take me out to eat, but it''s not that simple for me.


    "Your uncles picked this ce for dinner on purpose. They wanted to set us up on a blind date." Each word Hank spoke hit Evangeline like a bolt of lightning, leaving her mind a total nk.


    As she tried to wrap her head around his revtion, her mouth opened and closed, speechless.


    Hank had already shifted his focus to Walter.


    "Walter," he said. "What gives you the right to sit here and act out some drama about catching a cheater? Evie is her own person. It doesn''t matter to you if we''re just having dinner or if we''re more than that. Her uncles are cool with us, so why should you have a say?" Hank delivered his speech coolly, leaving Evangeline with one thought: This guy was a master at dropping bombshells!


    Stunned, Evangeline could not help but feel a twinge of glee at Walter''s contorted, bitter expression. It was like he had swallowed a lemon.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    She could not help butugh inwardly. Walter was finally put in his ce.


    Silently, she gave Hank a mental thumbs-up for his audacity.


    Nice one!


    Walter was not about to let that slide. He hit back with a cold sneer, his good looks turning icy, like he was channeling a blizzard that had been brewing for eons.


    "Mr. Tarp, are you familiar with the fact that I am still her husband?"


    Evangeline shivered at his words, and Hank''s face lost all color in a sh.


    Walter, seeing their reactions, ditched his earlier slump and beamed with


    smug satisfaction.


    "That means I''m not quite Evangeline''s ex yet. You might be Mr. Perfect with her family''s thumbs-up, but unless I bow out, you''re out of luck. No offense, but I think you''re celebrating too soon."


    He finished with a taunting eyebrow raised at Hank, oozing arrogance that could make anyone''s blood boil.


    "Too soon? I don''t think so. If anything, it''s a tadte."


    Hank brushed it off.


    "What''s your oath of marriage worth, anyway? We''ve all seen how you''ve treated Evie. If things were peachy, why would her uncles even think of passing her happiness to me? Since you''re clearly not the dream team, isn''t a split just a ticking time bomb? Plus, James men off period is almost up, isn''t it? I''m not sure what you''re trying to prove by being so stubborn."


    Hank hit back hard, cool as a cucumber on the outside. Internally, however, he was riding a tidal wave of emotions.


    He was dead set on being Evangeline''s real deal, and that meant he had to leap over the Walter hurdle.


    Even though Evangeline had not said yes to being with him yet, he was determined to win her over. He nned to take care of everything so that all she would have to do wase to him and bask in their shared joy.


    That was why putting Walter in his ce and clearing away the messy ties of a post-divorce life was absolutely essential.


    "Stubborn, am I?"


    Walter''sugh was unapologetically loud. "Just a friendly reminder, Evangeline and I haven''t signed those divorce papers yet. There''s always a chance we won''t go through with it. Imagine pouring out all that love for nothing, only to end up loitering around us, all bitter and

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    Walter did not miss a beat, shooting Evangeline a look that was loaded with meaning.


    That look was so charged that it sent her mind racing back to the wild night they had just spent together.


    If she did not care about Walter, why did sheply so easily when heN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    y did sh


    mentioned his injury? Why did she let him have his way?


    Denying something did not make it any less true. She could fool anyone, but she could not fool her own heart.


    How could she just watch as Hank, who was defending her honor, got pushed around?


    Walter, as if reading her thoughts, effortlessly drew her into his side. "Isn''t that right, Evie?"


    His voice was soft and coaxing, and the way he said ''Evie'' seemed to drip with genuine emotion. Evangeline could hear the underlying sarcasm, though. After all, Walter''s desire to win was just a man''s pride showing off in front of Hank. What real feelings could he have for her?


    Evangeline and Walter were locked in a silent battle, and Hank was clueless about the tension. To anyone watching, their stolen nces seemed more like yful flirting right under Hank''s nose. Feeling a rush of emotion, Hank could not stand it any longer and stood up abruptly.


    "Evie, something''se up at work, so I''ve got to head out. We''ll catch up over dinner some other time, okay?"


    Walter''s taunts had lit a fire in Hank; he was determined to win Evangeline''s heart.


    Even if it took everything he had, and even if Evangeline never came to like him, he was set on saving her from Walter, the jerk without a shred of decency!


    2D BONUS


    "Hank..."


    Evangeline''s voice trailed off, trying to keep him there, but he did not wait around. He just got up and left.


    Walter, on the other hand, did not miss a beat. He caught every subtle move she made, especially the way her gaze lingered on Hank as he walked away, which really got under his skin.


    With a deliberate motion, Walter raised his hand with its prominent knuckles and waved itzily in front of Evangeline''s face, snapping her out of her daze.


    "He''s gone. What are you still staring at?"


    Evangeline''s eyes snapped back into focus, the confusion quickly reced by her usual spark. "Walter, you''re doing this on purpose, aren''t you?


    "We''re getting a divorce, remember? Is it so wrong for me to look for a little happiness now? Why do you have to butt in? Do you really want to chase off every guy I meet so I end up alone after we split? Is that what you want, for me to be miserable?" Even though there was nothing going on between her and Hank, Evangeline knew she had to snuff out Walter''s toxic thoughts before they sabotaged her chance at a fresh start and future happiness.


    Her questions hit Walter like a barrage of arrows, each one sharp and unerring, making his ears burn and his heart ache.


    He had been so transparent with his feelings, believing that time would make her love grow. He had even stooped to tactics he despised like some tyrant taking what he wanted by force.


    Even so, this woman, with no heart to speak of, had only one thing on her mind: Divorce, divorce, divorce!


    What did that tell him? It screamed that he did not even have the tiniest spot in Evangeline''s heart. All she could think about when she looked at him was getting a divorce!


    na

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    The sting of unrequited love was harsh, and Walter, flesh and blood like anyone else, could not stand the sight of Evangeline''s scowl any longer.


    "So should I chase away any guy who gets close to you?"


    His face hardened, eyes zing with fury.


    "Evangeline, you''re out there meeting other guys while we''re still married, and I''m just having dinner with clients. Then I find out I''m theughingstock with a giant ''cheated'' sign over my head. Is it so wrong for me toe and ask what''s going on?" Evangeline''s anger deted like a popped balloon.


    He had a point, but why did she feel so unfairly treated?


    All Yale did was give her a heads-up that Hank was doing well at thepany, contributing a lot, and that she should keep in touch to keep morale high. That was just work stuff, right? What did it have to do with. Walter?


    Who would have guessed that everyone, Yale and Hank included, knew that today''s lunch was a setup for a date? Everyone but her, the supposed star of the show,pletely in the dark.


    Evangeline was at a loss for words under Walter''s piercing gaze. How could she exin? Was she to me it on Yale''s meddling, or admit she had no clue her dinner with Hank was actually a blind date?


    With their divorce just around the corner, did any of it really matter?


    Silence was her only refuge, but to Walter, it was as good as a confession.


    He could not take it anymore. Ignoring the clients waiting for him to return to their celebration, he got up and stormed out without a backward nce..


    The couple''s steak Evangeline and Hank had ordered was still wafting its inviting scent, and the rest of the meal followed, each dish a feast for the senses, but Evangeline''s appetite had vanished. No matter how tempting


    the spread, her heart just was not in it.


    She knew deep down that dating while still married, even a day shy of the divorce cooling-off period, was out of line. Guilt washed over her, leaving her heart restless, like it was bouncing on a spring with nowhere tond. She needed someone to talk to.


    On a whim, she called Roslyn, a friend she had not reached out to in ages.


    Roslyn, fresh off a big scene in her own life, lit up at the call.


    "My little princess, you finally thought of me!"This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "As if I could ever forget you," replied Evangeline, a small smile breaking through her troubled thoughts.


    Evangeline tried to y it cool as she chuckled, cutting straight to the chase. "Got any ns? How about we grab a drink or two?"


    "Free as a bird! Where are we heading? I''ll be there in a sh!"


    Roslyn was a thrill-seeker at heart, and the grind of shooting scenes every day was just too much. She was itching for a chance to break free and unwind. Evangeline''s invite could not havee at a better time-it was like a gift from the heavens! At Kronovia Royale Pub, Evangeline wanted a real talk with Roslyn, so she went ahead and reserved a ssy and serene private room.


    Roslyn''s jaw dropped when she saw the orange juice on the private room''s coffee table. "Evie, you''re not telling me we came to a pub to sip on orange. juice?"


    Was this the same princess of the Foster family? What happened to that wild and free spirit? Where were those sexy curves?


    Seeing Evangeline in her uptight business suit, Roslyn was in total disbelief.


    Cluster:

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    C


    Roslyntched onto Evangeline''s arm and cheekily snuggled up to it.


    "Out with it, what''s got you all changed up? Did that jerk Walter stir up some drama again?"


    Roslyn figured if Evangeline hit the bar and skipped the booze, it had to be something monumental, something beyond her wildest guesses. "Does having a kid count?"


    If getting knocked up was the kind of drama in question, then yes, Walter had definitely stirred up something.


    "What did you just say?" Roslyn shot up like she had been zapped, her eyes as wide as saucers, fixed on Evangeline''s still-not-showing belly.


    "Aren''t you and Walter headed for divorce? And now there''s a baby on the way?"


    Could they actually be patching things up?


    Yikes. She had just called Walter a total jerk. She hoped Evangeline was not too mad.


    "You know, my grandfather has been really sick..." Evangeline''s voice was tinged with resignation.


    Cole''s health was on the rocks, and no one knew how much time he had left. As his only granddaughter, she felt it was her duty to grant hisst wish and carry on the family name.


    Walter? Well, they were still married, technically. She could not let her child be one without a father. Plus, she had to admit, a part of her wanted to have a baby with the man she once adored.


    a


    ''But you can''t just have a baby with him!"


    Roslyn had seen enough drama in her own family tost a lifetime.


    "Don''t you get it? A kid is everything to a mom. Walter is already a nightmare


    to you. What aboutter, when you''re older and not as, you know, fresh? Are you going to stick it out with Walter just for the kid''s sake?"


    Roslyn was the life of the party, but she was dead serious when it came to Evangeline''s well-being.


    She was Evangeline''s best friend. She would never let her dive headfirst into disaster.


    "No." Evangeline caught on to Roslyn''s worries and quickly soothed them, " The divorce is still on. It''s just about having a baby. The Fosters have enough cash. Why would I put myself through misery for the kid?" "You''ve got a point."


    Roslyn''s anxiety eased, hermon sense kicking back in, though her eyes were still clouded with concern. "Still, being a single mom''s no easy feat."


    "So what? Grandpa''s time is running short, and the least I can do is fill his final days with joy."


    Evangeline''s words had clearly struck a chord with Roslyn.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    "Don''t fret, though. The kid''s dad may be absent, but he''s got me, his awesome godmother, right? Listen up, Evie, I''m taking up godmother duties, boy or girl!" Roslyn dered, thumping her chest with a yful resolve that coaxed a chuckle out of Evangeline. "Deal! With you as a godmother, I''m way less worried!"


    Evangeline had made up her mind to raise the child alone, and she felt a pang of guilt for her child''s fatherless future ahead.


    With Roslyn''s affection and the uncles'' love, the kid would surely be surrounded by warmth, right?


    The shadows cast by Walter''s actions faded away, and Evangeline''s heart was filled with visions of her unborn child''s face, even if it was still just a tiny, shapeless zygote somewhere in transit.


    A thought suddenly hit Roslyn.


    "The Gordons aren''t exactly nobodies. You think they''ll just let you walk


    away with Walter''s baby after a divorce? Once the baby''s here, he won''t try to take the kid from us, will he?"


    Chapter 23d

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    Walter was not the type to back down without a fight.


    Evangeline''s game n was simple: She would keep the knowledge of her baby from Walter, and then vanish from his life post-divorce.


    The baby was hers and hers alone. No matter what, Walter was not getting his hands on her child.


    Evangeline was lost in thought, her mind a whirlwind of half-formed ns. she could not pin down. When Roslyn shared her worries, Evangeline was at a loss for words.


    "Don''t sweat it, I''ve got a n," Evangeline reassured her. "Hey, I sent you an invite to my birthday party. Why''d you bail on me?"


    The thought stung. Her birthday hade and gone without a peep from Roslyn, her ride-or-die best friend. It had been a real letdown.


    Roslyn''s face crumpled with regret. "Ugh, my agent''s the worst. She''s pushing me into the TV scene and signed me up for this drama without asking. I was so ticked off that I almost fired her. But the studio was breathing down my neck, so I had to y along. They even to back until I was deep into filming. By then, your party was old news."


    Roslyn was still steamed about it, but she knew deep down that her agent was just looking out for her future. She could not bite the hand that fed her, so she buckled down to give her all to the role.


    "It''s cool, workes first," said Evangeline, her voice warm with


    understanding.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Their bond was too strong for such formalities. Evangeline was not just okay. with it; she was stoked for Roslyn''s big break.


    "Anyway, we don''t even drink. What''s the fun of hanging out at a bar with just juice? Let''s bounce and head home."


    Roslyn, who had been roughing it on set, was not keen on going back to that


    grind. She had finally taken a day off and wanted to make the most of it.


    "You sure you can skip out on filming tonight?" asked Evangeline, hesitant to mess with Roslyn''s schedule.


    She would love nothing more than to chill with her best friend, but not if it meant throwing a wrench in Roslyn''s career.


    "Absolutely," Roslyn''s eyes sparkled at the thought of taking it easy, gripping Evangeline''s arm and putting on her best sad face. "Evie, you have no idea, life on set is brutal. Even getting a shower is a hassle!


    "I finally got a chance to get away today, and thest thing I want is to go. back to that grind! Plus, I''ve already taken leave from my dreadful agent, so if you don''t let me crash with you tonight, I''ll be out on the streets!" Roslyn''s tale grew more dramatic by the second, and she even managed to squeeze out a couple of fake tears.


    Evangeline chuckled without hesitation. "Okay, okay, I''ll think of somewhere we can hang out."


    She knew full well that Roslyn, with her fame, was far from being homeless. She just wanted to spend some quality time together, since it had been ages since theirst adventure.


    Where to go was the question. Then it hit her-the gift she got at her birthday party. Yale had given her a mansion in the posh Eastgate District, Emerald of the Hignds. She had epted it but never actually visited. This was the perfect spot for their retreat!

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    Roslyn''s eyes gleamed as Evangeline announced, "I''ve got the perfect ce. Let''s hit the road." They had never been there, so Evangeline and Roslyn packed some tasty treats and set off for their new hideaway. It turned out that the Emerald of the Hignds really lived up to its name.


    Nestled by the sea, the Eastgate District was a slice of heaven, with postcard -perfect views and year-round spring vibes. Even in the fall, the ce was lush with greenery, like something out of a fairy tale.


    Evangeline, with a little help from the security guard, pulled her car into the driveway and took a good look at the vi Yale had gifted her.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The ce was sleek and modern, with each brick screaming luxury. Even the simple swing in the yard was crafted from the finest wood.


    Stepping inside, the vi''s interior was just as stunning. Every room was decked out with all the bells and whistles, spacious and bright, withvish decor and furniture that was both plush and ssy. Every detail was just about perfect, showing just how much care had gone into making this house a home.


    Evangeline settled onto the couch, taking in every inch of the ce, soaking up the warmth that Yale had wrapped around her with this gift.


    She took out her phone, struck a pose on the couch with a beaming smile, and snapped a selfie to send off to Yale.


    "I absolutely adore the house. Thanks a ton for the gift, Uncle Yale!"


    It was time for the girls to catch up and have a st.


    It had been ages since Evangeline and Roslyn had seen each other, and they had a mountain of things to chat about.


    All thetest gossip, the ups and downs of married life, and the scoop on Roslyn''s career moves...


    "Speaking of which, Roslyn... I''m on the brink of divorce. Howe there''s


    +26 BONUS


    no buzz on your end? With your reputation in showbiz, there has to be a line of folks dying to date you, right?"


    Evangeline was sure Roslyn was a total catch. Thus, when she voiced her concerns, she had to add, "That showbiz world is a mess. Just make sure you don''t get so caught up in the glitz that you miss out on real love, okay?"


    She did not want Roslyn to end up with another actor, but finding someone outside that crazy bubble seemed difficult.


    What Evangeline did not realize was that her offhandment had hit a


    nerve.


    "Who says I''m caught up in anything?" Roslyn''s eyes suddenly clouded over with sadness. "I''ve had a crush for ages. If it wasn''t for him, do you think I''d have waited this long to dive into acting? The director told me the lead role would have some pretty cozy scenes. Even I''ve been stalling."


    That also


    was a


    why her agent, in a bold move to nudge her forward, snagged her a part in a drama without asking first. Roslyn was dead set against it and even had a blowout fight with her agent that almost ended their


    partnership. In the end, she gave in to the pressure. What was the point of trying to date someone who did not even see her?


    Evangeline had never imagined that the usually upbeat and easygoing Roslyn could be so saddened. She had not even known Roslyn had someone special in her life. It seemed like she had been too wrapped up in her own drama with Walter to notice Roslyn''s heartache.


    "Is it that he doesn''t like you? What''s the deal?"

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    Evangeline figured if she got the details, she might be able to help Roslyn figure something out.


    ''My own love life had crashed and burned, but if I could y matchmaker for my best friend and see her happily hitched, it''d be a silver lining.''


    "Let''s face it, the chances of me and him working out are pretty much nonexistent. Like he said, we''re from two different worlds. How could we ever mesh? Oh, and I totally spaced on telling you, but he''s like... eleven years older than me."


    As Roslyn spilled her heart out, Evangeline was baffled at what kind of guy would be blind to the awesomeness of her bestie.


    When she heard about the eleven-year age gap, it clicked.


    "You know how they say three years is enough for a generation gap? You guys are eleven years apart; you''re practically from differents. With that huge of an age difference, can you really stick it out? I mean, when you were toddling around in diapers, he was alread She could not help but admire Roslyn''s guts.


    Never mind if her crush could turn into a fairy tale ending, just having the guts to fall for someone so much older was enough to win Evangeline''s awe.


    "I know!"


    Roslyn tried to shrug it off, but then her emotions got the best of her, and she clutched Evangeline''s wrist. "Evie, I''m head over heels for him! If he''d just say yes, I''d do anything!"


    Seeing the tears welling up in Roslyn''s eyes, Evangeline shed back to when she pleaded with her grandfather to let her marry Walter.


    She was ready to face whatever came with Walter, whether it was bliss or


    blisters.


    Was this their luck when it came to love? Both were the type to fall hard and


    get nothing in return....


    Evangeline let out a quiet sigh as Roslyn''s voice filled the room.


    "He just won''t say yes. He keeps turning me down, telling me I''m too young, that I don''t really know what I want. He''s older and all he wants is to chill out and live his life, not get dragged into chaos by a kid like me."


    The more Roslyn talked, the more worked up she got, holding onto Evangeline until she finally dozed off, tears still clinging to her eyshes.


    Evangeline could tell how much Roslyn cared about the guy.


    It was a shocker, really. Roslyn was usually so cool about guys, and here she was, head over heels. Evangeline could not help but feel sorry for her. Unrequited love was a one-way street to heartache.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    She knew that all too well from her own mess with Walter. She wanted to tell Roslyn to drop it, but having been there herself, the words just would not


    Roslyn was too caught up in the moment, and even knowing it was a dead end, she could not let go. It was the same stubbornness that had her set on marrying Walter, no matter what.


    In the end, Roslyn had to figure it out on her own.


    Evangeline gently freed her pajama sleeve from Roslyn''s hold and slowly walked downstairs.


    She had been dying to use the bathroom, but Roslyn had been pouring her heart out. Evangeline could not bear to cut her off, so she held it in.


    Finally, she could take a break.


    Not wanting to wake Roslyn with the noise, Evangeline decided to head to the downstairs bathroom and thought she would bring back a warm cup of water, too. Chante

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    Chapter 233


    However, as Evangeline set her favorite cup on the water dispenser and was about to hit the boil button, the sound of keys jingling at the door stopped her cold. Oh no! Was she about to face off with a burr?


    A shiver shot up her spine as she realized something was very wrong.


    This was the Eastgate District in Avalon City, the safest ce around. Plus, no crook would waltz in through the front door, right?


    Thinking this, Evangeline crept to a spot by the entrance where she could not be seen, clutching a vase just in case she needed to defend herself.


    The front door swung open, and a warm, familiar voice filled the quiet living room. "Evie, you up?"


    That voice... Evangeline knew who that was. She quickly put the vase down and stepped out.


    There he was, her uncle Yale, looking like he had trekked a thousand miles, still calling out for her. "Uncle Yale! When did you get here?"


    She quickly grabbed a pair of guest slippers and slid them in front of Yale.


    Yale shrugged it off. "I was just worried about you, all alone in this big house.


    He tried to sound casual, but his eyes were all soft and caring when he


    looked at her.


    They settled onto the couch, Evangeline with her freshly boiled water in hand, eager to reassure him. "No way! I''m not here by myself. I came with my best friend. You don''t have to worry, Uncle Yale." Being fussed over by rtives felt amazing.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Evangeline was touched, but she also felt a twinge of guilt for making Yale


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    worry over nothing.


    "Mhm."


    Yale took the cup with a simple nod, and when he looked up again, his gaze had tumed serious.


    "Evie, I came over today for a reason. The house is packed, and it''s tough to talk about certain things there. But now that you''re here at the vi, I figured it''s the perfect time for us to chat." He nced upstairs as if something just urred to him. "Your friend is up there. Is it cool if we talk?"


    Chatting was fine, but he would not want to bug the guests.


    "Oh, totally cool. She''s out like a light, and I shut the door when I left. She won''t wake up." Evangeline got what Yale was worried about and quickly reassured him with a wave of her hand. "Alright, I''ll cut to the chase. Evie, what''s your game n with this whole marriage thing to Walter?"


    Yale did not beat around the bush. "You''ve probably figured out by now that I''m pretty keen on our new CEO, Hank. But I get it, you''re headstrong, and no one can make you do something you don''t want to. So, I''m curious about what''s going on in your head." Truth be told, Evangeline had a hunch something was up the moment Yale showed up. Since Yale had asked, she did not see the point in hiding anything from family.


    "Uncle Yale, to be honest, I haven''t really thought about it."


    The thought of cutting ties with Walter and getting cozy with Hank made her mind go nk, zapping her ability to think straight.


    "I get that you''re setting me up with Hank because you think it''ll make me happy. But even though I get where you''reing from, and I know you care, I just can''t say yes to something I''m not up for. "Lately, Walter and I have been at each other''s throats, and I''ve toyed with


    (*)


    the idea of ditching him for a fresh start, But life doesn''t always y out the way we want. Right now, I''m not even close to ready for a new romance."

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    Chapter 234


    Yale''s face was a mask of seriousness, but Evangeline did not let him get a word in edgewise.


    "You know how bad Grandpa Cole has been," she said. "If we hadn''t pulled some strings with Walter to get Dr. George on board, who knows where he''d be now? There''s only one thing on my mind: To have a baby fast, so he can cuddle his longed-for great- grandkid while he still can."


    "I get it." Yale closed his eyes for a moment, hiding the wave of helplessness that threatened to show. "Evie, could you grab me a drink? I''m in the mood. for some liquor."This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Years in the service had turned Yale into someone who would drown his


    sorrows in a bottle.


    It did not bother him that Evangeline, busy with baby-making ns, could not join him. He was fine drinking alone.


    Evangeline, ever so sweet, fetched a wine ss and a bottle of red wine, pouring him a ss with a caring touch.


    He swirled the wine ss absentmindedly, his eyes tracing the dance of the deep red liquid.


    He was in pain, his heart aching, and it was not just because of Evangeline.


    As he looked at her, as he listened to her, memories of histe sister Yessica flooded back. Their mother had nearly died giving birth to her at an old age, bringing such a treasure into their lives.


    In their big family of seven, even the youngest, James, treated Yessica like she hung the moon. They all did whatever she wanted, and Yessica, bless her heart, never let the special treatment go to her head.


    Then Andrew came along, and everything went sideways.


    Swept up in Andrew''s charming words, Yessica turned her back on her brothers, defied her parents, and even left home to marry him!


    Yessica, ever so headstrong in matters of the heart, ultimately paid with her life for her stubborn love.


    Was Evangeline about to walk down the same tragic path?


    Yale''s hand, clutching his wine ss, shook without warning as he watched Evangeline rummage through the massive liquor cab for vodka. Her delicate silhouette was a haunting echo of Yessica''s on the day she fled, so fragile that it tore at his heart. To avert another heartbreak, their father had reluctantly consented to Evangeline''s marriage to Walter, a match he did not favor.


    To keep history from repeating itself, Yale and his brothers stormed the Gordon Group offices, demanding a divorce.


    However, Yale realized that if Evangeline could not let go of Walter by herself, all their efforts would be futile.


    The vodka arrived.


    Without a second thought, Yale downed a hefty swig. The liquor zed a trail from his throat to his stomach, a searing sensation as if igniting something within.


    He was no stranger to this burn; it somehow helped him release the storm of feelings inside.


    "Evie, be honest with me. What do you really feel for Walter? If you''re just caught up in the moment, us brothers will do whatever it takes to help you. Il do whatever it takes to help you move on and find someone new."


    He said this because he hoped that was what Evangeline needed. The reality was probably not something he would want to hear.


    "Uncle Yale, you don''t have to fuss over me and Walter."


    Evangeline''s head was bowed, her heart heavy with guilt.


    She knew exactly what Yale was hoping to hear from her, but she just could not say it.


    [+}


    What was the point of lying to Yale when she could not even lie to herself?

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    I


    "I married Walter because I was head over heels for him. Now, I''m asking for a divorce because the love is just not there anymore. When you realize you''ve been loving someone who doesn''t love you back, you''ve got to stop yourself from falling any further. I can''t end up li The whole idea of having a kid with Walter, just to please Cole, had always been more about what she wanted for herself. After all, was a child not supposed to be the product of their parents'' love?


    If she had this baby and could watch the child grow, she could tell herself that Walter loved her once, even if he no longer did.


    Truth was, she was mad at herself for being so weak.


    The Foster family''s darling should be all about pride and grace. How could she let herself get this low over a guy?


    She could not help it, though. Even though she knew Walter only had eyes. for Julia, she still...


    Yale and Evangeline sat across from each other on the sofa in the huge living room, one nursing a cup of hot water, the other downing white liquor straight from the bottle.


    Evangeline nced at the clock, then at Yale, who was steadily drinking. She finally spoke up, "Uncle Yale, that''s a lot of wine. Maybe you should take it


    easy."


    Yale turned to her with a look. "Don''t worry about it, I haven''t enjoyed a drink like this in ages. You shouldn''t be upte, go get some sleep."


    Right then, she was seriously hoping for a miracle-like some woman dropping out of the sky to whisk Yale away and deal with his for booze! Shorn love


    The night had taken over, and the living room was shrouded in darkness.


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    Yale, buzzed and not bothering to find his bed, crashed on the couch.


    Roslyn, who had hit the sack early and was parched from not drinking enough water, got out of bed in search of a drink. When she flicked on the living room lights, the ce lit up like a stadium, jolting Yale awake from his drunken slumber.


    Blinking away the fog of sleep, he saw a skinny girl standing across from him, her back turned, doing whatever she did.


    His mind, fuzzy from the booze, immediately jumped to the conclusion that it was Evangeline. Desperate for a drink, he croaked out without a second thought, "I''m thirsty, get me some water..."


    His voice, rough and scratchy, cut through the quiet of the living room, filled only with the sound of running water. It was startlingly out of ce.


    Roslyn, who was at the sink, nearly jumped out of her skin at the sound.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Considering the part of town she was in, she braced herself and turned around.


    The guy sprawled on the bed had a chiseled face, with sharp lines and deep features, topped with a proud nose. His stiff ck jacket was thrown over the back of the sofa, and he was wearing a in white shirt that seemed too hot for him. The top button was undone, reve Roslyn had never seen Yale quite like this.


    In her mind, that top button was always done up, and she had never got a glimpse of his neck.


    Finding Yale in Evangeline''s vi did not faze her one bit.


    She had known for ages that the guy she was crushing on was Evangeline''s uncle, but that was exactly why she had been too scared to tell Evangeline.


    She was terrified that spilling her secrets would not just leave her without Yale''s love-it could also cost her Evangeline, her best friend.


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    "Here you go." Roslyn''s voice was soft as she handed over the water cup.

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    Yale had downed too much alcohol, and the dim room lights and his own instincts kept him on the edge of consciousness, his eyes refusing to open.


    In his haze, he felt the gentle touch of cool hands lifting him onto a soft surface. The chill from the water cup tingled his senses, and then the water began to trickle into his mouth.


    Parched, he gulped down the water eagerly, following the gentle motions of the girl feeding him, until the cup was empty. She took the cup away, asking. with a caring tone, "Want more? I can get you some." "No more," he mumbled, frowning slightly.


    That voice-why did it sound so familiar?


    Roslyn''s heart raced as she held Yale, who was utterly defenseless in her arms. He was drunk, and it was the perfect chance.


    ''Roslyn, you love him, don''t you? Even if you can''t win his heart, having him just this once would be enough, right?'' Roslyn asked herself.


    The thought was so bold it scared her. She was going mad, driven by her love for him!


    If she could just be with him, even for a single night, she would pay any price.


    Roslyn was always bold in thought and action. Her hands shook as she reached for Yale''s shirt, undoing each button with care.


    For the first time, she saw the perfection of Yale''s abs, and her breath caught in her throat.


    Roslyn could not help but drool over the chiseled and fluid lines of his physique. It was a sight even she, a veteran of the glitzy entertainment world, found breathtaking.


    Her taste was impable. The man was not just dependable; he was the whole package!


    The thought of finally getting close to the one she had been dreaming about sent shivers of anticipation down to Roslyn''s fingertips.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    All of a sudden, the man fought to regain his senses, and his eyes snapped


    open.


    "Roslyn?" His voice, roughened by alcohol, made each word sound like i I was being scraped from deep within his throat.


    At that moment, Roslyn froze, and Yale''s face turned to ice. He seized her wrist, flipped over in one smooth move, and pinned her down.


    "Do you realize what you''re doing?"


    He was a military man, trained to endure far more than the average person.


    -If it were not for his training, she would have already...


    The thought made Yale''s gaze harden as he looked down at Roslyn, his chest filled with fury at her recklessness.


    He released her slender wrist and sat up.


    "I... I want this!" Roslyn blurted out, seizing the moment while Yale was too flustered to pay her any attention, and her shimmering red lips made a beeline for his. She was determined to kiss Yale.


    She refused to believe that a drunk man could resist her, especially when she was offering herself to him, soft and inviting.


    Just as their lips were about to meet, Yale turned his head, and her passionate kissnded on his cheek instead.


    With a surge of strength, Roslyn, intent on having her way, found herself pushed back onto the couch.

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    "Roslyn,e on, don''t make me lose respect for you, okay?" Yale''s eyes were icy, and Roslyn felt like she was being frozen solid under his chilly stare.


    "You... Yale, that''s way too harsh!" The hurt she had been bottling up came flooding out, and Roslyn could not hold back her tears any longer. Nevertheless, she would not let Yale see her cry. She dashed back to her room, dove under her covers, and cried without making a sound.


    She was so quick that she did not even bother with her shoes. In the dark, her tears soaked the nket, but she did not care to dry them.


    What was she supposed to do? Being sweet and docile did not work, being bold and forward did nothing, and even her all-out attempt to woo him for just one magical night was failing!


    Yale was just impossible, and it was shattering her heart! This old guy, could she just decide she was done with him? As soon as she thought about it, a sharp pain in her heart answered her.


    Angry at herself, she thumped her chest. Pathetic, pathetic!


    What was so great about that annoying old man anyway? Why should she waste her golden years on him?


    After what felt like forever, Roslyn finally fell asleep with tears still on her


    cheeks.


    Meanwhile, Yale, lying awake on the living room couch, could not find sleep. The alcohol had worn offpletely. He sat there, lost in thought, his fingers absentmindedly brushing the spot on his cheek that Roslyn had kissed. No matter what, making a girl cry was just wr Yale nced at the empty bottles by his feet and let out a deep sigh. Drinking was such a bad idea, especially knowing that Evangeline''s best friend was around. Why did he drink anyway?


    How was he supposed to have predicted that the girl who had been a


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    constant tangle in his life was Evangeline''s best friend?


    At the crack of dawn, Evangeline''s Internal rm clock buzzed her awake. The first thing she saw was Roslyn, still snoozing beside her, looking even more pitiful than when she had conked out. Her eyes had gone from a little red to a full- on apple color, obviously from a midnight cry-fest.


    Evangeline''s heart pinched with concern, but all she could do was let out a helpless sigh. Heartbreak was a solo battle, after all.


    Thinking about Yale, who must have knocked back who-knew-how-many drinks before crashing, she tiptoed down the stairs.


    She and Roslyn had nned ahead for breakfast, stocking up on toast and sushi. A quick zap in the microwave and a steaming cup of milk, and they would be all set.


    As she bustled around the kitchen, she nced over to see Yale stumbling out of bed, looking really tired.


    "Uncle Yale, breakfast is almost up. Why don''t you go wash up?"


    Yale beelined for the downstairs bathroom.


    Roslyn, on the other hand, drifted down the stairs, her steps as light as air. Her feet barely carried her, and her eyes were puffy like giant walnuts.


    Evangeline''s heart twinged at the sight.


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    Chapter 238


    "Roslyn, are you sure you can hit the set looking like that?"


    If Roslyn was not up for acting, maybe a sick day would do her good.


    "I have to go back," said Roslyn, shaking her head with a grimace of distaste. "Coral, that drama queen, made me promisest night that I''d be back today! I''m so over her! The minute I get back, I''m going to ask thepany to give me a new agent!" Coral Ford was the notorious agent Roslyn alwaysined about.


    Evangeline knew better. Roslyn was just blowing off steam. If she actually got rid of Coral, she would be the first to regret it.


    "Come on, you get mad and talk about ditching Coral, but who''s been by your side all these years? Grow up a little, will you? If you can make it to the set, then go. If you can''t, Coral cares too much to ever make you work when you''re sick." Evangeline''s words were full of confidence.


    She had met Coral, a rare gem of an agent who truly had Roslyn''s best interests at heart.


    "It doesn''t matter if she pushes me or not. I need to go back."


    Having scenes to shoot today was just part of why she wanted to return.


    More importantly, she could not stand another minute in that vi, and she definitely did not want to run into the guy who had broken her heart.


    As luck would have it, the moment she settled into a chair at the breakfast table, Yale, fresh and ready for the day, walked in with a purposeful stride. "Evie, what''s for breakfast? Need me to grab something from the store?"


    ""No, we''re good."


    Just then, the microwave dinged. Evangeline slipped on some oven mitts and took out the pre-packaged sushi that was steaming hot. She was not in


    a rush to eat. Instead, she ced a te in front of both Roslyn and Yale, then poured them each a ss of warm milk. It was Roslyn''s breakfast request, after all.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Roslyn had a long day of filming ahead, and it meant keeping a tight leash on her diet. Surrounded by tempting treats she could not touch, she was seriously bummed out. Evangeline was not fretting over Roslyn. Her real worry was whether Yale would like the breakfast she had whipped up."


    What she had not expected was Yale being totally captivated by Roslyn''s puffy, walnut-sized eyes. He did not even clock whether he was munching on sushi or a sandwich. Seeing Yale, who was anything but fussy with food, chowing down made Evangeline''s day. She eagerly yed matchmaker.


    "Roslyn, meet my Uncle Yale.


    "Uncle Yale, this is Roslyn, my friend I''m always talking about. Just call her Roslyn."


    Both of them just grunted, way more into their sushi than the intros.


    After wolfing down the sushi and milk, Yale was ready to bolt.


    Evangeline was not having it. Shetched onto her uncle and turned to Roslyn, saying, "Hey, Uncle Yale, you''re headed back to the Fosters'' with nothing much to do, right? How about you take Roslyn to the set? It''s on your way." She put on her best pouty voice. "If you drop her off, I can skip the early wake-up call and sneak in some more sleep."


    She was not kidding. Last night, she had been haunted by soft cries that kept her tossing and turning. She was really tired.


    Yale gave her a quizzical look, one eyebrow raised. "Is she cool with that?"


    Before, he would have bet anything that Roslyn would be thrilled, maybe even bouncing off the walls with excitement.

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    Chapter 239


    After what went downst night though, Yale was not so sure what was going on in Roslyn''s head anymore.


    Before Evangeline could even get a word in, Roslyn chimed in, "Evie, if you''re tired, just head back and get some sleep. I''ll hitch a ride with Uncle Yale."


    In the white BMW, Yale fired up the engine from the driver''s seat and watched Roslyn wave goodbye to Evangeline before sliding into the seat. beside him. As the door shut, a voice as cold as a robot''s snapped, "Strap in."


    That was when it hit Roslyn that she was riding in Yale''s car, where everything had to be by the book.


    She obediently clicked the seatbelt into ce and waved to Evangeline through the rolled-down window.


    The car zipped off, the roar of the engine nearly drowning out the world.


    Inside the car, insted from the noise, it was dead quiet.


    Roslyn was not in the mood to chat, and Yale was at a loss for words.


    It was odd. After all, Roslyn''s presence usually meant there was never a dull


    moment.


    Last night''s dreamy moments shed in his mind, but Yale shook them off and said with all seriousness, "Let''s pretendst night never happened, okay?"


    Remembering did Roslyn no good.


    As the older one, Yale felt it was his ce to suggest it.


    However, he had no idea just how stubborn that girl could be about him.


    Roslyn reyed the moment in her mind, the thrill of taking the lead for


    once. She recalled her fingers tracing the contours of his chest, her lips. brushing his cheek, and the way he pinned her down on the couch. Could such precious memories be so easily dismissed, as if it had never happened? He might have the heart to forget, but she could not.


    The kiss she had fought so hard for-how could she just erase such a joyous memory?


    "Yale, do you like snakes?" blurted Roslyn, catching him off guard.


    Yale nearly mmed on the brakes. "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    "No wonder," said Roslyn with a wry smile, her voice heavy with implication," You''re as cold as ice-fits the snake image perfectly!"


    It was a clear challenge. Any other guy would have blown his top, but Yale? He was no ordinary guy. A seasoned special ops soldier, he met her jab with a cool smile.


    "Appreciate thepliment."


    They were almost at the set when he pulled over in a quiet spot.


    "We''re here, Roslyn."


    "Okay." Her voice was nonchnt as she clicked off her seatbelt, yet she made no move to open the door.


    Suddenly, Yale felt a shift. He turned to see Roslyn, no longer beside him and instead straddling hisp. Their bodies aligned in a way that seemed ready to ignite at the slightest friction. Roslyn cupped his face in her hands, her gazemanding from above.


    "Yale, since you already know what I didst night... let me take control again."


    "You..."


    Trapped in the tight confines of the driver''s seat with Roslyn''s unexpectedN?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Intrusion, Yale''s muscr frame was wedged immobile. Powerless, he could only watch as Roslyn took the reins.

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    Roslyn loomed above him, her eyes a mesmerizing shade of sea-ss blue, locking onto his intelligent gaze before drifting downwards. The sensation at his lips was warm, tender, and tingling, as if a current passed through them, sapping Yale''s strength in an instant. The kiss deepened, and the subtle hint of lemon from her lips was intoxicating, making Yale''s eyes flutter shut without him even realizing it. His breaths grew heavier and more urgent.


    Yale tried to resist, but Roslyn''s embrace tightened, drawing them closer until they touched in a way that left them both vulnerable. Roslyn, caught in her own mischief, froze for a moment, her cheeks ring up into a bright, eye - catching red. She threw caution to the wind and dove in for another kiss. -Seizing the moment of his startled gasp, she yfully flicked her tongue,


    inviting him to join her in the dance.


    Then, a pair of strong hands came to life, not to push her away, but to draw her even closer, pressing her lips down further. Outside the car, the world was silent and still, but inside, passion red like wildfire. Yale''s hand crept silently beneath Roslyn''s light clothing, tracing her curves with a touch that was just right.


    The small space was filled with a suggestive warmth, and as the temperature soared, Roslyn had to let go of Yale just to catch her breath. Even so, she did not simply sit up. She continued to sway in a teasing manner right where she had been.


    Yale''s eyes zed with a fire ignited by her tant seduction, but a surge ofteing sense reminded him that he, who had already slipped up, could not afford to make another mistake. "Roslyn, get


    off me!" hemanded, his voice as cold as his dark eyes, devoid of any warmth.


    Roslyn, ever the troublemaker, was not about to give up just because he said so. He wanted her off, but she was far from done.


    "Just admit it, Yale. You''re into me!"


    It was not just a crush. Yale did not just kiss her back; he even sneakily


    Chapter 240.


    caressed her!


    If it were not for her bra, her stunning curves would have been at his mercy!


    "What are you even talking about?" Yale snapped back, his face clouding over. "I''m just older than you, and as a perfectly normal, mature man, isn''t it natural to react like that? I''ve done what Evie asked and brought you to the set, so now, please, just get out of the car!" In the blink of an eye, the two went from a tangled mess of feelings to being on the edge of a showdown.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Roslyn could not believe it. How could Yale be so cold, changing his mood at the drop of a hat?


    "No way! You do feel something for me. You like me, so why can''t you just_admit it?"


    Feelings did not lie. When desire welled up, people would show their true colors!


    If Yale really loathed Roslyn as much as he acted, how could he have been so tender with her?


    The more Roslyn thought about it, the more she clung to the hope that her sad little crush might still stand a chance.


    So, until Yale spelled it all out, she was not leaving the car.


    Yale, with a stern look, pushed Roslyn back into the passenger seat andid it out for her, "Can you pleasee back to reality? Roslyn, I''m eleven years older than you. You''re just a kid with a head full of dreams. Do you really expect me to y along? "Plus, you''re Evie''s best friend, practically like a niece to me. There was never anything between us, and there never will be, so you might as well drop it right now!"

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    Chapter 241


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    Yale had always been careful not to hurt Roslyn''s feelings, choosing his words with care even when he wasying down thew. This time, faced with her tearful eyes and the weight of the moment, Yale''s restraint. shattered. He could not believe it hade to this, and he could not bother with being gentle anymore.


    "Niece?" Roslyn echoed his words, her eyes puffy and red as if she had been crying for hours. "Are you still trying to fool both of us? You say you think of me as a niece, but does a niece''s embrace stir anything in you?


    "Alright, you''ve made your feelings crystal clear. I get it. I''ll just keep my distance from now on!" Roslyn had her own pride, but for Yale, she had crushed it to smithereens, all for a single smile from him. She had tried everything, even throwing herself at him, but nothing wor The car door mmed shut, leaving Yale alone with the fresh lemon scent that Roslyn had left behind. Life in the army, surrounded by tough guys, had not prepared him for dealing with a delicate girl like Roslyn, especially one who was trying to date him. Maybe this was for the best, though. He had gotten rid of aplication, or so he thought. Even then, there was this nagging difort in his chest. What was that about? He decided he would just steer clear of Roslyn. With time, this unease would fade away... Back at the Emerald of the Hignds vi, Evangeline finished cleaning up the kitchen chaos and strolled up to her room on the second floor, ready to call it a night.


    Evangeline''s night was anything but restful. Just as she was about to hit the hay, her phone erupted with a ringtone.


    It was Trey on the line.


    She nced at the caller ID, her fingers instinctively grazing the heirloom bracelet from the Gordons, a treasure beyond measure.


    Trey''s warm voice filled her ear the moment she answered.


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    "Evie, Alex is back in town. How about swinging by the old ce for a reunion dinner? It''s been ages since you two caught up. Let''s pick a day for at proper family get-together. I''d love to soak up some of that youthful energy and revel in some good old family fun." Trey was beaming just thinking about his grandson and granddaughter-inw''s return.


    "What about today? I''m free as a bird-no big deals at the office."


    Evangeline had nned to chill, but it had been forever since shest visited Trey. A day off seemed like the perfect chance to check in on him.


    With the dinner being a wee-back celebration for Alex, she could not possibly say no. She owed Alex big time, and a hefty gift was the least she could do to show her gratitude for years of his support.


    When the call ended, Evangeline pondered over the perfect present. It had to be special, something with heart and soul.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    So off she went, driving to the mall on a mission for that perfect something.


    Little did she know, Walter wasid up with an infected wound, fever spiking high, already whisked back to the family estate by David for some rest.


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    "Evle, Alex is back in town. How about swinging by the old ce for a reunion dinner? It''s been ages since you two caught up. Let''s pick a day for a proper family get-together. I''d love to soak up some of that youthful energy and revel in some good old family fun." Trey was beaming just thinking about his grandson and granddaughter-inw''s return.


    "What about today? I''m free as a bird-no big deals at the office."


    Evangeline had nned to chill, but it had been forever since shest visited Trey. A day off seemed like the perfect chance to check in on him.


    With the dinner being a wee-back celebration for Alex, she could not possibly say no. She owed Alex big time, and a hefty gift was the least she could do to show her gratitude for years of his support.


    When the call ended, Evangeline pondered over the perfect present. It had to be special, something with heart and soul.


    So off she went, driving to the mall on a mission for that perfect something.


    Little did she know, Walter wasid up with an infected wound, fever spiking high, already whisked back to the family estate by David for some rest.

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    Chapter 242


    Unbeknownst to them, Walter, face burning up, stumbled downstairs for a drink and heard the entire phone call clearly.


    Was Evangeline going to show up at the old Gordon ce?


    "Cough, cough..."This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He was feeling pretty run-down, and a couple of instinctive coughs managed to snag Trey''s attention.


    "Walter, how are you holding up? Feeling any better?" Trey asked, all worried.


    Walter took a gulp of water and sat down next to Trey. "I''m doing okay, Grandpa. No need to fuss over me."


    He scooted over on purpose, and it was not just to give his grandfather a health update.


    "Did I hear you right? You invited Evangeline over for a family dinner?"


    Being sick was making Walter feel all kinds of vulnerable. His head was pounding, and just the thought of Evangeline showing up stirred up feelings he could not quite put into words.


    Would Evangeline pity him if she saw him all weak and helpless? Maybe enough to reconsider the divorce?


    "Yeah," Trey grumbled. "It''s because you couldn''t cut it when it came to winning over a girl, so I had to step in. Lucky for you, I thought it through and used your brother Alex''s return as a reason to get Evie back here!" Walter was floored.


    "You mean, Evangeline ising to dinner because of Alex?"


    "What else?" Trey shot him a sideways nce, not getting why Walter was so worked up.


    "I told you to treat Evie right from the get-go. What did you do? If you''d just listened to me for once, you wouldn''t have upset Evie like this. But don''t


    +26 BONUS


    overthink it. No matter her reasons, Evie is back with the Gordons. Just focus on how you''re going to make her stay, got it?"


    Walter could not figure out what had driven him away.


    His mind buzzed, thoughts wiped away In an instant, leaving only the image of Alex and Evangeline,ughing together like they did not have a care in the world. Whenever those two were together, the vibe was so chill and cozy, entirely different from the edgy tension that crackled between him and Evangeline.


    Evangeline was his wife, though. How could he stand by while she seemed to care more about Alex than him?


    A wave of anger hit him hard, and the injury he had been dealing with seemed to pulse with fresh pain.


    Grandpa Trey was getting on in years and had started to really value his tin with the grandkids. So, the party to wee Alex back home was a big deal, with pretty much every rtive who could make it showing up. Evangeline''s reputation as the Foster family''s darling had spread far and wide in Avalon City, and all the rtives and friends in the know were psyched to finally meet her.


    That was how Evangeline ended up at the Gordons'', with everyone ecstat


    to see her.


    Alex, the man of the hour, and Walter, her husband in name, stepped out greet her.


    It was a family thing, so Evangeline kept it low-key with her outfit, picking out a ssy white dress and pinning her ck hair up in a neat bun.


    On anyone else, the look might havee off as too grown-up. Evangel She rocked it, her elegance shining through.


    If she usually went for a cute, fresh vibe, today she looked like she had stepped up her game, all grown-up and sophisticated.


    Walter could not help but be struck by Evangeline''s stunning presence.


    overthink it. No matter her reasons, Evie is back with the Gordons. Just focus on how you''re going to make her stay, got it?"


    Walter could not figure out what had driven him away.


    His mind buzzed, thoughts wiped away in an instant, leaving only the image. of Alex and Evangeline,ughing together like they did not have a care in the world.


    Whenever those two were together, the vibe was so chill and cozy, entirely different from the edgy tension that crackled between him and Evangeline.


    Evangeline was his wife, though. How could he stand by while she seemed to care more about Alex than him?


    A wave of anger hit him hard, and the injury he had been dealing with seemed to pulse with fresh pain.


    Grandpa Trey was getting on in years and had started to really value his time with the grandkids. So, the party to wee Alex back home was a big deal, with pretty much every rtive who could make it showing up. Evangeline''s reputation as the Foster family''s darling had spread far and wide in Avalon City, and all the rtives and friends in the know were psyched to finally meet her.


    That was how Evangeline ended up at the Gordons'', with everyone ecstatic to see her.


    Alex, the man of the hour, and Walter, her husband in name, stepped out to greet her.


    It was a family thing, so Evangeline kept it low-key with her outfit, picking out a ssy white dress and pinning her ck hair up in a neat bun.


    On anyone else, the look might havee off as too grown-up. Evangeline? She rocked it, her elegance shining through.


    If she usually went for a cute, fresh vibe, today she looked like she had stepped up her game, all grown-up and sophisticated.


    Walter could not help but be struck by Evangeline''s stunning presence.


    Dressed to the nines, she looked every bit the picture of a perfect, caring wife, yet she still managed to shine brightly with her own unique allure. Clutched in her arms was a giant Winnie the Pooh bear, an odd essory that somehow did not take away from her charm.


    A

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    Chapter 243


    Stepping out of the car, Evangeline''s gazended on Walter. His cheeks were tinged with an odd flush, his face set in a nk mask, lips pressed into a thin line. He had this vibe about him, like he was silently warding off everyone.


    Evangeline figured he must be annoyed by something and made a mental note to steer clear of him at tonight''s family dinner. Their divorce was just around the corner, after all, and there was no point in stirring up emotions. Plus, tonight was all about Alex, the guy she had always looked up to like an older brother. She was not about to let Walter hog the spotlight.


    So, what happened.next was no surprise.


    Walter stood tall and straight, right beside Alex, who was in his wheelchair


    Evangeline, with the Winnie the Pooh bear in her arms, made a beeline for Alex.


    "Alex, it''s been ages!" Her face lit up with a warm smile as she gracefully ced the bear on Alex''sp. "Check out the gift I picked for you. You like it?"


    Evangeline always had these deep conversations with Alex, way more than she ever did with Walter.


    She remembered how little Alex had always dreamed of having a Winnie the Pooh bear as his hero. Back then, he did not have a penny to his name, and the Gordon family elders did not pay him much mind. No one really cared about what he wanted. As he got older, Alex realized how ridiculous it would look for a grown man to be attached to a stuffed animal, so his childhood dream remained just


    that a dream.


    Evangeline, convinced that the perfect gift should strike a chord in someone''s heart, spent the whole afternoon scouring her family''s sprawling mall. In the end, she chose a limited edition Winnie the Pooh plushie.


    Alex, cradling the plushie, could not hide his surprise. It was adorable, but


    Chapter


    with everyone watching, he could not help feeling self-conscious. "Evie, is it really okay for you to give me a stuffed toy?" he asked, a hint of awkwardness in his voice.


    He appreciated Evangeline''s thoughtfulness, but the attention made him squirm.


    "What''s wrong with it?" Evangeline challenged. "No matter how old we get, there''s always a little kid inside us. You''re always so careful with your words and actions. I thought a toy might help you loosen up and rediscover some of that childhood wonder!" Her words flowed with ease, and she even gave the plushie an extra nudge into Alex''s arms.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    The crowd figured it was just Evangeline being her usual high-spirited self, picking out a toy on a whim to amuse Alex. Theyughed it off, praising her for her unique and clever way of thinking.


    Evangeline, feigning concern, gave the plushie a pat and reminded him, " Take good care of it, Alex. It''s my gift to you, after all."


    Her gesture was all about saving Alex from his blushes.


    "Of course, I''ll cherish it," replied Alex, his smile genuine, the earlier embarrassment gone from his eyes.


    Walter, watching from the sidelines, saw something more in their yful exchange.


    Evangeline wasughing away with Walter''s brother, so much so that Walter felt like he was invisible. The sting from his injury mixed with his boiling anger made him more and more cranky. "Are you two done? If so, let''s head inside."


    His voice had a dark edge to it, and if anyone listened real close, they would almost hear his teeth clenching.

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    Chapter 244


    It suddenly hit Evangeline that she had been so caught up in picking out the perfect gift for Alex that she forgot to head inside!


    In the sprawling courtyard of the old Gordon ce, Trey had been parked in his chair for ages, waiting.


    "Evie, it''s been forever since you visited me. I''ve missed you!"


    Trey snagged Evangeline''s hand, his frail, old fingers finding her wrist.


    Underneath her light sleeve, the cool, regal green bracelet sat quietly on her wrist. It was the Gordon family''s prized heirloom, the very thing that marked her as Trey''s chosen granddaughter-inw.


    A few eagle-eyed onlookers caught a glimpse of the bracelet and shot looks of pure envy her way.


    A flicker of emotion crossed Trey''s face. He had always known.


    How could Evangeline''s heart change? How could she even think of leaving the Gordons, or her less-than-perfect grandson?


    This mess was all Walter''s doing. Trey was set onying down thew with that boy and winning his sweet granddaughter-inw back.


    "I''ve missed you too."


    Evangeline was not one for mushy stuff, but with Trey''s warm eyes on her, she felt her own eyes start to water.


    Evangeline was well aware that her split from Walter would hit Trey like a ton of bricks, so she kept it under wraps.


    "Work has been crazy, and I''ve been tied up at the office. But I''ve just brought on a new CEO to lighten the load. Now I''ll have more time to hang out with you."


    She had had this n in her back pocket for a while.


    Divorce or no divorce, Trey would always be her rock, and Alex, her family.


    That was one thing that would never change.


    On one side was this warm, fuzzy vibe, but Walter, the man who had once connected them, might as well have been a ghost.


    Evangeline had not nced his way once, not for a single second.


    Once the family love fest wrapped up, it was time for Alex''s wee bash. IThis material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    While the help was busy dishing out the meal, Evangeline took a nostalgic stroll through the Gordon family home. If the divorce went through, these casual walks would be a thing of the past. Out in a quiet garden nook, she stumbled upon Alex, chilling alone. The teddy bear she had given him was nowhere in sight.


    ��


    "Alex, everyone is here toasting your return. Why are you alone here?" Evangeline sidled up to Alex and plopped down on the wicker chair next to


    him.


    Alex gave her a look that was as deep as the ocean before ying it cool. " I''m all about peace and quiet, you know that."


    In the sprawling Gordon n, if anyone had to pick the one person who truly got Alex, it would be Evangeline, hands down. He only ever spoke his mind when she was around.


    "Sure, loving the quiet is great and all, but at a big family gathering like this, you''re not their kin, yet you''re just sitting right next to Trey waiting for dinner... Don''t you feel weird about it?" She scrunched her brow, all worried about how Alex would look to the


    others.


    The Gordons'' nosy aunts and uncles were all over the ce, and boy, did they love to yap. One wrong move and they would be the hot gossip on their lips.


    Evangeline, about to step out, was not fazed by their bber. Alex was a whole different story.


    "What''s the big deal?"


    Alex just shrugged it off with a grin. "You''re the golden girl, and I''m the odd one out. To that chatty bunch, we''re two peas in a pod. Why sweat it? If I can''t kick back in my own ce, then maybe it''s not even worthing home."

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    Chapter 245


    There was a deeper message in Alex''s words, a yful sort of sadness woven through them.


    Evangeline, thinking about all the events Alex''d been through, felt her heart go out to him big time.


    "I guess you''re right."


    Had Alex not stayed away all these years for the very same reasons?


    She was in the same boat, her heart in pieces thanks to Walter. How could she just forget the things that had nearly broken her, just because of a little warmth?


    Sure, there might be some super forgiving folks out there, but she and Alex? Not a chance.


    "But hey, dinner''s about to hit the table. Aren''t you starving?"


    Her face broke into a beaming smile.


    Years had passed, and Evangeline had be Alex''s ray of sunshine.


    The gloomier Alex got, the brighter she shone, like her own little sun.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Their moods bounced off each other, and that was how they made things better, bit by bit.


    Alex shook his head, and when he turned to look at her, his voice was slow and deliberate, "Evie, what about that job at Avalon University''s music department? Have you given it any thought?"


    The real reason he had shown up at the family dinner was to get Evangeline to say yes to the job.


    Avalon University''s music department was in dire need of someone with Evangeline''s spark and talent to liven things up.


    A wave of guilt washed over Evangeline!


    Ever since herst whirlwind trip to Avalon University, where she missed seeing Alex and left in a hurry, the whole visiting professor thing had slipped her mind. Usually, she had no problem agreeing to Alex''s requests. She could just tweak her schedule and find some time to teach the kids.


    However, Walter''s words of caution echoed in her head.


    Saying yes meant more run-ins with Alex at Avalon University, and if the rumor mill got wind of it, it could spell trouble for both the Gordon and Foster empires. After a lot of thought, Evangeline was leaning toward a no.


    Before she could get a word out, Alex cut in, "I overheard you chatting with Grandpa earlier, mentioning that the Foster Group brought on a CEO to help run things. So, your te''s not as full these days, right? How about dropping by the ssroom to give the kids a lesson? It could be a nice break for you.


    "I haven''t been back long, but I have to say, the students at Avalon University are bursting with energy. They take their music seriously, which is awesome. And the best part? They''re really into pushing their limits to master their craft. "Evie, do you ever think back to our early days?"


    Alex''s voice was just the right volume, soft and soothing, like water gently rippling into Evangeline''s soul.


    Pushing their limits, huh...


    She remembered watching Julia practice the violin, her parents watching with hopeful eyes. Julia was so delicate back then, tiny but as proud as a swan.


    The enchanting sounds that came from that little wooden box, as the bow danced across the strings, sparked a burning curiosity in her young heart.


    She would sit silently and watch Julia y piece after piece, and her love for the violin took root.


    2/


    She figured, being her father''s daughter, he would want her to learn too, but she waited in vain. He never brought it up.


    It was not until her grandfather stepped in and brought her back with him that she finally got her chance to y the v lin.

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    Chapter 246


    Evangeline snapped out of her reverie just in time to catch Alex''s voice, heavy with a sigh. "They remind me so much of us."


    ''Us''?


    If Alex himself said that, it had to be true.


    At that moment, all the negativity, all the whispers and rumors, just did not matter anymore.


    Evangeline felt a rush of excitement as she gave Alex a firm nod. "Maybe I''ll try it out?"


    Since she had parted ways with her old teacher, the violin had been gathering dust. She had not even thought about teaching.


    She was not even sure she could actually teach anyone anything.


    Alex''s face lit up like a Christmas tree. If Evangeline was in, then it was practically a done deal.


    Evangeline was tough as nails and a total perfectionist. She might not have taught before, but with her never-say-die attitude, she was bound to be a hit with the kids.


    "Try it, then. Worst case, I''ll chat with the higher-ups and get you a trial run, no strings attached. Once you''re in the groove, we''ll figure out the next steps.


    Alex was quick on his feet, offering up this win-win n like he had had it up his sleeve the whole time.


    "Alex, you didn''t just cook this up, waiting to spring it on me, did you?"


    Evangeline eyed him with a hint of suspicion. The quick sh of awkwardness in his eyes told her everything she needed to know.


    Caught in the act, Alex just chuckled. "I just can''t wait to see you back in the


    spotlight with your violin."


    He knew he had to switch gears fast or Evangeline might think he was up to something.


    "Let''s not wait for the stars to align. How about we head to the school''s music room after dinner?" Alex suggested with a yful raise of his eyebrow, quickly adding, "Besides, I''ve got to crash at the school dorm tonight anyway."


    "Alright, I''m on your wild ride now. What''s the point in fighting it?" Evangeline rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. She knew exactly why Alex was not staying with the Gordons-no need to ask.


    They locked eyes for a second and then burst outughing.


    Theirughter caught Walter''s attention. His eyes were dark and intense, with red veins that looked like they could shoot fire any moment.


    "Evangeline, that''s way too much!"


    Walter''s hand was balled into a fist inside his sleeve, his anger barely contained as he marched over to them.


    Evangeline checked the time. "Your wee party is about to kick off. We should head back. Grandpa Trey will worry if we''rete."


    Alex paused, then nodded. "Right, let''s wrap this up. We''ve got ces to be."


    They joked andughed, and Evangeline moved behind Alex to push his wheelchair.


    "Okay, okay, we''ll be quick. I did promise you, after all,"


    To Walter, their innocent banter sounded like a conspiracy. He could only think of one reason for a man and a woman to n an outing together-a date. However, did they, his wife and his brother, even acknowledge his existence? Making their ns so openly?This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.

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    Chapter 247


    The anger Walter had been struggling to suppress instantly red up. The excessive heat in his body along with the pain from his wound drove him to furiously confront Alex and Evangeline.


    "Talk about serendipity-my dear wife and dear brother. Can you believe it?" Just me, strolling around with no particr ce to go, and who do I bump into? You two!" The suspicion in Walter''s words was unmistakable.


    Evangeline felt an urge to clear the air, but Walter was not about to let her get a word in. He made a show of scanning their surroundings. "Wow, this spot''s pretty nice, isn''t it? The old Gordon house is bustling today, yet we find ourselves in this quiet little corner, away from the crowd. Quite the find."


    He stepped closer to Evangeline, "Evangeline, my wife, you must''ve picked this cozy spot for us to reconnect, right? After all, Alex has been gone for so long. It''s not like you could stumble upon it by chance." Walterid it on thick with ''my wife,'' a not-so- subtle jab at the awkwardness of her and Alex''s


    situation.


    Evangeline almostughed at his pettiness. She bit back her amusement, though, not wanting to bruise his ego. Honestly, this ''rare'' ce Walter was making such a fuss about? Alex had found it.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Walter''s certainty just showed how headstrong he was! Tired of his games, Evangeline fired back. "Spit it out, Mr. Walter Gordon. If you''ve got something to say, just say it. You''re beating around the bush so much that we''re all lost. Or do you want to waste your breath?" Walter huffed, "Cut the act, Evangeline! Why don''t you just admit why you came back today?"


    "Why did Ie back?" Evangeline could not believe what she was hearing." Didn''t Grandpa invite me back for dinner? What, now because of our uing divorce, I''m not wee in the Gordon family anymore?" She was at a loss for words.


    She had always known Walter could be unreasonable, but to see him lose all


    sense of logic like this left her shaking her head in disbelief.


    It just went to show that staying away from Walter as soon as she walked in was the smart move.


    She had not even tried to stir the pot, and here he was, showing up ready to start something!


    "Don''t y dumb with me. You came back for him, didn''t you?" Walter spat out, pointing usingly, his finger practically jabbing at Alex''s face.


    "Yes." Trey had been clear when he invited her; it was to wee Alex back, To say she returned for him was not a stretch.


    Why was Walter so worked up?


    Evangeline could see that Walter was hell-bent on making a scene, and she was not getting out of this anytime soon. So, she released the handles of the wheelchair, folded her arms, and braced herself for Walter''s next outburst.


    "And what about you?"


    Walter red at Alex. "You came back here because you wanted to see Evangeline, right?"


    Alex, the target of Walter''s fury, had a brief glint of coldness in his gaze, but it vanished so quickly that none caught it.


    He could only offer a helpless smile. "Walter, you''ve already made up your mind as to why I came home. Is there any point in me exining?"

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    Chapter 248


    "Cut the crap. Are you here because of Evangeline or not?" Walter jabbed a finger at Alex''s nose, his voice rising.


    Evangeline stood by, silent and drowning in guilt.


    If she had not tangled with this man who threw around usations without a shred of truth, Alex would never have been treated like this. It was a total injustice!


    It all started because of her. If she had not married Walter, he would not have turned into such an irrational person, and none of this would have happened.


    "That''s enough, Walter!" Evangeline had reached her limit. "Alex is our elder. How can you speak to your brother like that?"


    She could let go of the baseless suspicions and usations from Walter. In her eyes, he was nothing but a lowlife. However, she could not stand by while he criticized Alex. Alex was already under suspicion because of her, and she felt terrible about it. How could she let him suffer even more?


    She did not realize that her defense would strike a nerve with Walter.


    A coldugh escaped him as he red at Alex with venom. "Brother? That''s a title he has to earn. If he wants me to call him brother willingly, he needs to start acting like one!" Sneaking around with his brother''s wife behind his back-did that sound like something a decent brother would do?


    Especially since...


    He knew perfectly well that Evangeline had feelings for Alex.


    "You!"


    Evangeline was so frustrated that she felt like she might faint,


    "Walter, you''re being totally ridiculous. We''re done talking to you!"


    With that, she started to wheel Alex away, but Walter zipped in front of them, blocking their path like a human wall.


    "You''re not going anywhere!"


    "What do you want, Walter?"


    Evangeline was at her wit''s end. She could not fathom why Walter was on their case like a dog with a bone today, refusing to back off. "Leave! I need to talk to Alex!"


    Walter pointed down the path and shouted at Evangeline.


    "What''s so secret between you two that I can''t hear?"


    Evangeline quickly made up an excuse.


    Walter was steaming mad, and with Alex already weak and in a wheelchair, a confrontation would only hurt Alex.


    She could not just walk away now, could she?


    Without a second thought, Walter snapped, "If it''s about you, you obviously


    can''t listen!"


    Evangeline let out a derisiveugh. "If it''s about me, then I definitely need to hear it!"


    They stood there, arguing, their tempers ring and eyes zing. They looked like they might start throwing punches any second.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Alex took a deep breath and let out a sigh. "Stop! Both of you, just listen to me."


    Walter and Evangeline instantly turned to look at Alex.


    "Evie, do as I say, you go first."


    It was clear Walter was not going to drop it. If one of them could get away from this mess, he wanted it to be Evangeline.


    2.2.


    Evangeline''s eyes brimmed with concern as she firmly stated, "I can''t just walk away! Walter''s snapping at everyone like he''s lost it. What if he goes after you when I''m gone?"


    She felt guilty for dragging Alex into the m s between her and her husband. If Alex got hurt because of her, she would owe him big time for the rest of her life.


    Alex gave her a reassuring grin. "You''re worrying over nothing. Walter and I, we''ve been thick as thieves since we were kids. He''s my bro, and I get him. Sure, he''s got a short fuse, but he''s not unreasonable."

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    Chapter 249


    Alex''s voice was a soft murmur, yet it held a quiet strength.


    Evangeline''s anxiety melted away as she listened to him.


    "Head on home. This brotherly beef is ours to sort out. With you here, there are things Walter just won''t say."


    Evangeline let out a huff. Walter had no probl��m spewing nasty words; was there anything he would actually be ashamed to say? Alex had made up his mind, and despite her worries, she could not stay.


    "Alright, I''m heading back then. You... Just take care, okay?"


    ��


    With a heart heavy with worry, Evangeline cast onest nce at Alex before she turned and left without a second thought.


    Suddenly, the sprawling garden felt empty, leaving just Walter and Alex in the dimming light.


    The sky was smudging into twilight, and the garden''s twinkling lights cast their identical faces in a soft glow.


    Alex, silhouetted against the light in his wheelchair, faced the brother who was his mirror image, his heart a swirl of emotions.


    "Now that Evie''s gone, let''s hear it. Whatever you''ve got to say, I''m all ears."


    Walter was Trey''s youngest grandson, the apple of his family''s eye since he was a little kid. Alex, however, was stuck in second ce behind the golden boy of the Gordon n. He could barely catch a break, always living in the shadow of his brother''s shining spotlight.


    It was funny how life worked. Two guys looked alike, but life sure did not treat them the same. Alex was over it. He knew he was on his own, with no one to back him


    up or take his side, so he just got used to stepping aside for Walter. Whenever he yed nice, Walter would just scoff at him.


    "Alex, it''s just us here. You can drop the act and stop pretending," taunted


    Chapter 249 Walter.


    "Me, pretending?" Alex could not believe it. He was the one always bending over backward, and somehow he was the phony?


    When the Gordon Group was on the brink, Alex stepped up to the te, taking on a mess that could have ended in disaster, and he turned it around. A few years down the line, and he would have brought thepany back from the dead, making it rain for the, shareholders and boosting the Gordon family''s reputation in the South big-time


    However, just when he was ready to ride that wave and make some real moves, Walter decided to grow up. Out of the blue, Trey dered that Walter would be the one to take over the family business. Where was Alex when he heard the news? Right in the middle of leading a meeting about thepany''s future, no less!


    In the blink of an eye, Alex went from top dog at Gordon Group to the family''s zero, the ck sheep with not a penny to his name.


    It felt like waking up from a wild dream, only to find out he was still the same young man nobody cared about.


    He could not me anyone, and he did not have the energy for hate. Business? Alex was done with it. He packed up his life and headed


    overseas, ready to start fresh on a journey into teaching.


    "Walter, how am I pretending?" asked Alex, his eyes wide with confusion. He genuinely did not get what he had done to earn such a harsh call-out from the Gordon family''s golden boy.


    "Your whole act is fake! I just don''t have the proof to tear off your mask yet, and that''s on me!" Walter spat out, his dark eyes shing withThis text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    determination. "But don''t worry, I''ll dig it up!"

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    Chapter 250


    "Go ahead." Alex let out a heavy sigh, his gaze dropping to his useless legs.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Fake or not, he was past caring.


    Just then, Walter took a few fiery steps toward Alex, his anger palpable.


    "I''m warning you, keep your distance from Evangeline! She''s still your sister-inw. If you stir up trouble, Grandpa won''t let you off the hook!" Walter''s threats hit home.


    Ever since they were kids, Walter was Trey''s golden boy. Alex was the one always in the hot seat, the one who had to step aside for his little brother. Why, though?


    Why did Walter get to lounge on the Gordon family''s mountain of cash, living the high life, while Alex had to ditch everything and start from scratch in a foreignnd?


    Even though they shared the same face, life had yed favorites in the cruelest of ways.


    "No way!"


    Alex had never felt so sure about anything before. Memories came flooding back, all those times he had backed down, and for what? Absolutely nothing. Here he was, penniless and still putting up with his little brother''s threats. He was done taking it.


    His face was stone-cold, his eyes likesers as he called out to Walter. "You and I both know the real deal about how you and Evangeline got hitched, Walter. No need for me to spell it out, huh?"


    Walter''s face went from pale to ghostly, as if Alex had read his diary out loud.


    "It doesn''t matter. She''s my wife now, and she''s going to stay your sister-inw! Forget about it, I''m never letting Evangeline go."


    1/


    Walter was trying to sound convincing, but deep down, he was a mess.


    He red at Alex, wishing he could turn him to dust with just a look.


    "What''s so special about you, Alex? How on earth did Evangeline end up falling for you?"


    Alex just smirked. "There''s a reason for everything. I''m a catch, so it''s no surprise Evie fell for me. But you? You''re just a stubborn, selfish guy who only cares about his own happiness. The idea of any girl liking you is just...ughable." He had finally let it all out.


    All the bitterness he had for Walter came pouring out in one glorious rush.


    Man, it felt good!


    "Alex, you''re really not yourself today!" Walter narrowed his eyes, taking in the sight of the man who was his mirror image.


    Alex was always the picture of politeness, always so calm and collected. Trey would grumble about Walter when he was not around, wanting him to be more like the patient and nice man Alex was.


    The truth? It was all a show with Alex. He yed the part perfectly, just to get everyone''s sympathy, to have them all feeling sorry for him. Evangeline was the perfect example of someone who had fallen for his act. "What''s the difference, huh? Whatever I turn into, it''s all on you!" Alex snapped back, the sh of defiance in his eyes quickly hidden away.


    Walter burst into a wild, mockingugh. He thought he had finally gotten a glimpse of the real Alex.


    "We''ve been yed! Alex, you''re just a big fat liar, a wolf in sheep''s clothing!" He moved closer to Alex, his piercing eyesnding on the wheelchair beneath him, and he asked with a loaded tone.

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    Chapter 251 Chapter 251


    Curiosity got the better of Walter. "You''re quite the actor, so I have to ask. The wheelchair... is it for real? Or is it just another one of your performances? Let me think..."


    It was like a lightbulb went off in Walter''s head, his eyes sparkling with the thrill of a major eureka


    moment.


    "I get it. You can''t walk, and you''ve been wheeling around like you''re totally helpless. But you m up whenever we ask about your injury. What''s the deal with your legs, huh? You''ve been pulling one over on us, right?" Walter did not even pause for Alex to answer before he dropped his verdict.


    "You went to extreme lengths for a pity party, even letting your legs go to waste. Alex, my man, you y a tough game. I have to hand it to you!"


    However, in a sh, Walter''s eyes took on a predatory glint. He reached out to Alex with an inviting gesture.


    Alex eyed him warily, clueless about Walter''s next move.


    "Let''s make it interesting with a little wager, just between us brothers. You used to sneak around boxing when we were kids, right? So, let''s put boxing on the line.


    "If you win, I''ll divorce Evangeline and get out of her life for good. You lose, and you''re the one who disappears. Stay out of Evangeline''s life forever!"


    Walter wasying it all on the line, facing Alex in his wheelchair. It was more than a bet. It was a quest for the truth, fueled by his deep love for Evangeline.


    He needed to know if his brother, the fragile Alex, was truly ill or if it had all been a lie.


    If Alex was ready to drop the act for Evangeline''s sake, Walter was prepared to let go of his own fixations and wish them a lifetime of happiness.


    If that was not the case, then he would never, ever let that phony Alex get his hands on Evangeline, no matter how much he had to bug him!


    "To make sure no one says I''m picking on a sick guy, I''ll fight you one-handed!"


    Walter announced, tucking his left hand away and squaring off with just his right. "Your move."


    Alex caught his breath, his eyes flickering with a sudden spark. Then he let out a feeble sigh. "Why does it have to be like this, Walter? Don''t you remember? We''re brothers! "And look at me, stuck in this wheelchair, can''t even stand, let alone box with you.


    "Can''t we just chill out? There''s nothing going on with me and Evie."


    His voice was so soft, so pleading, it felt like he could disappear into the air at any moment.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Walter was in no mood for chit-chat. He wanted to wrap this up fast and barked, "Cut the crap!


    Evangeline''s not here to fall for your sob story, and I''m hot buying it either. No more games-let''s do this!" Walter''s right fist zoomed toward Alex''s face.


    Out of nowhere, a furious shout cut through.


    "Walter! Back off!"


    Evangeline leaped in, throwing herself in front of Alex, shielding himpletely.


    She had been back at her seat in the banquet, but the nagging worry about the Walter brothers not returning gnawed at her. She made up some excuse and bolted for the garden. The night wind howled through the early autumn evening, muffling the words between the two men from


    afar.


    However, as she closed in, her heart sank to see Walter''s fist flying at his own brother, Alex.

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    Chapter 252


    "Are you out of your mind?" Evangeline shoved Walter''s iing punch aside, her stunning sea-green eyes wide with shock.


    "Don''t you get it? That''s your brother Alex behind me, and he''s hurt! He can''t move his legs and relies on a wheelchair to get around.


    "Life''s already thrown him enough curveballs. Why are you trying to add to it by getting physical? Picking on your own brother who can''t even defend himself in a wheelchair, what kind of person does that make you?" Walter scowled, waving Evangeline off with a flick of his hand. "This is between me and Alex, step aside!" "No way!" Evangeline stood her ground.


    "If I''ve seen it, I can''t just ignore it. If you''re dead set on going after Alex today, you''ll have to go through me! Knocking me down won''t cut it. You''ll have to knock me out cold, so I can''t get in your way!"


    Walter''s fist paused mid-swing, his eyes sharp with a pain he could not hide.


    His body shook with rage.


    He bit back a growl and asked in a low voice, "Evangeline, are you sure about this?"


    There was a good chance Evangeline was pregnant with his child.


    Even if Walter was furious, how could he ever hit her?


    "Absolutely!" Evangeline did not even blink, her eyes zing with all the loathing she felt for Walter.


    Feeling the weight of her hatred, Walter''s heart twisted in pain, and he suddenly felt like he could break down and cry.


    "You... Alright! I''m out of here!"


    He could not bring himself to hurt Evangeline, no matter what.


    With a dramatic sweep of his arm, Walter stormed out of the garden without a backward nce.


    The chill of the autumn night wrapped around Evangeline as she stood there aloofly, watching Walter''s silhouette blend into the shadows of the garden. It took a moment before she snapped out of it and moved to Alex''s side, her hands gently guiding his wheelchair. The ridiculous argument had fizzled out, leaving only Alex''s soft sigh to dance with the leaves in the breeze.


    "Evie, you know how Walter can be. Why go head-to-head with him? Look at me-I''m already a mess. What''s one more fight going to change?"


    "Anything is better than you two at each other''s throats!"


    Alex''s words were heavy with concern, like a wise old man trying to mend a rift between two stubborn kids.


    However, his words only twisted the knife in Evangeline''s heart. She was not just upset for herself, but for


    Alex, too.


    Tears betrayed her, spilling over despite her best efforts to keep them at bay.


    She tried tough it off, her smile a crooked line that only she knew was hanging by a thread. "It''s all good. We''re splitting up anyway. Who cares about a little spat?"


    Indeed, they were about to part ways for good. Why bother with impressions?


    "But... if you didn''t get into a fight, maybe there''d still be hope for your rtionship."


    Alex got her, just like she got him.


    Evangeline had finally married the guy of her dreams. How could she just let go?


    She would cling to any hope, however faint.


    "Even if there''s hope, I don''t want it!"This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    In the soft glow of the garden lights, Evangeline''s stunning profile was etched with determination.


    "Alex, I''m the one to me..


    "As I walked away earlier, I couldn''t help but wonder if the Walter I''ve been crushing on was just a figment of my childhood imagination-a mere shadow that once painted my dreams with vibrant colors. The real Walter, it turns out, is a world away from the man I dreamed


    up." Chapter 253

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    15 BONUS


    "But it hit me today, when I caught a glimpse of his true colors-I don''t deserve to have a crush on Walter." How could she say she was in love with him if she did not even know what he truly was? It was less like love, and more like she had found a face that fit perfectly with the one in her dreams and convinced herself it was love.


    Alex was in his wheelchair, leading the way, while Evangeline pushed him along, step by step.


    He could not see the look on her face, but the tears that the wind whisked awaynded softly behind his


    ears,


    "Evie, don''t be disappointed," he said.


    Caught in the chilly embrace of the autumn breeze, Alex struggled to find words that couldfort Evangeline and settled for a simple plea.


    "I''ve got a knack for saying the right thing, and trust me, you''re going to find your slice of happiness." Alex tried to sound upbeat."


    Evangeline felt the tug of his quirky constion and could not stay wrapped in her nket of sadness. She mustered a smile to match the upbeat mood.


    "Right, I''m not worried about finding a guy. There''s a sea of them out there! And hey, I''m Evangeline-I''ve got smarts, a solid family background, and youth on my side. Who needs Walter, that jerk, when there are plenty of great guys around?"


    They returned to the party to find the celebration had fizzled out, the key person Alex having vanished for so long.


    Alex, no stranger to such disappointments, packed up without a word, ready to head out.


    Evangeline had nned to head back to the dorm with Alex, but before she could take off, Trey pulled her aside. His face was lined with concern as he asked, "Evie, you didn''t get into a fight with Walter, did you?"


    Evangeline squinted slightly, offering a strained smile. "Fight? Walter and I? No way, what''s there to argue about?"This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Trey had grown visibly oldertely, the stress of her rocky marriage with Walter weighing on him. She cared for Trey deeply, like her own grandfather, and thest thing she wanted was to add to his worries. "But I saw Walter, and he seemed very upset," said Trey, his suspicion clear as he remembered his grandson''s angry face at the banquet.


    Evangeline felt a shiver of anxiety. Trey could spot Walter''s anger a mile away. Why did he not pay that much attention to Alex, the one who never showed up at the banquet? She figured Alex deserved better from Trey. Even so, how could she, a granddaughter-inw, voice such a thing?


    "Maybe thepany ran into some problem that even David, the assistant, couldn''t fix? Grandpa, I mean no disrespect, but you''re not getting any younger. Maybe it''s time to stop fretting over us kids, okay?"


    Her divorce from Walter was a done deal, but she could not bear to hit Trey with that bombshell, so she tried to ease him into the Idea gently.


    "You''re right, Evie. I do need to kick this bad habit," Trey conceded. "But I''ll only be able to rx when I know for sure that you and Walter are truly happy."


    Trey was a seasoned professional; he picked up on what Evangeline was hinting at in a heartbeat andid his cards on the table.


    "You''re really concerned about Walter, huh?" Evangeline yed along with Trey, but Alex''s lonely eyes haunted her thoughts.


    She wondered, if Trey could just spread a little love Alex''s way, would he shake off that gloom?

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    Chapter 254


    "Absolutely, Walter''s my top grandson!" Trey''s eyes lit up with pride at the mention of Walter.


    "Grandpa, you''ve got seven grandsons. What''s so special about Walter?"


    Alex probably wanted to get to the bottom of that question, too.


    Trey pondered, "Out of all of them, only the oldest and Walter take after me the most. But Walter''s got his differences; he''s often not tough enough. Once he''s older, runs thepany longer, and sees more of the world, he''ll get it." Walter... was not tough enough?


    Evangeline recalled Walter throwing punches at Alex in the garden without a second thought.


    It hit her then that she was clueless about the Gordon family''s hardcore way of raising kids. Walter''s scary transformation had plenty to do with the Gordons'' survival-of-the-fittest style. Thinking this over, Evangeline was not sure who to me anymore.


    However, it would not be long until Walter would not be her problem. All she had to do was make sure her own kid did not end up in the Gordons'' clutches...


    "Grandpa, it''s gettingte. I should head out," said Evangeline, excusing herself.This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Before Evangeline could get her words out, Trey jumped in with a guess.


    "Headed to bed?"


    His eyes sparkled, and heunched into a spiel, "Okay, okay, you kids were busy all day, it''s totally normal to crave some extra sleep. No need to be embarrassed about it with me." Evangeline''s eyes popped wide open in astonishment.


    When had she ever mentioned wanting to sleep? She was trying to get away from the Gordons and head home, for crying out loud!


    She tried to set the record straight, but Trey was not having any of it.


    "Since I knew you''d being back to sleep here tonight, I had your and Walter''s room spruced up nice and early. Why don''t you check it out, see if they''ve changed anything? And if something''s not to your liking, just tell me. I''ll take care of it!" Evangeline was at a loss for words.


    She finally understood that Trey was off in his own little world, tuning out anything that did not fit his


    garrative.


    "Evie, I''m not getting any younger, see, my hair''s gone all white. You and Walter better make things work, or I''ll never rest in peace!"


    Trey''s voice was heavy with emotion, and he even dabbed at a tear in front of Evangeline.


    She was a soft-hearted person deep down, and Trey''s guilt trip worked like a charm. She practically waved the white g on the spot.


    She swallowed her protests and let out a meek hum in response.


    Like a good girl, she went back to her room.


    Staring at the utterly unchanged room, Evangeline was bbergasted.


    She had to hand it to him-old Trey was still sharp as a tack!


    Trey knew just how to y Evangeline''s tender heartstrings, making sure she could not bring herself to turn him down. With a mix of sweet talk and sly tricks, he convinced her to ditch her ns to return to the Foster family, setting her up for a night alone with Walter. Evangeline''s thoughts were a whirlwind when it came to Walter. She was torn, unsure of how to feel about him. She genuinely liked him, especially after all he had done for Alex, but she could not deny the seed of dislike that was starting to sprout.


    It seemed like Walter had a sixth sense about Trey''s meddling because he did note home that night. After telling her uncle about her ns and freshening up, it was already eleven o''clock. Walter was nowhere to be seen, and frankly, Evangeline relished the quiet. She locked the door, dried her hair, and copsed onto the bed, her eyelids heavy with sleep.

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    25 BONUS


    Out of nowhere, the sweet melody of her phone''s ringtone snapped Evangeline back to reality. She stared at the name dancing on the screen, hesitated for just a second, and then epted the call.


    "Make it quick, and don''t mess with my downtime!" She was not in the mood for Walter''s rambling and made that clear right off the bat.


    To her surprise, it was not Walter''s voice on the other end.


    "Evangeline, do you always boss around Mr. Walter Gordon like this?" Caden''s voice came through,ced with an awkward chuckle. Evangeline''s lips quirked up in a half-smile.


    one to catch it?


    Was it fate that the first time she flexed her muscles with Walter, Caden had to be the one


    "Spit it out."


    She hadid down thew, and Caden was not about to forget it.


    Evangeline maintained her cool facade, determined to show nothing but ice.


    Evangeline''s words snapped Caden back to reality, and he could hear the panic creeping into the voice on the other end of the phone.


    "Uh, Evangeline, I''m at Kronovia Royale Pub with Mr. Walter Gordon. He''s been in a foul mood, knocking back drinks like there''s no tomorrow, and now he''s running a fever, I think. Can youe and help me get him home?"


    "Can''t he make it back on his own?" Evangeline asked, her patience wearing thin.


    She had zero tolerance for people who hit the bottle every time life threw a curveball, especially Walter, who was notorious for trying to push people around.


    Caden took a look at Walter, who was slumped against his shoulder, and said, "He''s... not in the best shape to do that. Plus, I''m pretty sure he''s got a fever." Caden could feel the heat radiating off Walter and knew it was not good.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Evangeline did not want to care about what happened to Walter, but the mention of a fever tugged at her heartstrings. Infections could spike a fever, could it not?


    Walter had been neglecting his healthtely. What if his recklessness had led to an infection?


    The thought brought an image of a tear-stricken Trey. She sighed. Fine, she would go. Her heart was just too darn soft.


    If she did not, and Walter''s condition took a nosedive, Trey would be the one pacing the floor with worry. She could not let that happen, not on her watch.


    At Kronovia Royale Pub, in the swanky VIP room reserved for Avalon City''s elite, Walter and Caden were the center of attention. Girls swarmed around them, vying for the attention of the city''s most notorious bad boy, as if they were nothing more than ythings at his fingertips.


    +25 BONU!


    Walter was acting entirely out of character, weing any girl who walked through the door with open arms and a roving hand, no matter what they looked like.


    Even Caden, who had seen his fair share of wild scenes, turned red at Walter''s shameless antics.


    This was embarrassing!


    His childhood buddy was out to have a good time with some girls, and here he was, calling his friend''s wife toe get him, while he had to stand by and watch him hit on other women?


    The real worry for Caden was what he could say to Evangeline when she showed up and saw the scene that was one step away from being adults-only.


    It seemed Caden did not have to exin a thing.


    Evangeline raced to the VIP room, and by the time Caden cracked the door open, she had already taken in the whole show.


    A mix of women, each with their own look, all fawning over one man who seemed to be on top of the world


    That man was none other than Walter, whom Caden had imed was having a fever.

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    Chapter 256


    Evangeline''s gaze hardened into a look that could kill, though clearly not meant for Caden. After all, without his heads-up, she would not have found Walter so fast.


    All she wanted was to cut off Walter''s manhood, to save him from his mess..


    Then it hit her-Walter''s outrageous behavior was meant for her to see.


    A live show from Walter of the Gordon family was not something she could stumble upon every day. If she caught it on video and posted it online, would she not rake in a whole bunch of new fans? Evangeline did not hesitate and reached for her phone, but in the few seconds she had been lost in thought, the lively room had emptied out. Caden had slipped away when she was not looking. With that, the once noisy space was eerily silent, with just Evangeline and Walter left.


    Walter somehow found the energy to sit up from the couch, but he was so weak he ended up leaning heavily against Evangeline''s shoulder. Evangeline gave a firm shrug. "Walter, snap out of it! If you want to sleep, go home!"N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    She was no match for Walter''s size. If he was out cold, there was no way she could drag him home without copsing herself.


    "Huh?" Walter''s eyes fluttered open after being jostled. His normally piercing eyes had turned dull and clouded with the fog of alcohol. Then, his gazended on Evangeline and he cracked a wide, drunken grin. "Haha," heughed, reaching out and getting handsy with her, slurring his words, "Out of all the girls tonight, you''re the prettiest..."


    He had the nerve to pinch her cheek, mumbling, "Ah, such nice skin, I like it a lot." His hand then wandered to Evangeline''s clothes, tracing her silhouette through the fabric.


    Evangeline was having none of it. She grabbed his wandering hand and yanked it away. "Cut it out, Walter! *She was not about to let Walter push her around.


    Evangeline had no reason to hold back with Walter acting like this. She nudged him back onto the couch. and quickly felt his forehead for a fever.


    If Walter''s fever was from an infection, they were in for a rough time.


    His forehead was burning up, and she almost pulled away, but it reminded her that Walter was sick and needed care-especially since he got hurt saving her.


    Feeling a mix of guilt and annoyance, she could not believe he was so careless about his injury. At the same time, she also felt sorry for him, feverish and stubborn about not going home. "You''re such a troublemaker."


    Walter gave a goofy grin, his hand boldlynding on Evangeline''s chest, murmuring like he was in a dream, "Feels amazing."


    Out of nowhere, he found the strength to grab Evangeline''s chin, his eyes turning a feverish red, his look so intense as if he was trying to see right through her.


    Evangeline was still trying to figure out what he was up to, not keeping still even though he was drunk.


    What was his deal?


    "You''re gorgeous. Be my wife," blurted Walter, catching Evangeline off-guard as he went for a kiss. Luckily, Evangeline dodged just in time, and the kiss meant for her lipsnded on her cheek instead.

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    Chapter 257


    "What''s gotten into you?"


    Evangeline snapped, but Walter''s bold proposal reyed in her mind, hard to shake off. Seeing Walter''s silly, expectant grin, she suddenly felt a yful urge to mess with him. Considering Walter was usually like a ticking bomb, who would have ever dared to tease himN?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Things were different. Walter, with his goofy, drunken grin, was just too adorable.


    "Walter, you said you''re going to marry me, right? Is that for real?" She boldly pinched Walter''s ear, her tone dripping with confidence.


    In the past, she would not have dared to be so forward,


    Walter would not remember a thing tomorrow though, so she had nothing to worry about.


    "Yep!" Walter nodded eagerly, like a kid waiting for Evangeline to hand over �� piece of candy. He was just too cute!!


    His good looksbined with that expression made Evangeline''s heart turn to mush. She stroked her chin, feigning indifference, and asked, "So, what''s good about you, huh?" "Good about me?" Walter''s eyes clouded with a mist, making him look all innocent and clueless. "Let me tell you, the line of guys after me could stretch from here to Fifth Street in Avalon City. If you don''t have anything going for you, why on earth would I pick you out of all these top-notch choices?" Walter''s face lit up with understanding. "Yep, you''re gorgeous, and it makes sense you''ve got admirers. But..."


    He opened his hands, staring at his empty palms, and his lips turned into a pitiful pout. "I''ve got nothing, what do I do?"


    "Well, tough luck then." Evangeline sighed, half-serious, half-amused.


    She wished she could capture Walter''s look of utter defeat and keep it forever. Whenever she would feel down, that expression would surely brighten her day.


    Yes, she had said those crushing words on purpose, to knock him down a peg and watch him squirm.


    "If you''re no better than the rest, you''ve got no edge. I''m not an idiot, why would I pick you?"


    She kept the pressure on, watching Walter''s reaction.


    Walter fell silent, lost for words.


    Evangeline thought their chat was over, but out of nowhere, Walter''s hand mped down on hers.


    "Marry me, okay? I swear I''ll work my tail off and make tons of cash for you to blow..."


    Evangeline could not help but smirk. ''Guys are all the same,'' she thought.


    Even stered, Walter had not lost his touch with thedies, and the worst part? He was still good at selling dreams.


    "Big deal, working hard. So I can marry you and scrape by?"


    "No way, no way," Walter shot back, his face twisting with a flicker of pain. "I couldn''t stand to see you


    T


    $ngle. Wait, I remember... I''m sure I had a boatload of r


    Evangeline could tell Walter was a total mess. He probably did not even remember his own name.


    She did not care, though. A clueless Walter was way more amusing.


    As Walter started to thump his head, Evangeline stopped him, her voice dripping with irony," Remembering is useless. Look at your hands." She jabbed at Walter''s empty palms and snorted, "You''re broke, buddy. Quit the act!"


    Walter''s face fell, and he grabbed Evangeline''s wrist, defiant.


    "I don''t care, you''re my girl now. You''re not allowed to fall for anyone else but me!"


    Chapter

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    Chapter 258


    Walter''s im was fierce and bossy. His eyes, red and piercing, locked onto Evangeline as if she belonged to him and him alone. Evangeline froze, her heart skipping a beat.


    How much better would things be if Walter said these words when he was sober? Life never dealt in what-ifs though.


    Evangeline''s eyes fell, and a pang of guilt hit her. She had not meant to tease Walter, not really. She wanted to see him stumble a bit, but somehow, she was the one who ended up getting hurt.


    She swatted Walter''s hand away with a sharp smack and barked out hermand. "Can you walk or not? If you can, then get yourself home-now!"


    The clock had already struck eleven, deep into the night.


    Evangeline checked the time and, with a heavy sigh, decided to change course. Trey, with his years piling up, would worry himself sick if he knew Walter was very intoxicated.


    She was not nning on bringing Walter to her ce either.


    Mulling over her options, Evangeline let out a sigh and picked a path at the crossroads, her car zipping. into the night.


    Walter was something else. me it on the booze, but the guy who could not stop bbering about how he would work his tail off once they were married, how they would have a bunch of kids, even going so far as to n his dad-to-be parenting strategy-had conked out in under five minutes t.


    Pulling up to Crystal Waters House, Evangeline stepped out and opened the back door, only to find Walter asleepThis material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    In sleep, Walter''s usual sharp edges softened. His handsome features, usually so stern-those deep eyes," high nose, and striking eyes-seemed gentle, almost as peaceful as a baby''s. Evangeline had never really seen Walter like this before.


    He was the kind of man who was always up with the sun and would dove into work. He would always be the first to greet the morning. Not this time, it seemed.


    "Walter,e on, snap out of it. We''re home!" She gently tapped his cheek, trying to rouse him.


    He blinked slowly, his eyes clouded with confusion. "Home?"


    In a sh, he sat up, taking in the sight of Crystal Waters House just a stone''s throw away


    Evangeline could tell by the look in his eyes that he had shaken off the fog of sleep-or whatever it was- during the ride home.


    She decided to file away the night''s events as nothing more than a sweet dream.


    ""Let''s get you up, time to crash."


    She helped Walter to his feet, but no sooner had they stepped inside than he mumbled something about needing a bath.


    Walter was a stickler for cleanliness, and Evangeline knew better than to argue. She got the bath ready.


    then left him to it and flopped back on the bed to lose herself in some videos.


    She was having a st until she nced at the clock and realized it was way past midnight.


    She frowned, puzzled. Walter was taking forever for his bath.


    Evangeline hopped out of bed and knocked on the bathroom door, a bit worried. "Walter? Are you okay there?"


    Only the sound of water answered her. No sign of Walter''s voice.


    It was then she recalled Walter had been burning up with a fever at the bar.


    Kicking herself for forgetting, she flung open the bathroom door.


    There he was, sprawled out in the tub, the water still warm, fast asleep with his head resting at the edge.


    Evangeline rushed to his side and felt his forehead. It seemed a little cooler than before, at least.


    If Walter did not get out of that tub soon, he was bound to catch a cold by morning.

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    Chapter 259


    Evangeline found Walter snoozing away nude. There was no way she could haul him into bed all by myself.


    "Walter,e on, wake up! If you want to sleep, do it in your room, in a proper bed!"


    Walter blinked his eyes open, all dazed. What he saw was Evangeline looking down at him with this weird, worried expression.


    Was he still dreaming? Or maybe he was thinking about the wrong person?


    They had just had a massive blow-up, so why on earth would Evangeline be fussing over him?


    He could not believe it and his eyes went wide, his throat bobbing.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "E-Evangeline?"


    "Who else? Get a move on, will you?"


    Evangeline gave him an eyeroll for the ages, all the while grumbling to herself.


    "I must''ve been in your debt in a past life or something. It''s the middle of the night and I''m not at home sleeping, but out at a bar picking up a lush like you! Only a total brain glitch would make me do something this dumb!" Evangeline, with her slim arms, tried to drag Walter with all the strength she could muster, but he would not budge.


    Running out of patience, she gave Walter a smack on the back.


    "Can''t you try a little harder? You''re a big guy, don''t you realize that? How am I supposed to get you out if you don''t even try to move?" Evangeline e was rough, sure, but Walter did not get mad. Not even a bit.


    "Oh."


    He looked all kinds of sorry for himself and finally put some muscle into it, working with Evangeline''s tugging.


    Together, they managed to get him halfway up. If he could just nt his feet on the bottom of the tub, he would be able to stand.


    As it often happened, things did not always go to n.


    Walter had a bit too much to drink, and his coordination was off, not to mention the bathtub was as slippery as ice.


    "Whoa!" he yelped as his foot slipped, and he tumbled back into the tub.


    He was not the only one making a ssh. Evangeline, who had been trying to fish him out, got pulled in


    too.


    Evangeline felt gravity yank her down, and before she knew it, she was soaked to the skin.


    The


    withic of nearly drowning hit her like a wave, and she shot her head above water, only to lock eyes


    Walter''s intense gaze.


    He had that look-the one that screamed his brain was on a one-way trip to fantasynd.


    She followed his stare and got why he was so out of it. She had ditched her bulky coat forfort, leaving her in a thin white shirt that. It was no big deal when dry, but when wet... It left nothing to the imagination. Eves off...


    "Pervert! palm smacked Walter''s cheek as her heart hammered in her chest.


    Walter was all fired up, just like thatst time, and if he tried anything, she doubted she could stop him.


    His hand, hot as a stove,tched onto her wrist. Walter''s dark eyes drilled into hers, and without thinking. his lips edged closer to hers.


    The second their lips met, Walter''s jittery heart found peace.


    Then, his breathing turned ragged, and his touch grew wilder without him even realizing it.


    The fire raging within him grew wilder by the second. All he could think about was taking the woman in front of him, making her his,pletely and utterly.


    Evangeline was yanked into the bathtub against her will, her ability to breathe snatched from her. She was groggy, powerless to stop Walter''s every whim. Chapter 260

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    Chapter 260


    As Walter''s kisses became more intense, Evangeline''s will to fight back kicked in. Panicked, she reached out and gave Walter a fierce pinch under his arm.


    They sprang apart as if shocked by a bolt of electricity. Walter''s dark eyes locked onto her, his breathsing in heavy gasps. It was only then that Evangeline noticed her shirt buttons had been undone without her realizing it, her chest boldly on disy for Walter. "Walter, are you an animal? Is there nothing else in your head but this?" Evangeline was livid. Despite being sick and drunk, he just would not keep it together. What made her blood boil was how she herself had been so rattled by his kiss that she nearly lost all sense of reason!


    That little scuffle seemed to snap Walter out of it. He thought about their earlier fight, about Alex, the elephant in the room, and found himself at a loss for words.


    Walter was not one to trouble himself, so he silently stepped out of the tub. He dried off, slipped into a robe, and copsed onto the bed, his movements fluid as if the fiery encounter had never happened, as if Evangeline was never even there.


    Once Evangelineposed herself and stepped out of the bathroom, Walter was already fast asleep. Wounded, drunk, and exhausted from the night''s drama, he waspletely spent...


    Evangeline ran her fingers through Walter''s damp hair and, with a sigh of resignation, pulled out a quiet hairdryer, plugged it in, and started drying his hair.


    Her gentle hands worked through his hair, her fingers like ab, softly stroking until his hair waspletely dry. Only then did she stop.


    She felt like she owed Walter that much.


    Despite him being the kind of guy that could make the heavens rage with his awfulness, she could not help but feel a pang of tenderness for him.


    She figured that once they were divorced, she would not have the chance to care for Walter like this again.


    For the time being, she would do her duty as his wife.


    After stowing the hairdryer, Evangeline grabbed the first aid kit and cautiously peeled back the nket from Walter''s body.


    He was in great shape, his abs subtly defined. He was muscr but not intimidating, exuding a strong presence


    However, Evangeline''s gaze was drawn to a two-centimeter knife wound below his belly button.


    She had seen Walter''s injuries before, but they always took her breath away.


    That Lydia was vicious. If Evangeline had taken that stab, with her slight build, she would have died. She expertly applied antiseptic with a cotton swab to the wound, which Walter had managed to aggravate to the point of near-pus formation. That exined why he had a fever.


    After rebandaging the wound and checking his temperature while he slept, Evangeline finally rxed


    when she saw the numbers were back to normal.


    The night had stretched on, and after a day filled with restless energy, Evangeline was tired. Sheid to Walter and quickly drifted off into a deep slumber.


    She was out like a light, and if her internal clock had not betrayed her, she might have slept in until the sun was way up in the sky.


    The moment her eyes flickered open, she caught Walter giving her this intense, loaded look.


    "What''s up with you?"


    Evangeline jolted upright, making sure to yank the covers up to her chin in a snug cocoon.


    "What could I possibly be doing? You''re freaking out over nothing."This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.

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    Chapter 261


    Walter grumbled, clearly annoyed.


    "Come on, you wake up to someone staring you down and you''re telling me you wouldn''t freak out?" Evangeline was fuming. Not only was Walter not owning up to his odd behaviors, but he was also calling her out for being jumpy!This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    "If you''ve done nothing wrong, you''ve got nothing to fear, right? What''s so scary about a little stare?" Walter retorted nonchntly, but then he casually let his bathrobe fall open in front of Evangeline.


    "Evangeline, I need a good exnation for this!"


    Evangeline was about to shield her eyes from Walter, the sher, but his words stopped her cold. She had to see what he was getting at


    Pointing a finger at the marks on his tempting neck, Walter did not mince words, "What''s the story with these marks? You know exactly what I''m talking about, don''t you? I was with you the whole night, so I think you owe me some answers about what you did when I was out coldst night!"


    Evangeline''s eyes widened as she followed the direction of the pointed finger. The mark was a bit fuzzy around the edges, but the center was a deep, unmistakable pink, silently stamped on Walter''s skin, hinting at something more than friendly.


    The image of Walter, the center of attention at the bar, shed through her mind. Her initial shock quickly turned into a wave of scorn. "What have I done to you? Walter, before you start using, maybe take a long, hard look in the mirror. Do you really think you''ve got one of those drop-dead gorgeous faces that girls just can''t resist?"


    Walter''s eyebrows danced upwards with pride. "Are you saying my face... Isn''t exactly that?"


    He paused, a tease in his voice, and Evangeline could not help but get caught up in the thought. Admittingly, there was something about Walter''s face that was downright maic. His words were like a featherweight boxer knocking out a heavyweight, and Evangeline felt a pang of defeat. But she was not about to give up.


    "Sure, you''re handsome. But that doesn''t mean I''d ever fall for you!"


    Walter,pletely ignoring Evangeline''s feelings, went straight for the jugr. "Then who was the one who was so desperate to marry me?"


    "Alright, alright." Evangeline realized she was no match for Walter in this argument and decided to just let it all out. "Yes, I was the one who wanted to marry you, but that was then!


    "Me, now? I couldn''t care less about you. Why would I ever do something like that?"


    The thought of stealing a kiss from a sleeping Walter popped into her head, and a twinge of regret hit her. She had the perfect chancest night, so why did she not go for it? "So what''s the deal with this...?"


    Walter was sure Evangeline was the type to hit and run or ''act first, denyter. So he yed it cool, waiting for her to trip up and reveal her true colors.


    Evangeline was not having any of it. She red at him frostily and said, "Mr. Walter Gordon, didst night''s party slip your mind? Caden''s such a loyal friend, isn''t he? He didn''t know your type, so he invited a whole lineup-every shape and size-just for you to pick and choose. And when you got too wasted to handle it, who do you think he called? Me."


    Meanwhile, Caden, chilling at home, felt his nose twitch.


    Was Evangeline bad-mouthing him?


    He only called those girls over because he could not say no to Walter. He would swear on the stars that he was not trying to get Walter to chase skirts!


    If that was his n, why bother calling Evangeline to fetch Walter? He would have just let the night roll on without him.

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    Chapter 262


    25 BONUS +25


    Walter''s brow was a battlefield of creases. Something about Evangeline''s story did not add up. However, the memories ofst night were like a movie on repeat in his head, and he could not argue with the yback. Was he really going to confess that seeing Evangeline and Alex all lovey-dovey made him so mad that he dragged Caden out to find somepany?


    He stood up and faced himself in the mirror, staring at the marks on his neck with a mix of anger and


    nausea.


    This woman who dared to mark him-she was in for it!


    "Enough, let''s eat," he said, dropping the subject.


    Walter knew he was at fault and decided to let it go.


    Evangeline was not interested in rehashing the night either. Actually, she did not want to speak to Walter at all, not one single word.


    Evangeline''s stomach rumbled as she finished freshening up. She had nned to slip away quietly, but the delicious smells wafting from the dining room rooted her to the spot.


    Walter set thest dish on the table and, with a swift motion, pulled out a chair for her.


    "You''re trying for a baby, you can''t skip breakfast! I''ve cooked it all, so just try a little, okay?"


    They had been living together for a while, yet Walter still was not quite sure what Evangeline liked to eat. He made a mental note of her usual favorites and hoped for the best. Sitting down, Evangeline was greeted by a tableden with dishes that were a feast for the eyes and nose, stirring a whirlwind of emotions within her.


    She knew all too well about Walter''s culinary magic. Thest time she had enjoyed his homemade dishes was thanks to Trey''spany.


    This time, it was all for her.


    If this were a happier time, when she dreamed of a blissful life with Walter, this meal would have brought her to tears.


    With their paths about to diverge, his kindness only made leaving more difficult.N?velD(ram)a.?rg owns this content.


    Even then, what was the point of staying?


    The past''s shadows loomedrge, and Walter''s heart belonged to Julia. When would it be her turn for happiness?


    She had already gambled and lost once; she would not stumble in the same spot again.


    A first mistake could be chalked up to naivety, but a second would be unforgivable.


    Without touching the cutlery, Evangeline stood up. "Thanks for breakfast, Walter, but I''ve got to head back.


    She had ns to meet Alex at Avalon University''s Music Department today, a promise made the night before.


    Crystal Waters House was a good distance from Avalon University. Even if she were to leave at this moment, she might not make it in time for the meetup they had nned. "Doesn''t hit the spot, huh? Not in the mood for a single bite?"


    Walter was shocked and irked. He had cooked up all of Evangeline''s favorites, at least the ones he remembered her loving. How could she not be tempted by any of them? "Yes."


    It did not really matter if the food was good or not. She just did not want to eat anything Walter made, did not want anything to do with him, period.


    "Fine, where to? I''ll drive you and grab you some breakfast on the way."


    ''I''ll get my own."


    Walter''s nosiness was getting on her nerves.


    "You might buy it, but that doesn''t mean you''ll eat it. We''re trying for a baby, and I won''t be at ease unless I see you actually eat."


    Walter''s stubbornness almost made Evangeline crack up.


    The guy was a natural-born actor, slipping into roles at the drop of a hat. There was not even a peep from the ''baby'' in her belly, and here he was, already lost in his daddy-to-be act... If he wanted to live in a fantasy, why not y along?


    "I''m heading to the music department at Avalon University. Are youing?"


    Evangeline gave him a look that said more than words ever could.

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    Chapter 263


    Alex was on the staff at Avalon University, something Walter was well aware of, so Evangeline braced herself for his blowup.


    Against all odds, Walter did not even bat an eysh. "Sure, let''s go together. I''ll give you a lift."


    "No need, I wouldn''t want to hold you up from work. How awkward would that be?" Evangeline declined with a mocking smile.


    Little did he know, she was kicking herself on the inside.


    Evangeline could not believe she had gotten herself into this mess, allowing Walter to weave himself into her day.


    If Walter drove her to school and ran into Alex, would that not spark another epic showdown?


    11


    However, Walter did not seem to think it was a big deal and casually remarked, "No trouble at all, it''s on my way!


    Evangeline racked her brain''but could not make sense of it. The music campus of Avalon University and the Gordon Group''s headquarters were inpletely different directions. How on earth could Walter have the nerve to imi I was on his way? However, after they grabbed breakfast together and reached Avalon University, Evangeline''s confusion cleared in an instant. The university''s chancellor, dressed to the nines, stood tall and proud at the entrance as if he was expecting someone special. Before Walter could even step out of the car, the chancellor was already striding over to them.


    Walter got out with ease, and in a swift turn, found the chancellor''s hand outstretched before him.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, a warm wee to Avalon University!"


    A group of people stood behind the benevolent-looking chancellor, and at his signal, they burst into a weing cheer so spectacr that it defied description.


    Evangeline was rooted to the spot, utterly dumbfounded.


    At that moment, she finally connected the dots.


    Walter had not been making up a reluctant excuse to drive her. He really was headed this way!


    At the school gates, a lively celebration was underway for Avalon University''s academic lecture and exchange event.


    So, Walter was the VIP the school had rolled out the red carpet for to swap stories?


    Evangeline''s own hunch made her jump.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    Then she caught Walter''s chit-chat with the principal.


    "I''m super thankful for the invite to speak. Avalon University is where I got my start, and giving a speech here is the least I can do."


    The chancellor was so touched that he looked like he was about to cry.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re a true gem, you know that? Making it big and still remembering where your came from, it gets me right here..." He spoke with a sincerity that was almost humbling. Evangeline''s lips quirked.


    Was this not the same chancellor of Avalon University who was rumored to be a total tyrant, never giving anyone the time of day? If she had not double-checked his ID, she would have thought she had the wrong guy. Right then, Evangeline was even more convinced of the old saying: money talks.


    Was the principalying it on thick for Walter just over a simple talk?


    The school was buzzing, and the ssroom where Walter was set to speak was jam-packed. Evangeline tried to get a glimpse of Walter in action, but the crowd was like a wall of bricks. She had no luck getting through, so she bailed. While she was hanging by the door, trying to hit up Alex, a familiar face zipped past.


    Like magic, the jammed ssroom parted like the Red Sea for thisdy. Evangeline, trailing behind, an eyeful.


    She knew her in a heartbeat.


    That was Minnie, the star pupil Alex had brought back from overseas.


    got


    In the bustling crowd, Minnie made her way to Walter, one deliberate step at a time, and took a seat right next to him. Her lips, perfect and alluring, lifted into a captivating smile. "Mr. Walter Gordon, it''s been ages..."

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    Chapter 264


    "Fancy seeing you here, Ms. Kast."


    Walter, perched at the podium, raised an eyebrow. "Though, it hasn''t really been that long since west saw each other, has it?"


    Minnie''s eyes sparkled, a yful light swirling within them, her gaze glistening as if touched by dew. Even then, she pretended to be utterly serious as she replied, "Really? Then why does it feel like an eternity to me?" She propped her chin on her hands, elbows resting on the table, gazing at Walter with feigned naivety.


    Walter was taken aback.


    He was no stranger to flirtation due to his family''s status, but Minnie''s boldness and exuberance were something else entirely. Driven by curiosity, Walter decided to y along, asking with a hint of mischief, "And how long would that be, in your mind?" Their yful banter sent a current of flirtatious energy through the air, almost tangible enough to touch.


    The college students around them, all too familiar with the rollercoaster of romance, let out a collective, knowing chuckle.


    It was this very sound that caught Evangeline''s attention. Standing at the doorway, she leaned in just enough to catch a glimpse of the electric exchange between Minnie and Walter, thanks to the path the students had cleared. "Walter, you really are something..."


    Evangeline''s hand balled into a tight fist, the urge to throw a punch at Walter''s smug face overwhelming


    her.


    Especially after this morning, when he had been so attentive, preparing breakfast for her. Upon noticing she had not eaten, he even went out of his way to share a meal at her favorite breakfast joint, but then this came along? He had barely turned around before he was flirting with Minnie!


    What did that say about him? It screamed that Walter was the same old guy.


    When Julia was still here, he chased Evangeline away.


    Julia was out of the picture, and Minnie was on the scene, but guess what? He still did the same to Evangeline.


    His every move was just to impress the crowd.


    Out of nowhere, aforting handnded softly on Evangeline''s hand.


    "Evie, you okay?" Alex, parked in his wheelchair, caught Evangeline''s scowl and quickly checked in with


    her.


    Evangeline snapped out of it, relieved to see Alex.


    She had been so mad that she did not even know how wild she must''ve looked. She might have scared someone off with that face, but if it was Alex, no worries.


    "It''s nothing, Alex. Did you wrap up everything on your end?"


    This was the big academic exchange at Avalon University. Alex, the music department''s newest star professor, was about to show off in a demo ss. It was his chance to impress the students and pave way for the school to use his newfound fame for future enrollments. the


    "Pretty much. I''ve got everything set for the demo ss, and we''ve got about thirty minutes to kill. Do your want to hang out at our spot until it starts?" "Yeah, let''s go."


    Evangeline did not hesitate and wheeled Alex out.


    As they exited, she could not help but puzzle over something. Had Walter reallye to Avalon University for the demo without giving Alex a heads-up?


    if he knew, why had he not mentioned it to her?


    The music department''s demo ssroom was a cut above the rest.


    In other sses, teachers just needed to stand up front and click through their slideshows. In the music department, it was a whole different show with all sorts of instruments taking the stage. That was why the music ssroom had this cool arc-shaped stage instead of a boring old podium, and the rest of them got to sit around it like they were at a concert.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Alex strolled in with Evangeline in tow and plopped her down right in the front row.


    And then, it was showtime.

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    Chapter 265 Chapter


    265This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    Alex took the stage, and as expected, he was ster. His lesson was like a chain of fireworks, each part setting off the next, totally mesmerizing everyone. They clung to every word, and every so often, one could hear someone let out a ''wow". It was during this ss that Evangeline found out Alex was not just a violin virtuoso-he was a wizard on the piano and saxophone too.


    She let out a little embarrassed chuckle. She supposed she did not know Alex as well as she thought.


    Just as she was getting lost in Alex''s epic talk, her phone had to go and ruin the vibe, ring out of her pocket.


    The magic spell was broken, and all eyes darted to Evangeline.


    That was when it hit her-her phone was the culprit.


    She was here to learn, and she entirely forgot to silence her phone!


    Feeling her face heat up, she mumbled a ''sorry'' to Alex and bolted from the room..


    Out in the hallway, Evangeline took out her phone and saw that Holden had been trying to reach her like crazy.


    He had called a bunch of times, so it had to be something important.


    "Uncle, what''s going on?" She flipped through her call log as she talked.


    Big mistake. The chill that ran down her spine told her this was no ordinary call.


    Her call log showed calls from all five of her uncles. It had to be something major for them to all call like


    that.


    On the other end of the line, her uncles were practically losing their minds.


    "Evie, are you hanging out with that troublemaker Walter right now?"


    Evangeline looked around innocently. "No, why do you ask?"


    Was whatever drama today somehow tied to Walter?


    "Oh boy..."


    Holden sounded like it was tough to get the words out. He let out a heavy sigh before he managed to say, "Listen, I''ve got to tell you something big, but you have to promise not to freak out. Actually, you need to stay very calm for me to spill it." Before Evangeline could even answer, he was already rambling.


    "Who am I kidding? I was a mess when I heard the news, and here I am telling you to keep cool. That''s not exactly fair, is it?"


    it was obvious that Holden was anxious, barely making sense.


    Evangeline felt a weight drop in her chest, but she steeled herself and said with surprising calm, "Uncle


    +25 BONU!


    I''m


    Holden, justy it on me. I''m tougher than I look!"


    Her logic was simple: If the sky were to fall, there would be taller people to catch it. She was Evangeline, after all. How much worse could things get?


    "Okay, here goes."


    Holden took a deep breath. "Your grandpa saw the video of you and Walter''s divorce showdown!"


    ""What?"


    Despite her mental prep, Evangeline could not help but gasp in shock.


    Cole knew about the divorce. What was she going to do?


    On the other end of the line, Holden was fuming, his wordsced with anger.


    "Who the heck spilled the beans to him? How else would he just stumble upon that video of you and Walter splitting up? He never even nces at his phone for news or anything. When I get my hands on whoever did this, they''re going to regret it big time!" Holden''s fury was clear, but Evangeline''s mind was racing with worry about one thing only.

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    Chapter 266


    "Uncle, how is Grandpa? Is he...?" Evangeline could not finish her sentence, her voice choked by tears.


    Cole was more delicate than anyone knew, and even though Dr. George had worked wonders, his health was still a house of cards, propped up by his unshakably positive attitude.


    With the shock of his beloved granddaughter''s divorce, a marriage that had been rocky from the start, what would he think? Evangeline could not bear to think about it.


    The voice on the other end of the line was like a sledgehammer to her heart.


    "He''s in critical condition. Dr. George is doing everything he can. You need to get to the hospital... now."


    ''Grandpa... Oh, grandpa, please be okay!


    He was the one who had always been there for her, the one who loved her most. What would she do if he were gone?


    ''Stay strong... You have to stay strong!'' prayed Evangeline internally.


    Tears streamed down Evangeline''s face, the world around her fading away. She started the car on autopilot and raced to the hospital.


    Outside the operating room, Evangeline''s five uncles were lined up like sentinels, each lost in a heavy silence.


    As Evangeline approached, not one of them said a word. They just looked down as if in a silent pact. She could feel their heartache over Cole''s fight for life, an ache she shared. However, at this moment, regret was eating her up inside. She was so mad at herself. If only she had not lost her cool when she caught Julia cozying up to Walter on that cruise....


    If only she had not thrown such a fit at the County Clerk''s Office after finding out Walter had dodged their divorce and hightailed it out of the country...


    All these ''if onlys'' swirled in her head. Evangeline wondered, if she had done things differently, would Cole have stayed his cheerful self and avoided this dire emergency?


    Without thinking, her hands pressed together in a silent, desperate prayer.


    *Please, let Grandpa pull through. Give him your protection, keep him out of harm''s way..."


    Just then, the sound of rushing footsteps echoed down the hospital hall.


    Walter, out of breath, stopped right next to Evangeline, "How''s Mr. Foster? What''s the word from the doctors?"


    His words wereced with concern, but all Evangeline could see in her head was Walter and Minnie smilingly bantering.


    "Wow, Mr. Walter Gordon, what brings you to the hospital? I thought you were too busy. How could you tear yourself away from your adoring fan club?"


    C


    Evangeline''s worry for Cole and the anger she had been holding back because of Walter came crashing together. Walter, who had just shown up, became the perfect target for her to let it all out.


    "Why are you even here? You don''t have any family at this hospital. Did youe to gloat? To watch my grandpa fight for his life?"This material belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter had barely caught his breath when Evangeline''s words hit him like a punch to the gut.


    "What are you saying? Your grandpa is family to me, too. I would never think something like that."


    Walter had dashed over the moment he got the news from David, skipping out on a lecture he was supposed to give.


    He was about to clear things up with Evangeline when a loud noise from the operating room door interrupted them. Cole''s surgery was done.


    Dr. George, the surgeon, came out first, pulling down his mask in front of Evangeline and her five uncles. Chapter 267

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    Chapter 267


    The surgery had been a marathon, and Dr. George''s forehead was slick with sweat.


    Everyone crowded around him, desperate for news.


    "Dr. George, how is my grandpa? Is he okay?"


    Evangeline''s voice broke with worry.


    "Don''t worry, he''s stable for now. We''ll keep an eye on him for the next twenty-four hours. If all goes well, he''ll have made it through the worst.


    "Thank you so much," said Evangeline, her tears giving way to a small smile of relief.


    Just then, the nurses rolled Cole out. Yale, with his brothers at his side, quickly took over, pushing Cole''s bed toward his room.


    Evangeline did not even pause to look back at Dr. George. With a quick wave, she dashed off to follow the others.


    Dr. George gave a nod to


    Walter, who had not said a word the whole time, and then he walked away. The Foster family''s five brothers were scattered around the spacious hospital room, some sitting, some standing. They silently hovered around Cole''s bed. Evangeline''s gaze fell on Cole, once so full of warmth and life,y still and silent. Her heart ached with an unspeakable sadness.


    She could not help but seethe at the thought of whoever was responsible for her grandfather''s condition.


    "Did you guys figure out who showed Grandpa that video? I thought we were keeping a tight lid on things. How did it slip through?" Yale stepped forward, his voice firm.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "As soon as your grandpa was hospitalized, I had people on it. It was Mr. Jamison''s phone your grandpa was watching."


    "Mr. Jamison?"


    Evangeline remembered him well. Edwin Jamison had been with the Foster family for ages, always taking such good care of Cole. That was why everyone feltfortable leaving Cole in his hands when he got


    sick.


    Still...


    "Didn''t he realize those videos could mess with Grandpa''s mood, and hurt his health?"


    What he did... was akin to murder!


    Evangeline was stunned.


    How could a butler, who had been part of the family for years, hide such intentions? "He knew," said Yale, his head lowered, as if weighed down by a heavy secret.  Chapter 267


    "Honestly, you can''ty all the me at Mr. Jamison''s feet. Your grandfather always had his suspicions about you and Walter tying the knot, but he kept his doubts locked up tight, never letting on. Even though Walter showed up at your birthday bash with a swanky gift, he couldn''t shake off his suspicions.


    "You know the kind of man he is. If he''s set on keeping a secret, there''s nothing any of us could do to pry it out of him. So, while we were away from the family estate, he cooked up some excuse to use Mr. Jamison''s phone. Mr. Jamison was clueless about why, even when he started coughing up blood.


    "It wasn''t until we got to the scene and rushed him to the hospital that Mr. Jamison realized he was part of the problem and spilled the beans. I had to dig through Mr. Jamison''s phone to piece it together." The whole thing was locked up tighter than a drum, and Evangeline could not find a single crack to exploit.


    Evangeline was kicking herself, cursing her stubborn streak that almost cost Cole his life.


    "What''s our next move?"


    Tears brimmed in Evangeline''s eyes, but she did not even try to wipe them away, just let them stream down her face.

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    Chapter 268


    "Grandpa Cole is in this state because of the buzz about me and Walter splitting up. How can we save it now?"


    Evangeline''s mind was a total nk. She had no clue how to soften the blow for Cole.


    Her five uncles all fixed their gaze on her. Then, as if on cue, they all lowered their heads.


    Yale let out a deep sigh. "If he''s already onto us, anything we do now is just spinning our wheels. Let''s just... leave it."


    The worst had happened. What could they possibly do to turn things around?


    "Uh... Can I throw in my two cents?"


    Walter, who had not said a peep since he walked in, cleared his throat and finally piped up.


    "Speak up."


    Evangeline shot Walter an annoyed look. Cole was on his deathbed, partly thanks to Walter, and she was not about to roll out the red carpet for him. She would rather he just spit out whatever he had to say then vanish from Cole''s room for good. "He''s in a bad state, and while I''m part of the reason, I''m more worried about you, his granddaughter, ending up unhappy. So, if we were to be happy, don''t you think he''d be able to rest easy?"


    Walter''s voice had a hopeful lilt, but it was quickly met with the piercing stares of five uncles. Evangeline, the woman at the heart of it all, seemed to be wrestling with the idea.


    "What are you getting at?" Evangeline was out of patience and just wanted Walter to get to the point without making her brain work overtime.


    "We could, you know, act all lovey-dovey in front of him, make him believe we''re a happy couple...".


    Before Walter could finish, Evangeline cut him off, "Act lovey-dovey with you? Walter, are you out of your mind?"


    Was she, Evangeline, so desperate for a man that she would pretend to be head over heels with a guy who could not go three minutes without hitting on another woman?


    Walter was stunned by her blunt words, a sharp pain in his chest, but he quickly pulled himself together. "I get it, we''re not exactly the lovey-dovey type, but we can fake it, right?


    "Grandpa Cole is in a bad way right now. If we''re just worried about our ownfort, aren''t we being kind of selfish? He''s done so much for us. It''s time we return the favor, and we can''t let him stress over silly little things." Walter rattled off his speech smoothly, not missing a beat.


    Evangeline got the message.


    Something did not sit right with her. Even though his words seemed to be all about doing right by Cole, she smelled a rat.


    "Walter, you''re not cooking up some scheme, are you?" she asked warily.


    +25 BON


    "Me? Scheme? All I''m saying is Grandpa Cole is not getting any younger, and it reminds me of my own grandfather. It''s tough being old. We should try to make things easier for them, that''s all." Hearing these words from Walter was a shock, but he sounded so convincing that Evangeline almost had to believe him.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.


    She balled her hands into fists out of sight, her resolve firm.


    "Alright."


    If it would help Cole, she could handle a little difort and y-pretend with Walter. What was the big deal?


    "But just so we''re clear, we''re just putting on a show. Don''t even think about getting sleazy..."

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    Chapter 269


    Walter cut off Evangeline''s caution with a cocky eyebrow lift. "Evangeline, you really think I''d have sleazy thoughts about you?"


    The kind of thoughts a husband had for his wife was considered sleazy? Were they not just part of the deal?


    For Evangeline, however, those words twisted into something else entirely as they reached her ears.


    She was just kidding herself all along. Walter had never really been into her. What could he possibly want with her if not just to blow off some steam?


    She raised her eyes slowly, meeting the gaze of her uncles.


    Holden, the most fiercely protective of the bunch, had tears welling up eyes. "Evie, if you''re going to


    in bis lie to Grandpa now, you''ve got to be ready to keep that lie going until hisst day. Are you... sure about this?"


    Why did the Foster family''s untouchable, regal princess keep getting tangled up with a guy like Walter, the town troublemaker?


    Holden wanted to convince Evangeline to shut down Walter''s nonsense, to kick him out of her life for good. However, the sight of Cole, so still and pale in his hospital bed, made Holden''s resolve waver.


    He knew the other four Foster brothers felt the same, which was why they all kept silent about Evangeline''s messy situation with Walter.


    With all five uncles watching, Evangeline gave a serious nod.


    "It''s fine. As long as Grandpa is okay, I''ll do whatever it takes."


    Her uncles'' faces were etched with worry, but Evangeline cracked a breezy smile.


    "Really, it''s not as bad as you think. If Walter and I patch things up, I won''t have to stay here. I just need to convince Grandpa that I''m staying with the Gordons."


    She might have looked calm, but inside, Evangeline was a storm of mixed emotions about the whole Walter mess.


    Could she actually share a home with Walter and keep her heart locked away?


    Also, once they left the Foster family''s care, splitting paths, how would she ever exin it to Trey?


    Nheless, she could not dwell on these questions anymore.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The room was heavy with tension as Cole finally stirred awake.


    Lying in the hospital bed, his eyes flickered open, dull and tired, an oxygen tube trailing from his nose. When he saw Evangeline, his hand weakly reached out, "Evie, Evie," he croaked, his voice raw and scratchy.


    The rush to save him while he was knocked out under anesthesia had been so frantic that they had not been careful with the tube in his throat.


    "I''m right here," Evangeline whispered, her voice trembling as she clutched her grandfather''s frail hand. How are you feeling? Anything hurting?"


    The doctors had warned about possible side effects from the anesthesia, and with Cole''s health already fragile, he could not just tough it out. He needed to tell someone, get help right away. "No..."


    Cole tried to shake his head, but the oxygen tube limited him to a tiny, constrained motion. Still, that small shake was enough for Evangeline to catch his meaning.


    Cole''s gaze did not wander as he squeezed Evangeline''s hand, took aborious breath as if mustering all his strength, and then said with great effort, "You and Walter...

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    Chapter 270


    Cole''s words came out with difficulty, and Evangeline leaned in close to catch every sound. However, at the mention of that name, the tears she held back came streaming like a downpour.


    After Cole had a close call with death, his first worry was about her happiness in the years toe. A sharp pain clutched at her chest so fiercely that she could barely catch her breath. She could not let Cole see her struggle. Fighting the urge to press her hand against her chest, she tried to sound as calm as possible. "Grandpa, Walter and I are cool again, so you don''t have to stress over us."


    Cole managed a weak wave of his hand and a scoff. "Don''t kid me, I saw the video. You''re splitting up, Evie, I know..." He paused, gasping for air, then added, "I know you''re a good kid, and because you''re so good, I can''t stand the thought of my troubles messing up your shot at happiness..."


    It was clear Evangeline''s reassurances were not convincing Cole.


    Walter moved closer, standing by her side, and chimed in, "Grandpa, Evie and I had a bit of a mix-up, but we''re really back on track now, trust us. You want your favorite granddaughter to be happy, right? Why would we mess up our own lives over some silly stuff?


    "Our future happiness is up to us, and we''re not about to throw it away. Walter''s words were blunt, but they cut to the heart of the matter.


    Evangeline, seizing the moment, looped her arm through his. "Exactly, Grandpa. Walter and I are super happy now, so no more worrying, okay?"


    However, as she looked into Cole''s distant gaze, her heart remained heavy, refusing to settle. The room was silent, the air thick with tension.


    Time seemed to drag until, atst, Evangeline saw Cole give a feeble shake of his head. "You don''t have to pretend with me; I may be old, but I''m not out of my mind."N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Cole''s eyes welled up again, tears shimmering in his gaze.


    "How can I fall for such a made-up story? You''re just trying to trick me, aren''t you?"


    Cole had always been tough, hardly ever letting tears show.


    At that moment, the thought of Evangeline and Walter''s wedding had brought him to tears.


    The Foster family''s five brothers were all touched by the scene, but they hesitated toe closer, knowing Cole was worried about Evangeline. They stood back, silently offering their support.


    "Grandpa, don''t you trust me anymore?" Evangeline''s voice cracked as tears spilled down her cheeks, even as she tried to dry Cole''s.


    Then, out of nowhere, a hand stopped her mid-wipe. She looked up to find Walter, his face set in a serious


    line.


    "Evie, take the uncles and step out for a bit. I need to talk to Grandpa alone."


    Determination shone in Walter''s eyes.


    Evangeline felt helpless, but seeing Walter''s resolve, she knew she had to trust him.


    Dabbing at her eyes, she left him with a worried instruction, "Call me immediately if Grandpa feels sick, okay?" Walter nodded reassuringly. "I''ve got this."


    Evangeline and the uncles left the room, but she could not bring herself to go far, lingering just outside the door.


    The ward was soundproofed to aid in healing, so even when pressed against the door, they could not catch a whisper of the conversation inside.

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    Chapter 271 Chapter


    271


    In the room, Walter sat by Cole''s hospital bed, ready to have a heart-to-heart conversation.


    Cole squared off with Walter, the grandson-inw he had never quite approved of, and his voice was icy with disapproval. "Spit it out if you''ve got something to say. You might not get another chance."N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    When picking a husband for Evangeline, Cole never cared for family status or good looks. It was all about character.


    So what if Walter came from a fa


    amily? So what if he looked like he stepped out of a magazine? If he


    did not treat Evangeline right, he did not measure up to Cole''s standards for a grandson-inw, and Cole saw no reason to y nice. Walter was no fool; he could read between the lines of Cole''s frosty words.


    Their conversation was a hair''s breadth away from Cole showing him the door without saying it outright.


    However, for Evangeline''s sake, Walter would stand his ground, even if it meant taking a metaphorical p to the face.


    "Grandpa, you might find what I''m about to say hard to believe."


    "Don''t call me ''Grandpa''. Once you and Evie are done, we''re nothing to each other. Why lower yourself to call me that?"


    Cole had always been protective of his reputation, but he did not even offer Walter a shred of respect, which showed just how livid he was.


    "Grandpa, I''m going to be straight with you-I''m never going to divorce Evangeline."


    Walter knew better than to pick a fight with Cole, especially when he was this upset. If he did not get to the point, Cole might just kick him out on the spot.


    Cole''s eyes narrowed into a fierce re. "What, you can''t make Evie happy, and now you won''t let her go find happiness elsewhere? Is this the selfishness that Trey taught you grandkids? Always thinking of yourselves?" He was beyond angry.


    He could never have imagined that the man his darling granddaughter had once begged to marry would turn out to be such a rotten scoundrel!


    Ovee with emotion, Cole began to cough uncontrobly.


    Walter did not dare to upset him further and quickly tried to calm him down, "Grandpa, you''ve got it all wrong. What I''m trying to say is, it doesn''t matter if Evie''s heart is with me. I... I don''t want a divorce. I want to be with her for the rest of my life." "What are you getting at?" Cole fought back his cough, a flicker of doubt in his eyes. He knew all too well Evangeline''s feelings when she stubbornly chose to marry this guy. Could it be that this cker before him... still had not figured it out? Chapter 271


    Walter was about to say something that could embarrass him. However, to save his marriage with Evangeline, he was willing to put his pride aside. He hung his head a little, trying to hold on to thest shred of his dignity. "Yes! When Evangeline and I got married, I didn''t treat her right. But going through so much together in this marriage, I''ve realized I can''t live without her. It doesn''t matter if I''m in her heart, I''ve chosen her, and I can''t imagine a day withoor."


    Cole''s suspicions were confirmed by these words, stirring a whirlwind of emotions within him. Evie had been so headstrong about marrying Walter, and Walter was showing the same determination. As someone who had seen it all, how could he stand in the way of such a promising union?


    However, with the way things were between them, were they just not one honest conversation away from true understanding? Chapter 272

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    Valter, are you serious about all this?" At this point, all Cole wanted was Walter''s word. He just could not ear the thought of entrusting Evangeline to him again without it.


    Walter did not even pause before nodding vigorously. "If I''ve told you a single lie today, I''m ready to face the worst you can throw at me!"


    Cole gave a casual wave of his hand: "If you''ve got the guts to say it, I''ve got the guts to believe it."


    He was not questioning Walter''s honesty, but...


    It was a real head-scratcher how these two kids, obviously crazy about each other, just could not get their


    feelings to sync up.


    "Need any help from your grandpa?"


    He knew better than to butt in on young love, but his heart ached to see them all lovey-dovey, and he could not help wanting to lend a hand.


    "No need, Grandpa," Walter cut in quickly.


    Truth be told, Cole''s eagerness for a great-grandson had been a huge help. As long as he did not have to vanish from Evangeline''s life, he was over the moon with gratitude. How could he ask for anything more? "The thing between me and Evangeline, you don''t have to worry about it. We''ll just go with the flow."


    He had faith that a true heart could break through any barrier.


    As long as he kept his heart true to Evangeline, he was sure he would win her back from that jerk Alex one day.


    Cole''s mouth quirked in a half-smile.


    ''Well, if you''re that set on it... then I hope you don''t mind if I just watch from the sidelines,'' he thought. Every parent treasured their daughter, and it was the same way with his granddaughter.


    Little did they know, Evangeline was right outside the door, �� bundle of nerves and drenched in sweat. Cole was known for his fiery temper, and there was no way he would give Walter, the guy who had been mean to Evangeline, a warm wee.


    Evangeline was not worried about Walter getting what he deserved. She was more concerned that Cole, who had just been pulled back from the brink, might get so upset that his old health issues would re up again. That was scenario no one wanted to deal with. Right then, Evangeline was kicking herself for letting her guard down earlier, for letting Walter have a one-on-one with her grandfather.


    The door suddenly cracked open, and there was Walter, his face as unreadable as ever.


    The Foster brothers, all five of them, had swarmed into Cole''s hospital room, leaving Evangeline to step out with Walter.


    Her uncles were with her grandfather, so she was not too worried about him.


    "Walter, what did you tell Grandpa? Is he mad? And did he buy the story that we''ve patched things up?" she rambled, gripping Walter''s sleeve.


    Walter nced down at Evangeline''s anxious face and felt an unexpected pang of... something. When would she look at him with that same concern?


    Of course, she was fretting over her grandfather, not some guy like him. He was not going to let that get in the way of what needed to be done. "Don''t sweat it. I''ll just have to prove it to him, you know, by getting you pregnant. That''ll convince him," he


    said.


    The thought of Walter''s idea of ''proving it'' made Evangeline''s skin crawl with annoyance.


    "Fine, whatever!" she snapped, yanking ner arm away and storming off.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Why did things have to be soplicated with Walter? Could they not call it quits, clean and simple?


    However, the image of Cole fighting for every breath in that hospital bed washed over her. Evangeline felt her resolve waver.


    As long as Cole stayed healthy, Evangeline was ready to ept whatever came her way.


    By the time she figured out the mess she was in, Walter had pulled a disappearing act.


    How was she supposed to have a baby on her own? Without Walter''s help, no m

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    Chapter 273


    Annoyance bubbled up inside Evangeline again. The mere thought of dealing with that scumbag Walter made her want to scream.


    Then, out of the blue, she thought of Lydia, who had been radio silent for way too long.


    Ever since Walter got better, Evangeline''s life had been non-stop chaos. Lydia''s situation had slipped her mind.


    With Cole sick and in the hospital, it seemed like the perfect time to swing by Lydia''s room.


    Evangeline rounded the corner and found herself at Lydia''s door.


    Lydia was out of the ICU already. Her vitals were stable, and she was not badly hurt, so she should have


    been awake.


    However, she was still out cold on the bed.


    Evangeline gave the middle-aged woman a quick look, then told the nurse, "Thisdy''s pretty important. If she shows any sign of waking up, call r kay?" She left her card and walked out without a backward nce.


    What she did not know was that right after she left, a chic figure in stilettos slipped into the room.


    The woman was tall and elegant, with a face that could grace magazines, wearing a ssy, dark dress.


    It was Julia, who had once pined for Walter''s love and then reinvented herself as Minnie toe back


    into the fold.


    Lydia lying in that hospital bed? She was Julia''s mother.


    Minnie crept silently behind the door, waiting until she was sure Evangeline had left. Once the coast was clear, she boldly stepped into the hospital room. At Crystal Waters House.


    After much thought, Evangeline concluded thating back here was the best decision.


    She needed to get closer to Walter to have a baby sooner and put Cole''s worries to rest.


    However, every time she remembered Walter''s heart might still belong to Julia, she felt sick to her


    stomach.


    She reminded herself to stay strong, not only for Cole but for her future child as well.


    It was not the first time she had been close to Walter. If it came to it... she would just grit her teeth and get through it, like enduring a dog bite. Once she was pregnant, she would be free from all this drama. Back in her own space, Evangeline stepped into the bathtub and scrubbed herself clean.


    She could not let her childe into the world under such murky circumstances.


    While she still had the upper hand, she was determined toy down thew with Walter, maybe even draft


    *25 BONUS


    a contract about having the baby.


    The terms of that contract, though... That needed some serious thought.


    She wanted to have the baby and raise it on her own. Walter was not just anybody. The Gordon family''s pride would not let them settle for anything less than what they felt they deserved, especially not for money.


    That was going to be a tough nut to crack.


    As dusk settled, Walter drove up to his house, only to see smoke curling up from the kitchen vent-a sight he had not seen in ages.


    Maybe the chef was whipping up something special.


    Heposed himself and walked in with purpose.


    What he found inside was unexpected.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    There was Evangeline, donning an apron, bustling around the kitchen with two steaming dishes already on the table.


    Was she cooking for him?


    Walter''s heart raced, a rare warmth creeping onto his usually stoic face. He blinked in disbelief, and after making sure his eyes were not ying tricks on him, he hurried into the kitchen.


    Walter had dreamed of this moment more times than he could count, and it was actually happening. He longed to wrap his arms around the woman who was stirring a pot of soup just for him, just like in his daydreams. However, life had a knack for throwing in scenes that were not in the script..

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    Chapter 274


    Evangeline noticed Walter first and gestured toward the dining table. "Two more dishes to go, but they''ll be ready in a moment. Just hang tight a little longer."N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    She looked like a devoted wife, so at ease with cooking and waiting for her husband to return from work that Walter felt like this had always been their routine. "Sure."


    He was about to take a seat when Evangeline, with a touch of shyness, said, "Oh, I forgot to mention, you might want to wash your hands before we eat. It''s just cleaner that way."


    Walter had beelined for the kitchen as soon as he got home, not pausing to wash up. Her gentle nudge took him back to his childhood-those days of ying hard and rushing home, only to be caught by his mom before he could attack the dinner table, all because he had not washed his hands.


    This time, it was not his mom''s caring scold he faced, but his dear wife, Evangeline. A wave of warmth washed over him, and he struggled to find the words for how he felt. Her name, Evangeline, seemed to echo in his heart, making it soft and warm. W nat, he obediently turned and headed off to wash his


    hands.


    Evangeline listened to the soft sound of water running in the bathroom and could not shake a mix of surprise and awkwardness. It was kind of silly, frankly. Walter was a grown man. He did not need her acting like a nosy neighbor, reminding him to wash his hands before eating. To her amazement, he actually listened to her nagging and did it!


    The dinner table was quiet, almost too quiet. They both kept their heads down, focused on their own tes. Walter seemed like he wanted to break the silence, to say something to Evangeline. However, every time he nced up and saw her intently eating, he just could not get the words out.


    Evangeline caught his starts and stops and felt a twinge of difort. They rarely shared a meal like this, and it should not have been so tense.


    However, with all that had happened between them, small talk seemed impossible, especially with the surrogacy contract weighing on her mind. How could she get Walter to agree to it?


    As soon as they finished eating, Walter got up and started clearing the table before Evangeline could even react. With no role for herself in the kitchen, she headed back to their bedroom, a room that seemed frozen in time since their wedding day.


    Sitting on the bed, her feelings werepletely different. The romantic dreams of her youth had disappeared, reced by the image of Cole''s face, full of hope for a cherished great-grandchild.


    She stepped into the bathtub with a heavy sigh. She might as well freshen up. After all, she had a mission to aplish tonight. Without any fancy lingerie to choose from, Evangeline slipped into a simple cotton nightgown.


    Walter had cleared the dinner table and headed upstairs, where hey on his bed, his gaze locked on his phone screen, lost in whatever he was viewing. Evangeline slipped back into the bathroom, gave herself another spritz of perfume, and then stepped out. The light, sweet scent seemed out of ce with her simple cotton pajamas, but as Walter caught sight of her slightly damp hair, he found himself spellbound.


    Chapt


    s appeal was not in how she carried herself or the clothes she wore. If someone had a eye, even the simplest outfit could seem alluring. As Walter watched her, her damp hair the light, it was clear that nothing else mattered. oday''s Bonus Offer

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    Chapter 275


    I meant it. Even though I had no medical background, his exnations made it easy to follow and appreciate just how impressive modern medicine is.


    "What''s up with you? You look like you''ve been up to no good," Lena teased, ignoring my praise and


    zoning in on my state.


    No surprise there-being a gynecologist gave her a sixth sense for this stuff. She didn''t just notice something was off; she pretty much guessed why.


    I pouted. "Just a little worn out."


    Lena''s eyes went wide. "You... You actually did it? With who?"


    The first part made sense, but thosest two words were a bit much.


    I nced around, thankful no one was nearby. Biting my lip, I replied, "Who do you think?"


    Lena squinted at me for a moment. "Hayden?"


    I didn''t say anything, which was answer enough. Lena nodded slowly, then shook her head. "I can''t believe it. Jace was with you for ten years and never got there, but Hayden swoops in and seals the deal?"


    I was stunned into silence.


    "What happened? Did you make the first move?" Lena asked, clearly overestimating my boldness.


    I cleared my throat. "It was mutual."


    Lena burst outughing, obviously teasing me.


    I red at her. "What''s so funny? It''s true! I didn''t force anything."


    "That''s not the point. The point is, you managed to snag such a good-looking guy. You definitely came out on top," Lena said, each word more shocking than thest.


    I smirked and shot back, "Dr. Lane, I always wondered why you haven''t shown interest in anyone or gotten involved with any guys all these years. Turns out you''ve been holding out for someone like Professor Neumann, thinking only that would be worth it?" Lena wasn''t shy about it at all. "Exactly. If you''re gonna do it, make it count-with someone you really like and who''s exceptional."


    "He is exceptional. It''d be a shame to let it pass by. You should just tell him how you feel. Who knows? It might actually work out," I encouraged her.


    Lena pressed her lips together. "It''s impossible between us. If I confess, there are only two possible


    oues."


    "What are they?"


    Lena hesitated. "One, we start a rtionship and fall deeply in love. Two, I confess and lose himpletely, not even as a friend."


    I let out a smallugh. "That''s such an obvious statement. Isn''t it like that for any couple?"


    She shook her head, her smile tinged with a bit of self-mockery. "For us, it would definitely be thetter. So I''d rather say nothing and still have him as a friend."


    Seeing her like this made me realize just how deep her feelings for Nate went. They ran so deep they could shape her future rtionships and even her choice of a partner.


    I wanted to tell her to take a leap, but everyone had their own reasons, and it was not my ce to push.


    So, I kept quiet and nced toward the spot where Nate had been standing earlier. To my surprise, he


    was gone.


    "Where''s your Nate? Let''s go find him!" I said, pulling on Lena''s arm.


    She turned around, and there was Nate, standing right behind us in his white coat.


    Both Lena and I froze. We had no idea how long he''d been there or how much he''d heard of our


    conversation.


    Lena was clearly nervous, maybe even embarrassed. She started fidgeting, tucking her hair behind her ear -her telltale habit whenever she felt awkward or self-conscious. She was so flustered she even forgot to say hello.


    My social instincts kicked in. I stepped forward and extended my hand to Nate. "Professor Neumann, hi! I''m Lena''s friend, Keira. Your lecture was absolutely amazing."


    Nate shook my hand lightly, then let go, his eyes immediately shifting back to Lena.


    I nudged her with my elbow, signaling her to say something.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

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    Chapter 276 Chapter


    276


    "What do you think we should be talking about right now?" Walter''s voice was rough, his eyebrows arching slightly, each tiny expression showcasing his maic charm.


    Evangeline had to keep reminding herself she had a goal to stay focused, or she would be lost in his smoldering looks.


    "How about we discuss... a baby-making deal?"


    Walter chuckled, his wordsced withyers of meaning as he said, "Evangeline, are you putting me to


    the test?"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline awkwardly turned her head, avoiding his piercing look.


    The moment of truth had arrived, and it felt kind of wrong to put on the brakes.


    However, if she did not speak up, she worried that Walter might let his passions run wild, and she would


    miss her chance to talk.


    "I just think we should clear the air on some thing, he said.


    Walter stayed put, casually propping his chin with one hand while looking down at her, and said in an easygoing tone, "Go ahead."


    He was actually eager to find out what kind of surprise deal Evangeline had in store for him. That was, if a baby-making deal could even count as a surprise.


    "You''re well aware of why we''re doing this, so let''s not dwell on it," he said.


    Without Cole as a convenient excuse, Evangeline doubted she would ever have the chance to have Walter''s baby.


    ''Evangeline, you sweet child, your love is far too self-effacing, Evangeline chided herself.


    Pushing aside her feelings of injustice, Evangeline put on her best business face.


    "If I end up pregnant, the baby''s mine. But don''t worry, you won''t lose out. I''ll give you back every share of the Gordon family stock aspensation." She had it all nned out.


    The Gordon family stock was Trey''s legacy, something he wanted to pass on to his daughter-inw.


    Since Evangeline would not have the luck to be Trey''s daughter-inw, she had no right to hold onto the shares any longer.


    "You''ve thought this through," Waltermented, his voice cool, a frosty smile barely touching the edges of his lips.


    Impressive! She was exactly the kind of woman he had expected!


    She was ready to use him for a baby and then draw a line in the sand, all without a second''s hesitation.


    He was tempted to ask Evangeline if she would be so ruthless with the agreement if the father were his beloved Alex.


    "So, do you agree?" Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with hope.


    She knew she was not in Walter''s heart, but if he agreed to leave the baby with her, that was all she needed to be content.


    She had no idea that her shining eyes were like daggers to Walter''s heart.


    She was happy to draw a line between them, was she? Alright, then.


    "Why would I object? It''s just a bit of fun for me, and then I''ll help you," he replied.


    Walter forced a smirk and indifferently said, "This trinket? It''s nothingpared to Gordon Group''s stocks.


    The more he tried to shrug it off, the sharper the ache in his heart grew.


    Since when had Walter, Avalon City''s golden boy, been reduced to such lows?


    Having a baby with the girl of his dreams should have been easy. Instead, he had to take the scenic route, all thanks to another guy. Alex was on his list.


    A frosty glint sparked in Walter''s eyes as he turned to Evangeline with a deration. "Shall we begin?"


    At this moment, he was consumed with the desire to im the girl beneath him-body and soul.


    He was determined to make her realize she belonged to him and him alone.


    He longed to hear her whisper his name.

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    Chapter 277


    Evangeline''s cheeks turned a rosy hue at the heated invitation.


    They both wanted a child, so this closeness was bound to happen.


    Doing her best to keep herposure, Evangeline took a deep breath and quickly shut her eyes. She could not bear for Walter to see the truth in her gaze.


    She could not even imagine the tempest that would ensue if he ever discovered her true feelings.


    The sweet moment they had from before picked up where it had left off. Walter sensed Evangeline''s rigid form beneath him, her usualpliance seeming like a rush to get it over with. That realization hit him like a ssh of cold water, dousing the fire of his passion.


    Abruptly, he stood up.


    "Get some sleep," he said, and the night swallowed his words.


    Walter left the room abruptly, leaving Evangeli


    tunned and bewildered. She never saw iting.


    Her eyes snapped open, gazing at the space beside her in the bed, clueless about what just happened.


    Walter had been so close, so responsive just moments ago. Why did he suddenly bail? Was not the hefty slice of the Gordon family fortune enough to lure him into starting a family with her? This could not be happening.


    Evangeline''s fists tightened in secret resolve.


    He had given his word, and she was determined to get what she wanted from him, no matter what.


    Slipping into her slippers, Evangeline hurried out of the bedroom after Walter.


    In the study, Walter''s video conference was in full swing, all business as usual.


    Evangeline lingered at the door, listening to his steady voice, her determination hardening.


    She was ready for a swift showdown. Walter could not possibly resist her charm, and she was sure of it.


    This was not her first rodeo trying to seduce Walter, yet this time her heart raced with an unusual mix of


    fear and excitement.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Knock, knock, knock!


    Evangeline rapped on the door of Walter''s study, leaning casually against the doorframe, instantly drawing his gaze.


    Walter looked at her questioningly, even as he kept up with the ongoing video conference.


    At that moment, Evangeline started undoing the buttons of her nightgown right in front of him. One after


    another.


    Her pale skin peeked through, revealed bit by bit with each button she freed. Walter''s eyes took on a deeper intensity, but he was not about to rush things.


    Walter propped his chin on his hand, only half-listening to the executives drone on with their reports. His real focus was on Evangeline, watching her every move with a poker face. He was dying to find out what she was plotting.


    Nheless, Walter was ying it too cool, and Evangeline was getting antsy.


    With each step she took, her pajama top slipped off and hit the floor, but she did not even pause. She kept walking right up to Walter.


    Before she could utter a word, she was hit by an invisible wave of intensity.


    When she came to, she was already wrapped up in Walter''s arms, his hand zing like fire on her bare skin, sending a rush of heat through her.


    Evangeline''s whole body was on fire from his touch.


    Then, out of nowhere...


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve finished my report. What should I do next?" came an executive''s voice from Walter''s phone.


    That was when Evangeline realized Walter was in the study for a meeting!


    What had she done? Did she just try to seduce him in the middle of his meeting by stripping?


    Evangeline sucked in a breath, feeling the heat in her body vanish in an instant.


    Should she run?


    Her eyes begged Walter, pleading for some kind of forgiveness.


    She could not believe she had been so bold without first checking the room.

 278

    Chapter 278


    However, Walter was not about to let her off the hook.


    He tilted his phone away so Evangeline was out of view and spoke in a voice devoid of any feeling, "Alright, let''s hear the next one."


    The voice of a female executive reporting her work came through the phone, sounding distant and as emotionless as a robot.


    Walter was like a walking inferno, his breath hot as he leaned in close, his lips a whisper away from her ear. "You don''t want us to get caught, do you?" His voice was a soft lure, but his every move was teasing and bold.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.


    His strong hands traced the lines of Evangeline''s body. At the slightest hint of her resistance, his eyes flicked to where the phoney, a silent warning.


    In an instant, the fire within Evangeline was snuffed out.


    The pride of being the Foster family''s darling every touch.


    However, he was pushing the limits.


    cess made her bend to Walter''s will, silently bearing his


    Evangeline had shed her flimsy nightgown to tempt Walter, so she was d in only two scraps of fabric. Walter wasted no time, and he ripped away the cloth shielding her most private parts with a single forceful tug. "Ah!" Evangeline''s cry was sudden, unexpected.


    The voice of the female executive, mid-report, halted.


    The study was caught in a moment of stifling awkwardness.


    However, the pause was fleeting, the executive''s voice rolling on as if nothing had happened, as natural as if Evangeline had imagined the whole thing.


    Walter did not leave her any room for scattered thoughts. Dressed in his workday white shirt and ck trousers, he was the picture of control. Even amid their closeness, only the corner of his shirt was crumpled.


    Evangeline stood there naked, the room''s chill and her own modesty making her wrap her arms around herself, trying to cover up. Walter was not having any of it. He held her close, his grip unyielding, and with a swift move, he pried her hands away and ced them on his zipper.


    Evangeline''s face turned beet red with indignation, ready to give him a piece of her mind, but he just shushed her with a finger to his lips and a meaningful nce at the phone.


    Taking a deep breath to calm her rage, Evangeline could not help but wince as she felt Walter''s eagerness pressing against her, causing her to frown. Then she caught his smug expression, mouthing the words,'' Go on.''


    She raised an eyebrow. Was he saying if she wanted kids, she would have to put in the effort? Fine by her -she was all about putting in the effort!


    She yed along with the pressure of his hand,pliant yet teasingly holding back.


    Walter gasped, abruptly ending the video call, and with a decisive move, he lifted the still-squirming Evangeline and pinned her to the desk. The heated tangle was on. Walter''s eyes were fiery with desire as if he wanted to devour this rebellious woman right there. Suddenly... "Ow, that hurts!"


    Amid their passion, Evangeline''s cry of pain brought Walter to an abrupt halt. His eyes, red with intensity, he leaned in, his voice rough with concern. "What happened?"


    Evangeline''s ankle throbbed so badly that she was on the brink of tears. She gripped her ankle, and just the sight of Walter made her blood boil.


    "You twisted my ankle!"

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    Chapter 279


    Walter raced to the hospital with Evangeline in tow.


    The doctor, a veteran of countless sprains, knew exactly what had happened.


    The nurses, though, could not resist a bit of gossip once they recognized Evangeline and Walter. "Aren''t they supposed to be at odds and heading for a divorce? What''s with the emergency hospital visit?" Their suggestive pause practically broadcasted their assumptions to everyone.


    One nurse quipped, "What else? They must''ve gotten a little too wild! I don''t know about their love life, but I bet they''re stuck with each other!"


    Evangeline, draped in Walter''s jacket, was being pulled along by the very person who caused this mess. She overheard the nurse''s snarkyment.


    She shot Walter a fierce look, only to realize in frustration that she was hidden under his jacket, invisible to him


    "Rx, us two are like an old married couple. What''s there to be shy about?"


    Walter said it so casually. Remembering the nurses'' whispers, he could not help but be amused.


    When did Evangeline be so endearing?


    She could almost thaw his heart, especially when she was shy.


    "This is all your fault!" Evangeline ripped off Walter''s jacket and thrust it back at him. "Walter, there better not be a next time!"


    Evangeline knew if she had to show up at the hospital again for something so embarrassing, she would never be able to show her face around town.


    Walter was not about to make things easy for her, though.


    "Oh, we''ll see about that! Don''t follow the rules, and guess what? I might just have you here every single day," he said with a wicked grin, his teeth a blinding white.


    A shiver ran down Evangeline''s spine for no good reason. She knew Walter was not bluffing.


    She just wanted them to hurry up and have a kid, so she could cut ties with him for good!


    Even with these thoughts swirling in her head, Evangeline refused to be outdone by Walter. She feigned indifference and shot back, "You''re not embarrassed, so why should I be? What''s there to fear for a woman on the verge of divorce?" Amid their sharp-tongued battle, a towering bodyguard in uniform rushed over.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, Ms. Evangeline, Lady Lydia has vanished. You both need toe quick."


    They raced to Lydia''s room, only to find an empty bed. Evangeline''s anger boiled over, and she mmed her fist onto the mattress.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    "You had one job-to watch Lydia! How does someone in aa just vanish on your watch?"


    Evangeline, the Foster family''s darling princess, was known for her poise. At this moment, however, she was so livid she let the curse words fly, a sure sign she was beyond furious.


    The bodyguards, knowing they had messed up, bowed their heads in shame, silently bracing for her verdict.


    In the Foster household, a mistake always came with a price-and that price was whatever thedy of the house decided.


    Walter watched Evangeline''s distress, and his heart ached for her. He remembered how she always seemed untouchable, like the Foster family''s princess, except when she was with him. He could not recall a time when she had been this upset. He knew just how much Lydia meant to her and did not want Evangeline to wear herself out over this.


    He moved closer and gently put his hand on her fragile shoulder.


    "My bodyguard just updated me. There''s a lot that doesn''t add up about Lydia''s disappearance. I''ll handle it from here. You should head back and get some rest."

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    Chapter 280


    They had been through so much that night, and with Evangeline''s sprained ankle, they had hurried to the hospital. They had been dyed so long that it was the wee hours of the morning.


    Walter''s worry grew, and he firmly tried to guide Evangeline back, but she jerked away from his grasp. "I''m not going anywhere!


    "Walter, you don''t get it. You don''t know what Julia did to me, and you can''t understand how much Lydia means to me! I thought, if Julia was gone, that was it. Catching Lydia would bring me some justice. But now, she''s vanished right before our eyes, even though she was out cold!"


    The more Evangeline thought about it, the more suspicious she felt, her red, tearful eyes fixed on Walter.


    "It was you, wasn''t it, Walter?"


    She was almost convinced of his guilt.


    "What are you talking about?"


    Walter was taken aback, but Evangeline''s eyes were filled with rity that said she saw right through him.


    "The only ones watching Lydia, besides the medical staff, were your crew and mine. My guys would never go against my orders, so that leaves you...


    "How on earth could Lydia have vanished into thin air without your help?"


    Walter realized Evangeline was ming her for this.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He was irritated, but seeing her face red with rage, he could not help but feel a twinge of sympathy.


    "Let me handle this, okay? No need for you to stress over it."


    "Sure, you talk a good game!" Evangeline let out a bitterugh.


    Even at this moment, Walter was trying toe off as a nice guy!


    How could she ever trust Walter?


    "You''re the one behind all this mess, so how can you even say that? You act allforting, but deep down, you probably think I''m just a fool, a puppet in the hands of the great Mr. Walter Gordon!" Walter could not help butugh, though it was more out of frustration than amusement.


    "Fine, you think I let Lydia slip away? Then tell me, if I really wanted that, why would I stick around to help you sort this out?"


    Lydia''s disappearance had surprised Walter, and he had not had time to make sense of it all. He did not want to get into a spat with Evangeline.


    s, she seemed to have it in her head that he was the bad guy. To keep their already fragile rtionship from falling apart over a silly misunderstanding, he tried to get her to see reason.


    Evangeline, however, did not hesitate in her response.


    "Who''s to say? Maybe you''re just pretending to help me while you''re actually plotting to sneakily save your


    beloved mother-inw," Evangeline used.


    Walter was at a loss for words. "For thest time, Lydia is not my mother-inw! There''s a limit to your wild usations." He dered firmly, "And another thing, I''m taking over this situation from here on out. You just head back and wait for updates." Walter''smanding tone did not leave any room for Evangeline to argue. "Take Mrs. Gordon back to Crystal Waters House," he ordered his bodyguards. "Keep a close eye on her and don''t let her leave."


    The Gordons'' bodyguards leaped into action, and the Fosters'' bodyguards, hearing the respected title Mrs. Gordon'', did not dare to make a move and simply followed, standing watch outside the house.


    Alone in the vast, silent vi, Evangeline sank into the living room couch, reying the past few days in her mind. Where did things go wrong? How could Lydia, a woman in aa and written off to be in a vegetative state, just vanish? Chapter 281

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 281

    Chapter 281


    After Cole''s health had stabilized, Evangeline had just gone to see Lydia. Lydia had not shown any signs of waking up, so what on earth had happened at the hospital in those few hours?


    The silence of Crystal Waters House enveloped her. Calming down after her spat with Walter, Evangeline began to think that maybe she had been wrong about him.


    With the influence the Gordons wielded, if they really wanted to set Lydia free, would not it have been a cinch to cook up some fake medical report and convince themselves Lydia was gone for good? Why go through the whole song and dance of rescuing her, then act like they were guarding her?


    The memory of Walter''s furious yet determined face as he vowed to dig deeper into the matter brought a pang of guilt to Evangeline''s heart.


    Walter had a point. Lydia''s vanishing act was riddled with question marks, and Evangeline had flown off the handle at Walter without getting her facts straight. She needed to take a breath, cool her head, and get to the bottom of things with a proper investigation. Cool it, cool it!


    Lydia was out there somewhere, and calmi.


    .own felt like trying to smooth ruffled feathers in a gale.


    Then, the click of the door lock snapped her back to the present, signaling Walter was home.


    The hospital drama was far from over, but after sending Evangeline back, Walter could not shake the worry that she could be tossing and turning all night. So, he hit pause on everything else toe and see for himself.


    What he had not expected was to find Evangeline, no longer caught up in her earlier frenzy, her eyes now sharp and focused.


    However, he was fretting over something else entirely.


    "Why aren''t you asleep?"


    Forget the hospital incident; Evangeline''s well-being was his top priority.


    There she was on the couch, clutching a throw pillow. Her gaze was distant as if she was piecing together a puzzle in her mind.


    It took Walter''s voice to jolt her back to reality.


    "You''re back?"


    Evangeline''s reaction was slow on the uptake. "Did you get to the bottom of the hospital stuff?"


    "Oh? So you''ve stopped suspecting me?" Walter raised an eyebrow, his lips twisting into a sly grin that seemed at odds with the guy who had nearly lost his cool over Evangeline''s words just moments before. Evangeline made a face. "I... I just panicked, okay?" "So, panicking is an excuse to throw wild usations around?" Walter cut her off, not bothering with pleasantries.


    Caught out, Evangeline did not try to argue.


    "Did I? I guess I just let my imagination run wild and ended up hurting you."


    She clung to some twisted logic, her voice growing softer and more yful by the second, obviously trying to charm her way out of trouble.


    Walter was not having any of it. "Evangeline, you realize you''ve messed up with me, and you''re still making excuses?"


    Despite everything, Evangeline admitting to hurting him hit the right note, and Walter''s irritation faded.


    Still, it was not every day he got to see Evangeline backpedaling and begging, so he decided to savor the moment a bit longer. "What do you want from me?" she asked.


    Their usual vibe was more like a standoff, and she was clueless about how to smooth things over.


    Walter locked eyes with her, his lips barely moving as heid down thew.


    "No repeats."


    He was always on Evangeline''s side, and he would not stand for even a hint of doubt from her.


    "Got it, I swear!" Evangeline raised her palm, looking for all the world like she was taking a sacred vow.


    She thought her own bodyguard was a dud and needed Walter''s muscle to look into Lydia''s vanishing act, so she had topromise.


    She actually felt bad for getting Walter wrong and figured she owed him an apology.


    N?velDrama.Org content rights.

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    Chapter 282


    Walter''s eyes snapped shut with a satisfied grin.


    Evangeline jumped at the chance to grill him. "So, can you spill the beans about what''s going on at the hospital now?"


    Before she could even brace herself, a big hand swooped in, nketing her eyes in darkness.


    Evangeline''s eyes mped shut reflexively, and she was swallowed up by the shadows. The pitch-ck world seemed to heighten her senses, making her hyper-aware of everything around her. She could feel Walter''s arms scoop her up around the middle, carrying her up the stairs with steady steps, and gently setting her down on a soft bed.


    "Walter, what are you up to?" she demanded.


    Her eyes flew open just in time to see Walter tucking her in.


    He yanked the quilt over her head, covering her face.


    Muffled by the quilt, Evangeline heard Walter''s voice from above, stem like a warning. ''Go sleep! I''ll fill you in after I get some sleep."


    Evangeline wriggled under the quilt, but Walter''s firm hand kept her pinned.


    Despite being smothered by the quilt, she did not feel the least bit short of breath.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Hisrge frame held her down, and as time ticked by, her buzzing nerves unwound, lulling her into


    dreand.


    When Evangeline woke up, the sun was already zing in the sky, and Walter''s side of the bed had gone cold-he had taken off ages ago.


    "That jerk. He promised to tell me when we woke up, and now he''s vanished into thin air!*


    Fuming, Evangeline chucked a pillow across the room to blow off steam and made a mental note: if she ever fell for Walter''s smooth talk again, she would be the biggest fool on four legs!


    The phone buzzed with a new message, and it was from Walter.


    He was basically saying that Lydia''s vanishing act was not her problem and that they had beefed up security for her.


    Evangeline tossed her phone onto the nightstand with a loud thud.


    She was the Foster family''s darling princess! Since when did Walter get to y her knight in shining armor? He could not possibly still think she was that clingy girl from the countryside, dead set on marrying him, could he? With a huff, Evangeline''s mind raced with ns.


    There was no way she could just ignore Lydia''s situation, but figuring out how to dive in and where to start digging was another story.


    Nheless, that was not the top priority. Lydia managed to vanish right under the noses of the Foster


    family''s bodyguards. That was a p in the face, especially since Evangeline was too livid to hear their side of the story yesterday. Today, they deserved a shot at exining themselves. She hit the call button and a voice came through.


    "Miss, what do you need?" The bodyguard''s voice was all politeness, with a touch of nervousness underneath.


    They made a mistake, and they knew it was time to face the music.


    "Get in here, I need to talk to all of you," shemanded.


    The Foster family had a whole squad of seven bodyguards for Evangeline, with one always on call for emergencies and the others rotating shifts.


    Before long, the head bodyguard showed up with the day''s team of three, standing in front of Evangeline.


    She sat on the couch, eyeing the four of them like a queen assessing her court.


    The guy at the front was a tower of strength, with an air ofmand that made him stand out in any crowd.


    Evangeline only needed one nce to think that someone like him working as a bodyguard was like using a diamond to cut ss.

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    Chapter 283


    "What''s your name?"


    To Evangeline, the Foster family''s little princess, bodyguards were just part of the furniture. Why bother remembering a bodyguard''s name?


    She was curious about this man who stood out from the rest.


    He stepped forward, bowing with a respect that was almost reverent. "Miss, I''m Spencer rk," he said. "Nice name,"plimented Evangeline without holding back, then turned her attention to the other three.


    "I''ve brought you here to talk about Lydia''s disappearance. She was your responsibility, and somehow, a person in aa has managed to vanish on your watch without you guys noticing a thing?"


    She could not swallow that story. She wanted answers, and she wanted them immediately.


    Spencer''s face was full of regret as he began to exin.


    "We really dropped the ball, but it''s also incredibly odd. We''ve been keeping an eye on Miss Lydia without a hitch, but yesterday, when it mattered most, all four of us came down with something fierce. We were practically tripping over each other to get to bathroom." Evangeline eyed the four of them. They were as pale as ghosts, clearly drained from their ordeal.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "So, you left Lydia by herself in her room?"


    The exnation made Lydia''s vanishing act seem a bit less mysterious. She must have found her chance


    to bolt.


    "No way," Spencer quickly rified, "we''re aware of how important Lydia is, so we never all left for a bathroom break at the same time. Someone was always on guard outside her room. But after she went missing, I grilled all three of them, and nobody saw anything." "This is just bizarre! How does someone like Lydia just disappear into thin air from a hospital? That''s impossible!"


    Evangeline was stumped, resting her chin in her hand, lost in thought.


    Spencer had a lightbulb moment and blurted out, "Miss, we should check the hospital''s security footage. Whether Lydia woke up or not, now that she''s gone, the hospital has to help us out and let us see the tapes."


    Evangeline dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand. "If the culprit was bold enough to pull this off right under our watch, they''d have thought about the cameras. They''re probably covered. It''d be a waste of time to check.


    "What I can''t wrap my head around is, you guys were supposed to be watching Lydia all the time, right? If you didn''t see how she slipped away, didn''t you at least spot some weirdo or something?"


    "In a hospital, you''ve got doctors, nurses, and patients no room for weirdos." Spencer was lost in his memories, mumbling to himself.


    What he did not realize was that Evangeline''sment had just jogged the memory of a bodyguard


    standing behind him.


    "Miss, if we''re talking weirdos, I actually did see someone odd.


    "I had just taken over the night shift when I spotted someone in the hallway who stood out from the rest. She had the same build as Ms. Julia, cloaked in a dark dress that screamed elegance. But what really caught my attention was her expression-it was all wrong. "You see, Lydia''s ward is quiet and sad, a ce for those lost in a vegetative state, their lives sustained by machines. Visitors here are usually somber and weary, and they don''t show any joy. But she had a smile in her eyes, and she looked excited."

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    Chapter 284 Chapter 284


    Evangeline could not shake the image of Minnie when the man mentioned the dark dress. This enigmatic girl who hade back with Alex to Avalon City, always draped in skirts, suddenly sprang to mind.


    It was the bodyguard''s remark that sparked the connection.


    Minnie had always seemed familiar to Evangeline, like a face from a half-remembered dream. Whenever she tried to ce her, her memory would fog up.


    Piecing together Julia''s silhouette with Minnie''s, and considering the girl''s impressive talent with the violin, Evangeline was almost convinced-Minnie had to be the long-lost Julia.


    After all, Lydia was Julia''s mother. Reuniting after such a long absence would naturally be a shock full of joy.


    However, suspicions alone would not cut it. Evangeline needed proof, and she needed it badly. It was time to dig up the truth.


    Was Minnie not supposed to be Alex''s studer If so, she had to be at Avalon University out with Alex.


    Evangeline did not waste a second. She grabbed her stuff, jumped to her feet, and headed straight for Avalon University.


    She had to find out if Minnie, fresh from abroad, was really the long-lost Julia.


    Thanks to Walter and Evangeline, two of the biggest names on the Inte, Avalon University was a hotspot, practically a celebrity selfie shrine. Some fans even camped out at the front gates, hoping for a glimpse of the stars. Evangeline nced at the crowd of strangers at the gate, itching to get inside.


    Lucky for her, the security guard recognized her instantly. He hit the electronic lock and waved her through, and she zoomed into the campus.


    In the brief moment it took to hit the brakes, snippets of conversation wafted through her open car


    window.


    "Did you hear? The Gordon family, Mr. Walter Gordon, he showed up at the music department today!"


    "No way, Mr. Walter Gordon''s a finance guy. What''s he doing at the music department?"


    The skeptic got a confident reply,


    "It''s true, someone saw him go in. And why the music department? Maybe he''s here to scoop up Evangeline, the Foster family''s darling, and take her home?"


    The rumor mill churned as the listeners snickered.


    "You''re way too optimistic," someone snickered behind her. "Ms. Evangeline didn''t even show up today. Between you and me, I bet the rumors about that couple''s divorce aren''t just rumors!" Evangeline could not care less about the gossip, but wait...


    Was Walter here too?


    Why on earth would he be here? Did he notice how much Minnie and Julia look alike and was hoping to rekindle an old romance?


    A wave of irritation flooded through her, and Evangeline hit the brakes hard, bringing her car to an abrupt


    halt.


    By some stroke of luck, there on the yground, she spotted Minnie inside a ssroom on the ground floor of the school building.


    Of course, it was difficult to miss her, thanks to the zing red dress Minnie had on today. Evangeline could not ignore it even if she tried. She had to remind herself, Walter did not matter. She was here on a mission-to uncover if Minnie really was her sister Julia.


    As she stepped into the ssroom and came face-to-face with Minnie, Evangeline felt a strange calm.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    School was out, and the room was deserted, just Evangeline and Minnie.


    Minnie was at the podium, carefully polishing her violin as if it were a priceless treasure passed down through generations.


    "Quite the coincidence, Ms. Evangeline," said Minnie, breaking the silence with a greeting and a wave, pausing her meticulous cleaning.

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    Chapter 285


    Evangeline forced a smile, a mere twitch of her lips. "Coincidence? I do not think so. I''m here for you."


    Leaning against the desk with a nt, she was the picture ofid-back grace, calm in every way.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Minnie''s eyebrow raised, and she said with a touch of surprise, "Did youe looking for me on purpose? Wow, I''m pretty honored."


    "No biggie. I felt bad about you getting embarrassed at the birthday party, so I thought I''d make it up to you by grabbing a bite together."


    Evangeline nned to use the casual chit-chat over food as a way to subtly quiz Minnie.


    To her surprise, Minnie snapped her violin case shut with a look of regret. "Oops, sorry about that. I''ve got ns today,"


    Her voice sounded sorry, but her face? Not a hint of it. Her eyes darted past Evangeline, shining with smug satisfaction.


    "Talk about bad timing..." Evangeline followed Minnie''s gaze as she spoke.


    There was Walter, strolling over to them in a white casual suit, every step oozing elegance. He looked like he had stepped right out of a fairy tale as the dashing prince.


    To Evangeline, his presence was like a dagger to the heart.


    They had just shared a tender moment, and here he was, off to meet another girl...


    Taking a deep breath, Evangeline pushed down the anger and hurt bubbling inside her.


    She had braced herself after overhearing whispers earlier. Otherwise, who knew if she would be able to keep it together?


    "Looks like Mr. Walter Gordon got there first, getting a date with you. Guess that makes me the odd one


    out!"


    She shed a brilliant smile, her eyes yfully fixed on Walter and Minnie as they stood together. Evangeline''s kind gesture was supposed to be nice, but little did she know, it really ticked Walter off. He had ns with Minnie, and Evangeline was clueless. Did she not care at all?


    If she had just looked a bit annoyed, Walter would have felt better about his own tangled feelings. However, he shook off that dazed look and moved on.


    He knew he was not the one Evangeline dreamed about, so why expect her to get jealous over him? It was always him, wishing on a star, foolish to think she would ever look his way.


    The vibe between the three was super awkward, but Minnie calmly broke the silence like a professional.


    "Don''t get it twisted, Ms. Evangeline. Mr. Walter Gordon was just doing a school check-up, and I was his guide. Now that we''re done, I''ve got some questions for him, so I asked him out to grab a bite." Minnie''s voice was emotionless, but her eyes were telling a different story, all soft and mushy when she


    said ''Mr. Walter Gordon'', like she had a crush or something.


    Evangeline''s smile turned into a grimace. Was she being upstaged by a homewrecker?


    "What''s there to get wrong? Walter and I are on thest leg of our marriage. Why would I care who he shares a meal with? I''m not about to waste my time on just anybody," she said, throwing shade at both Walter and Minnie. N


    Walter''s face turned all shades of mad. Minnie remained unfazed as if Evangeline''s burn went right over her head.


    Evangeline shot Minnie a frosty look and snorted mockingly.


    "Don''t start celebrating just yet. Walter''s got a thing for my sister Julia, not you. And even if you''re up for his little flings, who says he wants to keep you around?"

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    Chapter 286 Chapter


    286


    The room went from buzzing to dead silent in a heartbeat.


    Walter''s cheeks burned, and he then scowled. Evangeline could almost taste his anger, sparked by her cutting words.


    Well, well, Walter was ticked off!


    Her eyes flicked to Minnie, who was practically glowing with je y


    "Mr. Walter Gordon is really into that Julia girl, huh? I have to admit, I''m a bit green with envy. She has to be something special, right? How else could she get Mr. Walter Gordon''s heart?"


    Evangeline could not quite put her finger on the mix of daze and longing in Minnie''s eyes. She had meant to stir the pot by dropping Julia''s name, but had she somehow be Minnie''s wingman instead? Suddenly, this felt like thest ce Evangeline wanted to be.


    With a huff, she spun on her heel and stormed out.


    Walter''s voice floated after her.


    "Ms. Kast, you''re pretty amazing yourself. No need to sell yourself short."


    What Evangeline missed, as she marched away, was the sly trace of Walter''s fingers over his violin case and the mischievous sparkle in his eyes. "You two could be twins, you know. She''s a violin enthusiast too. Evangeline was fuming on the Avalon University Music Department''s sports field, too angry for words.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Minnie was clearly ying coy with Walter, but Walter, clueless as ever, was busy flirting with her? Really?


    Evangeline tried to calm down as she leaned against the high bar, her gazending on the basketball yers hustling on the court. She did not mind giving them a good look-over.


    An eye candy was not a bad constion prize when the real deal was out of reach...


    Evangeline managed to shove thoughts of Walter, the jerk, to the back of her mind. She was just about to bounce when her phone red to life.


    It was Alex calling. Without hesitation, she hit ''answer.


    "Alex?"


    His voice was like a cozy nket, all warm and solid, floating through the phone. "Evie, are you at school?"


    "Yeah, how''d you know?" She looked around, puzzled.


    It was ast-minute decision toe, and she had not told a soul, not even Walter.


    "What if I said I could read your mind?" teased Alex.


    Too bad Evangeline was too taken aback to catch the flirtation.


    "Alex, you know I don''t buy into that stuff."


    He chuckled, a bit awkwardly, realizing she missed his drift.


    Then he rapped on the ss nearby.


    *25 BONUS


    Knock, knock, knock! The sound quickly grabbed Evangeline''s attention, and she turned to see that Alex was right next to her, in the music ssroom.


    It was obvious that Alex had spotted her steadying herself on the yground before he called.


    Evangeline signaled for him to wait and then humed over to where Alex was


    She had been meaning to have a chat with Alex even if he had not reached out to her.


    Minnie was, after all, a student Alex had brought over from


    about her


    eas, so he probably knew a thing or two


    Evangeline figured she might be able to pick up some leads from Alex.


    As Evangeline walked into the ssroom, Alex was still by the window, just turned around in his


    wheelchair to face the door.


    So the moment Evangeline entered, she found herself looking straight into Alex''s eyes. She coolly nced at the clock. Chapter 287

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    Chapter 287


    "Alex, isn''t it past your clock-out time? What''s keeping you at school?"


    Alex, being the unique music teacher at Avalon University, had his work hours tailored to his own. timetable.


    Alex gave an embarrassed chuckle, maneuvered his wheelchair closer, and said, "The nicer the school is to me, the more I feel I shouldn''t just coast along, you know?"


    Evangeline paused for a moment, not quite catching his drift.


    "Actually, a couple of students were struggling with the basics, so I stayed back to give them a hand with their technique. Just as we wrapped up the extra session, I spotted you out on the field." Alex offered an easy exnation and casually asked angeline, "Why are you here? You don''t have sses today, right? What''s up with the surprise vis


    The question caught Evangeline off guard, and she suddenly thought of Walter, who was all over Minnie like they were glued together.


    "Just killing time," she shrugged. "Thought I''d swing by the school and get a taste of the good old days, you know?"


    Even as she said it, Evangeline could barely believe her own words.


    What else was she supposed to say? Confess that she was here to spy on Walter? Was she to outright tell Alex she was snooping on his star pupil Minnie? Neither option seemed like a good idea.


    Alex looked at her with a mix of surprise and skepticism. "Really? You don''t need to worry about the family business anymore?"


    The weight of Foster Group was practically resting on Evangeline''s shoulders alone. If she imed she was just here to stroll with no hidden agenda, he would not buy it for a second.


    The thought made Alex feel a twinge of unease.


    It was not that he wanted to pry into Evangeline''s private life, but the idea that she had secrets she was not sharing with him... That stung a bit.


    Evangeline waved off the concern with a flick of her wrist. "I haven''t been involved with thepany stuff for ages. You''re out of the loop, aren''t you? I roped in a good friend to take over as CEO. Since he''s been in charge, I''ve been pretty much free as a bird..." She let out a forced chuckle, only to hear him say with a knowing tone, "Evie, you''re here for Walter, aren''t you?"Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Alex''s features mirrored Walter''s so closely that it was uncanny, his eyes a deep, inky ck that seemed to hold a world ofplex emotions: Evangeline, with her private musings unexpectedly exposed, could not afford to dwell on the depth of his gaze. "No way, I just stopped by on a whim..." She scrambled for an excuse, countering the implication.


    exactly a stretch of the truth; she had only learned of Walter''s visit after arriving at school.


    there''s


    no shame ining here for Walter. Why y hide and seek with me?"


    gave her a knowing look.


    day had been packed with back-to-back sses, and he had only just gotten the scoop from Minnie about Walter''s school inspection.


    "Not at all." Evangeline offered an embarrassed smile.


    Her one-sided crush on Walter was an open book to Alex; there was no point in trying to conceal it.


    "If that''s the case, then great. I just hope we can stay as close as we''ve always been, without any awkwardness creeping in."


    Alex''s suddenment caught Evangeline off guard, leaving her at a loss for words.


    As their eyes locked, Alex went on, "Evie, I''m back from overseas now, and one by one, the friends I used to know have drifted away. You''re the only or eft. If you start to drift away too..."


    77

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    The mood shifted to a somber note, tugging at Evangeline''s heartstrings.


    She still had not mustered the courage to ask about the mystery of Alex''s legs, his eyes always carrying a kind of sadness that made her questions die in her throat.


    "Alex, I''ll always be nice to you. Don''t worry about that, okay?"


    Alex had been incredibly brave, more than Evangeline had realized. If she had to switch from being healthy to relying on a wheelchair just to get around, she was not sure she could have handled it. Seeing Alex, her heart ached even more for him. "Hey, how about we go for a little adventure outside? Back when you were at Avalon University, I was still in high school. I always wished we could''ve been on the same campus."


    While talking, Evangeline started wheeling Alex toward the door. His voice, full of surprise and happiness, stopped her. "You wanted to be at the same school as me?"


    "Of course! You''re amazing. If you taught me just one or two of your tricks, I''d be the queen of my ss in no time," she joked, but inside, she was determine lift his spirits.


    Avalon University''s music department had a touch of artistry to it, which showed in the campus''s creativeyout. There were murals, secluded woods, and the soft purple of lcs blooming in every nook and cranny.


    Evangeline adored the smell of lcs. She pushed Alex to a blooming bush, stretched her arms wide, and inhaled deeply. "Ah, that''s the stuff!"


    Alex looked at the flowers, but his eyes lingered on Evangeline. With a wistful tone, he said, "Evie, sometimes I wish things could stay just like this forever."


    It took her a moment to catch on, but when she did, she locked eyes with him. "Stay like this? What''s the


    fun in that?"


    She moved closer to Alex, leaned down, and gently flicked a petal off his shoulder. "We''ve got to mix it up. For starters, you need a gorgeous gal by your side, and I need a dashing guy. We all deserve our own slice of happiness, right?" Whenever that subject came up, Evangeline''s thoughts inevitably drifted to Walter.


    Walter was handsome, but too bad the chances of him being by her side were slim to none. She might as well hope for their son to grow up and be her constantpanion.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Alex''s gaze was distant, lost in some private contemtion.


    After a moment, he offered a small smile. "Yeah, being blissfully happy is what it''s all about."


    Noticing Alex''s brow eased slightly, Evangeline quickly guided the conversation toward something that piqued her interest.


    "Alex, tell me about your adventures overseas. You''ve been away for so many years, on your own... It must''ve been tough." Evangeline was clueless about the ordeal the Gordon family had gone through back then.


    "I know, it''s just.... I''m not ready to let go."


    *25 BONUS


    The feeling of being wronged washed over her like a wave, and Evangeline could not hold back the tears any longer.


    She had tried so hard to be with Walter, and it was bad enough not to live up to Julia, his cherished first love, but to be surpassed by Minnie, ater...


    "So Alex, I''m begging you, can you fill me in on everything you know?"


    Alex''s heart softened as he looked into her tear-filled eyes.


    "To be honest, I don''t have all the details about Minnie''s family, just that she''s got some heavy hitters in her corner, a family with influence and mystery, who keep to the shadows unless it''s absolutely necessary.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 289

    her questions die in her throat.


    "Alex, I''ll always be nice to you. Don''t worry about that, okay?"


    Alex had been incredibly brave, more than Evangeline had realized. If she had to switch from being healthy to relying on a wheelchair just to get around, she was not sure she could have handled it. Seeing Alex, her heart ached even more for him. "Hey, how about we go for a little adventure outside? Back when you were at Avalon University, I was still in high school. I always wished we could''ve been on the same campus."


    While talking, Evangeline started wheeling Alex toward the door. His voice, full of surprise and happiness, stopped her. "You wanted to be at the same school as me?"


    "Of course! You''re amazing. If you taught me just one or two of your tricks, I''d be the queen of my ss in no time," she joked, but inside, she was determine lift his spirits.


    Avalon University''s music department had a touch of artistry to it, which showed in the campus''s creativeyout. There were murals, secluded woods, and the soft purple of lcs blooming in every nook and


    cranny.


    Evangeline adored the smell of lcs. She pushed Alex to a blooming bush, stretched her arms wide, and inhaled deeply. "Ah, that''s the stuff!"


    Alex looked at the flowers, but his eyes lingered on Evangeline. With a wistful tone, he said, "Evie, sometimes I wish things could stay just like this forever."


    It took her a moment to catch on, but when she did, she locked eyes with him. "Stay like this? What''s the


    fun in that?"


    She moved closer to Alex, leaned down, and gently flicked a petal off his shoulder. "We''ve got to mix it up. For starters, you need a gorgeous gal by your side, and I need a dashing guy. We all deserve our own slice of happiness, right?" Whenever that subject came up, Evangeline''s thoughts inevitably drifted to Walter.


    Walter was handsome, but too bad the chances of him being by her side were slim to none. She might as well hope for their son to grow up and be her constantpanion.


    Alex''s gaze was distant, lost in some private contemtion.


    After a moment, he offered a small smile. "Yeah, being blissfully happy is what it''s all about."


    Noticing Alex''s brow eased slightly, Evangeline quickly guided the conversation toward something that piqued her interest.


    "Alex, tell me about your adventures overseas. You''ve been away for so many years, on your own... It must''ve been tough." Evangeline was clueless about the ordeal the Gordon family had gone through back then.


    "I know, it''s just.... I''m not ready to let go."


    *25 BONUS


    The feeling of being wronged washed over her like a wave, and Evangeline could not hold back the tears any longer.


    She had tried so hard to be with Walter, and it was bad enough not to live up to Julia, his cherished first love, but to be surpassed by Minnie, ater...


    "So Alex, I''m begging you, can you fill me in on everything you know?"


    Alex''s heart softened as he looked into her tear-filled eyes.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "To be honest, I don''t have all the details about Minnie''s family, just that she''s got some heavy hitters in her corner, a family with influence and mystery, who keep to the shadows unless it''s absolutely necessary. Chapter 290

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    Chapter 290


    Alex had a way with words that made it seem like he was saying a lot, but when Evangeline really listened, there was not much there at all.


    "Ever seen her family around?" Evangeline was on a mission for the truth because she had a hunch that Minnie was actually Julia in disguise.


    If Minnie really had a family, then Evangeline was probably barking up the wrong tree.


    Alex''s eyes flickered, and in their dark depths, only Evangeline''s slim shadow was reflected.


    Their eyes locked, and Alex gave a small shake of his head. "I''ve never met Minnie''s family. I only heard about them from the boss when he brought Minnie on as my student." Evangeline breathed a small sigh of relief. At least half of the weight on her chest lifted.


    For a second, she was scared stiff that Alex would drop the bomb-that Minnie really did have a family of


    her own.


    Alex''s vague response was oddlyforting.


    She did not know how Julia could have turned into Minnie, but if there was one thing she knew about Julia, it was that Minnie had to be her.


    The vibe between them was all kinds of weird. Alex''s eyes were deep pools, and then he cracked a casual


    grin.


    "Well, Evie, you''re here anyway. Why not lend me a hand?"


    ""With what?"


    Evangeline''s mind was a mess. Alex was a jack-of-all-trades, and she could not for the life of her figure out what she could do to help.


    That was when Alex lifted his right hand.


    Evangeline zeroed in and saw a bandage on his index finger that she had not noticed before.


    "What happened to your hand?" Evangeline''s gaze was drawn to Alex, whose eyes were brimming with


    worry..N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Alex awkwardly pulled back his hand and sidestepped the question, "I''ve patched up the cut, but the violin I need for tomorrow''s lesson has a snapped string. You know how fiddly restringing and tuning can be, and with my finger like this, I can''t do it..." It was rather obvious what kind of help Alex was hinting at.


    "That''s it? Why didn''t you just say so?" Evangeline was already a fan of the violin, so tuning Alex''s instrument was no big deal. Why put it off?


    She pushed his wheelchair, sharing jokes andughter as they made their way to the music room where the violin awaited.


    Unbeknownst to her, from a ssroom window on the third floor, Walter caught a glimpse of that familiar


    vec briofly shing red with fury.


    ? 25 CARS


    Just then, Minnie strolled up, violin in hand, perfectly in tune. "Mr. Walter Gordon, did I catch you daydreaming about me?"


    Her smile was subtle, like ripples on a stillke, mesmerizing and enchanting as they spread.


    The red in Walter''s eyes vanished as if it had never been reced by a yful smirk aimed at the tender- hearted Minnie. "Absolutely, just seeing you is enough to make my day, Ms. Kast. Listening to the violin is just a bonus..." His voice was a low drawl, dripping with allure and a hint of mischief. Minnie blushed, her gaze locked on him, her sharp wit suddenly tripping over her word music, you have to listen to it."


    violin, the


    The violin''s tender notes danced through the ssroom, and as the final note hung in the air, the lone audience member burst into a round of hearty apuse.

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    Chapter 291


    Alex shook off the spell of the music, dropped his hands, and let his heart do the talking.


    "Evie, the music world is missing out big time without you ying the violin."


    Evangeline packed up her violin, which she had just finished tuning, and shrugged off thepliment. The music world is full of what-ifs, and I''m not that big of a deal. Alex, if you keep this up, I''m going to feel outssed..."


    Sometimes, Evangeline was amazed by the quirks of destiny.


    Alex and Walter had a simr face, yet she could always spot the difference bet


    them with ease.


    Looking at Alex, she wondered how she would feel if Walter were the one in the audience, pping for her. She would probably be over the moon.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    How silly


    Evangeline suppressed a smirk and pushed those weird thoughts to the back of her mind.


    Just then, a phone''s ringing cut through the silence of the ssroom. It took a moment for Evangeline to realize it was Walter on the line.


    What was his deal? Was he not supposed to be out with Minnie? Why was he calling me?


    She let out a snort, hung up, and shut off her phone.


    Alex saw it all, figured Evangeline just did not want to take a call in front of him, and felt a pang of sadness. He tried to sound casual as he probed, "Wasn''t that a call for you? Why didn''t you pick up?" Evangeline''s phone was already off by then. She tossed it into her bag and replied with a carefree tone," Just some nobody. Why bother picking up?"


    Alex did not press for details. His dark eyes sparkled as he whispered a soft invitation, "Hanging out here is pretty dull. Why not swing by my dorm? I''ve been back for ages, and you haven''t even seen my ce yet..." On the other end of the line, Walter was met with a dead tone. His face turned stormy, and when he tried calling back, Evangeline''s phone was off!


    Great. Just great.


    Walter was shaking with rage, tossing his phone aside before peeling out in his car.


    He slumped in the living room of Crystal Waters House, ring at his silent phone, a sour taste of bitterness in his mouth.


    It was the middle of the day, after all. Evangeline meeting up with Alex should not be a big deal. He refused to believe that Evangeline, a married woman, would have the audacity to stay out all night. However, he had seriously underestimated her.


    As the night wore on, there was still no sign of Evangeline. Every call he made was greeted by the chilling sound of a phone switched off.


    The clock in the living room was inching toward 10 p.m., and Walter''s patience snapped. He grabbed his keys and stormed out.


    Ever since Alex got back, he had not been staying with the Gordons but had settled into a dorm arranged by the school.


    Back then, Walter was too concerned with appearances to dig into why Alex had been kicked out. Fueled by a vague memory of the address, he was on a mission to find his wife at that very ce. The whole situation was maddening!


    Walter''s car zipped through the streets, and when he arrived at Alex''s dorm, he bolted up the stairs with lightning speed.


    Meanwhile, Evangeline and Alex werefortable with one another, and she felt right at home whenever she visited his ce.


    With a do-it-yourself spirit, she decided to whip up a ss of fresh orange juice for each of them.


    However, disaster struck at that very moment. While bringing a ss over to Alex, her foot betrayed her with a slip.


    She barely caught herself with Alex''s quick help, but her clothes bore the brunt of the orange juice assault.

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    Chapter 292


    Right then, Evangeline stared down at the messy orange splotch on her front.


    "Uh... I need to hit the restroom."


    Evangeline quickly shrugged off Alex''s steadying hand and dashed into the restroom, hoping for a miracle.


    However, the stain was a fashion disaster of epic proportions, beyond any quick fix.


    Gazing at her messy reflection, Evangeline''s heart sank. How on earth could she show her face at Crystal Waters House? Walter would have a field day!


    At that moment, a knock came from outside the restroom door.


    "Evie, you won''t be able to do anything with your clothes. Change into something else. I''ve got a set of sample clothes a friend sent over for me to check out. I''ve left them at the door for you, see if they fit."


    Alex, ever the artist, had a wide circle of creative pals. It was not unusual for him to get fashion samples from designer friends for his opinion.


    Evangeline''s worry took a different turn. "You''re supposed to give those back, right? If I wear them..." How


    would she return them?


    Alex''s voice cut through her concern from the other side of the door.


    "Don''t sweat it, it''s just a sample. Wear it with peace of mind. Anyway, he''d be over the moon to have you, the Foster family''s very own princess, modeling for him!"


    Evangeline did not hesitate any longer. She cracked the bathroom door just enough to slip the sample dress inside. She was relieved that she had dressed warmly. The orange juice had only soaked the outeryer, leaving her clothes underneath dry and unscathed. Alex had sent over a sample of a champagne-colored,dylike tweed jacket with a vintage vibe, yet the details screamed modern chic. It was, without a doubt, a stunning piece.


    When she stepped out of the bathroom, Alex was so awestruck he could hardly believe his eyes. "I used to think this outfit was kind of nd, and I was going to suggest my buddy tweak the design a bit. But now I see it was not the clothes that were the problem; they just hadn''t found the right person to wearText content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    them."


    Alex did not outrightpliment her, but the way he put it, he might as well have said Evangeline''s beauty was out of this world.


    "You don''t really mean that, do you?" Evangeline giggled, a bit embarrassed. "Alex, you''re too picky. This design is gorgeous, and you''re still finding faults?"


    They were in the middle of their light-hearted banter when a loud knocking interrupted them. "Alex, let me


    in!"


    The voice that filled the stairwell was all too familiar, and Evangeline could not ignore it even if she tried. Walter was crossing a line. No matter what, Alex was his older brother. How could he be so informal? Moreover, just thinking about Minnie''s sweet, soft invitation made Evangeline''s blood boil. She did not even want toy eyes on Walter, but he was here, and there was no escaping it. She braced herself to see Chapter 292


    what he wanted this time!


    Evangeline lounged on the couch, her fingers dancing over the quirky little gadget Alex had left on the coffee table. Alex wheeled himself over to the door and swung it open. Instantly, Walter''s booming voice filled the room, loud enough to rattle the windows. "Alex, is Evangeline over there with you?!"


    Evangeline''s first instinct was to mp her hands over her ears, but she could not help thinking how shockingly boorish Walter was being. She had never seen him like this. His voice was gruff, his usually handsome face was beet red, and his forehead was lined with angry veins. Who would have thought that Walter from the prestigious Gordon family could lose hisposure like


    this?

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    Walter looked nothing like his usual refined self, instead resembling a hulking brute with more brawn than


    brains.


    Alex was momentarily speechless, baffled by the confrontation.


    Evangeline, however, did not miss a beat. She casually crossed her legs with poise and called out," Walter, I''m right here."


    She even gave him a yful wave of her finger as she spoke.


    "What''s the big idea, showing up here in the middle of the night, yelling and pounding on the door? What''s your deal?"


    Walter''s face turned stormy in an instant, and he red at Evangeline with a menacing scowl. "You''re asking what I''m doing? You really have no clue?"


    His gaze narrowed dangerously, a threatening glint shing in his eyes.


    He had never seen Evangeline''s outfit before. So, not only had she note home tonight, but she had also changed her clothes for her visit to Alex''s ce? Walter''s anger zed like wildfire, and he turned his furious re onto Alex.


    "What did you do to Evangeline?"


    Alex''s heart skipped a beat as he sensed trouble brewing. The look on Walter''s face when he had eyed Evangeline''s outfit earlier shed in his mind, and he rushed to clear the air. "Walter, you''ve got it all wrong. You''re misunderstanding me and Evie..."


    "Evie?" Walter''s voice dripped with sarcasm. "Still calling her Evie, huh? Alex, Evangeline and I aren''t divorced yet. Until we sign those papers, she''s your sister-inw. Is it really cool for you, my brother, to be so close with her?" Alex''s face turned beet red, his well-rehearsed exnations stuck in his throat.


    Evang��line was not about to back down.


    "What''s the big deal? You say Alex is your brother, but you still talk to him like he''s a stranger, Walter, I think Alex should be the one asking if what you''re doing is cool or not!"


    "How dare you!" Walter''s anger erupted. He did not even care that Alex was there. In a swift move, he was at Evangeline''s side, grabbing her wrist and dragging her out the door.


    Alex, confined to his wheelchair, could not intervene. Evangeline, no match for Walter''s strength and fury, was helpless.


    Walter hauled Evangeline down the stairs and into the back of his car.


    Evangeline thought that would be the end of it. To her surprise, Walter climbed in too, settling himself right next to her. The streetlights cast shadows on his face, and all she could hear were his heavy, angry breaths.


    "Out with it! What were you and Alex up to?"Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The question hit Evangeline out of nowhere, like she had been caught red-handed.


    Evangeline had nothing to hide, and she was not about to let Walter intimidate her. She shot back, "One''s Alex, the other''s your wife. What do you think we could possibly be up to?"


    "You stayed out all night and even changed your clothes, and you''re still talking tough?"


    Walter was beside himself with disbelief.


    The thought that Evangeline might have been up to something intimate with Alex sent him into a blind rage, burning away thest shreds of his sanity.


    In a fit of anger, he grabbed at her woolen jacket so fiercely that the buttons popped off, exposing her pale skin.


    Evangeline''s hands flew to cover herself, but Walter''s erratic usations keptiny.


    "Did he rip your clothes off like this? Did he kiss your shoulders? Did he touch your body?"

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    As Walter grilled Evangeline, his mind was racing with silent calctions.


    If nothing happened, why did Evangeline change her clothes at Alex''s ce? What could they have possibly done that was so intense it warranted a change of clothes? The more he thought about it, the angrier he got. The fire inside him grew wilder.


    The car was cramped, and Walter''s attention turned menacingly to Evangeline''s lower half.


    Her small frame was trapped, and when he started to pull away her clothes, she had no room to fight back.


    Realizing what Walter was about to do, Evangeline was struck with horror. "Walter, if this, I''ll hate you forever!"


    She was the cherished princess of the Foster family, the jewel in her uncles'' crowns.


    o through with


    Walter was treating Evangeline like she was just there for his pleasure, ready at his beck and call.


    She had feelings for Walter, no doubt about it, but she would never stand for being treated with such disrespect.


    Sadly, Walter was too caught up in his rage and jealousy over Alex to see clearly.


    His mind was fixated on one thing only-he had to im Evangeline as his own!


    The mere idea that Alex might have been with her in their special ce drove Walter mad with the need to prove he was the one who truly belonged there. "Hate? Evangeline, you think you have the right to talk about hate?"


    A wife who did note home at night, who had been with her husband''s brother, and even changed her


    clothes when found...


    Walter could not bear to think of what else might have happened!


    "Why don''t I check if you''ve been unfaithful to me with Alex, huh?"


    "No!" Evangeline shook her head frantically, "Walter, you can''t do this to me!"


    She was innocent with Alex, and it was Walter who was being unreasonable. How could he doubt her like


    that?


    Walter was not listening to Evangeline anymore.


    He made her turn over, her back to him, making it easier for him to do what he intended.


    This was not how someone who had just been intimate would act.


    He had gotten it all wrong about Evangeline.


    Like a jolt of electricity, Walter pulled away, and as he had done before, he forcefully turned Evangeline around, only to be met with a face wet with tears. "Evangeline..."


    At that moment, her beautiful eyes were brimming with resentment.


    Evangeline''s eyes zed with a mix of fury and utter despair. This was Walter, the guy she had fallen for, hard. She had poured her whole heart into loving him, and what did she get back? A cold, hard p of disgrace. Imagine that-the Foster family''s darling princess, used of cheating by her own husband, and then put through the ultimate walk of shame in front of everyone.


    She had messed up big time, thinking her whole future was with Walter, dragging her family''s good name through the mud along with her.


    She could not have been more wrong.


    Walter, on the other hand, was freaking out.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    For the first time ever, he was terrified-scared of the look in a girl''s eyes.


    In a total panic, he grabbed Evangeline''s hand and said desperately, "Evangeline, please don''t look at me like that. Just hear me out, let me exin."


    He could not even bring himself to meet her gaze, so he covered her eyes with his free hand as if that could calm his racing heart.


    "I was just... just so mad..."


    ""You were mad?"


    Evangeline''s voice was ice as she lightly touched the hand he had over her eyes. She barely put any pressure, but it was like her touch had the force of a ton, and Walter''s hand just dropped away without him even realizing it. Chapter 295

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    Chapter 295


    Evangeline could barely make out Walter''s profile in the dim light by the roadside. "So, you think you can treat me this way just because you''re angry? "Walter, what do you think I am? Some kind of pleasure device?"


    Evangeline''s voice thundered in the cramped car, shaking Walter to his core. She wrenched herself from his grip and fixed her clothes right in front of him.


    At that moment, she was not just Walter''s wife. She was the untouchable, golden girl of the Foster family, and she would not stand for this treatment from any man! Her clothes were thest shred of dignity she clung to in Walter''s presence. "Walter, this is goodbye!" She meant they were done for good.


    Walter''s ears rang with the m of the car door, leaving him in a silence so deep he could near his own heart breaking. He looked around the empty car, feeling a hollow echo inside himself. His undone belt


    and pants were a silent testament to his recent actions.


    In a moment of self-loathing, Walter pped himself hard across the face. How could he have doubted Evangeline? She had been into Alex for years. If she were the type to flit from guy to guy, she would have ended up with Alex ages ago. ''Why would she wait? Walter, you fool, jealousy had you seeing red, and you lost your head!''


    He had to make it right. He had to apologize to Evangeline!


    Walter desperately snatched up his phone like it was hisst lifeline. He keyed in Evangeline''s number with the ease of someone who had done it a million times. However, instead of the usual dead air, a robotic voice answered this time.


    "Sorry, the number you have dialed is currently unavable..."


    Walter did not know whether tough or cry. He chuckled because Evangeline had finally turned her phone back on, but he was also disappointed because she clearly did not want to talk to him at the moment.


    Whatever. If she did not want to pick up, that was her call. It was his fault, after all.


    He opened his messaging app, figuring he would drop Evangeline a note. Once she calmed down, she would surely read it.


    He sent a cautious emoji first, only to get pped with a message saying she had blocked him.


    Blocked. Just like that. No chance to exin or anything.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Staring at the ''message rejected'' alert, Walter''s brain hit a wall. He had no idea what to do next.


    Evangeline had just walked through her door and plopped onto the couch when her phone rang. It was Alex.


    "Evie, are you doing okay?"


    The whole mess had blown up so fast. Before Alex could even wrap his head around it, Walter had whisked Evangeline away. Since he was the reason they had fought in the first ce, he felt guilty, and it showed in his voice.


    "I''m fine, really."


    Evangeline poured herself a ss of ice-cold water, slouched onto the couch, and slowly drank.


    She knew she should steer clear of ice water while trying to get pregnant, but she was too enraged. Only


    the cold could calm her.

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    Chapter 296N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    "Alex, the drama between me and Walter is not your problem, so don''t sweat it."


    The fight had kicked off in Alex''s house, but really, it was just old grudges boiling over. Alex was just caught in the crossfire; he did not have anything to do with it.


    Evangeline could tell Alex was probably beating himself over it, so she quickly offered someforting


    words.


    What she did not realize was that her kindness was like a warm nket for Alex''s soul.


    "Evie, I''m alright as long as you''re okay... That''s what counts."


    His words were a whisper, but they were packed with so much honesty that Evangeline could not help it. Her tears just spilled over.


    Feeling so low after Walter''s harsh treatment, Alex''s words lifted her spirits sky-high.


    "Thanks, Alex," she said, meaning every word.


    Nevermind Walter. Alex was the person she needed at this moment, someone to make her feel valued


    when she felt at her worst.


    "No biggie."


    Alex was smiling on the other end of the line, but he still took a moment to give Evangeline a piece of


    advice.


    "You know Walter''s temper better than anyone. He''s hot-headed, and when he blows up, he doesn''t think of anyone else. Comes with being the golden boy of the Gordon family, I guess. They''ve all spoiled him rotten. But Evie, you picked him, so you have to brace yourself for this kind of thing."


    Choosing someone meant taking the good with the bad, or trying to change it.


    "I get it, but hey, I''m young. There''s always time to make a new choice."


    After the car ride from hell, all Evangeline wanted was to cut that jerk Walter out of her life for good. However, her thoughts were a jumbled mess, and she could not bear another second of heartache talking to Alex about it.


    "Let''s drop it, okay? The Walter saga is over, and rehashing it is pointless. Alex, let''s talk about something


    fun."


    It was way past midnight, and while she was off the clock, Alex was still working. Evangeline knew she should just hang up and let him be, but as she nced around her lonely room, she longed for someone''s presence, even if it was just a voice on the phone. "Your wish is mymand!" Alex quipped yfully. Then something seemed to click in his mind. "Hey, aren''t you on the hunt for Lydia?"


    "Yes, but how on earth did you find out?" Evangeline was taken aback; she had never breathed a word of this to Alex.


    He sounded rather embarrassed as he exined, "I overheard Walter giving orders to his guys when I


    swung by the Gordons''. With you two at odds, I''m not sure he''s still in your corner..." Alex trailed off, then picked up again with conviction, "But hey, Evie, don''t sweat it. Whether Walter''s in or out, I''ve got your back. I might''ve been out of the country for ages, but I''ve got some solid friends back home who can make finding someone look like child''s y."


    Evangeline felt a wave of relief wash over her. She never doubted Alex''s knack for getting things done, and the idea that he had connections who could help was beyond reassuring. "Thanks a ton, Alex. Lydia is .really important to me."


    Her reputation-and her mother''s-were on the line.

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    Chapter 297


    Evangeline and Alex traded stories, each one making themugh more than thest.


    Meanwhile, Walter was in a rough spot. He was gutted when he realized Evangeline blocked him.


    Alone, he headed back to Crystal Waters House, only to find that Evangeline had not returned, which sent him into a tailspin. Evangeline was gone, and it looked like she might note back at all.


    That just could not happen.


    He had to see her... he had to make her listen to his side of the story!


    Where could Evangeline have gone? If she was not at Crystal Waters House, where else would she be?


    Cole was sick. Even if she was mad at him, she would not just skip out on visiting Cole, would she?


    Walter felt like he had a lead. He willed himself to sleep and recharge, determined to head over to Cole''s to track down Evangeline.


    Nheless, Evangeline''s determined eyes haunted him, and he tossed and turned all night. With dark bags under his eyes, he got up at the crack of dawn and made his way to the Foster family''s mansion. Cole was on the mend, and with his doctor''s approval, he was back home getting better.


    Walter showed up under the pretense of celebrating Cole''s homing, gifts in tow.


    He barely stepped inside when a staff member took the presents off his hands, and that was when he spotted Evangeline. She was right there behind Cole, massaging his shoulders. Cole was squinting with delight. "Evie, you''ve got the magic touch! Did you take some secret sses or something?" Cole was in heaven, yfully teasing his beloved granddaughter.


    Evangeline''s face betrayed her, showing that her secret was out. Luckily, she was behind Cole, who would have otherwise seen right through her in an instant.


    She steadied her nerves and tried to sound breezy as she said, "My massage is nothing special, just a bit more strength than usual."


    "You''re something else," Cole chuckled, shaking his head, letting the conversation drop.


    He was no stranger to massages, having tried more masseurs than he could count. However,


    Evangeline''s touch was spot-on, both in strength and technique. She had to have put her heart into learning it.


    Still, Cole knew her well enough to understand she had her reasons for ying it down. Why make a fuss with a kid over something so trivial?


    Just then, the sharp click of dress shoes on the floor cut through the air.


    Walter stood before Cole, all politeness and concern. "Grandpa, how are you feeling? I''ve been swamped and only just got the chance toe check on you..."


    He was talking to Cole, but his eyes were busy tracking Evangeline.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Cole was not fooled for a second.


    "Come off it, will you? I''ve been around the block enough times to know how ''busy'' you youngsters can be, *he said with a knowing look.


    He waved Walter over. "Have a seat. Hey, someone get my grandson-inw a cup of tea!"


    Evangeline genuinely did not want to deal with Walter.


    She had been looking forward to catching up with Cole, sharing a fewughs, and spending some quality time with him while she was still job-free. s, of all the rotten luck, Walter had to turn up out of the blue. She acknowledged Cole with a subtle nod. "Grandpa, your chicken soup will be ready in a while. I''m going to check on it."


    Evangeline was just about to head out when she was stopped in her tracks by a pair of arms.


    "Why is it that every time I show up, you''re on your way out? Are you dodging me?"

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    Chapter 298


    Walter could ept Evangeline being mad at him, but it drove him nuts when she dodged him like he was some kind of monster.


    Evangeline could not help butugh. "Why would I be avoiding you?"


    All she wanted was to give him the cold shoulder, in and simple.


    "So you..." Why are you taking off?''


    Walter''s question hung in the air as his phone buzzed to life. He saw the caller ID and epted the call without hesitation. Trey''s voice came through loud and clear. "Walter, do you have any idea how long it''s been since youst dropped by?" The old man''s tone wasced with a touch of longing, obviously hinting that he wanted Walter to pay him a visit.


    That was when Walter realized he had been so wrapped up in Evangelely that he had forgotten visiting Trey. "How about I swing by tomorrow?"


    He thought about saying ''today'', but he had just managed to catch Evangeline, and he had a whole lot to say to her. He could not possibly leave today. Trey was just itching to see Walter and Evangeline, so a day sooner orter did not really matter to him.


    "Alright, but you have to bring Evie with you! I haven''t seen her in ages, and I sure miss her."


    Walter nced at Evangeline. "Sure, I''ll bring her along tomorrow."


    Evangeline had not nned to butt in on this call, but Walter went ahead and made ns without asking her first. She was not about to let that slide.


    "I''ve got work at thepany tomorrow; I can''t make it back. You''ll have to visit him on your own."


    Evangeline was aware that Trey was still on the line, and she did not want to be too blunt, fearing it might upset him. So, she quickly made up some excuse.


    Caught in the middle, Walter squirmed between Trey and Evangeline. He did not even get a chance to speak before Trey picked up on the tension.


    "Walter, be honest with me. Did you upset Evie again?"


    "I..." Walter stuttered, his words failing him. Trey, however, had jumped to conclusions.


    "Walter, you''re in big trouble! Evie''s an amazing girl, and you''re just taking her for granted. What were you thinking? I''m being very serious with you now. If you can''t win back my favorite girl, you might as well forget about being part of the Gordon family!" "Grandpa, please, calm down..."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter was not exactly known for his deference to elders, but being on the receiving end of Trey''s lecture


    was a first for him.


    He was flustered and wanted to clear the air with Trey, but hepletely forgot Evangeline was still there.


    "I''ll leave you two to it. I need some air."


    Trey''s voice was booming, even though the phone was not on speaker mode, Evangeline could hear every word from where she stood.


    She felt that if she stayed, it would only make Walter''s scolding all the more awkward for him.


    Walter tried to stop her from leaving, but Trey''s voice thundered again, and he could do nothing but watch Evangeline walk away.


    He figured there would be time to smooth things over with her after he had set things straight with Trey.


    Evangeline had vanished without a trace, and Walter was left clutching at straws. Fc scoured every corner of Avalon City where she might have been, but she was nowher


    long days, he be found.


    He could not bring himself to trouble Cole, who was bedridden due to his condition, so Walter took matters into his own hands. He staked out the Foster family''s old mansion for two solid days until, atst, he spotted James stepping out. Chapter 299

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    Chapter 299


    Walter did not care if he threw James off his schedule. He nted himself in front of James''s car,


    stubborn as a mule.


    "Walter, when did you sign up for security duty?" asked James sarcastically, stepping out of his car with a sigh. "If you''re going to y watchdog, shouldn''t you be on your own turf? What''s the deal with camping out at my ce?"


    The Fosters had a top-notch security setup. The second Walter took up his post, James got the heads-up from his bodyguards. He knew exactly why Walter was there, even if he pretended otherwise.


    James had figured the high-and-mighty young master would crack after getting the cold shoulder from the Foster n and beat a hasty retreat. Walter was full of surprises, though, holding his ground for two days without budging an inch.


    James had to step in, worried that the ruckus might tip Cole off to something being amiss, It was time to confront Walter head-on.


    Walter could easily pick up on the sarcasm in James'' words, but he had bigger fish to fry. Finding Evangeline was his priority, and he was not in the mood for a squabble.


    "James, Evangeline''s been gone for days. You have to know something about where she is, right?"


    It was like when Julia went missing-Evangeline had immediately pointed fingers at Walter.


    The Gordons were the big shots in the South, and the Fosters ran the North.


    When Evangeline vanished into thin air, Walter''s gut told him the Fosters were keeping her under wraps.


    James let out a mockingugh. "Mr. Walter Gordon, Evie''s your wife. If you don''t have a clue where she''s off to, how do you expect us, her uncles, to know? I should be asking you-where have you kept my niece? The Foster family''s been tearing our hair out looking for her. Got any idea about that?"


    James looked worried and urgent, but his tone said something else.


    "I''m going to ask you one more time. Do you honestly have no idea where she''s gone?" Walter, knowing how fiercely the Foster uncles would guard Evangeline, pressed on with the question.


    "If I knew where she was, would I be here telling you we''re going nuts trying to find her? And after what you''ve done to Evie, even if I did know, I wouldn''t spill the beans to you. Better scoot back to your Gordon turf and quit making a scene at our doorstep!" It was obvious he wanted Walter to go.


    Walter Gordon, usually on top of the world, could not believe he was actually being kicked out. However, anger was a luxury he could not afford at the moment.


    James, being Evangeline''s uncle, had to be worried about her.


    Walter was clueless about where Evangeline could be, though...


    Where could she have gone?


    Then it hit him.


    Roslyn, Evangeline''s best friend.


    Evangeline was not one to have a lot of friends, so if her uncles were in the dark, Roslyn had to be in theText ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    know!


    With that thought, Walter swiftly called his assistant, David.


    "Track down Roslyn''s location, now. I need to see her, and the sooner, the better!"


    David was on it, and within five minutes, he texted the location of the set where Roslyn was working.


    Roslyn was making her mark in showbiz, spending her days on set, learning lines, and shooting scenes. She was so busy that she barely got four or five hours of sleep each night.


    When Walter Gordon dropped in unannounced, Roslyn was anything but thrilled.


    If he had not messed with her line rehearsal, she might actually get her full five hours of sleep on this night


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''m swamped. If you''ve got something to say, make it quick."

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    Chapter 300


    If it were not for Walter''s high status, and considering how he had treated Evangeline, Roslyn would not even waste a second nce at him.


    Yet there she was, in the cutthroat world of entertainment, where crossing Walter could spell disaster for her career. Thus, for the sake of her paycheck, she yed along. "Sorry for taking up your time."


    Walter was not the type to apologize. With his high-flying status, people usually tripped over themselves to please him. Why would anyone be annoyed with him?


    He understood why Roslyn might be ticked off with him, though. Since he needed her help, he would have to suck it up, no matter how much it stung.


    "Evangeline''s been missing for days. You got any clue where she might be?"


    Roslyn blinked, caught off guard, before it clicked.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, did I hear you right? You''re asking about Evie?"


    Walter gave a firm nod.


    Roslyn leaned her head on her hand. "Unless I''m mistaken, you two aren''t divorced yet, right?"


    That question hit Walter out of the blue, and he did not have a quickeback.


    Roslyn did not wait for one as she quickly said, rather exaggeratedly, "Your wife''s gone missing, and you''re here asking me? Why aren''t you having your bodyguards turn the city upside down looking for her?" "So, you''re saying you don''t know where she is?"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter pondered briefly, picking up on Roslyn''s hint.


    Roslyn shot back with a question of her own. "Why would you think I''d know where Evie is? Oh, I get it, because I''m her best friend, right?"


    Walter''s face tensed up, clearly hit a nerve.


    Roslyn saw right through him and spelled it out. "Even though you''re Evie''s husband, no offense, but you''re not exactly husband of the year. You just don''t get Evie, not one bit!"


    Evangeline was the kind of friend who always brought happiness instead of negativity, and she was not one to just ghost anyone. Her going missing was a surefire sign she was down in the dumps.


    When Evangeline was feeling like this, she would not dream of dumping her troubles on her family. Instead, she would find a secret spot to mull things over alone.


    A flicker of concern crossed Roslyn''s face.


    She could not shake the thought: What in the world had Walter done to tick Evangeline off so badly that she would pull a vanishing act?


    Walter''s eyes and heart were awash with a wave of loneliness.


    The pieces all clicked into ce.


    The Foster family''s uncles were clueless about Evangeline''s whereabouts, and so was Roslyn. It seemed Evangeline just did not want to unload her feelings on anyone else. Where on earth could she be though?


    Walter kept his cool as he bid Roslyn farewell, but the moment he turned away, his face went ghostly


    white.


    He had a gnawing sense of loss, like he was being dunked in the ocean, gasping for air, his body iling to break free to the surface, but not knowing where to channel his strength... Was Evangeline going to leave him for good?


    Walter had been so wrapped up in finding Evangeline that he had not set foot in the


    e for days. The


    small stuff was left to his assistant David, and the big decisions would have to wait for his return.


    Little did he know, as he scoured the city for any sign of Evangeline, an unexpected visitor had stealthily made their way to the HR department of hispany to check in.


    The new academic year had kicked off, and the Gordon Group was on the hunt for a few superstar interns from Avalon City''s colleges. They nned to groom these young talents to fit the mold of thepany, breathing fresh life into the corporate world.


    This was usually a job for the HR folks, not something that would get the big boss to roll up his sleeves. Walter was just doing his thing, giving the intern files a quick once-over and scribbling his signature.


    David swung by with a stack of profiles from HR and dropped them on Walter''s desk.

 301

    Chapter 301


    Walter had just put the final flourish on a contract when he grabbed the list of new names and flipped to the end to sign off. As his pen danced across the page, he shot a question over his shoulder.


    "So, how many fresh faces are joining us as interns? Got any standouts?" Walter asked.


    David, who had been Walter''s right-hand man for years, knew what he meant. He had the information ready, just waiting for the cue. "We''ve got five new interns this year. One is a real jack-of-all-trades and shines bright in the bunch. You know we''ve got that gap in the secretarial pool? HR is buzzing about grooming this star. If they catch your eye, boss, they''re in."


    The HR chief was one of Trey''s crew, an unbiased man who actedwfully and abidingly. That was w when Walter was removing Trey''s people from the group, he kept this gem on board.


    Walter''s eyebrow raised. "Impressing that old coot is no walk in the park. Who''s the kid?"


    He fanned out the employee files he had, looking for a clue, but his gazended on a face he knew all too


    well.


    Minnie?


    David was just parroting what the HR newbie had blurted out in a flurry, so he was not sure about the


    name.


    C


    "They said it''s Minnie, I think. The new secretary was all over the ce, juggling a million things. Could''ve


    gotten it wrong..."


    David''s pulse kicked up a notch. Walter was not one to nitpick, except when it came to business-that was where he was a stickler for the nitty-gritty.


    It was David''s knack for paying great attention to detail that had him oust five other contenders to stay


    in Walter''s orbit.


    "You got it right."Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter''s lips curled into a sly grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief.


    He was a natural charmer, with a face so finely chiseled that it seemed like a work of art. That grin of his only added to his air of superiority, The brightness was so intense that it demanded constant attention.


    David had always known their boss was a knockout, but a tiny slip-up at work had him rattled by that teasing smile, making his heart do a weird little flip-flop.


    He watched as his boss''s fingers danced over five resumes, pausing on the snapshot of a stunning girl.


    "I should''ve guessed who''d get suchpliments from the old man. If it''s her, well, that figures."


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you know her?" David''s voice perked up, hoping familiarity might ease his worry. "Not just know her. I''m rather close with her."


    Walter flung the resume onto his desk, slouching back in his chair with a nonchnt air as he drummed


    his fingers. "David, if you can''t even catch a name, you''ve got some leveling up to do in the work department!"


    David''s forehead broke out in sweat, but he managed a goofy grin. "Got it, I''ll be sharper next time."


    After David left, Walter''s gaze turned piercing.


    He was always wary of women who seemed to pop into his life by chance.


    Minnie was definitely Alex''s student from overseas, no question there. However, why would a music student be so keen tond a job interview at hispany? Had he known Minnie was vying for the intern spot this year, he would have barred the door. Too bad the HR head''s word wasw, and since he had signed off on it, backing out of the HR chief''s favored candidate would be a big no-no.


    He supposed he would keep her around for a few days, just to see what kind of game she was yi

 302

    Chapter 302


    In Eastgate District, the lush and luxurious Emerald of the Hignds vi area, Evangeline lounged on a beanbag chair, soaking up the sun''s rays with carefree ease.


    She had been living extravagantly in the vi her uncle had gifted her for several days, reveling in the kind ofid-back lifestyle she adored.


    These days had taught her why so many people were into the whole ''lle back and let the world spin'' vibe, keen on clocking out of the rat race early.


    Right then, her phone buzzed. It was a call from her best friend, Roslyn. The thought of how long it had been since theyst hung out brought a smile to Evangeline''s face. "Hey, it''s been ages! What''s been keeping you busy?"


    She secretly wished Roslyn could join her for some chill time during her self-dered vacation.


    Of course, being solo had its perks-peaceful yet a tad dull. However, that twinge of loneliness would sneak up on her sometimes.


    Roslyn was not calling to swap life updates, though, despite her hectic schedule.


    "Come on, Evie, be honest. Have you and Walter been at it again?"


    shes with Walter were hardly breaking news, but Roslyn''s timing in bringing it up was uncannily on


    point.


    That piqued Evangeline''s interest, and she bolted upright.


    "How did you find out?"


    She had had a major fight with Walter over something so embarrassing that she could not even bring herself to talk about it. It was her sour mood that had driven her to this hideaway to mend her spirits. Roslyn heaved a deep sigh. "What else could''ve happened? Walter showed up looking for me, obviously!"Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Roslyn was fuming as she mentioned it.


    "Evangeline, do you even see me as your best friend? I wouldn''t have had a clue you were off the grid if Walter hadn''te asking for you. Spill it, where are you? I''ming to get you right now!" She was supposed to be tied up with the film crew.


    However, with Evangeline gone missing, Roslyn just could not focus on her role. Her agent, seeing how tired and devastated she was, managed to get the director to agree to a week''s break for some much-needed rest and recreation. "The ce I''m at... You''ve been here before."


    Evangeline could tell Roslyn was seriously ticked off, her voice was even a little shaky.


    However, she knew Roslyn''s temper was like a lit fuse. If she kept things under wraps, Roslyn would not back down. So, she had to seem a bit more proactive.


    "Just send me your location, I''lle by car to scoop you up."


    Roslyn thought about the swarm of paparazzi at the set and figured they might blow Evangeline''s cover, which would make her stealthy escape pointless.


    They agreed to meet somewhere low-key, and once Roslyn picked her up, they skipped the small talk and headed straight to Evangeline''s secret hideout.


    At this moment, she adored the vi her uncle had gifted her. It was in a swanky vimunity where outsiders could not just wander in, which made it less likely for Walter''s goons to track her down. However, the moment they stepped inside, Roslyn flung her bag aside, flopped onto the couch, and wrapped her arms around herself. She looked ready to explode.


    "Out with it, why are you hiding? Did that jerk Walter do something awful again?"


    Evangeline had already agreed to have a child with Walter for her grandfather''s sake.


    Roslyn tried to make sense of it but could not figure out why she would agree to such a thing. Nheless, her gut screamed Walter had to be the reason.

 303

    Chapter 303


    "No, not at all." Evangelineughed it off, but it was clear she was faking it.


    How could she admit the humiliating thing Walter had done to her?


    "Just pretend I''m really tiredtely and need a serious break." Evangeline grabbed a throw pillow and, pretending to y with it, used it to hide her face.


    Roslyn saw right through this act of evasion and felt her anger melt away, leaving only a deep concern for Evangeline. "You can rest any way you want, but you have to talk about what''s going on so we can back you up, okay?" "I... don''t want to fight back anymore." Evangeline''s gaze fell, filled with sadness.


    She just wanted to cut Walter out of her life for good. s, she knew that was a pipe dream.


    She had promised Cole she would make it work with Walter and have a child. How could she let him down?


    Hiding away was just... a temporary escape.


    "That''s not going to work."


    Roslyn''s fists tightened with fury. Her best friend Evangeline was being tormented by a lowlife. Was she supposed to just stand by?


    "You don''t have to tell me. I bet it was that creep Walter, wasn''t it? I should''ve known there was a reason why that guy was suddenly Mr. Nice Guy, even tracking you down to my film set! He must''ve realized he messed up and wanted to say sorry, huh? "Evangeline, can''t you show a little spine? No matter how much he begs this time, we can''t let him off the hook, got it?"


    Roslyn was seriously upset for Evangeline.


    She had seen all the good in Evangeline. She knew all about Evangeline''s hopeless crush on Walter, being her best friend and all. However, to see her sweet friend get yed by that loser repeatedly was too much. Evangeline might put up with it, but Roslyn would never.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Nope! I''m going to make sure he regrets it! Our little princess of the Foster family can''t just be pushed around for nothing!"


    Roslyn was fuming, and while Evangeline felt touched by her friend''s fierce loyalty, she also felt a twinge of sadness for her.


    "Getting all worked up is bad for you, and he''s not worth the stress." Evangeline gave Roslyn''s hand a reassuring pat. "Don''t worry, there''s no way I''m forgiving him."


    Even so, forgiveness aside, there were still things yet to be done.


    The best ending she could imagine was to have Walter''s baby and then cut ties for good, bing total strangers if they ever crossed paths again.


    "Forgive him? As if! Our little princess is meant for a life full of happiness and joy, not for making that jerk


    so jealous he can''t stand it!"


    With that, Roslyn had a lightbulb moment.


    "I''ve got the perfect idea. There are tons of great guys out there, How about I find someone from my circle who''s got the looks, the cash, the kindness, and the moves, and set you up with him?" Evangeline blinked.


    Roslyn''s mind was racing, and Evangeline was struggling to keep up.


    She was determined to put some serious space between herself and Walter, but diving headfirst into a new romance seemed slightly too reckless, did it not?


    "Is this really a good idea?" Evangeline''s voice was a whisper,den with hope that Roslyn would pick up on her hesitation.


    However, Roslyn did not catch the hint. "What''s the big deal? You can''t start fresh if you''re cli past. Brace yourself, because we''re doing this!"


    to the

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    Chapter 304


    Roslyn''s handnded firmly on Evangeline''s shoulder, Her eyes zing with resolve.


    "Maybe we shouldn''t." When push came to shove, Evangeline felt the urge to back down.


    Walter had made it crystal clear that she was not to step out on him while they were still married. Roslyn''s advice felt like a bold challenge to that warning.


    It was not that she was scared of ticking Walter off; it just seemed all kinds of wrong after giving it some thought.


    "Roslyn, I''m barely out of the wreckage of my marriage. Can''t I just catch my breath for a second?"


    It was the raw truth. Walter had drained all her enthusiasm for anything to do with guys.


    t me,


    Roslyn pouted. "Ever heard the one about not getting anything new until you let go of the old the next guy will be a total sweetheart. I''m not pushing you to leap into another marriage. But having someone new might just be the ticket to help you heal faster." She was sure Evangeline got the idea of distraction as a coping mechanism.


    "Walter''s to me for everything, everyst bit..."


    In the end, all Evangeline could do was let out a deep sigh sorrowfully.


    Roslyn was usually cheerful, but she was different on this day. Evangeline felt a pang of guilt for bringing


    her down.


    Out of the blue, Roslyn sighed and said, "What kind of bad luck have we sisters stumbled into with our love lives? I was hoping you''d have a fairytale ending with the guy of your dreams, giving me a silver lining. But look at you, married and still not as free as I am. At least I can make a quick exit if I need to."Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    They had chatted about their love woes before, and Evangeline had figured Roslyn was just getting sentimental from her acting gigs. However, at this moment, she wondered... Did Roslyn have a secret crush?


    "When did this all start? Howe you''ve never spilled the beans to me?" Evangeline was taken aback. Roslyn, the one with the fiery spirit, had kept a secret? Still, seeing her best friend so glum, Evangeline could not be harsh. She just wanted Roslyn to let it all out. Bottling up feelings was a surefire way to end up sick.


    "Back then, you were head over heels for Walter, and my little crush seemed like no big deal. Why make a fuss?" Roslyn''s expression grew sadder as she thought of her secret love. "Evie, do you think we''ll ever find happiness? You know, in the love department?" The future was a big question mark, but without that special someone, life felt like being a seed tossed in a stream, always floating, never settling down.


    "Absolutely," said Evangeline, shoving aside a pillow to sit closer to Roslyn, leaning her head on her friend''s delicate shoulder.


    "You know that old saying, right? ''No pain, no gain,'' especially when ites to love. You''ve got to go through the tough stuff before you can hit the jackpot of happiness."


    304


    "That does make sense," Roslyn mused, nodding.


    Then, out of nowhere, she let out a high-pitched yelp. "Ugh! Having a crush is the worst!"


    The mention of a crush brought Walter''s image flooding into Evangeline''s mind.


    Crushes were brutal. She had been plotting to marry the guy, and they had shared so many close moments, but she still had not captured his heart.


    However, with Evangeline looking so down in the dumps, she could not just pile on. She quickly offered somefort. "If we''re both feeling down, how about we pick a day to hit up a church and light a candle for some love and luck?"

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    Chapter 305


    Truth be told, the whole prayer thing was just an excuse to get out and clear their heads from all this drama.


    "Deal! If I can score a better match, I''ll ditch this crush, it''s not like there''s a guy shortage, right? Why should I, Roslyn, get stuck on just one dude?"


    The girls were on the same page in a heartbeat. They just needed to find the right time.


    Roslyn''s phone buzzed, and with a single nce, her bubbly expression tanked.


    "Evie, my agent''s dumped more work on me, that absolute nightmare. I''m on set every day, barely sleeping four or five hours. Isn''t that tough enough? I''ve had it; I''m going to ask thepany for a new agent!" Just talking about her agent got Roslyn irritated.


    Evangeline was no stranger to the drama. Whenever Roslyn got mad, she would threaten to fire her agent, but she never actually went through with it. They would have their little spats, but before it was realized, they were back to being the dynamic duo at work. That was why Evangeline did not bother getting into the whole agent thing. What really piqued her interest was Roslyn''stest gig.


    "So spill the beans, what''s the new mission?" Evangeline prodded.


    Roslyn, with a roll of her eyes, chucked her phone at Evangeline. "See for yourself." She was clearly done talking about it.


    Evangeline nced at the screen and saw that Roslyn was supposed to pick a few tracks from thepany''s curated ylist to practice. They wanted to ride the wave of her new show sess, drop a hot new album, rake in the cash, and boost her star power. The agent''s n was solid from a career standpoint.


    However, hearing that Roslyn''s sleep had dwindled to a mere few hours, Evangeline pitied her.


    "Are thepany''s songs that tough to belt out?"


    That got Roslyn going.


    "Tough? It''s like I''m back in music school taking those killer vocal sses! I have no clue where thepany digs up these songwriters. Their stuff is all sh and no substance, the lyrics dumb you down to the point of pain, and the tunes? They''re all over the ce, with zero thought for what it''s like to actually sing them!"


    Roslyn snatched a pillow and gave it a good thump or two, letting off some steam. Once she had cooled down a bit, she went on, "Look, it''s not like I''m trying toin about the system," Roslyn groaned.


    "If we were talking about my time off, I''d tough it out no matter how hard it got. But I''m still on set, and acting is already like climbing a mountain for me. It sucks away all my energy. And now you want me to belt out this song too? Might as well just finish me off!" Evangeline listened to her venting and racked her brain for a way to help. "What if you chat with your agent, and I take a crack at writing the songs for your new album?"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The moment Evangeline floated the idea, Roslyn''s face lit up like a Christmas tree. How could she have


    forgotten the fact that Evangeline was a secret songwriting genius? It was Evangeline''s tunes that had rocketed her to stardom in the first ce!


    Then, a shadow of doubt crossed Roslyn''s face. "Can you make it, though? With all the stuff going down at Foster Group, and Walter being... Well, Walter?"


    Deep down, Roslyn knew the score. Why else would her no-good agent pick this moment, of all times, to pitch a new album? She was obviously banking on Evangeline''s magic touch with music to spark her career back to life!

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    Chapter 306


    s, work was work, and Evangeline was like family to her. Roslyn could not just focus on work and leave her friend when she needed help, right?


    "Time? I''ve got loads," blurted Evangeline without a second thought. "I''ve wrapped up all thepany stuff, and I''m officially on vacation."


    In a private matter, if Roslyn had note to her with this, Evangeline would have been climbing the walls out of sheer boredom. Seriously, if she had to spend one more day stuck in this vi, she would go stir-crazy. Writing songs needed her to be totally peaceful Inside, and what better way to forget about the drama with Walter than to dive into a new project?


    "That''s just awesome!" Roslyn was over the moon, buzzing with excitement as she hashed out the ns for her uing album with her manager. Dropping a new album was a huge deal for any singer, and that night, Roslyn was scooped up my her manager to get the ball rolling.


    After a heartfelt farewell to Roslyn, who was clearly bummed to leave, Evangeline zipped up her jacket


    and headed upstairs.


    It had been ages since shest penned a tune. Taking on Roslyn''s task was the perfect excuse to get back into her groove.


    Up in her room, which was decked out like something out of a fairy tale, Evangeline plopped down on the bed but quickly slid open her nightstand drawer. She pulled out a velvet box that was gathering dust.


    With a gentle lift of the lid, an old violin with chipped paint greeted her. This was not just any violin-it was a relic, a piece of her very identity.


    The violin once belonged to the legendary Loberni, a virtuoso who also happened to be Evangeline''s


    mentor.


    Loberni''s face, with his friendly beard and the serene vibe of a true artist, popped into her head.


    His insane talent for music had made him a standout in his day, but it was his deep understanding of music and his masterful ying that earned him the title of ''prodigy.'' When Loberni bowed out of the limelight, he handed this violin to her.


    It was clear as day why he did it. He wanted Evangeline to carry on his legacy, to shine in the music world just like she was taking the baton-or in this case, the violin-from him.


    Evangeline hade back from school with her head full of dreams, but somehow, all she could think about was Walter. The violin, once her closestpanion,y forgotten until this day. Something she could not quite exin nudged her to open the case and run her fingers over the strings, tuning them with a gentle touch.


    She missed her teacher so much.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Chapter 306.


    She missed Loberni''s kind voice and the weight of his sigh when he entrusted her with the violin.


    A sad smile flickered across Evangeline''s face, as fleeting as a dying fily. She felt guilty for letting down the one man who believed in her, all because of a silly crush.


    She lifted the violin to her shoulder, her movements as fluid as ever. The notes that filled the room were sweet but tinged with sadness, each one a reflection of Evangeline''s heavy heart. Music would always tell the story of its yer''s soul.


    As Evangeline yed, lost in the melody, she could not shake the image of Walter''s face or the sting of that humiliating moment in the car, which seemed to dance with the music in the air...


    She was so wrapped up in her world that she did not notice the figure who had silently made his way to her room. He followed the haunting sound to Evangeline''s door and stood there, not wanting to break the spell, just watching her lose h

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    Chapter 307


    The sound of someone pping broke the silence once the song ended, making Evangeline''s heart skip a


    beat.


    She turned and was startled to see who it was.


    "Uncle Yale? What are you doing here?" she asked, her eyes wide with surprise.


    Yale stopped pping and walked into her room with a smile. "I''m here to check on you."


    Evangeline''s face had gotten so thin over the past few days that it was like all her health had just vanished. It was all Walter''s fault, that jerk!


    Yale was seething inside, but he cared too much about Evangeline to let his anger show.


    "Uncle Yale, have a seat." Evangeline gestured for her uncle to sit on the living room couch, then she tucked her violin away.


    "How''s everything been? Holding up okay?" Yale asked.


    Just a few days before, Evangeline had shown up out of the blue at the old Foster family ce, looking for some alone time. She told Yale in secret that she needed a break. Yes, thepany had Hank, the ever-reliable CEO, but sometimes, it still needed a bit of oversight from Yale, a true Foster at heart.


    Yale would do anything for his niece, no questions asked.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, seeing her looking so unwell, he just could not bring himself to pry into the why.


    A few days after she had asked for some quiet time, he finally mustered the courage to pop by and see how she was doing.


    "I''m great! I mean, I''m just lounging around this vi, not a care in the world. What''s not to love?" said Evangeline, sinking into the sofa nonchntly.


    Yale doubted what Evangeline said considering how thin she looked. However, seeing Evangeline trying to act tough, he just could not voice his concern. Instead, he yed it cool and said, "If you''re happy, then I''m good." Yale kicked back, crossing his legs, ready to chat some more.


    "Walter had been showing up, in search of you. We all tried to ignore him, but he kept camping out at the door, day in, day out. Uncle James, with his short fuse, finally had enough and confronted him. That was when we knew that the entire time, he was looking for you..."


    Yale''s voice trailed off, leaving his sentence hanging, filled with things left unsaid.


    He was supposed to be on Evangeline''s team, convinced that Walter was nothing but trouble and that his darling niece would only find her happily ever after without him. However, Walter''stest stunt had Yale all twisted up inside.


    Honestly, Walter had pulled a move Yale never thought possible. For a second, Yale was at a loss on what to say about their rocky marriage.


    "If he wants to look for me, let him." Evangeline acted indifferent, but inside, her heart was racing out of


    Chapter 307 control.


    Somehow, the thought of Walter standing guard at Cole''s ce, just to find her, touched her heart. Even so, that flicker of warmth was nothingpared to the hurt she had been through. She totally got why Yale seemed so torn.


    "Uncle Yale, my marriage to Walter has been over in all but name for ages. We''ve only held off on the divorce papers because of Grandpa Cole. You don''t need to worry about us anymore."


    She could not deny that she still had feelings for Walter, deep ones at that. Those feelings were so strong that she would still dream of having a family with him.


    Nheless, that was as far as it went. The Evangeline, who loved him with all her heart, died that night.

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    308


    In that tiny space, on that freezing night, under the flickering streetlight, Evangeline caught a glimpse of Walter''s face, twisted into something dark and sinister.


    At that heart-stopping moment when she was prated, she realized she was no longer the cherished princess of the Foster family, nor the esteemed Mrs. Gordon. She felt like nothing more than a prostitute- an object at the mercy of Walter''s every whim and desire, regardless of her own feelings. Why did ite to this? Why did her love for Walter drag her down to such depths?


    Liking someone was not wrong, and falling in love, dreaming of marriage, was not a crime.


    Regardless, knowing she was nothing more than an afterthought to him and still chasing after his affection like a doomed moth to a me... that was her mistake.


    Uncle Yale could not fathom the storm raging in Evangeline''s heart. Seeing her put on a brave face, his own heart twisted with pain.


    "Evie, the important thing is that you have no regrets," he said gently.


    Yale might be her uncle, but he was just a spectator in her life''s story, powerless to sway her decisions. All he could wish for her was peace of mind.


    The air hung heavy between them, but Evangeline shrugged it off with a forced lightness. "Hey, Uncle Yale, you''re not here often, so let''s skip the gloom and doom, okay?"


    She reached out and yfullytched onto his arm.


    "Got any good news to share, Uncle Yale?" she asked, her lips curling into a mischievous grin that seemed to chase away the shadows, if only for a moment.


    Evangeline had a n, and that was to find the perfect match to help the Foster family grow. Yale, the big brother of the family, was supposed to set the pace. However, when she approached him with her mission, Yale let her know he was already on it and did not need her meddling in his love life. That was when Evangeline tucked away the list of potential women she had put together for him.


    Time had ticked by, and it was the moment of truth for Evangeline to see how things had panned out. However, Yale, tough as nails in every other aspect of life, turned into a nervous wreck at the mere hint of personal questions from Evangeline.


    His face twisted into an awkward grimace as he spoke, "Evie, you know, it''s not great to be too obsessed


    when ites to love..."


    He barely got his excuse rolling before Evangeline cut him off, not buying it for a second.


    "Are you saying you got turned down?" she asked, sharp as a tack. If he was not being forced, then why even mention it?


    Yale''s face twitched. He had to hand it to her, Evangeline was quick on the uptake. Still, admitting to her that he could not charm a singledy? That would be a blow to the Foster family pride he was not ready to take.


    "No way," he shot back without missing a beat, locking eyes with Evangeline''s skeptical gaze. For the first time, he realized just how much of a busybody his niece could be-it was almost too much to handle!Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Evie, you know I''ve climbed the ranks at work, and I''ve made my fair share of enemies along the way. If I were to bring someone into this family, she could be in real danger, you get that?


    "Look, I''m not getting any younger, and after years of flying solo, I''ve gotten pretty good at it. If you try to set me up with someone, I wouldn''t even know how to handle day-to-day life."


    "So, what''s your point?" Evangeline raised an eyebrow, her face calm as she waited for Yale to continue.


    "Can we just drop the whole ''find me a partner'' thing? You''ve got five uncles to choose from to make fun of. Why hassle an old guy like me? Besides, with the way things are for me right now, any girl who ends up with me is in for a world of worry."

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    Chapter 309


    Yale''s solid argument made a lot of sense, but Evangeline was not buying it.


    She was the darling of the Foster family, fully aware of Yale''s influence and abilities. Yale had aundry list of reasons, even ying the guilt card about harming some poor girl, but he missed the mark.


    If Yale was dead set on marrying a woman, he would not let her be in any danger, would he? The bottom line was that he just did not want to do it!


    "Well, Uncle Yale, you''ve got a point." Evangeline nodded, looking pensive, and Yale saw a sliver of hope for escape.


    "Your other four uncles are around the same age, lessplicated, and without my long list of enemies. Helping them find partners would be really helpful..."


    Yale knew he was shifting the attention to his brothers, but he did not feel the slichtest bit guilty about it. As long as he could slip out of Evangeline''s grip, he would hand over his four rothers on a silver tter without a second thought. However...


    Evangeline''s hand shot up in a ''stop'' gesture, cutting off Yale''s exnation mid-sentence. "I''ll think about it some more."


    Her muffled words snuffed out the hopeful glimmer in Yale''s eyes, leaving only a few stubborn sparks.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He knew then that Evangeline was not ready to let go of him just yet.


    No biggie. He just had to make sure she did not catch him on any dates!


    Yale had barely steeled himself when the doorbell echoed through the house.


    Evangeline froze, caught off guard.


    Sure, everyone knew her uncles had gifted her the vi, but the actual location was top secret.


    She checked the clock and noted it was five in the afternoon. Who would be here at this hour? Roslyn was off with her agent, brainstorming her next hit album, and Yale was right here. Could it be... Walter?!


    The thought alone sent shivers down her spine, leaving her rooted to the spot, clueless about what to do next.


    Yale, puzzled by his niece''s statue impression, waved his hand in front of her face. "Evie, didn''t you hear


    the doorbell?"


    Evangeline jolted back to reality. "I heard it, but I really don''t want to answer it."


    Just the idea of Walter waiting on the other side made her want to bolt.


    "Maybe... Uncle Yale, could you get it for me?" She put her hands together, pleading with her eyes, hoping Yale would save her from the dreaded visitor. 1/2

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    Chapter 310


    Yale wondered who could be so rude as to ring the bell and not even wait for an answer, rushing like that.


    The moment he opened the door, he was taken aback by the face he saw.


    Standing there was someone in their trademark outfit: A vest, a miniskirt, shiny ck thigh-high boots, and a long gray coat that was clearly for warmth. "Why are you here?"


    "Why are you here?"


    They both blurted out the same thing, eyes locked.


    Catching the vibe, Roslyn quickly switched it up.


    "Where''s Evie?"


    "Where''s Evie?"


    After the echo, Yale went full-on gentleman mode. "You first."


    Roslyn looked away, feeling a bit awkward. "I came to see Evie. Where is she?"


    She had only been gone from the vi for a few hours. Evangeline had to be around, right?


    Yale, finally catching on, gestured her inside and pointed the way. "She''s in her room."


    What they did not know was that Evangeline had seen the whole thing through the lens of a phoneText ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    camera.


    Since when did Yale and Roslyn... click so well?


    Yale, who usually could not care less about girls, was suddenly chivalrous around Roslyn? Anyone else would have just ducked inside without a second nce, but there he was, chatting away at the door like it was the most natural thing in the world. Evangeline''s lips twisted into a sly grin as a scheme began to crystallize in her mind.


    However, before she could work out the details, Roslyn barged into the room, breaking into her thoughts.


    "Evie? You were right here. Why didn''t youe to let me in?" Roslyn''s voice was tinged with annoyance. She clutched at her chest, still calming her racing heart from the shock she had just had.


    "Wasn''t Uncle Yale on it?" Evangeline stretched out on the bed, unfazed.


    She figured if Yale had not been the one to open the door, she might have missed out on this... stroke of luck!


    Roslyn, on the other hand, was stewing over something else entirely. If Yale had not been the one to open the door, she would not have jumped out of her skin!


    She was just trying to keep that annoying Yale at arm''s length, and here he was again, popping up at Evangeline''s. What bad luck!


    "He opened the door for me, but it''s not the same! You''re my best friend. Imagine how stoked I''d be if you were the one greeting me at the door?" Roslyn was grasping at straws, hoping Evangeline would feel a twinge of guilt for making her face Yale


    alone.


    "Come on, I just cked off this once. Plus, I sort of think you and Yale... You know, you''ve got something good going."


    These two were like two peas in a pod. They were perfect for each other!


    "What''s so good about it?" Roslyn snapped back, Her gorgeous eyes zing with an emotion she could not hide: pure loathing for Yale.


    "Don''t you remember? I just can''t rx around the older folks..."


    It sounded like a solid excuse.


    If Evangeline had not caught their interactions on camera, she might have bought it. However, she could not just call out Roslyn and make her look bad, could she? "Okay, okay, next time I''lle down to wee you myself. No hard feelings, deal?"

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    Chapter 311


    Roslyn, with her fiery temper cooled, finally sat next to Evangeline, content. "That''s better." However, her relief was short-lived, as Evangeline''s next words sent her heart racing again. "You know, Roslyn, you''ve been acting super weird!" said Evangeline with a hint of drama. "Weird? How?"


    "Back in the day, you didn''t care who let you in, just as long as you got to hang with me. But now, you''re all worked up because Uncle Yale opened the door? You''ve made such a big deal out of it, even asking me to promise you stuff... "Spill it. Are you... hiding something?"


    Both Yale and Roslyn were acting odd, and the oddness always peaked when they were alone together. Evangeline could not shake the feeling that something secret was going on between them.


    With Evangeline''s teasing tone and the yful lift at the end of her sentences, it was like she had hooked Roslyn''s heart and was giving it a good yank.


    Roslyn''s cheeks turned a soft pink, a reaction she could not control, especially with Uncle Yale, her best friend''s rtive, standing right there.


    Her shyness, which did not show up often, seemed to be stuck on her face like a mask. "What kind of drama could I have in my life? My awful agent won''t stop yapping about work, work, work. Even if I wanted a little excitement, I''m just not feeling it!" "You''ve got a point. But why is your agent so obsessed with your job?" Evangeline kept her sneaky thoughts to herself and yed along with Roslyn''sints.


    Deep down, she really did feel bad for Roslyn. Who ever heard of an agent who was all work and no y, never letting their star take a breather?


    Roslyn let out a huff. "It''s all because they want to cash in on my fame while it''s hot, then kick back and retire on their pile of money. Such a low move!"


    Inside, Roslyn was fuming at the shamelessness, but outwardly, she felt powerless against the destiny of being pushed around.


    The girls were deep in gossip when Yale, standing outside, had to chime in.


    "Ahem!"


    He cleared his throat, then tapped on the door. "Evie, dinner time. Got any cravings? The fridge is bare, so you and your friend figure out what you''re in the mood for, and I''ll go fetch it!"


    Evangeline was not keen on strangers invading her space, so ever since she had moved into the vi, she kept it servant-free.


    s, they had finished off thest of the prepped food.


    "Roslyn, got any food wishes?" Evangeline, ever the hostess, asked Roslyn first, since she was the guest.


    After she popped the question, a lightbulb went off in her head.


    Roslyn and Yale only got all weird and secretive when they were by themselves. So, the solution was a no-brainer: She had to find ways to leave them alone together. What better excuse than a grocery run?N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Roslyn rested her chin in her hand, racking her brain, but nothing came to mind. She just gave a clueless shake of her head. "I''m in the middle of shooting a movie, so I''ve got to watch the calories. Can''t risk not fitting into my costumes. I''ll just nibble on whatever you''re having."


    "Hmm, that''s difficult..." Evangeline put on a show of concern, furrowing her brows as if she was really stumped.


    Her hand ''identally''nded on the notebook on her bedside table. That little move caught Roslyn''s eye in a sh.

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    Chapter 312


    "What''s the big deal? We can just grab whatever. As long as we''re not hungry, it''s all good, right?" Roslyn was thinking simple, while Evangeline''s mind was racing a mile a minute.


    "Here''s the thing, I... I just got my period. But we''re out of pads."


    Before Roslyn could even process what was going on, Evangeline clutched her belly and dropped a bombshell. "Uncle Yale is downstairs, and I''d be mortified to ask him to buy them. Could you maybe go with him to pick up some food and grab a pack for me?" Evangeline''s eyes were pleading, almost begging.


    Roslyn''s mind went nk with a buzz.


    Getting sanitary pads for Evangeline was not an issue, but going with Yale for the task was another story.


    "Why don''t we all go together?" Roslyn chimed in, trying to break the ice.


    She just could not shake off the weird vibes whenever she was alone with Yale.


    "Me, this time of the month?" Evangeline quipped without missing a beat, her words dripping with sarcasm. "You wouldn''t drag me out there, would you? Come on, Roslyn, pretty please?" Evangeline sped Roslyn''s hands and gave them a gentle shake, her eyes pleading.


    Roslyn pictured Yale''s face, then locked eyes with Evangeline. With a determined bite of her lip, she eventually caved. "Alright, I''ll get them for you!"


    It was not like hanging out with Yale had not been awkward before. For Evangeline, her best friend, she could suck it up one more time, right? "You''re an angel!" Evangeline beamed, cupping Roslyn''s face and nting a smacking kiss on her cheek.


    Just like that, the duo decided on the n,pletely oblivious to Yale, who was anxiously awaiting news on the other side of the door.


    Yale''s heart was practically leaping out of his chest. Roslyn was going shopping with him? The thought alone sent shivers down his spine.


    He then had a lightbulb moment. Were Evangeline and Walter not trying for a baby? If she was really on her period, that meant no baby on board with Walter. She should be really sad about it, should she not?


    If she was expecting, why would she need pads? He was not clueless about these things!


    Torn between these thoughts, Yale was convinced there was more to the story. Maybe his sharp-as-a- tack niece was onto something.


    Evangeline''s voice pierced the silence of the room. "Uncle Yale, I''ve got a tummy ache. Why don''t you take Roslyn with you to grab some snacks?"Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Sure thing!" Yale shot back without a second thought.


    If he did not y along with Evangeline''s hint, it would be like a dead giveaway that he had something to hide. Just like that, his dream of living a chill life would be busted!


    Thus, the trio made their way downstairs.


    Yale led the way. Evangeline, holding onto Roslyn, trailed behind.


    In front of Evangeline, both of them kept a careful distance, as if by some unspoken agreement. However, the harder they tried to act normal, the more it stood out. Evangeline could tell something was up just by the weird vibe hanging between them.


    Stepping out of the vi, Yale automatically swung open the passenger-side door. Roslyn hopped in without a moment''s hesitation.


    Their movements were so in sync that they could have been mistaken for an old couple who had been together for ages.


    Roslyn clicked her seatbelt into ce, and Yale fired up the engine.


    The drive was quiet, but Yale, trying to break the ice, struck up a chat.

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    Chapter 313


    "How''s it going? I heard you''ve started acting in movies and TV shows?"


    "Yeah, I''ve been on settely." Roslyn''s reply came quickly, but her gaze stayed glued to the window, as if this was no big deal.


    Yale swallowed a sigh and looked away. "So you went ahead with it."


    He bit back the words ''You never listen''.


    Still, even without him saying it, Roslyn got the message loud and clear.


    "Does it even matter if I go or not? It''s my choice, right?" Roslyn had been in the car for a while, but only now did she look over at Yale.


    He had not changed a bit. Sharp in his suit and shoes, he had that cool, collected look of a guy who got it all together.


    Just seeing him like that sent waves of longing through Roslyn. What a shame that a catch like him was never meant for her.


    No matter how hard she tried, no matter how sweet she was, she never seemed to catch his eye.


    Nheless, Roslyn had her pride, and she would show Yale how much it hurt. Thus, she hid behind a wall of anger.


    "What''s it to you? I remember you lecturing me years ago about how I was too naive for the cutthroat world of showbiz. As if I ever listened!".


    Yale could not tell if he was more ticked off or just in exasperated.


    Roslyn was a firecracker-simple-hearted and quick to re up, not to mention drop-dead gorgeous.


    A girl like her in the limelight was just asking for trouble.


    He usually did not care much about other people''s business. However, when it came to his niece''s friend, he could not help but worry. s, his friendly advice was met with a full-blown rebellion instead. "Why should I listen to you anyway? You seem to forget, Yale, you''re Evangeline''s uncle, not mine! She might have to listen to you, but I sure don''t."


    Roslyn was doing her best to keep her cool, but Yale''s special status made her lose it in no time t.


    The thing she could not stand the most was Yale acting all high and mighty, like he had some sort of say over her!


    Sure, she could listen to Yale. She could take advice from her own guy, no problem.


    Yale was trying to pull the elder card to get her to fall in line, but she would never y that game-not in a million years. She could not see Yale as anything but her equal, no matter how hard he tried. Yale did not realize that his words were like a punch to the gut for her.


    "Look, I''m not trying to be bossy, but as a friend, shouldn''t you hear me out? I just don''t want to see you get hurt, okay?" Yale''s voice wasced with genuine concern.


    To Yale, it felt like his heartfelt advice was tossed aside like yesterday''s news.


    "Back when you were rocking the music scene, things were simpler. But diving into the movie biz? It''s a whole different beast, and you can''t dodge the drama... He was mid-plea when Roslyn cut him off sharp and quick.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, I appreciate the concern. But my life, my choices. I''d like it if you respected that."Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her voice was icy, her words putting miles of distance between them. It was as if she was sitting next to some random troll trying to run her life, not a friend. Deep down, however, Roslyn''s heart was in pieces.


    Her frosty facade hurt Yale, sure, but it was tearing her up inside too. Why could he not just be there for her, out in the open, if he cared that much?

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    Chapter 314 Chapter 314


    Evangeline, peeking out from her vi, was over the moon seeing Yale and Roslyn heading out together. She knew them both well enough. Yes, there was an age gap, but why let good fortune slip away to strangers?


    She was practically on the edge of her seat, rooting for them, almost ready to give them a nudge closer.


    However, as she was about to step back from her secret lookout, a familiar shadow caught her eye. Her gaze sharpened with a hint of danger.


    She could spot him in a crowd, even if he disguised himself.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    She had to give credit to Walter. The guy had some serious moves, waltzing in and out of the swanky Emerald of the Hignds like he owned the ce.


    She d not, in good conscience, fault the security. With Walter''s connections, there was not a nook in Avity he could not slip into.


    However, what puzzled her was how he had even thought to look for her here. Since the birthday party wrapped up, they had not so much as whispered about this birthday gift.


    If he had pinpointed her location with such precision, it was either a tip-off or the guy was just that


    cunning.


    Evangeline quickly scrapped thetter thought.


    Walter, spending his brainpower on her? As if.


    In that case, who ratted her out to Walter?


    Mulling over this, Evangeline ducked into a cozy nook with a killer view and plenty of shadows.


    Little did she know, the security at Emerald of the Hignds was outstanding for a reason. Walter''s smooth entry had nothing to do with his being Mr. Walter Gordon of the illustrious Gordon family.


    He gave the marriage certificate in his pocket a little pat, silently congratting himself.


    If he had not brought it along, fretting over proving his ties to Evangeline, he might have been stuck outside those vi gates. Yet, the guard had let slip that Evangeline had been shacked up heretely. With that, Walter strolled in, easy as pie.


    The little courtyard of the vi was straight out of a storybook, dotted with flowers and lush greenery, and home to Evangeline''s favorite-the once flower-adorned swing. With autumn''s touch, the swing''s blooms had vanished, leaving a skeleton of branches that had a charm, all their own.


    For Walter, it was his first time stepping into this scene. With every cautious step, he was acutely aware of the delicate thread his rtionship with Evangeline was hanging by.


    He had been on a relentless quest to find her, questioning anyone and everyone who might have crossed paths with her, but it was like she had vanished into thin air.


    Desperation had led him to a moment of rity. He knew Evangeline would not want her family to worry. That hunch had paid off when he tailed Yale straight to her secret refuge.


    Chapter 314.


    Standing at the vi''s gate, Walter hesitated. Should he enter? He had yed this moment over in his mind a million times, rehearsed his lines, but with Evangeline just beyond the wall, he was suddenly tongue-tied. "Evangeline, I know you''re in there. No more hiding, let''s talk!" he called out, hands cupped around his mouth, his voice booming toward the vi.


    What he did not realize was that his grand gesture had taken Evangeline by surprise.


    She could have turned the house into a maze, a game of hide and seek if he would have dared to intrude. Surprisingly, there he was, making a scene outside yet not daring to overstep his bounds.


    Evangeline''s lips twisted in a wry smile. After all his past antics, was he finally ying the gentleman?


    Evangeline made her way down the stairs, one step at a time, and swung the door open. There stood


    ''ter, just as she remembered him, but something was off.


    He was all decked out in his usual ck suit and a chic camel hair coat that kept him warm without bulking him up.

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    Chapter 315


    However, as Evangeline looked closer, she noticed the changes.


    Walter was the type of guy who always looked picture-perfect, a real public figure. However, after a few days out of sight, he sported a shadow of stubble on his chin, and his usually slick hair seemed a touch oily. The Walter from the prestigious Gordon family looked... well, a bit rough around the edges. Could he be looking like this because of her?


    The thought hit Evangeline like a punch to the gut, but she shook it off quickly.


    Why on earth would Walter let himself go for her sake? Maybe things were not going so hot with Minnie, and that was why he was here.


    "Come on in," she said indifferently. She did not even wait for a response before heading back inside.


    ey sat across from each other on the couch. Evangeline could not be bothered to offer Walter a drink and cut right to the chase. "Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re here, and we''re face to face. So, what''s up? Spit it out."


    She was the picture offortable and cute in her pale pink cotton pajamas and bunny slippers, legs crossed, swinging them back and forth with a yful air.


    Walter was caught off guard, staring at her a moment too long.


    He was filled with regret, deep regret. How had he missed it? Evangeline was gorgeous, with a killer figure. Was he blind all this time not to have noticed her before? Evangeline''s sharp gaze cut through Walter, and with a struggle, he finally found his voice.


    "I... Anyone else around?" Walter asked, his voice tinged with unease.


    The thought of apologizing to his wife made him squirm inside. A guy like him should be able to handle it, but the thought of their families witnessing his apology... He just could not face that level of embarrassment.


    Evangeline shot him a sidelong look. "Right now, it''s just us. But who knows when that''ll change?"


    Yale and Roslyn were out grocery shopping, but who could say if they were quick about it? If they snuck off for a private chat, their return was anyone''s guess.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "You might want to make the most of the time we have," she added coolly.


    After all, if Yale and Roslyn were not sidetracked, picking up some groceries would not take long.


    Walter''s heart ached at her icy tone. Knowing how much he cared, her cold words cut deep. He wanted to argue, to defend himself, but guilt over his past actions toward her weighed him down, silencing him. He had only snuck in after seeing Yale drive off, so he understood why Evangeline was nudging him to hurry up.


    "Why... did you vanish on me?"


    The question he had been dying to ask tumbled out first, amid the storm of thoughts swirling inside him.


    Evangeline let out a derisiveugh. "Me, vanish? That''s news to me."


    Her sharp retort left Walter speechless.


    "But I''ve been searching for you for days and couldn''t find you anywhere..."


    "That''s your mess, not mine," said Evangeline, flicking a stray hair from her shirt as if she were flicking away Walter himself.


    Just as they were on the brink of a full-blown argument, the growl of a car engine interrupted them.


    Walter forgot all about hiseback, sprinting to the window. Sure enough, there was Yale''s car, unmistakable even from here.

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    Chapter 316


    Evangeline just shrugged and rolled her eyes at Walter.


    ''I warned you to make the most of your time, but you wasted it. Now look who''s back?'' she thought, her scornful nce saying it all. Walter got the message loud and clear.


    However, before he could react, he grabbed Evangeline''s wrist, yanked her into the bathroom, and mmed the door shut behind them.


    Evangeline blinked, realizing she was trapped in the bathroom with Walter.


    "Come on. If Uncle Yale''s back, he''s back. What''s the big deal with hiding?"


    ngeline gave an inward sigh of exasperation. If Walter did not want to face him, he could have hidden ne. Why drag her, the owner of the vi, into this? Walter mped a hand over her mouth and whispered urgently in her ear, "Shh! I followed Yale here. It''d look terrible if we got caught, wouldn''t it?" Evangeline frowned in annoyance.


    She had expected Walter to have some clever n, not... stalking!


    Then again, something else did not add up. Yale was no ordinary guy; he was a retired special ops soldier. Would he not notice if he was being tailed?


    A chill ran through Evangeline''s heart.


    Was Yale onto Walter''s sneaky tailing and had led him on a wild goose chase?


    "Ugh," Evangeline whimpered as she struggled.


    Walter, for once, showed a bit of understanding.


    "You want me to let go? Think you can zip it?" he whispered.


    Evangeline nodded furiously, her eyebrows dancing with the effort.


    Hiding in her own house like some sort of burr was a joke!


    "We really don''t have to camp out in the bathroom," she murmured, eyeing the door warily.


    Imagine if one of those two needed a bathroom break. They would be found out!


    "How about I show you a sweet spot if you''re okay with it?"


    Evangeline was not exactly being charitable. Walter being discovered did not really shake her world. No, she was all about catching thetest scoop on Roslyn and Yale. Walter looked skeptical, but the determined Evangeline threw up three fingers in a scout''s honor promise.


    They crept up to a hidden nook on the second floor. Tucked beside the nook was a window-a front-row seat to the courtyard drama.


    Evangeline was not about to give up that prime spot. She nudged Walter aside and glued her eyes to the scene, shooting him a "shush" for good measure.


    Down below, Roslyn and Yale emerged from the garage. Both were frowning.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Roslyn stormed ahead, hands empty and face stormy. Yale, who was usually level-headed, was lugging a bunch of stuff, darting away like he was trying to dodge raindrops. Was that a guilty conscience she saw?


    Evangeline smirked mischievously. She had never seen Yale look so flustered!


    "Tsk, tsk..." She rested her chin on her hand, making a sound without even realizing it.


    Next to her, Walter chimed in, not bothering to sugarcoat his words. "What''s got youughing so joyfully?"


    specially with those crafty eyes of hers, Walter could not just look away even if he tried.


    Yet, this side of Evangeline also piqued his interest. Towering over her with his height, Walter scooped Evangeline up by the waist, spun her behind him, and then leaned against the window to take a peek himself.

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    Chapter 317


    Evangeline was absorbed by the scene unfolding before her when Walter rudely cut in, and she was not having any of it. "Walter! I found that spot first, scoot over!"


    From the window, Walter caught sight of Roslyn and Yale approaching the vi, Yale''s hands full of snacks.


    That was pretty much it.


    62%


    He stepped aside, letting her have the prime spot with a roll of his eyes, saying, "All yours! What''s so great about it anyway?"


    Evangeline quickly leaned forward to get a better look, only to find the two standing at the vi''s entrance, having a heated exchange. Roslyn, ever the spitfire, was pointing right at Yale''s face as she spoke.


    As they were too far to catch their words, Evangeline could only guess from Roslyn''s fiery stance that this was no friendly chat.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    What really surprised Evangeline was Yale''s reaction.


    With his status, women usually fell over themselves to please him. Who would dare to lose their cool in front of him?


    All that, yet in the face of Roslyn''s fiery tirade, Yale just stood there indifferently, showing little to no emotion.


    Back in the day, Yale would have breezed through the front door without a second nce at anyone. Surprisingly, he simply stood awkwardly on the doorstep, enduring Roslyn''s tirade. What was going on with these two? Evangeline could not help but get a thrill from the drama, her hands eagerly rubbing together.


    Roslyn had reached her limit with Yale acting like an overbearing parent, and she was not shy about pushing back hard.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, let me repeat myself: Please stop meddling in my life, will you?"


    Her firm stance put Yale in an awkward spot, his pride taking a hit.


    "Your life is yours to control, I''m just worried about your job."


    Roslyn was around the same age as his niece, and he could not help but fuss over her a bit more.


    However, Roslyn did not appreciate his concern. For every word he said, she had aeback locked and


    loaded.


    AA


    D


    With a coldugh, Roslyn doubled down. "Alright, let me make myself clear once more: Stop butting into my life and job, got it?"


    Yale was at a loss for words, "Okay."


    Roslyn was just a kid, but not his kid, not a Foster. He really was overstepping.


    Just as he finished speaking, however, he caught sight of her reddening eyes.


    Seeing her so upset threw the usually stoic Yale off bnce.


    "Uh..." Did he say something wrong?


    If his hands were not full of shopping bags, he would probably be nervously rubbing them together.


    He just could not stand to see girls cry, and Roslyn, with her tear-streaked cheeks, was no exception. Before he could even get a word in, Roslyn cut him off. "Remember what you said just now, because next time we bump into each other, we''re nothing but strangers!" Without a backward nce, Roslyn marched to the door, her fingers flying over the fingerprint lock to swing it open and slip inside.


    Despite her cool facade, her heart was pounding like a drum, each thump loud and fierce, making her knees feel like jelly.


    She had always believed she held a special ce in Yale''s heart.


    However, after what happened back there...


    She stealthily dabbed away the tears at the edge of her eyes and ground her teeth.


    Maybe this was for the best. This way, she would not cling to any false hopes about Yale.

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    Chapter 318


    Everything else fell into ce when Roslyn epted the fact that she would never have a chance. She could finally let go of Yale.


    Was she okay with it, though?


    Far from it, but it was not about whether she was okay or not anymore. It was something she had to do.


    "Evie? Yale and I are back with some food. Come pick out what you want to eat, will you?"


    Roslyn''s legs might have turned to jelly from her spat with Yale, but she was determined to keep up appearances. Thus, she perched on the couch and called for Evangeline toe downstairs.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Yale could tell something was up with Roslyn''s mood, but since he was the one who put his foot in his mouth, he did not dare to push it. He did as she asked, setting the grocery bags on the coffee table.


    He was clueless about what he had said to upset her so much.


    Mood swings in a girl could ur unexpectedly, he thought. Maybe he was just an old guy who could not keep up. He thus decided he would keep to himself and stay out of trouble, even though he only wanted what was best for her...


    Evangeline had no clue about the storm of emotions brewing in the two people downstairs. When she heard her name, she knew it was her cue to head down.


    However, the moment she took a step, a strong hand clutched her arm.


    "You''re not seriously thinking of ditching me here, are you?" Walter grumbled.


    Evangeline shrugged and retorted sarcastically, "What do you think? Want to join me for a little meet and greet with Uncle Yale downstairs?"


    Her eyes twinkled with mischief as she threw out the challenge, unable to mask the yful menace in her.


    gaze.


    To Walter, though, her feisty demeanor was nothing short of charming. This was a side of Evangeline he had never seen before-gone was the girl who either groveled or seemed untouchable. She was like a celestial being stepping into the mundane world, her presence grounding and utterly real.


    "Forget it, you''re staying put right here!" Walter dered, pulling her back firmly. His worry that she might bolt made him wrap his arms around her, effectively trapping her. "Walter, you''re crossing the line!"


    After the car incident, Evangeline''s gut reaction to Walter''s closeness was one of pure aversion. She could not bear the thought of any contact with him..


    Their previous conversations were one thing, but being enveloped in Walter''s arms, feeling his skin against hers, was a constant reminder of that night''s vulnerability and shame. "Then stay put!


    Walter''s heart skipped a beat when he felt her tense up in his embrace. He did not want to be left alone,


    All he got for his trouble was an eye roll so epic It could have won awards.


    "Roslyn is looking for me. If I don''t respond, won''t she think something''s up ande looking for me?"


    However, just as Evangeline finished her sentence, Yale''s voice, tinged with suspicion and concern, echoed through the room, "Evie''s been too quiet for too long. Could something be wrong?" He was usually confident in the security of the Emerald of the Hignds, the upscale neighborhood where they lived.


    However, with Evangeline''s recent sh with Walter and her sour mood, he could not help but worry.


    Roslyn, however, was not the least bit concerned. "Evie''s working on a song for my new album. She''s probably deep in her creative zone right now. Let''s not disturb her, okay?" Evangeline was known to be a workaholic, a fact that was no secret to either of them, leaving Yale without much room to argue.


    Meanwhile, the atmosphere between the two of them downstairs was growing increasingly awkward.


    Walter, seizing the moment, let go of Evangeline, but whispered in her ear with a sly grin, "See, they think you''re off writing a song.

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    Chapter 319Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "And what of it? Walter, don''t you realize that dodging today just means facing everything tomorrow? They might buy the songwriting excuse for now, but I''ll bet you, in half an hour, even if Uncle Yale doesn''te up, Roslyn will. What then? "What will you do when you can''t hide anymore?"


    Evangeline was trying to goad Walter into releasing her, but she ended up giving him a reminder instead.


    Walter had no desire to bump into Yale, so staying here was out of the question.


    "No more hiding. Let''s get out of here," he decided impulsively.


    Evangeline scoffed. "What, are you blind?"


    She gestured toward the stairs. "My Uncle Yale and Roslyn are in the living room. So, where to?"


    If she wanted to slip away unnoticed, there was a back door to the vi. That being said, why on earth should she help Walter make a getaway?


    Out of nowhere, Walter shed a chillingly white grin, his smile dripping with malice. "Come on, I know about the back door, don''t y dumb!" He reached out to Evangeline. "The keys, please.


    "Why should I? You''re the intruder here, not me. How can you be so bold to ask me for a favor?" Evangeline shot back with a defiant re. "No keys? Fine, I''ll just tell Yale you''re dragging me here, that you were worried I''d get losting here "and had me sneak in with you..." He was practically inviting disaster!


    She had already spilled the beans about this whole mess to her uncles. If Yale found out she was teaming


    up


    with Walter to trick him, what would that make her?


    Evangeline clenched her teeth. "You''re heartless!"


    At the vi''s back door, Evangeline and Walter crept out.


    Having finally managed to get Walter to the gate without any drama, Evangeline folded her arms and kicked him out without a second thought. Walter was the one person Evangeline could not stand. s, he was clueless, always finding excuses to show up. It was exasperating!


    She said with a tone as sharp as a knife, "Get lost, and don''t you daree back. You''re thest person we want to see here!"


    To her surprise, Walter cheerfully answered, "Sure thing!"


    This vi might be stylishly luxurious, but it was not his ce to call home. Why was he shacking up in someone else''s fancy vi with his girl? As Evangeline''s eyes widened in shock, Walter caught on to what she was thinking.


    He did not give her a chance to protest. He lifted her by the waist as he took off running, his voice booming, "Then you''reing with me, like it or not!" Evangeline wriggled and squirmed in his grip. "Who says I''m going anywhere with you? Let go, you big oaf!"


    However hard she tried, she could not break free from Walter''s vice-like grip. Her hands might as well have been tickling him for all the good they did! "Evangeline, you''re already caught. Why won''t you just behave?" he teased.


    With a mischievous smack on her behind, Walter seemed to cast a spell that froze her in ce.


    "Settle down, it''ll be easier for both of us!"


    To keep them out of the spotlight, Walter had parked the car a mile away.


    Evangeline was not making it easy, so he had to lug her all that distance. If she wore him out, he would have no choice but to let her down and let her walk.


    Evangeline had been in Avalon City for a good while, but she had never stepped foot in Secret Recipe Kitchen until this day. She figured it was because she was always busy, never having a moment to drop by this cozy little eatery. Walter, however, was on a first-name basis with the staff, a clear sign he was a regr.


    Evangeline and Walter were ushered by the server into a cozy private room. It was not until she settled. into her chair that she had the chance to take in her surroundings.


    Secret Recipe Kitchen boasted a decor that was both elegant and simple. Everyday items were transformed by the designer''s touch into something that caught the eye and demanded admiration for the owner''s impable taste. It made sense to her why the illustrious Walter of the Gordon family would choose this ce.


    The server handed Evangeline the menu, and Walter was all easygoing.


    "Pick whatever you like," he said.


    We heart twisted a bit when he caught sight of Evangeline''s pale, delicate face. It was that look that


    had driven him to ignore her protests and whisk her away from the vi.


    Evangeline had long since stopped caring about Walter''s actions, but his gentlemanly offer piqued her curiosity, even though she could not shake off her .


    She slid the menu back across the table. "Thanks for the offer, but you go ahead and order."


    Walter, caught off guard, took the menu and tried to make a suggestion.


    "I''ve been here loads of times. The food''s great. Why don''t you just pick a couple of things..."


    He was cut off mid-sentence by Evangeline, who said, "Don''t bother, I''m not hungry."


    She meant it. Just being around Walter was enough to kill her appetite.


    Lately, she could not figure out what was wrong with her. Ever since she had holed up in the vi, she had been hit with this overwhelming lethargy. She slept as if she could never catch up on rest, which made her lose much of her interest in food. Evangeline had zero appetite, and Walter, sitting across from her, was not helping. How could she even think of eating?


    The waiter gave Walter a look, clearly waiting for him to make up his mind about the menu.


    Walter hesitantly picked a few dishes he thought Evangeline might like. Once the waiter took off, he broke the silence. "How do you like the ce?"


    "It''s nothing special." Evangeline slumped onto the couch, letting out a huge yawn. She would much rather sleep than have a meal at the moment.


    s, she knew that was just a pipe dream. She had to figure out Walter''s game. He was not about to let her walk away without answers.


    "Out with it. Why''d you pull me out here? What''s the big n?"


    A nasty image shed through her mind, and she could not help but mock with a sarcastic edge, "Are you telling me you didn''t get your fill that night and now you''re waiting to take me somewhere private for a repeat performance after I''m well-fed?" She loathed being toyed with, but since Walter seemed to enjoy it, she threw the words back at him, stinging him and reminding herself at the same time.


    Walter


    was a wolf in sheep''s clothing. His polished look could be deceiving. Strip away the suit, and he was less than an animal.


    No way was she going to hand her heart over to him again, just to be trampled on!


    "Evangeline!" Walter''s voice boomed with anger.


    Her words were as good as a p to his face. Did he not have any pride?


    However, since he was the one at fault, he had to bite back his pride.


    "I was wrong about that night. Let''s not dwell on it..."


    "And what of it? Walter, don''t you realize that dodging today just means facing everything tomorrow? They might buy the songwriting excuse for now, but I''ll bet you, in half an hour, even if Uncle Yale doesn''te up, Roslyn will. What then? "What will you do when you can''t hide anymore?"


    Evangeline was trying to goad Walter into releasing her, but she ended up giving him a reminder instead.


    Walter had no desire to bump into Yale, so staying here was out of the question.


    "No more hiding. Let''s get out of here," he decided impulsively.


    Evangeline scoffed. "What, are you blind?"


    She gestured toward the stairs. "My Uncle Yale and Roslyn are in the living room. So, where to?"


    If she wanted to slip away unnoticed, there was a back door to the vi. That being said, why on earth should she help Walter make a getaway?


    Out of nowhere, Walter shed a chillingly white grin, his smile dripping with malice. "Come on, I know about the back door, don''t y dumb!" He reached out to Evangeline. "The keys, please.


    "Why should I? You''re the intruder here, not me. How can you be so bold to ask me for a favor?" Evangeline shot back with a defiant re. "No keys? Fine, I''ll just tell Yale you''re dragging me here, that you were worried I''d get losting here "and had me sneak in with you..." He was practically inviting disaster!


    She had already spilled the beans about this whole mess to her uncles. If Yale found out she was teaming


    up


    with Walter to trick him, what would that make her?


    Evangeline clenched her teeth. "You''re heartless!"


    At the vi''s back door, Evangeline and Walter crept out.


    Having finally managed to get Walter to the gate without any drama, Evangeline folded her arms and kicked him out without a second thought. Walter was the one person Evangeline could not stand. s, he was clueless, always finding excuses to show up. It was exasperating!


    She said with a tone as sharp as a knife, "Get lost, and don''t you daree back. You''re thest person we want to see here!"


    To her surprise, Walter cheerfully answered, "Sure thing!"


    This vi might be stylishly luxurious, but it was not his ce to call home. Why was he shacking up in someone else''s fancy vi with his girl?


    As Evangeline''s eyes widened in shock, Walter caught on to what she was thinking.


    He did not give her a chance to protest. He lifted her by the waist as he took off running, his voice booming, "Then you''reing with me, like it or not!" Evangeline wriggled and squirmed in his grip. "Who says I''m going anywhere with you? Let go, you big oaf!"


    However hard she tried, she could not break free from Walter''s vice-like grip. Her hands might as well have been tickling him for all the good they did! "Evangeline, you''re already caught. Why won''t you just behave?" he teased.


    With a mischievous smack on her behind, Walter seemed to cast a spell that froze her in ce.


    "Settle down, it''ll be easier for both of us!"


    To keep them out of the spotlight, Walter had parked the car a mile away.


    Evangeline was not making it easy, so he had to lug her all that distance. If she wore him out, he would have no choice but to let her down and let her walk.

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    Evangeline had been in Avalon City for a good while, but she had never stepped foot in Secret Recipe Kitchen until this day. She figured it was because she was always busy, never having a moment to drop by this cozy little eatery. Walter, however, was on a first-name basis with the staff, a clear sign he was a regr.


    Evangeline and Walter were ushered by the server into a cozy private room. It was not until she settled. into her chair that she had the chance to take in her surroundings.


    Secret Recipe Kitchen boasted a decor that was both elegant and simple. Everyday items were transformed by the designer''s touch into something that caught the eye and demanded admiration for the owner''s impable taste. It made sense to her why the illustrious Walter of the Gordon family would choose this ce.


    The server handed Evangeline the menu, and Walter was all easygoing.


    "Pick whatever you like," he said.


    We heart twisted a bit when he caught sight of Evangeline''s pale, delicate face. It was that look that


    had driven him to ignore her protests and whisk her away from the vi.


    Evangeline had long since stopped caring about Walter''s actions, but his gentlemanly offer piqued her curiosity, even though she could not shake off her .


    She slid the menu back across the table. "Thanks for the offer, but you go ahead and order."Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter, caught off guard, took the menu and tried to make a suggestion.


    "I''ve been here loads of times. The food''s great. Why don''t you just pick a couple of things..."


    He was cut off mid-sentence by Evangeline, who said, "Don''t bother, I''m not hungry."


    She meant it. Just being around Walter was enough to kill her appetite.


    Lately, she could not figure out what was wrong with her. Ever since she had holed up in the vi, she had been hit with this overwhelming lethargy. She slept as if she could never catch up on rest, which made her lose much of her interest in food. Evangeline had zero appetite, and Walter, sitting across from her, was not helping. How could she even think of eating?


    The waiter gave Walter a look, clearly waiting for him to make up his mind about the menu.


    Walter hesitantly picked a few dishes he thought Evangeline might like. Once the waiter took off, he broke the silence. "How do you like the ce?"


    "It''s nothing special." Evangeline slumped onto the couch, letting out a huge yawn. She would much rather sleep than have a meal at the moment.


    s, she knew that was just a pipe dream. She had to figure out Walter''s game. He was not about to let her walk away without answers.


    "Out with it. Why''d you pull me out here? What''s the big n?"


    A nasty image shed through her mind, and she could not help but mock with a sarcastic edge, "Are you telling me you didn''t get your fill that night and now you''re waiting to take me somewhere private for a repeat performance after I''m well-fed?" She loathed being toyed with, but since Walter seemed to enjoy it, she threw the words back at him, stinging him and reminding herself at the same time.


    Walter


    was a wolf in sheep''s clothing. His polished look could be deceiving. Strip away the suit, and he was less than an animal.


    No way was she going to hand her heart over to him again, just to be trampled on!


    "Evangeline!" Walter''s voice boomed with anger.


    Her words were as good as a p to his face. Did he not have any pride?


    However, since he was the one at fault, he had to bite back his pride.


    "I was wrong about that night. Let''s not dwell on it..."

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    #25 BONUS


    Walter tried to sort out his messy feelings, thinking he was being sincere with his apology.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    It was a shame, really. Walter was earnest, but his words danced around the fact that he should be saying


    sorry.


    Evangeline could not catch a whiff of realness in his so-called sincerity. It felt more like he was just going through the motions.


    "No big deal. I''ve been over it for ages." Evangeline tossed the words out without a second thought, her eyes drifting to the horizon, all cool and confident.


    Walter was not the one who had been put through the wringer. He was not the one who had been treated like dirt. How could he, the guy who started the whole mess, ever get what she went through? Evangeline''s chill vibe was all because she had seen the real Walter and decided he was not worth the drama. Why bother caring about a guy she did not even want anymore?


    Walter was not clueless, though. If Evangeline was bringing this up, she was obviously still hung up on it.


    Even so, she had wrapped up her response so neatly. He was stuck between a rock and a hard ce.


    "If that''s how it is, can we just drop this whole thing and move on, please?" He threw the question out there, testing the waters.


    He had lost his cool once and hurt Evangeline. He truly regretted it.


    However, if she was willing to let bygones be bygones, he would go out of his way to be nice, so much so that she would forget all the not-so-nice stuff and forgive the hurt he had caused. "Yeah, sure." Evangeline was oddly agreeable today, and with those two little words, Walter felt like he had finally hit the jackpot.


    Unfortunately for him, she was not done talking.


    "I''ve picked up the divorce papers. We''re done, and everything is wiped clean. No need to bring up this kind of gross stuff ever again.


    Nobody liked to dig up memories of getting hurt.


    Evangeline was convinced that if she could just keep her distance from Walter, the dark cloud of their shared history would eventually lift from her memory.


    Walter, blindsided by her resolve, could not fathom her desire to escape.


    "Forget about it. I''m never going to agree to a divorce!" he dered. He had made promises to Cole, and his feelings for Evangeline had taken root too deeply to simply walk away.


    At the heart of it all, Alex was to me. Alex knew Evangeline was off-limits, his brother''s wife, yet he could not resist meddling!


    Walter felt a rush of anger, but it was not even about Evangeline, who stood before him, begging for a


    divorce.


    "What''s the point of hanging onto our marriage certificate when things havee to this? We might as


    well set each other free," she argued, her voice heavy with resignation. Beyond her own tangled emotions, there was the business between the Fosters and the Gordons to consider. Their families were already at each other''s throats because of their failed marriage, and she could not bear the thought of causing more.


    trouble.


    She wanted to end things with Walter amicably.


    "And let''s face it, you''ve got Minnie," Evangeline added sarcastically. "She''s head over heels for you. would be cruel not to give her a chance, right?"


    Saying it out loud, Evangeline was struck by her own indifference. Once, she might have described her feelings for Walter as deep and unwavering. However, the thought of him with another woman at this moment left her feeling... nothi

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    "Stop it!" Walter''s hand came down hard on the table.


    Evangeline was spouting words about splitting up, and it was like a punch to Walter''s gut, especially when she coldly brought up Minnie.


    "Evangeline, if you don''t care about our marriage anyway, why are you so set on getting a divorce. certificate? If you outlive me, you could still inherit a chunk of the Gordon fortune with that piece of paper. Why pass that up?" He tried to reason with her like a businessman, thinking it might change her mind.


    Evangeline justughed. It was augh so sharp that it cut through the air.


    "What''s so funny?" Walter demanded.


    Evangeline dabbed at the tears that had spilled fromughing too hard. "It''s you I''mughing at, Walter. You think that talking about money will make me want to stay married to you.


    "Oh, Walter, you''re something else! How much money do the Gordons even have? What fraction of it would I get after you''re gone? And even if you left me everyst dime, what''s that worthpared to being free?" Her words hit Walter like a flurry of punches, leaving him red-faced and speechless.


    Evangeline was not done. A wicked idea sparked in her mind, and she was ready to turn up the heat.


    "I''m the Foster family''s darling, their little princess. Did you think I''d be impressed with the scraps the Gordons toss my way?"


    If Walter was serious about keeping their marriage deal on the table, he would have to up his game.


    why does it have to be a trade-off? I''ll make you a deal: From today on, I won''t meddle in your business


    All you have to do is steer clear of Alex."N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    "No way, that''s not happening!" Evangeline was adamant. Alex was her rock, the one who understood her. She would never turn her back on him, not for anyone.


    Walter, the guy who had stolen her heart with just one look but kept messing up and hurting her, was no contest. Alex meant the world to her, and Walter... Well, he was just another face in the crowd.


    "Why?" Walter was fuming, his eyes bulging. He sucked in a breath, trying to appear calm, but inside, he was a stormy sea


    When had Alex be so crucial to her? He had been begging her to stick to their marriage n, but she would not budge, all because of that infuriating Alex. Jealousy was eating him alive, a relentless pain that left him with nothing but a firestorm in his head. Walter could not even tell if it was the green-eyed monster or sheer anger that was fueling his fire.


    Evangeline dropped a sentence that scattered Walter''s pent-up emotions like smoke in the wind. "You''re al Jerk, Walter, but Alex isn''t."


    Just like that, the fire in him was snuffed out, his feelings vanished in an instant. Walter felt like he had been drenched with ice water from head to toe. It left him with nothing but a hollow ache in his chest and


    Chapter


    a sense of being utterly lost.


    "Evangeline..."


    His voice caught, a torrent of unsaid words stuck in his throat. His lips trembled, but all he could manage was to whisper her name, clueless about what else to say.


    Right then, the waiter signaled that it was time to eat.


    The delicious dishes arrived one after another, filling the air with their enticing scent.


    To Evangeline, the presence of others was a wee escape.

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    Evangeline could not pinpoint when it started, but her interactions with Walter had grown increasingly bizarre, so much so that she felt better off far away from him.


    She had no desire to exchange words with him.


    "Let''s just eat, okay?" Evangeline made a show of eagerly reaching for her fork, not bothering to wait for Walter''s cue, and helped herself to a dish,


    Walter felt a sting at being cut off, but seeing Evangeline, who had just been iming she was not hungry, diving into her meal, he did not want to spoil her newfound appetite. With that, he too started eating.


    The tuna steak was the Secret Recipe Kitchen''s im to fame, and Walter''s go-to dish every time he visited.


    Evangeline was only trying to dodge a conversation with Walter, so she grabbed a fork and poked at the restaurant''s famous dish without thinking. As she brought a piece of fish to her lips, a pungent fishy scent hit her nose. A wave of nausea threatened to overwhelm her, but she fought it back with effort


    She figured it was just because she had not had fish in a while. Bracing herself, she popped the fish into her mouth. It was tender and vorful, truly a dish to remember. However...


    "Ugh..."N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    The queasiness won out, and Evangeline could not hold back. She threw up, and with nothing in her stomach, she was left with painful dry heaves. Her face, already pale, turned a shade paler after the ordeal.


    Walter dropped his silverware and rushed to her side, patting her back gently. Once she seemed slightly better, he quickly got her a ss of water.


    "Feeling any better?"


    After rinsing the lingering fishy taste from her mouth with the water, Evangeline felt somewhat relieved.


    "Maybe it''s just my messed-up sleep scheduletely, or my stomach''s not doing great. Don''t mind me, Just go back to your meal."


    She was not worried about Walter, it was their closeness that bothered her. It was so close that it brought back bad memories, making her skin crawl. Walter was thinking about taking Evangeline to the hospital when a sweet, familiar female voice reached


    them.


    Is Mr. Walter Gordon here too? Which room is he in? We''re great friends, and it''s always more fun to eat together, isn''t it?"


    The moment Evangeline heard those footsteps, she recalled a face as beautiful as an angel''s-Minnie''s face.


    No one else came to mind.


    Down the hall, the footsteps edged closer, and Evangeline could just make out the sound of wheels rolling across the floor.


    +35 BONUS


    Her eyes sparkled with hope.


    Could it be? Had Alexe too?


    The more she thought about it, the more it made sense. Minnie had just gotten back from overseas and did not hang out with anyone but Alex. Plus, they were very close, with Alex being Minnie''s teacher. Evangeline did not realize that Walter was watching her, puzzled by her sudden burst of joy at Minnie''s arrival. However, he did not have to wonder for long.


    "Excuse me, miss, but we highly respect our guests'' privacy here. We can''t let you disturb anyone without their consent. And just so you know, we''d do the same for you-no special treatment." The waitress'' textbook reply only irked Minnie more.


    "You don''t believe me?"

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    Minnie did not even wait for an answer before she lost her patience.


    "You must be the new kid, huh? I won''t hold it against you if you''re inexperienced. Just go get your manager, now!"


    The waitress blushed with embarrassment, but she did not back down. Working at a ce this fancy meant she was no pushover.


    "I''m sorry, miss. I am indeed new and still learning. If this was about anything else, I''d say you''re right-it''s on me. But when ites to our guests'' privacy, not even the manager can bend the rules." Her attempt to calm things down only made Minnie mare furious.


    "Even if it doesn''t make a difference, I demand to speak with your manager! What''s a waitress like you doing, trying to boss me around? You don''t even know your ce! This is yourst chance. Are you calling your manager or not?"


    The waitress had never seen a customer like this since she had started working.


    Minnie''s voice was so loud that the lobby manager caught wind of the fuss and came over. She bowed to Minnie and said with utmost courtesy, "Miss, I''m so sorry that our service has upset you. I''m the lobby manager. Please, let me know what''s wrong." Minnie stood with her arms folded and her chin up, exuding an air of superiority. "This waitress'' attitude is terrible. You should just fire her!"


    The lobby manager kept her smile. "She''s new, just started a few days ago. Neers need a bit of practice, right? Since she''s spoiled your meal, I''ll take over and serve you myself. How''s that sound?"


    Her response was a masterstroke, giving Minnie the respect she craved without letting her meddle in staff matters.


    The lobby manager''s diplomacy won silent apuse from those watching.


    Minnie, having embarrassed herself, could only huff in annoyance, unable to regain herposure.


    "I don''t care who works for you, but I know Mr. Walter Gordon of the Gordon family is here, and I want to share a table with him. Are you going to take me to him or not?" Saying this, Minnie''s handnded on Alex''s wheelchair as if she was about to whisk him away.


    The lobby manager''s face showed her dilemma,


    "Look, I''m really sorry, but I can''t let you into Mr. Walter Gordon''s private room," said the lobby manager with a forced politeness that did not quite mask her refusal to Minnie.


    "Our guests'' privacy is a top priority here. I have no idea how you found out Mr. Walter Gordon was eating here, but he''s in a private room for a reason-he doesn''t want to be bothered." "Okay, if you don''t trust me, that''s your call. But surely you recognize this guy?" Minnie nodded toward Alex, who she was nudging forward.


    "This is Mr. Walter Gordon''s brother, Alex. They bumped into each other right here in your restaurant.


    Think carefully about whether you want to keep us out here or not."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The lobby manager''s forehead glistened with sweat, but she mped her mouth shut, lost in thought.


    The standoff continued in silence, neither side willing to break it.


    Meanwhile, inside the private room, Evangeline and Walter heard every word of the exchange.


    Walter, in particr, felt a sting when he realized Alex had arrived, linking it instantly to the smirk that had danced on Evangeline''s lips. Chapter 325

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    No wonder Evangeline was so pleased. Alex had shown up.


    "Should we invite them in?" Walter asked Evangeline, trying to sound generous, but inside, a storm of jealousy was brewing.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    All he had wanted was a quiet dinner with Evangeline, but Alex, like a shadow, was always there, trailing them wherever they went! Was he that desperate? Did he not care about what he and Evangeline had anymore?


    Evangeline saw things in a totally different light than everyone else. While Walter was practically talking to himself, obviously itching to see Minnie, Evangeline had moved on. To her, Minnie was just another face in the crowd, not worth a second thought. "Sure, a dinner for four could be fun," said Evangeline with a shrug, pretending not to care.


    She had not hung out with Alex in ages, and while she was ying matchmaker for Walter and Minnie, she could also spend some time with an old friend.


    Walter bolted out the door so fast he did not even remember to shut it behind him. Evangeline watched


    him go, her mouth twitching in amusement. Was he that desperate to see Minnie?


    Out of nowhere, a chill ran down her spine.


    Before she knew it, Walter was back, Minnie and Alex in tow. Walter sat Alex down across from


    Evangeline and took the seat right by her side. Evangeline shot a nce at Minnie, who was right across from her, and thought, ''Who''s the genius who arranged these seats?''


    She was stuck with the two people she could barely stand, especially Minnie, who was impossible to Ignore.


    Nheless, Evangeline knew she had to keep calm, regardless of internal thoughts and feelings. She shed a breezy smile and said, "Alex, Ms. Kast, it''s been a while."


    The statement was merely a formality, simply meant to convey politeness. However, Minnie''s reply was way too enthusiastic for Evangeline''s taste.


    "Yeah, it''s been ages since I''ve seen Evangeline. Last time was in an Avalon University ssroom,


    was..." and I


    Minnie''s excitement bubbled over as she talked away, her cheeks flushing a bright pink. Walter, with a sense of urgency, ced a dish onto Minnie''s te, interrupting her.


    "Ms Kast, you''ve got to try this. Secret Recipe Kitchen nails it every time."


    His voice was chilly. If one listened closely, A note of annoyance could be caught.


    Truth was, he just wanted Minnie to zip it before she dredged up memories that would upset Evangeline.


    However, Walter''s n was about to fail miserably.


    Out of the corner of her eye, Evangeline saw the dish Walter had served to Minnie, and it was like a punch to the gut. Her heart, already heavy at the sight of this woman, clenched painfully.


    She and Walter had been married for a good while, but he would hardly ever serve her food like that. Here he was, dishing up for Minnie right in front of her. Was he unting their closeness?


    Minnie caught on to the undercurrents, her face turning an even deeper shade of red. She dropped her gaze, her usually chatty mouth suddenly out of words. After a tense pause, she managed to whisper a timid, "Thank you." Her reaction was a dead giveaway-Walter''s unexpected kindness made her feel tongue-tied.

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    Minnie grabbed her fork and knife, gingerly picking up the vegetables Walter had dished out for her. She then ate it, making a big show of tasting them, when her eyes suddenly sparkled with delight. "Walter, this is amazing! I''ve never had anything so yummy in my life!"


    Across the table, Evangeline''s gaze was fixed on Minnie''s twinkling eyes. Her emotions were a tangled mess that words could not quite capture.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Had she not overheard Minnie''s chat with the lobby manager, Evangeline might have fallen for the whole innocent young girl'' act. However, seeing Minnie flip her script so fast, it just looked very fake. That sugary sweet way she said Walter''s name was enough to make Evangeline''s calmed stomach do somersaults.


    There was Minnie, still ying her part, batting her eyshes at Walter,


    Walter''s gaze was a deep well of nothingness, impossible to read.


    Evangeline silently vowed to catch Walter''s reaction, but her stomach had other ns.


    "Ugh...


    She had not eaten much, so there was nothing toe up, but the retching was unbearable, and tears started streaming down her face.


    Minnie''s eyes went wide as if she had just struck gold.


    "Oh no, Evangeline, did you just throw up? You''re not pregnant, are you? Alex mentioned you''ve been wanting kids, and if you''re expecting, that''s just wonderful news!"


    Evangeline managed a weak grin, but inside, a wave of doubt washed over her.


    Evangeline and Alex had always been close, so her dream of having kids was never a secret between them.


    However, this was her personal business. Would Alex really spill the beans about something so private to Minnie? "Thanks, but sadly, I''m just a bit queasy."


    Why she felt queasy was for Minnie to guess.


    Evangeline stood up and said, "Everyone, keep eating. I''m going to the restroom?


    "I''lle with you." No sooner had Evangeline stepped forward than Minnie was on her heels.


    Man, this woman was a pain!


    Evangeline could not help but roll her eyes, wishing she could just keep Minnie at arm''s length.


    So, she put on her best ''do not disturb'' vibe and did not say a peep to Minnie on the way.


    It turned out that it was not always possible to avoid the bullet.


    Once they got to the restroom, Minnie seized her chance.


    "Evangeline, you and Walter have been hitched for ages with no kids. Is it because things are rocky?"


    Minnie pped a hand over her mouth, realizing her blunder, but then blurted out again, "Or, can you just not have kids? Geez, a woman who can''t have kids is like a hen that doesn''ty eggs, right? The Gordon n... They''re after an heir, aren''t they?" Minnie ended that with a sigh, emphasizing the word ''heir".


    Evangeline gave a little cough and cleared her throat: "Ms. Kast, are you saying you''re the fertile one?"


    Minnie''s intentions were as clear as day to Evangeline. She was just trying to get a rise out of her, using herck of a baby bump as a weapon to chip away at her resolve and convince her to stop pining for Walter. That kind of tactic might work on the average woman, but Minnie was dealing with Evangeline.

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    Evangeline was the Foster family''s darling, a girl wrapped in velvet and born with a spine of steel. She had immense pride and a rebel heart to match. She had moved on from Walter, and even the idea of having his baby did not cling to her like it used to. She was all about letting the chips fall where they may However, Minnie''s little jab? That just lit a fire under her.


    "L... I think I can have kids," said Minnie, a flicker of surprise crossing her face before she had spoken a tad sheepishly.


    "You think?" Evangeline raised an eyebrow, sounding concerned. "Ever had a pre-pregnancy checkup? You know, to see if everything''s in working order? It takes more than wishful thinking to know for sure."


    Julia and Minnie, neither married, would not normally have considered such a personal medical exam.


    "I... I''m not even married yet. Isn''t it a bit premature to get checked out?" Minnie shot back usingly as if Evangeline was making a mountain out of a molehill with her unsolicited advice.


    "Premature? I think it''s a smart move," Evangeline replied, her voice surprisingly gentle. She gave Minnie''s hand a reassuring pat, her eyes full of sincerity as she continued to encourage her.


    "The Gordons run a massive business empire, so of course they''re obsessed with having an heir. Imagine if you can''t have kids, even after marrying Walter. If you can''t deliver an heir, you''ll be forced out before you know it.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "But get this, if you have a medical check-up and show Trey the results, he might just be impressed by your determination to have kids and give Walter the thumbs-up to bring you into the family."


    Evangeline''s voice was cool and even, her heart still as a pond.


    Trey had sworn up and down that she was the only granddaughter-inw for him, but if she and Walter split, she knew the old man would bend over backward for his grandson''s sake.


    "So, what, I''m just a baby-making machine for the Gordons? Minnie zeroed in on the harsh reality, her face clouding over in an instant. "Cut the crap. Walter and I will sort out our own stuff. We don''t need you butting in!" Evangeline knew all too well how fast Minnie could flip her lid: One moment all was good, and a total 180-degree turn in the next.


    Of course, if Minnie was going to get real, Evangeline was not about to pull any punches either.


    "Actually, Minnie, shouldn''t I be the one saying that to you? How well Walter and I get along, whether I can have kids, and if the Gordons even need an heir-that''s none of your business. We''re not exactly friends, so do me a favor and..."


    Evangeline mimed zipping her lips. "Zip it, okay?"


    Evangeline had been ready to kick Minnie out, but she figured someone as sharp as Minnie would definitely catch the hint.


    Just as expected, Minnie''s face went pale with shock and anger. Clenching her teeth, she spat out, "Enjoy your little power trip while itsts. Once you and Walter officially sign those divorce papers, you won''t be


    strutting around anymore. Just you wait!"


    With that, Minnie stormed off, her heels clicking angrily against the floor. She did not even nce back.


    Evangeline, cool as ever, whipped out her phone and made a call.


    "I want eyes on Minnie, round the clock. Anything she does, I

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    Evangeline should have done this ages ago,


    Minnie was mysterious. Even if things did not pan out as Evangeline suspected, she clung to the hope that Minnie might lead her to her elusive stepmother, Lydia. When she got back to the private room, Evangeline was surprised to find the once-buzzing dinner had cleared out, leaving only Walter.


    He sat there, stone-faced, his eyes deep pools of nothingness. What was he thinking?


    She did not bother with niceties and just waved her hand in front of his face. "Walter? Where did everyone go? They just up and left without a word?"


    She thought of Alex and felt a twinge of regret.


    They had not seen each other in forever, and when they finally had the chance, they had not even exchanged a word,


    "How would I know? Maybe you should call them?" Walter snapped back.


    He was not trying to start a fight with Evangeline, really. It was just that the idea of her worrying about Alex, who had left without a word, got under his skin.


    "Okay, fine," said Evangeline, taking out her phone to make a call without a second thought.


    Before she could dial, a hand swooped down like an eagle snatching its prey, smacking her phone onto the table. "Evangeline, are you even listening to me?" Walter was steaming, and Evangeline could practically hear his teeth grinding. She knew he did not want her to call Alex, but she was pushing his buttons anyway. "I honestly didn''t get that," Evangeline retorted with a shrug, trying to sound as genuine as possible.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re like a riddle wrapped in an enigma. I can''t keep up with all your hints. I just figured, since Alex won''t be hanging out with us much anymore, it''d be rude not to say goodbye, right?"


    She had no idea that bringing up Alex would make Walter''s temper re even more.


    "So, you''re just dying to know why Alex left, aren''t you? he snapped.


    "Exactly!" Evangeline snatched her phone back from Walter''s clutches and tucked it safely into her bag.


    "Bravo, Evangeline, you''re just brilliant!" Walter''s thumbs-up was full-blown sarcasm. Her words might as well have been a confession of a secret romance with Alex.


    Thanks for the praise," she replied dryly, used to Walter''s odd jabs. "If we''re done here, I''ll head out, okay?"


    Habits died hard, and Evangeline had had enough of Walter. Her mind was on Yale and Roslyn, who were waiting for her at the vi, and she did not want to leave them in the lurch, worried. "Leaving?" Walter''s face had darkened to a stormy shade. "Evangeline, you''re not going anywhere!"


    The moment Alex was out the door, Evangeline was all set to bolt, her intentions clear as day.


    She was after Alex, was she not? Well, Walter was determined to throw a wrench in her ns.


    "Come on, dinner''s over, and you''re still holding me back. Don''t be silly." Evangeline tried to reason with him, keeping her cool.


    However, reasoning with Walter was like talking to a brick wall.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Leave? Evangeline, you''re stuck with me for life! You''re feeling sick, right? Well, I''m eager to see if all my hard work in bed has paid off. We''re heading to the hospital for a check-up now!" Walter''s voice brooked no argument, his decision final


    Evangeline was sure he had gone insane. "Walter, have you lost it? I''ve just got a slight stomach ache, no hospital trip needed!"

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    Chapter 329


    "Anyway." Evangeline nced at her watch. "It''s four o''clock. By the time we get there, the doctors will have clocked out. Who''s going to see me?"


    "Don''t you worry about that! Just bring yourself and that belly of yours along with me!"


    Walter did not wait for a reply. He grabbed Evangeline''s wrist, bundled her into the car, and even buckled


    her in.


    His caring gesture did not warm her heart in the slightest.


    Walter was trapping himself, and he knew it. With the car humming to life, he hit the hands-free button and dialed out.


    "I need a doctor who can do a pregnancy check, now."


    The voice that answered was a mix of charm and warmth, aged but caring, "Of course, Mr. Walter Gordon. When will you be here? I''ll make sure everything''s ready for you..."


    "Give me ten minutes,'' said Walter, checking the time.


    After he hung up, Evangeline bit her lip, at a loss for words.


    She was aware of the Gordon family''s clout in Avalon City-they could make things happen with a snap of their fingers. However, she had not expected Walter to wield his family''s influence like this.


    A pregnancy test was not urgent, and it could be done at any time. Why insist at this moment, after hours?


    "Walter, for thest time, I''m just feeling queasy, not pregnant. Can you let me go, please?"


    Evangeline was not as shameless as Walter was, and she had a far lower tolerance for embarrassment than Walter.


    "No way. Are you the doctor here? You say you''re not pregnant, but I''m convinced you are! Let''s do the math-it''s been over a month since we first got together. It''s a possibility, Isn''t it?" Evangeline was floored. He had kept track of every detail, even the dates of their intimacy.


    Truth be told, she was not sure about the pregnancy herself. They had not been careful, so it was a real possibility.


    However, what about Yale and the rest? If they noticed she was not at the vi, would they lose their minds?


    Evangeline paused, mulling over whether she should call Yale to fill him in on what was happening


    However, Walter, clueless about her n, jumped to conclusions when he saw her phone in hand. He figured she was about to let Alex know why she could not meet up with him.


    In a huff, Walter snatched the phone from her grip, saying with a mix of concern andmand, "You''ll get this back after your checkup, okay?"


    Evangeline shot him a look of irritation, but her eyes inadvertently drifted down to her still-t stomach, her mind racing with new thoughts. Could there actually be a tiny life starting in there? She felt nothing, though. How could she be pregnant? She had dreamed of having Walter''s baby, imagining a tiny versionContent provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    +28 BONUS


    of him growing inside her, bringing her so much joy.


    However, faced with the possibility that her dreams might being true, she was suddenly afraid. The unknown about the baby sent her into a panic.


    "Walter, what are we going to do if I''m really pregnant?" She had convinced herself she was ready to be a mom. Yet clearly, she was not as emotionally prepared as she thought, and she desperately needed to know how Walter felt about the baby.

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    "What to do? We''re going to have the baby, of course!" blurted Walter without hesitation. He had not been too keen on the idea of kids before. However, the thought of his child growing inside Evangeline filled him with a warmth he could not ignore. He even found himself eagerly anticipating the moment. Evangeline wondered if the baby might change things, if she might stop pining for Alex and start thinking about what was best for herself.


    "Evangeline, can you even imagine how long we''ve been waiting for this baby, and how hard I''ve worked for this? Just erase any thought of an abortion from your mind!"


    Evangeline''s lips quivered. Staring at Walter''s face, she was dying to ask him what exactly he had worked hard on. Nheless, her good upbringing sealed her lips, and she kept the question to herself.


    "It was just a question, no need to get worked up," she said calmly. "We don''t even know for sure if I''m pregnant yet. We haven''t done the tests, so it''s too early to jump to conclusions."


    They reached the hospital while they were talking.


    Blood tests, urine tests, an ultrasound. The top doctor at General Hospital walked Evangeline through all


    the tests.


    In the bathroom, Evangeline stared at the two lines on the pregnancy test in disbelief.


    Was she actually pregnant?


    As she left the hospital, she could not shake off a deep sense of unease.


    She found herself instinctively caressing her t belly, wondering if there was really a new life growing. inside.


    Walter tried to look focused on driving, but his thoughts were miles away.


    Evangeline was pregnant with a baby which symbolized the love between two people.


    People often said a baby could keep a woman from leaving.


    Cole had been desperate for a grandchild, and with his backing, maybe Evangeline might reconsider the divorce if Walter put in some extra effort.


    Evangeline and Walter were lost in their own thoughts. It made the long trek back to Crystal Waters House in an unusual silence that was oddlyforting


    vi.


    Stepping out of the car, Evangeline snatched her phone from Walter and headed straight into the vil


    Her phone screen was lit like a Christmas tree with missed calls and texts from Yale and Roslyn. Walter had forgotten to bring her phone to the hospital, and that was why she had not heard it ring. Her heart fluttered as she quickly called Yale back.


    Yale practically leaped at the phone when he saw Evangeline''s name sh on the screen,


    "Evie, where have you been? Why didn''t you call sooner? Roslyn and I were freaking out!" Yale''s voice was thick with worry.


    Evangeline could not help but smile a little.


    Maybe her unexpected vanishing act was a blessing in disguise for them.


    "I''m with Walter," she said into the phone.


    Yale''s voice came back, filled with shock.


    "Why are you with Walter? I thought you were....N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    He caught himself from adding ''avoiding him'', aware that Roslyn was listening, and choked back the rest of his question.


    "It''s a long story, I''ll fill you in when I get back home tomorrow."


    Evangeline ended the call, keeping the news of her pregnancy to herself.


    She believed that such joyful news deserved to be shared face-to-face.


    Following her usual routine, Evangeline took a rxing bath, slipped into her pajamas, and nestled into bed, feeling thefort of the familiar. Nheless, she knew tonight was the beginning of something new and different. She did not have to try so hard to get Walter''s attention for their kid''s sake anymore, and she definitely did not have to put up with his rough side.


    With this surprising news fresh in her mind, she just wanted to crash and get some solid sleep, then zip back to the Foster ce tomorrow to share the awesome news with Cole.

 Chapter 331

    Sadly, it was all just a daydream, something that just could not happen. Her so-called engagement to Walter was a sham, and their child was never going to have the whole family picture.


    Walter had only agreed to this baby-making business to put on a show for Cole. With the baby finally on the way, carrying the blood of both the Gordon and Foster ns, there were some serious talks that needed to happen, and fast. However, the first flutters of pregnancy had started hitting her. The second her head hit the pillow, sleepiness swamped her. She had to fight to not just fall asleep then and there. She was waiting for Walter to show. What she did not know was that Walter, out in the living room, was waiting on her too. They were both on standby for different reasons. She was waiting for him to walk through the door. He was waiting for her to invite him in. After remembering what the doctor had said and thinking about how he was feeling, Walter smartly took an icy shower and then, like a good boy, grabbed his nket and relocated to the guest room to catch some sleep Evangeline, in her room, caught themotion and thought Walter had finally decided toe in, but nope, he just spun on his heel and headed for the guest room.


    Determined to get what she wanted, Evangeline seized the moment right before he shut the door and bolted for him. "Walter, wait."


    Walter froze, not because he heard her, but because he was totally freaked out. His heart almost did a backflip when he saw Evangeline charging at him in her slippers. "Evangeline, there''s no need to rush. Remember what the doctor said? No heavy exercise for you right now. You ran too fast earlier, you''ve got to watch out for that from now on." "Got it."


    Evangeline could not help but notice for the first time just how much of a worrywart Walter had be..


    She had to admit, his caution was rather important.


    Back in the day, she was a lone wolf, doing whatever she pleased. Things were finally different with a baby on the way; she could not just live on a whim


    As they chatted, Evangeline had already reached Walter''s door. Without waiting for him to say anything, she barged right in.


    The room was eerily silent for a ce where a married couple was supposed to live.


    Walter was trying to breathe quietly, as if he might scare the little one nestled inside Evangeline.


    It was not really that serious, though.


    Since he had learned about the pregnancy, however, he had been acting all weird to the point where he was starting to annoy even himself. "Evangeline, it''s gettingte. You shouldn''t be up."


    Apart from eating right, a mom-to-be needed plenty of sleep to keep her spirits up.


    After a whole ordeal of check-ups and the drive back home, it was 10 p.m., which was ratherte for a pregnantdy.


    "I know, but I need to talk to you about something."


    Evangeline sat down on Walter''s bed and suddenly noticed he was keeping his distance on purpose. "Why are you all the way over there?" She was genuinely baffled.


    Walter was not usually like this. When it was just the two of them, he would be all over her, even if it was just to tease her about the baby.


    "I just don''t want to crowd you. Go ahead and speak your mind."


    Walter stood by the door, clutching his nket like a shield, showing no sign of wanting to step any closer.


    He knew all too well the maic pull Evangeline had on him. Just the sight of her kindled a subtle fire within him.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    In the past, he would not have held back his desires, but at this moment...


    With the doctor''s orders hanging over his head, he dared not act on impulse.

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    332


    His words hit Evangeline like a dagger to the heart.


    Nheless, the sting was dull. She had long epted that she never truly held a ce in Walter''s heart With their mission to have a childplete, it seemed only natural for him to want some distance. She reminded herself of the reason for her visit and chose not to squander her precious sleep over it.


    "Walter, remember the conversation we had about the parenting contract?"


    She had brought it up before, and Walter had stormed off, leaving her without a clear response. However, with their child growing inside her, the urgency of the parenting contract could not be ignored any longer. "What are you getting at?" Walter inquired.


    He remembered the terms of the parenting contract all too well. However, the fact that this was the first thing on her mind after getting pregnant made his heart sink.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Tm


    saying that now I''m pregnant, the parenting contract shoulde into effect immediately. I''ll print it out first thing tomorrow, and we can sign it..."


    For Evangeline, who always liked to keep things professional, it was important to get everything down on paper to make it official.


    "Evangeline, is this your way of cutting all ties with me?


    The parenting contract. After Evangeline''s pregnancy was confirmed, the baby would bepletely under the care of the Foster family. Meanwhile, Walter would get the Gordon family''s shares as a form of payment.


    "Evangeline, what do you take me for? Do you really think I''d trade my own child for the Gordon family''s wealth? Is that all I am to you?"


    Walter''s usations made Evangeline''s heart sink.


    She had not given it much thought before, but Walter''s words made her see things differently. She felt like she was being reduced to a mere baby-maker...


    By going through with this, she realized she had not considered Walter''s pride a member of the Gordon. family.


    "So what''s your n? Should we just forget about transferring the shares?"


    Would Walter, however, be okay with that?


    Not waiting for Walter to respond, Evangeline went on to exin, "I know you only agreed to have this baby with me because of my grandfather''s illness. I''m truly grateful for that. But we both know that a forced rtionship won''t make us happy. Our marriage has been nothing but a shell for a long time, and it wouldn''t be fair to trap us both in a lifetime of unhappiness just for my grandfather''s sake, would it?"


    Evangeline did her best to stay calm and talk things through with him.


    "The deal is a neat solution to our problem. You do your part in bed, and I''ll hand back your family''s shares. No need to overthink it; you were meant to have them anyway.


    OL


    "Mr. Trey Gordon gave those shares to his granddaughter-inw, and since we''re splitting up, it''s only right I don''t keep what''s yours. This way, we avoid any more drama, and you can feel like things are squared away.


    For Evangeline, Walter was an afterthought. She was determined to cut all ties with him and leave the past behind.


    Walter saw right through her. "Cut the act, Evangeline. You just don''t want me in your life anymore, do you?


    His heart pounded as he held his breath, waiting for her to confirm what he already knew. He was torturing himself, needing to hear her say it, even though he knew what wasing. Evangeline''s gaze cooled, her voice steady. "If that''s what you think."


    She did not attempt to sugarcoat it, but she held herself back f

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    Chapter 333


    The Foster and Gordon families were still intertwined in business, and Evangeline would have to face Walter sooner orter. A total war with Walter would help no one. However, with him pushing her, she was done with the les.


    "Bravo, Evangeline. You''re just fantastic," said Walter through clenched teeth, sarcastically giving her a thumbs-up.


    Evangeline had hoped that having a child might change everything between them, a wishful dream that felt so right.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''ve been trying to figure something out. Why are you in such a rush to cut me loose? Is it because of Alex?"


    He could not think of any other reason that would drive Evangeline to make such a choice.


    Were children not supposed to be everything to a mom? So why could Evangeline, with his baby on the way, hit him with words so cold?


    Evangeline sighed deeply, her voice tinged with resignation as she replied, "We''re on our way to a divorce. Why keep this up?"


    She could not fathom why Walter kept dragging Alex into their mess.


    Nheless, with no love lost between them, hashing out anything about Alex seemed pointless.


    If pretending Alex was the reason would get Walter to agree to the baby deal and keep their lives separate afterward, then so be it. It might even be for the best. "Alright, I get it."


    Walter''s face was a patchwork of pale shades, and his tall frame shook just a bit. He could not wrap his head around Evangeline''s blunt confession.


    Was she so done with pretenses when she was finally pregnant?


    Hiding his conflicting emotions, he lifted the nket higher, shielding his face.


    "Ms. Evangeline, anything else? If not, the door''s right there."


    Cradling the nket in one arm, Walter reached out with the other to swing open the guest room door.


    Evangeline had what she came for; there was no reason to stay a second longer.


    "From tomorrow on, I''ll be at the vi, taking care of myself and the baby. Please, don''t just show up out of the blue and bother me anymore." She rose to her feet slowly and, as she reached the door, she thoughtfully closed it behind her.


    y out o


    of


    With each Inch the door closed, Evangeline''s face was hidden bit by bit until it waspletely sight.


    Walter, cocooned in his nket, caught just a whisper, "Goodbye, Walter.


    Her voice was so soft, devoid of any detectable feeling like a still pond without a single ripple.


    Walter''s grip on the nket tightened, his heart a tumultuous sea.


    A single door divided him and Evangeline, cing them in entirely separate worlds. One goodbye stretched the space between them to its furthest extent.


    He never imagined that he and Evangeline could ever be this far apart. It was a bizarre sensation....


    She could be seen there, smiling and chatting away. Her voice was audible as she spoke. However, her emotions vastly differ from those typically experienced.


    A wave of loss washed over Walter, drowning him in its depths.


    He realized he was on the brink of losing Evangeline.


    This woman, who had coerced him into marriage, who sought to chain his happiness with the expectations of her parents, whom he should have seen as nothing but a nuisance, would bepletely out of his life.


    A

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    22


    Nol


    Evangeline was his wife, Walter''s wife, and she was pregnant with his child. How could he possibly let go?


    The nket dropped to the floor as Walter stood behind the door, his hands balled into fists, his stance resolute.


    However, his deep eyes betrayed a storm of bewilderment and uncertainty.


    In the CEO''s office of the Gordon Group building.


    "Seriously? This is the proposal you guys came up with? Did anyone even think this through?"


    The sound of a heavy hand mming down on the desk echoed as the young assistant bit back tears, her hard work just a mess in the eyes of the big boss. She practically sprinted out of the office. David had been lingering outside the president''s office, watching the assistant beat a hasty retreat. He felt a wave of pity for her and started counting on his fingers.


    What was the count for this day? One from HR, one from marketing... Including this one from nning, that made six, right?


    Mr. Walter was on a whole other level of cranky today


    Sure, he was known for his short fuse andck of patience, but he was more like a rampaging dragon at this moment, spewing fire without any rhyme or reason


    The assistant who had just dashed out had evene to David for advice beforehand, thanks to the cautionary tales of the five before her.


    David had actually checked out the proposal that Walter had just ripped apart. Sure, it had a few gaps, but the ideas were solid, and there were plenty of good points. It did not deserve the shredding it got. David sighed deeply, only to be jolted by the ring of his inte.


    Knowing who was on the other end, his eyes popped open, and he snatched up the receiver like it was a lifeline.


    "Get me a coffee, will you?"


    Back in his office, Walter massaged the pressure point between his brows, trying to ease the mental exhaustion that weighed on him.


    He could not figure out what was eating at him, this weird rage that kept bubbling up, making himsh out at his staff over every little thing.


    Meanwhile, Evangeline had used her pregnancy as an excuse to pack up and leave Crystal Waters House for good.


    Of course, this was a secret kept just between the two of them. No one from the Gordon or Foster families had a clue. They had to keep it that way, especially since Evangeline''s grandfather, Cole, was not in the best of health. The fewer people in the know, the less chance Cole would catch wind of what was


    really going on.


    Waster was stressed, and all he wanted was to dive headfirst into his work. Little did he know that by getting so wrapped up, he would spot his team cking off right away. Fueled by his sour mood, he decided it was time to whip them into shape. He was not about to let them think making money in the Gordon family was a walk in the park!


    Just then, his assistant David came into the office, a tray in hand. "Enjoy, Mr. President."


    David could tell Walter was in a funk, so he was treading on eggshells, careful not to set him off. Walter was about as pleasant as a dragon with heartburn...


    Walter''s face was a nk te, so David just ced the coffee cup down on the desk, not even sure if Walter wanted it. He quickly grabbed the tray, ready to bolt. However, out of the blue...Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "David, why are you so quick to leave?"


    That one line stopped David, his foot hanging in the air like he was frozen mid-step. He was unsure if he should put it down or not.


    David spun around, a nervous grin stered on his face, and said, "I''ve got a ton of work back at my desk, sir. If you don''t need anything else, I''ll just head back." Chapter 335

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    Chapter 335


    As if David would stick around Walter''s side at a time like this. What was he, looking for trouble? No way he wanted to end up like that other assistant, getting chewed out until he was a blubbering mess! "Wait a second."


    Walter''s eyebrows arched like the de of a sword, his piercing eyes locking onto David. "David, remind me, what''s your role again? I seem to have a bit of a memorypse." David eyed Walter warily.


    Could a bout of anger reduce cognitive abilities? No, definitely not. Thus, this loaded question from Walter had to have a hidden agenda.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    If he could not grasp the underlying message, all he could do was... give a straight answer.


    "I''m here to assist you with whatever you need, sir."


    "Good." His response was sharp and clear, no beating around the bush.


    Walter shot him an approving look, a rare smile ying at the corners of his usually stern lips.


    "Question answered. Can I get out of here now?'' thought David.


    He gazed at Walter hopefully while his inner self was practically on its knees, begging for an out.


    Unfortunately... It seemed Walter had just thought of something, his voice tinged with confusion, "I don''t recall giving you any tasks, so what exactly are you busy with back at your desk?" There it was.


    David felt as if he had been struck by an arrow straight to the heart.


    "Uh... I-I was just..."


    Before spilling the beans, David decided to test the waters. "Boss, do you want the truth or something more... ptable?"


    Walter''s eyes gleamed with mischief as he looked at David''s clearly troubled face. "What do you think?"


    That one question sent David''s survival instincts into overdrive.


    "Well, the more ptable version is, I was trying to get a jump on the workload, doing everything I can to lighten your load."


    "What about the other version?" Walter gave him a sidelong nce.


    "Look, we all know you''re not exactly happy today. Everyone''s walking on eggshells, scared they''ll mess up and make things worse. So they''ve beening to me first, hoping I''d give the docs a once-over and save us from another... well... David gestured toward the door. "Another meltdown like we just had."


    David felt a twinge of guilt when he thought about the girl who had been on the receiving end of Walter''s Temper. He had thought any boss with half a brain would notsh out at her like that.


    It seemed he was dead wrong. He could not exactly say Walter was cking off, but something big must


    have happened to distract Mr. Workaholic himself from his job.


    "So, about that n from earlier, you checked it out?" Walter zeroed in on what David was hinting at and cut to the chase. "Spill it. What do you think?"


    Ever since Walter took up that job as a guest professor at Avalon University, he would pick up this annoying habit of grilling people with questions. David, his shadow of an assistant, bore the brunt of it. David mulled it over and decided it was safer to keep his mouth shut. If Walter had a beef with the n, it had to have some ws. He was not about to

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    Chapter 336


    "That n was a fluke-I''ve never seen it," lied David through his teeth, hoping to dodge a bullet.


    Internally, he was praying like mad. "Dear God-anyone up there-send me an angel to fend off the boss'' wrath, will you?"


    As he braced himself to look Walter in the eye, the steady knock on the office door cut through the silence like a drumbeat. David''s eyes sparkled with hope.


    Could it be? Was there power in a silent wish?


    Walter, clearly miffed at the interruption, barked at the unseen visitor, "Enter!"


    As the door swung open, a pair of sleek ck high heels made quite the entrance, Minnie, the office bombshell, strutted in. Her cobalt blue suit hugged her figure perfectly, radiating a vibe that was anything but uptight. She was the epitome of cool and collected, David could not help but stare, dazzled.


    Minnie! She was like a gift from the universe-absolutely perfect!


    Before Walter could even get a word in, David jumped at the chance to escape. "Boss, Ms. Kast is here. She''s probably got something important for you, so I''ll just... Yeah, I''ll get out of your way," he stammered, beating a hasty retreat.


    Another figure darted from the office. This time, it was David, Walter''s right-hand man, making a break for


    1. it.


    In a ce where everyone was aware of each individual''s business, delivering papers to Walter was a job


    no neer would get. However, with Walter in full-on dragon mode, the secretaries were too chic


    to even try. That was where Minnie, the rookie, came in clutch.


    The moment Minnie stepped out, the secretarial squad swarmed the door, all eager to catch the next episode of the Minnie show.


    Gossip was the office''s favorite sport. As David bolted past the secretaries, he could feel their eyes on him, hungry for the next juicy bit. They were all in on the action he wished he could join, but did not dare


    1. to.


    While the secretaries waited with bated breath, the office beyond was eerily quiet as if the calm before a


    storm


    Minnie set the stack of papers she was delivering on Walter''s desk with a flourish, standing off to the side with poise. Her smile was as sweet as candy as she asked, "Mr. Walter Gordon, here are the documents you asked for. Everything look okay? If there''s anything off, I can fix it in a sh."


    In the secretarial pool, there was this unspoken dream everyone shared, and that was to be the one who could catch the eye of the big boss. Even a short-lived fling with the CEO was a prize worth chasing.


    Walter already got a ring on his finger, and the chances of anyone bing the next Mrs. Gordon are thinner than a lottery ticket. However, a brief moment in the spotlight with the man himself was the real Jackpot.


    Minnie had the brains and the looks, and she rocketed into the secretarial squad as an intern. EveryoneN?velDrama.Org content rights.


    was jealous of her, so they had her cooped up in the office, buried in busywork, far from the executive suite.


    However, this day was different. She got the call to bring papers right to Walter''s office.


    She was not blind to the jealous whispers, but Minnie did not care. Getting close to Walter was her golden ticket, and she would do whatever it took, especially now that he was this hard to approach. "Not bad. You secretaries always deliver. That''s one thin

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    Chapter


    337


    Since David''s departure, Walter had been a workhorse, barely looking up from his desk. He picked up a report, gave it a quick once-over, and nodded in approval. All the while, Minnie stood there, invisible to him.


    Everyone was working at lightning speed, not just to get their tasks done, but because it gave them a chance to rub elbows with the big boss during document drop-offs.


    "Thanks," said Minnie, her voice dripping with respect.


    She was the only one who could leave the CEO''s office without a lecture. Anyone else would be walking


    on air.


    However, Minnie, who had been waiting forever for a moment with Walter, could not be content with just a brief exchange.


    "Anything else you need? I can ry the message, save you the trouble of a call."


    Small talk was Minnie''s superpower. She was so bold because she was convinced Walter looked distant Just because he had not realized she was the one visiting.


    If he just nced up and saw her, she was sure he would invite her to stay for a real talk!


    "You''re thoughtful, aren''t you?"


    Walter choked back a smirk, looked up with a poker face, and feigned surprise. "It''s you? Ms. Kast, it''s been ages, hasn''t it?"


    His tone warmed up in a sh, His words tinged with a softness that was not quite there.


    Of course, it was all for show. Walter had recognized Minnie the second she walked in. He had been pretending to be swamped. He even avoided her gaze because he just was not in the mood to entertain this walking headache. "Yeah, it feels like forever," said Minnie, her smile fixed in ce, ying along with Walter''s script.


    "Weren''t you just an intern thest time I signed off on something? And now you''re in the secretarial pool already?"


    Walter''s words carried a weight that hinted at more than just surprise at her quick rise.


    Doubts crept into his mind about possible corruption within his ownpany. How else could Minnie, a rookie,nd such a key role as his secretary?


    Minnie fidgeted with her hair as she blushed. "Yeah. Honestly, I was shocked at how fast I moved up. When they told me to head to the secretarial department, I couldn''t believe my ears!"


    "If the department head puts you forward, you must be pretty special..."


    Walter stood up and strolled over to Minnie, his arm casually brushing against hers in a moment that seemed both idental and charged.


    "I''m really curious... Ms. Kast, about how good you are at your job."


    His words hung in the air, tinged with a flirtatious undertone that was impossible to ignore.


    25 BONUS


    Minnie, already smitten with Walter, turned beet red. "I''ve just started, and you already think so highly of me. I''m thrilled!"


    Her words were those of a workce newbie, but her eyes told a different story, shimmering with unspoken promises and allure. "I''ll do my very best."Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Her gaze was filled with a vulnerable kind of appeal, making even her most solemn vows seem enticing.

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    "Hard work matters, but choosing the right thing to work hard on. That''s what''s really important."


    Walter towered over Minnie, their height difference adding to his allure.


    He looked down at her with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, capturing the moment with an intensity that was hard to look away from.


    Life could be so unfair. Some people would spend their whole lives searching for that perfect someone and would never find them. For a lucky few, just one look was all it took to fall head over heels Walter was definitely one of the lucky ones.


    His drop-dead gorgeous looks had Minnie head over heels, and she could practically feel the maic pull of his charm.


    "M-Mr. Walter Gordon." Her words tripped over themselves, her heart racing like it had never raced


    before.


    Walter usually yed it cool with her, only giving her the time of day when she practically threw herself at him. Even then, his replies were short and formal, keeping her at arm''s length. On this day, strangely, he seemed like a different person.....


    Minnie held her hand to her chest, barely containing her excitement. Had he finally seen how much she cared?


    What if he found out she was actually Julia, the girl he had been crushing on for ages? Would that blow


    his mind?


    Then, in a sh...


    "Ms. Kast, is there something else you need?" Walter''s gaze snapped back to his usual, unapproachable


    CEO self.


    The change was so quick that Minnie wondered if she had been imagining things. Still, she was sure of it Walter had been flirting with her!


    He must have remembered they were at the office and that flirting here was not the best idea. That had


    to be it!


    With a newfound resolve, Minnie realized she had aplished what she hade for. It was time to make a graceful exit. "No, that''s about it. I''ll head back to my desk."


    Her face lit up with a dazzling smile, and with a slight nod, she gracefully exited the office. However, Minnie did not head back to the secretarial pool. Instead, she veered off at the corner, slipping into the restroom.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Backed against the stall door, she took out her phone and made a call.


    "You know you''re ying with fire, calling me now, right?" The voice on the line was scratchy, altered by some kind of voice encryption. Still, the annoyance was unmistakable.


    Minnie, however, was used to this kind of reception and did not let it faze her. "I just had to share the


    +26 BONUS


    news with you first!"


    The person on the other end let out a weary sigh. "Alright, spill it. What''s the big news?"


    Minnie was practically bouncing with glee, but she muffled her squeal, remembering she was in a public ce. "Guess what? Walter actually flirted with me today! Can you believe it? He''s never given me the time of day, and then-bam! Out of the blue!" The voice came back, icy and sharp, "When things seem off, they usually are. Be careful."


    Minnie shrugged it off. "I know, I know. That''s why I''m checking in with you.


    "What am I, a walking encyclopedia? You alwayse to me with your problems." The voice was teasing, but Minnie''s reply was dead serious. "You always have the answers, no matter how tough the question. So,e on, spill it. Is there trouble for Walter and Evangeline?"

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    There was a brief pause on the line, then the answer came. "No trouble. They just aren''t a thing anymore. "They aren''t a thing anymore..."


    By the time it sank in for Minnie, all she heard was the dial tone echoing in her ear.


    Evangeline''s ties with Walter were history. Was it not her time to shine?


    At the Emerald of the Hignds vi, Evangeline lounged on the couch, her ears twitching


    She rubbed her achy, puffy nose and grumbled, "I bet someone''s bad-mouthing me. It''s not Walter, is it?"


    His name popped out before she could stop it, giving her a jolt as it echoed in her ears.


    Had she not sworn off anything to do with Walter? Why was his name still on the tip of her tongue?


    ''Get it together, Evangeline,'' she chided herself.


    With her thoughts a jumbled mess, she could not focus on the magazine anymore. She tossed it aside. and munched on the fruit Julieta had sliced up. Keeping stress-free and rested was key during pregnancy.


    That was why Evangeline had smartly hired a nurse to look after her, making sure she ate right and livedfortably.


    Julieta Lewis, a spry woman in her fifties with three kids under her belt, knew all about taking care of expectant moms.


    Evangeline trusted her, always addressing her with a respectful ''Mrs. Lewis"


    Just then, the doorbell chimed.


    Julieta scurried to answer it and found a man in a wheelchair outside, greeting him with a smile. "Sir, who might you be looking for?"


    Alex returned the smile, casually spinning the wheel of his chair, and said with confidence, "I''m a friend of Evangeline''s."


    Julieta''s eyes lit up with recognition. "You''re Mr. Alex Gordon, aren''t you? Thedy said that you cane In when you arrive."


    She noticed Alex pushing his wheelchair, looking a bit awkward, and quickly wiped her hands on her


    apron..


    "Hey there, need a hand?"


    Alex shook his head with a smile. "I''m good, thanks."


    With that, Alex rolled in. Julieta followed respectfully. She did not forget to call out to Evangeline, who was lounging on a deck chair, basking in the sun and snacking on fruit, "Miss, Mr. Alex Gordon''s here!" Evangeline leaped up, slid into her slippers, and made a beeline for the stairs!


    She was so quick she almost bumped into Alex.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    He chuckled. "Easy there! You''re going to be a mom soon. You have to be careful, or what if you bump and hurt the little one?"


    Evangeline''s face turned red with a dyed realization, and she gave an embarrassed giggle. "I just got so excited seeing you! I forgot I can''t zip around like I used to."


    Alex,fortably in his chair, did not bother with formalities, and Evangeline flopped onto the couch.


    "Alex, aren''t you supposed to be in ss? How''d you get here so fast?"


    She was sure it was Tuesday.


    A shadow flickered in Alex''s eyes, but he masked it with a yful tone, "Guess what? No sses for me today."


    He did have sses all day, but the moment he got Evangeline''s message, he could not think of anything else and decided to skip. It helped that he was well-regarded at school, so the head gave him the day off without trouble. "I guess I''m just super lucky!" Evangeline smiled yfully.

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    Pregnancy was turning out to be boring.


    However, what really got to Evangeline was how her rtionship with Walter had gone down the drain. With her emotions already on a roller coaster because of the baby, she felt more down in the dumps thanText content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ever.


    She needed to vent, and who better to turn to than Alex? Of course, she did not expect him to show up so fast.


    "Evie, are you and Walter seriously done for good?"


    Alex had seen the storm clouds on their marital horizon for ages and had braced himself for their split. However, it was actually happening, and it felt strange to him in many ways. "Obviously. What other choice is there?"


    While munching on a slice of juicy melon Julieta had cut up, Evangeline did not miss a beat and offered a piece to Alex. "Wow, this melon''s super sweet. Here, have a taste." Evangeline had not used her own fork but had grabbed a clean one to give him the fruit. That little move of hers made his chest tighten.


    If Walter were here instead of him, would she still act so distant? He wondered about that.


    Taking the fruit from her, he did not let her sidestep the conversation. His dark eyes bore into hers with an intensity that took her aback.


    Evangeline quickly realized that Alex was not his usual''self. "What''s up? You were all for me dumping Walter, right? Why the long face now?"


    Sometimes, she puzzled over it herself. How could she tell two guys with the exact same face apart so easily?


    Evangeline was probably worrying too much. Even if she wanted to see Alex in the same light as Walter, chances are he would not be on board with that idea.


    Mulling over this, she let out a deep sigh. Honestly, even if Alex was game, it was something she just could not bring herself to do.


    If it were that simple, she would have married Alex in the first ce instead of going through all the drama with Walter''s reluctance to tie the knot.


    "We backed your split because you guys didn''t have kids. Evie, you''ve got Walter''s baby on the way now, you''re a mom-to-be. You have to think about the big picture."


    "What ''big picture? is there any doubt the Fosters can''t provide for a child?"


    Evangeline and Alex had never had a real fight before, but this time, she was genuinely upset. She had called Alex over, hoping for a bit offort as she prepared to close the chapter on her first love.


    She had not anticipated it turning into this kind of confrontation.


    "Sure, the Fosters can take care of your kid, even spoil them rotten, but did you ever stop to think that a


    +25 BOHIUS


    kid''s only got one mom and one dad? Those are shoes nobody else can fill. If she''s missing that person in her life, it''s like there''s a piece that''s gone for good."


    Evangeline was ready to argue, but when she caught sight of Alex''s tear-filled eyes, her words died in her throat. She inhaled sharply, trying to look away and cool off, but her gaze inadvertently fell on his wrist. There it was a gleaming Rolex, all gold and precision, ticking


    away.


    -


    Back when Evangeline and Alex were violin apprentices, sweating it out in practice sessions, Evangeline had made her way in the world and decided to celebrate by getting Alex a present with her first big paycheck.


    Gifts were handed out to everyone, but Alex''s was special-a sleek new watch.


    "You''ve hung onto this old thing all these years..." Evangeline could not help but notice, a hint of nostalgia in her voice.


    That was the thing about Alex. He clung to memories like a lifeline, that old wat

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    "Yeah, it bes a part of me somehow. Never felt the need to switch it out," Alex replied, trying to sound casual.


    However, Evangeline''s mind wandered to a different time, a time of endless scales and arpeggios under their teacher''s watchful eye. It was during one of those intense practice sessions that she first spotted the watch on Alex''s wrist.


    Alex, the Gordon family''s second son, always wore this surprisingly modest timepiece. The face was no bigger than a quail egg. its surface bare except for the maker''s mark. It had no bling, no ir, nothing that could be expected from a guy of his stature. Nheless, he never took it off, not even when the strap dug into his skin, not even when the paint started to chip away. The same answer he gave her a few seconds ago was the same answer he had given her back then.


    That was why, when it came time to pick out his gift, Evangeline knew it had to be a watch. She felt a warmth flood through her-she knew Alex always had her back.


    His words, his stories, were like someone bravely reopening old wounds, all to help her learn and grow.Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Alex, I know you''re just looking out for me. But Walter and I... we just can''t make it work anymore," said Evangeline with a sense of defeat, acknowledging the harsh reality.


    Before she had tied the knot, Evangeline had thought she would give it a shot, even if she suspected their rtionship might be like trying to enjoy an unripe fruit-forced and ultimately unsatisfying.


    After giving it her all, she epted that some things just could not be sweetened by sheer will. She did not want to spend her life choking down the bitterness.


    She pulled back her gaze, hiding away the pain and struggle that flickered in her eyes.


    Then, out of the blue....


    "Evie, look at me." Alex''s voice cut through her thoughts, demanding her attention.


    As their eyes locked, Evangeline heard the question that Alex threw at her.


    "Tell me, do you still have feelings for Walter? Is your heart empty, or is his shadow still lingering there?"


    His voice was more intense than she had ever heard, the questioning tone sending her pulse racing.


    She had never let herself think about these things. The sheer chaos of their rtionship was reason enough for a divorce, what she felt inside seemed irrelevant at this point. She wanted to open up to Alex, but he quickly cut in..


    "Divorce is always an option, but if Walter still has a ce in your heart and you go through with it, I''m scared you''ll end up with regrets...


    Evangeline was speechless.


    Confronted with Alex''s earnest concern, she could not dodge the question she had been running from all along.


    "I think... I really need to think this through," she admitted.


    If she did not care for Walter, why did she go through the motions of starting a family with him? unease during her pregnancy?


    him? Why th


    the


    Deep down, Evangeline knew the answer. She just had not been ready to face it... until this moment.


    Without anyone noticing, Alex had slipped away at some point.


    Snapping back to reality from her daydreams, Evangeline realized it was already dinner time.


    Julieta had made Evangeline''s favorite dishes and set them out on the table with care.


    Evangeline eyed the enticing spread and forked a hopeful bite into her mouth, only to find it tasteless. This showed that when feeling low or dejected, even the most delicious food could seem vorless. Right then, her phone buzzed-it was Yale calling.


    "Evie, a week is up."


    A

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    A week''s time...


    Had Yale not reminded her, the whole thing might have slipped Evangeline''s mind.


    Between grappling with the news of her pregnancy and drawing a line with Walter, her mind was a whirlwind of worry. She dreaded the thought of her uncles and grandpa making a big fuss over her news. Thus, she gave herself a week to get her head straight before letting them in on her little secret.


    "Isn''t today just day seven? Why the hurry?"


    She had to count it out on her fingers to be sure Yale had not pulled a fast one on her.


    "Evie, you have to talk to us sooner orter. Does one more day make a difference?"


    That was Holden on the other end of the line, chiming in.


    Evangeline did not hesitate with her answer. "Yes, it does! Tomorrow, I''m visiting Grandpa. Let''s meet at the Foster family''s old ce."


    Evangeline had no clue that her offhandment had sent her uncles into a frenzy of excitement.


    "Did Evie get back to us?"


    *Is she finally going to say something about being pregnant?"


    "Awesome! The Foster n''s going to have a new member!"


    The uncles were grinning ear to ear, eagerly anticipating the moment they would get to see Evangeline.


    The Fosters had a small army of bodyguards watching over Evangeline. Walter''s sneaky moves did not stand a chance against the family''s watchful eyes.


    They had figured out Evangeline was secret when she called to ask for a week off, yet they yed along. Not wanting to bruise her pride, they agreed to give her time alone. Worried about Evangeline being on her own, Holden had even hired Julieta to sneak into her life. Once he saw they hit it off, he could finally breathe easy.


    Aemon piped up, "Should we give Dad a heads-up so he can start celebrating early?"


    The room buzzed with opinions,Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    James, the baby of the five brothers and awyer, weighed in with his usual caution. "Maybe we shouldn''t. If Evie changes her mind, we''d be setting Dad up for a letdown. "Anyway, it''s Evie''s big news to share, not ours to spill," the uncles agreed, all smiles and good cheer.


    Meanwhile, Evangeline was in a bind. She had to drop by the family manor to visit her ailing granddad and break the news of her pregnancy.


    That meant she had to bring Walter along, and they had to put on a show of being madly in love to convince Grandpa that their rtionship was rock solid, not just a rush job because of his illness The whole situation was a major headache.


    Evangeline massaged her temples, feeling overwhelmed.


    Julieta noticed her pushing her food around the te and immediately grew concerned. "Miss, is there something wrong with the meal? Should I whip up something else?"


    "No, no, the food''s great. I''ve just got a lot on my mind, that''s all," Evangeline quickly reassured her.


    She felt bad for making Julieta worry. It was her own problem, after all.


    "Can I do anything to help? If you''ve got something on your chest, I''m here to listen," Julieta offered, her smile warm and motherly.

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    It had been ages since Evangeline had felt this kind of warmth.


    In an instant, she was reminded of her mother, who had left the world too soon.


    She could not help but wonder if Julieta was heaven-sent, a way to fill the vold her mother''s absence had


    left.


    Julieta, sensing the prolonged silence, worried she might have crossed a line and quickly added, "If it''s too much, you don''t have to talk about it..."


    "It''s not that. I''m just trying to figure out how to put it into words," said Evangeline, searching for the right way to express her tangled thoughts.


    Julieta had no idea about Evangeline''s situation with Walter. Honestly, she did not feel like going the hassle of exining theirplicated history. It was downright confusing.


    Then, like a lightbulb flicking on, Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with an idea.


    "Mrs. Lewis... Let''s say you''ve got this friend, right? And you''ve told them you''re done, you want to keep your distance. But now, you''re in a jam and need to ask for their help. How would you break the ice?"


    Julieta looked a little lost at the question.


    Evangeline slumped, feeling defeated.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    She admitted her thoughts were slightly jumbled, but she was doing her best. Ever since she got pregnant, It felt like her brain was on a constant loop of ''eat, nap, repeat''. It was turning to mush. Even the easy stuff was getting hard to figure out. "Er, if you''re stumped too, I''ll just... keep thinking," she mumbled.


    "Miss, I might not get all thatplicated stuff you''re talking about, but I think when you need a favor, juste out with it. Why beat yourself up? Everyone needs a hand sometimes, right? We can''t expect. help for nothing, but we could trade something for it!" It was like Julieta had just snapped Evangeline out of a trance.


    Evangeline''s eyes shone with rity. "That''s genius!"


    She did not skimp on the praise, shooting Julieta an enthusiastic thumbs-up.


    "Mrs. Lewis, you''re amazing. You''ve cracked a super tough nut for me! Thanks a bunch!"


    Julieta just chuckled warmly, then gently nudged her. "You''re wee, Miss, but now that we''ve got that sorted, isn''t it time for lunch?"


    "Totally!"


    With the food back in her mouth, Evangeline realized how hungry she was.


    The delicious smells had her fingers twitching excitedly, and she dug in enthusiastically.


    After dinner, Evangeline finished her nightly routine andid on her big bed, feeling very at ease.


    She nced at her phone-it was eight o''clock.


    Walter was probably just off work but not asleep yet, she figured.


    With th


    that thought, she dialed his number.


    In the Gordon Group''s president''s office, Walter was busy tweaking a project n that David had already given the thumbs up.


    When Evangeline''s call popped up, Walter''s gut reaction was not to pick up. Instead, he felt so swamped with work that his eyes were going cross-eyed.


    It was not until the ringtone echoed a second time that he snapped back to reality and realized Evangeline was actually trying to reach him. "Hello?"


    That one word was simple, but it was heavy with a whirlwind of emotions.


    Walter held back, saying only that much because he knew any more might betray how much he missed


    her.


    He longed for Evangeline-for the fiery nights they shared, for her yful teasing, hermanding presence, her moments of softness...


    "Sorry to bug you at this hour," Evangeline started, always the polite one, before cutting to the chase.


    "I''m nning to visit my grandpa at the Foster family estate tomorrow. I want to share the news with him -that I''m expecting."


    A

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    Evangeline paused, finding it hard to continue, but she pushed on.


    "You''re aware of how my grandpa''s health is. I think it''s best if we''re both there for this. So... would youe with me tomorrow?"


    Evangeline really did not have to ask like this.


    She could not help but feel that every struggle was worth it when she pictured her sick grandfather''s face lighting up at the news of her baby''s arrival.


    106


    "Sure, when should I swing by to get you?" Walter offered without hesitation.


    His eagerness caught Evangeline off guard. "You didn''t even think it over?"


    She had wrestled with how to broach the subject with him, to the point where she lost her appetite.


    "There''s nothing to think about. It''s been ages since I''ve seen him. Paying him a visit is the least I can do," said Walter with a firmness that left no room for argument. Nheless, his words carried a hidden weight that only he seemed to grasp.


    "You do realize this isn''t just a simple family visit. To convince Grandpa.... we''ll have to... act like a couple


    In love."This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    The thought of feigning intimacy, especially after she had just set boundaries with others, tied Evangeline''s tongue in knots.


    However, Walter, oddly perceptive, reassured her, "I get it. Don''t worry about me. Just make sure you ''don''te off too rigid, or Grandpa might catch on."


    "As if I would!" Evangeline was more concerned about her grandfather''s health than anyone. She would not dream of doing anything to jeopardize it.


    Evangeline needed Walter''s help, and if she wanted to keep their distance, she had to sort out what he would get in return.


    "Walter, what''s in it for you? You''re dropping your work to help me put on this act. I''d feel bad if you didn''t get something out of it."


    A shadow passed over Walter''s eyes.


    He understood her all too well, and that understanding was exactly what pained him the most.


    Evangeline, what do you think is a fair price to pay me for a day''s worth of acting?" Gordon Group raked in profits by the millions every second, and here Evangeline was, asking for a whole day of someone''s time.


    "You set the price, but don''t go overboard-I can''t break the bank." Evangeline''s head was all foggy, and thest thing she wanted was to haggle with Walter.


    Feeling her annoyance, Walter backed off. "Alright, let''s just call it off. Think of it as a favor, like I''m doing a solid for my granddad."


    "No way," Evangeline shot back without hesitation, "I don''t want to be in your debt." Their past was a


    tangle of emotions. If she got mixed up with him again, who knew when she would be able to truly move on from Walter? "And the Foster family doesn''t want to owe the Gordon family anything either. Walter, anything but the kid is up for grabs." She would do anything to draw a clear line between them.


    "Fine, then how about I take the kid''s mom? Is that fair game?"


    In a sh, Evangeline caught Walter''s reply. "Excuse me? What did you just say?" She must have


    misheard. Walter wanted the kid''s mom, so did that mean he wanted... her?


    Stunned, Evangeline pointed at herself. After a quick second thought, she was convinced she had gotten


    it wrong. "Never mind," she blurted, the words escaping before she could catch them.


    Even Walter, usually soposed, seemed thrown o

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    How could he be so clueless?


    Evangeline''s heart belonged to Alex, yet Walter poured out his feelings to her like she would actually care. Walter was just humiliating himself at this point, was he not?


    "Eight in the morning, I''ll swing by the vi to get you. That''s it for now, I need to sleep."


    Walter''s frosty words were a sharp reminder that she had interrupted his rest. Evangeline quickly agreed and hung up, her heart heavy.


    The phoney silent, but Evangeline''s heart was anything but. Walter''s words haunted her in echoes, confirming she had not misheard.


    Her heart unexpectedly missed a beat, and a wave of disappointment and loss washed over her. Walter clearly did not want her; his words were only for the sake of the baby.


    With a reason for everything, Evangeline fought through her heartache and finally drifted off to a restless sleep.


    After a night of tossing and turning, Evangeline dabbed on just enough makeup to look alive. She was careful to use only pregnancy-safe products, nothing that could harm the little one growing inside her.


    Julieta, the ever-reliable nanny, had breakfast ready, perfectlyid out on the table.


    Evangeline took a quick bite, dabbed at her mouth, and said, "Mrs. Lewis, I''m heading over to my grandpa''s today, and I''m not sure when I''ll be back. Once I''m out, you can clean up and start your holiday. I''ll get in touch when I''m back, and don''t worry, your pay will keeping. I''ll be needing your help with the babyter, so take this chance to get some rest, okay?"


    Julieta''s eyes shone with gratitude. "Thank you so much, Miss. I''m just a nanny, so you really don''t have to be so formal with me."


    Evangeline gave a gentle shake of her head. "I''ve noticed all the hard work you put in, and that''s why I treat you with the same respect."


    The Foster family lived by a simple rule: ''If you hire someone, you trust them.''


    Evangeline had chosen Julieta to look after her meals and daily routines, so she felt obliged to treat her with kindness.


    By the time Walter arrived to pick up Evangeline, Julieta had taken her leave.


    Evangeline, with her purse in hand, climbed into the car without saying another word.


    The ride was quiet, with neither of them speaking.


    Walter, while keeping an eye on the road, stole nces at Evangeline and noticed that her makeup did a good job of covering her pale face, which would keep Cole from worrying.


    He was well aware of Evangeline''s tender and thoughtful nature.


    Sadly, he thought, that tenderness and thoughtfulness would never be meant for him.


    Being in the early stages of pregnancy, Evangeline was prone to drowsiness and soon dozed off in the car.


    25 BONUS


    Half-asleep, she heard a stomach growling. Was she hungry?


    nto After patting her belly a few times and confirming it was not her, she turned her attention to Walter


    "Walter? Did you skip breakfast?"


    "It''s no big deal," he replied, though his voice betrayed his true feelings.


    Walter had pulled an all-nighter, tweaking the proposal for this day''s holiday, and then he was up at the crack of dawn to pick up Evangeline. With all that rushing around, breakfast was thest thing on his mind. Right when his stomach was hitting the high notes, a whiff of food tantalizingly tickled his nose.


    What in the world smelled so good?Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    It just made him hungrier!

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    Trying to ignore his rumbling stomach, Walter suddenly spotted a him, and behind it, Evangeline''s resigned expression.


    outhwatering sandwich in front of


    "Mrs. Lewis packed these, worrying I''d get peckish on the road. Have one to hold you over."Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    It was not that Evangeline was worried about Walter, in essence. She just felt bad for the guy-he was only this famished because of her.


    Walter shook his head. "No, you keep it."


    Evangeline was expecting, and if her nanny had thought to pack snacks, it meant she probably needed to Meat frequently.


    He did not want to scarf down the sandwich and leave her hungryter.


    Walter did his best to keep his cravings in check, eyes glued to the windshield, watching the road. He even toned down his breathing to avoid being seduced by the scent. Evangeline knew he would not just take her word for it, so she pushed the sandwich into his hand.


    "Go on, eat. Mrs. Lewis made plenty, and we won''t miss one. We''ve got a bit before we''ll get to eat at Grandpa''s. You can''t perform your best on an empty stomach."


    The Foster elders had been tipped off about Evangeline''s return and had gathered at the entrance early, eagerly awaiting her arrival.


    To everyone''s surprise, the car pulling up was not just any car-it was Walter''s. Holden''s face flushed with anger in an instant, but Yale, ever the peacemaker, understood why Evangeline had done what she did. He soothed his younger brother and swung the door wide open to greet Walter, their nephew by marriage.


    Cole had been resting up at the family ce since his close call. His spirits were high, but his body had not quite caught up. A major surgery was prone to have that effect when a few years have passed. The Fosters had spared no expense, bringing in a round-the-clock nutritionist just to keep him steady.


    As Evangeline and Walter strolled in, linked at the elbow, Cole was lounging on the couch, savoring the soup whipped up by the nutritionist.


    "Grandpa, what''s that you''re having? It smells amazing!" said Evangeline, leaning in with a grin.


    Cole''s face lit up when he spotted his granddaughter. Nothing like a bit of good news to perk someone up. His cheeks turned a healthy shade of pink.


    "Oh, it''s this soup your uncles are so keen on me having," he grumbled, but the twinkle in his eye and the smile on his face told a different story. He waved a servant over.


    "Fetch a bowl for the miss, will you? Let her have a taste!"


    The servant dashed off, and Evangeline did not wait, grabbing the bowl as soon as it was in reach.


    "Grandpa, you''ve got it all wrong. The guys hiring a nutritionist for you is just their way of showing they care. If they left you to fend for yourself, you''d be the first to say all those years raising them were for nothing!"


    She spooned up some oatmeal and brought it to Cole''s lips, her voice yful and teasing.


    The Foster brothers, all five of them, werete to the scene, but just in time to catch Evangeline''s loving


    jab.


    Yale caught on to Cole''s vibe in a sh and jumped right into the conversation,


    "Evie always knows what''s up. Now that you''re here, you''ve got to help us talk some sense into Grandpa. He''s gotta start taking the nutritionist''s advice seriously!"


    "Grandpa''s being stubborn?" Evangeline shot Yale a doubtful look before her eyesnded on Cole.


    Usually, Cole would stand his ground and go head-to-head with Yale. This time, he just turned his head away, dodging Evangeline''s look.


    That one little move told Evangeline everything she needed to know.


    "Ahem!" She cleared her throat to grab Cole''s attention with a question, "Grandpa, do you know why I came by today?"


    "You came just to check on me, right?" Cole''s response was nonchnt, but as his eyes wandered, they fell on Walter, who stood quietly to the side.


    Chupter 31)

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    347


    Had Evangeline and Walter patched things up and hade to give him the news?


    Cole''s eyes lingered on Walter''s cheerful face. The more he thought about it, the more convinced he became that his hunch was right. "I''ve actually got some great news for you today!"


    "What''s the great news?" Cole asked, already forming his own theory. "Did you and Walter patch things up and decide to stay together?" Their rtionship had always been a sore spot for him


    Walter was not rted to the Foster family, so Cole did not worry about him as much. However, Evangeline was different. She was his only granddaughter. If she was not happy, he felt like he would never be able to rest easy, not even in his grave. Evangeline could not believe it. Despite Walter''s heart-to-heart with Grandpa Cole, the old man still clung to the crazy idea that she and Walter were on the brink of divorce. Clearly, Walter''s attempt at reassurance had fallen t,


    However, finger-pointing could wait. She needed to squash this thought before it took root. If Cole kept fretting over their marriage, how could he focus on getting better?


    "Grandpa, you''re talking crazy! Walter and I are doing well, and you can''t let these wild thoughts mess with your health! If you don''t get better because of this and miss out on meeting your precious great-grandchild, that''s on you, not me!" While she spoke, Evangeline gave her eyes an exaggerated roll, a yful warning in her gaze.


    At that moment, the Foster brothers were a bundle of nerves and excitement.


    Finally, the conversation had turned to the baby-a piece of fantastic news that would surely lift Cole''s spirits. A happy heart often meant a healthier body!


    "You don''t have to sugarcoat it for me." Cole''s voice cut through suddenly. "My precious great-grandchild isn''t even on the way yet. What''s the use of getting better now?"


    His mood plummeted at the thought.


    If the baby''s parents were at odds, what kind of happiness could await the little one?


    Truth be told, Cole''s wish for a grandchild was second only to his hope that Evangeline and Walter would find true happiness together.


    "You know, Grandpa, if this was any day before today, I wouldn''t dream of arguing with you. But things have changed."


    Evangeline''s words were heavy with implication. As she looked up, her eyes locked with her grandfather''s, wide with surprise. "Why?"


    Cole''s hand suddenly gripped a medical report, the number of W the baby had been growing spelled


    12


    out in ck and white.


    For a few heartbeats, Cole was frozen, his eyes finally finding Evangeline''s. "Evie, you''re... you''re having a baby?"


    "Yeah." Evangeline gave her still-t tummy a gentle pat. "Your great-grandchild is right here. And if you don''t start taking the nutritionist''s advice seriously, you won''t be able to help me look after him!"


    "I''ll listen, I promise I''ll listen!" Cole''s grin was infectious, his eyes twinkling with joy.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    At his words, the Foster family erupted intoughter. Holden came over in a rush, giving Cole a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Look at that! A son''s words fall on deaf ears, but a granddaughter''s whisper, and he''s all ears. Evie, you''ve got to visit your grandpa more, keep an eye on him, and make sure he''s staying healthy. He''s all yours now!"

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    Chapter 348


    "Oh,e on! Grandpa is not out of his mind. He knows how to look after himself. Right, Grandpa?" Evangeline teased, casting a yful nce at her grandfather.


    Cole quickly replied, "You bet. For my great-grandchild 1 do whatever it takes to stay healthy."


    Laughter filled the room once more, the family''s happiness was infectious


    Amid theughter, Evangeline took a moment to really look at her grandfather. He used to have streaks of ck in his hair, but after his illness, it was all silver, making him seem so much older.


    Before she walked in, her uncles had whispered concerns about Grandpa''s sharpness slipping. She had not believed them then. However, after just a few words with him, the yful, childlike glint in his eyes told her everything she needed to know.. Cole was getting on in years, and the time for stubbornness had passed.


    Joyous moments always seemed to pass quickly. The Foster family was having a st, and like they had all nned it, each person showed off their special talents to cheer up Cole. Before they knew it. the evening had arrived.


    One by one, the uncles wrapped up their fun, each heading off to take care of their own business, leaving Evangeline watching her vibrant grandfather with a bittersweet feeling in her heart. She did not want to leave him, but Walter had his work waiting.


    To prove to Cole just how much she and Walter were the real deal, she had to y her part and head back


    with him.


    However, just as Grandpa was waving thest uncle goodbye, he turned that gentle look onto Evangeline.


    "Evie, you and Walter hang back for a second. I''ve got something to ask you."


    With the uncles gone, Walter was all ears for Evangeline. At the mention of his name, he was right there by her side.


    They sat together by Cole''s bedside, a striking pair, both so good-looking and capable that they seemed like a match made in heaven.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Cole watched them, his mind wandering through memories. He never wanted to interfere in his grandkids'' love lives, so he was not about to push Walter to make any grand derations.


    However, with his health failing, he could not rest easy without seeing his darling granddaughter find her happiness.


    With that thought, Cole''s face took on a look of deep seriousness.


    "Evie, Walter, now that you''ve got a kid, there are some things I''ve just got to say.


    "Bing a parent is like embarking on a journey of growth. Once the baby arrives, life changes in every way. Are you guys ready?" He skirted around the rtionship issue that was on his mind, but he was confident that the clever pair before him could read between the lines. As expected, Evangeline looped her arm through Walter''s with a yful air of relief and said, "I thought we


    were in for some trouble, Grandpa. Is this what you''re worried about?" Her eyes sparkled with warmth as she nced at Walter.


    Walter was caught off guard by the softness in Evangeline''s eyes. In a moment of awe, their eyes locked. With the gentle pressure of her hand on his, he regained hisposure. "Grandpa, we''ve already patched things up. It was all just a big misunderstanding, and once we cleared it up, everything was fine.


    "There''s no need for concern for us anymore. Maintaining good health should be your top priority while anticipating your precious great-grandchild!"


    Cole remained skeptical until Walter brought up their past issues. Seeing Walter openly address the misunderstanding with Evangeline, however, Cole''s worries disappeared.

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    "Well then, if you say so, what more could I ask for? I''m just looking forward to weing my precious great-grandchild and basking in familial happiness!" Cole imagined the joyful future, his eyes narrowing into a contented smile.


    Evangeline felt a weight lift off her shoulders, knowing she had finally won her grandfather''s approval. However, another thought then struck her. "Grandpa, all the head of the family, It''s not right to y favorites, is it?" Cole looked puzzled, "y favorites? When have I ever done that?"


    Cole had always doted on Evangeline, his granddaughter. If there was ever a case of ying favorites, she was definitely the golden child. Somehow, she still was not happy. "You''re always on my case about having kids with Walter, but what about my five uncles? You''re not exactly rushing them down the aisle. Isn''t that a bit unfair?" she challenged.


    Cole let out a weary sigh


    "Those uncles of yours? They march to the beat of their own drums. I can''t make heads or tails of their love lives. I could nag all day, and it wouldn''t make a dent. Thank goodness I''ve got you, my thoughtful granddaughter. Otherwise, I might leave this world without ever seeing a new generation." "Grandpa, cut it out, Evangeline chided gently.


    She let go of Walter''s hand and sat beside Cole, her presence afort.


    "Be honest, Grandpa. Don''t you want my uncles to find five amazing women to bring into our family? To give you a bunch of grandkids to spoil?"


    "Of course, I want that," admitted Cole, his voice firm but his eyes betraying a hint of sadness.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He knew it was a pipe dream. He med his younger self for being too preupied with work and not giving enough attention to his kids. His daughter had strayed, and his sons had grown cynical about love.


    "Okay, here''s the idea, Grandpa. I''ve got information on every eligible bachelorette in Avalon City. I''m nning to y matchmaker for my uncles!"


    "Is that so?" Cole''s face lit up with a spark of hope.


    "Absolutely. The Fosters are all about fairness, and that includes how we handle having kids. It''s got to be fair game for everyone. Otherwise, why should I be the only one stuck with a kid while my five uncles are out having the time of their lives every day? It just doesn''t sit right with me!"


    Evangeline''s frustration bubbled over, and she pouted like a little girlying out her case of unfalmess to her folks.


    What she did not realize was that this very expression made Walter''s heart race. He always knew Evangeline as the picture-perfect niece in front of the elders, but this fiery, childlike outburst was new to him. It was surprisingly thrilling, even. Staring at her pouty red lips, he was itching to pull her in for a kiss, -to feel the softness and warmth of her lips.


    Cole could not help but burst intoughter at Evangeline''s antics. "Don''t sweat it, Evie. I''m all ears for your big news!"


    They hung out with Cole a bit longer before hitting the road.


    Since hunger was not gnawing at him, Walter was eager to chat with Evangeline, about anything really, just to hear her voice. "So, about you ying matchmaker for the uncles-is that for real, or just a tall tale to entertain Gran

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    Chapter 350 Chapter 350


    Walter had a good grasp of Evangeline''s uncles'' situation. Each one was a catch but without a girlfriend. which clearly meant they were not looking for love. Was this something Evangeline could change with a simple pitch?


    "Come on, do I look like I have that kind of time on my hands? To y matchmaker for Grandpa''s amusement?"


    Evangeline shot Walter a sidelong nce, but the mernory of their little performance in front of Cole zapped her confidence. "Look, our mess is unique. I''ve pretty much given up on our shot at a happy ending, so let''s just make sure the rest of the family gets theirs. If Grandpa ever gets wind of our drama, maybe the others'' bliss will cushion the blow for him."


    She was trying to give her grandpa an emotional Band-Aid before he ever needed it. Next on her list was to tackle the love lives of her uncles, starting with Yale and her best friend, Roslyn. The thought perked her right up, washing away the gloom.


    However, Walter was hung up on the whole ''given up her shot at a happy ending'' bit. His eyes clouded over with sadness. He wondered, if he told her they could still find joy together, would she buy it?


    "Evangeline..." he called out, desperate to spill his heart out to her.


    Too bad Evangeline was not having any of it. "Walter, thanks to you, I''m expecting. And I''m grateful, really. She caressed her belly, her smile bittersweet. "But don''t sweat it. Our baby-making deal still stands. This little one''s all mine, and you''re free to chase your own happy ending, no strings attached." She rattled off her words, cutting him off before he could dive in. It was her way of pping a lid on the chaos inside her.


    Evangeline harbored a mischievous devil in her heart.


    This devil was a chatty little thing, always whispering sly suggestions in her ear. "Come on, you''re into Walter, right? What''s the harm in using a baby to keep him close? Mr. Gordon has a soft spot for you. Once he hears you''re expecting, he''ll have your back for sure. Walter wouldn''t dream of leaving you then!"Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Deep down, Evangeline knew this was true, but her conscience would not let her go down that road.


    It was no secret that Walter''s heart belonged to Julia.


    Evangeline''s past whims had cost them all dearly. She had the chance to make things right, and she could not let her stubbornness ruin her and Walter''s chance at a happy future....


    In the sleek office of the Gordon Group building, David studied Walter, whose usually knitted brows seemed permanently etched into his forehead, his face more solemn than ever.


    David was clueless about what had happened. All he knew was that Walter had transformed overnight from a fiery dragon into an ice sculpture.


    The kind of cold that induced shivering merely by standing next to him.


    "David, you need something?" Walter''s voice was light, but his gaze sent a shiver down David''s spine, leaving him feeling like he was covered in ayer of frost.


    "Nope, all good here. Anything you need, sir?"


    Walter responded without words, simply pointing at the door.


    Message received loud and clear: The door is that way. David, with no business left, could show himself


    out

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    David''s cheeks burned with shame. He was the right-hand man to the big boss of Gordon Group, and he would just be booted out of the office for all to see. How was he supposed to show his face?


    However, when it came down to it, facing Walter''s icy re, David did not think twice before he made a beeline for the exit.


    He shut the office door behind him, leaving only a door between him and Walter, Leaning against the cool wood, he breathed a sigh of relief and dabbed at the sweat breaking out on his forehead. In his head, he could not help but shout, "Who in the world ticked off the boss this time?!


    The boss''s mood swings were like a roller coaster, making life difficult for everyone trying to do their jobs.


    The chill from the boss''s office did not take long to reach the secretaries. The head of the department stared at the hefty stack of papers in her hands, feeling stuck between a rock and a hard ce.


    Lately, Walter had been all over the ce emotionally, and the secretaries were walking on eggshells. They were just trying to keep their heads down and get through each day without causing trouble. The department head could not even finish her work.


    She could not seriously be expected to hand-deliver those papers to the boss, could she? Sure, she could make the trip, but doing such grunt work herself could make the boss question herpetence.


    What she did not realize was that Minnie, who was pretending to be buried in work but was actually twiddling her thumbs, had been watching her struggle.


    Minnie had been keeping an eye on the department head for a while. The documents that Walter had demanded first thing in the morning had been with the department head for ages, yet there was no sign of ''them being delivered. Minnie smelled trouble brewing


    Knowing Walter''s office was like a ticking time bomb, Minnie had a rather good guess about what was


    going on.


    The department head''s hesitation must be about choosing the right person to send the documents, right?


    As expected, the department head took the papers for a walk around the office.


    Her colleagues, who were usually all smiles and jokes with her, had done aplete 180. They were avoiding her like she had the gue.


    Nobody knew that Minnie had gotten a taste for the thrill after handling a tricky situationst time. She had been quietly on the lookout for another chance to shine.


    When the perfect moment finally arrived, she could not possibly let it slip through her fingers.


    However, she had to y it cool. If the department head caught on to her eagerness, it could backfire big time.


    Thus, Minnie grabbed her water bottle and, pretending to get a refill, just so happened to walk past the head of the secretarial department.


    The department head was desperate to offload some work. When Minnie, the office neer, crossed


    her path, she saw her chance.


    "Hey, Minnie, this pile of papers needs to get to the president''s office, pronto."


    Before Minnie could even respond, the department head dumped the documents in her arms and bolted from the office like a bat out of hell.


    Minnie stood there, clutching the papers, putting on a show of looking conflicted.


    The office erupted into whispers and side-eyes.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Can you believe the nerve of this new girl? Marching into the lion''s den like that! Isn''t she scared of getting chewed out?"


    "Didn''t you see? The boss practically shoved the work on her. She''s new, she can''t just say no like we can."


    That was when a colleague with beady eyes piped up, joining the gossip brigade.


    you all forget? Last time, Minnie was the only one who didn''t leave the president''s office in tears. What do you think? Is something going on between her and the big boss...?" she said suggestively, winking and giving a knowing thumbs-up. The hint was crystal clear to anyone paying attention.


    With a tone of mock sympathy, she added, "Some of us just don''t have the guts she does. If you''re not up! to par, tough luck,"

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    Anyone else would be fuming if they were the subject of such talk.


    Minnie had been ying the long game at the office. She timed her moves perfectly and swooped in when everyone else steered clear of Walter.


    She was stirring the pot, hoping to get tongues wagging. After all, if the whole office started buzzing about her and Walter being more than just colleagues, Walter would find it a lot harder to cut her loose.


    She pretended to be all flustered but secretly thrilled as she picked up a stack of papers and sashayed into the office.


    The moment Minnie learned that Walter and Evangeline were done, she hatched a n. She was going to make her move while Walter was down in the dumps, and she was going to make sure he fell head over heels for her. That way, she would lock down the title of Mrs. Gordon of the Gordon family for good. Evangeline, that snake, would be forced out with no way back into the fold.


    Kicking her own half-sister to the curb did not even make Minnie blink. She believed she was born to be Mrs. Gordon, and that Evangeline had tricked Walter into marriage with her dirty tricks. Finally, payback time.


    Inside the office, Minnie ced the files right on Walter''s desk, which was her usual routine.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Walter was not working. He was lounging on the couch, lost in a daydream as he gazed out the


    window


    He had no desire to speak or to work. He just wanted to sit in silence, as if that was the only way to


    soothe his hollow heart for a while.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, your documents are here. Do you want to take a look?"


    Walter nced up as he recognized the voice.


    Minnie''s smile was bright and captivating, but for a split second, he could have sworn he saw Julia''s face


    Instead.


    They looked so much alike. He could not shake the feeling that Minnie was actually Julia, the one he had sent off to Northern Montavia. However, every time he tried to catch her out, she yed it cool, not a single slip-up.


    Noticing she was waiting for an answer, Walter gestured dismissively. "No need, Ms. Kast. You''ve been with us for a while now. How''s it going? Are you settling in okay?"


    If he had his doubts, he knew he had to y it cool too. How else would he catch her off guard?


    For once, Walter''s usually stern face softened into a smile as he greeted Minnie.


    "I''m doing great. Everyone''s been super nice. However, Mr. Walter Gordon, I''m on your team now, so calling me Ms. Kast feels sort of formal, don''t you think?" Minnie''s voice trailed off teasingly, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink. "I''d rather not be so formal with you, Mr. Walter Gordon. Maybe you could call me something else?" Her voice was gentle, almost flirtatiously pleading.


    A shadow crossed Walter''s eyes, but his smile widened. "Sure," he mused, stroking his chin, "What to call you? How about I just call you Minnie, like Alex does?"


    He rarely bothered with little things like what to call someone, but if Alex called her by her name, then he, as the boss, figured it was fitting to do the same.


    Too bad Minnie did not seem all that thrilled, her lips puckering up in the cutest way before she finally nodded. "If that''s what you want to call me, sure, go ahead!"


    Walter was a pro at figuring out what people were thinking, and he did not miss the tiny flicker of emotion on Minnie''s face.


    He raised an eyebrow and asked in a low voice, "What''s wrong? Don''t like being called by your name? Or is it that Alex can use it, but I can''t?"

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    Walter''sst line was loaded with meaning, making Minnie stop and think.


    To Minnie, it came off with a hint of bitterness. ''Oh my gosh. Was Walter actually jealous? Jealous of Alex, because of me?"


    Minnie''s cheeks turned a bright red, her face heating up as she tried not to p some sense into her flushed skin, murmuring. "No way! Everyone calls me Minnie, but I was hoping you''de up with something unique for me."


    It was just the two of them in the office, and even though she spoke softly, Walter caught every word.


    "Isn''t it nice that everyone calls you that? Why do you want me to be different?" Walter''s voice was teasing,ced with a flirty undertone.


    If Evangeline were there, she would have pegged it right away as Walter''s ssic moveying on the charm thick.


    However, Minnie was not just some bystander like Evangeline. She was head over heels for Walter, and in a moment of passion, she walked right into his little game of hearts.


    "Because... Because, Mr. Walter Gordon, you''re not just anybody to me, so I think I should have a name. that''s just as special."


    Minnie''s cheeks burned as she said that, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and sheer mortification. ''Oh my gosh, this is so awkward. How did Walt get so good at this whole charming thing? It''s been months, and now I''mpletely losing myposure around him!


    "So, dinner tonight? I feel like we''ve got to talk about this whole name thing." Walter asked.


    That invitation jolted Minnie back to the present moment.


    They were still at the office, where they could not just do whatever they wanted, all out in the open. However, after hours? That was a whole different story. They could be free to do anything!


    Minnie could not believe how fast things were moving with her Walt. Her n to win him over was working like a charm, so well that it almost seemed too good to be true.


    If luck was on her side, why not just go for it?


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, can I pick where we will go for dinner?" Sheid on the charm, her voice soft and sweet as she batted her eyshes at Walter.


    Walter had been nning to use that alone time with Minnie to test the waters once more. Since she was putting her cards on the table, how could he refuse? "Sounds good, see you after work!"


    As Minnie walked away, a sharp glint shed in Walter''s eyes. He quickly dialed David. "I''ve got ns with Minnie tonight. Bring a few extra people to tail us..." Minnie''s getting close was clearly for the chance to be alone with him tonight.


    He had given her the opportunity, and he was curious to see what kind of game she was ying.


    Unbeknownst to Walter, the Gordon family mansion was buzzing with chaos.


    However, it was not due to any misfortune. It was all because of a massive celebration.


    Evangeline was expecting!


    Trey had just gotten the scoop from Cole and wasted no time in bringing on the best medical team, nannies, and parenting professionals.


    However, that was not all. Trey even brought in a renovation crew to give the mansion aplete makeover. Every nook and cranny that could possibly pose a threat to his eagerly awaited great-grandkid was to be cushioned with the softest materials-no bumps or bruises on his watch.


    After all the hustle, Trey had a lightbulb moment about something crucial.


    His grandson, Walter, and Evie were still at odds.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

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    Lounging on the garden rocking chair, Trey enjoyed his coffee and casually rang up Walter. "Walter, swing by the house tonight, I''ve got something to discuss with you."


    Walter did not have a clue about treating his wife Evangeline right. If Trey did not step in and set him straight, they might end up with divorce papers. What then? Where would he find another gem like Evie for a granddaughter-inw? "Grandpa, I''m swamped with work. Can''t make it home, declined Walter without a second thought.


    He had ns with Minnie that evening, and bailing was not an option.


    However, what weighed on him the most was his rocky rtionship with Evangeline. He was not even sure if he should spill the beans about the pregnancy to his grandfather, much less face him head-on.


    Walter, a titan in the boardroom known for his cutthroat decisiveness, found himself unusually hesitant, trying to dodge his problems with half-hearted excuses


    The realization stung. That was not him at all.


    Even so, what could he do? Ever since Evangeline''s New Year''s Eve rebellion, when she threatened divorce, Walter felt like he was losing himself more each day. For Trey, overhearing that felt like a bucket of ice water to the face.


    "You''re out of line, kid!" he exploded. "You''re defying your own grandfather now? Listen up, I expect to see you at the Gordon family estate tonight, and that''s final!


    He was about to m down the phone to flex his authority when Walter''s voice came through, tinged with resignation.


    "Grandpa, please, no more drama, okay? I''ve got enough on my te. You should be rxing at home, not barking orders all the time."


    The situation with Evangeline was enough to break Walter''s heart, draining all his strength.


    "You think you''re so grown-up now, Walter? Too big to listen to me?" Trey rarely lost hisposure, but just as he was about to let loose, all he got was the dial tone. Walter had hung up on him!


    rey, seething in his rocking chair, turned a shade of stormy blue, his breaths ragged.


    Meanwhile, Aria, having neatly handled Trey''s requests, brought him his coffee, seizing the chance to get on the old man''s good side.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Father, I''ve got everything you asked for all set up. The moment Evie makes her move, our team will be right on it. There won''t be any dys with the baby''s arrival, you can count on that!"


    She thought it was rather premature to be making those ns when Evangeline''s baby was barely two months along. Of course, if it made the old man happy, why not go the extra mile?


    A little extra effort could score some points with the old man was always a win in her book.


    However, Trey, after hearing her, did not respond. Instead, he just stared at her with wide eyes, giving her


    w


    a thorough once-over.


    "Aria, forget you''re my daughter-inw for a second. What''s your take on me, as the head of the family?" ake on me, as the head of the family?"


    Trey was so worked up that his words came out all jumbled, but he did not even notice.


    Poor Aria was left trying to make heads or tails of it all, afraid to probe too much and risk setting him off. She weighed his words carefully before venturing a cautious reply.

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    Chapter 355


    "I think you''re amazing! The Gordon family has been a rock in Avalon City for years, all thanks to you being our anchor. Without you, who knows where Walter would have taken thepany with his limited skills?"


    Everybody loved a goodpliment. Trey, getting on in years, was no exception when it came to enjoying a bit of praise.


    Since it would not hurt Walter''s standing as the head honcho, Aria did not hold back on dishing out a couple of sweet nothings to keep Trey entertained.


    s, she missed the mark on what Trey was really getting at.


    He shook his head repeatedly. "That''s not what I meant I''m asking about how I am with the grandkids. What''s your opinion on that?"


    Walter had defied him time and again, forcing him to take a hard look at himself.


    Had he done something to give Walter the wrong idea, making Walter think it was okay to disrespect his own grandfather?


    "Kids these days...


    She was starting to regret topping off Trey''s coffee! Who would have guessed that Trey, all smiles just moments ago, would drop such a tough question on her?


    Aria sneaked a cautious peek at the old man''s face, trying to gauge his mood. "You''re really good to the kids, super kind!"


    "That''s the spirit!" Trey''s eyes lit up like torches.


    Aria had hit the bullseye with herment.


    If he had not been so darn soft on Walter, would the kid have dared to pull such rebellious stunts?


    At the end of the day, it was his own fault for getting old and soft, letting everyone forget the old thunder and lightning he used to bel


    Trey fell silent again, and Aria was stuck in limbo, not sure if she should stick around or bolt.


    She ventured a question. "Dad, do you need anything else? If not, I''ll go see how dinner''sing along in the kitchen?"


    She did not really care about what was happening in the kitchen, it was just a handy excuse to make her


    exit.


    Trey gave a dismissive wave, indicating she could go, but then he whipped out his phone and made a call.


    "My old friend, you''ve been lying low for years. It''s time for you to step back into the game!"


    10 minutester, a man in a ck trench coat and dark sunsses appeared before Trey.


    "Mr. Gordon, good to see you." The man greeted Trey with the utmost respect. Trey beamed at the sharp-looking man in front of him, "What''s your name, young man?"


    The man took a step forward, and replied with confident respect, "Hey, I''m Thomas Yates. Grandpa told me you guys go way back, and meeting you is like meeting him all over again. So, no need for formalities, okay? Just call me Thomas, like he does." "Sure thing. Thomas. I asked your grandpa if you could swing by today because I need a favor. I need you to check in on my grandson, who''s been nothing but trouble..."


    "Isn''t Walter supposed to be swamped with work?'' Trey thought. He was curious to see what could possibly be more pressing than Walter rushing to make things right with his pregnant wife!Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    At the Foster family''s sprawling vi...


    Evangeline, decked out in herid-back gear andfy ts, dropped by to see Cole.


    She could have stayed put at her own ce, but with her right eyelid twitching like crazy and a gut feeling something was off, she decided to head over to Cole''s once more.


    Cole had just polished off his lunch when Evangeline, his granddaughter, showed up. He smiled at her presence.

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    "Evie, what brings you here?" Cole asked, his voice filled with a happy surprise.


    "Oh, what''s the matter, Grandpa? You don''t want me here? Maybe I should just head back?" Evangeline teased, but her bodynguage said the opposite.


    She sat on the couch next to Cole and tossed her bag onto the coffee table without a second thought. She clearly was not going anywhere.


    "Now that you''ve made it here, where do you think you''re going?" said Cole, half-joking, half-worried, as he grabbed her hand. "Evie, don''t forget, you''re always wee here, anytime. I''m just concerned about you, you know? You''re having a baby, and you should be taking it easy."


    Evangeline caught the worry in Cole''s eyes and quickly reached out to give his hand a reassuring pat. You''re fretting over nothing, aren''t you? This little one inside me is tough as nails. Mrs. Lewis even told me it''s better to keep moving when you''re pregnant, instead of sitting around like everyone says. It''s good for the baby, as long as I''m up to it!"


    Cole, who was a man through and through, did not know much about pregnancy and was instantly curious. "Why''s that? And who''s this Mrs. Lewis? She''s hot some kind of troublemaker, is she?"Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline could not help but feel touched by his concern, and she quickly set his mind at ease. "Dol look like I''d be easily fooled? I can tell when someone''s looking out for me. At first, I thought Mrs. Lewis''s advice was odd, but she exined that if you don''t move around, you won''t have an appetite. And without eating, where''s the nutrition for the baby going toe from? It made sense to me, so I decided to stay


    active."


    Cole nodded, seeing the logic in it. Even so, he could not help adding a word of caution. "Sure, that makes sense, but don''t overdo it. I''ve heard the first three months can be a bit risky, and you''ve got to think about being a mom now. You''ve got to take extra care!"


    It was not his ce to give advice on pregnancy, he knew that. However, Evangeline''s mother was gone, and there was not a single woman of the older generation to step in. His sons were too wrapped up in their work to think about those things. So, it fell to him to speak up, even if it meant being a bit forward. Evangeline nodded with a smile. "Got it, I know!"


    Evangeline nodded eagerly, taking the steaming pear and vani bean soup from the servant, ready to spoon-feed Cole. However, Cole lifted his hand to stop her. "Evie, put the bowl down for a sec. We need to talk.


    "I was on the phone with Trey from the Gordons today


    He did not even finish his sentence before Evangeline felt her heart sink.


    She had been so careful to keep her pregnancy under wraps from the Gordons, thinking it would not mess with her and Walter''s deal to have a baby. She never guessed the family heads would end up chatting.


    "Who knew, without this call, I wouldn''t have found out that Mr. Gordon is still in the dark about you and Walter patching things up, and about your pregnancy. Evie, when was thest time you saw Mr. Gordon? Are you nning to keep the baby a secret from him?" Cole''s face was all serious, and when he got to thest part, Evangeline could see the doubt in his eyes

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    "Grandpa, don''t get the wrong idea, okay?" said Evangeline, almost begging, as she set the bowl down. Evangeline faced Cole with all seriousness. "Walter and I have been dreaming of this baby since we tied the knot. We''ve been nning for so long, and now that we''re finally expecting, we''re over the moon. I wanted to tell you the good news first, and I just... I just forgot about Mr. Gordon!"


    Evangeline dropped her gaze, doing her best to look like she was genuinely apologetic. She kept her fingers crossed behind her back, hoping for a break, when Cole''s warm voice finally floated over. "Well, in that case, you better go tell him yourself. "We''re the Fosters, a big deal around here. We can''t have people thinking our princess doesn''t know her


    manners, can we?"


    Evangeline met Cole''s eyes, knowing she could not dodge the bullet. She had to face the Gordons.


    "Okay, okay, I''m on it! I''ve got to deliver such awesome news to Mr. Gordon myself." She grabbed the bowl and spoon again, gently blowing on a spoonful of pear and vani bean soup to cool it down before offering it to Cole. "Let me feed you this, and then I''ll go over to the Gordons'' ce to fix things up, deal?"


    Cole smiled when she agreed, and he could not resist a yful jab, "Fix things up? What good have you done, huh?"Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline gave her tummy a proud pat and dered, "Hey, I''m carrying the Gordons'' next big thing. Isn''t that worth something?"


    While peace reigned in the old Foster home, the Gordon mansion was another story. From the second Thomas walked in, it was like a cold front had rolled through.


    "Aria, scared stiff of saying the wrong thing to Trey, stayed put in her room, noting out no matter who called.


    Trey was shaking with fury as he scanned the documents Thomas had brought. "Thomas, tell me this isn''t true."


    Thomas, the grandson of Trey''s lifelong buddy and known for his level-headedness, had Trey''s full trust. However, the bombshell he had just dropped was about Trey''s own grandson, the one who seemed to make a career out of trouble.


    Thomas had done his homework on the Gordons before showing up, so he got why Trey was seeing red." Mr. Gordon, maybe my team goofed and handed me the wrong file. Hang tight, l-double-check and get back to you, okay?"


    He was sure of his facts, but seeing Trey, all worked up like that, Thomas felt a pang of guilt and tried to offer some breathing room.


    However, Trey justughed, a big, booming sound. "You think you can pull one over on me, kid?" He wagged a shaky finger at Thomas. "I might be old, but I''m not out of the game yet."


    Thomas grinned rather sheepishly. "Me, trick you? I wouldn''t dream of it! My granddad always said you were sharp as a tack. You had me second-guessing myself for a moment!" After smoothing things over, Thomas got back to business. "So, should run through everything one more time?"

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    Chapter 358Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Trey smacked his leg and spat out, "Run through it again? At this rate, that boy and Minnie will secretly have a kid before we know it!"


    Poor Evie,'' Trey thought, shaking his head. How did she fall head over heels for the ck sheep of the family? She would have been better off with Alex, not Walter, the troublemaker. Thetest fiasco had Trey enraged, and he could not dredge up a single happy thought about Walter. However, this was no time for regrets. It was time for action.


    His eyes smoldering, he barked orders at Thomas. "Find out where that no-good grandson of mine is taking his date. We''re going to crash their little party!"


    Thomas, taken aback by Trey''s intensity, could hardly believe what he was hearing. "Mr. Gordon, you


    mean to-


    "We''re going to catch him red-handed!" Trey dered, his face stern but his voice steady.


    What kind of grandfather would go on a grandson-stalking mission? However, Walter had crossed the line, and Trey''s pride was thest thing on his mind. Evie, sweet and naive, had been too easy a target for Walter''s games. Trey would not stand for it. He was ready to defend her honor,e whatever would. Trey had everything ready and had been just waiting for Thomas'' word to move out.


    However, life loved a curveball, and who should show up at the Gordon family vi but the very person Trey had been hoping to see, yet could not simply turn away?


    In the vi''s grand living room, Trey sat with an air of dignity, but his face softened into a warm smile at the sight of his visitor. "Evie, to what do I owe the pleasure today?" Evangeline set down her water and grinned yfully. "What''s the matter, Grandpa? Didn''t expect to see


    me?"


    Evangeline could not shake the feeling that Trey was off. He seemed... on edge, which was odd. Ever since he left thepany''s management, he had been all about that tranquil life, mastering his temper since it''s a health no-no.


    Usually, Trey was cheerful, keeping any crankiness or outbursts to a rare minimum. However, Evangeline was still reeling from Cole''s mega-lecture, and her senses were all out of whack, making everyone seem at bit off.


    "No way," Trey chuckled, though he was fretting internally.


    ''Great timing, Evie,'' he thought. Why now, just when I''m about to nab Walter?"


    Thomas would whisk him away in mere moments. How on earth would he exin that to Evangeline? They were already tangled up in misunderstandings, and spilling the beans then would just make things worse.


    -Trey vowed to keep his mission to catch Walter in the act totally under wraps. Evangeline and the Fosters could not find out!


    If Walter, that little troublemaker, kept messing around with shady characters, Trey would give him a Chapter 359


    piece of his mind behind closed doors, until he swore to treat Evie right.


    "It''s been ages since you dropped by, and now it feels weird having you here all of a sudden..."


    Trey''s words mirrored Evangeline''s own thoughts. She had been dreading that visit to the Gordons.

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    It was not that Evangeline did not miss Trey.


    The Gordon family''s home, with all its familiar sights and sounds, always managed to stir up some not-so- happy memories for her. It was like the ce had a way of bringing all those feelings right back to the surface.


    Then there was Trey, who had always stood by her and Walter. She was about to walk away from that rtionship for good, taking the Gordon family''s great-grandson with her. She could not help but feel guilty about leaving the old man behind.


    "I''m sorry I haven''t been around," said Evangeline regretfully. "Right after I took over at the Foster family''spany, Walter and I had this huge fight, and I just couldn''t find the time toe see you. By the time ! managed to get a CEO to fill in for me, Grandpa Cole got sick, and one thing led to another... I''m really sorry it took so long."Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She was trying to be as sincere as possible, but words seemed to fall short of expressing even a fraction of the guilt weighing on her heart.


    After all, she did not juste to simply visit the Gordon family. She brought something else with her.


    The Gemstone Bracelets, a treasured heirloom passed down through generations of the Gordon family''s daughters-inw, said to be worth a fortune.


    Cole had sent Evangeline over to share the good news that she and Walter were doing well, expecting nothing but smiles andughter.


    However, Evangeline had something else in mind.


    Her rtionship with Walter was beyond repair, and it felt only right to return the priceless Gemstone Bracelets, a symbol of her ce in the family, back to Trey.


    As she stood there, lost in thought, she heard Trey let out a deep, heavy sigh.


    "Evie, sweetheart, you''ve got nothing to apologize for. This mess is all that troublemaker Walter''s fault! Just wait until I get my hands on him-I''m going to make sure he learns his lesson, all for you!"


    Trey was fuming as he thought about what Walter had done, his anger practically steaming out of his ears.


    "No need to worry about me, Grandpa. I''m over it," said Evangeline, and she meant every word. Her gaze met Trey''s, and it was clear she was being honest.


    3


    Ever since she had made up her mind to let go of Walter for good, the anger had drained away, leaving behind a deeper understanding. Walter''s heart belonged to Julia, and Evangeline''s presence was an unwantedplication for him. How could he not resent being stuck with her?


    When it came down to it, she realized she was the one who had set that whole tragedy in motion. Walter was just caught in the crossfire-how could he be at fault?


    Her fingers brushed against her wrists, just below the sleeves where the Gemstone Bracelets she nned -to return were hidden.


    However, Trey missed the hint in Evangeline''s words, his thoughts running in theplete opposite direction.


    "Oh, Evie, as long as you''re not upset, that''s all that matters to me. It means there''s still hope for me..."


    Trey''s frail, aged hands gently tapped the back of Evangeline''s hand, his voice choked up with a mix of relief and gratitude. "You just leave it to me. As long as I''ve got a day left on this earth, I''ll make things right. No way I''m letting that scoundrel get the best of you!" Trey''s wow was heartfelt, and each wordnded on Evangeline''s heart like a warm andforting spring. In her mind, she pondered...


    The Gordon family was thriving, and so was Trey, but Evangeline''s connection with Walter just was not meant tost-a case of too little destiny to keep them together.


    She was about to slip off her bracelet when she noticed Trey''s eyes, red-rimmed and teary, as if he was on the brink of a breakdown.


    "Grandfather..."


    All the hurt she had bottled up for days found its way to the surface, and Evangeline could not hold back the tears any longer, not with Trey looking on.

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    Chapter 360 Chapter


    Evangeline fought hard to keep herposure, forcing back the tears threatening to spill back.


    She paused in the act of removing her bracelet, wanting to say something to cushion the blow of what was essentially calling off her engagement, to warn Trey before it happened. However, Trey seemed distracted, his attention elsewhere.


    Thomas was well aware that his dealings could tarnish the Gordon family''s reputation, so he was extra carefuling and going from their vi.


    He had nned to meet with Trey, but he always made sure to check his surroundings before making an


    appearance.


    What he did not expect was to spot Evangeline deep in conversation with Trey.


    He had no desire to bump into anyone but Trey, so he waited quietly to the side. Time dragged on, and the grandfather-granddaughter duo seemed to have an endless conversation. Thomas checked his watch, pacing back and forth with impatience, before he cautiously peeked out from where Evangeline could not see.


    Trey, with his sharp senses, quickly noticed Thomas lurking nearby.


    InThis is from N?velDrama.Org.


    the Gordon Group''s secretarial department.


    The clock was ticking down to quitting time when Minnie ducked into the bathroom for a quick ''makeover. She stared at her reflection, her brows knitting together in worry.


    She had a date with Walter, and she wanted it to be perfect. Dinner alone would not cut it. She was aiming to make that night unforgettable and to sweep Walter off his feet. Of course, how could she do that without the right setting?


    The Reardens never had a foothold in Avalon City, and Minnie''s options were limited to her dorm or... a hotel. However, she could not just drag a guy to a hotel on the first date, right? That would be way too forward, and even if Minnie did not mindying her cards on the table, would Walter be on board?


    She had not quite gotten a read on him yet, which was probably why she had not charmed him already.


    Then, like a lightbulb flicking on, Minnie had a brainwave and dialed a number.


    A gruff, electronically distorted voice answered, "Minnie, how many times do I have to say it? Are you allergic to understanding? Don''t call me unless it''s really important, okay?"


    The annoyance was palpable. Minnie could take a hint, but she was no quitter. She knew she was pushing it, but sometimes, she had to push to get what she wanted.


    Minnie''s real genius was that she always had her eye on the prize, no matter how the other person felt about it.


    "I''ve got something really important to talk about. Why else would I bother you?" she said with such seriousness that even the person on the phone had to chuckle.


    "Spill it, what''s so important? Just a heads up, if it''s not a big deal, don''t get mad if I block you."


    "Okay, here goes!" Minnie''sughter was infectious, and she was not the least bit scared of the threat.. She knew her news was going to be a game-changer for the person on the other end. "I need a room."


    Before she could get another word out, she was cut off by an impatient voice.


    "Looking for a room? Hit up a hotel. Whye to me?


    "Hear me out. Walt''s already said yes to dinner with me tonight. I''m looking for a super quiet ce to charm my Walt. Once I''m Mrs. Gordon of the Gordon family, you''ll get whatever you want, right?"

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    The thought of winning Walter over made Minnie''s eyes twinkle with excitement. She was so eager she could hardly think about dinner, she just wanted to whisk Walter away and get down to business!


    "An absolutely quiet house..." The thoughtful murmur on the other end filled Minnie with hope.


    Then...


    "You''re after my vi! That ce is special, it''s not meant for your little schemes."


    Minnie felt like she had been caught, but she was not ready to give up. She softened her voice and pleaded, "But even if it''s special, is it more special than your most treasured possession-me? Plus, your vi''s just sitting there empty. I''ll only be there for a short while. If you''re that worried, I promise I won''t touch the master bedroom, deal?"


    Even though they were only connected by a phone call, Minnie stretched out three fingers to the sky, as if taking a solemn oath, to show just how honest she was being.


    Of course, Minnie thought differently. Once she got inside the house, she would be the one to choose her room, right? If there was any problem, she could always tidy it up for himter.


    The person on the other end of the line went quiet, as if they were really mulling over Minnie''s words.


    It felt like forever before he finally sighed. "Fine,e and pick up the keys..."


    Minnie was so thrilled she nearly shrieked, quickly saying. "No need, no need, I''ve got the keys. Just say! cane, and we''re good."


    She did not even wait for an answer before she hung up.


    Minnie''s beautiful smile shone back at her from the bright mirror. She leaned in for a closer look, then her


    brow creased.


    Was her lipstick not perfect enough?


    She pulled out her lipstick and carefully went over it again, then strutted out of the bathroom with


    confidence.


    Down at the Gordon Group skyscraper''s base, a sleek ck Maybach sat, its presencemanding attention. The people leaving work could not help but steal nces, wondering which rich young heir it belonged to and which Gordon Group beauty he was waiting for. Behind the wheel, Walter''s eyes were like ice, scanning the crowd, on high alert for the one person he had been waiting for.


    Atst, Minnie emerged from the building, her makeup wless, her handbag in tow.


    She nced around, then whipped out her phone, her fingers dancing across the screen.


    Then, a chime.


    Walter''s phone lit up with a new message-it was from Minnie.


    He did not answer her. Instead, as Minnie nced his way, he casually waved out the car window.


    Minnie had no trouble finding Walter, but she did not hop right into the car. She sauntered over to the driver''s side with a yful smile dancing on her lips.


    Walter, a bit confused, raised an eyebrow. "Why aren''t you getting in?"


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve never had the chance to drive such a fancy car. Maybe you could let me take the wheel just this once?" said Minnie, shing her driver''s license she had brought along, waving it in front of Walter like a trophy. "See? I''ve even got my license with me!"


    Walter hesitated, his face a mask of uncertainty. Minnie pouted, her voice dripping with charm, "Come on, please? Just fulfill this tiny wish for me."


    Walter scanned the surroundings, his mind racing with worry.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    He owned a fleet of cars, a Maybach was just one of them. Letting Minnie drive was not the issue. What bothered him was something entirely different.

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    Chapter 362


    It was quitting time at the Gordon Group building, and thepany''s entrance was bustling with employees heading home. His Maybach stood out like a beacon in the crowd.


    If he stepped out now, in full view of everyone, and let Minnie slide into his car... Would not that be like broadcasting to the world that there was something going on between them?


    Sure, he was curious about Minnie''s intentions, but his heart belonged to Evangeline. Thest thing he wanted was to fuel rumors with another woman!


    However, as Minnie''s hopeful eyes locked onto his, Walter felt his resolve start to crumble.


    It was not about the allure of the woman before him. He had just realized that Minnie''s choice to make that move so publicly was clearly calcted.


    Walter had finally figured out who Minnie really was, and he knew he would not have to deal with her anymore. The situation with Evangeline was already rocky, so he figured he could smooth things overter. With a dramatic sigh, Walter gave Minnie a look that was all about spoiling her. "Fine, you can drive.


    He swung the car door open and stepped out. In front of everyone from Gordon Group, he gestured for Minnie to slide into the driver''s seat, while he casually made his way to the passenger side. The car zoomed off, leaving a cloud of dust behind.


    Minnie caught the stunned looks of her coworkers in the rearview mirror and smirked.


    Ever since she had started in the secretarial pool, they had been subtly trying to keep her away from Walter. Even then, she had managed to get close to him, and it felt like a sweet victory. ''Just wait,'' she thought. ''When I''m sitting pretty as Mrs. Gordon, their faces are going to be priceless!"


    Minnie gripped the wheel.


    Walter, noticing the unfamiliar roads, asked, ''Ms. Kast, where are we headed?"


    With a twinkle in her eye, Minnie nced over at him when the road was clear, "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''m taking you somewhere secret. You''ll see when we get there."


    "Shouldn''t we grab a bite first? I can''t be a gentleman if I''m letting ady starve," he said with a hint of charm.


    Walter''s ride was shadowed by a bodyguard from the Gordon family, so he was not sweating any shenanigans from Minnie.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    His question was just a way to dig a little, to figure out what was up with thisdy.


    However, all he got back was Minnie''s dazzling smile.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, knowing you''re a gentleman is all that matters to me. Everyone else''s chatter doesn''t mean a thing. Just chill and wait," she said. Walter mmed up after that, just watching as the car zigzagged to a vi perched halfway up a hill.


    17


    Nestled against the mountain in the heart of autumn, the ce was aze with red maple leaves-it was a stunning view.


    Stepping out of the car, Walter was blown away. He had been in Avalon City for ages and never knew about that hidden gem.


    That spot, he thought, held its own against the Crystal Waters apartment he shared with Evangeline.


    Minnie stepped out too and sidled up next to Walter. "Mr. Walter Gordon, what do you think of the view?"


    she asked.


    "It''s stunning." he admitted, genuinely impressed.


    Minnie gazed at the fiery sunset, entirely captivated.


    "I feel the same. Whenever I''ve got the juice after work, I swing by to soak it all in. It''s like a power-up that gets me pumped for the next day."

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    That was when the vi''s key came into the picture.


    However, Minnie kept her dreams to herself.


    She had always wished to stand with her dear Walter as the sun dipped low, taking in the gorgeous side by side.


    view


    She gazed at the scene unfolding before her, and no words were needed. Her wish had alreadye to


    life.


    "This is quite the spot," Waltermented, though his heart was not in it. His mind was busy piecing together the clues hidden in Minnie''s casual chatter.


    Minnie was not a permanent fixture in that ce.


    Nheless, her infatuation with the view there, paired with her absence, hinted that the vi belonged to someone else.


    "Let''s head in," Minnie suggested, eager to get on with the evening''s significant affairs rather than linger in the twilight.


    Inside, the vi was a study in understated elegance, awash in shades of pale blue-a stark contrast to the vibrant reds Minnie and the vanished Julia were known to favor. Clearly, Minnie would not choose a color scheme so at odds with her preferred hues. Despite its minimalist vibe, the vi oozed opulence in the details: Masterpieces adorned the walls, a grand pianomanded the living room, and musical notes were a recurring motif.


    The owner, it seemed, had a soul that danced to the rhythm of music.


    Walter filed away those insights as Minnie led him to the kitchen.


    Though not the mistress of the house, Minnie was no stranger there. With a nod from the powers that be, she had the housekeeper whip up a feast and then sent her off for the day.


    By the time they arrived, a spread fit for royalty awaited them,plete with fine wine and steak- Minnie''s choice would be the evening''s guide.


    Western-style dinners were all about that ssy, romantic vibe. However, with the sun still up, Minnie figured lighting candles would be kind of goofy. Thus, she ditched that idea and just served up two perfectly cooked steaks, feeling a bit awkward as she said, "I wasn''t sure about your favorite vors, so I made a bit of everything..."


    "Don''t sweat it, I''m easy to please. Minnie, you don''t have to be so uptight." Walter cut her off, all understandingProperty ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Outside the office, we''re not just coworkers. I''m hoping you can rx when it''s just us."


    He figured if Minnie could loosen up, he might just uncover some clues about who she really was.


    Minnie, clueless about Walter''s game, blushed and thought he was just into hanging out with her. "Walt- Walter, this isn''t much fun, is it? Hang on a second."


    She zipped out and came back with two sses of red wine, one for her and the other she held out to Walter like she was waiting for him to grab it.


    Walter raised an eyebrow, then epted the wine from her hopeful hands with a sly grin on his face.


    "Minnie, I''m just a regr guy, and here we are, alone. You''re not just at ease with it; you''re even sharing a drink with me. You''ve got guts!"

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    Chapter 364


    Walter thought he had Minnie''s real motives pegged. He was just ying around with his words, already on his toes.


    Minnie''s eyes danced, and she yfully heaped on the praise.


    "I trust you''re a true gentleman, Walter, and a real gentleman would never take advantage of a girl," said Minnie sincerely. However, Inside, she was already plotting her next move. Walter was at the height of his longing, especially since it had been ages since he had seen Evangeline. He was practically bursting at the seams.


    However, Minnie was not about to rely on Walter''s willpower. To make sure she would have Walter wrapped around her finger, she had slipped a little something extra into his wine. Once he sipped that wine, even a saint would not be able to resist her charms!


    "So... how about a toast?"


    Walter took the wine, and their sses clinked in unison.


    They shared a romantic dinner, and Minnie watched with relief as Walter finished off his wine.


    She had chosen a slow-acting potion with a powerful kick to avoid any suspicion. She was not in any rush; there was plenty of time for her n to unfold.


    After they ate, Minnie offered to show Walter around the vi.


    Once they had toured the ce, and Walter''s cheeks started to turn a rosy shade, Minnie led him to the


    bedroom.


    This was not just any bedroom. This was the vi''s master suite.


    The room was bathed in a serene sky-blue, with a style that was clean and simple. The bed was made with crisp, fresh linens, and everything looked untouched.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    The most striking feature of the room was the solid wood carved disy cab, showcasing an array of collectibles.


    Walter was not the type to get caught up in collecting stuff, but even he could see that those items were worth a pretty penny.


    Just then, something caught his eye


    Tucked away among the high-ticket collectibles was a small watch with chipped paint that stood out like a sore thumb.


    It was not the watch''s price tag that grabbed his attention, though... Walter''s brow creased in thought.


    The watch seemed strangely familiar. Had he seen it somewhere before?


    He did not have time to ponder it because Minnie''s voice cut through his thoughts. "Walter, are those collectibles really that amazing? You''re totally zoned out looking at them!"


    He turned to see Minnie sprawled on the bed, striking a pose that was both inviting and yful, her lips


    puckered in a cute, cheeky pout. Catching Walter''s gaze, she casually tapped the empty space beside her and teased, "You... Why don''t youe over here?"


    Her shy smile was at odds with her bold Invitation. To a guy who had had a bit too much to drink, it was like a neon sign beckoning him over!


    Walter chuckled, a soft, affectionate sound, "Sure thing, I''m on my way..."


    Meanwhile, over at the Gordon family''s ce, everything seemed calm on the surface thanks to Evangeline''s visit. However, Trey was freaking out. He was like a jittery critter on a hot skillet, itching to do something but stuck in ce. Thomas had tried to give him the heads-up twice already, but with Evangeline right there, he could not exactly broadcast his ns. Thus, he stayed quiet, biding his time for the perfect moment to make his


    move.

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    Chapter 365


    However, Evangeline, who never wanted to step foot in the Gordon family''s home, was oddly patient today. She spent ages chatting with Trey and did not even hint at leaving. Trey felt like he was about to lose it. Why did everything have to pile up today? If he did not have such a big thing to do, he would have been excited about Evangeline''s visit! "Evie, it''s getting prettyte, and hanging out with an old guy like me can''t be all that exciting. Maybe you should hit up Walter?"


    He knew Walter was off with some other girl at the moment. However, he was sure his no-good grandson would not be dumb enough to let Evangeline catch wind of his shenanigans


    That was his way of passing the buck. If he could just get Evangeline to step out for a bit, he would have the freedom to do whatever he needed to do!


    "Non


    need, Grandpa, I actually like spending time with you."


    The thought of even remembering Walter felt like a waste of time to Evangeline, so why would she reach out to him?


    Besides, she spent so much time with Trey mostly because she felt guilty.


    She had been ignoring Trey, who was about the same age as Cole, for too long because of her whims. At this moment, before she and Walter officially split, she wanted to make things right. There might not be another chance. "Think it''s quite nice... Trey muttered Evangeline''s words to himself,pletely overwhelmed.


    She was content, but what was he supposed to do then?


    Thomas'' face was getting more worried by the second. If he did not get moving, he was going to miss out on something major!


    "Hey... Evie, Grandpa''s not as spry as you kids anymore. After sitting around all afternoon, I''m really feeling it. I''m going to head back and get some rest. Your and Walter''s room is all set; the nanny has kept it spotless. Just make yourself at home." Evangeline could not very well insist Trey stay up when he was clearly worn out, so she rose to her feet and helped the old man to his room.


    However, Trey had a point. Hanging out with him could be boring, nothing like the non-stop chatter and cozy catch-ups she had with Cole.


    After a whole afternoon of sitting. Evangeline was ready to kick back in her room too.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    However, as soon as she walked in, Trey''s pale face popped into her head.


    What if he was hiding some health sca


    just to keep her from worrying?


    The more she thought about it, the more anxious she got. However, Trey had said he needed his rest. She would be barging in on his downtime if she went to check on him then, right? Torn, Evangeline paced her room until she found herself at the window-and what she saw blew her mind.


    Trey, who had been all about needing rest and had been tucked into bed, was not resting at all. Instead, he was striding out of the vi, leaning on a cane.


    Right outside, a sleek ck jeep was waiting. With a little help from a guy in ck, Trey hopped right in.


    Trey had been out of the game for years, leaving thepany in the hands of the next generation. He had not meddled in business since.


    Since that was the case, where was he off to in such a hurry?


    A chill ran down Evangeline''s spine. Something must be up with Gordon Group.


    If that was the reason, it made sense why Trey was freaking out.

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    Chapter 366


    At the same time, Trey was not young. Could he handle that kind of stress?


    Evangeline chewed on her lip, worrying over it. In the end, she knew Trey''s health came first.


    He had sent her away on purpose, which meant he was up to something he did not want her to see.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline could not care less about the drama. She was just scared Trey might not hold up.


    So, she made up her mind to tail Trey''s car. She kept her eyes glued to his every move, ready to swoop in if things went south.


    The two cars raced to the hillside vi where Walter and Minnie were holed up.


    Meanwhile, back at the Foster family''s old ce, Yale was pacing. He had heard from Cole that Evangeline had headed over to the Gordons, but she had not checked in. Knowing how close she was with the Gordons, he was on edge.


    He grabbed an excuse to bolt out the door and took his bodyguards to camp out at the Gordons ce, waiting to pick her up.


    He caught the tail end of the two cars peeling out.


    Worried about Evangeline''s safety, Yale and his men followed suit.


    In the master bedroom of the vi...


    Minnie was a sight to behold, her clothes slipping off to reveal a cleavage that seemed to say ''touch me It was the kind of view that made a man want to lose control, to leap at her and devour her whole.


    Walter, though, was having a tough time. Despite the eye candy, he was a bundle of nerves.


    When he saw another woman''s body, Walter realized that nobody could spark a thing in him the way Evangeline did. He could not even fake a scene with Minnie.


    If only he had known, he would have sipped less of that doctored red wine, just enough to y along with the drama. He could have taken advantage of her lovestruck confusion to get some information out of her. At least then he would not feel like he was wasting his good looks for nothing!


    He was aware, after all, that Minnie had slipped something into the wine she handed him. In fact, he had seen her spike it with his own eyes. During dinner, he had discreetly dumped the wine onto a napkin when no one was looking. "Walter, why... aren''t youing over?"


    Minnie''s eyes were red and teary, her face a mix of yful pout and allure, her every gesture oozing with a vibe that screamed trouble.


    Walter edged closer to the bed, though he was actually calcting how much force he would need to knock Minnie out cold without leaving her with a lingering neck ache.


    Once he figured it out, Walter sat down cautiously next to Minnie.


    As they drew nearer to each other, Minnie mistook his approach as a sign that the drug was taking hold. Her cheeks flushed with the anticipation of their imminent encounter, too shy to even meet his gaze. However, just as they were to go so


    pour


    The vis master bedroom door gave in to a poetul


    ander


    dinghiessen as to pure the min


    The noise was so overwhelming that the HA WA TAREA ASHING THAT HER HOM


    Trey, his face a mask of serousness, ay smsand way thenen we caught scrat the two on the bed in ayoma and go the way thing with sy


    "Walter, you''re in big trouble, body to gora hood que sange my yout


    In his fury, Trey forgot about his bed bugun retour there to catch him, saving ben troen a catty fa


    However, the biggest of the day was eared for Warr


    or


    without his care Luckily Themes was


    THE THE

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    Chapter 367


    "Grandpa, what are you doing here?"


    175*


    He had just turned down Trey''s Invitation toe bore that aftemoon How on earth did Trey find him so quickly?


    Minnie, caught in the middle of the grandpa grandson howdown, finally grasped the gornity of the situation. She let out a shriek and dove under the covers, trying to hide her semi exposed state However, it was toote.


    Evangeline, who had arrived a bitte to the scene, had already caught an eye through the gap between Thomas and Trey.


    "Grandpa, you..."


    She had watched Trey stagger out of the house, worged he was too frail, and had followed him upstairs. She was about to voice her concern when the scene in front of her struck her speechless. Trey spun as if he had been zapped, his face going from red-hot to ghostly pale at the sight of Evangeline.


    Caughtpletely off guard, he echoed Walter''s question.


    "Evie, what brings you here?"


    Evangeline gave a nervousugh. "I saw you heading out and got worried about you, so I came after you


    Her fingers quivered as she pointed toward the house. "Looks like I picked the wrong time to show up. 11 just go now!"


    Evangeline was ready to bolt, but Walter was on her heels in a sh.


    ""Wait a second!"


    He did not even notice that Minnie had purposely wrinkled his clothes. Driven by instinct, he caught up with Evangeline and grabbed her wrist tightly. "Evangeline, aren''t you going to say anything?"


    Seeing her husband in bed with another woman, all cozy and close... Should that not make Evangeline


    mad?


    He was ready to say sorry, to make things right with Evangeline, but if she did not react at all, who was he supposed to apologize to?


    "Am I supposed to say something? That''s your reaction?"


    Evangeline sounded unsure.


    Honestly, seeing Walter with someone else was a punch to the gut. However, she had steeled herself for that moment ever since she decided to let Walter go.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    She was f finally facing it, and the scene before her was not as shattering as she had feared.


    "Walter, I''ve never been through anything like this. Maybe you can show me, what am I supposed to feel?"


    Chapter dh


    #25 BONUS


    She was lost. She thought she should be angry, but given where they stood, anger seemed off.


    Walter''s emotions were all over the ce.


    Evangeline stared at his fierce look, puzzled about what he was really after.


    Just then, Trey hobbled out with his crutch in hand. Before Walter could even blink, Trey swung the crutch down hard on Walter''s leg. The hit was so powerful that Walter, a towering and muscr guy, stumbled and dropped to his knees. "Grandpal"


    Walter''s eyes popped wide open, shocked at the turn of events.


    Meanwhile, Minnie, who had been all charm and allure in bed, tempting Walter just moments ago, was cocooned in the nkets, her soft cries the only sound in the room.

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    Chapter 368


    Trey did not give a damn about Walter''s pride. He snatched Walter''s hand off Evangeline and took he hand in his own. "Evie, you know the score. Walter''s always been a troublemaker What was he even saying?


    Just because Walter was a troublemaker, he snuck off to see other women. Was Evangeline supposed to just forgive him?


    Was she missing something? She could not make heads or tails of Trey''s words.


    Trey went on, "Cole told me everything. You''re pregnant now, Evie. It''s not just you to think about. You''ve got to take extra care. And don''t worry about Walter the troublemaker, I''ve got him. I''ll make sure he makes it right for you today!"


    Evangeline was not surprised to hear about her pregnancy, that was old news. However, she was wondering about something else.


    Walter was Trey''s kin. What kind of exnation could he possibly offer?


    She figured it would probably just blow over like it always did.


    Honestly, she was past caring.


    "Grandpa, don''t worry about it, really. It''s nothing." Evangeline was not sure if her words carried any weight in front of Trey, but she meant them.


    Whoever Walter chose to be with was none of her business, so why was Trey causing such a scene, as if he had turned the Gordon family home upside down? Having said her piece, sticking around would just seem like she was there for the drama, and that would not be a good look


    "I''ll head back now," said Evangeline and made to leave, but Trey, catching the undertone of disappointment in her voice about Walter, and with their marriage still up in the air, panicked.


    He could not let her walk away. His frail but determined hands clung to Evangeline''s sleeve. ''Evie, don''t say that. You''re carrying our Gordon family''s future. We can''t let this troublemaker get his way. Just wait, I''ll teach him a lesson right now!"T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    With one hand on Evangeline''s sleeve and the other gripping his cane, Trey was ready to take a swing at


    Walter.


    "Grandpa, stop!" Evangeline pleaded, stuck in ce, unable to leave or intervene, fearing she might identally cause the old man to take a fall.


    As she grappled with the situation, a mocking male voice suddenly cut through from the doorway. "I was wondering why you were all holed up in here for so long, what''s the big secret? Looks like the grandpa- grandson duo have put my niece in a real bind!" Evangeline knew instantly who it was from the sound alone.


    Thatid-back drawl could only belong to one person: Uncle Holden, the family''s notorious chatterbox and busybody.


    "Uncle Holden, what brings you here?" Chipter 36


    This turned out to be a weirdly eventful day.


    It started with Walter and Minnie''s scandalous affair, followed by her and Trey''s attempt to catch the cheaters in the act. Then, her uncles had shown up-more than one, no less.


    An Evangeline nced over at Holden, Yale finally strolled in, his footsteps deliberate and firm, stopping right in front of Trey.


    With no one else following behind him, Evangeline realized that today''s drama only involved Yale and Holden, and she quickly focused on Yale.

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    Chapter 369


    "Good day. Mr. Gordon Yale greeted Trey with a bow that was all politeness. However, the iciness in his voice was unmistakable to everyone there


    Yale was Evangeline''s uncle, and as the head of the Foster family, he had just called Trey Mr. Gordon, making the family ties-or theck thereof-abundantly clear The polite words were just a product of good breeding


    Trey was no stranger to reading between the lines, and he got the message loud and clear. His face turned a shade of dark that was downright scaryT��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline had never seen Trey look so grim. However, with her uncles around, it was not her ce to say a word


    Trey stood there, getting the stink-eye from the other side, but he remainedposed and stayed polite. He felt stuck, in a way, not sure what to say next


    Yale could not stand to see the old guy squirm.


    nced around the room, where secrets seemed to be tumbling out like sunlight in spring, and said, Funny how today''s mess has got both our families, the Fosters and the Gordons, all tangled up."


    Then he zeroed in on Trey, who was still gripping Evangeline''s sleeve. "The Gordons have really stepped in it this time, Mr. Gordon. Time to let go of our Evie, don''t you think?


    "Look, we all want Evie and Walter to be happy, right? But can''t you see? The trouble in paradise isn''t Evie''s fault. If you really want to fix things, you better start looking for a real solution."


    With that, Yale gently peeled Evangeline''s sleeve from Trey''s grasp.


    "The Foster girl will always have a home with us. If the Gordons can''t see what they''ve got, that''s on them. However, Evangeline is our princess, always. If she''s not getting the love she deserves with you, I''m taking her back. Take care of yourself, Mr. Gordon "Evie, let''s head out," said Yale, his firm grip pulling Evangeline back to reality and away from the mess.


    Evangeline''s head had been spinning ever since she caught Walter and Minnie tangled up in the sheets. It took Yale''s tug on her arm to snap her out of her daze.


    She let out a deep sigh. She turned to leave, she could not help but shoot Walter a look of pity.


    They were both nearly divorced, and Walter had been pent up for so long, it was understandable he would want a fling.


    However, did he have to cause such a scene?


    If her uncles had not shown up, she and Trey could have smoothed things over, instead of making a mountain into a molehill. It would not have been a big deal. However, with Yale''s arrival, the whole mess was blown out of proportion. There was no downying it then


    Holden watched Yale lead Evangeline away, then gave Walter a lingering, scornful nce.


    Waiter was a mess. His hair was tousled, his face pale and his clothes askew. He looked downright pantul


    The thought of what Walter had done made Holden''s stomach tum his beloved niece was canying Walter''s child, and for Waiter to act that way was unfooyable No, he was not even worthy of being called a man


    Hoiden had never wanted to take over the Foster family business, so he did not hold back his feelings.


    He thought the Gordons were repulsive, and he did not hide his disgust..

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    Chapter 370This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    "Ahem!"


    Holden cleared his throat, turned, and without a second thought, spat right in Walter''s face.


    As he walked away, he muttered under his breath, "What a loser."


    Holden picked up the pace, eager to catch up with Yale and Evangeline.


    Evangeline sat in the front passenger seat of Yale''s armored limo, a spot he had picked out for her.


    In the back, Holden was still steaming, grumbling non-stop. "Evie, you have to listen to me this time. What''s Walter even worth? After turning his back on us, we can''t have anything to do with him! And the baby you''re carrying? Just have it in peace, and it''ll have the Foster name. After what Walter did, I can''t believe that Gordon guy has the nerve to fight us for the kid!"


    Holden was so full of righteous anger that Evangeling felt the urge to calm him. She did not want her family getting all worked up over her problems, especially not to the point of regret. "Uncle, don''t get so mad about him. Think about it differently. Walter and I are splitting up, and him finding a new girlfriend beforehand is pretty normal, right?


    "And about that story I told Cole, about Walter and me patching things up... Whether it was true or not, outsiders might not know, but you do, right? There''s no point in fussing over it now."


    However, Evangeline had underestimated just how fiercely protective her uncle could be. Holden was still fuming. "No way! If anyone dares to mess with a Foster girl, I might not speak for the rest, but I, Holden, will make sure he regrets it! His eyes zed with determination, like twin des aimed at Walter''s vi.


    Then, as if a light bulb went off, he turned to her and asked, "What''s gotten into you today? Why are you defending him?"


    Evangeline was at a loss for words


    Holden was as stubborn as a mule, and trying to talk sense into him was like talking to a brick wall. It could even backfire and get him more riled up.


    So, keeping quiet was usually the smart move


    However, Yale, who had beenser-focused on the road without uttering a word since we had hit the road, suddenly chuckled.


    "Holden, when are you going to cool it with that hair-trigger temper of yours? Evie wasn''t taking Walter''s side. She''s worried about you, dude. That jerk isn''t worth your health."


    Holden''s face turned a shade of red, and he let out an awkwardugh. "Man, I just lose my head sometimes. Good thing my niece has my back!"


    With the tension easing, Evangeline seized the moment to voice her burning question. "Uncle Yale, how on earth did you and Uncle Holden show up out of the blue?"


    She was baffled because Walter''s hideout was basically unknown. She had not even heard of the ce, much less been there. Somehow, Yale had tracked them down like a pro. Holden shot Evangeline a look and cut in, "We came because we were worried about you, obviously.


    The Tuan te p mu me en TOUTE AND WE


    anes is when we got the Ground we cooter outing Trays We figured something was un and called you on the town-ow


    ngines from thought? She taper de vas Day

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    Chapter 371


    *Grandpa Cole must be worried sick by now..."


    Evangeline had been away from home for so long that she could not help but think that Cole must be beside himself with worry.


    Holden gave her shoulder a reassuring pat. "Rx, Evie. Yale and I had Informed him you were safe as soon as we found you. He''s at home right now, waiting for you toe back." The thought of going home made Evangeline''s recently calmed heart race again.


    She could not possibly tell Cole the truth about today''s chaos, and even though she had braced herself for Walter''s betrayal with Minnie, it still stung when it happened.


    Facing Cole with all those tangled feelings would only make him worry, would it not?


    "Um... Uncle Yale, could you drop me off at Emerald of the Hignds instead? I... I''m not ready to face Grandpa Cole just yet."


    It was not that she did not want to see him. She just did not know how to exin everything without Cole seeing right through her.


    Holden was immediately against the idea. "Evie, after searching for you all this time, how can you even think of noting back with us?"


    "..." Evangeline''s mouth opened and closed without a sound, and as she looked back, she saw Yale''s disappointed expression. She could not bring herself to voice her inner turmoil.


    After how Walter had treated her, she was still letting it affect her mood to the point of avoiding Cole... Confessing that to her uncles, who were so protective of her, would only break their hearts.


    "Uncle Yale, what do you think?" Feeling trapped, she turned to Yale, hoping he would have the answer. Yale, the oldest and by far the most level-headed of his siblings, always had a knack for giving the best


    advice.


    Evangeline was sure that Yale could grasp the turmoil swirling in her heart and offer the guidance she desperately needed.


    Behind the wheel, Yale caught a glimpse of his younger brother in the rearview mirror-annoyed, downcast, yet looking at him with eyes full of hope. "Look, Evie," Yale said, his voice as steady as if he were discussing the weather instead of her personal drama, "you should go see your grandpa." "Why?" Evangeline blurted, her surprise unmasked.


    Yale was smart enough to read her mind. Why would he suggest something like that?


    Yale''s sigh was trapped in his throat, his eyes never leaving the road ahead, but a shadow of doubt flickered in his dark gaze.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "One teleads to another, and before you know it, you buried under a mountain of the


    of


    His words were a whisper, trailing off, ike a stone causing ripples across the surface of Evangeline''s


    heart


    She did not need him to say more. She got the message


    "But I''m scared


    She was scared of losing control, scared of Cole''s piercing eyes, scared that all her efforts would end up being for nothing. There was one thing she was certain. If anything happened to Cole because of her issues with Walter, would never forgive herself "Don''t be scared, Evie. This is the burden you have to face," said Yale with conviction.


    "We all have to face the consequences of our choices Just do your best to make things right, and after that whatever happens, happens." Yale knew his dad, Cole, better than anyone. He had been by his side the longest

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    Chapter 372


    If Cole had not been weighed down by age and sickness, he would have seen right through Evangeline and Walter''s petty schemes in a heartbeat.


    Yale had to admit, he was seeing Cole''s smarts in a while new light.


    However, Cole was no rookle. His mind might get foggy, but he was not totally out of it.


    One thing was crystal clear to Yale: If Evangeline did not show up immediately, Cole''s imagination would run wild.


    The mess unfolding before them would not hold up under the slightest poke. If Cole got wind of Walter chasing skirts while Evangeline was expecting, it would probably send him to an early grave. Thus, Yale nudged Evangeline to head home.


    Then again...


    "Evie, you''re your own person now. We can''t call the shots for you. Just say the word, and I''ll get you wherever you need to go..


    "We''ve got a half-hour till the fork in the road. No pressure-just think it over..."


    Yale fell silent. Holden, sharp as ever, caught on to their drift without another word.


    Evangeline''s gaze drifted to the blur of streets zipping by, sinking into a sea of thoughts.


    Should she... make the trip back? Could she keep up the charade of a happy marriage with Walter?


    While the car was a bubble of quiet, Walter''s ce was a circus-screams, groans, curses, and gasps all shing in a wild ruckus.


    In the master bedroom, Walter stood stiff as a board, his proud head lowered in a way it never had before.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Trey sat ramrod straight in his chair, a storm brewing in his eyes. Thomas, hands sped behind him, stood guard, his face a mask of mixed emotions as he watched the drama unfold. The other bodyguards hung back, silent as shadows, careful not to breathe too loudly and fan the mes of their boss''s wrath.


    "Walter, is there... anything you want to say?"


    Trey lifted the cane, its surface bristling with thick spikes. However, his strength faltered, and he had to stop the punishment he was doling out to his grandson. Gasping for breath, he seized the moment to ask in a deep, heavy voice.


    The contrast between the two was stark: One strong, the other vulnerable.


    It would have been easy for Walter to turn the tables, even with Trey''s cane looming over him.


    However, he did not.


    By some twist of fate, he merely followed Minnie to the vi to check things out, only to be the spectacle for a crowd.


    His reclusive grandfather had shown up unexpectedly. Even Evangeline and her uncles were there, seeing everything with crystal rity.


    126 BONUS


    He had no real intentions toward Minnie, sitting on the bed was just to appease her. He had no inappropriate thoughts about that woman at all, so how could he possibly do something that would betray Evangeline?


    However, as the family elders converged, and Evangeline, the supposed victim, arrived, they caught him and Minnie ''red-handed'' in bed. He was used without a chance to exin.


    "There''s nothing to say, Grandpa. If you want to hit me, go ahead." Walter''s lips were a tight line, his face. set in a cold mask as if he was not the one about to take the blows.


    He was not invincible, of course. It was going to hurt. However, all Walter could think about was Evangeline''s careless expression as she walked away.


    If she did not care, why should he bother exining?


    "Fantastic!" Trey bellowed, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he spat out what sounded like apliment.


    GET IT NOW


    The end of a chej umers sched

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 373

    A care as if i had Huseva, aliph Water & Kerk with Buce My start aready trained to set for nged, revmating the new paint was beneath


    The orwa paistva puta alot was then noted with rede by delicate flowery of perhaps like drops of


    datera fahing meeting a pattern of statere drops


    Water back was on fire, but that pen was tang cared to the che in his heart.


    nothing chai


    Just me, then He yelled defiantly at Trey, as if he had nothing left to lose


    Deep down, he thought it would be better to die at his grandfather''s hand than to face the humiliation of divorcing Evangeler


    There was saying no? No matter how many years they had been together, if they did not have that divorce certificate, they were together for life. atoProperty ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "What are you trying to say? Trey, having used all his strength in thatst hit, took a moment to catch his breath before he could speak again


    "Walter, do you think Fd hesitate to beat you to death? Or do you think I''m an old man with energy to waste, hitting you for my own amusement? Walter clenched his jaw, silent


    Frustrated by theck of response, Treys anger red up again, and he reached for Thomas, who was


    standing nearby


    "Thomas, your turn!"


    Thomas froze for a second, but when Trey handed him the cane, he realized what was expected of him. "Mr. Gordon, what''s going on here?


    Trey did not wait for an answer. He shoved the cane into Thomas hands as if passing a baton in a ry


    "I''m too old for this, you do the honors! Keep swinging until I tell you to stop. Let''s see how long he can keep up his tough guy act!


    Trey was at his wit''s end with that troublemaker!


    They were busted, in and simple. Evangeline had seen everything, and there was no way to sugarcoat


    All that, and Walter had the gall to stand there, all defiant, without a single word of regret!


    Thomas, with his linebacker build, could pack a punch that Trey could only dream of


    "But..." Thomas hesitated. What if he hurt the Gordon family''s golden boy? What if the old man and the kid patched things upter? He would be the bad guy then. Thomas was torn, unsure of what to do.


    Meanwhile, Minnie had seen it all from the bed. She had hoped to trap Walter, to make a done deal out of a night together, securing her future with the Gordon family''s heir. However, Trey''s surprise visit threw a wrench in her ns. Being called a temptress before she even stepped foot into the Gordon household did not scare Minne What scared her was the thought that her scheme with Walter might crumble before it even began.


    Then, caught in the act, all her plotting would be for nothing. Walter could not possibly own up to it then could he?


    When Evangeline walked in, the game changed yet again.


    Her shriek snagged Evangeline''s gaze, and with a swift flick, she popped open a few buttons, giving a peek of her curves. She then mussed up her hair beneath the covers, making it look like she and Walter were in the middle of a steamy moment. Too bad for Minnie, Evangeline did not even bat an eysh at the sight, and she actually tried to get her uncle to leave the lovebirds alone.


    n A was a bust for Minnie, but she was already cooking up a n B.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 374

    Chapter 374


    With Evangeline not biting, Minnie turned her scheming eyes toward Trey.


    She silently watched like a hawk, just waiting for Trey to drop a golden chance into herp.


    The moment she saw Thomas wavering with his cane, she knew it was go-time. "Stop the beating!"


    Minnie''s shout rang through the air. Without a care for her disheveled dress, she lunged onto Walter''s back, acting like a human shield, while sobbing her heart out, "Mr. Gordon, it''s all on me. Please, stop hitting Walter!" Trey, staring at that whirlwind of a woman, could only kick himself for being so forgetful.


    Walter was caught red-handed with ady, so was not she just as guilty? How did he end up grilling his grandson and forgetting about the girl entirely?


    Thomas, already in a bind with Trey pushing him to take action, found him out with the wild-haired woman''s sudden entrance..This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    He nced at Trey, his voice a mix of relief and hesitation. "Mr. Gordon, what about this...?"


    With a dismissive gesture, Trey signaled Thomas to drop the cane.


    After catching Trey''s eye signal, Thomas set his cane aside and stepped closer to the woman, his voice low and serious. "Miss, the boss has some questions for you. Turn around and let''s hear your answer!" Minnie, who had been scared stiff at the thought of that caneing down on her, saw Thomas'' words


    ''as a ray of hope.


    She turned around, tears that had been brimming in her eyes then spilling over. Her voice quivered as if she were about to cry. "Mr. Gordon, go ahead and ask me anything."


    She dabbed at her eyes while she spoke. Her small figure was hunched over, hidden under crumpled clothes, her pale face downcast. She did not even look up as she spoke, the picture of misery.


    That was all part of Minnie''s n.


    Her thing with


    er was not exactly on the up-and-up, and if she wanted a real shot at bing Gordon, she needed to get on Trey''s good side.


    al


    Trey was old and distinguished, a man who had seen it all. To win him over, ying the damsel in distress was key. If she could just make him feel sorry for her, she would be halfway through the door of the Gordon family! Minnie was spot-on about people. Trey''s anger melted away when he saw her like that. There he was, an old man, about to speak, and he had already made a young girl cry. This felt like picking on a kid, no? "Whose daughter are you?" Trey peered at her, but her head was bowed so low that he could not make out her face, so he had to ask.


    The Gordons were like towering oaks in Avalon City, with roots running deep and connections spreading far and wide. If she were anybody in Avalon City, he would think twice before crossing them, out of Chapter 324


    respect if nothing else.


    Minnie was tugging at Walter''s sleeve, her breathsing in ragged sobs, yet she avoided answering Trey''s question.


    "Mr. Gordon, are you going to keep hitting Walter? If you must hit someone, hit me first. It''s all my fault, Walter''s innocent...


    Her voice grew more and more wretched, her eyes pleading for mercy.


    However, what Trey did not realize was that her distressed act was just that-an act. She was ying a part to make Trey believe she was all in for Walter.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 375

    Chapter 375


    Did she really not know? It did not matter how one joined the family. The moment there''s a baby on the way, all the old scandals and disgraces would be forgotten at the sight of a new great-grandchild. What she had not counted on was that Evangeline was already expecting Walter''s baby


    Thatplicated things, but she would handle Trey first.


    "Walter is my grandson, and I''ll decide if he needs to be disciplined. Now, answer my question," Trey


    demanded.


    Since the rise of Gordon Group, Trey was used to getting answers whenever he asked. Thus, this girl''s silence was a bold move, indeed.


    Even so, even though his authority was being challenged, Trey could not muster up any anger when he looked at her face-a face that stirred a sense ofpassion.


    After all, she looked so much like Julia, Evangeline''s half-sister, sharing the same father but born to a different mother.


    Walter''s back was a map of scars, and Trey finally understood. His grandson would rather face the wrath of a thousand storms than admit he was wrong, especially if it was for her sake. He knew all about the drama that had gone down between Julia and Walter.


    Lost in thought, Trey barely noticed Minnie as she nervously started to introduce herself. "I''m Minnie, the student your grandson Alex brought back from overseas..."


    Her voice was barely a whisper when suddenly, it was cut off by a more assertive one.


    "Don''t bother exining. Grandpa, if you''re mad, take it out on me!" Walter spun around, locking eyes with Trey, ready to stand his ground.


    Truth be told, without Evangeline''s judgment hanging over him, the whole scandal with Minnie did not seem to matter anymore. She was never the main event in that twisted tale Grandpa Trry knew she did not make a difference.


    However, when Walter faced her, Minnie could not help buttch onto his arm, her voice shaking as she cried out, "No way, you''re already hurt! What if they break you for good?" Her words were soaked in worry, and her tears started to fall all over again.


    "Mr. Gordon, please, I''m begging you-don''t hurt Walter..."


    To Trey, their disy was like watching a cheesy romance unfold right before his eyes


    He remembered Minnie''s earlier words.


    "So, Miss Minnie, you''re the student my grandson Alex is mentoring, huh?"


    Minnie nodded frantically, eager to spill her whole life story if it meant keeping Trey''s attention. After all, the more he seemed to care, the more she knew she had made an impression.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In the days toe, she knew that with a bit more attention paid to the old man and his grandson, she


    would have them wrapped around her finger in no time


    "Well then, you''re practically family now. Come on, let''s head back to Gordons ce together.


    Trey could not shake the feeling that the woman who had popped up out of nowhere by Walter''s side was up to no good.


    Walter had been blinded by her looks, but Trey was not fooled. He was determined to uncover her true agenda!


    Besides, it looked bad to discipline his grandson in public. Private affairs should be washed at home, and there would be plenty of time to straighten Walter out once they got back to the Gordons residence. The whole entourage made a grand entrance back at the Gordon family''s old house. Aria, catching sight of the terrible wounds and blood on her son, felt her heart twist in pain.


    "Oh, Walter, what on earth happened to you?! How did you get hurt just by stepping out?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 376

    Chapter 376This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Aria was beside herself with worry, frantically instructing the servants to call a doctor to tend to Walter''s Injuries. It was only then that she noticed Troy, looking grim, and a woman who bore a striking resemnce to her soon-to-be daughter-inw, Julio. She froze, taken aback.


    After years of navigating the Gordon family''s waters, her instincts told her something big had gone down. Nheless, no matter what had happened, she could not just stand by while her precious son was Injured.


    With fury in her eyes, she spun to confront the bodyguards. "Who''s in charge here?"


    Thomas stepped up immediately. "Ma''am, how can I assist you?"


    Thomas was supposed to take orders from Trey alone, but he answered Aria just to keep up appearances for Trey''s sake.


    Too bad Aria did not get the memo.


    She never bothered with the details about her own security team and did not even recognize Thomas, who seemed to havee out of nowhere. All she did was let out her fury.


    "What kind of protection are you guys offering? My son''s been roughed up, and not one of you has a scratch! Did the Gordon family hire you just to loaf around?"


    The truth was, Walter''s injury had nothing to do with the bodyguards.


    Thomas caught a quick look from Trey and made up his mind to take the fall to preserve Trey''s authority in the household.


    "I''m sorry, Ma''am, we failed to protect him properly..."


    However, Aria was not having any of it. "My son''s been through hell, and you think an apology for poor protection cuts it?"


    Right then, Trey mmed his cane down with a loud thud and bellowed.


    "Everyone, just zip it!


    "Aria, I''m the one who gave your son those bruises, with this!"


    Trey waved his cane with spikes. "You''ve got a bone to pick, youe to me!"


    He had not nned on saying a word.


    Wallesi


    always been headstrong, never backing down until he hit rock bottom.


    With Minnie looking so much like Julia, Trey was at a loss on how to get Walter toe around andmit to a peaceful life with Evangeline.


    Moreover, Aria was giving Thomas a hard time!


    Thomas had gone through a lot to be there, yet he got an earful for his trouble. How was he supposed to exin that mess to his grandfather without feeling like a total letdown?


    Aria knew better than to pick a fight with Trey. She lost her edge the moment she faced him, her confidence slipping away. She stood before Trey respectfully, her voice trembling with caution as she spoke.


    "Dad, I was just worried, you know? Please don''t be mad at me. Walter''s your grandson, and you have every right to discipline him. I wouldn''t dream of objecting. I''m just concerned that he might have had a rough time outside, and that the bodyguards weren''t looking out for him as they should have..."


    Aria let out a small, nervousugh before turning to Walter, who was pale as a ghost.


    "Come o


    on, spill it. What did you do to make Grandpa so mad? Apologize, and make it quick!"


    Walter''s back was a map of bruises from the cane. At first, the pain was just a dull throb he could handle, but as the beating went on, the pain red up, feeling like his skin was on fire with chili burn.


    "Mom, it''s okay. Let Grandpa do what he needs to," Walter managed to say, the words barely a whisper, as if he was pleading for an end to the ordeal.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 377

    Chacter 377


    Winnie''s heart ached as she clutched Walter''s arm tighter when she heard him.


    Walter, tak to me. Are you alright?


    She looked at his pale face. Without a second thought, she ced her hand on his forehead right there in front of Troy, Ada and all the bodyguards.


    Chind you''re buming up! Walter, you''ve got a fever"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Minnie scunded concamed her eyes brimming with tears and a touch of panic


    Walter''s got a faver Didn''t you call the doctor? Where are they?


    Ja whole future of living in luxury during her golden years hinged on her only son, Walter. The thought of anything henting to him was more than she could stand. Just then, a servant rushed in with the doctor.


    Ana did not even stce to ask Trey what had happened. She went straight into begging for mercy.


    Zad whatever Walter''s done, he''s your grandson, Please, let him be treated first. Once he''s better, you can punish him any way you see fit, and I won''t say a word against it!" Please Mr. Gordon, Walters health is the most important thing right now!" Minnie added her pleas to


    7807


    They said it took a group of women to really stir things up, and at that moment, those two were putting on quite the tearjerker enough to give Trey a headache. However, deep down, he had a soft spot for his grandson. Looking at Walter''s ashen face, his anger melted into a deep sigh, and he left the room with Thomas'' help. After the doctor had swiftly bandaged Walter''s wounds, he left the room.


    Ara remained by her son''s bedside, crying her eyes out


    "Walter you have to tell me what you did to make Grandpa so mad."


    Ana nad navigated the treacherous waters of the Gordon family for years, and she would not havested


    if she was not sharp She had seen enough to make an educated guess about the drama that had unfolded between that mysterious woman and her son.


    However, she needed to hear the truth straight from Walter to believe it.


    7. Walter was face down on the bed, shocked that his mother''s first concern, even after seeing his injuries, was that scandal However, that scandal


    ''I can''t tell you."


    Walter and Minnie were busted by Trey, red-handed and embarrassed. The whole scene, Evangeline included, was out in the open for everyone to see. What was the point in trying to exin then? 1/2


    What Walter did not get was that Aria was not hung up on whatever blunder he had made. She gently tapped his hand and said, "At this point, the mistake you''ve made doesn''t matter anymore." "Then what does matter?" Walter blurted, confused. He had always thought he needed to know his slip-ups to fix them. However, his mother was acting like messing up was no big deal. What was up with that? He looked up, straight into Aria''s eyes, which were filled with a serious message.


    "Oh, kiddo, the real deal is that Grandpa is ticked off. Got it?


    "Look, you''re running Gordon Group now, but until you''re sitting in the big chair, your spot''s shaky. Grandpa is not getting any younger, and who knows how much time he''s got left? Why''d you have to go and rile him up? "Just so you know, you better find a way to sweet-talk Grandpa, or you and I are going to have words!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 378

    Chapter 378


    The moment A started talking, Walter sensed what she was really after. He was stunned. "Mom, you realize I''m injured, right?"


    Aria gave him an eye roll, "Yeah, I know you''re hurt, and Grandpa did it to you. Now''s your chance to milk it a little, y the sympathy card with him. He''s getting soft in his old age, and he''ll probably forget this whole mess before you know it!"


    As she thought about It, Aria felt a ranting on. She let out a sigh, then said with a hint of annoyance, Walter, I''m not trying to call you out, but you''re usually so sharp. How could you mess up like this when it really counts? You and that girl outside, you guys have something special, don''t you?


    "Grandpa just found out Evie''s expecting. Even if you''re head over heels for her, you''ve got to keep it under wraps, right? And of all times, why now? Grandpa is over the moon about meeting his great-grandkid. Aren''t you making things awkward for him?" The questions hit Walter like a st of icy wind.


    In a sh, he felt a chill that not even the heat on his back could chase away.


    "Mom, just stop!" Walter cut Aria off without a second thought.


    Everything he had seen and heard had sunk in, but he could not-would not-believe it.


    Aria, her pride stung by the interruption,shed out in a fury, "Look at you. I''m saying all this because care, because I''m looking out for you!"


    "Looking out for me?" Walter almostughed, a fiery re in his dark eyes. "Sure, you''re looking out for me. Or maybe it''s more about looking out for yourself!


    "Are you just upset because you think you''ve ticked off Grandpa? Worried that the Gordon family fortune might slip through your fingers, and you won''t get to live the high life anymore?


    "Here''s a tip, Mom-the Gordons aren''t idiots. If that''s what you''re thinking, keep it to yourself. Otherwise, you might end up with nothing-trying to outsmart everyone and losing everything instead."Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Aria''s true concerns were exposed. Her face went white, but just as quickly, it turned stormy.


    "What are you even talking about, kiddo? If I''m worried about the Gordon family''s fortune, who do you think it''s for? It''s all for you, you little troublemaker! If you hadn''t gone around making a mess and ticking off your grandfather, we wouldn''t be in this mess, would we?"


    "I don''t need you butting in, even if I am a troublemaker! If the Gordon family''s fortune means more to your than your own flesh and blood, then go ahead and ask Grandpa for the inheritance yourself. Why bother having a son at all?"


    The argument between mother and son was explosive


    Aria stormed off. The furious Waltery on his bed, panting heavily.


    He had always believed his mother was the only warmth he had in the Gordon family. He realized he had been fooling himself, and that warmth had never been there at all.


    Walter''s gaze was hollow, and he was at a loss for words.


    VAA


    He could not even decide whether to cry or to


    Unbeknownst to them, the news of Walter and Aria''s fiery exchange spread like wildfire, and it was or long before Minnie got wind of it.


    Arin was a woman of experience, with a keen mind.


    After Walter retreated to his room to tend to his wounds, she had Minnie settled into the quest room and made sure the servants provided her with clothes.


    She understood that Aria''s hospitality was not out of affection for her. It was to avoid any sandalov rumors that might arise from her and Walter being seen together, which could tarnish both Walter''s and the Gordon family''s reputation,

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 379

    Chapter 379


    Thus, while facered that Minne was being well taken care of the real goal was to keep her away from


    Water


    Ana''s trick was pretty slick, especially since Minnie had never set foot in the Gordon family''s old house


    Too bad for Ana, Minnie was not just any gin She was julia, Evangeline''s half-sister, and she knew the Die Gordon ce like the back of her hand


    Water had just been roughed up by Tray and had a blowout with Aria. He was in a foul mood, the kind where he just needed someone to tell him it was goingto be okay Minnie was not officially Walters woman yer, and then left her feeling all kinds of nervous


    With that, she was pulling out all the stops to win Waiter over to up her odds in that high-stakes game of


    Dressed in free clothes thanks to Aras medding Minnie asked a couple of servants where Walter hung


    ihat politely, and then made a beeline for his room


    Jarding outside Walters door, Minnie waited, peening through the crack that Ana had not bothered to pose, trying to gauge the mood inside


    However, it was werdy quer Too quiet even


    Oh, no. What if Walter was out cold, knocked out by a fit of rage from his mom?


    That thought was enough for Minnie. She could not wait another second, flung the door open, and barged


    Walter was lost in his own world, but when he caught sight of a shadow, he locked eyes with Minnie and herlock of concern, and asked, totally baffled, "What are you doing here?


    The Gordon family''s mansion was abyrinth of rooms and corridors Minnie, on her first visit, navigated straight to the room he would share with Evangeline?


    That seemed impossible. Water''s eyes narrowed, a glint of suspicion flickering through them.


    Minnie could not have managed that on her own, but for Julia, a regr visitor, it would be a piece of


    was worried about you, so I came to check on your Minnie''s voice wavered, her eyes, red and puffy, led with tears as she slowly sat beside Walter''s bed. Her gaze was heavy with concem. Womed about me? Getting beaten up isn''t exactly new to me." Walter let out a scornful chuckle, his expression one of sheer contempt


    He still could not fathom what he had gained from the beating he had endured. However, if it exposed Minnie''s true colors, perhaps it was not in vain.


    Tm worned about your injuries, and how you''re feeling. The servants told me you had a fight with your


    mom


    A shadow passed over Walter''s dark eyes, a flicker of sadness breaking through.


    Minnie, a stranger, showed concern for his well-being, while his own mother seemed to care only about her status and wealth in the Gordon family...


    Was he supposed to be angry or just disappointed?


    "It''s a regr urrence. Don''t fuss over it."


    Despite his words, Walter knew better than to air his private affairs. He brushed it off. "You''re something else, though. First time here and you''ve already found my room? This ce is huge, you know? He


    e stressed the word ''huge'' as he stared at Minnie, watching for any telltale reaction.


    He only noticed then that Minnie had slipped into a different outfit.


    The pale pink dress with long sleeves was perfect for the fall weather, and it somehow made Minnie loo even more adorable.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 380

    Chapter 380


    What Walter did not realize was that Minnie, though clueless about his little test, had done her research to keep her true identity a secret.


    "I''m not that incredible."


    Her cheeks flushed with a shy pink as she confessed. Theard about the fight with your mom, and I was super worried. I had to ask a bunch of the house staff before I finally found your room." She was determined to protect her identity as Minnie if she was going to share a life with Walter


    However, that was just for the time being. Once she had his heart securely in her hands, there would be no need for all that sneaking around.


    "Hmm, pretty clever." Walter gave a nomittal hum, a half-hearted praise, before he ventured a question, "Which room did my mom set you up in? Is it far from here? You must be tired from searching for me.


    He feigned concern, and it worked like a charm. He saw the flicker of emotion in Minnie''s eyes


    "It''s not bad, not too far."


    She could not really admit it was fair in a situation like that, could she? That would just show she did not get it.


    That was what Minnie was thinking when she noticed Walter''s dry lips. "You look thirsty. Let me grab you a ss of water."


    Walter''s eyes followed Minnie as she walked away, his look filled with mixed feelings.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    If Evangeline were the one bringing him water, he would be over the moon. s, it seemed like he did not


    matter to her at all...


    After taking a sip of the water Minnie gave him, Walter suddenly asked,


    "Ms. Kast, if you messed up and nobody else cared, would you bother exining?"


    "A mistake nobody cares about?" Minnie echoed, her brow furrowed in confusion. She repeated Walter''s question to herself, finally grasping his meaning. She sank into deep thought


    She rubbed her chin, pondering for a moment before responding with earnest conviction, "If no one else gives a hoot, then whether it''s right or wrong, I say let it go like a leaf in the wind." Walter''s eyes sparkled with uncertainty.


    *So, you''re saying just forget it ever happened? Don''t I even need to clear the air? I mean, I should at least clear my own conscience."


    "Why exin when it falls on deaf ears? Your innocence, Walter, it vanished the second they stopped trusting you.


    Minnie did not know the specifics of Walter''s dilemma, but her advice was true to her own style.


    Above all, she would not let anyone, man or woman, take up space in Walter''s heart. If she could get Walter to shrug off the issue, they would both be better off for it. Chapter 350


    Minnie''s words echoed in Walter''s ears, and after a while, he nodded, a thoughtful look on his face. "You might be onto something."


    Nheless, the image of Evangeline''s stoic face haunted him. Why did it make his heart ache?


    Walter was a man of high stature and immense pride, never one to waste time on trivial exnations However, an urge to justify himself gnawed at him.


    As a seasoned businessman, chasing sess was second nature to him, the very first lesson Trey had drilled into him since he was young.


    For once in his life, Walter did not want to y the numbers game, did not want to tally up what he would get out of it.


    Heid a hand over his heart, and just this once, he wanted to listen to it.


    Even if Evangeline did not hold a ce for him in her heart, even if she could not forgive him after he had exined everything, he would have no regrets.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 381

    Chapter 381


    At least he, Walter, had been true to his heart, his emotions crystal clear


    The night stretched on forever, and Walter had no clue when he had died of all he meets when he opened his eyes, daylight flooded in through the window


    He bounced back quickly, as young folks do. After a whole night of face nting into his CARE HOUS finally roll onto his side, a bit morefy


    As he wrestled with the sheets, a maid who had been sticking close to Trey nigrond say "We Mater Gordon, Mr. Trey Gordon sent me to let you know Mrs. Gordon ising You might wanna get restl Walter''s heart did a somersault.


    His Mrs. Gordon? That was Evangeline and no one else


    Was Evangeline reallying to see him?


    He rubbed his ear, his eyes wide as saucers.


    "You''re saying... who?"


    Evangeline... Why on earth would shee to see him?


    The maid could not help but chuckle at Walter''s dazed look. "It''s Mrs. Gondon, Evangeline from our own Gordon family. Who else? Mr. Gordon wouldn''t have sent me running if it wasn''t mooram. He als mentioned that spouses shouldn''t hold grudges overnight. A good talk can clear up any issue. You''re the smartest person around, so I''m sure you''ll get the gist of it


    Seeing Walter''s nk expression, the maid took charge "Just hang tight. Mr. Walter Gordon. I grab a towel to freshen you up."


    Even though Evangeline was family, Walter''s disheveled state was still a bit much


    Propped up against the pillow, Walter tried to sit up, a weak, pale smile on his lips


    Overnight grudges? The feud with Evangeline felt endless, and he had no clue where to start untangling


    Unbeknownst to them, that couple, always out of sync was finally hitting the same emotional note


    Evangeline, sitting next to Trey, was a mix of confusion and worry. Words failed to capture her feelings Deep down, she felt detached from Walter, believing life and death were ip fate''s hands, not something to


    fret over.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, to keep Cole from worrying, she ended up back at the Foster ce, thanks to Yales convincing


    She tried to y it cool with Cole''s concern, but her nerves betrayed her. Thankfully, Holden stepped in with a few words, and Cole''s suspicions were eased


    The reason she hade to the Gordon''s was wrapped up in one unspoken sentence.


    Holden, trying to exin away Evangeline''s gloom, had said to Cole about Walters ident. Cole jumped to the conclusion that Evangeline was worried sick about Walter, and that was why he had rushed her over to Gordon''s ce. +25 BOHUS


    However, facing Walter was another story. How could she confront the guy who stirred up such a storm of love and hate, hope and heartache in her?


    Trey had seen it all before. He could tell Evangeline was miles away in her thoughts.


    Whatever was eating at her, he chose to believe that Evangeline''s worry was all for Walter''s sake.


    "Evie, that knucklehead brought it on himself. I gave him a plece of my mind yesterday. Don''t lose sleep over him. You''ve got to look after yourself now, because you''ve got a little one on the way, you hear?"


    "I hear you, Grandpa," Evangeline murmured, her eyes downcast, her head bowed a little more to shield the storm of feelings inside.


    Despite Trey''s words, she had a mission toplete-seeing Walter. She had lingered long enough, and it was time to say goodbye.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 382

    Chapter 382


    The old Gordon family home had undergone some obvious changes


    Every hard corner had been cushioned with soft padding, and any dips or bumps in the floor had been evened out by skilled hands. No one had to tell Evangeline why. She knew those were all Trey''s doing, baby-proofing the ce for the little one she was carrying. Walking through the house, each alteration from her memories made her eyes well up with tears she fought to keep at bay.


    Evangeline had lost her mother at a young age, and with her father remarried, she never got to bask in the kind of love and attention she had craved. Sure, Cole and her uncles had showered her with affectionter on, but she could not rece a lost childhood. Seeing her own child receive such love had filled her with a deep sense of relief.


    She had heard rumors e that Walter was still bunking in their wedding suite, so she picked up the pace. When she walked in, she spotted a maid in the middle of wiping Walter''s face with a wet towel. The maid, caught off guard by Evangeline''s sudden entrance, clumsily pped the towel right over Walter''s nose. Walter, acting on reflex, jerked his head away.


    Realizing her blunder, the maid quickly removed the towel and gave a flustered curtsy. "Good day, Mrs. Gordon."


    Evangeline gave aposed nod and noticed Walter''s face was a bit red from the heat of the towel. "Til take over," she said, a hint of resignation in her voice.


    It was not really the maid''s fault. Evangeline''s surprise visit had spooked her, after all. However, seeing Walter''s chapped lips and the flush from the scalding towel, Evangeline''s heart softened.


    Well, they were both on their way out of each other''s lives. She would do what she could for him, and that was that.


    The maid ran off like a scared rabbit


    The water in the basin on the nightstand had cooled down after the littlemotion. Evangeline rinsed the towel, checked the temperature with a careful touch, and then sat beside the bed to gently wipe his face Walter maintained hisposure on the outside, but inside, he was reeling from the surprise.


    It felt like forever since Walter had seen Evangeline that way-so kind and wise, the picture of a perfect. partner and mother


    He noticed her face was a shade too pale, and it hit him. How could he have forgotten? Evangeline was pregnant with his child. He should not have her waiting on him hand and foot


    He reached out, his hand covering hers, halting her mid-wipe.


    However, she resisted


    "Stay still," she said, her voice soft but firm as she slipped away from his grasp. The towel continued its wat path across his face, then down to his hands.


    As she worked, Evangeline could not help but notice the bandages on Walter''s back, the blood seeping through hinting at the severity of the wounds beneath. "Grandpa really went too far this time. I can''t cover for you. Just focus on healing. And maybey off seeing Minnie until the divorce is final..."Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Her words were not fueled by jealousy or anger. Those feelings were meaningless at this point. She had to stay calm for the baby, for stability.


    Walter tensed at her words, and she quickly added, "You backed me up with that fib we told Grandpa Cole, but he actually bought it and passed it on to Grandpa Trey. So now, we have to keep up this lovey-dovey charade in front of the old folks.


    "I''m not saying you gotta call it quits with Minnie. Just be more discreet, okay? Don''t let every little thing blow up like it did this time. We got lucky the press didn''t catch wind of it, or both the Gordons and the Fosters would be in a world of trouble."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 383

    Chapter 383T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    When Evangeline saw Walter hurt, the ache that hit her heart was like a sucker punch-unexpected and impossible to shake off.


    She questioned herself, was she really nagging for Walter''s sake?


    However, then, she locked eyes with Walter''s, which were deep pools of smoldering anger.


    "Evangeline, is there anything else you''re dying to tell me?" asked Walter, disbelief etched across his face.


    He could not wrap his head around it. She was so gentle when she touched his face, so caring in every little thing she did for him. So why did her words sting like there was not a shred of softness in them? "Huh?" Evangeline blinked, her hand freezing mid-wipe. "Is there supposed to be something else?"


    What more could she possibly have to say to Walter at that point?


    Right then, the click-ck of high heels on the wooden floor outside grew louder and more insistent, step by step.


    Just as the footsteps stopped, the person they belonged to had already made it to their room. "Evangeline, what brings you here?"


    Minnie''s eyes widened in feigned surprise as she nced at Evangeline, but she did not take her seriously. With quick steps, she sidled up to Walter, all the while chattering away. "The servants told me this morning you were back, and I could barely believe it." Minnie acted as if she belonged there, and when she saw the towel in Evangeline''s hand and Walter''s right hand still mid-air, half-wiped, she knew exactly what was going on.


    Right in front of them, Minnie reached out to Evangeline. "Evangeline, let me do this. You''re pregnant, for heaven''s sake, with a belly that big. You shouldn''t be doing this kind of work."


    Evangeline''s lips twitched, but before she could say anything. Minnie grabbed the towel and started wiping Walter''s hand as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Evangeline stayed silent, watching the emotionless Walter, even as the air crackled with tension between Minnie and her.


    His indifference was more cutting than any words, deepening Evangeline''s sorrow. She made a silent vow to herself-if she bothered with Walter again, she would be less than human.


    As if on cue, Minnie twisted the knife, pouting, "Look at our Walter,pletely clueless about how to treat ady. At the end of the day, we women get each other, don''t we, Evangeline?"


    While they were talking, Minnie cleaned Walter''s hands until they were spotless. Her eyes sparkled with too much pride, making them look deeper and more meaningful. The slight upturn of her lips made her delight even more obvious.


    In that room, where there was no actual smoke or gunfire but the tension was thicker than on any battlefield, Minnie''s behavior was a clear challenge to Evangeline!


    However, Evangeline was not scared of a challenge.


    As the darling of the Foster family and Mrs. Gordon of the Gordon family, she had seen it all. What she


    had not expected was for Minnie, tough as a cockroad embarrassment at the birthday party!


    Chapter Stu

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 384

    Chapter 384


    Evangeline''s face lit up with a gorgeous smile as she rose from Walter''s bedside the crossed her arms and leaned casually against the wall, watching the two of them as if she were at the movies "Ms Kast, you say Walter''s name with such warmth. You two must be really close," she teased


    "Obviously," Minnie shot back.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Flirting was Minnie''s secret weapon against Evangeline it was also the source of her confidence that the would always outshine Evangeline and keep Walter''s affection


    With Evangeline''s snarkyment, how could Minnie not feel victorious?


    "That warmth is just part of the fun between husband and wife, Evangeline. For a powerhouse like you it''s okay not to understand these little things."


    Evangeline could easily read between the lines of Mignie''s words. To put it nicely, she was a powerhous To put it bluntly, she was clueless about romance!


    Minnie felt like the bright light was just there to spotlight her supposedck of excitement in the bedroom


    Evangeline gave a sharpugh and with a twinkle in her eye, she challenged, "So, Ms. Kast, when exactly did you tie the knot? If you''re not married, just how did you be an expert on the thrills of mamed 1 Without the shield of marriage, Minnie and Walter were at a disadvantage.


    Her pointed words left Minnie at a loss for words, her cheeks burning with frustration, but she was not


    about to back down.


    "You don''t need a ring to know about certain things... pleasures.


    "I get it now." Evangeline pretended to have an epiphany. "Ms. Kast, you''ve sampled the delights of marriage before actually walking down the aisle. No wonder you''re so worldly and ready to school me.


    "You might find me a bit chatty, but as someone who''s been around the block, I''d like to give you a heads-up: the Gordon family might not be too keen on ''pre-owned merchandise. If you''re serious about being with Walter for real, you might have to step up your game!" Minnie''s face turned stormy, clearly infuriated and humiliated.


    "Thanks for the heads-up, but you can save your breath. After all, who would want someone as unfeminine as you? Just hurry up and clear the way.


    Evangeline almostughed. She could not fathom where Minnie got the nerve to talk to her like that.


    In the rtionship department, she and Walter were legally wed. In the love department, she was pregnant with Walter''s baby.


    All that, and Minnie acted as if she had the upper hand.


    Evangeline shot a look at Walter, who had stayed quiet the whole time. Suddenly, it all made sense.


    Minnie''s boldness was all thanks to Walter''s backing.


    i


    12


    Chapt


    Even 90


    "Look, Miss Minnie, the thing sesawan Watter ww step in and wear yourself oof svar it


    "And just so you know, as always stayed out of your


    from overseas and might not get everything, Herdman ren myself."


    Evangeline''s words came out with a frown and the


    look around the room


    water


    It was all so familiar, just like when she left but everyninger offer


    Minnie, with a towel, tending to Walter looked ine Meyertes Evangeline felt like nothing more than an anasher Today''s Bonus offer

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 385

    Chapter 385


    As Evangeline reached for the door, Minnie''s mocking Igh out through the


    air


    "I get what you''re saying, Evangeline, but believing it is another story Remember how you talked the fe time we met? What happened instead? You silently got pregnant with Walters hd Does far surd The someone who wants a divorce? How naive must I be to keep taking your word for


    "Enough" Walter''s voice boomed, cutting off Minnie


    He had kept quiet, wanting to see just how indifferent Evangel


    could be


    However, as her hand touched the doorknob, a wave of loss hit him like a ton of bricks in that feeding instant, he sensed Evangeline was gone for good.


    The exnation he had kept to himself was down to itsst chance


    Minnie picked up on Walter''s annoyance and mped her mouth shut, careful not to push him her


    Then....


    "Evangeline, wait."


    Her name, called out so suddenly, made Evangeline freeze mid-step


    Ignoring the bandages crisscrossing his back, Walter sprang from the bed. It was as if he was tem would vanish on the spot, and he reached out, seizing her delicate wrist


    "Even if you don''t want to talk to me, I," Walter''s voice wavered with nerves. "I need to talk to you I need to exin..."


    "No need," Evangeline interrupted, her smile easing the tension. "Walter, we don''t need exnations between us."


    She was clueless about what Walter wanted to clear up, with so much already between them-past issues with Julia, current ones with Minnie.


    What good would exnations do when they could not change the inevitable?


    She gently tapped his hand twice, a light touch that somehow weighed heavily on Walter.


    *Heal up. Once I''ve got my grandfather settled, we''ll head to the County Clerk''s Office for a divorce."


    A subtle force hit Walter''s wrist, sapping all the strength from that once-powerful man.


    As Evangeline''s radiant eyes held him, his grip loosened.


    Evangeline''s smile shone brightly as she regained her freedom.


    "Grandpa Cole is waiting for me back home, so I''ll just say goodbye to Grandpa Trey and head out. I wont keep you guys any longer..."


    With a cheerful wave to the two in front of her, Evangeline headed straight down the stairs and made her way to the front yard.


    Trey had been eagerly waiting in the living room.


    He had heard from the maid that Evangeline had gone out of her way to help Walter clean up, and he was all smiles, thinking the young lovebirds had made up and were on the mend.


    However, instead of the happy update he was expecting, he saw his granddaughter-inw Evangeline approaching with a big grin, followed by his grandson, who looked like he was still in a bit of a shock and not fully recovered. "Grandpa, my grandpa just called. My uncles are free today and want to catch up, so he asked me to head back early. I''m off, then."T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Sure thing, be careful on your way. Do you need someone to drive you back? Trey was worried about Evangeline. She was pregnant, and he could not help but offer.


    Evangeline shook her head with a smile. "No need, I''ve got my driver with me, don''t worry about me."


    Chapter

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 386

    Chapter 386


    As Evangeline turned around, she unexpectedly locked eyes with Water


    With Trey right there, she could not let her true feelings stem te before***


    tone, "Walter, take care of yourself, okay? I''lle visit you when paire texting battar


    Her voice was soft and gentle, but it carried no real warth


    Walter did not hear the loving concern of a wife in her words, but rather the forced press of w doing what they felt they had to do.


    Trey watched Evangeline walk away and quickly gave his grandson a reassuring were "Water, why see you just standing there? Evie''s already left. Why didn''t you walk her over


    Walter, nursing a sore back, was slow to move. He had just managed to catch up with Evangene where her phone started to ring


    Evangeline was surprised to get a call at that hour. She checked her phone and saw hers are had been ages since they hadst spoken, so she quickly epted the call "Alex? What''s up? Howe you''re calling me out of the blue?


    She had no idea that Walter, watching her then, waspletely taken aback


    She looked nothing like the Evangeline he knew. Her face was not tense, and her smile was not distant. Instead, her gaze seemed soft, her expression warm


    To Walter, Evangeline was usually like a hermit, untouched by worldly matters, but on the phone with Aler she was alive with emotion!


    The difference was staggering and Walter could not handle it.


    "Evangeline!"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    That was too much, way too much! Had she forgotten? He was her husband, the father of their unbor


    child!


    "What''s the matter?" Walter''s sudden outburst startled Evangeline. She turned to see him, his face pale with fury


    However, she ignored him, her focus remaining on the conversation she was having on the phone


    "Yeah, I''m hanging out with Walter Oh, it''s no big deal, rm just heading out, and he''s being a gentleman walking me to the door. What''s that? You want to hang out I''m at home on maternity leave, so I''m free pretty much anytime, just let me know when you''re up for it." Evangeline chatted away on the phone, not even ncing back as she walked off.


    However, her words floated on the breeze, and Walter heard everything


    "Let''s catch up tomorrow afternoon at Rosewood House then!


    "I can''t have coffee, obviously, but milk is fine! Did you forget? Rosewood House isn''t just about coffee, they''ve got all those yummy pastries too. I used to worry about gaining weight and hardly ever indulged but those days are over, hahaha! Chapter 366


    +75 BCAUS


    Walter''s hand, hidden in his sleeve, balled into a tight fist.


    His back felt like it was on fire, but it was nothingpared to the inferno of anger in his heart.


    ''Alex, you''re going to regret this! thought Walter.


    How could his own brother get so cozy with his sister-inw?


    Right then and there, Walter decided that he was not going to let Alex off easy!


    Walter stood furning behind the door of the Gordon family''s old house when suddenly, he felt a warmth spread across his back.


    A voice, gentle yet chiding, reached his ears. "Look at you, dashing out the door so fast, I couldn''t even keep up."


    Minnie''s voice carried a note of scolding, but it was clear she was full of concern for Walter.


    Her delicate hand smoothed out the wrinkles on his hawl, all the while softly chiding him.

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    Chapter 387


    "It''s deep into autumn, and you''re out here in that thin jacket. What if you catch a cold? You''re already hurt, and getting sick now would just be making things worse, wouldn''t it?"


    It all unfolded with such ease, as if it was destined to be that way.


    Walter''s gaze darkened as he looked at the concerned looking Minnie.


    He was caught in a strange illusion, feeling as though Minnie had always been the woman by his side.


    Somehow, Minnie''s face began to shift before his eyes. Feature by feature, it changed, until she was no longer Minnie but Evangeline.


    Her hair danced in the breeze, a rebellious lock of ck hair teasingly clinging to her cheek, the ends brushing her lips.


    When their eyes locked, Walter''s heart skipped a beat, gripped by an unseen force that left him breathless. Still, he did not want that moment to end.


    His mind was a whirlwind of wild thoughts, and he did not care who the woman really was. If he saw Evangeline, then to him, she was Evangeline.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He reached out with a strong, defined hand, his fingertips gently caressing her cheek, sliding down her smooth skin to tuck away the stray hair.


    The blush that bloomed on her face sent a surge of joy through Walter, and he pulled her close.


    The hug was so unexpected that Minnie could feel his heartbeat against her, yet she could hardly believe it.


    The man she had tried so hard to win over, who had always resisted, then held her in his arms after Evangeline''s departure.


    Overwhelmed with happiness, Minnie wrapped her arms around Walter''s waist, careful not to press too hard against his injuries.


    Walter longed to wrap Evangeline in a tight embrace, to pull her so close it was as if he wanted to fuse her into his very being. However, as his chin touched her slender shoulder, he froze. Something was off. The scent, the height, the entire vibe-it was all wrong. In a sh, Walter stepped back, releasing the soft body from his arms, his vision snapping back to rity.


    There stood Minnie, her hair tousled, gazing up at him with a blush on her cheeks. Her pretty eyes sparkled with the thrill and surprise of the embrace they had just shared..


    "Follow me," said Walter, his voice devoid of warmth, and he turned away.


    As he pivoted, the deep, dark pools of his eyes that once swirled with warmth and intensity then turned to ice. He knew it was time for a serious talk with Minnie,


    Minnie, on the other hand, could not help but feel a secret thrill at his summons. She was filled with anticipation for their time alone.


    In the sanctuary of Walter''s study, he sat with a stern face, his piercing gaze fixed on the woman before


    him.


    "Ms. Kast, this is my private study. No one enters without my permission," he stated.


    Minnie''s heart fluttered with a silent, mischievousugh. Being alone there with Walter-did not that meant he wanted no interruptions during their time together? Then, in the next breath....


    "So, please, answer my questions carefully!"

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    Chapter 388


    Walters voice boomed, caring Mons to dude e merr gorenges to distant


    and detached.


    "Walter, what are you trying to say? I dont understad de samme


    Her eyes widened with a mix of confusiones, able to grasp the seismic shift in Waters


    behavior


    Had not Walter just caressed her face and tenderly fixed her hair? How could he suddenly act like the was a stranger?


    Walter had hoped to give Minnie the opportunity to be honest, but she continued to feign ignorance even when the moment of truth arrived. At that point, whether he pretended to believe her or not, it made no difference to him.


    "If you''re confused, let me put it another way, and yo get it


    "Minnie, what are you really after, getting close to me like this?"


    The heir to the Gordon family''s fortune was no one''s fool. He could opot a hidden agenda a mile away. The only reason he had let Minnie hang around him that long was because he suspected there was more to her than met the eye "What else could I possibly want from you?


    If Minnie had been lost in a daydream of Walters affection before, his direct question snapped her back to reality.


    This was not some cozy, romantic moment. It was an interrogation, a court of judgment Walter had set up for her!


    Tears brimmed in Minnie''s eyes as she spoke with heart-wrenching honesty, "Water, Mr. Walter Gordon of the illustrious Gordon family, you have an enviable lineage, and stunning looks. I''m just a simple orphan girl who could onlye back from overseas with your brother''s help. Is it so unbelievable that I''d fall for you and try my hardest to win your heart?!


    Minnie''s words were heartfelt and sincere.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Her words, in any situation and heard by any woman in Avalon City, would be seen as incredibly reasonable, and might even evoke boundless sympathy for her.


    However, she was talking to Walter, and he was not buying it.


    He just smirked, those deep ck eyes of his looking like they could see right through her, and yet they


    held a secret or two.


    "You''ve been trying to get my attention?"


    Minnie nodded like crazy, making sure to keep her distance to prove her point.


    "I did everything to get into Gordon Group. I sucked up to everyone, worked my tail off in the secretarial pool, and put up with all the snubs and cold shoulders, all to get a shot at working for you, Walter. Dont you see everything I''ve done for you? What''s your heart made of, rock? Why won''t it even warm up a little?"


    However, no matter how much she did not want to believe it, Minnie could not find a shred of warmth in


    Walter''s eyes.


    That was when it hit her for real.


    Walter had never really cared about her, not one bit. He was just testing her, seeing if she had some angle.


    That was not okay with her. Walter was hers and hers alone!


    Her tears fell, leaving wet spots on her blouse. With her red, puffy eyes and pale face, not to mention her messy hair, she was a hot mess


    Really? Walter chuckled, giving her that nted look that could make anyone squirm. "So, slipping me a drug was part of your grand n to get me?"


    Minnie''s carefully crafted lovestruck image cracked right then and there


    How long had Walter known?


    To keep him from getting suspicious she went out of her way to buy the most deceptively powerful drug she could find-one that worked slowly but packed a serious punch. She was determined to nail it in one


    go

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 389

    Chapter 389


    Minnie had been super careful. Walter could not have figured it out!


    "What are you talking about? I have no idea..."


    Pretending to be clueless was Minnie''s go-to move.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    However, this time, Minnie was backed into a corner with nowhere to turn, forced to stick to her guns no matter what came her way.


    "You really don''t know?" Walter asked, a yful smirk on his face as he leaned on one hand and with the other, pulled open a drawer in his study. He fished out a document and flung it down in front of Minnie "That''s a pretty penny on the ck market, right?"


    His tone was soid-back. Even the smile tugging at his lips seemed so genuine, as if he were not the one who had been drugged.


    "Should I be thanking you for splurging on me? You actually went all out and bought this pricey stuff for me?"


    Walter was done beating around the bush with her. It was just a waste of time.


    No matter who she was behind the scenes, he was eager to get that mess sorted out and win back the


    mother of his child!


    Minnie''s eyes scanned the report, her mind reeling. She could not believe that Walter had seen right through her meticulous n!


    With Walter''s knowing look, Minnie realized that her usual act would not cut it. Coming clean might just give her a sliver of hope with Walter. "Walter, I did all this... Isn''t it because I''m just too into you?


    "You have no idea how tough it was, being pushed around in the secretarial pool and not being able to see you. I grabbed the first chance I got."


    Walter cut her off without a second thought, "Stop saying you like me all the time. You make it sound so noble, but what''s the truth? You just want to be Mrs. Gordon of the Gordon family."


    Walter had seen his fair share of women trying to lure him to bed, but Minnie was by far the most revolting.


    He was so fed up that he just wanted her gone for good, out of his life and out of his sight!


    Before Minnie could even open her mouth, Walter told her to leave..


    "Take your report and leave, for Alex''s sake. And don''t show your face around me again-that''s myst piece of advice to you."


    Tears clung to Minnie''sshes as she looked at his unyielding face, her pleas stuck in her throat.


    "Alright, I''ll leave."


    Taking a deep breath, Minnie stood tall in front of Walter, meeting his eyes.


    "Before 1 go, I need to say what''s on my mind. You don''t mind, do you, Walter?"


    He gestured for her to go on.


    "You''re doing this because of Evangeline, aren''t you?" Minnie asked, her vo own words.


    betraying the sting of her


    Asking the man she loved to confess his feelings for another woman was like torturing herself.


    "It''s not about her," replied Walter, arms crossed, eyes looking down, his tone detached. "I can''t stand women who are full of themselves, and unfortunately, Ms. Kast, you''re one of them. So now that we''ve cleared the air, we can''t even be friends."

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    Chapter 390


    Minnie scoffed and gave a dismissive shrug. "Come on, Mr. Walter Gordon, we''re both smart here. Why y these games with me? But hey, even if you try to hide it, I''m not buying it."


    As she spoke, Minnie tried to stayposed, but inside, a storm was raging. She could not stand the thought that while she was gone, Walter could actually fall for that wretched Evangeline. Even so, she had to ask. Walter''s coldness made her fear she might never get another chance.


    "Believe what you want. It''s your head, your thoughts. I''m not here to control them, and I sure don''t owe you any exnations," Walter replied, keeping it frustratingly vague.


    Admitting he liked Evangeline in front of Minnie was a no-win situation. Plus, he knew all about Minnie''s conflict with Evangeline. With Evangeline carrying their child, thest thing he wanted was to turn Minnie into an enemy. If things went south, he would never forgive himself.


    "If you''re just here to grill me with pointless questions, then you can see yourself out," said Walter, gesturing toward the door, clearly showing her the exit.


    "Fine... see you," Minnie said, her face a mix of emotions as she left the study. She walked out of the house without a hint of sadness, but Walter''s words kept spinning in her head.


    Minnie was sure of one thing: Walter had not fallen for Evangeline yet. So why did he turn down ''Minnie"?


    Yet, that intense hug they shared said it all-he definitely had feelings for her. However, why the abrupt rejection afterward?


    A thought struck her, and Minnie''s cheeks turned pink


    Julia had been gone from Walter''s life for ages. Sure, Minnie''s face had changed a bit, but changing her whole body? That was a whole other story


    Could it be that Walter, at that moment, thought she was Julia, the one who vanished? That must be why he held her so close. When he snapped back to reality and saw it was ''Minnie" in his arms, he pushed her away.


    Minnie felt proud of piecing that together. Was she the only one who really got Walter?


    Realizing that Julia still had a spot in Walter''s heart sent a wave of joy through Minnie that words just could not capture.


    Back in the surveince room, Walter watched Minnie walk away from the Gordons with a smile. He felt a weird twist in his chest but shrugged it off.


    The whole ordeal had been too much, and he had not even noticed the pain in his back. However, then, as the dust settled and he took a deep breath, the searing pain hit him hard.


    He remembered the doctor had left some painkillers before taking off. Walter hurried to his room to grab


    themT��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, as he walked in, he froze. There was a middle-aged woman by his bed, setting down a bowl on the nightstand.


    Seeing her there, a flood of mixed feelings washed over him.


    "Mom, what are you doing here?"


    Walter was always the social butterfly, but he had never spoken to his mother with such harshness before.


    Once he cooled off, he was filled with regret. However, it was toote, his outburst had already sent her away. What good was regret at this point?

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    Chapter 391


    After his father passed away too soon, Walter''s mother, a widow, had bore the burden of their lives within the Gordon family for years, always the target of others'' mistreatment. That all changed when Walter took charge of the family business. The person who had made


    life difficult lost their resolve left the estate, and atst, their lives took a turn for the better.


    So, looking out for herself and her son had be her survival instinct. How could anyone fault her t that? If she was ambitious, was it not all for him?


    He could not stop thinking about how wrong he had been


    Aria shot Walter an irritated look. "Why am I here, you say? To pamper my ungrateful son, ther''s why! Here, I made your favorite Roasted Pear and Butternut Squash Soup."


    She scooped up a small bowl from the pot and handed it to Walter. "Be careful, it''s fresh off the stove and still hot. Take it slow."


    Walter stared at the soup in his hands, his eyes brimming with tears that he fought to keep at bay


    "Mom, I''m sorry." His voice was thick with emotion, a lump forming in his throat, growing and pressing until it felt like it would tear him apart.


    "Don''t be silly. What are you apologizing for? Just enjoy your soup."


    Aria''s words were gentle, but she turned away to hide a tear she quickly wiped from her eye


    Ever since Walter took the reins of thepany, he had been as elusive as a mythical dragon, hardly ever seen. Heart-to-heart talks with his mom had be a rare event. Walter slurped his Roasted Pear and Butternut Squash Soup, ncing at his mom''s teary eyes, and cracked a joke to break the tension.


    "Mom, this is just a scratch. It''s not like I broke a bone. This fancy soup is just a band-aid, not a curet


    "You cheeky boy. Regardless, you''re going to drink it because I made it!" Aria yfully smacked Walter''s arm, unable to contain herughter at his goofy face.


    Watching Walter relish the soup more with each spoonful, she could not help but start to nag a little Walter, you and Evie haven''t really patched things up, have you?" Walter stopped mid-sip, his eyes clouding over with a mix of emotions before he looked up and replied," Of course we made up. Mom, why would you think otherwise?" "Don''t try to fool me. I overheard you and Evie in your room. You''re just putting on a show of affection for Cole''s sake, right?"


    The moment the words left Aria''s mouth, Walter''s face drained of color, and she knew she had hit a nerve


    A mother knew her son best, and Walter''s reaction was a clear sign he truly cared for Evangeline


    She thought back to how Evangeline had been so modest and amodating when the first joined the family and was filled with regret. She had such a wonderful daughter-inw, and she had not appreciated her.


    Her sons tome ife was a mess and despre the fact then his wife was carrying their grandchild, they weis still on the back of divorce!


    "It''s probably just not mean to be Water, you know, sont ask for much You''re running the massive Gordon Group pouring your heart and soul imp it. You need someone by your side who really gets you! If Eve truly can''t be convinced to stay, then Ms. Vast seems pretty thoughtful, and she might be a great Matter ou Are off mid-semence Mom pisse, no moreProperty ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He got where she wasing from Parems all over the world had big hearts for their kids, right? Which genen would not foot for her own?


    All his mother warned was for him to find someone cating but his heart had room for only one person Evangeire When it came to his lifelong happiness, he was not about to settle, ever.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 392

    Chapter 392


    There a only room for Evangeline in my heart. Mom, if you want me to be happy, let''s not bring up other


    men ever again


    Walter''s words were fum, his face more serious than she had ever seen.


    Aria looked on, her eyes brimming with concern "However, Evie


    "No bute No matter what, I''m not interested in anyone else but Evangeline."


    Seeing Walter''s determination, Aria realized further discussion was pointless, and she sighed.


    a shame Ms. Kast seems to care about you so much that I even thought she might look after tter than Evangeline Especially since the west wing vi is so far away, she must be really worried about you, to make it here in just over ten minutes!" Walter''s head snapped up as if he had been shocked by a bolt of lightning.


    "Mom, what did you just say?"


    He had heard his mother''s words, but he could not quite believe his ears.


    Aria''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. She could not figure out what she had said to make Walter freak out like that. She repeated herself, "I told you, Ms. Kast really looks out for you"


    Walter was shaking his head so hard you would think it was about to spin off "Not that, the part after. Where did you say you put her up?


    "In the west wing, as far away from you as possible replied Aria, like it was the most obvious thing in the


    orld. "Where else would I put her? You and Evie are still married, after all. It''s only proper to keep a distance. I couldn''t very well have you two bunking next door to each other, could I?" Walter''s mind was working overtime.


    The Gordon family''s old estate was massive, with four standalone vis, one in each of the cardinal directions the east, west, north, and south wing visT��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Trey, the elder, loved soaking up the sun Naturally, he picked the sunny south wing vi.


    Walter and Evangeline were his pride and joy, so of course, they stayed close by in the east-wing vi Arsa, the daughter-inw, was all about peace and quiet, so she imed the secluded north-wing vi for herself. Ana stashed Minnie in the west wing vi.


    There was the thing. To get from Minnie''s ce in the west to Walter''s in the east, she had to stroll night past Trey''s sunny spot in the south. Those two vis were practically on opposite ends of the world, if she did not count the servants quarters.


    However, Minnie, on her very first visit to the Gordon family vi, had snagged a servant, asked for directions, and waltzed right into Walter''s room, all in under ten minutes


    What did that tell him? Minnie was not just some newbie to the Gordon estate. She was navigating those halls like she owned the ce!


    Why was the so at home there... Well, that was the million-dor question. Walter''s heart raced as a lightning bolt of realization struck him.


    Minnie was none other than Julia, back from Northern Montavia!


    He clutched his soup bowl, his fingers trembling with excitement.


    Aria, watching her son''s intense reaction, mistook it for being touched by Minnie''s presence.


    If Evangeline was not keen on the idea, maybe she could nudge Walter toward Minnie. It would be like they were meant to be.


    "Seems like Ms. Kast is the one who really looks out for you, huh? Walter, you''ve got to learn to roll with the punches, can''t be too headstrong..."


    Walter caught on to his mother''s hints right away, but he did not want her to catch on to his reluctance, so he mumbled some nomittal replies and quickly changed the subject. However, as soon as he thought of Minnie, the one he had sent away, regret gnawed at him. Impatience


    ns. could mess up the bigge


    He had chased her off, only to find out she was Julia. What a mess he had made!


    Regardless, collecting evidence just got a whole lot trickier.


    After Aria left, Walter popped a painkiller, feeling his back ease up a bit, when Evangeline''s call came through.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 393

    GET IT NOW Chapter 393


    "Walter, I dashed off so fast that I forgot to tell you something Grandpa Cole doesn''t know the whole story about the fight, just that you''re hurt and need to rest at home. So, when you''re feeling up to it, swing by the Foster family''s old ce to see him. It''ll keep him from


    worrying too much."


    Life was full of strange coincidences.


    Evangeline could not help but think how lucky Walter was to have kept the whole fiasco from Cole


    Hiding the truth for Cole''s well being was not wrong What was surprising was that Trey, too, kept silent about the whole thing. Then, it all hinged on Walter.


    As soon as Walter was feeling better, they would both go and check in with Cole. Then, they could put


    that whole mess behind them.


    "When do you want to head back? I''m ready to go now!


    The mere thought of seeing Evangeline sent a thrill through Walter, and he moved too quickly, wincing as he aggravated his back injury.


    Evangeline caught his pained grunt loud and clear. "Let''s hold off on that. You need a few more days to healt


    She might not be Walter''s biggest fan, but she could not stand the thought of him suffering through pain just to keep up appearances with Cole.


    "Look, regardless of what''s between us, we''ve got a kid together. I can''t help but feel like I need to give you some advice. Mr. Gordon, you''re not getting any younger. Don''t do things that''ll make him worry, okay?


    The image of an old man, cane in hand, struggling all the way to the vi to uncover a scandal, made Evangeline''s heart twist with unease.


    "Got anything else to say?" Walter''s words came out through clenched teeth.


    He wanted to clear the air with Evangeline, to tell her that there was nothing between him and Minnie, that it was all a big misunderstanding. However, he had an idea. Why not wait until he had the proof of Julia''s identity? That would be the perfect time to exin everything, past and present.


    "No, I that''s it. Just... take care of yourself."


    Beep, beep, beep!


    The call ended abruptly, leaving Walter staring at the phone, blindsided.


    Walter had barely caught a hint of concern in Evangeline''s voice when the line went dead. The silence hit him like a punch, leaving him wondering if her words had been real or just a figment of his overactive imagination.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Meanwhile, Evangeline was clutching the phone, swamped with regret.


    Why did she have to care about Walter?


    Her reaction had been pure instinct, something she could not rein in even if she tried.


    #25 BONUS


    She set the phone down, her gaze empty and lost, her eyes aimlessly wandering to the world outside her


    window.


    No matter how much she lied to herself, some things just could not be left behind.


    Evangeline snagged her usual spot by the window at Rosewood House


    She ordered a steaming cup of hot milk and, ever so considerate, asked the server to take away the opposite chair


    It would only be in the way for Alex, who used a wheelchair


    True to form, Alex rolled in night as Evangeline''s milk attived Wrapped in a cozy brown tracksuit and a nket over his legs for warmth, he was the picture of autumnfort

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    Chapter 394


    The cafe was a snug haven, and Alex''s smile was just as warm, shining like he was soaking up the first rays of spring.


    "Evie, it''s been ages."


    "Yeah, it feels like forever since west hung out."


    Evangeline had not been feeling herselftely, skipping university for quite a stretch.


    "Hey Alex, is it okay if I keep missing school?"


    "You''re not exactly on the faculty roster, Evie. Just drop in and dazzle them with a guest lecture now and then. It''s all good for the school''s rep." Evangeline''s worries melted away as Alex spoke with such an easygoing tone.


    "I''m not too fussed, just as long as the school isn''t giving you grief."


    The Foster family did not fuss over the teaching sry, but Evangeline could not forget that it was Alex who had pulled the strings to get her that job. If Alex''s work suffered because of her, she would be wracked with guilt.


    "No worries. You forgot, didn''t you? I''m the school''s golden boy, and they begged me toe back. They wouldn''t dream of hassling me," said Alex.


    Evangeline nodded, her eyes drifting to Alex''s face despite herself.


    Those familiar features, no matter how often she saw them, sent her heart racing every single time.


    It was the oddest thing, knowing they might look like two peas in a pod, but their souls could not be more different. Nheless, she could not help but be drawn to him, to that 90 percent simrity that tugged at her heartstrings.


    The waiter''s arrival snapped them out of the moment, bringing Alex''s coffee and the pastries Evangeline had craved. Pregnancy had turned her into a bottomless pit, especially for sweets, and she dug in without any pretense of formality with Alex. Little did she know that to Alex, her unguarded moments were nothing short of endearing.


    Affection swirled in his eyes, softening his usually sharp gaze into something warm and gentle.


    As Evangeline polished off her snack, Alex got to the heart of the matter. "Evie, you''ve got a little one on the way. It''s not just about you now. Have you given any thought to whates next?"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    The idea of ''whates next'' was vast and uncertain, but Alex had his sights set on just one thing.


    The rocky marriage of Evangeline and Walter.


    He knew all too well how Evangeline felt about Walter


    Her resolve could flip at any moment, so as long as they were not officially divorced, Alex''s heart was a bundle of nerves.


    "Yeah, I''ve thought about it." Evangeline casually wiped away a smudge of cream from her lips. "Even with


    a kid in the picture, he''s still the same guy, and I''m still me."


    First, it was Julia, and then Minnie came along. With Walter''s antics on top of that, she had zero fairy-tale dreams about their marriage.


    If it were not for Cole''s fragile health, which could not take the strain, she would have cut Walter off a long time ago.


    A flicker of realization crossed Alex''s eyes. That probably meant curtains for Evangeline and Walter.


    If they were out of the picture, did that mean he could)


    "The love of a father, the love of a mother, the warmth of a family-they''re all crucial for a kid growing up.


    "We''ve both been through it, that kind of hurt, you know what I mean without me spelling it out."


    Alex had been overlooked by the Gordons since he was little, and Evangeline lost her mom early on. They were both kids starved for family love.


    However, while Alex was still waiting for that affection, Evangeline had found some healing after reuniting


    with Cole.


    Regardless, the shadows of childhood lingered for a lifetime, did they not?


    GET IT NOW

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    Chapter 395


    Evangeline set down her dessert spoon, her face taking on a grave expression.


    Alex had a point.


    Evangeline had never known the warmth of a full family, and the thought of her child facing the same struggles she did was unbearable.


    Then, like a jolt of lightning, Evangeline''s resolve hardened, and her gaze turned fierce.


    "Alex, are you telling me to stick it out with Walter?" she demanded.


    She had mustered all her courage to kick that jerk to the curb. Alex, the guy she thought of as her wise brother, was suggesting she should not get a divorce?


    "No way, no way," Alex backpedaled quickly. "I''m just talking about what''s best for the kid. A kid needs a family, sure, needs a dad, but any dad who''s there from day one will do. It doesn''t have to be Mr. Right."


    Of course, ''Mr. Right'' did not have to be Walter.


    That calmed Evangeline slightly.


    "I''m not even thinking about that right now."


    Her thoughts were a tangled mess. How could she even consider finding a dad for her kid? She was already falling behind in the search for a cool aunt figure for her uncles.


    Just the thought of the Avalon City Eligible Bachelorettes Catalog, which she had barely nced at, made her squirm with guilt.


    At this rate, her kid would arrive, and she still would not have found an aunt for her uncles.


    What they did not realize was that their lively chat was being overheard by a man in a ck windbreaker at the next table. He adjusted his ck cap, his face turning stormy with rage. ''Alex, that was crossing the line!''


    Walter stared at his once-favorite cup of ck coffee, still steaming, and suddenly it tasted bitter.


    He had pieced together Evangeline and Alex''s meeting from their phone call and had slipped into the cafe early, unnoticed, to wait for them.


    He never thought he would get to sit next to Evangeline without a hitch, but as luck would have it, she ended up right beside him when she came in. She was so close that he could catch every word she exchanged with Alex, crystal clear. Alex, that jerk, was actually pushing Evangeline to scout for a dad for the baby she was carrying!


    What was he trying to pull? Did he think he could step in and y dad from the get-go, taking Walter''s ce as the perfect father figure?


    The more Walter stewed over it, the hotter his blood boiled. If it were not for the Gordon family''s good name, he would have already given Alex an earful.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    However, Walter caught Evangeline''s gentle decline.


    A wave of guilty pleasure washed over him, and he stayed put, his ears perked up.


    There was Walter, the golden boy of the Gordon family skulking like a spy in a cafe, eavesdropping on his wife''s conversation with another man!


    The irony was not lost on him, the gap between how he felt and how he should feel was like night and day. However, recalling how he had treated Evangeline before, a rush of remorse hit him. Suddenly, he did not feel so hard done by. What he did not seeing, though, was ady in a soft pink, fluffy sweater and heels striding into the cafe with effortless grace.


    She was tall, her hair in soft curls, her makeup wless, and her smile as refreshing as a spring day.


    The waiter was momentarily spellbound by her charm before snapping to attention, realizing she was his

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    Evangeline felt rather full when Alex''s conversation topic zapped her appetite. She decided to just rx and chat with him.


    Her thoughts drifted to the woman who was always tagging along with Alex.


    "Alex, howe Ms. Kast isn''t here?"


    The mention of Minnie''s name took Alex off guard, and he blurted without thinking, "Why would she be?"


    Evangeline was stumped for a second.


    To everyone else, Alex had always said Minnie was just his student. Since they were not dating, it was normal for them not to hang out together.


    However, still...


    "I always see you two as joined at the hip, so I figured she''d be with you wherever you go."


    Alexughed. "She stuck close when she was new here because everything was so foreign to her. Now that she''s got her own friends, she doesn''t need to shadow me anymore! Plus, it''s not always ideal for a girl to be around me all the time." ''Like right now.''


    Alex bit back the rest of his thoughts. When he faced Evangeline again, his heart was racing, though he did not let it show.


    Alex was a professional at stayingposed, no matter the chaos brewing inside. He was all about keeping a poker face, and Evangeline could not spot anything amiss.


    "You''re right." Evangeline agreed out loud, but her mind was elsewhere.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Truth was, Minnie was probably swamped with taking care of Walter those days and did not have the time to tail Alex, and that was the real deal.


    The click-ck of high heels on the wooden floor echoed closer with every second. The cafe was packed, and Evangeline had not really noticed at first.


    Then, in a heartbeat...


    "Walter, what a coincidence! Howe you are here?"


    The voice was sugary sweet, dripping with a coyness that could melt bones. The way she said ''Walter'' was filled with such surprise that it was almost tangible. Evangeline''s senses sharpened.


    Walter was there too? No way. What were the odds?


    Was fate really ying tricks on them, making her bump into Walter just when she and Alex decided to grab a coffee?


    She nced over instinctively and spotted a pink-d figure that she immediately recognized.


    Minnie.


    Any hope Evangeline had of that being a mere fluke vanished the moment she confirmed that voice belonged to Minnie. She was then utterly convinced that the man lurking in the corner, dressed in ck, was none other than Walter himself. When had he slipped in?


    His seat, so close to hers and Alex''s... Was it just happenstance or a calcted move?


    Seeing his all-ck attire, Evangeline''s gut told her this was no ident.


    Why? Walter, the big boss of Gordon Group, did not have the luxury of a Hank to manage her empire. With his hands full every single day, why would he sneak over to join her and Alex for a coffee?


    Little did she know, Walter was the one who felt most wronged.


    His spot was closer to the entrance, and he had spotted Minnie almost the moment she walked in.


    Walter was next door to Evangeline, and he could not shake off the guilt of having tailed and eavesdropped on her. He told himself it was best to keep things simple, so he pulled his hat down low, hoping Minnie would not spot him. However, luck was not on his side. Minnie not only pegged him right away, but she also blurted his name for all to hear.


    Instinctively, Walter''s eyes darted to Evangeline, locking with her knowing look.

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    Chapter 397


    Evangeline''s attention, however, quickly switched to Alex sitting across from her.


    "Isn''t fate strange, Alex? We step out for coffee and bump into friends." She chuckled.


    Alex shifted his gaze from Minnie and agreed with a grin, "It''s uncanny, really."


    Something seemed to click for him, and he added, "Think about it. Simr family stories, the same hobbies, and now we''re practically family. Our connection''s pretty deep!" Evangeline mulled over his words and nodded inwardly, but something did not sit right with her.


    Alex was not one for chummy talk, so why the change? She med her pregnancy for her sluggish thoughts and decided not to puzzle over it too much, justughing it off instead. "Should we go say hi?" Evangeline suggested, raising an eyebrow toward Walter, "You know, because of this crazy thing called fate?"


    "Sure, go for it. I haven''t caught up with Walter in ages, and a good chat sounds great."


    Little did they know, after Minnie let out a gasp of feigned shock, she sat right beside Walter. Given Evangeline''s sharp mind, she would probably figure out Minnie was there to snoop. That thought made Walter squirm with difort, unsure of where to rest his hands or feet. With Minnie snuggling up so close, he could not exactly push her away without making it obvious.


    He had to brave the lion''s den to snag a lion''s cub. Walter needed solid proof that Minnie was actually Julia, which meant he had to up his game and spend more time with her.


    He had booted Minnie from the Gordon family in a fit of rage and had been kicking himself ever since, trying to figure out how to smooth things over. Surprisingly, Minnie waltzed right back into his life. Too bad it was at the most awkward time possible.


    "Walter, I know you''ve been hurting, and you were just upset that day. I''m not holding a grudge. I just really hope you can let go of the anger, okay?"


    Minnie''s voice was already soft, but then it dripped with a sweetness that could melt hearts, like the most tender and well-behaved girlfriend ever. The guy she was sweet-talking? Sure, he had snapped at her because he was hurt, but to stay mad when she wasying it on thick? That was just criminal.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The whole room seemed to zero in on Walter''s table.


    Minnie, seizing the moment,tched onto Walter''s arm and gave it a gentle shake, resting her head on his shoulder as she whined, "Everyone''s staring, and it''s making me shy. Can''t you just drop the grumpiness, pretty please?"


    Her voice dropped to a hush, and with her cheeks glowing red, she looked too perfect for words. However, Walter was totally missing the romance vibes.


    Before long, a hulking brute from the crowd stood up and plopped down right across from Walter.


    "Listen up, kid," he boomed, "thedy''s practically on her knees here, and you''re still ying hard to get? Aren''t you being a bit harsh? A catch like her? There''s a line of guys waiting. If you don''t appreciate what

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    Chapter 398 Chapter 398


    The big guy red and growled when he talked to Walter, but the moment he looked at Minnie, it was like he flipped a switch. His moves softened, and his eyes lit up with a gentle glow.


    It was like watching a fierce tiger turn into a purring kitten, all thanks to some magic spell.


    However, what he did not realize was that he was poking the bear-Walter''s bear.


    Since when did the heir to the Gordon empire take that kind of nonsense?


    me Evangeline for not picking a private spot for their coffee date! He, the secret tag-along, was caught in the spotlight!


    Still, ticked off as he was, Walter remainedposed,


    "Look, mister, you have to have the goods if you want to y the thief. And what do you have? That belly full of blubber?"


    He rested his cheek in his hand, casually brushed off Minnie''s touch, and did not even bother to look up as he spoke.


    It was a clear diss, and it hit the mark.


    The guy''s hand shot up, his ck cap tumbled off, and there was Walter''s striking face for all to see.


    The crowd gasped as one.


    "Holy smokes, is that who I think it is? Walter? The big boss of Gordon Group?"


    "Totally. I smooch his picture, like, hundreds of times a day. I''ve even counted his pores, so I can''t be wrong!"


    Evangeline had been just about to get up and say hi to Walter when she overheard that wild confession. She shivered. Who even did that-kiss a photo hundreds of times and count someone''s pores? However, her thoughts were quickly interrupted by a voice that cut through the chatter.


    "Aren''t Walter and our Evangeline still hitched? What''s the deal with this chick?"


    The room buzzed with shock.


    "They''re obviously close. Does she not get that Walter''s taken?"


    "Guys, it hit me-this is the same girl who embarrassed herself at Evangeline''s birthday bash, right? I heard she''s the one Alex from the Gordon family brought from overseas, named Kast... Kast..." When the person could not spit out the name, someone else jumped in.


    "Minnie? No wonder she looked so familiar. She''s the one who tried to one-up Evangeline in front of everyone! Back then, I was like, why is this new girl all up in Evangeline''s business? Now it''s crystal clear!" "She must be crushing on Walter. How could she not go after Evangeline, the wife with the ring to prove it?


    "So she''s the type who looks all sweet and innocent but ys dirty when no one''s watching?"


    The gossip grew louder, turning the once ssy cafe with its soft tunes into a buzzing beehive of voices.


    Evangeline''s mind was swarming with exmation points.


    Thanks to Walter and Minnie, Evangeline discovered for the first time that she was known as the ''Little Princess'' among countless online fans.


    In a situation like that, if Evangeline herself were to approach Walter for a chat, it would be like stepping into a minefield.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    She sat there, wrestling with what to do, when arge hand suddenly gave her hand a reassuring pat.


    She nced at the hand''s owner.


    Alex gave her a gentle shake of his head, signaling it was time to make a quick exit.


    Considering that Alex was still Walter''s brother, and their presence together in the cafe though not overly affectionate-could set off a tidal wave of spection from Walter''s fans, it was impossible to guess how the fans online might react.

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    Thus, ying it safe, Evangeline decided that getting out of there was the smart move.


    Seizing the moment when everyone was preupled with Walter and Minnie, Evangeline summoned the waiter, settled the bill in a sh, and secretly wheeled Alex out the back door of the cafe.


    "Evie, my car''s right up front. Let''s get out of here and then we can figure out how to handle Walter''s drama," Alex suggested.


    He pointed ahead, and a white Toyota materialized before Evangeline''s eyes,


    A driver-like figure stepped out, took the wheelchair from Evangeline with practiced ease, and helped Alex into the car.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Evangeline stood by the car door, silently taking in the scene, her heart filled with a mix of emotions.


    Alex''s inability to walk made outings in his wheelchair a challenge, but having someone there for him made all the difference.


    Did that mean when Alex went to meet up, he had the driver wait the entire time while he rolled himself to


    the cafe in his wheelchair?


    Seeing Evangeline hesitate to act, Alex called out from the car, "Evie, why aren''t you getting in?"


    Realizing Evangeline might have driven herself, Alex added, "Someone can fetch your carter. The mess with Walter isn''t going to blow over easily, and with your current condition, you really shoulde with us. Evangeline could not deny the warmth she felt looking at Alex''s worried face.


    Through thick and thin, Alex had always put her first. However, Walter, the guy she actually fell for, only ever caused trouble for her to fix.


    Life was a rollercoaster, and fate loved to y games. No matter how great Alex was, he was not the one


    she had feelings for.


    Evangeline''s sigh was trapped in her throat as she gave Alex a wave. "Alex, go on without me. I won''t be


    returning.


    "If I don''t handle Walter''s mess, and this scandal gets confirmed, it''s going to be bad news for both the Fosters and the Gordons."


    Sure, the Fosters and the Gordons were loaded and would not sweat a scandal. However, Evangeline was worried about the ripple effect. If Cole got wind of it, that would be a real problem. Deep down, she cared more for Cole.


    Since Cole adored her, it was only fair she looked out for him too.


    With those words, Evangeline turned to leave.


    Behind her, Alex''s voice rose in a panicked plea, "Evie, if you go back now, you''re just going to fan the mes of the media frenzy. It''s better if youe back here!"


    Evangeline had thought about that very scenario, but deep down, something was pushing her to return.


    She quickened her pace without even realizing it, and before she could reach the cafe, her phone''s ringtone pierced the air. Already tense, Evangeline nearly chucked her phone in surprise. She took a deep breath, checked the caller ID, and hit the answer button. "Wade, is there trouble at thepany?"


    Ever since Hank had taken the reins, her assistant Wade had been up to his elbows in work, helping Hank with thepany''s affairs. He rarely called her then, only when there were big decisions that needed her input.


    Wade''s voice wasced with concern. "Miss, where are you? How are you holding up?"

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    Chapter 400


    The wholepany was buzzing with the news of Evangeline''s pregnancy,


    Hank and Wade had decided that they would deal with majorpany issues by going straight to the head of the Foster family. That meant even fewer check-ins with Evangeline. "I''m out and about. Just spit it out, Wade."


    Wade''s frantic tone sent a shiver of foreboding down Evangeline''s spine. Was thepany in some kind of serious trouble?


    "Look, good mood or bad, we''ve got to tackle the issues head-on." Evangeline''s voice was firm, her tone no-nonsense. She was in the dark about Walter''s situation and did not want to dwell on her own feelings, which seemed trivial byparison. She understood that Wade''s extra caution was because he knew about her pregnancy.


    Wade had little patience for drama, but as he thought about the bombshell he was about to drop, he felt a twinge of pity.


    "Look, it''s kind of a mess, and I can''t just sum it up in a sentence or two. You better check out the trending section on Twitter."


    Evangeline did not end the call. Instead, she hit the speakerphone button and, standing on the sidewalk, pulled up Twitter on her phone.


    The story about Walter was blowing up; she did not even need to search for it. A pop-up window appeared, practically begging her to take a look.


    Gordon Group''s CEO in disguise for a secret date, and the cafe scene with the mistress making a scene!


    Was the mistress the one who gave the wife a hard time at the birthday bash, hinting at their secret affair?


    Evangeline was frozen in shock, torn betweenughter and tears.


    For the first time, she realized how easy it was to be a Twitter sensation. The Gordons hadnded in the top three trending spots without spending a dime. To think, all that had happened in just 20 minutes. The inte was on fire with the speed of lightning!


    "Wade, what''s the word over at thepany?"


    The paparazzi were relentless, doing whatever it took to scoop the story first.


    Even though Walter was the one caught in the scandal, her ties to him meant the Fosters were bound to get dragged through the mud too.


    "Our phones are blowing up with calls, all hinting around about your thing with the Gordon heir."


    "And what are you telling them?" asked Evangeline.


    With both the Foster and Gordon empires in the hot seat, even the slightest slip-up could send them spiraling into a media frenzy.


    Evangeline knew she had to have a full grasp of the situation to deal with the mess that was unfolding.


    "No answer. Mr. Tarp said to hang up immediately if it smells like a paparazzo''s call," Wade replied with


    careful precision.


    A wave of relief washed over Evangeline.


    With Hank as thepany''s rock, she did not have much to fret about.


    "I''ve got some loose ends to tie up here. Make sure Grandpa Cole''s ce is locked down tight, news-wise. Keep everything else as is for now, and wait for my cue." She ended the call and pulled a sleek ck mask from her purse, slipping it over her face.


    The cafe was a zoo, with the owner failing to tame the wild crowd.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    All eyes were glued to Walter and Minnie, the scandal of the hour, which meant Evangeline slipped in unnoticed.


    Amid the chaos, bodyguards in sharp ck suits had Walter and Minnie under their wing.


    Shielded by their guardians, the pair edged through the sea of people.


    However, the journalists, hungry for a juicy story, were not about to let that golden opportunity slip through their fingers.


    Ignoring the bodyguards'' res, one gutsy reporter lunged forward, thrusting her microphone at Walter.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, word on the street is that your wife is expecting. As the dad-to-be, what''s the deal with you cozying up to someone else? Mind clearing the air for us?"


    GET IT NOW


    X

 401

    Chapter 401


    Out of nowhere, a bodyguard swooped in, grabbed the microphone from the reporter''s hand, and chucked it aside. "Mr. Walter Gordon won''t be taking any interviews. Please clear the way, thank you!"


    Evangeline watched as Walter and Minnie were ushered out of the cafe by their protective entourage. She sighed in relief. However, she chided herself for worrying. The Gordons were powerful, and surely they could handle a little media frenzy. Just then, a car horn red, snapping Evangeline back to the present. The window rolled down to reveal Yale Foster''s face. "Uncle Yale, what are you doing here?"


    She climbed into the front seat, her surprise at Yale''s unexpected arrival written all over her face.


    "Just looking out for you," said Yale with a shrug, then let out a sigh. "Walter has really stirred the pot this time. The Gordons can fend for themselves, but our Foster family''s darling can''t deal with this kind of drama." Evangeline felt a rush of warmth at her uncle''s fierce loyalty.


    "Didn''t


    you notice? The whole Inte''s got my back. There''s no way I''m putting up with any nonsense." "No trouble, huh? Then why the worried look? Evie, it doesn''t matter if it''s me or any of your other uncles. We just want you to be happy, always. Got it?"


    Yale''s rare disy of emotion caught Evangeline off guard, and she felt her eyes well up with tears. She med it on the pregnancy hormones making her a sentimental mess.


    "Uncle Yale, I''m just really worried about how Grandpa will take this."


    Grandpa has always treated her like she was his most prized possession. Even if he believed she and Walter were a perfect match, Walter getting busted like that... How could Cole not lose his cool?


    Yale looked like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders as he reassured her, "We''ve kept a lid on the news, and thepany''s public rtions team jumped on it right away to keep the fallout to a minimum. You don''t need to worry about a thing-just take care of yourself and the baby."


    That was when Evangeline finally felt a wave of relief wash over her.


    Walter and Evangeline''s love story had hit rock bottom, and this scandal was the perfect chance to go public with their divorce. It was impable timing.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    However, the thought of Cole hearing about it twisted her up inside. She was stuck between a rock and a h��rd ce.


    When Evangeline returned to her vi at Emerald of the Hignds, she barely had the door open before she spotted Roslyn waiting in the living room.


    One look at Yale, and she pieced together the whole saga.


    Yale, knowing she would be down in the dumps, had brought Roslyn over for some sisterly support.


    However...


    "Roslyn, shouldn''t you be on set? How did you find the time toe and check on me?" asked Evangeline.


    Roslyn took Evangeline''s arm, and they settled onto the couch together. "There was a bit of a mishap with the shoot, so my scenes got pushed back. I figured that since I''m not needed on set, why not swing by and hang out with you? "So, how''s it going? What does it feel like to be a mom-to-be?"


    Roslyn''s eyes were full of curiosity, and her smile had a hint of yfulness as she looked at Evangeline.


    The room''s vibe lifted instantly. With it, Evangeline''s spirits soared. "How do I feel? Like I''m not my own boss anymore. There''s a whole list of can''t-dos: can''t eat this, can''t do that. Zero freedom."


    It did not help that she had hired Julieta, an experienced maternity nurse, to manage her meals and routine, which meant even more of her wants had to take a backseat to the tiny human on the way.

 402

    Chapter 402


    Roslyn cracked up. "That''s one sweet burden to bear...


    "Sure is. So when are you going to sign up for the gig?" asked Evangeline, her words heavy with


    implication.


    However, Roslyn missed the subtext entirely. She instead sighed and said, "Me? I haven''t even found the man, so no burdens to bear for me!


    "Plus, I''m riding the career wave right now. Even if I had a partner, my agent would put a hard stop to marriage and kids. I''ll think about settling down once I''ve cemented my career."


    Evangeline could not help but notice Roslyn''s nces toward Yale. Was it her imagination, or was there something there?


    Roslyn was clearly into Yale. With Yale''s awkward dodges around Roslyn, it was obvious he was not


    immune to her charms either.


    Why could these two not just clear the air already?


    Evangeline was deep in thought about Roslyn''s love life quandary.


    Meanwhile, Walter was busy with work at the office, juggling more than he could handle.


    Everything went sideways in a sh. He had only dropped by Rosewood House to catch whatever juicy bits Evangeline and Alex might spill, but Minnie''s unexpected entrance turned a no-brainer into a full-blown scandal, like he was on a secret date with a mistress. Meanwhile, Evangeline and Alex, the real deal, slipped away unnoticed.


    Walter was simmering. He had tried to stayposed and ended up looking like a fool. Back at the office, he had to pull some serious strings with the Gordon family clout to keep the mess under wraps.


    Finally rxing, he loosened his tie and slumped into his chair, flicking on a cigarette. However, as he looked up, a made-up face caught his eye.


    "Walter, did I... mess things up for you?"


    Walter facepalmed, suddenly remembering Minnie.


    ''Ms. Kast, you''ve been here this whole time?" he asked. They had been back for over an hour, and he had not even noticed her!


    Minnie nodded like crazy.


    "It''s no biggie. Thepany''s got it covered. Why didn''t you just have the bodyguard drive you home?" Walter was baffled. He had whisked Minnie out of the cafe, dodging a media circus. Anyone with half a brain would haveid low. However, Minnie marched into thepany with him for all to see!


    Hearing the edge in Walter''s voice, Minnie''s tears flowed even faster. "I know I''ve messed up, and I just thought... maybe I could help somehow..."


    Her teary eyes tugged at my heartstrings, but as Walter gazed at her, it was Evangeline''s face that haunted his thoughts.


    +25 B010


    In that desperate moment, Evangeline had watched the scandal unfold around him, yet she chose to walk away with Alex.


    Did she not care at all about what would happen to him? The ache in Walter''s heart was colder than any


    winter chill.


    His face turned ghostly pale, as if he were sick, and it was painful to watch.


    Out of nowhere, Minnie produced a nket and gently draped it over Walter. "Mr. Walter Gordon, you really shouldn''t catch a cold right now." She sniffed, trying her best to look forlorn.


    Minnie had deliberately followed Walter back.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 403

    Chapter 403


    Their presence at the cafe had been so influential that, despite being guarded by bodyguards, there were bound to be paparazzi lurking, eager for an exclusive scoop.


    Would the news of her and Walter arriving at thepany together not spread like wildfire, giving her the perfect chance to make a ssh?


    Walter''s gaze was deep and unreadable as he looked at Minnie, his face a mask hiding a whirlwind of thoughts.


    Then, out of the blue...


    "Minnie, why... Why are you so kind to me?"


    Minnie''s cheeks flushed with a sudden warmth. "Walter, isn''t it obvious by now?" she asked, her voice a mix of exasperation and hope.


    She was sure Walter was just ying dumb. He must have known her intentions ever since she started getting close to him.


    Walter, with his straightforward nature, confronted the question that had been nagging at him, "We haven''t known each other long, and we''ve barely hung out."


    "Trust me, the first time I saw you, your charm had me totally hooked." Minnie cut off Walter''s words, her eyes sparkling with infatuation.


    Both Julia and Minnie could not help but fall for the guy in front of them.


    "I can''t believe it..."


    Walter''s smile was forced, his face a mix of emotions.


    If Minnie had paid close attention, she would have seen that among all those feelings, joy at being confessed to was conspicuously absent. However, she was too caught up in her own world,pletely dazzled by Walter.


    If Walter could not believe her feelings, she would just have to make it crystal clear.


    "Don''t doubt it, Walter." She edged closer to him, instinctively cing his hand over her heart, a spot that sent a clear message, and locked eyes with him.


    "I like you, Walter. I really, really do. I''d do anything to be with you. I don''t even care about whatever''s going on with you and Evangeline. So, Walter, give me a chance, will you?"


    Minnie''s gaze wandered, lost in memories.


    Touching Walter again, she was transported back to the happiest times in her life.


    Back then, Walter would shield her in front of everyone, teach her to y pool, and be there when she felt alone, offering the help she needed most.


    How could she not fall for a guy like that?


    "No, wait." Minnie''s head gave a little shake, and when she looked back into Walter''s eyes, her face lit up with a dazzling smile.


    "Walter, I love you.


    Walter''s gaze was enigmatic as he gave a small, secretive smirk. "Alright, then make sure you love me well." Time was running out. He reached out and casually pulled Minnie into a loose embrace.


    Minnie was over the moon, her face snuggled tightly against his chest.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She was aware that Walter hardly ever showed his feelings. Thus, for him to say something like that to her was as good as a deration!


    She had, at longst, won back the heart of the man she adored after giving it her all!


    What Minnie did not realize was that just above her head, Walter''s face was devoid of any joy of being with his beloved. The slight smile on his face turned dark and ominous as soon as she could not see it.

 404

    Chapter 404 Chapter 404


    Walter was fed up. He had to find solid proof that Mingle was actually Julia, to get that disgraceful woman out of his and Evangeline''s life for good!


    Walter had made up his mind the moment his feelings for Minnie shifted. There was no way he had let what happened at the cafe ur again.


    "Boss, they were out of your favorite cream of chicken and rice soup, so I grabbed some creamy wheat cereal instead..." David, carrying the takeout dinner, was rushing back to the office and mumbling to himself when he caught sight of the scene in front of him. The creamy wheat cereal he was holding dropped suddenly, spilling everywhere.


    Did he just see his boss and Minnie wrapped up in an embrace?


    The thud of the packing box echoed loudly in the deserted office, jolting Minnie out of her cozy moment with Walter. She let out a shriek, realizing who had just walked in.


    "Ah!" Like she had been zapped by a bolt of lightning, Minnie leaped off Walter and scrunched up, ducking behind him for cover.


    Her move screamed panic, but David, who had just entered, could not spot a hint of actual fear. Instead, Minnie''s clingy hide-and-seek behind the big boss came off as cutesy and docile.


    Had she finally gotten her way?


    David had been Walter''s right-hand man for ages, and he had seen his fair share of Minnie types, plotting to cozy up to the boss. However, none had ever breached the president''s personal space like that.


    Seeing Minnie peel away from Walter''s side, that level of closeness made David''s mind race to


    conclusions he did not want to reach.


    Were they an item then? What about Mrs. Gordon? Was divorce on the cards?


    In the next instant, Walter cleared up the mystery.


    "David,e here for a second." Walter motioned with a flick of his fingers, all business in his fancy leather chair.


    David scooted over, all ears and respect. "Yes, sir?"


    Walter grabbed Minnie by the arm, pulling her from his shadow to stand in front of David.


    "Looks like you''re on Ms. Kast duty from now on. Keep an eye on her day-to-day."


    "Got it." David dipped his head, his mind a whirlpool of thoughts he tried to keep under wraps.


    Minnie was just another employee, not someone who needed a special assistant for her daily grind.


    The moment Walter decided, it was clear: Minnie''s status had just leveled up. In the whole Gordon family, only two people got the VIP treatment with their daily needs catered to-Evangeline of the Gordon family and Ms. Kast.


    That said a lot about where Minnie stood.


    A flicker of triumph danced in Minnie''s eyes. She could hardly believe how quickly she had snagged Walter''s nod of approval. To top it off, his right-hand man David was then looking out for her. Her strategy of seizing the opportunity was spot-on, she had Walter wrapped around her finger!This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Despite the reality of it all, Minnie was still taken aback by how much Walter valued her. She tried to stayposed. "Oh, Walter, I really shouldn''t. I can look after myself, no need to put Mr. Zimmer out."


    However, as she touched her warm cheeks, trying to hide her shy smile, it only drew more attention. "That won''t do!" Walter gently tugged on Minnie''s wrist, and with a gentle pull, she found herself nestled in his strong arms. "I''m not into office romances, and I don''t want you to leave your job. It''s fine if the others are clueless about you, but David? He has to know. He should at least be aware of who''s going to be running the show in the future, right?"


    X


    GET IT NOW

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 405

    Chapter 405


    The mere mention of ''running the show'' had Minnie blushing even harder, if that was possible. A sharp glint passed through Walter''s eyes as his smile grew wider, a clear sign he knew exactly what he was doing. "David, let''s call it a day. Could you set up dinner for M, Kast? I''ve got stuff to do, so I''m heading out."


    Walter did not even pause as he got up to leave, but Minnie, still buzzing from the new thrill of romance, was not ready to let go.


    "Walter, it''s our first day as an item together. Can''t you hang out just a bit longer, pretty please?"


    She was still floating on cloud nine from Walter''s earlier affection, but the guy could flip a switch so fast. It was like one minute he was there, and he would be gone in the next, leaving her in a daze.


    "Look, you''re not exactly out of the picture with the whole cafe news scandal. If we''re seen out together now, it''s like we''re asking for trouble. Plus, I''m still technically engaged to Evangeline. Getting too cozy with you isn''t great for your rep either." Walter gave Minnie''s delicate shoulder a reassuring pat. "Rx for now, and I promise I''ll make it up to


    you.''


    His words of making it up to her came with a sly squint that sent Minnie''s imagination into overdrive. When Minnie stayed quiet, Walter called out to his assistant, "David, take Ms. Kast home, will you?"


    Without another nce, Walter left the office and hit the road, suddenly hit by a wave of loneliness. Crystal Waters House was the dream home Trey had gifted him and Evangeline this ce when they got married.


    Ever since his big fight with Evangeline, he had not set foot in there. That ce was a scrapbook of his life with Evangeline, holding onto the few sweet snapshots they had together.


    He nudged the bedroom door open, and there they were-the big, red dried flowers on the headboard, a vivid reminder of their wedding night that felt like it had happened just yesterday. However, the red had lost its luster, just like the memories that seemed to fade with time.


    Could he win Evangeline back after everything that had changed? He had to believe he could.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Minnie was clueless, missing the hint that he did not want to go public with their rtionship at work. It would be a piece of cake to trip her up if he just sweetened the deal a little more...


    In another part of the house, Evangeline was nestled in a rocking chair by the window, her gaze locked on the full moon. Julieta approached, a light nket in her arms.


    "Ms. Evangeline, it''s getting chilly with the fall breeze. Better wrap up," she said, cing the nket over Evangeline''s legs without waiting for a reply.


    "Julieta, you''ve been through motherhood. Tell me, do you ever miss the father of your child?" Evangeline''s voice was soft, her hand gently touching her barely-there baby bump, her eyes a pool of wistfulness. Maybe it was just the pregnancy making her extra emotional, especially in the deep silence of the night.


    Alone in her bed, her mind raced with thoughts of him, of her, of the Fosters, the Gordons...


    However, most of all, she thought of Walter, the father of her unborn child.


    Julieta paused, taking the question to heart before answering with a simple, "Yes.


    "No matter how things end up, we''ve had our beautiful moments. Our child is the living link between us, a bond of blood. How c

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 406

    Chapter 406 "I''m


    sorry..." Evangeline muttered an apology without thinking, identally stirring up Julieta''s own heartaches.


    "Don''t worry about it, Ms. Evangeline. Beyond our jobs, we''re both just people, right? If you ever want to get something off your chest, I''m all ears."T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline nced at Julieta, noticing the tears welling up in her eyes, and shyly looked away. "Is that true?


    "Julieta, I lost my mom when I was little, and even though my grandfather and uncles are super sweet, they''re guys. They don''t really get the whole ''heart-to-heart'' thing. You''re the only one I can talk to about this stuff." Evangeline inhaled deeply, feeling overwhelmed by life''s curveballs.


    Her best friend Roslyn was a whirlwind of energy, not exactly the type to grasp those fragile feelings. Why bother dumping all that on her and dragging her down too?


    Julieta offered a soft smile. "Anytime you need to talk about anything, I''m here for you."


    "I guess I know talking won''t change much." Evangeline''s gaze drifted to the moon above.


    It was a perfect orb, casting a pure light that made her tiny garden glow.


    "We''ve all got our own roads to walk, right? Nobody else can do it for us. Still, getting it out can lighten the load."


    Julieta gently pushed back against Evangeline''s resignation. "Ms. Evangeline, look at the dark circles under your eyes. You haven''t had a good night''s sleep in days. If you keep this up, how will your baby thrive? You''ve got to take care of yourself, not just for you but for your little one too." Evangeline was shocked. She thought she had her act down pat, but Julieta, with her eagle eyes, could see right through her.


    "I''ll do my best."


    The daytime was not so bad with people around, but at night, the images of Walter and Minnie wrapped up in each other''s arms just would not leave her head.


    Sometimes, in those visions, Minnie''s face would twist into hers.


    Without realizing it, Evangeline''s hand drifted to her heart.


    She knew deep down that she had not moved on from Walter.


    She could act as distant as ice, pretending he was invisible. However, those were just masks for the world, never fooling her own heart.


    Julieta did not know the storm raging in Evangeline''s heart, but she had her own take on kids. If a few offhand remarks could help Evangeline sort out her feelings, then it was worth a shot.


    Thinking this, Julieta let out a sigh to catch Evangeline''s attention. "People say a kid is the product of love. I say it''s more like a ball and chain.


    "The moment you decide to have that baby, the father''s footprint is stamped on your life forever, like it or


    not.


    "So, Ms. Evangeline, if this kid''s got you this down, maybe it''s time to think about whether he should stick around. I''ve heard bits and pieces about Mr. Walter Gordon, and letting a guy like that mess with your whole life... Is it really worth it?" Julieta''s words kept reying in Evangeline''s ears.


    Even after she got her things in order and hit the sack, shey there, wrestling with the question.


    Walter... Was it all really worth it?


    Her hands rested on her belly, feeling the firmness beneath her skin that sent a warm tingle to her fingertips.


    Julieta had said it inly: If she got rid of the baby, she would wipe away Walter''s mark from her life for good.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 407

    Chapter 407


    However, Evangeline just could not let go!


    They had shared nights of fiery passion, deep conversations that bared their souls. She had once held the heart of the man she adored. How could she just erase such treasured memories? Before she knew it, winter had crept into Avalon City.


    Minnie had used the excuse of delivering documents to Walter to camp out in the CEO''s office all day. The secretaries were murmuring their disapproval, but David smoothed things over. David did not want to clean Minnie''s messes, especially when Walter doted on her way more than he did on Evangeline from the Gordon family, or even Julia.


    However, there he was, dealing with the fallout, all because Walter''s office was the coziest spot during the biting winter. Minnie, always ying up how frosty she was, had ditched all pretenses and practically moved in, spending her days with Walter and David. David was sick of her constant chatter, her relentless pursuit of their boss'' attention. Nheless, Walter remained calm, often dropping his work to calm her and keep herpany.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    They were practically inseparable, and it drove David nuts. He had even caught k from Walter for not catering to Minnie''s whims.


    However, this particr day was shaping up to be anything but typical.


    Minnie twirled into the office, her purple dress swirling around her and the new fur coat Walter had gifted her draped elegantly over her shoulders. She had a way of moving that turned heads, and this day was no exception. "Walter, can I take the afternoon off, pretty please?" she asked sweetly, cutting through the silence of Walter''s focused work.


    She caught his eye and, without waiting for an answer, slipped her arm through his. "I''m going to the mall with the girlster. You won''t mind holding down the fort here by yourself, will you?"


    Her cheek brushed against his arm, her eyes wide and innocent, the very picture of cuteness.


    David, who had been quietly fuming in the background, scowled. Was he invisible or something? Was not he also part of this office, working with the boss?


    Walter looked up slowly, his deep, dark eyes giving nothing away. "So, I''m ving away here while you''re out shopping? You sure you can handle leaving me all alone?"


    He lingered on the word ''handle'' as if it were a challenge, a hook that caught Minnie right in the feels.


    Whether it was Julia or Minnie, neither had ever been in a rtionship with someone like Walter. She had not expected him to be so... needy.


    Even at her own home, Walter''s concern for her safety meant there was always a bodyguard lurking. Her life, both personal and professional, waspletely wrapped up in Walter''s world.


    As she stood there, Minnie could not help but regret he because she wanted to get back at David.


    If things were different, she would at least have her ow


    However, with every tick of the clock under Walter''s ev his attention.


    Every month, on the thirteenth, she had to sneak off to alone visit.


    As she stood there, Minnie could not help but regret her because she wanted to get back at David.


    If things were different, she would at least have her own


    However, with every tick of the clock under Walter''s ever his attention.


    Every month, on the thirteenth, she had to sneak off to a alone visit.

 408

    Chapter 408


    Walter''s affection was smothering Minnie, his love a tight band around her chest.


    The excuses Minnie had conjured were crumbling before they could even take flight. The disappointment in Walter''s eyes melted her resolve


    "I just couldn''t stand to leave you!" She nibbled on her lip and smoothed out his unruly bangs with a gentle hand. "But I''d just get in the way of your work, sticking to you like glue. If I messed with thepany''s bottom line, wouldn''t I be the viin stealing bread from our team''s table?"


    Sheid it on thick, hoping Walter would catch on to her desperate need for a breather and buy her flimsy excuse, if only for a short while.


    However, Walter''s reaction was unexpected. His brows knitted together, and a sharp glint appeared in his eyes. "Who''s been saying you''re a distraction? That''s just not fair. Spill it. There''s been too much gossip flying around the office, and it''s high time for a crackdown." Minnie had never seen that side of Walter and braced herself for a storm, slipping into full-on appeasement mode.


    "Oh, no way! You''ve got me in this protective bubble-who''d dare give me trouble?"


    She rested her chin in her palm and perched on the edge of Walter''s desk, trying to look calm. Internally. panic was setting her nerves aze.


    The final warning hade, and this was herst chance. She had to go, no matter what.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Before she could scramble for another excuse, Walter''s voice came, sincere and concerned, "Minnie, you know, work only started to be fun when you joined me. If you''re not here, I just can''t settle down to anything. So, please don''t go, okay? Those other girls, what are they? They can''t be more important than me, right?"


    "You''re the most important, no one else." Minnie''s response came out without thinking, her eyes wide and lost until theynded on David, who had been quiet the whole time. That was when she got an idea.


    "But Walter, we can''t just think about ourselves, right? if you keep hanging on to me like this, it''s going to make things with David super awkward! He''s the guy you sent to look after me. Our rtionship is already kind of tricky, and it''s not fair to put him in the middle, s it?" David felt like he was just minding his own business when he was caught in the crossfire. He had no clue what he had done to get dragged into that mess.


    Considering Walter''s obvious favoritism toward Minnie, David quickly stood up, his voice firm and clear, Ms. Kast, I think there''s been a bit of a mix-up. I''m all about being professional and focused at work. If that''s been bothering you, then I''m sorry!" David''s words were by the book, but the coolness in his tone made it clear where he stood.


    He would rather apologize to Minnie than get tangled up with her in any way.


    In his mind, there was only one Mrs. Gordon worthy of the name in the Gordon family, and that was Evangeline. Minnie, who seemed to havee out of nowhere, did not even deserve to be in the same sentence as Evangeline!


    Walter gave Minnie a sharp look, his eyes telling her, ''Look, he''s said his piece, you''re just making things


    up.''


    Minnie had no idea that her next move was about to push her to the brink of madness.


    She had to slip away from Walter''s watchful eyes at all costs. If she did not, she would be humiliated!


    Forget about being the esteemed Mrs. Gordon of the Gordon family; she would not even be able to linger in Walter''s shadow unnoticed.


    "However, I''ve had so many arguments with David already, and being in the office just throws him off his game. Plus, my friends are already waiting for me right outside the mall..." Chapter 409

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 409

    Chapter 409


    Minnie''s face twisted into a look of distress. She took Walter''srge hand and gently swayed it back and forth. "Walter, please, just let me go..."


    Walter could tell she was dead set on leaving, but he still asked with a tone of finality. "Are you sure you want to go?"


    "Positive!" Minnie nodded eagerly like a chick pecking at the ground for food.


    "When will you be back?"


    Walter was asking Minnie, but he could not help ncing at his watch.


    "Two hours, tops. I can''t spare any more time."


    "I guess I''ll just have to deal with being apart from you for two hours." He said it with such resolve that Minnie knew there was no point in arguing. However, the thought of escaping Walter''s gaze for even a moment filled Minnie with joy. She figured two hours would be plenty.


    With a spring in her step and a smile on her face, Minnie hurried out of thepany.


    Little did she know, right after she left, David made up some excuse to duck out of the office and, with apanion in tow, stealthily followed her.


    Half an hourter, Walter, who was supposedly hard at work in his office, got a call from David.


    "Boss, Ms. Kast just walked into a beauty salon. Should we send someone to scope it out?"


    Walter''s eyes sparkled, and his smirk was a mystery wrapped in a riddle. "Mr. Zimmer, I never told you to shadow Minnie. You''re going rogue, tracking her and updating me on her moves. Aren''t you scared I''ll boot you out of here just like that?"


    David''s paycheck was one of the fattest in all of Avalon City. However, Walter tossed around the idea of firing him like it was nothing.


    Even so, David did not even flinch. "Fire away, I could use a break. Hey, how about this? Once we wrap this up, you give me a whole month off to kick back and really chill?" He bargained with his boss as if getting canned was no big deal, aiming for a month-long vacation.


    "You''re quite the daredevil," mused Walter, his voice a weird mix of possibly impressed or maybe just mocking.


    He quickly added, "A month off? Dream on. You get one day, tops.


    "I need the salon''s info, immediately. And get some sharp folks on it to watch the ce like hawks. We''re going ghost mode on this, got it?"


    "Crystal clear!" As the call ended, David, who had been under a dark cloud for days, finally saw a break in the weather.


    He had been Walter''s right-hand man for nearly a decade, ever since Walter took the reins of Gordon Group. Walter, the ultimate workhorse, had David by his side for the wild ride because of the job''s


    demands They had clocked so many hours together


    Welter was not the type to wear his heart on his sleev impossible for David to ignore.


    On top of that, Walter had made it clear. David was to


    That order alone was enough to convince David that secret role to y


    So, even though they had never explicitly talked abou himself to watch over her. It was that kind of loyalty tThis is from N?velDrama.Org.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 410

    Chapter 410


    Walter did not waste any time diving into the report David had sent over.


    ''Sunny Glow Beauty Salon''


    The name was catchy and easy to remember.


    It looked like just another beauty salon, small and freshly opened.


    Minnie was a sucker for beauty treatments, always fussing over herplexion, so her patronage was not odd on its own.


    However, what did not add up was why Minnie, a woman who had traveled the world and pampered her skin, would choose that no-name spot for her facials. She could pluck any salon from the streets of Avalon City and it would outshine that ce in fame, size, and service.


    The moment Walter flipped to the first page, his instincts told him something was not right.


    He had a hunch that the rest of the report, even if it did not spell everything out, would point him toward


    the truth.


    He was right-the salon was at the heart of his suspicions.


    It was a ce with no history and no reputation, yet its clientele was the city''s elite, dropping thousands without a second thought. Something was definitely up


    Walter knew it in his gut-the beauty salon was shady, no question about it!


    While Minnie was still inside, probably blissfully unaware as she got her facial, Walter fought the urge to bust in and figure out what was going on. Instead, he waited for David to dig up some dirt. Meanwhile, Evangeline, fresh from lunch and soaking up the sun on her balcony, got a call that jolted her upright.


    "Lydia''s popped up on the radar."


    "What did you say?" Evangeline was not asking because she had not heard him right. She was just floored by the news.


    Ever since Lydia vanished from the hospital, Evangeline had her people scouring for any leads, but they came up empty. Out of the blue, there was a break in the case, and it caught her totally off guard. "We have a lead on Lydia, the one you''ve been searching for. Want the details now?"T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The man on the other end was almost too chill about it,ughing as he spoke, which ticked Evangeline off.


    "Snow Wolf, out the jokes. This is serious business to me."


    They were not exactly friends, but they were not strangers either. They had met during some intense drama, and though she had never actually seen him face to face, they stayed in touch through calls. ''Snow Wolf'' was a nickname, of course, and he was like a shadowy ace up Evangeline''s sleeve-her go-to guy for tracking and snooping.


    She had not wanted to drag Snow Wolf into the whole Lydia mess, but with the Foster and Gordon


    familiesing up empty-handed, she was desperate Thus, she made the call.


    Snow Wolf''s knack for getting the job done never let her down.


    A disappearance that had left no trace at the hospital, stumping both the Foster and Gordon families despite their lengthy investigations, was cracked by Snow Wolf in a mere three days. "Cuddly Cutie, when have I ever kidded around about work?"


    The frustration in Snow Wolf''s voice snapped Evangeline back to reality, making her realize she had been overreacting.


    Pregnancy had brought on waves of unexined irritability.


    Considering the years of friendship she shared with Snow Wolf, his reaction was typical. It was her own that was out of line.


    "Sorry, I''ve been kind of moodytely." She did not need to bring up her pregnancy, but an apology was still in order.


    "No worries, I''m big-hearted enough to let it slide."


    Despite his usual joking manner, Snow Wolf''s words eased Evangeline''s tension.


    "Let''s get down to brass tacks.


    "Everything points to Lydia being at this Sunny Glow Beauty Salon. I''ve put together some info on the ce, and let me tell you, it''s pretty odd."

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    Snow Wolf had a sixth sense for sniffing out the unusual, and t was not often hebeled something as


    odd.


    That alone was enough to grab Evangeline''s attention, and she pressed him, "What''s so odd about it? Out with the details."


    However, Snow Wolf was never one to y it by the book. "I''ll shoot the details over to you. Take a look. and we''ll see if we''re on the same page."


    The ping of a sent email echoed in her ear, and Snow Wolf was quick to add, "Check your inbox, I''ve sent the info."


    "You could''ve just told me straight up. Why the pop quiz?" Evangeline grumbled. His skills and temper always went hand in hand, but she never believed it-until Snow Wolf came along. The guy was a no-nonsense doer, but his moods are out there. If he did not want to spill, prying a word out of him was a monumental task.


    open the email "So, anything else? If not, I''m about to hang up." Evangeline had already clicked attachment, ready to dive into Snow Wolf''stest challenge'' as soon as the call ended.


    Usually, Snow Wolf would say something like, "Don''t let me keep you from your files," and cut the call. However, not this time. He cracked a secretive smile and said, "There''s one more thing. "Cuddly Cutie, we''ve been pals for ages but neverid eyes on each other. How about we change that- meet in person?"


    "Meet in person?" Evangeline''s words tangled in her surprise. She had always seen Snow Wolf as a friend and trusted him to the core, but the idea of actually meeting him in person was uncharted territory.


    It was like there was this person in her life, someone she trusted and clicked with, but never once did she picture letting him into her world for real.


    "What''s wrong? Not up for it?" The voice on the line wasced with a touch of mncholy. "Cuddly Cutie, here I am, pouring my heart out, and for what?"


    Evangeline''s mouth twisted in an awkward half-smile. "Come on, don''t be like that. The news hit me out of the blue, and I just couldn''t wrap my head around it right away. Plus, isn''t it safer for you if we don''t meet face-to-face? With the kind of top-secret work you do, if someone got a hold of your real identity, wouldn''t that put you in danger down the line?"


    "That''s a pretty weak excuse." The person on the other end let out a dismissive snort, but before Evangeline could get another word in, they added, "I''ll go along with it."


    The call ended, leaving Evangeline with her heart pounding over her old friend''s sudden request to meet


    1. up.


    She was no stranger to adrenaline-pumping stuff like car races and dance-offs. Meeting someone from the Inte, on the other hand, was uncharted territory for her. She took a deep breath to steady herself and then dove into the files Snow Wolf had sent her way.


    Thest sighting of Lydia was in Avalon City, at that little joint called Sunny Glow Beauty Salon. Chapter 411


    It was a tiny spot, barely on the map for long. Lydia was all about keeping her face in tip-top shape, but she would never slum it in a ce like that for a facial,Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Lydia had bolted from the hospital, needing to keep a low profile. A in-looking salon like that would keep things hush-hush as long as the cash kepting.


    It made perfect sense-Sunny Glow could very well be Lydia''s hideout.


    Convinced she was on the right track, Evangeline did not waste a second. She hit up her assistant Wade on the phone, rerouting all the Foster family''s muscle that was on Lydia''s trail to converge on Sunny Glow Beauty Salon.

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    Evangeline was clear when sheid down the n: She wanted to keep this private from the Foster family.


    She had a baby on board, and if her overprotective uncles caught wind she was still fretting over Lydia they would probably storm the vi to make sure she was ying it safe and baby-focused. It was best to keep things on the down-low for smooth sailing Unbeknownst to each other, Evangeline and Walter''s crews ended up loitering around Sunny Glow Beauty Salon. Little did they know, a shadowy figure in ck had just slipped away as they arrivedThis is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Inside, Minnie was living the dream, pampered by the salon''s top professional with some fancy skin treatment. Breaking free from Walter''s grip allowed her to rx. Stepping out of the office earlier, she felt like she had just uncaged her spirit.


    However, her bliss was on borrowed time. As she was about to nod off, her phone sted a ringtone. Not wanting to mess up the pamper session, she had the salon guy fetch her earbuds and popped them in." Hello, this is Minnie." She was too groggy to open her eyes, hitting the answer call button on her earbuds like it was muscle memory, and went with the usual phone spiel.


    Then, a gravelly voice crackled through. It was distorted, but oh-so-familiar to Minnie. "Hey, busybody, what''s up? You''re actually ringing me for once?" She remembered the times she would be the one calling. and they would act like she was thest person they wanted to hear from


    "Has the sun started rising in the west or something?"


    Before she took on the name Minnie, she was known for her beauty, gentleness, obedience, and smarts


    However, as Minnie, she added a newyer to her persona. She was finally seen as both efficient and alluring.


    Deep down, she knew she was running on empty, emotionally bankrupt, and she had poured all of herself into the person on the other end of the line.


    "I''m not sure about the sun''s itinerary, but I do know one thing. Minnie-your streak of sunny days is about to get cloudy!"


    The man''s voice was rough, and even though he tried, he could not mask the threat in his tone


    Minnie''s heart skipped a beat, guilt washing over her.


    Did he know about her and Walter''s yful romp in his bedroom? Was he ticked off?


    "Come on, don''t sweat it. We''ve been friends for ages. It''s just a house stay, why the drama?"


    He scoffed at her response. "I''m not one to sweat the small stuff. If I was cool with you using the house, I''m not going to fuss over what went down inside.


    "Let me be clear, though: Your trouble isn''ting from me."


    "Then what''s it about?"


    For Minnie, these were the golden days. Spending every day with Walter, wrapped up in hismanding presence. The thought of being apart from him for even a moment was unbearable, especially for someone who had been crushing on him for years.


    "It''s because some oddballs showed up at the beauty salon. They''re new faces, and chances are, you''re the reason they''re here.


    "As for who''s pulling their strings, well, that''s for you to figure out. I''ve said my piece. Later."


    The call ended abruptly, leaving Minnie''s heart racing and her mind reeling.


    If it were not for the thickyer of her face mask, even that would not hide how pale she had turned.


    Could Walter be the one behind those strangers?

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    25 BONUS


    Walter could not stand the thought of being away from her, so even though he said yes to her going out, he still had a bodyguard stuck close to her side, did he not?


    If that was really what was happening, Minnie could not decide if she was more upset or just in annoyed.


    She could not get mad at Walter for being so protective, but perhaps she was just annoyed with herself for being so oblivious. There she was, all grown up, and she did not even notice someone tailing her. Whatever the reason was, one thing was clear: This ce was not safe anymore.


    "Director, how''s my mom doing?" Minnie asked.


    Dressed in a pink uniform and sporting a mask, the director answered promptly, "Mrs. Lydia wasn''t really hurt. She''s been up and about for some time now." "That''s a relief," said Minnie with a nod.


    "Ms. Kast, missing your mom? How about I invite Mrs. Lydia over after we finish up here? Would you like that?"


    Minnie jumped at the director''s kind offer without a second thought. "That would be wonderful, thank you,


    "Also, is there any way to make the treatment for my facest longer? My life''s gone through some big changes, anding in every month is getting tough."


    She knew Walter all too well. He finally wanted to stick by her side, and she was not about to let that chance slip away. She had to work on bing more important to him. Moreover, cutting down on her beauty salon visits would definitely lower the odds of Walter getting


    suspicious.


    The director''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "Ms. Kast, how did you guess that we''ve been cooking up a brand-new material just for you?


    "The experimental beauty treatment is still in the testing phase, but if it pans out, one session can keep you looking fresh for a solid six months." Minnie''s interest was piqued at the thought of skipping her beauty salon visits for half a yearProperty ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Your scientists are really putting in the work," she noted.


    However, the clinic director looked visibly worried.


    "Sure, the treatment''s tough enough, but we''ve only tried it on mice so far. We have no clue what it might do to human skin, she confessed. So, the miracle fix was a no-go for, then.


    Minnie was not sweating it. She asked, "When''s the next batch of data due? I''m all in for trying this stuff out as soon as it''s a green light."


    "I''ll check in with theb team on the timeline and get back to you with the fresh stats


    "Just wondering, Ms. Kast: If the numbers look good, would you be up to be our first human test subject?" The director was treading lightly, knowing how precious a person''s face was to them. Minnie scoffed at the idea. "You''ve lost your


    not some nerve, thinking I would be yourb rat. Have wo


    mind?


    "Don''t forget who got you this gig, yourb, your everything. He put you here to look out for me. You''d better stay sharp if you want to keep what you''ve got, got it?"


    The director went white as a sheet. "My apologies, Ms. Kast."


    Minnie dismissed her with a wave. "Save it. Just make sure you deliver on what I''ve asked. Do it right, and I''ll make sure you''re rewarded when I''m back. If you mess it up, well..."

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    Minnie drew out her words with a yful lilt, her fingers adorned with sparkling nail art gracefully moving


    to form a fist.


    The director caught the hint right away. "Got it!" With a respectful bow, she quickly peeled the mask off Minnie''s face. "I''ll fetch Mrs. Lydia for you. Just a second."


    In the plush VIP lounge of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, Minnie lounged on the couch, fresh from her facial, looking every bit the vibrant rose she was.


    However, the smile ying on her lips was not one of sweetness. It was a cocktail of pride, a dash of scorn, and a hint of fierce intensity.


    Love might make a girl''s brain go fuzzy, but even though she was head over heels for Walter, she would not let her crew get too cheeky.


    Just then, a knock sounded at the door. Minnie straightened up, her heart racing but her voice steady as she called, "Enter."


    The door swung open to reveal a hand as delicate as porcin. "Julia, I missed you so much!*


    Lydia, decked out in thetest fashion and teetering on stilettos, glided into the room.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Minnie took in her mother''s chic look and breathed a sigh of relief. She sure was thriving. "I''ve been by Walter''s side a lottely, making sure we can really nt our roots in Avalon City. It''s just something we''ve gotta do."


    As they settled into the sofa''s embrace, Lydia wrapped Julia in a warm hug. At the mention of Walter, Lydia''s eyes lit up with hope. "Julia, have you and Walter... patched things up?"


    She could never forget the way Walter used to be so distant to her own daughter. Could a guy as aloof ast him really make things right with Julia?


    After everything the Rearden family had been through, her heart ached for her daughter.


    "Mm." Minnie''s voice was soft, but she could not stop a blush from spreading across her cheeks. "That''s all in the past. I''m Minnie now, and Walter and I are starting fresh."


    "That''s wonderful, truly wonderful." Lydia clutched Minnie''s hand, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    "Julia, I caught the buzz about you and Walter at the cafe. You''ve got to grab this chance. Imagine having Walter''s baby soon. Even if the Gordons weren''t thrilled about you at first, they''d open their doors wide for the sake of their future grandson." The thought of finally bing Walter''s mother-inw sent Lydia''s heart racing.


    However, her words only reminded Minnie of her own troubles.


    "Mom, you''re getting ahead of yourself. The Gordon heir is already on the way with Evangeline. No matter what I do, I can''t beat that."


    Evangeline was untouchable, shielded by the Foster family and her influential uncles-people Minnie dared not cross. Chapter 4:4


    Lydia waved off the concern with a flick of her wrist. "So having the baby!


    "Right now, she''s on shaky ground. We just need to push right?" Lydia nced at her daughter, Julia, who was al


    She quickly reassured her with a soothing touch to her h Evangeline and that trouble she''s carrying to me. You''ve is to get pregnant with Walter''s baby, quickly. Got it? If n

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    What they did not realize was that this was exactly what was troubling Minnie.


    She was more than ready to get close to Walter in every way possible.


    They had been practically joined at the hip at work for a month then, so things should have heated up between them. However, David, the assistant, always stuck out like a sore thumb in the office, blocking her every move to get close to Walter.


    After hours, Walter was all about keeping up appearances, not even offering to walk her home. How was she supposed to get him alone?This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Mom, I get it, but..."


    She tried to spill the beans, but Lydia cut her off.


    "You and Walter made up, right? Trust me, I''ve been around the block. When ites to guys and girls, if he''s into you, having a kid is a piece of cake."


    "That''s why I''m not stressing about it for you!"


    "But about Evangeline, it''s not really ideal for me to get involved right now. Could you hook me some of your crew?"


    up


    with


    Lydia had been watching the scene at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon unfold, noticing how everyone treated Minnie with such reverence. She did not care to find out why they all seemed to hang on her daughter''s every word. All Lydia knew was that if Minnie was running the show, then she deserved a slice of that power too-to do her daughter''s status justice!


    "Don''t sweat it. If you need anything, just hit up the director. She''s got your back," said Minnie.


    As for the whole Walter situation, Lydia figured she had plenty of time to sort that out and shrugged off


    the worry.


    Minnie let out a deep sigh, her smaller hand squeezing her mother''s. "Mom, that whole mess with Evangeline''s kid? I''m counting on you to handle it."


    Getting Lydia to take care of it would be a huge weight off Minnie''s shoulders.


    She checked the time. Walter would be finishing up work any minute now.


    "Walter''s waiting for me back at the office. I have to go


    Minnie raced back to the office, clueless that the moment she stepped out, one of Walter''s guys strolled


    Into the salon.


    David, decked out in a crisp white casual get-up, sauntered in.


    The receptionist, a picture of youth and beauty, noticed his grand aura and hurried over. "Hey there, sir! Looking for someone special today?


    At Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, the clientele was always high-end. Even a front desk neer like her knew better than to rub anyone the wrong way. She was all smiles and charm. David eyed the girl, a yful glint in his dark eyes. "Who says I''m here for someone else? Maybe I just


    want to treat myself to a facial?"


    His flirtatious jab sent a wave of crimson across the receptionist''s cheeks, and she quickly dipped her head in a bashful apology.


    "Sorry, sir, this ce isdies-only. If you''re waiting for someone, you can hang out over there," said the receptionist, pointing in a direction with a graceful gesture. David''s gaze followed her direction.


    Beneath the towering windows, a jungle of greenery flourished, and funky, colorful couches were scattered about with effortless style.


    He was intrigued.


    This tiny salon had the nerve to be picky with its clientele.


    With his mission in mind, David could not resist a little flirtatious banter w

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    The receptionist blushed, but her eyes flickered with a hint of trouble before she firmed up.


    "I''m sorry, sir, but that''s against the rules."


    She sounded like she was pleading with David.


    David backed off with a chuckle. ''Okay, okay, I won''t bother you. However, surely I can speak to the director, right?


    "My girlfriend raves about your facials. I thought I''d surprise her with a gift card for her birthday."


    The receptionist eyed the well-dressed man before her his designer outfit and unique aura convincing her of his sincerity. "Sure thing. I''ll take you to the VIP room to wait, and I''ll get the director for you." Once inside the VIP room, David''s first move was to scan the area for any cameras. Satisfied, he messaged Walter, [We''re all good here.]


    David sprawled on the sofa rxedly as if he were lounging in his own living room, not the VIP suite of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon.


    The director seldom met with clients herself, but the prospect of a lucrative deal had her hurrying over to


    the VIP room.


    The moment David stepped through the door, he casually flicked his lighter and brought a cigarette to life, inhaling with azy ease. However, when the salon''s director made her entrance, David paused, caught off-guard. It was a well-known fact: the beauty biz did not do ugly


    The woman in front of him had been a knockout-porcin skin, bold features, and a smile that could light up a room, her exotic allure untouched by any hint of makeup. She had been a walking billboard for the salon''s promise of natural beauty. With impable manners and a soft smile ying on her lips, she greeted him, "Hello, sir. I''m the director of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, What''s your name, if I may ask?"


    "Zimmer," he answered, snuffing out his cigarette in a gesture of respect. "So, you''re Celina?"


    He had done his homework on Sunny Glow, and that included the woman in charge.


    Celina Morris, 26, a doctorate holder fresh from overseas, was born into a dynasty of cosmetic wizards- she was a prodigy in her field.


    David had been skeptical at first, a young woman her age running a salon had to be riding on her family''s coattails. However, seeing her in person, he could not help but feel a twinge of admiration.


    Celina gave a small nod. I was told you''re looking to get a membership for your girlfriend''s treatments. Shall I walk you through our offerings?"


    However, David raised a finger, cutting her off mid-sentence, "Hold on, let''s skip the sales pitch for a minute. I''m more concerned about how you handle privacy here. I don''t want my details-or hers-ending up all over the ce after signing up. Chapter 416


    Celina caught on to his worry right away, her expression softening as she got down to business, ready to reassure him about their confidentiality protocols.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t fret about that. Our salon takes guest privacy super seriously. We''ve got this high-tech system for keeping track of everyone''s info, and this VIP room you''re chilling in? No cameras and it''s got some serious soundproofing action going on." "Really?" David''s smile had a sly edge to it: "So, if I wanted to get up to something a bit more... off the menu in here, it''d be a piece of cake, huh?"


    Celina bit her lip and nodded, her eyes wary as they locked onto David. "That''s why some folks dig having their secret meet-ups or parties in our VIP room. It''s part of the whole package we offer.


    "However, just in case things go sideways, we''ve got top-notch security in here. You know, we get all sorts of peopleing through, and we definitely don''t want any trouble brewing in our spot."

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    Celina yed it by the book, but David''s easy-going face got serious real quick


    ''She''s on to me,'' he thought.


    She had caught the whiff of trouble andid down a smooth warning: The security system would shut down trouble the moment one arose.


    Too bad David was not there for a facial or a membership card.


    "Really? Well, I appreciate the heads-up."


    David''s voice was steady as a rock, but then, like lightning, his arm shot out, his hand mping down on Celina''s wrist like a vice, twisting it behind her back in one swift move.


    Just the two of them in the big, fancy VIP room.


    Celina was no match for David''s grip, and she let out a sharp, panicked scream.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    s, the room''s outstanding soundproofing was great for privacy but meant her cries for help did not stand a chance.


    "What are you trying to pull?" Celina''s voice was steady, betraying none of her fear. "Let me go, and I''ll agree to anything you want. You know our Sunny Glow Beauty Salon rakes in serious cash. Just one deal, and you could be living it up for months." "How much cash are we talking about?" David was not gentle as he pinned Celina''s hands behind her back, his grip iron-tight.


    "How about seventy-five thousand dors?" Celina offered hopefully.


    David''sughter echoed through the room. "Ms. Morris, if I had the guts toe here alone, you bet I''ve got a n to walk out untouched. So, you think your life''s only worth seventy-five thousand dors?" Celina realized she was in deep trouble and stopped struggling.


    "So, what''s it going to take to let me go?"


    Every VIP room had a panic button that would bring the salon''s bodyguards storming within three seconds.


    Celina yed it cool, pretending to give up. She was just waiting for the right moment to hit that button and get rescued.


    However, David was one step ahead.


    "Let''s cut to the chase, I''m not here for the money."


    He whipped out a pair of handcuffs he had been hiding and mped them on Celina''s wrists with practiced ease. She was then cuffed to the only wooden chair in the room, utterly powerless. With no way to fight back, Celina had no choice but to ept her fate.


    Celina''sst-ditch effort to save herself was crushed without mercy. Panic surged through her, leaving her face as white as a nk page.


    David finished his move and gave her shoulder a reassuring pat. Then, with a finger to his lips, he gestured for silence. "Ms. Morris, hold your questions. Take a wild guess at who I am?" Celina locked eyes with him, his gaze deep and unreadable. She rifled through her mind for any scrap of


    info on this man.


    He carried himself with an air that screamed ''not here for the money, and then there was thatst name-


    Zimmer...


    In a heartbeat, her resistance melted away. No more fight left in her.


    "I''ve heard rumors about a special assistant named Zimme

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    David did not beat around the bush and owned up to it


    "Sharp as a tack! But rx, I''m just here to ask you a few things. Answer me honestly, and I''ll be out of your hair in no time."


    In that moment, David might as well have been Walter himself. Walter, even though they had never met, she felt like she knew him inside out. Then she knew who she was dealing with, Celina''s nerves settled, and she even cracked a smile.


    "So, I''m curious. What if I don''t spill the beans? What''s your y? I''m new to Avalon City, and I''m not sure if an assistant to the president of Gordon Group making people disappear is the kind of headline that gets attention. Could that stir up trouble for your Gordon Group?"


    "Feel free to test the waters." David pulled out a tiny vial from his pocket, his meaning crystal clear as he spoke, "Okay, I know it sounds nuts, but I''m dying to see how this works on you. I mean, the Gordon Group has been the big dog in Avalon City for years. It''s a total waste to let all that power just sit there unused, right?"


    He pinched the vial between his thumb and index finger, holding it up for Celina to see. Thebel was smudged and hard to read, except for the word ''cyanide, which stood out like it was meant to be seen.


    Celina''s face, already pale, turned a sickly shade of green. She had figured that David, being one of Gordon''s guys, would at least y it cool for thepany''s sake, even if he was doing Walter''s dirty work. However, the guy was insane!


    David shot Celina a casual nce. "Ms. Morris, have you made up your mind yet?"


    Celina steadied her gaze and gulped. "What''s your question?"


    "Wouldn''t it have been easier to just listen from the start, instead of all this drama?" In a sh, David stashed the vial away and slumped back onto the couch, lighting up a cigarette like he did not have a care in the world. "You always need a little ''present'' to y nice. Such a bad girl,"


    He sounded almost affectionate, but then he crushed the cigarette under his sneaker, his eyes turning hard and sharp. "You''re familiar with Ms. Minnie, aren''t you?"


    "Sure, she''s a regr. Come in for a facial once a month." Celina''s response was textbook.


    "And what kind of work does she get done? A total transformation, or is it more like a disguise?"


    David''sugh took on a darker edge as he caught the shock flickering in Celina''s eyes, and he could not help but let it grow.


    "I... I have no idea what you''re talking about."


    David flicked his lighter to life, igniting another cigarette. The smoke curled up into the air, dancing in the emptiness. In a swift move, he aimed the glowing tip perilously close to Celina''s lovely face.


    "Ms. Morris, if you don''t behave, I''ll get mad. And trust me, when I''m mad, I can''t promise I''ll be gentle..."


    12


    At the Gordon Group''s presidential suite,


    Minnie was aware she had lingered too long at the beauty salon and rushed back to the office,


    Upon arrival, she spotted Walter, deeply engrossed in his work at his desk. "Walter, why''s it just you? Where''s David?"


    David, the ever-present personal assistant, was usually glued to Walter''s side.


    Truth be told, Minnie had been itching to make a move on Walter for ages, but David, the human spotlight, either did not get the hint or was purposefully thwarting her.


    No matter how overt or subtle her flirting, he was always there, eyes wide, monitoring every interaction, forcing her to battle her embarrassment every time she tried to cozy up to Walter. Eventually, her crush on Walter had started to wane.

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    Chapter 419


    However, things were different. Minnie''s top priority was to have Walter''s baby, and fast.


    If David, the ever-watchful guardian, was truly absent, was this not the golden chance to charm Walter?


    The thought brought a gleam of excitement to Minnie''s eyes, but knowing Walter''s sharp mind, she reined in her eagerness, squashing down her thrill.


    Walter nced up at her briefly before his eyes darted back to the papers he was reviewing. "He mentioned something urgent at home. I figured since there''s nothing pressing for me here, I let him take off."


    Minnie listened to Walter''sid-back tone and realized he was not at all concerned about David''s sudden


    departure.


    However, she could not afford to be so nonchnt. David was a straight shooter, and if he returned just as she was about to seal the deal, it would ruin everything.


    "Will he be backter?" Minnie nced at the clock. There was still an hour left until quitting time,


    With David needing to handle his family situation and thene back, it seemed pretty unlikely, right?


    "Nope, he won''t make it back. With the clock ticking, there''s no way. Plus..." Walter quickly signed his


    him the name on the document and then stretched out in his chair, yawning widely. "I actually gave afternoon off."


    Minnie echoed the word ''actually under her breath, giving Walter a puzzled look.


    "Actually?"


    Walter''s brow creased, and he exined with a hint of annoyance, "Didn''t youin about David always being around, cramping our style? Now he''s gone, and you''re not happy?"


    He yfully stressed thest word, his eyes softening with a look that was both teasing and tender toward Minnie.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    "Of course I''m happy! I''ve been waiting for a chance like this."


    A thrill ran through Minnie. With David out of the picture, she had no more reservations. In a swift move, she threw herself into Walter''s arms.


    Walter gently patted her back, continuing to exin, "You know David, right? The guy''s all business, by the book, and he''s been with me for years. I can''t just squash his work spirit, can I? So, I figured it was time to give him a break." Walter''s words flowed like he was just making casual talk, and it made Minnie feel all warm inside.


    However, in a heartbeat, her guard was up.


    Did Walter know something? The Walter she remembered would not bother exining himself to any girl, much less pamper her like that.


    She had to watch her back, and Minnie''s conscience was not exactly clear,


    ying it safe, Minnie tested the waters. "Walter, I''m feeling so incredibly happy right now.


    "Who would''ve guessed? The big boss of Gordon Group without breaking a sweat, is totally sweet to me. I must

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    Chapter 420 Chapter 420


    "As long as you''re happy," said Walter, his smile just a flicker. The hard edge and fierceness in his eyes were tucked away, leaving only what Minnie hoped to see.


    Out of nowhere, a delicate finger poked at Walter''s chest, followed by Minnie''s voice, tinged with a hint of jealousy.


    "Walter, have you ever been this nice to any other girl? Ever been this patient, exining things to keep another girl''s worries at bay?"


    The thought alone soured Minnie''s mood like a spilled bottle of vinegar. If Walter dropped Evangeline''s name right then, she was sure she would lose it.


    "Just you," said Walter, without missing a beat.


    For him, the question was a no-brainer. His status meant he never had to justify himself to anyone.


    "You''re fibbing." Minnie used with a yful pout. "Didn''t you ever have to exin yourself to Evangeline? You''ve been married forever..."


    She drew out her words, teasingly leaving the sentence hanging, inviting wild guesses.


    However, Walter was not having any of it. He covered Minnie''s mouth with his hand. "No exnations needed with her.


    "Our marriage is pretty much what you''ve seen in the tabloidscking in love."


    The mention of Evangeline stirred somethingplicated in Walter''s


    eyes.


    He was not one to exin himself, that was true. However, Evangeline was the exception-the one person he wished he could exin everything to. Too bad she never gave him the chance. "So, do you get where I''ming from?" Walter gazed into Minnie''s eyes, feigning a depth of feeling.


    He had seen through Minnie''s little game from the moment she started talking. Since he had, he wanted to put her mind at ease.


    What he did not realize was that his look reached right into Minnie''s soul. The part of her that adored Walter, the part that answered to the name Julia, was fully awakened. Any semnce of reason crumbled, leaving behind a heart aze. "Enough with the questions. Aren''t you tired? Work''s almost over, let''s grab dinner. I''ll drop you off afterward." Walter gave Minnie a reassuring pat on the back and stood up to leave.


    "No way!" blurted Minnie, instinctively pushing back.


    As if she could go home-she still had her main event of the day to tackle.


    Minnie had been waiting for the perfect moment when David was out of the picture, and today was the day she was going to make her move on Walter.


    As Walter gave her a confused look, Minnie realized she had been too blunt in her rejection. She did not want to upset him.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Quickly, she switched gears and softened her voice,ing up with a quick excuse, "Um... Isn''t it still


    work hours? I just thought, as the CEO, it might not look great if you duck out early, right? I''m just thinking about what''s best for you and thepany, you know?


    By the end of her spiel, Minnie was yfully clinging to Walter''s arm, not bothering to hide her flirtatious


    intent.


    "Okay, okay. You''re looking out for me and thepany, so let''s just hang out here until the workday is officially done, then we can head out," said Walter in a good-natured tone, releasing Minnie''s arm and settling back at his desk. "I''ve got a couple of reports to go through. Why don''t you find something to do for a bit, and once I''m done, we can leave together?"


    However, as Walter was about to dive back into his work, Minnie pa

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    Chapter 421


    "Walter, how long have we been together?" Minnie asked.


    "A little over a month, why?" Walter replied, eyeing her with a hint of suspicion but with a smile hidden in his heart.


    Minnie always tried to outsmart him, and he had grown tired of ying her games.


    She had nearly gotten her wayst time because he had not been on guard. This time, her intentions were clear as day. Was she nning to pull the same stunt again?


    "So, you''re aware it''s been a month," she said.


    Minnie''s eyes zed with the hurt she had been bottling up, and she let it all out at Walter, not bothering to hide her frustration. "For the past month, the most we''ve done is hug. Don''t you think that''s a little too.... well, you know." She could not even bring herself to say the word. It was too mortifying. There was Walter, smirking at her like he knew exactly what she meant.


    "Come on, you don''t like me, do you?"


    "Why do you say that?" Walter chuckled, his hand that Minnie had grabbed slipped away unnoticed.


    "Because you never want to get close to me."


    "Well, if that''s how you see it..." He paused for effect. Then I guess I don''t like you."


    They said the truth was often said in jest. How could he have had feelings in a game of mutual use?


    Minnie was not even in the same league as Evangeline. How dare she talk about feelings?


    "You!" Minnie''s eyes welled up with anger. "Say that again, and I''ll really lose it!"


    "Fine, if you don''t want me to work, let''s just go grab some food."


    Walter could have wrapped up his work ages ago. The only reason he was still there was to keep Minnie calm until David got back.


    However, keeping her calm was about all he could manage. Being alone with her was awkward, especially knowing she had a hidden agenda.


    At this moment, Minnie was acting all high and mighty


    "No! Just tell me, do you have any feelings for me? Do you or do you not want to be close?"


    Her-determination to get an answer was downright stubborn.


    Walter just shook his head, amused.


    Julia, who once could not muster the courage to raise her voice, was boldly yelling while wearing Minnie''s face. What a transformation! It was clear that the loving vibe he had been crafting was working like a charm-Minnie was hooked. Lost in thought, Walter''s face turned serious. "Minnie, don''t you see? Holding back is for your own good.


    I''m still legally married. If I crossed the line with you, that''d be terribly irresponsible. Just hang tight. Once Evangeline and I are done, I''ll make all your wishese true."


    It was like a giant, sugary pancakended right on Minnie''s head, squashing her fiery temper. "You... You really mean that?"


    She was floored. Walter''s restraint was actually for her benefit? His confident gaze made her heart flutter with doubt. "Still... if you wanted to, I wouldn''t think twice..." Chapter 422


    "Walter, how long have we been together?" Minnie asked.


    "A little over a month, why?" Walter replied, eyeing her with a hint of suspicion but with a smile hidden in his heart.


    Minnie always tried to outsmart him, and he had grown tired of ying her games.


    She had nearly gotten her wayst time because he had not been on guard. This time, her intentions were clear as day. Was she nning to pull the same stunt again?


    "So, you''re aware it''s been a month," she said.


    Minnie''s eyes zed with the hurt she had been bottling up, and she let it all out at Walter, not bothering to hide her frustration. "For the past month, the most we''ve done is hug. Don''t you think that''s a little too.... well, you know."This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    She could not even bring herself to say the word. It was too mortifying. There was Walter, smirking at her like he knew exactly what she meant.


    "Come on, you don''t like me, do you?"


    "Why do you say that?" Walter chuckled, his hand that Minnie had grabbed slipped away unnoticed.


    "Because you never want to get close to me."


    "Well, if that''s how you see it..." He paused for effect. Then I guess I don''t like you."


    They said the truth was often said in jest. How could he have had feelings in a game of mutual use? Minnie was not even in the same league as Evangeline. How dare she talk about feelings? "You!" Minnie''s eyes welled up with anger. "Say that again, and I''ll really lose it!"


    "Fine, if you don''t want me to work, let''s just go grab some food."


    Walter could have wrapped up his work ages ago. The only reason he was still there was to keep Minnie calm until David got back.


    However, keeping her calm was about all he could manage. Being alone with her was awkward, especially knowing she had a hidden agenda.


    At this moment, Minnie was acting all high and mighty


    "No! Just tell me, do you have any feelings for me? Do you or do you not want to be close?"


    Her determination to get an answer was downright stubborn.


    Walter just shook his head, amused.


    Julia, who once could not muster the courage to raise her voice, was boldly yelling while wearing Minnie''s face. What a transformation! It was clear that the loving vibe he had been crafting was working like a charm-Minnie was hooked. Lost in thought, Walter''s face turned serious. "Minnie, don''t you see? Holding back is for your own good.


    I''m still legally married. If I crossed the line with you, that''d be terribly irresponsible. Just hang tight. Once Evangeline and I are done, I''ll make all your wishese true."


    It was like a giant, sugary pancakended right on Minnie''s head, squashing her fiery temper. "You... You really mean that?"


    She was floored. Walter''s restraint was actually for her benefit? His confident gaze made her heart flutter with doubt. "Still... If you wanted to, I wouldn''t think twice..."


    +35 BONUS

 422

    Chapter 422


    Walter''s finger pressed gently against Minnie''s lips as he teased, "Don''t talk like that. There are lines I''ve drawn that I won''t cross. Stirring the pot will only make things harder for me." Frankly, he wanted zero physical contact with Minnie at this very second.


    Minnie mistook his self-control for deep care, and her cheeks turned a rosy pink. "I wish we could keep this up forever."


    Just as they were wrapped up in each other, Walter''s phone shattered the moment. He hit the answer button, and his face said it all-total resignation.


    "Where in the world are you, you rascal?" Trey''s voice crackled through the phone, bristling with anger. "At the office." Walter''s reply was detached, brief, and to the point. "Swing by after you clock out!"


    Trey did not even flinch at his grandson''s curt tone, barking out themand.Property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Why should I bother going back?"


    If Evangeline was not there, Trey would just go on and on about chasing her down.


    With Minnie still in the picture, how could he even think about Evangeline? Heading back would just be a headache. Maybe it was better to stay away.


    "Come on, what kind of question is that? I tell you toe home, and you ask why. Like it or not, you''reing back today!"


    The line went dead. Walter pocketed his phone with a scowl.


    Minnie, catching his grim look, offered some words offort, "You''ve been with me non-stop for a month, not even visiting your grandfather. He''s probably missing you. Let''s skip dinner tonight, and you can go keep himpany." Minnie was not


    y being selfless.


    She was ying her cards to look good in front of Walter, acting the part of the dutiful granddaughter. Too bad she did not realize her clever act was wasted on Walter, who had no desire to return.


    "Really?" His eyes narrowed, the warmth gone in an instant.


    Minnie tensed up, but she had alreadymitted to her role of the devoted partner, Clenching her teeth, she pressed on, "Walter, Grandpa is not getting any younger, and we''ve got to show him some love and respect. "He''s not exactly my biggest fan right now, so I''ll steer clear and not cramp his style. Once we''ve got our stuff sorted, I promise we''ll both go pay our respects.


    If Evangeline had said those words, Walter would have felt enamored. However, knowing it was Minnie. with Julia''s disapproving shadow lurking behind her, it just felt like a bad joke. k


    How could Minnie genuinely care about Grandpa? She was just putting on a show before walking through the door.


    Even so, if she wanted to y the part of the devoted granddaughter, why burst her bubble?


    With a heavy heart, Walter yed along. "I''ll head out, then. David''s got a driver waiting for you downstairs at the office. Grab a bite wherever, and then head home, okay?" Ditching Minnie was a relief for Walter, no doubt about it.


    However, heading back to the Gordons? Not happening


    Back at Crystal Waters House, Walter called Trey again.


    "Grandpa, whatever you need to say, just spill it over the phone. I''m noting back."

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    Chapter 423


    Juggling Minnie every day was draining enough for Walter, and adding Trey''s nagging about Evangeline to the mix? He was on the verge of a meltdown.


    Ever since he had fallen for Evangeline, his nerves were shot-so much that he almostughed at his fragility.


    Love, he figured, was a real piece of work. It had him all tied up in knots and walking around like a lost soul.


    Trey could see Walter was set in his ways, so he did not push him. "Tell me, after you pulled that awful stunt, did you ever apologize to Evie?"


    A whole month had gone by, and Walter had not stepped foot in the Gordons'' ce since the day he left with a bruised ego-and face.


    Trey was torn between being furiously angry and feeling a pang of sympathy for his pregnant. granddaughter-inw, all alone.


    "Grandpa, just leave Evangeline and me out of this, okay?"


    The whole mess was so knotted up that Walter could not figure it out himself. Thus, how could Trey, who was pretty much out of the loop, get it?


    Walter was drowning in defeat, fighting tooth and nail to keep from losing itpletely.


    "Alright, I''ll stay out of it between you two. However, I''m not about to ignore my great-grandkid!


    "Walter, think about it. Evie''s been carrying that baby for nearly three months now, hasn''t she? Have you even bothered to check in once during all this time? Is this your idea of being a dad?"


    The thought of the child stirred up a storm inside Walter.


    He would give anything to be with Evangeline and the baby, to watch her belly swell day by day, to feel every little kick and squirm.


    However, none of that could happen until he sorted out the mess with Minnie.


    He was not about to tell all that to Trey, though. It was far too messy, and he was not in the mood to spill his guts.


    "Grandpa, I''ll see the kid, I promise you that." That was the only pledge he could make.


    "You don''t have to beat around the bush with me. By tomorrow, you need to visit Evangeline and the kid! You think you''re all grown up now, doing whatever you want, seeing any woman you fancy. I''m too old to keep tabs on you, and I don''t have the energy to try, but taking care of Evangeline and the child is myst request of you!"


    kay." Walter agreed without hesitation.


    Truth be told, he thought about Evangeline every single day. It was only because of Minnie''s presence that he had been holding back.


    With Trey''s order, he had a legitimate reason to see Evangeline, and he figured he would not be turned


    away this time.T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, tranquility at Crystal Waters House was not on the cards for tonight


    A sleek ck Maserati raced up and halted at the front gate


    David, d in crisp white, stepped out with a grave look on his face. He hurried to the door, then paused, realizing he had not yet cleared his visit with the boss.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve got something urgent to report


    When Walter got the call from David, a chill of foreboding ran through him. Sensing the urgency, he wasted no time and swung the door open.


    Inside the living room, David stood off to the side respectfully as he quickly sorted through the details he had learned from Celina. Then, he began his report.


    "We''ve confirmed that Minnie is actually Julia. The reason she''s been hitting the beauty salon every month is to maintain her face with some special treatments, so she can keep up her Minnie disguise"

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    Chapter 424


    Walter fell silent.


    Walter knew David like the back of his hand after years of working side by side. David would nevere knocking thatte over something minor. So, Walter sat back, ready to listen to the whole scoop in one go. As expected...


    "You''ve been suspicious about Miss Minnie''s identity for a while, which is why I shadow her day and night. But tonight, I''ve got something bigger. It''s about who Minnie really is.


    "Minnie''s backed by some heavy hitters-a family with big dreams. They''ve heard about the Gordons owning the South and the Fosters running the North, and they''re itching to shake things up, make it a three-way power y." Walter rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Who''s feeding you this?" he asked.


    "Celina, the boss of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon. Don''t let her youth f everyone, and has the scoop on everything."


    David was earnest.


    you-she''s connected, knows


    In less than an hour with Celina, he had pegged her as sharp as a tack, Plus, her story checked out with his investigation, so he was betting she was on the level.


    "You really buy what she''s selling?"


    Walter''s question caught David off guard, but his reply did not waver.


    "I do."


    "Remember, trusting too fast isn''t always smart." Walter''s words did not quite match the look in his eyes as he absentmindedly rubbed his chin. His deep, dark eyes seemed to be hiding a storm of thoughts that no one could read.


    "You know that family you keep talking about, the one with all the clout? Don''t tell me it''s... the Bennisons, the ones stirring up all sorts of drama down in the Southern Crowndstely?"


    David''s eyes widened, and he went a shade paler. "How''d you find out, sir?"


    The Bennison family was shrouded in secrecy, and David had only started piecing things together after getting the information from Celina.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter shed a sly smile. "Ever heard of a guy''s gut feeling?"


    David shook his head. "I don''t buy into gut feelings. I stick to the solid, hard facts."


    Walter let out a long sigh and patted David''s head. "You''ve been by my side through thick and thin. I''ve put you through a lot. It''ste-do you want to crash here or head home?" Before David could even get a word out, Walter decided for him. "Stay here. The ce is empty except for me. Just pick any room and hit the hay."


    Crystal Waters House sure felt empty without Evangeline around.


    #25 BONUS


    As Walter got up to leave, David was left scratching his head.


    Why did the boss say it had been tough on him? Was it because David had been digging into things, and maybe Walter felt a bit guilty for the grind? Lying in the quest room bed, David was still trying to figure it out.


    However, it turned out that he was not the only one tossing and turning that night.


    Walter was wide awake too.


    The Bennison family was a force to be reckoned with in the Great Northern States, wielding wealth and resources that ranked at the top nationwide.


    Their standoff with another influential family erupted at a diamond mine auction in the Southern Crownds. Neither side would back down, leaving the mine''s fate hanging in the bnce. Walter, however, had always thought that win or lose, the families should cut tiespletely.

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    Chapter 425


    However, there was Julia, whom he had sent off to Northern Montavia. In a twist of events, the Bennisons had sneakily helped her switch identities and pulled her into their orbit. The string of coincidences was too much for Walter to brush off as mere chance.


    What was the Bennison family really after? If David was right, they were gunning for the Gordons and the Fosters


    How bold must they be to even think about taking over both families'' empires?


    By then, Julia''s true identity was the least of Walter''s concerns. The Bennisons, on the other hand, were a puzzle he intended to solve.


    The following day, the Sunny Glow Beauty Salon had the honor of serving a very prestigious client.


    She arrived with a subtle curve to her belly, draped in Chanel''stest winter collection-a limited edition that kept her cozy and showcased her stunning figure to perfection. That woman was none other than Evangeline.


    The moment Evangeline found out that Lydia, the one behind her mother''s tragic death, was hiding out in this beauty salon, she could not hold back her fury. Ignoring the fact that she was pregnant, she decided to scope out the ce herself. It was a cozy salon, but the service was outstanding, far better than other ces of the same size.


    That must be the secret to its sess-no big reputation, but a loyal following and a growing list of clients in no time.


    As Evangeline blinked her stunning eyes, taking in the scene, she was there on a mission: to figure out the salon''syout and where Lydia could be stashed away.


    She examined every nook and cranny with eagle eyes.


    However, as she nced down, she spotted a face beaming with shock.


    "Am I seeing things, or are you... Evangeline, Ms. Rearden? Our little princess?"


    Evangeline was baffled at first, but when she recalled the affectionate nickname her online fans used, it clicked.


    "You recognize me?"


    She had a bunch of Twitter followers, but it never interfered with her day-to-day life. The whole ''public figure'' thing had not quite sunk in for her.


    "Yep!" The girl nodded with the enthusiasm of a chick pecking at the ground. "I''m a huge fan, I absolutely adore you!"


    Meeting a far while on a stealth mission at the salon was thest thing Evangeline expected. On the other hand, maybe this could work to her advantage?This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    "Hey there, thanks so much for the love."


    After a quick thank-you, Evangeline chatted up the girl as if they were old friends.


    "How long have you been working here? This is my first visit, can I just browse around?" Evangeline''s question snapped the receptionist back to reality, reminding her that she was still on the clock. Even so, when her idol walked in, she treated her with utter respect and reverence.


    "Absolutely, feel free to explore. Our salon''s services and skincare results are top of the line, you can trust us on that."


    The receptionist shed a bright, weing smile and gestured for Evangeline to follow her, pointing out


    where to go.


    She had no idea that while the salon was a bubble of bliss, outside was like a bomb had gone off.


    Over at the Gordon Group''s president''s office...


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, we''ve got a major problem!"

 426

    Chapter 426


    In the office, Minnie was keeping Walterpany as he worked, just like any other day. However, when she spotted David''s panicked entrance, she shot him a look of confusion.


    Setting down the coffee she had just brewed for Walter, she could not help but ask, "Mr. Zimmer, what''s with the mad dash? You''re not exactly the picture of the calm, collected assistant you''re supposed to be."


    Minnie''s tone wasced with a hint of annoyance, and she carried herself with the authority of someone who ran the show.


    David was taken aback for a second, but he knew Minnie''s real standing well enough to quickly refocus on Walter.


    Walter looked up from his mountain of paperwork. "Come on, spill it. What''s got you in such a frenzy? Look, David, I''m not trying to rag on you, but you''ve got to get a grip. If you''re always this jittery, how can I trust you with the big stuff down the line?"


    David felt a bead of sweat slide down his forehead just hearing those words. He thought to himself that if Walter could stayposed after getting the scoop, he would really be impressed.


    With Minnie eavesdropping, David chose his words carefully. "Mr. Walter Gordon, my cousin dropped by yesterday afternoon, so I had to duck out early. But here''s the kicker-she''s expecting, and instead of taking it easy, she''s out there roaming the hospital halls. I mean,e on, what if she bumps into some shady doctor who messes with her baby?"


    Walter knew the score about David''s so-called cousin.


    David figured with Walter''s sharp mind, he would know what David was really saying. Walter kept his cards close to his chest, and David still could not pin down what his deal was with Evangeline. So, he yed the baby card, hoping it would get Walter''s gears turning.


    It did. Walter dropped the papers he was holding like they were hot, and his face went pale. "What are you waiting for? Go find your cousin already! She''se to you for help, and you better keep her safe! Forget this ce, you go handle your business!" Minnie watched David bolt out of there, baffled.


    When did David ever have a cousin? She was clueless, The whole exchange between the guys was off-the- wall, and she had that nagging feeling that something was up. "Walter, Mr. Zimmer is racing around like that. His cousin must mean a lot to him, huh?"


    Walter gave a half-hearted nod. "Guess so. I''ve never seen David this wound up."


    As the big boss of Gordon Group, Walter was not one to get all caught up in his employees'' personal dramas. Thus, hisid-back reaction was not out of the ordinary. However, Minnie''s fingers then lightly swept across Walter''s forehead. "What''s up? You got some work trouble? You''re sweating bullets here."T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter jerked away as if he had been zapped, scrambling for an excuse.


    "What? Me, stumped by work? No way. It''s just the AC in here-it''s like a sauna. Go turn it down, will you?"


    "Sure." Minnie shed apliant smile, did not ask any more questions, and went to fiddle with the


    thermostat.


    That was Walter''s cue. He snatched up his jacket and bolted from the office.


    David''s hints had not gone unnoticed. The thought of Evangeline stepping into that sketchy Sunny Glow Beauty Salon had his heart racing with fear. Chapter 427

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    Chapter 427


    The Bennison n was already itching to mess with the Gordons and the Fosters. With Julia stirring up chaos in his life, Walter''s world was anything but peaceful.


    So far, the Fosters had stayed clear of the Bennisons'' radar. However, if Evangeline''s little stunt gave the Bennisons a way in, Walter would never be able to forgive himself.


    Walter raced through the dimly lit corridors toward the underground parking lot, his heart pounding. Without a second thought, he took out his phone and called Evangeline.


    It had been a whole month of radio silence between them. Evangeline had heard through the grapevine about Walter''s constant hangouts with Minnie, all lovey-dovey, and she had written him off as just another jerk.


    Out of the blue, Walter was calling her.


    Evangeline''s eyes widened as she saw his name shing on her screen. This had to be some kind of joke, right?


    Her finger hovered over the answer button, but before she could tap it, the line went dead.


    What was that about? Should she call him back? Evangeline chewed on her lip, indecisive.


    Meanwhile, Walter, drenched in sweat, was practically flying to his car. He could not shake the fear that Evangeline might have gotten in touch with the Bennison family. She had no clue about the danger they represented, and if she got tangled up with them, it could spell disaster.


    No way he was going to let that happen


    With a sense of urgency, he dialed her number again, the digits etched into his memory, and started the engine.


    Each ring echoed in his ears, and with it, his anxiety spiked.


    "Evangeline,e on, pick up," he muttered under his breath.


    As if by some miracle, her voice came through, clear as day:


    "Walter, what''s up? Why are you calling?" she asked, her tone distant and detached.


    Their rtionship had frayed to the point where words seemed pointless. However, Walter needed to hear her voice more than ever at this point.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Speak if you''ve got something to say. If not, just hang up." That was the golden rule for keeping things calm between two people.


    "Are you at a ce called Sunny Glow Beauty Salon right now?"


    Walter did everything he could to keep h eavesdrop, he even whispered.


    voice steady. To make sure no one around Evangeline could


    "How''d you know that?" Evangeline was taken aback, but then it clicked. "Walter, did you send someone to follow me?" She did not need to think hard to know why Walter would do such a thing.


    "Wow, Walter, you''ve really outdone yourself. Spying on me just to catch me hanging out with Alex? That''s just low."


    The thought of Walter keeping tabs on her every move made Evangeline so mad she could almost take a bite out of the guy! "Look, I don''t have time to spell it out for you.


    "There''s a whole lot more to Sunny Glow Beauty Salon than meets the eye. I''ve got the scoop on what you''re digging into, so just leave it to me and get out of there, fast!" Walter was freaking out because he realized that showing up at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon himself would blow his cover, unlike David.


    So, the smart y was to get Evangeline to leave the salon on her own.


    "Leave it to you?" Evangelineughed bitterly. "Walter, do you even hear yourself? How long have your been on Lydia''s case, and what have you got to show for it?"

 428

    Chapter 428


    Walter was blindsided by the questions, entirely unprepared, and found himself at a loss for words.


    Evangeline did not even wait for an answer.


    "I''ll take care of my own stuff, thanks. No need for you to bother.


    "And let''s be real, you''re a busy man now, Wouldn''t want to interrupt your cozy twosome with your girlfriend, would I? That''d be on me."


    If Walter had been with any other girl but Minnie, Evangeline would not have batted an eye.


    #25 BONUS


    However, Minnie? She was so obviously ying him, and everyone could see it except, apparently, Walter. He was all over her, like they were joined at the hip.


    Evangeline had her own take on it: Walter must be really desperate!


    After she hung up, Evangeline turned to her personal stylist, Ms. Celina, with a grin of pure satisfaction and handed over her ck card.


    "Ms. Morris, what''s the full deal here? I''m thinking of getting a beauty card to pamper myself."


    With a beep, the POS machine confirmed her purchase


    Just like that, Evangeline was the newest member of the Sunny Glow Beauty Salon.


    If Walter had not called, she might never have considered it. However, after his meddling, it felt like a beauty card was just what she needed.


    Why should she take orders from Walter, anyway? Who did he think he was? Just some rejection she did not even want!


    David was racing against time, and when he finally burst through the doors of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, he saw Celina just finishing up with Evangeline''s transaction. Soaked in sweat and barely catching his breath, his face fell in defeat. Evangeline caught David''s eye and knew right away why he was there.


    She unted her beauty card at him. "Hey David, check out my shiny new beauty card. If you''re ever in the mood for a facial, it''s in the house!"


    With a smug smile, Evangeline strutted out.


    She was sure David would tell Walter what happened.


    Just imagining Walter''s face turning the color of sour grapes was enough to make her giggle uncontrobly.


    Evangeline loved her facial. Celina might have been young, but she was a professional. She spotted Evangeline''s skin issues in a sh and whipped up a skincare routine on the spot.


    While Evangeline was chilling with her face mask on, Celina snuck off for a quick break to the restroom. However, as she stepped out, she ran smack into David, who had been lurking outside like a shadow.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    "Mr. Zimmer, I''ve told you everything you wanted to know. Can you please stop creeping around here? We''re adies-only salon, and you barging in like you own the ce isn''t exactly great for our vibe!" Celina was beyond words. She thought their awkward run-inst time was the end of it. s, that guy was like a bad penny, showing up every chance he got, always asking for her.


    For days on end, the staff''s view of David had flippedpletely. They went from cold shoulders to eagerly catering to him. The looks they shot his way were then full of weird vibes.


    If things kept up like that, David''s impact would only snowball. If he caught the attention of a certain someone, well, that would spell disaster.


    "If you''d called me a clingy ghost yesterday, I wouldn''t have been able to deny it."


    David, usually as unfeeling as a stone, found himself stirred by the sight of Celina''s cheeks, red with frustration.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 429

    Chapter 429


    Maybe David had felt this way since the first time heid eyes on Celina, but it had never been as there


    it was.


    He closed the distance between them, step by deliberate step


    David was built like a linebacker among his peers, but Celina towered in her own right. Side by side, he did not even have a height advantage. However, that did not bother him. With a casual move, he cornered Celina against the corridor wall, shooting a meaningful look toward the room. "Stay away from Evangeline, the woman inside," he said


    Celina had kept quiet to avoid a scene, but once she got what David was there for, she could not help but let out a scoff.


    "So, are you going to let go of me now?"


    "You got my message?" David''s grip eased up, though he did not pull away.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Crystal clear." Seizing the moment, Celina shoved his arms aside. Once she was sure they were at a safe distance, a sly smirk yed on her lips


    "Mr. Zimmer, you used to haunt my beauty salon like a bad penny, but your game''s changed this time, you''re here to try and pull one over on me!


    "Listen up, I may have been under your thumb once, but that doesn''t mean I''m one of your Gordon Groupckeys. You better start treating me with the respect I deserve, or else I won''t be so nice!"


    Her words hit David like a rapid-fire volley, leaving him as stunned as if he had been sshed with cold


    water.


    However, David just got more fired up.


    He knew Celina was a knockout with brains to boot, but who knew she had the spice of a chili pepper, too?


    Why had he not seen that side of her before?


    "I''m actually curious, how exactly will you not be so nice to me?"


    Out of nowhere, a glint of metal caught David''s eye.


    Celina whipped out a silver needle with the ir of a magician, and with a delicate touch to her fingertip. she handled it like i was the crown jewels.


    "Mr. Zimmer, you must''ve forgotten, but I''m in the business of cosmetic medicine. People in my line of work, unlike regr doctors, need to be experts not just in the big stuff but also in sculpting their clients'' features to perfection."


    With a knowing smile, Celina took David''s hand in hers and ced the silver needle in his palm.


    "This is what I use to pin back the skin during facelifts, Consider it a keepsake. Not that it''s any good to you, of course. Chapter 429


    "As for Evangeline Gordon, the high-flying Mrs. Gordon of the Gordon n and the daring princess of the Fosters, I''m a businessman through and through. Why would I turn away a golden opportunity to cash in? If you don''t want her swinging by, you bettere up with a n yourself.


    "Time for Ms. Evangeline''s beauty mask. Got to run!"


    Celina breezed by David, making a swift exit.


    Brushing shoulders with her, David stared at the silver needle in his hand, lost in thought.


    Could this be... a love token? A silver needle?


    A smirk flickered across David''s lips before he smacked his forehead in realization.


    Evangeline was still at the salon, possibly in danger, and there he was, sidetracked by Celina''s charm, forgetting all about the big picture!


    By the time David walked in, Evangeline''s mask was off. Celina''s work for the day was wrapped up.


    "Mrs. Gordon, time to head back."

 430

    Chapter 430


    Evangeline eyed David, who stood ramrod straight at the door, with a mix of confusion and amusement as if he were aplete oddball.


    "Mr. Zimmer, why on earth should I leave with you?" Lounging on the couch, legs elegantly crossed, Evangeline''s voice dripped with azy curiosity.


    David shot a look at Celina, who clearly relished the unfolding drama, and whispered to Evangeline, "Your husband, Walter Gordon, wants a word. He''s waiting for you outside the salon." Aware of the onlookers, Evangeline knew she could not snub Walter.


    "Fine, let''s go." Evangeline grabbed her purse and strolled out of the beauty salon leisurely.


    David, who was always on edge about upsetting Walter''s wife, trailed behind her, careful to keep his distance. "Mrs. Gordon, Mr. Walter Gordon''s car is right over there."


    Evangeline nced where David pointed and saw a sleek white Rolls Royce parked at the curb-totally Walter''s style.


    Of course, why should she do what Walter wanted? She gave a dismissive wave with her purse toward the Rolls Royce and headed off in the other direction.


    "David, tell your boss I''ve got nothing to say to him. It''s over, no more talking." Her voice drifted on the breeze, yet Walter caught every word from inside the car.


    They really had nothing left to discuss. With the whole mess with Minnie still up in the air, approaching Evangeline would not do him any favors. However, Trey''smand echoed in his mind, giving him the perfect excuse to reach out to her. With that thought, Walter revved up the Rolls Royce and smoothly cut off Evangeline''s path before she could hop into her car. He rolled down the window, his handsome faceing into view. "Evangeline,e on, get in."


    She snorted. "As if I''d just hop in because you say so. Please." If it were not for Cole''s sickness, she would have had the divorce papers in her hand already.


    If she listened to Walter at this moment, she would be the biggest fool ever.


    "Evangeline, even pretense has its limits. Are you waiting for me toe out and personally escort you?" Walter''s voice had barely faded when he ditched any pretense of chivalry, flung open the car door, and grabbed Evangeline''s wrist. "Walter, are you out of your mind?" Evangeline fought back hard, "Remember, I''m pregnant!"


    Walter gave a sly grin. "Of course, I remember. So, do you really think I''d haul you into the car like I used


    to?"


    He shed a chilling smile, his white teeth gleaming ominously, sending shivers down Evangeline''s spine. In a sh, Evangeline was off her feet, swept up in Walter''s arms.


    "What are you doing?!" Her voice rang out in a mix of fear and surprise, her body writhing instinctively.


    However, her efforts were in vain against Walter''s streN?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    resist.


    In the backseat, Walter gently settled the pregnant Eva the other side to sit next to her.


    Realizing resistance was pointless, Evangeline stoppe watched Walter warily. What was he plotting?


    "Out with it, what''s your game?" Evangeline eyed the m


    He still had those strikingly handsome features she re of life''s hard knocks in those dark eyes?


    However, her efforts were in vain against Walter''s strength, with one firm move, she was left powerless to


    resist.


    In the backseat, Walter gently settled the pregnant Evangeline into the chair, then slid into the car from the other side to sit next to her.


    Realizing resistance was pointless, Evangeline stopped her fruitless struggles, tossed her bag aside, and watched Walter warily. What was he plotting? "Out with it, what''s your game?" Evangeline eyed the man before her with a frosty gaze.


    He still had those strikingly handsome features she remembered, but why did she suddenly see... a trace of life''s hard knocks in those dark eyes?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 431

    Chapter 431


    For an entire month, Walter had the stunning Minnie by his side, day in and day out, yet he looked like he had been through the wringer? No way!


    Evangeline''s eyes slowly dropped to his chin and spotted the telltale shadow of stubble.


    "Walter, when''s thest time you shaved? You''re a total mess."T��xt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline stepped back from Walter, her nose wrinkled in distaste, but she did not miss a beat to tease him, "Seeing you like this, Minnie can''t be all that great, huh? She lets her guy walk around looking like a slob..." "Really?" Walter''s voice was heavy with implication as his intense gaze fixed on Evangeline. "Well, by that logic, you''re not doing too hot either. Didn''t your guy step out looking just like this?"


    He pointed at his own stubbly chin, as if to make sure Evangeline saw.


    "And let''s not forget, legally speaking, I''m still your guy, and I''ve got nothing to do with Minnie."


    Evangeline seethed silently, her teeth clenched in frustration.


    Walter''s go-to move was always the legal jargon! All that, and she could not just fix the situation on the spot!


    So, she tried to throw shade, only to have it thrown back in her face?


    That was thest straw! She, Evangeline, would not stand for it!


    "Just a reminder, thew also says that for couples like us, who''ve been living apart for years without any emotional connection, we''re not considered to be in a real marriage anymore. So, don''t you dare try to guilt-trip me, okay?"


    "Who says we''ve had no emotional connection?" Walter pointed at the slight swell of Evangeline''s belly," Without any heart-to-heart, where did this kide from? He''s only three months old now, so what does that mean? It means thest time we had a moment, it had to be at least three months ago.


    "Of course, who can be sure of making a baby on the first shot? Plus, when youdies figure out how far along you are, there''s a two-week wiggle room..."


    Walter rambled on, but Evangeline''s eyes were getting wider by the second.


    Was the guy in front of her, looking like Walter''s twin, actually Walter? Had she mistaken him for his doppelganger, Alex?


    She rubbed her eyes in disbelief, making sure she was not seeing Alex''s wheelchair, before she faced the truth.


    The man before her, obsessing over pregnancy calctions, was indeed her husband in name, Walter.


    The reason behind that...


    A thought shed through Evangeline''s mind.


    "Walter, is your sweetheart nning to have a baby?"


    Why else would Walter, the workaholic, dive into the details of pregnancy timing?


    He even figured out the tiny detail of the two-week error...


    "What are you even saying?" Walter never caught what Evangeline meant, and the words ''I''ve neverid a hand on Minnie!'' almost escaped his lips before he choked them back.


    If Evangeline knew he had been keeping himself just for her, what would she think? She would probably be rolling on the floorughing.


    "Let''s get to the point!"


    Walter finally realized that since they had met, Evangeline had been pulling his strings, and he had not even gotten to what he wanted to say.


    "Evangeline, I need you to steer clear of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon-for good."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 432

    Chapter 432


    Walter had seen firsthand the clout of the Bennison family. He was clueless about what to expect in Avalon City or what tricks they might pull to nibble away at the Fosters'' empire.


    However, his priority was to safeguard Evangeline. Only then could he square off against that tough. adversary with a clear head.


    "Why?" Evangeline''s tone was dead serious, a stark shift from her usual demeanor.


    "That salon''s got more secrets than you can imagine. If it''s pampering you''re after, pick any spot in Avalon City. It''s on me."


    "You think the Fosters can''t afford my beauty treatments?" Evangeline scoffed, her gaze mocking as she looked at Walter, her smile widening as if he were just a clown there for her entertainment. "Walter, I''ll be going to Sunny Glow, no matter what. You''ve got your reasons, and I''ve got mine. We''ve finally got our lines drawn, and I like it that way-our lives, our rules. So let''s not start mixing things up again." Evangeline''s words rang with truth.


    Every encounter with Walter sent her heart into a tailspin, beyond her control. No matter how hard she tried, she could not fool her own feelings.


    After such a long search, she was on the verge of uncovering the truth about her mother''s unjust death, thanks to finding Lydia. She refused to back down at this point.


    However, she did not need to share any of that with Walter. They were just two strangers tied by a threadbare connection.


    The backseat of the spacious Rolls Royce could have beenfortable, but the air between them was thick with tension. Evangeline, pregnant and increasingly intolerant of such suffocating settings, decided to cut the conversation short.


    "Anything else? If that''s all, I''m getting out. My bodyguard is waiting for me across the street."


    She gestured toward the window.


    Outside, a line of six or seven tall men in ck suits stood at attention, even as the car Evangeline would soon take had been pulled up to the curb. Walterpsed into a heavy silence.


    He had not realized Evangeline''s disdain for him ran so deep. So deep that, after a month apart, given a moment alone, she could not wait to escape.


    However, since she had asked, he was not about to let her off easy.


    "There''s definitely something!" Walter dered, his voiceced with a forced authority.


    Evangeline''s brow creased with annoyance. Her pregnancy had turned her temper vtile, sparking without warning. Walter''s nagging was like fuel to the me, and her anger surged. Aware that any scene might reflect poorly on thepany, considering the bodyguards and bystanders


    outside, Evangeline reined in her rage and asked with strained patience, "So, what is it? Get on with it!"This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Without warning, Walter grabbed Evangeline''s wrists, hisrger hands easily pinning them above her head.


    Evangeline had been through that kind of thing a few times, and it never ended well for her. Panic flickered across her face as she blurted, "Walter, what are you thinking? I''m pregnant!"


    She remembered the doctor''s warning: The first three months of pregnancy were risky, and even after that, it was just the beginning of stability. The baby was still vulnerable.


    However, in an instant, Walter''s harshness melted away, reced by a careful softness in his eyes as he looked at Evangeline.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 433

    Chapter 433


    Walter''s hand that had been holding Evangeline too firmly then rested gently on her slightly swollen belly, under her stern gaze.


    It was a strange and wonderful feeling. Walter knew the baby was just a tiny, developing life, but the thought of it growing inside Evangeline, the woman he loved, filled him with warmth. That warmth flooded through him as he touched her belly, and he felt like the luckiest guy on the.


    A wave of guilt washed over him for not being there for his wife and child. He silently vowed that once he sorted out his mess, if Evangeline could still stand him, he would make it up to her and their little one. "Evangeline, take care of the baby," he said, leaving the rest unsaid. "And take care of yourself."


    He swallowed the rest of his words, knowing that Evangeline might see his promises as insincere, like a fox offering a chicken well wishes. It was better to leave them unspoken.


    Evangeline was taken aback by Walter''s sudden softness which was so at odds with his earlier aggression.


    Evangeline had never sensed even the slightest hint of fatherly warmth from Walter, but what was that moment? A sudden surge of paternal love?


    Almost instantly, she was washed over with sadness.


    Maybe, for her whole life, she would only ever feel Walter''s love through the baby growing inside her.


    Even that love was not the kind she longed for. It was the obligatory kind, the kind thates from being tied by blood, the kind any dad should feel for his kid.


    Sitting in her car, Evangeline''s mind raced, unable to settle.


    She was certain Walter''s warnings were not to be ignored..


    The case with Lydia was too deep then, and she could not afford to overlook any detail.


    Lucky for her, she had spent today''s card-signing time scoping out the entire beauty salon. She would sketch out a floor nter and send others in her stead next time. Meanwhile, at the Sunny Glow Beauty Salon entrance...


    Celina watched Evangeline and Walter''s car drive away, double-checking that David was gone too, before she slipped inside.


    Instead of heading to her usual spot to greet customers, she made a beeline for her office.


    She yanked open her desk drawer, grabbed a brand-new phone, and punched in a number without a second thought...


    ''Better I spill the beans than let you stir up a storm and get us both busted. It''s a showdown now, David, and we''ll just have to see who''s left standing, Celina mused. At the same time, over at the Gordon Group''s big boss''s office...


    Minnie had barely stepped out to flick on the AC when Walter pulled a disappearing act.


    Walter and David both bolted from the office without showing their faces, and that was just in weird. A flicker of suspicion danced in her mind.


    She tried to ring Walter right away, but his phone was just sitting there on his desk, abandoned.


    What was so important that he would dash off without his phone?All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Minnie''s heart raced with guilt, and her mind raced to the beauty salon she visited.


    However, Celina''s salon was above board, with all the right paperwork and a squeaky-clean record. She was sure that even if Walter came snooping around, he would not find a thing. The problem was her mom, Lydia, was staying there. Thatplicated matters. She had faith in Celina''s skills, but that did not mean she was ready to risk her mom over it. Lydia could not stay there any longer!

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 434

    Chapter 434


    At the Emerald of the Hignds vi.


    It was the dead of winter, but inside the vi her uncle had set up for her, Evangeline could not feel the chill. It was actually too hot forfort.


    Julieta, ever the worrier, kept a tight leash, fearing Evangeline might catch a cold. So, under the guise of getting some healthy sunshine, Evangeline snuck off to the brightest balcony when the afternoon sun was at its peak to enjoy a breath of fresh air. Rocking gently in her chair, with just a pane of ss between her and thezy sunbeams, Evangeline basked in the warmth. Her eyes nearly closed in bliss.


    Julieta came by with a te full of neatly sliced fruit and silently set it down on the coffee table right in front of Evangeline.


    "Ms. Evangeline, munching on fruit while you''re expecting is great for your baby''s skin. You''ve got to make sure you eat plenty," urged Julieta, though she had already loaded Evangeline up with more fruit than she could stomach. Just the sight of fruit made Evangeline queasy, but the ''do it for the baby'' card was one she could not y


    against.


    With a look of utter distress, she shot Julieta a re and muttered, "You''re always using the baby to guilt-trip me!"


    She grudgingly speared a chunk of cantaloupe and ate it, her eyes brimming with a mix of annoyance and charm, sounding more like she was pouting than actuallyining.


    Julieta just shrugged, a yful ''what can you do'' expression on her face. "It''s out of my hands. You''re all about the baby these days. Any other reason I give, you''d just ignore."


    Evangeline tried to smile, stretching her lips into a grin before taking another bite of melon. Maybe it was the pregnancy, but she was really digging thisid-back life-so serene and reassuring, filled to the brim with contentment.


    As she watched Julieta, smiling away, a vision of her own mother flickered before Evangeline''s eyes.


    In that instant, she knew without a doubt that Julieta was the guardian angel sent by fate to fill the void of a mother''s love she had missed.


    Evangeline did not see the tender scene between her and Julieta being quietly witnessed by a man in a wheelchair at the yard''s entrance. He waved off his driver and slowly wheeled himself in. Evangeline was in the middle of a light-hearted banter with Julieta when she spotted the visitor.


    Alex?


    Her eyes lit up with delight. Sure, she never felt alone since Julieta was always around, but the days of baby-nurturing could get pretty dull. Another person to chat with was always a wee change. "Alex, what brings you here?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    With Julieta''s help, Alex breezed through the door. Spotting Evangeline soaking up the sun on the balcony,


    he could not help but speed up, pushing his wheelchair with a new urgency.


    "I just missed you," he said, his eyes crinkling with a smile, trying to sound casual. "Evie, you''re such a heartbreaker. It''s been over a month since we hung out, and not even a single call? Are we on the outs or what?"


    Evangeline got up and gave Alex''s wheelchair a nudge, guiding it over to her rocking chair beforeing


    to a stop.


    "Of course not! I just figured you were swamped with school stuff. I didn''t want to bother you and get in the way of your work, you know?"


    She knew Alex almost as well as he knew her.


    On the outside, Alex always seemed so calm and collected. However, that was only because he had not found something-or someone-to really care about.


    When Alex did find something that grabbed his attention, he could get even more wrapped up in it than Walter ever did, and far more intense.


    As soon as Alex got back, he dove into his school projects, so Evangeline just assumed that was his top priority. She was just rxing, so why should she disturb him? However, she had no clue that Alex was actually on apletely different page, thinking the exact opposite.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 435

    Chapter 435


    "Is that really what you think?"


    Thest time they saw each other was at that cafe, right when the drama with Walter and Minnie blew up.


    Instead of leaving with him, Evangeline dashed off to find Walter, leaving Alex to wonder about all sorts of things.


    Alex knew he was closer to Walter than Evangeline was, but he had not stepped in. Would Evangeline think he was heartless? The more she pulled away, the more he could not stop thinking about her. It was not right to just show up at her ce, but he could not help himself and ended up at the vi where Evangeline was resting up for the baby.


    "Sure thing," agreed Evangeline without a second thought, and Alex felt a wave of relief. It was a relief she did not see him that way. He was worried about ruining his image in her eyes, especially when her marriage to Walter was on the rocks. If he messed up, he would regret it forever.


    Lost in his worries, Alex did not notice Evangeline''s quiet, searching look. "You didn''te all this way just to ask me that, did you?" she asked.


    "I know you''re swamped with work, and I''m just lounging around. I didn''t want to be a bother, that''s why IThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    haven''t been in touch," she said, more to herself than to him.


    However, as soon as the words left her mouth, she felt odd. Alex was her friend, and they did not need to exin those things. Why did she feel guilty over something so small?


    Then, she looked up and their eyes locked.


    Evangeline stared into a pair of eyes that were the spitting image of Walter''s, but where Walter''s eyes seemed icy and distant, Alex''s were like an endless abyss veiled in mist. No matter how hard she tried, she could not pierce through that enigmatic fog. "If I told you ''yes,'' would you feel guilty?"


    Alex''s eyes crinkled with a yful lightness that was rare for him.


    His teasing was clear as day, but Evangeline could not help but respond with earnestness.


    "Of course, I''d feel guilty," she blurted, feeling a wave of guilt wash over her just from locking eyes with him. It was such a powerful surge that it left her puzzled.


    "Okay, okay, I''ll stop messing with you," said Alex with a gentle smile, seeing the concern in Evangeline''s eyes. He smoothly changed the topic. "I actually came over to share some really exciting news with you! It''s about me. Want to take a wild guess?" Evangeline caught the twinkle of happiness in Alex''s expression and mulled it over. Whatever that big news was, it had to be something Alex was super excited about. What could he possibly be looking forward to?


    She racked her brain until a thought struck her.


    "Wait, do you... have a girlfriend now?"


    Evangeline was more invested in Alex''s love life than she cared to admit. As far as she knew, he had


    A


    never mentioned having a crush, and she had never seen him cozy up to anyone-except for Minnie, the girl he had brought back from his travels.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 436

    Chapter 436


    Evangeline had it in her head that Minnie was the new girlfriend Alex had brought home. However, it was obvious that Minnie only had eyes for Walter, and Alex was out of the picture.


    When Evangeline shared her hunch, Alex just wrinkled his brow and said, "Evie, you''re way off base! Don''t you know the awesome news? Why would you think it''s some lovey-dovey soap opera stuff?"


    Alex''s blunt way of putting things made Evangeline''s mouth twitch. She could not remember when she


    had first noticed that side of him.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    "So, you got a raise then?" She figured if romance was the wrong track, work had to be a safe bet, right? Alex let out a deep sigh, looking frustrated. "Let me give you a clue!"


    His hand, which had been resting on the wheelchair''s armrest, shifted gently onto his legs.


    That could only mean...


    Evangeline''s mind raced, and she pointed at Alex''s legs, her voice tinged with disbelief, "Your legs..."


    As she saw a shimmer in his eyes, she asked, still not quite believing, "Alex, you''re not joking, are you?"


    Ever since Alex hade back from overseas in a wheelchair, she had been careful not to pry into what had happened.


    His legs... Could there really be hope?


    "No way!" Alex shot back instantly. "I''ve been back from abroad for a while, but I''ve never stopped seeking treatment. At my checkup yesterday, the doctor said my leg nerves are starting to react to the electric shocks. It''s just that the reaction is so faint, my brain can''t pick it up yet."


    "So, what you''re saying is, even though you can''t feel your legs right now, they''re showing some reaction


    to the tests?"


    Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "So, you''re saying that if you keep up with the treatments, your legs will get better?"


    She thought of Alex as one of her closest friends, and the thought that his legs could be healed made her more ecstatic than anyone else could imagine.


    "Yeah, that''s exactly it! I just got the news from my doctor and bolted here to tell you first!"


    "This is epic news!" Evangeline beamed, her hand thoughtfully tapping her chin. "How should we celebrate? Wait, scratch that, we''ve got to tell Mr. Gordon right away!"\


    Trey was the patriarch of the Gordon family, and in her heart-to-heart with him, Evangeline could always sense his deep worry for Alex''s condition.


    As she reached for her phone to dial Trey''s number, Alex cut in, "Hold up."


    Evangeline stopped mid-dial, noticing for the first time that Alex''s earlier joy had vanished, leaving behind a frown and a ghostly pallor.


    "Evie, let''s not bother Grandpa with this little thing," he said, his voiceced with a hesitation he did not


    voice.


    Evangeline''s finger hovered over the screen, "Bother? Alex, you''re hardly ever home, so you might not see it, but Grandpa really does care about you."


    Being the neer in the Gordon household, Evangeline was blissfully unaware of the family''s long- buried secrets. It was clear from the way the Gordons treated Alex that he was not exactly the star of the family. Hardly anyone seemed to really care about the guy. Out of all the grandchildren, it was just Evangeline and Trey who actually hung out together.


    Talking with Trey, Evangeline could tell he had a soft spot for Alex. The problem was that the old man just was not great at showing it. Alex? He was as stubborn as theye, always keeping the Gordons at arm''s length, which just left Trey at a loss.

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    "Does he care about me?" Alex let out a sharp, mocking snort, his eyes frosty. "Evie, my drama with the Gordons is not your problem. Just stay out of it, okay?" "This phone call..."


    Before Evangeline knew it, Alex''s hand was over hers, and he grabbed the phone right out of her grip.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "Don''t bother calling. It''ll just make a mess for everyone."


    Evangeline was shocked. She remembered Alex as that smooth, polite guy, not that... dictator.


    She wanted to say something, to stick up for Trey, but the storm brewing in Alex''s dark eyes stopped her. The words just would note out. No one could understand someone''s pain if they had not lived it.


    She had no clue what Alex had been through with the Gordons, and maybe she was not in any position to push him toward making up with Trey. "Okay, I won''t tell Mr. Gordon. Let''s keep this our little secret, okay?"


    Somehow, she just knew that keeping quiet would make Alex smile. All she wanted was to see a glimmer of happiness in his eyes.


    Deep down, she had that nagging feeling that Alex''s life with the Gordons was just as tough as hers with the Reardens.


    "Alex," said Evangeline, her gaze locked with his, "I can tell you''ve been through a lot with the Gordons. Would you want to talk about it?" She kept her voice gentle, trying to sound more like she was asking than demanding.


    She had always seen Alex as someone with a lot of pride, and pushing him to spill his secrets felt like pouring salt on an open wound.


    However, as she looked into his eyes, so full of quiet strength, and noticed his hands balled into tight fists, she wondered if maybe she was wrong. Maybe letting it all out would actually be a relief for him. However, no matter what she thought, it was Alex''s feelings that mattered most.


    "Look, if you don''t want to talk, that''s fine. I just see that you''re really down, and as your good friend, it makes me want to do something-anything-to help you out."


    Evangeline did not want to corner him, so she quickly backed off, giving him space to think.


    Alex seemed to freeze for a second, but he snapped back to reality and gave Evangeline a little wave. "All that stuff is history, and there is no point in dredging it up again. As for how I''m feeling..." Alex''s eyes slowly rose, and a flicker of light danced in the depths of his dark gaze.


    "Evie, I''m seriously on cloud nine right now."


    Without even realizing it, Evangeline found herself drawn to the mystery in Alex''s eyes, inching closer.


    She had never seen Alex anything but broody, and she was curious about the source of that unexpected twinkle.


    However, as she leaned in, Alex''s dark pupils expanded. Suddenly, a beautiful, endearing face was reflected in his eyes.


    Her heart started racing, beyond her control.


    "Ms. Evangeline, Mr. Alex Gordon''s coffee is all set. Would you like something to drink? Maybe your usual lemon water with an extra spoonful of sugar?"

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    Julieta''s voice cut through the air, yanking Evangeline back to reality.


    It was only then she realized she was too close to Alex, way closer than a sister-inw should be to her husband''s brother. It was way beyond what friends would consider normal. Her move was out of line.


    "Ah, lemon water would be great, thanks. And yeah, pile on the sugar." Snapping out of it, Evangeline quickly put some space between her and Alex, settling back into her rocking chair. Alex seemed unfazed, however. "Evie, what''s up?"


    Julieta had just delivered their drinks when Evangeline excused herself to the restroom, asking Julieta to keep their guestpany for a moment before she dashed away.


    In the restroom, Evangeline''s heart raced, thumping against her chest as if trying to escape. She could not believe it-the twinkle in Alex''s eyes, it was because of her!


    Or was she just reading too much into it?


    Alex always hung out with her like they were nothing more than friends. Maybe it was just her early pregnancy jitters, making her extra sensitive and a bit of a daydreamer since she was on her own. However, the more she thought about it, the more convinced she became that she was right.


    They had been best friends for ages and knew each other inside out. With Walter in the mix, there was no way any forbidden sparks could fly, right?


    Little did she know, Alex was anything but calm. It took all his willpower not to wrap his arms around her and steal a kiss the moment she leaned in close, all innocent and unaware.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    He had fallen for her, hard. From the first time heid eyes on her, Evangeline-with her mix of spunk, charm, and poise-had crept into his heart. She left him utterly enchanted, poisoned by her presence, yet unwilling to let her go.


    Alex had always carried a torch for Evangeline, but he kept his feelings locked away deep inside once he realized she only saw him as a friend. When she finally married her dream guy, Walter, Alex settled into the role of the ever-reliable friend, missing his chance to tell her how he truly felt.


    He had resigned himself to the idea that he would never be more than a friend to Evangeline. However, as fate would have it, Walter turned out to be clueless about the treasure he had in Evangeline, letting her down and making her cry more times than Alex could stand. This time, Alex was determined not to step back.


    He had only been to the vi once before and did not really know Julieta well. They were just faces to each other, with hardly anything to say.


    After a brief and awkward chat, Julieta hung back, leaving Alex to his thoughts.


    Evangeline was taking longer than usual toe back and Alex could not help but worry. He was not concerned for her safety. He was more worried that their recent closeness might have spooked her, making it even tougher for him to get close to her heart


    Alex was eager for Evangeline to return, to see her smiling face and know everything was okay.


    With that in mind, he mentioned he had not really checked out the


    around by himself.


    yet and decided to take a look


    Julieta, picking up on the vibes between Evangeline and Alex, excused herself, leaving the path clear for whatever might happen next.


    In the restroom, Evangeline had been giving herself a pep talk. She was about to head out when her phone rang with a ringtone that was anything but ordinary.

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    It snagged Evangeline''s attention, and she picked up without a second thought.


    "Could it be an update on Lydia''s location?" Evangeline asked, her voice thrumming with hope.


    Since the day she had scoped out Sunny Glow Beauty Salon and sketched out a map of itsyout for Snow Wolf, all had been quiet on his end. That unexpected call had her mind racing. Could it be the break they needed?


    She was right. A cheerful male voice greeted her from the other end.


    "Yes, we should''ve had news sooner, but we hit a snag Snow Wolf admitted, pausing for a moment before diving back in. "The map you handed over was just a slice of the salon''s real footprint. We had to crack their system wide open to snatch the hidden part of the blueprint they were sitting on.


    "Now we''re pretty sure there''s a secret door tucked away in the back of the director''s office. And Lydia, the one you''ve been chasing shadows to find, is holed up in a room right behind that door."


    Lydia''s disappearance had stretched on far too long, and the surge of relief at the prospect of finding her was too intense for words.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "I can''t thank you enough. Lydia means the world to me. Without you, who knows when I''d have tracked her down? Looks like my crew needs to step up their game," Evangeline mused, a mix of gratitude and resolve in her voice.


    Snow Wolf could not help but jump to the defense of her team. "The mastermind behind Lydia''s disappearance was a real professional, slipping through the government''s digital defenses like a ghost. No matter how you sliced it, you''d never find the hidden room they stashed her in.


    "So don''t overthink it. It''s not that your subordinates are ipetent, it''s that the enemy is too cunning!"


    She could not help but crack up, and she shot back, "Does that mean you were able to figure it out because you''re even more cunning than they are?"


    Frankly, ''cunning'' was not exactly a gold star in the vocabry parade.


    Snow Wolf took her ribbing like a champ and replied, "Nah, it''s not about being sly. I''ve just got a horseshoe or something-I''m way luckier than they are."


    Remembering Alex was cooling his heels on the balcony, she cut the call short. She made a beeline for the bathroom, reaching for the door handle on autopilot, only to find the door swung open at a touch.


    What was the deal? Did she forget to close it?


    ming her baby brain, she did not dwell on it and stepped back out.


    However, the balcony was empty, wheelchair and all. Even the coffee Julieta had brought up for Alex was


    gone.


    Confused, she gged down Julieta. "Hey, where''d Alex go? Did he vanish while I was in the bathroom?"


    "Ms. Evangeline, Mr. Alex Gordon had to rush off because of some urgent business. He zoomed out of here so fast that I didn''t even think to stop him. If I''d known you''d be back this quickly, I would''ve tried to keep him here a bit longer. He barely stepped out when you showed up. Hope you don''t think I was a lousy


    host or anything."


    She eyed Evangeline with a hint of worry.


    With Evangeline taking it easy for the baby''s sake, visitors were a rare sight. Just when Alex finally dropped by, he took off early, despite her efforts to be weing. What was that all about?

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    "What''s there to worry about?"


    Evangeline brushed it off without a second thought.


    She and Alex were close, so there was no need to sweat the small stuff.


    Watching Julieta fussing over everything, Evangeline could not help but reassure her, "Mrs. Lewis, we''re close, you know. Just treat him like you''d treat me. Forget all that fancy etiquette."


    "Ms. Evangeline, hearing you say that puts my mind at ease."


    Julieta handed her a ss of lemon water from the coffee table. "Time for your lemon water! You have to keep up with that vitamin C for the little one. No more being stubborn once you''re a mom, okay?"


    Evangeline''s lips quirked at the sight of the lemon slices bobbing in the ss. This pregnancy felt more like a trial than a joy.


    She took the ss, took a deep breath, and downed a hearty swig, only to hear Julieta''s constant chatter by her side.


    "Mr. Alex Gordon was such a loss, all suave and kind-hearted. If only his legs were as strong as his character, he''d outshine Mr. Walter Gordon by miles. Ms. Evangeline, you told me Mr. Alex and Mr. Walter are like two peas in a pod, looks-wise. So why, oh why, did you fall head over heels for Walter in the first ce?


    "Imagine how much heartache you could''ve spared yourself if you''d gone for Alex."This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Julieta''s words hit Evangeline like a ton of bricks. Suddenly, the lemon she was munching on did not taste


    so sour anymore.


    After all, she was the real sourpuss.


    She had asked herself over and over, what in the world was she thinking? Out of two identical faces, she had to fall for Walter, the charming rogue.


    Was that some kind of twisted fate?


    Liking someone was just that-liking them. No matter how much Evangeline wrestled with her feelings, she could not rewrite the ending. Especially with how things had gone that far, backing out was no longer an option.


    Her pale, soft hand caressed her swollen belly, her eyes fluttering shut. However, she could vividly picture Walter gazing at her with nothing but adoration.


    His hand, warm and reassuring, had once rested on her belly, the heat of his touch seeping through her thin shirt. She remembered it so clearly that it still sent shivers down her spine.


    It was a simple touch, and she was head over heels all over again...


    With a deep sigh, Evangeline came to terms with her reality.


    She was in it for the long haul.


    At the Avalon University Music Department dorms, life went on.


    Alex was a star recruit, handpicked by the principal, which meant his living situation was rather specialpared to other teachers. While most shared rooms, Alex had a single all to himself. It was more like a mini-apartment: roomy, bright, and cozy-just grab the bags and move in.


    They even gave him a room on the first floor, super convenient for getting in and out.


    Nighttime in Avalon City brought a dim glow from the streetlights, casting a solitary and proud shadow of a tall, good-looking guy.


    The city was known for its mild winters. Snow was a rare guest even when the calendar said it should be freezing.


    However, tonight, of all nights, it decided to snow. Snowkes danced wildly in the night wind, filling the sky with a wintry ballet.


    Walter stood still in the blizzard, waiting for someone-his close-knit older brother, Alex.


    The cold was turning him into an ice sculpture, but he fought off the shivers, lighting up a cigarette. The smoke curled up, sending waves of warmth through him, making the cold just a tad more tolerable.


    Out of nowhere, a white Toyota cut through the snowstorm, pulling up smoothly at the dorm''s entrance.

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    The driver was the first to step out. He went around to the back seat, with the precision of routine, and ced a wheelchair on the ground. Then he reached back into the car, gently lifting the passenger out in a smooth, practiced move. He had done that so many times that he could probably do it blindfolded, always making sure his boss wasfy in the chair.


    However, a sudden gust of wind swept through the night, sending the unbraked wheelchair off course. The driver paused, the empty air under his arms telling him something had gone wrong.


    "Sorry, Mr. Alex Gordon, the wind''s taken your wheelchair for a spin. Hang tight in the car, I''ll go grab it."


    No sooner had the driver''s words faded than he caught sight of the runaway wheelchair making its way back, escorted by a man in a crisp white jacket.


    "Then..."


    His eyes, filled with gratitude,nded on the man''s face, but he could only get one syble out before he was rooted to the spot in shock.


    The resemnce was uncanny. The man could have been Alex''s twin..


    Alex, catching sight of the neer, shifted his gaze from Walter''s hands on the wheelchair to his driver.


    "Hey, could you put me down?"


    He should have been like Walter, free to stand in the breeze, under the glow of the streetlights. He should have been able to go wherever his legs could take him, doing whatever he fancied. However, while Walter was still living that life, Alex was stuck depending on a driver he paid to get him


    around.


    Finally catching on, the driver secured the wheelchair and gently lowered Alex into it.


    Alex''s eyes never left Walter''s face, and with a knowing look, he gestured to his driver.


    "Meet Walter, my brother. With him here, you can head back. Juste back for work tomorrow, same as always."


    After the driver pulled away, Walter wheeled Alex inside.


    The brothers, mirror images of each other, made their way into the bright, airy room.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Alex, ying the good host despite his limitations, said, "I can''t get around much, but make yourself at home. There''s water and drinks in the fridge-take whatever you like."


    Alex had been running around all day. He finally got a moment to himself, loosened his tie, and stretched his arms, trying to shake off the weariness that clung to his body like a second skin.


    "You don''t have to do anything. I''m here to talk, and once I''ve said my piece, I''ll be out of your hair.


    Walter was sprawled on the couch, his dark eyes piercing with an intensity that was almost chilling. They had never been on good terms, and Alex was not clueless. He had a good idea why Walter had Chapter 441


    shown up out of the blue.


    25 DONUS


    "Fine, let''s hear it," said Alex, halting his movements and giving Walter his full attention.


    "Alex, you do realize that Evangeline and I haven''t signed the divorce papers yet, right?"


    A flicker of something passed through Alex''s eyes. "Yeah, I''m aware."


    "And are you also aware that Evangeline is pregnant with my child?"


    with


    Alex faced Walter''s interrogation calm that bordered on defiance. With a single hand, he undid his shirt cuff and rolled it up with an elegance that seemed out of ce in the tension-filled room. "Yeah, I know that too." "So, knowing all that, why are


    u still cozying up to Evangeline? Alex, she''s your sister-inw. Aren''t you worried that if you two get too close, the paparazzi will have a field day with it online?" Chapter

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    Chapter 442


    Walter''s voice was loud and carried a moral weight. He had sought out Alex because he had intended to visit Evangeline at the Emerald of the Hignds vi himself, only to find Alex already on his way out.


    He just could not wrap his head around it. Despite his countless warnings, Alex did not back down. In fact, he doubled down. He ignored the fact that he was confined to a wheelchair and trekked across half of Avalon City just to see Evangeline! However, when Walter confronted him, all he got in return was a sharp, mockingugh.


    Alex let out augh that was as biting as ice, dripping with . "Walter, seriously, what right do you have to stand there and question me?"


    There he was, sitting in his wheelchair, propping up his chin with one hand, the other hand wrapped around his wrist, fingers ying with something.


    In the re of the bright lights, something sparkled so intensely that Walter had to squint to make out that it was a watch.


    However, it did not matter what Alex was wearing at the moment. The real issue was his question....


    The word ''right'' hit Walter like a sledgehammer to the chest.


    Evangeline''s Increasingly icy stare haunted his thoughts, making the pain in his chest even sharper.


    Did he have any right to question her, to be by her side?


    Yes, he did!


    A determined gleam sparked in Walter''s eyes. "Why wouldn''t I have the right? I''m her husband, and I''m the father of the child she''s carrying....


    Before Walter could finish, Alex cut him off.


    "Yeah, and that''s about all you are." Alex casually stroked the watch on his wrist and spoke indifferently. Oh Walter, my dear brother, you''ve been the golden boy since the day you were born, Grandpa''s favorite. But sometimes, I can''t help but think, you''re kind of a sad figure, aren''t you?"


    Walter had always been on top of the world, untouchable. He could scarcely believe it-he was hearing pity in Alex''s voice!N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Why would he, Walter, need pity? Since when did Alex have the right to pity him?


    Alex, the guy who was never Trey''s favorite, the one the Gordon family cousins loved to pick on, was then looking at him with those pitying eyes and that infuriating calm?


    Without even realizing it, Walter''s hands balled into fists, ready tosh out, but Alex spoke again, "Ever wonder just how pitiful you are?"


    Alex''sughter broke through as he saw the bewilderment swirling in Walter''s eyes. It was a booming. mockingugh.


    "If you''re clueless, let me spell it out for you. Do you have any idea why Evangeline, your wife, married you? Chapter 442


    Walter stood there, stunned, his thoughts racing to now


    Trey had been the one to set up their marriage.


    At the start, he could not stand Evangeline, the woman her, he had done some pretty low things.


    He had not given it much thought, all the things they ha


    However, Alex''s words had unleashed a torrent of doul


    Evangeline had always been so sweet and kind to Alex, Whenever they were both with Evangeline, she always s If none of that was enough to prove something was off not ignore, no matter how much he might want to Chapter 442


    Q-25 BONUS


    Walter stood there, stunned, his thoughts racing to nowhere.


    Trey had been the one to set up their marriage.


    At the start, he could not stand Evangeline, the woman who had trapped him into that marriage. To spite her, he had done some pretty low things.


    He had not given it much thought, all the things they had been through


    However, Alex''s words had unleashed a torrent of doubts that were then flooding his mind.


    Evangeline had always been so sweet and kind to Alex, but with Walter, it was a whole different story. Whenever they were both with Evangeline, she always seemed to prefer Alex''spany.


    If none of that was enough to prove something was off, there was one undeniable fact that Walter could not ignore, no matter how much he might want to.

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    Evangeline was into Alex.


    The second the thought hit Walter, it was like unleashing a storm from Pandora''s box, doubts he had never even considered started to swarm. hand


    Why, if Evangeline was into Alex, did she end up marrying him?


    Walter eyed the calm-looking Alex and demanded through clenched teeth, "Do you know the reason?"


    He had that eerie feeling that Alex''s answer would not be anything he wanted to hear.


    "Of course, I do." Alex nudged his wheelchair forward, inching closer to where Walter stood.


    In no time, Alex was right in front of him.


    Perched in his wheelchair, Alex seemed to loom a few inches above Walter, who was slouched on the


    couch.


    With that slight height advantage, Alex reached out and yanked Walter by the cor. "If you''re so eager to know, I''ll spell it out for you."


    Alex leaned in, his face almost brushing against Walter''s, his gaze locked and a sly smile spreading as he dropped the bombshell. "Because... Evie married the wrong guy.


    "Walter, like it or not, Evie''s heart was always with me. You got to marry her and live this life with her because you stepped into my shoes!" Alex''s words hit Walter like a rapid-fire volley, each one striking his heart with deadly uracy.


    As the echo of Alex''s words died down, Walter''s heart felt hollow...


    The truth that Evangeline had feelings for Alex all this time was like a cover-up he had been hiding behind.


    The protective veil of ignorance was yanked away by Alex with such force that Walter felt a sting in his cheeks. The puzzle pieces in his heart clicked into ce, forming a picture he could not deny: Evangeline''s heart belonged to Alex. She had said ''I do to the wrong guy. Walter''s thoughts were a broken record, stuck on that revtion. However, as he reyed the memory of Alex striding away from Evangeline''s vi, a lump formed in his throat. He swallowed hard, his voice barely a whisper as he said, "So, you''re trying to win Evangeline back now, huh?"


    "Exactly," Alex shot back, no hesitation in his voice. "Walter, you''re clueless. You had Evie and didn''t treasure her. Just for that, I can''t let her go back to you... ever."


    "No!" The word burst from Walter, a reflex of denial.


    Something felt off. Sure, Alex loved Evangeline, and she loved him back. With Walter and Evangeline on the brink of a divorce, what was so wrong about them chasing their own slice of happiness? Even so, what about him?


    "Alex, we''re creatures of emotion. Maybe Evangeline did fall for you first, maybe she did marry the wrongN?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    -75 BONUS


    guy. However, we''ve shared a life together. How can you be so sure she hasn''te to love me?" Walter clung to that hope.


    That had to be it. Walter had not been smitten with Evangeline from the start, but he had fallen for her along the way. He would do anything for her


    Alex chuckled. "So tell me, Walter, what has Evie ever done to make you believe she''s into you?"


    "She''s pregnant with my child, having my kids-doesn''t that prove everything? Walter''s voice boomed with false bravado, but inside, he was a bundle of nerves Chapter 444

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    Chapter 444


    Walter figured that even if Evangeline did not adore him as she did Alex, the fact that they shared a child had to mean she felt something for him, right?


    "Hahaha!" Alex''sughter rang out, unrestrained and so full of mirth that he almost cried.


    He let go of Walter''s cor, stepping back to put some space between them.


    "Walter, do you even buy that excuse?"


    Before Walter could muster a response, Alex''s icy voice cut through again, "Do you really not know why Evie kept the child? Cole might be clueless, but you? Quit lying to yourself, okay? My dear brother!" The words ''dear brother dripped with a warmth that did not reach Walter''s ears; all he heard was biting


    sarcasm.


    Alex''s probing questions lingered, but the truth had always been buried in Walter''s heart.


    Evangeline had only decided to keep the child because of Cole''s illness. If it were not for that, she would" never have agreed to have his child.


    Walter could not recall how he left Alex''s dorm building.


    He felt like a lost soul, desperately trying to float to where Evangeline was, only to face the harsh truth that he had been the fool all along.


    In a twisted turn of fate, Evangeline knew her heart belonged to Alex. Walter, the man who prided himself on being unfeeling, had inadvertently let his own heart slip away.


    Who could possibly understand the ache that gnawed at his heart, the kind that made him wish he could just rip it out to stop the pain? How did he even begin to ease something like that?


    What Walter did not realize was that Alex, the guy who had set off that whole mess, was not as tranquil as he portrayed when he was alone in his dorm room.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Once Walter had shuffled out, looking totally lost, Alex mmed the door shut and wheeled himself over to the fridge in record time. He poured himself a ss of ice water and downed it in one go, the chill sting straight to his brain and dousing the inner fire. What had he even said?


    The confrontation reyed in Alex''s mind like a scene from some ssic film, and the ss slipped from his grasp.


    It hit the floor with a loud snap, echoing sharply in the stillness of the night, making Alex''s soul shiver.


    His eyes snapped back into focus, the earlier panic fading as if it had been a bad dream.


    It was Walter who did not know what he had, Walter who owed him. So why did Alex feel that twinge of guilt?


    Life could be so brutally unfair.


    He knew his mother''s reputation was not the best, and that his own broody nature was not exactly winning him any poprity contests. However, he did not ask for much, did he?


    All he ever wanted was a happy life with his mother, but what did he get instead?


    After bending over backward to win his father''s approval, just when he thought his mom would finallye home, he was met with nothing but her cold, lifeless body. Everyone who had known her, they all had their high and mighty words to say. Even his father just told him to keep it together, before running off to the next woman.


    The woman in question was Walter''s mom, Aria!


    Later on, during Mr. Loberni''s lessons, he fell for Evangeline, who was still just a kid but super cute. He figured back then that he would do anything to be with her. Even if it meant giving up his spot as the Gordon family''s second-inmand, he was down for it. Chapter 445

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    However, how did things turn out? Evangeline went straight to Cole and said she wanted to marry Walter, and Walter was all she ever talked about


    Then, Walter had taken Evangeline for granted, leaving her shattered. He adored her and could not stand seeing her so torn up. He wanted her to lean on him, to heal her broken heart. How could that have been wrong? No, he was not the one at fault there!


    If anyone was to me, it was all on Walter. He never should have married Evangeline, never should have taken her for granted, and definitely should not have gotten her pregnant!


    Just thinking about that kid growing so boldly inside Evangeline''s belly made Alex seethe with rage. It was like an itch he could not scratch!


    Sunny Glow Beauty Salon.


    Lydia''s frown could have cut steel as she listened to her minions report back to her.


    For the sake of her beloved daughter''s marriage to Walter, and to exact her revenge, she had been determined to get rid of Evangeline''s baby no matter what.


    However, thetest news was that ever since Evangeline had gotten pregnant, she had rarely been seen.


    Lydia''s only outing recently had been a trip to Sunny Glow Beauty Salon for some pampering. If only she had known then that Minnie and Walter were an item, she would have nipped that budding romance in the bud.


    Stuck with an identity that did not exactly scream ''social butterfly, Lydia mulled it over and finally decided to call Minnie.


    Minnie had barely flicked on the AC when Walter vanished into thin air, not to be seen or heard from all night. No texts, no calls-Minnie was freaking out.


    It was not until she spotted Walter looking like a zombie the next morning at the office that she sighed in


    relief.


    After some care and attention, Minnie had Walter tucked away in the break room, all set for a little romance. She had even started undoing his shirt buttons when her phone had to go and ruin the moment.


    It was her mom. Minnie rolled her eyes so hard they nearly got stuck. s, with Walter sleeping, she tiptoed to the restroom to take the call, not wanting to wake him.


    "Mom, seriously? Why are you calling now? You''re about to blow my big chance!"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    It was the perfect setup. Walter was out cold, and the human chaperone, David, was nowhere to be found. If she could not make her move on Walter at this moment, she would be selling herself short as a woman. Lydia listened to her daughter''s exasperated voice and figured she had just stopped her from executing a romantic moment. She felt a twinge of guilt for interrupting what she thought was a cozy moment between the two, but her need to talk was pressing, and she could not afford to wait.


    1.2


    -25 BONUS


    "Let''s wrap this up quickly," her voiceced with urgency. "The person you sent me can''t track down Evangeline, that sneaky brat. Ever since she holed up in her vi to take care of her pregnancy, she''s been like a ghost. Can you lure her out somehow? If Evangeline so much as peeks out where our guys can see her, I''ll make her regret it big time!"


    Minnie was all in with that n. Her grudge against Evangeline ran bone-deep.


    Because of Evangeline, Minnie had lost Walt''s love and had to masquerade as someone else just to stay close to Walter. Because of her, Minnie and her mom were left without a home, their little family torn apart and unable toe together.


    Evangeline had to go-for good. That was the only way Minnie''s rage would be quelled.

 446

    Chapter 446


    "Leave this to me," dered Minnie with a triumphant smirk. "Just wait for the news."


    She hung up and thought of Walter, still snoozing in the lounge, and picked up her pace.


    However, as soon as she entered the office, there was David, ever the loyal guard at the lounge door.


    The sight of him made her blood boil, and she stomped her foot in silent fury.


    David was a thorn in her side, always messing up her ns. She needed to find a way to convince Walter to give him the boot.


    Still, Minnie greeted David with a dazzling smile. "Morning, Mr. Zimmer."


    David nodded, blocking her path to the lounge with a polite but firm stance. "Ms. Kast, the boss is sleeping in there, and it''s probably best not to wake him"


    Minnie holding up the cup of warm water. "No worries, I''m just dropping off some water for Walter so he''s not parched when he wakes up. I won''t make a peep, promise."


    Minnie was ready to tiptoe into the resting room, but David was not having any of it. "How about we hold off on that? If Mr. Walter Gordon''s thirsty when hees to, you can always bring the water then."


    Walter had made it crystal clear to David: No alone time with Minnie when he was not fully alert.


    David might not have known the drama fromst night, but he had Walter''s orders etched in his brain. Whatever went down before he got there was out of his hands, but since he was on watch at this moment, no way was he letting any no-no''s happen on his watch.


    "Mr. Zimmer, do you have to be so distant?" Minnie''s cheeks red up. "Did you forget who I am? I''m going to be Mrs. Gordon, the big cheese of the Gordon family. You keep this up, and once Walter and I tie the knot, I''ll make sure to have a little chat with him about you. How do you like them apples?"


    Right then, she was itching for David to take a hike, to just scram.


    However, her threats bounced off David like he was made of Teflon. "If that''s how you see it, Ms. Kast, let me break it down for you.


    "First off, the would-be Mrs. Gordon and the actual Mrs. Gordon are worlds apart. Knowing who you are is the key to standing tall, no matter where you are.


    "Secondly, I''ve been on Mr. Walter Gordon''s team for years, and I get what he''s about. He''d only let me go if I wasn''t cutting it, not over some petty gossip. If you''re sticking around Mr. Walter Gordon with that kind of mindset, Ms. Kast, you might want to watch your step. "Lastly, as Mr. Walter Gordon''s right-hand person, looking after his meals and day-to-day is my gig. If you''ve got something to say to Mr. Walter Gordon, you''ll just have to wait until he''s up and about to say it!"


    Davidid out his three-point defense like a pro, and as he wrapped up, Minnie had that sinking feeling that she was the real joke there.


    Her cheeks burning with a mix of fury and shame, she balled up her fists. Her pretty eyes were aze with


    rage.


    "David, don''t you dare think you can just dodge the bullet!"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    David let out a mockingugh and stood his ground, telling her, "Sorry, Ms. Kast. I don''t y by those rules. I only take what Mr. Walter Gordon hands me." Chapter 447

 447

    Chapter 447


    "You... you''re way out of line!"


    Minnie was panting with frustration when she slipped. The ss she was holding crashed to the floor.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Shards and sshes went flying, turning the spick-and-span office into a bit of a disaster zone.


    Anyone else would have been mortified after spilling their drink, scrambling to wipe up the mess before anyone noticed. However, Minnie was not just anyone. She was sure of her special status, and Walter adored her too much to ever let her deal with such trivialities. With only the bothersome David around, he was the obvious choice to handle the situation.


    "Mr. Zimmer, didn''t your boss, Mr. Walter Gordon, tell you to look after me? So shouldn''t you be the one to clean this up?" she said, her voice dripping with condescension as she rolled her eyes at him. She expected David to flush with anger and reluctantly tidy up her mess.


    To her surprise, David just shed a warm, inviting smile and gestured politely. "Absolutely, Ms. Kast. Please, take a seat over there and rx. I''ll take care of this."


    Minnie huffed and strutted to the sofa in her heels, sitting with her back straight as a rod. Yet, her gaze never left David. She was curious to see how he would manage the chaos she had left on the floor. If he did the cleaning, he would have to open the lounge door, and that would be her chance to slip inside.


    However, as she waited, David showed no sign of getting his hands dirty. Instead, right in front of her, he made a call.


    "Cleaning department? Could you send someone to the president''s office? And bring the right gear for broken ss. We wouldn''t want anyone getting hurt."


    David was not going to clean it up himself. He was calling in the actual workers.


    Minnie''s perfect n hadpletely backfired, and she was fuming-so mad she thought she was about to turn into the Hulk. She rushed over to David, ready to give him a piece of her mind.


    "Mr. Zimmer, when did I ask you to pawn off your job on someone else? I told you to pick up these pieces yourself. Are you listening?"


    David looked up slowly, his eyes brimming with confusion. "Ms. Kast, I''m here to help Mr. Walter Gordon with thepany''s business, not to y janitor. We''ve got pros for that kind of work. You smashed the ss, so what''s the big deal with me calling the cleaningdy to deal with it?


    "There''s no big deal." Minnie snapped back, "I just wanted you to get your hands dirty! Got a problem with that?"


    She stood there, arms crossed, looking like she was watching her favorite drama unfold, smirking at David.


    "Yeah, I''ve got a problem!" David shot back instantly, his usual easygoing demeanor gone.


    However, Minnie was not done insulting him.


    "Mr. Zimmer, if Mr. Walter Gordon himself asked you to do this, would you say no? You''d do it in a


    heartbeat, right? Arguing with me is just in disrespectful, and once Walter is awake, you better believe ��l make sure you regret it. If I don''t, my name isn''t Kast


    "Feel free to change your name, then," a deep voice, tinged with a hint of weariness, out in from behind


    them.


    Minnie and David turned around. There was Walter, looking haggard

 448

    Chapter 448


    When Minnie''s water cup shattered against the floor, Walter''s eyes snapped open. He was dead tired and did not jump out of bed right away. However, he had not counted on the escting shouting match between his assistant and a girl, which got so loud that not even


    burying his head under the covers could muffle their bickering.


    Finally fed up, Walter stomped over to the doorway just in time to catch Minnie''s dramatic deration.


    David, meanwhile, looked down, wisely choosing to stay out of it.


    Realizing Walter had overheard her, Minnie''s face went white with embarrassment.


    With David still there, smirking at the drama, Minnie felt her cheeks burn. She had no choice but to face the music, even if she had to fake her bravery.


    However, with Walter, she could not be as bold as she was with David.


    Her eve


    eyes danced with a soft light, and she shed a coy smile, quickly steering the conversation elsewhere. "Walter, when did you wake up? You were up sotest night, why not sleep a little more?"


    Mentioning sleep was thest straw for Walter, and he was suddenly seething. "Did I want to be awake? Are you clueless about the racket you were making right outside my door?"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    He had been wandering the streets all night, restless thanks to Alex. All he wanted was to crash at thepany for some peace. Instead, he got an earful from those two!


    He was trying to sleep, not y dead. Did they even consider his feelings while they were at each other''s throats?


    David and Minnie, realizing they were in the wrong, lowered their heads in shame.


    Minnie, eager to set herself apart from David, slipped her arm through Walter''s with a flirtatious flutter of her eyshes. "Oops, so sorry, we didn''t mean to wake you. We''ll be quiet now. How about you go back to bed, huh?"


    Minnie would rather take her chances with David, whom she could easily wrap around her finger, than go toe-to-toe with Walter, who was as terrifying as a dragon guarding its hoard. She was not one for ying fair. As long as she came out on top, who cared about the rules?


    "Oh, no."


    However, Walter did not believe Minnie. With a swift move, he shrugged off her clingy hands and sent her stumbling back just as she tried to cozy up to him.


    Ignoring the chaos around them, Walter marched over to the couch and sat down with authority. He casually pulled out a cigarette and lighter, flicked a me to life, and took a long drag. Through the swirling smoke, he fixed a frosty stare on the pair. "Get over here, both of you." Walter''s vo


    cut through the haze, his eyes sharp as ice picks


    "Look at you twol My assistant and my secretary, squabbling by my door when you should be finding ways to make my life easier. What''s the big idea? What''s this fight about, huh?"


    He kicked back, legs crossed, his expression as stormy as a tempestuous sea. He was clearly in no mood


    to let that go without answers.


    Minnie knew she was walking on thin ice. If David spoke first, Walter might not take her side. Thus, she decided to strike first and set the stage in her favor. That way, whatever David said next would not hold much weight with Walter. Resolved, Minnie cleared her throat, ready to spin her tale. However, her eyes betrayed her, welling up before she could even begin.


    "Walter, let me exin. You were snoozing in the break room, and I thought I''d bring you a ss of water for when you woke up. However, Mr. Zimmer was like a guard dog at the door, and no matter what I said, he wouldn''t budge..."

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    Chapter 449


    "So, you decided to throw a tantrum and smash the cup?" Walter, piecing together the scene he stumbled upon earlier, cut Minnie off mid-sentence.


    "No way!"


    Minnie was close to tears, her voice quivering. Walter''s usation stung, and even if she had done it on purpose, she could not own up to that.


    "It was a clumsy mistake, the cup just slipped." As she spoke, Minnie''s tears started to fall, and she hurriedly fessed up to Walter.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    "Walter, please don''t be mad. It''s all on me. I''m big enough to know better, yet I can''t even hold onto a cup. Not only did I break it, but I also woke you up...


    Minnie, already a picture of innocence, put on her most woeful face, which was usually enough to melt anyone''s heart.


    However, in the CEO''s office, only Walter and David were present, and they were no strangers to Minnie''s sob stories. Instead of feeling sympathy, they were almost tempted to push her further, just to see a more dramatic disy of tears. It was a sight to behold. Walter felt a twinge of guilt for even thinking that way. Minnie was a woman, after all, and it was not right to want to see her distressed.


    "Okay, okay, it''s just a cup, nothing priceless. I''m not that uptight, am I?"


    His eyebrows, sharp as des, lifted, and he fixed his eyes on David.


    Catching the cue, David quickly backed him up, "Indeed, Mr. Walter Gordon isn''t the type to sweat the small stuff. And yeah, I might''ve been a bit out of line stopping Ms. Kast at the door, even if it was my job. So, how about this, Mr. Walter Gordon? I''ll cover the cost of the broken cup. If I pay full price, Ms. Kast won''t feel so bad, and it''ll remind me to check my attitude at work."


    Walter gave a nod of approval.


    Out of all his assistants, only David had stuck around for more than a decade. David definitely had a few. tricks up his sleeve.


    Walter''s approving gaze turned frosty as itnded on Minnie. Keeping his cool, he asked, "Are we good with this solution, or do you have any issues with it?"


    Minnie was already scared stiff from ticking off Walter, and since there was a way out, she was not about to cause more trouble. "Nope, no issues here. I''m just d you''re not mad anymore, Walter," she said, trying to sound sweet andpliant.


    Walter thought to himself, why should he be mad? He was not the one footing the bill or taking the heat.


    However, Minnie was trying so hard to be good that he would be a buzzkill if he did not y along. "I''m not mad. Just make sure you''re not upset, and we''re cool," he said, his voice finally softening, though it was clear he was not thrilled about it. There were still some things about Minnie that needed looking into, and he could not drop his caring-guy act just yet..


    Right then, the janitor, decked out in thick gloves, made her way upstairs, getting right to work cleaning up


    440


    the mess with a sense of duty. David stepped aside to


    Minnie did not waste a second. She plopped down on t onto Walter''s arm, ready to cuddle up to him. Chapter 450

 450

    Chapter 450


    Minnie was doing that all on purpose.


    She was dying for the wholepany to buzz about her and Walter, the big-shot president of Gordon Group. If the rumors spread, maybe Walter would feel forced to marry her after his divorce from Evangeline. Her fingers lightly traced Walter''s cheek, the yful suggestion clear as day.


    "Walter, you seem down. Look at you, bags under your eyes and all. Didn''t catch much sleep, huh?" said Minnie, her voice dripping with fake sympathy, giving David a nudge to notice. Something was up with Walter, that was for sure.


    David could not help but turn his full attention to him.


    Walter shrugged off Minnie''s clingy hands as if it were nothing. "Does it really matter how I feel? Life goes on, right?"Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    The memory ofst night made Walter''s chest tighten with pain. If Cole had not been so set on having a great-grandson, he and Evangeline would probably be history already.


    He used to think Evangeline''s heart belonged to Alex. However, with those two lovebirds, what chance did he stand? He never had Evangeline''s love to begin with.


    Walter let out a deep sigh.


    He was not about to give up that easily.


    He had always gotten whatever he wanted. Was there really anything out of his reach?


    Evangeline was the unexpected twist in his life story. He never nned on her crashing into his world, but Trey had other ns, pushing her into his life with the subtlety of a sledgehammer.


    Then, just when he had opened his heart to her, she saw the truth of their mismatched marriage. She was pregnant with his child, yet her heart had never truly been his.


    It was a mix of heartbreak and humor, something to be pitied and scorned.


    What Walter did not realize was that his words echoed agreement in the ears of everyone around.


    Minnie hated seeing Walter with a permanent frown, so she racked her brain until a lightbulb went off with a reason to smile. "Walter, your birthday''s right around the corner. It''s the first one we''ll celebrate since we got together. Let''s make it a st, okay?" Sometimes, the start of one thing could lead to a whole new path.


    Minnie''s yful voice was relentless, never missing a beat.


    She daydreamed about Walter''s ideal birthday celebration, already lost in the blissful fantasy she had crafted for them.


    "What if we take a cruise and watch the sunrise over the ocean? I''ve heard that couples who do that are bound for happiness."


    Minnie was not one to believe in old wives'' tales, but love had turned her a tad superstitious. If there was even a chance it could spell eternal bliss for her and Walter, she was all in.


    Plus, she harbored a dream, one where she would surrender herself to Walter amidst the romance of the high seas.


    She could still see the birthday party where Walter had guided her through a game of pool, their hands touching. That memory always sent a wave of warmth through her.


    She was sure that back then, Walter had eyes only for her. s, Evangeline just had to stir up drama. On that cruise ship, she dropped the divorce bomb like it was nothing, blowing things way out of proportion.


    Poor Walter had to swallow his pride just to keep his head up.


    Every time Minnie reyed that mess in her head, her heart ached with regret for what Julia and Walter had lost. Finally back as Minnie, she was dead set on fixing things. No way was she going to let herself live with any what-ifs. 2/2

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    Chapter 451


    "Imagine celebrating your birthday out on the ocean-it''d be the ultimate romantic adventure," said Minnie, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    Walter, however, was lost in a different thought. "Does watching a sunrise together at sea really guarantee a lifetime of happiness?"


    He wondered if doing that with Evangeline would mean they would be happy together. The odds seemed against it, but part of him wanted to believe in the magic of the moment. What if it actually worked?


    "So, what do you say, Walter? Are you in?" Minnie asked, her voice tinged with hope.


    If Walter said yes


    it would put Minnie''s mind at ease. The sky stretched endlessly above them, and the dawn blushed a deep red. Could there be anything more romantic than two peopleing together with the first light of day?


    "I''ll think about it," Walter replied, his heart not really in it. He wanted to experience that moment, but not with Minnie. He could not juste out and say that, of course. He had to calmly find some excuse to keep her hanging.


    "My birthday is still three days away, so there''s no rush. If I can shuffle my work schedule around, maybe I can make it happen," he said, his words dripping with a hope he did not feel.


    Walter was a master at the art of conversation-giving nothing away while letting the other person fill the silence with their own dreams and expectations.


    However, deep down, Walter''s thoughts were with only one person: Evangeline. He had no idea what she was up to or how their baby was doing inside her.


    Since the day Walter felt the first stirrings of life beneath his hand on Evangeline''s belly, something paternal sparked to life inside him. Each day, his thoughts wandered to their unborn child. Was it bigger? Was it kicking yet? He was itching to bond with the little one. Unbeknownst to Walter, David had overheard his unspoken hopes, quietly taking it all in.


    Walter clearly was not keen on the idea of a cruise with Minnie. His agreement to consider it likely hinged on who else might join.


    There were things Walter could not just blurt in front of Minnie, and that was where his right-hand man, the assistant, stepped up to the te.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve got an idea.


    "The Gordon family yacht is massive. It''d be boring with just you and Ms. Kast. You haven''t seen your friends in ages. Why not invite them to your birthday bash? It''d be a st!


    "It''s the perfect chance to catch up and chill out. Sounds good, right?"


    David''s n was straightforward. His suggestion would surely prompt Walter to think of the one person he was dying to celebrate with on the cruise.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    David had the next steps all mapped out.


    However, Minnie did not agree. She had dreamed up the cruise, envisioning a serene birthday for just the two of them, to bask in their own little world and tie up loose ends. David''s annoying proposal was a direct challenge to her ns. Was he deliberately trying to ruffle her feathers?


    At that very moment, Walter''s eyes lingered on Minnie, leaving her to wonder what was going through his mind.


    "What do you think?" Walter asked.


    She tried to read the mystery in Walter''s gaze but ended up fumbling for words, unable to voice her thoughts.

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    Chapter AM


    Finally, Walter took the reins of the conversation.


    "ying around on this cruise is getting pretty boring, don''t you think? We should spice things up by inviting some friends. And hey,"


    A spark lit up in Walter''s eyes as if he had just had an epic idea.


    "We''ve got to have Evangeline there. It''s my birthday, after all. If my wife skips out, it''ll be the talk of the town. David, you''ve got to make sure shees, by any means necessary!"


    Walter''s mood had done aplete flip, and Minnie felt the sting of it deep inside.


    Why did he have to think of Evangeline, of all people, at a time that should be filled with joy?


    "Walter, are you into Evangeline or something?" Minnie''s voice rose with her usation, "I mentioned a cruise to catch the sunrise, and you couldn''t care less. However, bring up Evangeline, and you''re all fired


    She stood up abruptly, her eyes welling up with fresh tears that traced the paths of old ones down her cheeks.


    "If you''re into Evangeline, just be straight with me. Why drag me through the mud?"Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    David could only feel a shiver run down his spine in the face of Minnie''s raw emotion.


    Walter, the big boss, was a terrible actor. Whenever he tried to fake a scene with Minnie, his performance was so rough that anyone with half a brain could tell he was not into her.


    However, Minnie-bless her heart-was too cheerfully clueless to notice. They had been in that messy dance for ages, and she was none the wiser.


    Finally, she seemed to be catching on, and he was curious to see how Walter would wrap up that farce.


    "What are you even talking about?" Walter snapped, his eyes narrowing into a re. "Come on, it''s obvious how much I spoil you. Do we really need to spell it out?"


    Minnie was taken aback, her voice tinged with confusion, "Then why invite Evangeline on your birthday, of all days? Doesn''t she just kill the vibe? How can we get cozy with her hanging around..."


    "With her here, we have to be extra cozy," Walter interrupted. "Evangeline wants a divorce, right? I''ll show her just how blissful a woman cherished by me can be! Minnie, you''re such a disappointment. After everything I''ve done, you still doubt my feelings?"


    "I... I messed up." Minnie clung to Walter''s waist, her voice dripping with sweetness as she apologized," Walter, I won''t ever doubt you again. Please, can''t you just let it go?"


    Walter''s face was a picture of annoyance as he pushed against Minnie, who was practically throwing herself at him. "So you doubt me? If you don''t trust me, then don''t get so close..."


    David, who had been watching the drama unfold, waspletely gobsmacked.


    Seeing how Walter handled the situation, he could not help but silently cheer him on with a mental thumbs. -up. What a power move!


    David looked forward to Walter''s birthday bash


    Imagine that: Exes and current mes, trapped together on a cruise ship. It was like a scene straight out of a teen drama, right?


    With Walter''s knack for stirring things up, he was itching to see the show go down.


    Regardless, drama was drama. He still had to nail the mission Walter handed him.


    While those two were all over each other, he shot Walter a look and got the okay to duck out early.


    The first thing David did after leaving the office was to call Evangeline''s number.


    Talk about bad timing, though.


    Evangeline had just finished a show marathon and was hit by a wave of creativity. Chapter

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    Chapter 453


    Evangeline remembered she had promised to pen a track for her best friend Roslyn''s new album not even started. Hence, she got down to business, writing like a whirlwind. and had


    Her ideas were flowing non-stop, and she was all in on the writing sesh until she snapped back to reality at two in the afternoon.


    She pulled out her phone, like always, to check for any messages she missed and saw David''s missed call right away.


    Why was David, who was practically glued to Walter, calling her?


    She raised an eyebrow.


    However, knowing David was not one to bug her for no reason, and not wanting to miss out on something major, she called him back, even though she was not exactly thrilled about it. "Mrs. Gordon, you finally hit me back."


    David was practically crying with relief when Evangeline finally called him back.


    He had tried reaching her at noon but got no answer. Then he just zoned out, staring at his phone.


    He thought about calling again but did not want to disturb her. Not calling felt even worse, like maybe she just did not want to talk to him at all. He was totally stuck in the middle.


    Evangeline let out a soft hum. "David, spit it out if there''s something on your mind."


    Normally, with the way things were between her and Walter, David should not be bringing anything to her. However, since they were still technically married, she felt it was only right to ask what was up.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "Here''s the deal. In three days, it''s Mr. Walter Gordon''s birthday. He''s throwing a big bash on a cruise ship and he wants you there, no excuses."


    That was when Evangeline finally checked her phone calendar. Sure enough, the date wasing up.


    However, why should she care about Walter''s birthday?


    "You really think I should go to this thing? Won''t Mr. Walter Gordon think I''m just raining on his parade? Too bad Evangeline''s roundabout way of saying ''no thanks'' did not even register with David. Walter had given the orders, so as far as David was concerned, anything Evangeline said was as good as saying she would be there.


    "You''re still our Mrs. Gordon. If you don''t show up to something this big, who will? Plus, the boss made it clear-you''ve got to be there. Think about it, a husband''s birthday without his wife? That''d be a p in the face, right?" Evangeline took a deep breath.


    Something about David''s words smelled fishy to her. The way he kept saying ''husband'' and ''wife'' so smoothly, it was like he was baiting her to show up at Walter''s party,


    Evangeline''s mind was a whirlpool of memories.


    She had once poured her heart into nning the perfect birthday surprise for Walter, dreaming of a magical day when they would fall deeper in love. However, every time she dared to hope, Walter would do something to snap her back to reality.


    So the surprise she had crafted with such care was still hidden away in her secret hideout, never having seen the light of day. Maybe this was the time to give those gifts?


    The thought of bing strangers after the divorce, with her heartfelt efforts buried and forgotten, filled her with a sense of loss. Thus, she decided, "Okay, when''s the party? Count me in."

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    Chapter 454


    Evangeline was not just going to Walter''s birthday ban to celebrate her almost ex file was going make sure she left with no regrets.


    She nned to close the chapter regarding all the feelings she had for Waller, believing that with each memory put to rest, her attachment to him would fade away. Quickly, he would be nothing more than a ghost in her past. Hanging up the phone, she went to her secret hideout. It was a cozy studio apartment, nothing fancy, bot it was her own little world.


    Tucked away in an unremarkable neighborhood, the ce was simple, yet it had everything she needed. She called it her secret hideout because it was her private sanctuary that no one else knew about.


    Ever since she started violin lessons with Loberni, music had be her forte. The first song she penned for her bestie Roslyn took the country by storm, and with it, she earned her first big paycheck.


    Evangeline had always dreamed of a ce she could call her own. Thus, she went behind everyone''s back and snagged a cozy little house. It was not that she could not ssh out on something bigger, but living alone in a mansion would just echo with emptiness and make her feel even more alone.


    The best thing about a snug home was how it wrapped her in warmth, even when it was bursting at the


    seams.


    Her own little corner of the world was filled with gifts. They were scattered everywhere on the bed, across the floor-each one tucked inside a box wrapped with care and tagged with a number. There were 30 in all, each unique and special, just like the moments they were meant to celebrate for Walter.


    For his first birthday, a golden charm to wish him a long life. For his second, a yful rattle drum with at doll''s face. His third, a rare Disney puzzle that was all the rage.


    She had a rule: No repeats, ever.


    It had be second nature, picking out presents for Walter''s birthdays.


    Whenever she stumbled upon the perfect gift, she would scoop it up, dress it in a pretty box, p on a number, and stash it away in her sanctuary.


    Her fingers brushed over the boxes, then cloaked in ayer of dust. It was a reminder of the time that had passed, and it pricked at her heart. Her eyes, usually so bright, threatened to spill over with tears.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Evangeline had made a promise to herself. After that horrific day in the car, when Walter had treated her worse than anyone should ever be treated, she swore she would never cry over him again. Hence, she held back the tears. She had to be strong, to not let the floodgates open.


    At that moment, she was oddly thankful for David. He gave her news that felt like a lifeline. Without it, who knew how long those gifts would have remained hidden, gathering more dust in her little haven?


    Gifts were just things, but if Walter kept his feelings locked away like those presents, when would she ever be free to embrace her slice of happiness? They had been tangled up in each other''s lives for so long that it was time for her to wave goodbye to who she used to be.


    Evangeline''s mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, while Minnie was practically doing cartwheels with


    excitement. She was so excited that she might as well have crafted a victory banner and paraded it in front of Evangeline.


    Even with Walter''s promise, Minnie could not shake off her worries. She would only believe sh only one in Walter''s heart when she saw him cut ties with Evangeline for good. So, with a scheme


    she cuddled up to Walter once more.


    was the


    In the past, any woman bold enough to distract him at work would have been shown the door in no time.

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    Chapter 455


    However, when Walter saw it was Minnie, the fearless woman, he could only drop his work and give her


    his attention.


    Still, he made sure to extricate her from his arms and keep a professional distance. "What''s up, Minnie? Getting bored?" he asked.


    However, knowing that Walter was a true workaholic, Minnie figured she had already gotten special treatment for not being kicked out for her antics. So, instead of dwelling on it, she decided to get straight to the point.


    "I was just thinking, with your birthdaying up, it''d be very weird if Evangeline didn''t show. However, things are so frosty between you two. Wouldn''t ite off as pretty half-hearted if you just sent Mr. Zimmer to invite her?" The word ''half-hearted immediately caught Walter''s attention. He eyed Minnie, who was obviously


    yet said, and cut to the chase, "What''s on your mind?"


    tiptoeing around something she had no


    "If you really want Evangeline to show up, you''ve got to be the one to call her, Walter. Once she sees we''re serious, she''ll get over whatever grudge she''s holding ande to your birthday bash."


    Minnie''s argument seemed solid, but the scheming behind her eyes was all too apparent.


    Walter was nobody''s fool. Did she really think she could pull a fast one on him?


    ying along, Walter probed, "So, you''re saying I should call Evangeline myself and ask her toe to my birthday party?"


    Walter toyed with the idea, but he was more worried about the potential awkwardness that might ensue if


    he made the call.


    "I just think it would work out better. Plus, I''m here, right? I can lend a hand with inviting Evangeline, too."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Minnie''s gaze was brimming with feigned earnestness, but anyone who knew her even slightly could tell she was plotting something.


    Walter was not fooled for a second, and he had no intention of following her script.


    It was clear as day that Minnie had it out for Evangeline, and if things had note to that, he would never have let both of them be at his yacht party at the same time.


    "And how exactly are you nning to help? Think you can outtalk Evangeline?"


    Walter''s words came out in a steady stream, showing no signs of wanting to make a call, and he effectively snuffed out Minnie''s sly n. "We''ve got to have faith in Mr. Zimmer''s skills. All we need to do is sit tight and wait for the good news." He gave Minnie''s hand a reassuring pat and locked eyes with her, his gaze heavy with unspoken thoughts.


    Little did he know, he had underestimated Minnie''s knack for taking action.


    What was just a simple pat on the hand turned into something much more suggestive, thanks to the angle Minnie had craftily chosen.


    Walter''s loaded look, set against the soft pink background, only served to underscore the strong bond between them.


    Minnie yed the part of the dutifulforter to Walter, and once she saw tan dive back to his wor she sneakily took out her phone and sent the perfectly staged photo to Evangeliner''s phone


    She was hell-bent on reaching her goal, and despite Walter''s clear stance against calling Evangelice, Minnie was not about to take ''no'' for an answer.


    She could not go against Walter''s wishes, but she still had to get what she wanted


    There was only one way to make that happen, and that was to get Evangeline to make the first move

 456

    Chapter 456


    Evangeline was in her secret hideout, meticulously dusting off the gift boxes until they shone like new.


    Satisfied, she tossed the cloth aside and flopped onto the bed, ready to stretch out and unwind. However, the moment she heard the ping of a text message, her rxation was cut short.


    A photo of Walter and Minnie, looking far toofortable with each other, shed on her screen. Evangeline froze solid.


    It was one thing to hear rumors, but seeing it in person was a different thing altogether.


    Evangeline''s moment of shock was brief, the strange number on her screen demanded her attention.


    If Walter had sent the message, he would have used his own phone. This was not Walter, but someone who stood to gain from their breakup.


    The photo on her screen was provocative, and Minnie''s smug face came to mind.


    Was she bragging? unting that she had snagged Walter and could then proudly stand by his side? Meanwhile, Evangeline, the one who truly belonged there, was stuck hiding away, pregnant, in her vi like a mouse? There could only be one reason for Minnie''s disy, and that was intimidation.


    She was signaling Evangeline to back off, to relinquish her im as the rightful Mrs. Gordon and save everyone the embarrassment.


    Evangeline was not used to being pushed around.


    She pressed down on the message until the option to forward popped up, then sent it straight to Walter.


    As soon as the message was marked as read, she did not hesitate to call.


    Walter knew instantly that Minnie was behind the photo. She was trying to drive a wedge between him and Evangeline, to cement her ce as the future Mrs. Gordon.


    He was plotting his next move against that bold, meddling woman when his phone rang.


    Evangeline.


    Her name shing on the screen sent a jolt through him, his fingers quivering with a mix of nerves and anticipation.


    It had been ages since she had reached out to him first. However, this time, since Evangeline had actually. called, he figured he would go easy on Minnie.


    He took a deep breath and pressed the answer button


    "Hello, this is Walter." He kept his voice neutral to hide what he was really feeling.


    His voice was so t and emotionless that Evangeline felt a wave of distance between them.


    It was like he did not even care enough to remember who she was. Otherwise, why would he sound so detached?


    *Hello, this is Evangeline." She matched his formal tone, making sure to get straight to the point of her call. "Do you have anything to say about the photo I sent?" Evangeline had heard all sorts of gossip about Walter and Minnie''s so-called fling. She never paid any attention to such rumors-chasing after whispers was pointless. Besides, her marriage to Walter was only on paper those days. She could not hog the title of Mrs. Gordon and deny Walter his shot at happiness, could she? However, with that photo on her phone, ying dumb was not an option.


    "It''s exactly as you saw it."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.

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    Chapter 457


    Walter thought back to that suggestive photo, and a sense of admiration for Minnie bubbled up. It was Just a shot of a hand being touched, but Minnie had a way of making it seem like they had done something scandalous.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    "So, you got Mr. Zimmer to invite me to your yacht bash just so I could see with my own eyes how happy you are with your new me?" Evangeline scoffed.


    At that moment, she felt the sting of the truth: The guy she was crazy about was just downright mean.


    Back when she was alone, he med her for wrecking his thing with Julia. He got back at her, sure, but


    she could handle that.


    However, this? There was a saying that went, ''Even a wild beast would not eat its own young." She was carrying his baby, crying out loud. Why did she have to put up with that kind of cruelty? Meanwhile, Minnie, who had popped out to brew some coffee, spotted Walter on the phone, his face a tangled web of emotions. She knew in a heartbeat it had to be Evangeline on the line.


    She dashed back, coffee forgotten, and sidled up to Walter with a voice dripping with sweetness "Walter, who''s on the phone? Is it Evangeline?"


    Walter shot her a look, his mind reeling. Who would have guessed that Minnie, all dolled up and dripping with charm, was a mastermind with a never-say-die attitude?


    Minnie did not wait for an answer. She snatched the phone and cooed into it. "Evangeline, you finally rang! I''ve missed you like crazy. Mr. Zimmer must''ve clued you in, right? It''s Walter''s birthday in three days, and he''s throwing a yacht party to celebrate. Then it''s just him and me, watching the sunrise over the ocean.


    "You have to be there for the big day!"


    Minnie''s voice bubbled over with excitement, each word more enthusiastic than thest.


    Evangeline rolled her eyes. The bragging was so over the top that it was almost funny. However, instead of getting mad, she felt a strange urge to see for herself just how lovey-dovey Minnie and Walter really were. The thought made her wonder if she was a bit of a glutton for punishment.


    However, she could not agree right away. That would be way too easy and totally not fitting for someone like her, the Foster family''s darling princess. ying hard to get was the name of the game if she wanted to keep the upper hand.


    With a yful smirk, she teased, "Ms. Kast, if you and Walter are all set for a romantic sunrise at sea, why would I crash the party? I''d be like the ultimate third wheel. No thanks, I''ll pass on being that annoying."


    Evangeline was ying coy, but deep down, she knew Minnie''s super-warm invite was just a setup for her to witness the couple''s public disys of affection firsthand. No matter how much she yed it cool, Minnie would not stop bugging her toe.


    Minnieughed off the refusal. "Oh,e on! Walter and I would be thrilled to have you there. You''ve seen our whole love story unfold, from the meet-cute to this moment. It wouldn''t be the same without your blessing." Minnie spoke while yfully nudging Walter with her shoulder. "Right, Walter?"


    Walter, trying to act all casual, just rubbed his chin and

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    Chapter 458


    Walter was fuming, the kind of anger everyone could feel in the air.


    Evangeline turned into the third wheel, popping all of Walter''s dreamy bubbles. He was so ticked off that he could not even muster the energy to call out Minnie''s obviously exaggerated stories. Alex''s words were still buzzing in his ears. At that moment, all he wanted to know was whether Evangeline would get the slightest bit jealous over him,


    If she did, he would drop the act with Minnie in a heartbeat and focus solely on Evangeline and their child, even if it meant losing a crucial tip on the Bennison family, his arch-enemies.


    "Evangeline, it would really bum both me and Minnie out if you weren''t there for this big deal, soe on, Join us," he said.


    That answer said it all about where Walter stood.


    Imagine, a husband and his side-chick all cozu


    celebrating a birthday, and the real wife was supposed to


    just show up and cheer them on? What kind of messed-up situation was that?


    However, Evangeline was not intimidated in the slightest.


    She had made up her mind that she was going to witness firsthand how that shameless duo pretended to be all happy. Send blessings?


    Evangeline nced at the bed covered in fancy gift boxes, each with a number, and snorted.


    Sure, there were blessings, of course, but not those.


    She had one thing crystal clear then: Walter did not deserve those gifts, and he sure did not deserve her genuine love!All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "I could go, but it''s all sost minute, I wouldn''t have time to whip up a gift," said Evangeline, ying it cool.


    When Minnie heard Evangeline mighte after all, she could not care less about the gift and eagerly chimed in, "Evangeline, just having you here is the best gift. Walter and I don''t care about anything else." Evangeline hung up and walked away from her secret hideout.


    She had made up her mind-she was nevering back.


    That was where she buried her old self, the one who foolishly loved Walter.


    Her phone rang while she was driving. One of her guys had something urgent to report, something that needed to be done face-to-face.


    She floored it and pulled up to the Foster Group''s security tower.


    All the Foster Group''s guards lived there. It was their base for big jobs and meetings.


    Evangeline''s own hired guards were stationed there too, courtesy of her uncles'' arrangements.


    The guards, who had not seen Evangeline at thepany for ages, were on their toes, showing her event more respect than before.


    The head guard saluted her with utmost reverence. "Ms. Evangeline, we''re really sorry to trouble you with a personal visit, given everything that''s going on. We could''ve just filled you in with your go-ahead." Evangeline''s guards were always on point, no need to say.


    She brushed it off with a wave of her hand. "No sweat. was out and about when you called. Getting here was just a quick drive. Don''t sweat it.


    "What I really care about is what you''ve got to tell me this time.*


    They were in the most soundproof meeting room in the whole security tower.


    Evangeline was not usually one to get paranoid, but the bodyguard''s extra cautious vibe had her on high


    alert.


    She watched as he carefully pulled out a document from his briefcase and bowed respectfully. With a solemn chest, he handed it to her with both hands.


    "Ms. Evangeline, our team has picked up on some shady characters snooping around the ck market for info on you-like, really digging into the details. We''re worried they might be out to get you, and we''re also worried about your health. We looped in Mr. Foster right away. He told us toy low for now and keep tabs on these mystery folks."

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    Chapter 459


    The ''Mr. Foster the bodyguard was talking about was Evangeline''s Uncle Holden.


    Ever since her birthday bash, the only uncles hanging around the Foster family estate were Yale and Holden. The rest would asionally check on her and Cole, but mostly they were off handling their own business.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Lately, she had not been in touch with any of them, and they had not reached out either. She figured they


    the were just swamped with work. Little did she know, she had been under her uncles'' silent, watchful eye whole time.


    Holden, without making a big deal out of it, had been her silent guardian.


    Feeling the warmth of her family, and the heightened emotions of pregnancy, she could not help but tear


    up


    "Where''s Uncle Holden? I want to see him."


    The bodyguard checked his watch and said cautiously, "Mr. Foster is on his way as we speak. He should be here at ten. If you can hang tight, he''ll fill you in on everything, okay?"


    "Sure, go on and do what you need to do."


    Evangeline perched on the swivel chair in the conference room, her eyes locked on the stack of papers her bodyguard had dropped off.


    Just two weeks ago, someone named Beck had been sshing cash on the ck market-45 thousand dors a pop-for any leads on Evangeline''s whereabouts.


    That was arge sum being thrown around. Her fingers traced the edge of the paper as a lightbulb went


    off in her head.


    That was the day she had hit up Sunny Glow Beauty Salon for some pampering, was it not? What were the odds that the moment she stepped out from getting her facial, someone was already snooping around for info on her?


    The thought of Celina, the salon''s sweet and seemingly innocent manager, being involved was mind-boggling. Could she be the one shelling out big bucks for Evangeline''s itinerary? If that was true, Evangeline had totally misjudged her. It was then Walter''s words from their car ride rang in her mind.


    He had warned her that there was more to Sunny Glow Beauty Salon than met the eye. It was so sketchy that Walter had ditched histest fling, Minnie, just toe and give Evangeline a heads-up. With that news, a wave of fear washed over her.


    If she had not beenying low at the vi, focusing on her pregnancy, who knew what that mystery shopper could have figured out from her travel logs?


    Just then, the conference room door swung open. In came Holden, looking like he had run through a dust. storm, and sat down beside her.


    He caught a glimpse of the papers in Evangeline''s grip and, red-faced and steaming, he let out a string of


    angry words.


    "Who in the world was so thoughtless to let you see this, not realizing you''re not the same as you used to be?" said Holden, reaching out to grab the document from Evangeline''s hands. However, she was quicker, deftly stepping back and spreading the document out before him.


    "Uncle Holden, I''ve already seen what''s inside. So, spill it-good or bad, I want the whole truth." Evangeline had a hunch about why Holden had hurried to see her tonight.


    Someone was sneakily tracking her every move, which could only mean trouble.


    ying the clueless damsel under secret protection was way too risky then.


    Better to have had everything out in the open. She had to know her friends and her enemies, and she had to stay one step ahead.

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    Chapter 460


    Holden''s brow creased with concern, as if he was wrestling with a big decision. Then, he pressed on, "To sniff out this mystery person, we spread some fake news and nabbed a guy named Beck from the file. "After we grilled him, Beck spilled that he was just a pawn, with


    some shadowy figure pulling the strings. Their rendezvous point was-"


    "Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, Evangeline cut in before Holden could finish, nailing the answer.


    Shockingly, Holden did not deny it but stared at her, utterly taken aback. "Evie, how did you figure it out? I only got wind of it myself a short while ago."


    Evangeline''s face was a tapestry of emotions.


    "I remember the one time I stepped into Sunny Glow Beauty Salon. That was when Walter popped up out of nowhere, like a ghost, and told me to stay away."


    She could feel it in her bones that Sunny Glow was a maze of secrets.


    Lydia, the woman who was like a shadow-always slipping through her fingers, a mystery buyer in the ck market tracking her every move, and some puppet master pulling strings from the shadows.


    It was like they were caught in a spider''s web, invisible and sticky, Walter and she were trapped with no way out


    "Uncle, my friend dug up that Lydia, the one behind my mom''s death, hangs out at Sunny Glow. Could it be that Lydia, ticked off and humiliated, is the one calling the shots? Maybe she''s the one who paid Beck to sniff out my tracks on the ck market?" Evangeline threw out her guess, testing the waters.


    Holden knew all about Lydia, the viin who took down his own sister. He just never figured that even with the best of the Foster family''s muscle and brains on it, they hade up empty-handed.


    Then, he was interested in this friend of Evie''s. If he could have, he would have jumped at the chance to meet her.


    However, Evangeline''s safety was the priority. He shoved those other thoughts aside and asked, "Evie, what do you know about Lydia? Is she loaded?"


    As Evangeline looked back at him in confusion, Holden dove into his exnation


    "You must''ve caught wind of it, right? Some enigma shelled out a whopping forty-five grand just for a tip about where you might be headed. However, even if Lydia''s got reasons to pull a stunt like this, could she really cough up that kind of cash to bankroll the whole shebang?"


    Holden''s words sent Evangeline spiraling into a whirlpool of thoughts.


    One thing was crystal clear: the Rearden family was penniless before Lydia vanished into thin air.


    Evangeline kicked the three of them out of her mother''s house. If Walter had not stepped up and offered his ce to Julia and her family, they would have been out on the streets without a roof over their heads. After Lydia went missing....This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Is it possible Lydia''s cozied up to some big-shot power yer to pull off something like this?"


    She had always had this nagging hunch that Minnie, the woman who could not seem to untangle herself from Walter, was Julia in a clever disguise. However, with no proof, it was just a hunch.


    That was until she heard through the grapevine from Alex that Minnie''s family had been shrouded in secrecy, which only added fuel to her suspicions.


    In her mind, getting into that family was like trying to get into an exclusive club-no way she could just waltz in. Nheless, every breadcrumb seemed to lead back to them.


    If Minnie and Julia were one and the same, then Lydia, by hitching her wagon to Minnie''s star, had found herself a powerful ally... and the rest just fell into ce.

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    Chapter 461


    The more Evangeline pieced together the puzzle, the more her skin crawled.


    Lydia snooping around her was definitely not for anything good, but what really made Evangeline nervous was the thought of the heavyweight lurking in Lydia''s shadow


    The Gordons ruled the South, and the Fosters ruled the North. These were just a handful of words, but they said it all about where the Fosters stood in the country Evangeline, the only princess of the Foster family, could not even begin to imagine the kind of monstrous power that would have had the guts to be nosing around them so openly


    When the enemies were lurking in the shadows and they were out in the open, every face-off was a high- takes game of survival Evangeline was bing more and more cautious about making any sudden


    Holden caught on to how risky things were getting, and his eyes were full of worry when he looked at Evangeline "Listen, Evie, you''ve got to be super careful these days


    Tm going to beef up your security detail, but if you keep your own eyes peeled, too, we''re talking double the protection. We can only y our cards right and catch the bad guys if we know you''re safe and sound." Holden was making sense, but Evangeline was in a bind.


    Holden had been clear. He wanted her to stay indoors unless it was necessary. However, she already agreed to go to Walter''s cruise party. There was going to be a showdown with some real pieces of work there, and she was not about to miss it.


    Weighing her options, she figured if she told Holden about it, she might not get to go. After debating with herself mentally, she decided to keep silent.


    With the Foster family''s muscle watching her back, and her own eyes wide open, it was just a party. How risky could it be, really?Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    With those thoughts in mind, Evangeline said, "I get it. I keep a low profile for now and just stay put at the Emerald of the Hignds. It''s just with Grandpa.


    The thought of not seeing Cole for a long while brought a wave of sadness to her eyes.


    Holden gently patted Evangeline''s hair, offering soft words offort, "Don''t stress. Your grandfather has your Uncle Yale and me to keep himpany. Right now, you''ve got one job-to look after yourself and that little one you''re carrying. We''re all waiting for the day when your grandfather''s great-grandkid makes their grand entrance!"


    The thought of her unborn child brought a smile to Evangeline''s face, and a rosy glow reced the paleness of her cheeks


    Once back at the Emerald of the Hignds, she heeded Holden''s advice and devoted herself to a peaceful pregnancy


    Three days flew by in no time. The day of Walter''s cruise party had finallye


    Evangeline''s baby bump was unmistakable, and anyone paying attention could see the clear signs of her


    pregnancy


    She stood before the mirror, examining her reflection from every angle.


    Her once svelte and sultry figure had softened with pregnancy. Julieta''s attentive care had also rounded bout her face with a touch of baby fat, making her look less fierce and, much to her chagrin, a tad more adorable.


    That was a real dilemma for Evangeline.


    She was not heading to the party today to be mistaken for an innocent bunny. She was there to witness a pair of betrayers put on a show just for her, and without the right vibe, would not she just embarrass the Foster family?


    Julieta had a hunch that Evangeline was dreading going out today. She peeked into the bedroom after noticing Evangeline''s dy and found her looking worried, her brows knitted together.


    "Ms. Evangeline, putting on a little weight when you''re expecting is totally normal. It''s part of the joy of


    down!" motherhood. You shouldn''t let it get you

 462

    Chapter 462


    ""But how can I not worry.


    Evangeline seemned to have lost all her energy, copsing onto the bed with a sigh.


    This was about her pride. Anyone else, and it would not be a big deal. However, this was her ex-husband, Walter, throwing a birthday party just to spite her. How could she allow herself to be humiliated? "Mrs. Lewis, can you help me look... more poised?"


    Julieta did not fully grasp the whirlwind of emotions Evangeline was going through, but she was eager to help her tackle that challenge.


    After pondering for a bit, Julieta pulled out a chic light brown camel hair coat and a super simple top from Evangeline''s closet.


    "Ms. Evangeline, I''ve done my best with these picks. Try them on and see."


    Evangeline slipped into the dressing room and tried on the outfit Julieta had put together. When she stepped back in front of the mirror, she was transformed, her confidence soaring


    The coat, unable to button over her baby bump, hung in a way that was both ttering and discreet. Paired with the top and some jeans, the look was effortlessly smart, giving her an air of sharpness.


    The boost in her presence was undeniable. The best part? She did not even need to wear heels.


    Being pregnant made strutting around in high heels a no-go, but Julieta, the gem she had hired, had a knack for picking out the perfect outfits that skirted that little problem. Julieta was a real treasure- always on point and super thoughtful. At the stroke of nine, David''s car rolled up to Evangeline''s fancy vi. His eyes nearly popped out of his head when he saw her.


    Evangeline stepped into the car like she owned the world.


    The Gordon family was loaded, and when it came to running their yacht, they did not cut any corners. However, once Evangeline got on board, she realized Walter was all show and no substance.


    He had made a big deal about throwing that massive bash with all his pals, but it turned out to be just a few of his usual cronies.


    Leading the pack was his buddy Caden, and then there was Felicia, the fresh-faced model who used to be glued to Walter''s side.


    Except now, things had shifted. Felicia was not hanging off Walter''s arm, but she was stuck like glue to Caden instead.


    Evangeline took a leisurelyp around the yacht and noticed the guest of honor was nowhere to be found, which was weird.


    Minnie loved the spotlight. She would never pass up a chance to show off.


    Walter, the guy who had been all over Evangeline to get there early, was also nowhere to be seen.


    Maybe those two were plotting something, somewhere? Whatever they were up to, only they knew. Chapter 462


    BONUS


    Evangeline was not sweating it, though. She knew the day was packed with drama, and getting worked up would not help her enjoy the show.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    She decided to rx and see how things yed out.


    Evangeline was clueless that the epic drama she had been dying to see had already kicked off. The show had gotten rolling aboard that cruise ship way before David swung by to pick her up.


    Minnie, aiming to dazzle as the soon-to-be Mrs. Gordon, splurged on a bunch of high-end outfits with Walter''s ck card. She woke up at the crack of dawn to m up, then, arm in arm with Walter, strutted onto the cruise ship as the day''s first guest. Their game n? Kick things off at ten, party hard with pals all day, have an epic night on the ship, and catch the sunrise the next morning.

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    Chapter 463 Chapter


    463


    That way, they would have rocked out for a full day and night, making Walter''s birthday a total st.


    However, even the bestid ns could go sideways.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Walter, eyeing Minnie all prepped and primed, got a wild idea to head to the ship early and hang tight. s just did


    The Gordons had poured a fortune into that cruise ship, and it was the epitome of luxury. Words not do it justice.


    They stepped into the luxurious, romantic restaurant, bathed in soft light with violin music floating through the air-everything Minnie had ever wished for. She happily ordered red wine and steak, ready for a candlelit breakfast date with Walter.


    However, after just half a ss of wine, Minnie was out like a light and slumped over right in front of Walter.


    Walter? He did not even bat an eye. With a casual wave, he had the bodyguards whisk Minnie off to her room and brushed it off.


    The restaurant, once a haven of romance, underwent a lightning-fast transformation. Its decor then dazzled with splendor, every detail of the interior from design to thest stroke of paint was executed with wless precision.


    Atop the cruise ship''s highest deck, Walter stood with a wine ss in hand, gazing down at the petite figure who strolled aboard with an easy grace. A subtle smile yed on his lips.


    He had never considered inviting Minnie to celebrate his birthday on that luxurious vessel.


    Minnie, without the influential shadow she trailed behind her, would not even make the guest list for his ship. The thought of her mocking his dear Evangeline wasughable.


    He wa


    was the star, and he wanted nothing more than to share the sea''s sunrise-a symbol of pure joy-with Evangeline alone.


    As the birthday approached, he had already crafted a n to deal with the troublesome Minnie. Before long. David, who had escorted Evangeline back, located Walter and quickly returned to deliver his update. "Mr. Gordon, Mrs. Gordon is back safe and sound. Anything else you need me to do? Maybe something about Ms. Kast?"


    David wasplicit in Walter''s scheme and knew exactly what was on his mind.


    Minnie was important, but she was nowhere near as important as Evangeline.


    "No need. If the seller wasn''t lying, she''ll be out cold until ten tomorrow morning.


    Ten in the morning. David noted the time internally.


    By then, the sunrise would have faded, and for Walter, the timing would be perfect.


    That guy? He''s like an old buddy to us and is reliable."


    David''s hint was crystal clear: ''Minnie wasn''t going to stir anytime soon. Enjoy your birthday bash, Mr. Walter Gordon."


    Walter and David shared a quick look and smiled faintly. Their eyes crinkled in sync without nning it.


    The party kicked off with a bang as the music pumped up, signaling the start of Walter''s birthday


    extravaganza.


    Evangeline, with a baby on the way, felt each beat of the music was a personal affront.


    She med every bit of her unease on Walter.


    Walter had promised to put on a show for her. She was waiting endlessly, but the man had not even bothered to show his face! Chapter 464

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    Chapter 464


    Everyone figured Walter was just being the mysterious host.


    Truth be told, if it were not for the need to keep Minnig off her game, he would not have hosted that party


    at all.


    Would a quiet birthday with his wife and kid not have been so much better?


    Walter lurked in the shadows, eyes fixed on a certain someone in the crowd, biding his time to make hisThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    entrance.


    When Walter caught a glimpse of Evangeline''s pale face in the re of the shbulbs, he could not stay put any longer.


    The masquerade was the party''s opening act, all about cranking up the excitement.


    Evangeline, eyeing the parade of guests, quietly stepped out of the limelight and settled into a secluded


    corner.


    Even though she was there, Evangeline never forgot Holden''s strict instructions: She was to stay out of the public eye unless it was do-or-die, and always keep it low-key.


    She had thought Walter and Minnie had pushed her too far, and she was ready to throw caution to the wind. To her surprise, the star of the show had yet to make an appearance since she walked in


    T


    Evangeline had been dodging the spotlight all night, and so far, her secret was safe. However, as she scanned the room, she noticed something odd.


    The partygoers were all abuzz about Walter''s wild bash, yet none seemed to clue in that it was his birthday party. What was he ying at? Evangeline shrugged it off, deciding to just sit back and watch the drama unfold. Out of nowhere, her eyes locked onto a new figure-a tall guy sporting a ck tux and a quirky


    mask.


    y green frog


    He had the same vibe as Walter, almost enough to fool her. However, when Frog Mask opened his mouth, Evangeline knew he was not Walter. His voice was all wrong.


    "Miss, would you honor me with a dance?" he asked, all charm and grace as he extended his hand.


    What dispelled Evangeline''s suspicions was the man''s voice.


    It was not just his outfit that was different. He could change his clothes, but his voice was a whole different story.


    Walter''s voice was like a bass guitar-deep, resonant, the kind that sends shivers down one''s spine. This guy sounded like the boy next door, all innocence and awkwardness.


    Evangeline did not even waver. "Sorry, I''m not in the dancing mood tonight," she said firmly. She had to remember she was pregnant. Dancing was off the table, especially with some guy she had just met. Evangeline was surprised by how much the guy in the frog mask seemed to be into her. Even after she turned him down, he did not back off. Instead, he just came closer.


    Not up for dancing? No problem. Let''s just sit and talk okay?"


    His voice was as smooth as the tunes Evangeline could pull from her violin, and it was difficult not to enjoy the sound


    She gave the frog faced dude a once-over. That mask looked creepy, but for some reason, she could not bring herself to hate it


    Sure thing What''s your poison? My treat."


    She gged down a server and turned back to the masked man with a yful grin.


    "Ever tried a "Tomorrow? It''s pretty good."


    He was not clueless. He caught a glimpse of the orange juice in her hand right away.


    "Hey, that''s not right. You''re sipping juice, but you''re setting me up with a cocktail. Trying to get me tipsy,

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    Chapter 465 Chapter 465


    The way he talked, with those thoughtful pauses and the way his voice went up at the end, was like a neon sign shing his guy instincts to take charge.


    Evangeline could tell she had snagged his interest. The party was buzzing, and after a string of dull days, that charming-voiced, frog-masked ''little brother'' had her feeling mischievous. "Smart cookie, aren''t you?" she teased, her fingers dancing along his chiseled jawline.


    "What if I''m getting curious about you?"


    "That''s easy to handle. He had a quick answer for that.


    In a sh, his hand was around her wrist, pulling her close. His breath was warm against her ear, and his lips barely brushed her skin.


    "It''s simple. You take me away, or I take you away. Your call."Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    That was intriguing.


    Evangeline narrowed her eyes, a yful glint in them, as she pondered the mystery of her could she, a woman in the full bloom of pregnancy, captivate someone sopletely? own allure. How


    s, Evangeline was small and quick on her feet. With a subtle twist, she danced out of the man''s grasp. Facing the masked man, she gestured with effortless grace to the side and dered firmly, "I''m not picking either option. It''s time for you go.


    She had never questioned her allure, but these were extraordinary times, and her safety was paramount. She had to be cautious of strangers who appeared out of nowhere, showing an intense interest in her.


    However, the masked man seemed unfazed by Evangeline''s aloof demeanor. He leaned in closer, his voiceced with a hint of reproach, "How quickly you be distant. One moment you''re intrigued by me, and the next you''re showing me the door..." His voice faded, but his hand moved with surprising speed. Before Evangeline could even react, she was scooped up by her waist.


    "Too bad, even if you change your mind, it''s already toote.


    Walter''s deep, raspy voice sent a shiver down her spine


    Who would have guessed that the man who had been so sweetly attentive was none other than Walter, the president of Gordon Group and the star of the night''s party? Evangeline was so stunned that she did not even think to resist, letting him carry her through the yacht''s


    corridors.


    At that moment, she was the picture of gentleness.


    Walter cradled Evangeline in his arms, his brow creasing with worry.


    Over three months had passed, yet she felt so light. Too light. If Evangeline was not thriving, how could their baby be?


    425 BONUS


    Lost in his thoughts, Walter did not realize he had arrived at their special spot-the yacht''s top deck, transformed into a haven just for Evangeline.


    The ceiling, a sheet of clear ss, bathed them in warm sunlight by day and offered a nket of stars by night.


    He gentlyid Evangeline on the bed and slipped off her shoes with tender care. She jerked her feet back in shock, unused to such pampering. "Walter, what are you doing?" she asked, her voiceced with surprise.

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    Chapter 466


    Evangeline''s heart raced as she faced Walter''s unusual behavior.


    Alone with him in the room, she could not guess what his next move would be. However, Walter was calm, even as she watched him closely.


    With a slow, deliberate motion, he peeled away the hideous frog mask, revealing the handsome features she knew so well. Evangeline''s eyes widened. She had suspected, but st, how had he managed to disguise his voice sopletely?


    Walter''s deep, familiar voice enveloped her, a soft echo in the quiet room.


    "Evangeline, would you watch the sunrise with me? Just once," asked Walter, his voice trailing off into a


    and whisper that was nothing like his usualmanding tone. It was a plea, something raw uncharacteristically vulnerable.


    The word ''humble'' was not one she would find in Walter Gordon''s vocabry, not the Walter who stood tall in the ranks of the Gordon family. However, there he was, standing before Evangeline, feeling something he had never felt before.


    The mere thought of watching the sunrise over the ocean with her sent a wave of warmth through his heart. He was filled with an eager longing, an anticipation so strong that he could hardly wait.


    In the past, Walter got whatever he wanted with a simplemand to his assistant David or a word spoken in his authoritative voice. No one dared to say no to the young master of the Gordon family, the CEO of Gordon Group.


    However, with Evangeline, neither force nor arrogance would work. The more he pushed, the more she pushed back. Asking her was the only option he had left.


    Walter Gordon, the man who held immense power, was tasting defeat for the first time in his life. All his usual tricks and strategies were worthless. All he could do was wait, humbly and helplessly, yet somehow, he found that surrender strangely sweet.


    "I..." Evangeline began, instinctively ready to reject him. However, the flutter in her heart stopped her, and she swallowed her words before they could escape.


    She quickly scolded herself for being so weak. Walter had barely turned on his charm, and she was already faltering, almost ready to give in to his wishes!


    Evangeline tried to dredge up the memories of all the things Walter had done to her, but her thoughts. paused at the memory of being invited to that cruise party by Minnie and Walter.


    That was enough.


    That single memory was enough to snuff out anyst flicker of sympathy she might have had for Walter. In the next moment, Evangeline arched an eyebrow and shot Walter a sidelong nce. "You want to watch the sunrise with me? What about your sweetheart Minnie? Or is this going to be a party of three?" Her lips curled into a smirk that did not quite reach her eyes, dripping with irony.


    Before Walter could even get a word in, Evangeline feigned a sudden realization, "Oh, speaking of Minnie, where is she? She sounded so smug on the phone, so why isn''t she here now that I''ve shown up to the party?"


    Walter, thinking of Minnie asleep in another VIP room, trotted out the excuse he had ready. "She''s feeling under the weather and went to rest."


    Evangeline was incredulous. "She''s unwell at a time like this?"


    She knew from their past run-ins that Minnie had never managed to best her. Since Minnie had finally snagged Walter, it was her one chance to reim some pride in front of Evangeline.


    "And anyway, even if she''s not feeling great, showing up for your birthday is a big deal. She should be here!N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

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    Chapter 467


    If it were Evangeline, not even the worst conditions could keep her away,e hell or high water. She would be there on time. It was not about Walter''s birthday; it was a matter of personal pride.


    Evangeline''s words grew more charged with every breath, and she shot Walter a look that was heavy with implication. "Seems like your new me isn''t all that into you, huh?" That look made Walter squirm.


    Minnie had been primping and preening non-stop since she got wind of the birthday meeting, wanting to look her absolute best for Walter. Walter kept his opinions about Minnie''s treatment of him to himself, but truth be told, she had really put in the effort for that asion. However, what was the point? He had no intention of letting Minnie steal the spotlight. After all, a show had just been a show-it always wrapped up, and the crowd went home.


    The only real things in life had been his wife and children.


    "Evangeline, it''s just us here now. Bringing up someone else all the time just kills the vibe," said Walter, his voice carrying a note of caution.


    That was when it clicked for Evangeline that she was nothing more than a stand-in.


    "So that''s why you dragged me up here to catch the sunrise. Your new sweetheart is under the weather and missed your birthday, so you roped me in as a backup," she deduced. How else could she make sense of it? It was supposed to be a trio at the outset, but when push came to shove, they were down to a duo.


    "You..."


    Walter was blindsided by her conclusion.


    He had only ever wanted to share the sunrise with Evangeline, and he even arranged the room to suit her tastes.


    However, Evangeline took his startled utterance as confirmation of her suspicions. "Hit a nerve, did I? See, I hit the nail on the head, and now you''re all fired up!"


    Evangeline pointed her index finger at Walter''s face, her smile teasing, but her eyes held a deepness that was hard to read.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Her heart felt sour, a mix of bitterness and sadness. She had been so excited to give Walter a birthday present, only to end up facing off with his mistress.


    With the mistress out of the picture due to illness, Evangeline found herself as the backup n, spending Walter''s birthday with him because histest me was absent.


    Walter was clueless about Evangeline''s inner turmoil. He just felt like her constant rejections were a blow to his pride, and his patience was wearing thin.


    "Are you in or out for the sunrise, Evangeline? I really don''t want to lose myposure today."


    ''Especially not with you.''


    Walter kept thest bit to himself, thinking that even if he said it out loud, Evangeline would not take it to heart.


    Growing up as the golden child of the Gordon family, his birthdays were always extravagant affairs, more about talking with business partners than celebrating him. Young Walter had always wished for a normal kid''s birthday-no strings attached, no crowd of strangers, just his nearest and dearest celebrating the day that marked another year of his life.


    This birthday, finally, was the one he had been dreaming of. The woman he cherished and his offspring were by his side, sharing in the warmth and joy of that extraordinary day,


    So, he had no desire to lose his temper. All he wanted was to spend some quiet time with Evangeline.

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    Chapter 468


    For some reason, even as Walter''s voice rang out in frustration, Evangeline saw only weariness in his eyes, which was a sight she had never witnessed in him before.


    In her eyes, Walter was unstoppable. No matter the workload or theplexity of his social life, he always seemed to glide through gatherings with a wine ss in hand, effortlessly bing the center of attention, the brightest star in the room. However, he was showing signs of fatigue. Was it the relentless demands of his job, or was it because of Minnie, who would not make an appearance simply because she was not feeling well?


    He was hurt, deeply affected by the woman he adored. What an irony it was that the woman he adored was not her.


    Her heart, once as sturdy as a rock, felt as if it had been punctured. Her once impregnable heart had crumbled in a moment.


    Evangeline found herself, against her better judgment, feeling a wave of tenderness for Walter


    She longed to be by his side.


    However, she had her own reasons, too.


    She dreamed that her child could spend time with his father, that they could be a family, sitting together, full of happiness just like in the movies.


    Since she could not share her life with Walter, it would be a great pity if they never experienced even that simple joy.


    Taking a deep breath, a flicker of resolve shone in her deep, dark eyes. "Walter, do you realize who''s here with you to watch the sunrise?"


    She was ready to join Walter in watching the sunrise, and even more, to be part of everything he wished for.


    However, if Walter''s heart was not truly in that, if she was just a stand-in for someone else, just a ceholder, what was the point of her being there? Evangeline''s love for Walter was unwavering, always. Her love ran so deep that she could not bear even the smallest imperfection in their rtionship. With things as they were, it was impossible to expect Walter to meet her halfway with the same fervor.


    All she wanted thus was for Walter to recognize who was standing by his side.


    Walter''s gaze was intense, his dark eyes reflecting Evangeline''s slightly chubby yet stunningly beautifulN?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    face.


    "I know, of course, I do." Walter''s voice was firm and sure.


    Right then, beside him, was his most beloved woman and their child yet to be born...


    Everything shifted with those words from Walter''s lips. The tension that had once defined them melted away in an instant.


    No more heated arguments. No more overpowering control. No ambiguous flirts or fiery moments.


    In that instant, they were like a couple who had weathered years together,fortable and fan


    He was steady and reserved. She was kind and caring Even their unexpected eye contact sparkled with contentment and joy


    It all felt so right, so perfect.


    It felt so perfect that Evangeline wondered if she was dreaming, a dream so wonderful she had not even dared to imagine it.


    In that dream, she and him, their life together, it was exactly like that... a stark contrast to the bustling dance floor below on the cruise ship.


    In Evangeline and Walter''s world, there was only tranquility.


    Walter presented her with a dress he had chosen with care.


    He never let on to Evangeline that he was the mastermind behind the design, crafting it specially for his wife-to-be, who was expecting their children.


    He had hoped to see her slip into it, but faced with her bashful, delicate charm, he chose to be a gentleman just this once, leaving Evangeline to the privacy of the room. Chapter 469

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    Chapter 469


    Alone in the vacant room, Evangeline''s cheeks were on fire. Sitting on the bed, she clutched at her chest, taking deep breaths for what felt like an eternity until she could steady her racing heart. It was all too much....


    Walter was irresistibly charming. How could she possibly hold back?


    He was the man she would give everything to adore. Then, with just a touch of his tenderness, she was on the verge of sumbing.


    What was she to do?


    Evangeline peered at her reflection, her eyes alive with a youthful glow. Her face was warmed by a rosy blush, and her lips, bitten in a nervous flutter, betrayed her inner turmoil.


    That was the unmistakable look of someone swept up in the throes of a passionate romance, was it not?


    ''No, that would not do, Evangeline. It was all just an act.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    ''Walter wants you by his side for his birthday. That''s why he''s showering you with kindness now, but it''s all for him, all because Minnie didn''t show up.


    ''In truth, this whole charade, everyst detail, was conjured up by Walter for Minnie. So, Evangeline, you can''t afford to be this weak! Enjoy the moment, sure, but don''t lose yourself in it!


    ''Once tonight is over, once dawn breaks, the dream will shatter. You and Walter will part ways, returning to the separate lives you led...''


    Evangeline''s inner pep talk worked wonders, her sense of reason snapping back into ce. She approached the mirror and, with a steady hand, unfurled the dress Walter had presented to her.


    It was a white silk dress, a testament to impable design.


    Evangeline''s dress, with its vintage cor and cascading butterflyce around her midsection, draped over her baby bump in the most ttering way. The gown swept down to her ankles, and the delicatece trim put the spotlight on her slender, fair ankles.


    It was the kind of dress that kept her cozy without weighing her down, stunning without leaving her shivering.


    Even on the chilliest winter days, Evangeline felt nothing but warmth wrapped in that fabric.


    Catching her reflection, she could not help but smile gracefully, feeling the dress''s embrace.


    At first touch, the material had seemed as light as silk, but it was surprisingly toasty, a delightful shock to Evangeline.


    Those folks who were always trying to impress Walter must have dug up that quirky, exotic textile from who knows where.


    Still, Walter had picked out that dress for her, keeping herfort in mind. That thought alone made her feel warmer than any dress ever could.


    The dress was meant to be paired with heels, but Evangeline had not brought any, and Walter had not


    thought to provide them. So, ts it was as she stepped out of the room.


    Up on the cruise ship''s rooftop, the wind was a wild symphony in Evangeline''s ears, yet her gaze was locked on the scene before her. Candles danced, and the festive lights swayed, casting a magical glow on everything.


    There stood Walter, elevated above the rest, decked out in a crisp white suit, the epitome of a gentleman, waiting silently by the table.


    As Evangeline approached, he rose and walked briskly to her side.


    They both halted, as if on cue. A hush fell between them, a silent agreement hanging in the air.


    Right then, Evangeline''s eyes sparkled, captivated by the sight of Walter in his crisp white suit. Walter was just as in awe.


    He gazed at Evangeline, her pretty face lit up in the soft light, and he did not hold back his praise. "You look stunning. This dress is perfect for you."


    +

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    Chapter 470


    Walter''spliment was simple, almost too simple, but it struck a chord.


    Seeing the light flicker in Evangeline''s eyes, Walter had a sudden epiphany. This was the first time he had ever reallyplimented his wife since they got married.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    A rush of emotion hit him, and he realized just how much he had failed her. He also understood why Evangeline''s uncles never missed a chance to call him a monster. Evangeline, such a beautiful soul, deserved to be cherished like royalty. Instead, what had she endured since she had been with him?


    First, there was the neglect, then the emotional coldness, and eventually, it turned into outright hostility.


    Evangeline watched Walter, silent and brooding, and her heart was filled with anxiety.


    She remembered him as harsh and distant. However, the image of Walter in her mind was blending with that of gentle Alex, almost eclipsing Alex''s memory... Could it be that Walter was Alex in disguise, or had he somehow changed?


    Feeling a bit awkward, she lifted her hand and gestured toward the table set with a candlelit dinner. "Hey, Walter... aren''t you going to ask me to sit down over there?"


    It would be silly for them to just stand on the rooftop all night, bathed in candlelight and sea breeze, would it not?


    Evangeline''s nudge snapped Walter back to reality. His face flickered with a moment of embarrassed distraction before he reached out his hand, inviting Evangeline to join him.


    He thoughtfully pulled a chair for her and waited until she wasfortably seated. Instead of walking away, he produced a clean, damp napkin and, to Evangeline''s surprise, gently wiped off her light makeup. She tried to pull away, but Walter''s firm grip kept her still as he carefully wiped her face.


    They were so close that she could nearly count his eyshes.


    However, Walter waspletely focused on her, his touch soft, his eyes intense, treating her with the utmost care as if he was afraid of causing her the slightest difort.


    Was this even real? Was Walter actually being that gentle with her?


    Evangeline was staggered by the thought. If Walter had not been holding her, she might have bolted.


    Then, Walter''s deep voice broke the silence.


    "You don''t need makeup when you''re with me."


    In just minutes, the lightly made-up Evangeline was bare-faced, looking at Walter without any facade.


    "Walter, you''re going to make me get the wrong idea," Evangeline managed to say, fighting back a lump in her throat.


    She did not want to misinterpret that.


    However, she, who had always felt neglected by him, fel


    Evangeline felt a jolt of shock so intense that it was al pregnancy senses. The world had flipped upside down "Don''t get it twisted I wanted to do this," said Walter, seat across from Evangeline, locking eyes with her..


    He was not a fan of her makeup. He longed to see Eve true, unadorned self. Thus, wiping away her carefully ap With a soft hum, Evangeline pulled back her gaze, tuck spill over. If Minnie had not been under the weather, the woman.


    However, she, who had always felt by him, felt like a treasured princess in the palm of his hand.


    Evangeline felt a jolt of shock so intense that it was almost too much for her already heightened pregnancy senses. The world had flipped upside down in an instant.


    "Don''t get it twisted-I wanted to do this," said Walter, setting aside the makeup-stained napkin. He took a seat across from Evangeline, locking eyes with her..


    He was not a fan of her makeup. He longed to see Evangeline, his Evangeline, without any masks-her true, unadorned self. Thus, wiping away her carefully applied facade brought him an odd sense of joy. With a soft hum, Evangeline pulled back her gaze, tucking away the storm of emotions that threatened to


    festivities would have been for another spill over. If Minnie had not been under the weather, the night


    woman.

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    Chapter 471


    Evangeline had not forgotten, not for a second. However, she had to hand it to Walter, even with ast-minute leadingdy swap, he yed his part to the hilt What a show ofmitment.


    Out of nowhere, the sweet strains of a violin filled the air, weaving a melody that washed over her, stirring something deep within.


    Walter caught her eye, as if he could read her every thought, and stood. He leaned in, offering his hand just like he had at the masquerade ball, behind that quirky green frog mask. Evangeline''s heart clenched, caught in an invisible grip, leaving her at a loss for words. Then, his voice broke through her trance.


    "Would the beautiful princess honor me with a dance?"


    Instinctively, her hand reached for his. However, as she tried to rise, her body froze, caught in the moment''s gravity.


    "Sorry, I''m in ts today, not exactly dance-floor material."


    She quickly looked down, locking away the storm of feelings behind her eyes.


    Once upon a time, she would dance in secret, earning the nickname ''Nightclub Queen'' among the crowd.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    However, even her best friend Roslyn did not know why she loved to dance so much. It was all because Evangeline knew about Walter''s impressive moves. She was scared that his brilliance would just leave her in the shadows, so she kept practicing, hoping to match his shine.


    All she ever wanted was to be his equal. Sadly, she never got the chance to share a full dance with Walter.


    When the moment finally came, she was stuck in the wrong shoes.


    Just then, her icy, nervous fingers were suddenly warmed by a strong, gentle grip.


    Walter''s presence was undeniable. With a swift turn, Evangeline found herself wrapped in his arms.


    "Who cares about t shoes? It''s about the dancer, not the shoes," said Walter with a shrug, guiding Evangeline with his smooth moves.


    In the soft glow of the candles and lights, they swayed to the sweet music, the sea breeze, their silent


    partner.


    Little did they know...


    On the cruise ship, a thunderous heavy metal symphony was rocking everyone''s world. Around the corner, in a VIP room, a woman who had been deep in slumber cracked open her eyes, confused. What was going on?


    Minnie''s vision was a blur. She rubbed her eyes hard, and the world slowly snapped back into focus. However, it was night, and all she could see was darkness.


    Her memory had hit a wall right after that ss of red wine.


    Minnie was aware that she was not the best at holding her liquor, but she could usually manage a ss of


    red wine without any trouble.


    Tonight, however, something felt off. As she jolted awake, a sense of danger prickled at her senses. She sat up, her gaze drawn to the window where the world outside buzzed with light and life, a stark contrast to the darkness of her room. Her head pounded with an unusual intensity, and it did not take long for her to realize she had been drugged-a heavy-duty kind that could knock her out cold.


    She had nned everything down to thest detail, all to celebrate Walter''s birthday. Instead, she found herself drugged and alone in the dark. Who would dare mess with her and Walter like that?


    Minnie''s fists tightened, anger ring in her eyes.

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    However, Minnie''s anger had to wait.


    A sudden memory hit her. Walter''s party had started at 10 in the morning, and then it was way past bedtime. If she hurried, she could still make it in time to give Walter his birthday surprise.


    Without her phone and without anyone to help, Minnie knew she had only one option, and that was to find Walter on her own.


    With her mind made up, she did not waste another second. She slipped into her high heels and stepped out of the room.


    The world outside her door was a whirlwind of life and noise, a total flip from the silence she had been trapped in. Ignoring the throbbing in her head, she moved through the crowd, her steps uneven but persistent. The dance floor was alive with energy, with couples spinning to the beat. Others lounged around, soaking in the scene. Minnie pushed forward, driven by a single goal-to find Walter before the night slipped away. Minnie spotted Walter''s best friend Caden in an instant


    Under normal circumstances, she would have thrown a friendly ''hey'' his way. However, nothing mattered more than tracking down Walter to wish him well, so she brushed off everything else.


    She bolted from the ballroom without a second thought, convinced Walter would not be caught dead in a ce like that.


    She ran through the ship, checking out every possible hideout, but Walter was nowhere to be seen.


    With her heart sinking, Minnie stepped out of her room, needing to get some fresh air on the deck to clear her mind.


    Out of the blue, a cozy glow from above snagged her attention. She hustled towards the light, only to find two silhouettes twirling in the dance of light.


    In a heartbeat, Minnie knew who they were.


    Walter and... Evangeline!


    Minnie''s fists clenched tight. If looks could kill, the air around her would have turned to dust.


    Everything clicked.


    It was Evangeline! She was the one who had slipped her the drug, then swooped in on Walter while she


    was out cold!


    Minnie spat out in disgust.


    ''Evangeline, oh Evangeline, you''re the worst! Walter can''t stand you, yet you''re still trying so hard to charm him!'' she fumed silently.


    As for Walter, he must have been ckmailed by Evangeline, threatening her own safety. That had to be why Minnie was witnessing that mess!


    The more Minnie stewed over it, the hotter her anger burned. She fantasized about storming into that


    cozy, warmly lit room and giving Evangeline, who was twirl


    However, she held back, Keeping herposure in front c mattered was the decision she had just made in her head:


    How could she stand by while that snake of a woman, who carrying his child, continued to breathe the same air as heContent ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Minnie was determined to show Evangeline that all her tit Violin Prodigy,'' or the ''Foster Family''s Darling''-meant zilc gone, all it would take was one phone call.


    With a gaze fierce as a me, Minnie glided with poise to but to primp in front of the cruise ship''s ubiquitous ss. wiped it away.


    cozy, warmly lit room and giving Evangeline, who was twirling around with Walter, a piece of her mind!


    However, she held back. Keeping herposure in front of Walter was one thing, but what really mattered was the decision she had just made in her head: Evangeline had to go.


    How could she stand by while that snake of a woman, who did nothing but charm Walter and was then carrying his child, continued to breathe the same air as her?


    Minnie was determined to show Evangeline that all her titles-whether it was the ''Motorcycle Queen,'' the '' Violin Prodigy,'' or the ''Foster Family''s Darling''-meant zilch in her presence. If she wanted Evangeline gone, all it would take was one phone call.


    With a gaze fierce as a me, Minnie glided with poise towards the ballroom. She paused, not to enter, but to primp in front of the cruise ship''s ubiquitous ss. A smudge on her eyeliner? No problem, she wiped it away. Chapter 473

 473

    Chapter 473


    +25 BORUS


    Minnie''s hair was a tad unruly, but her fingers worked through it, smoothing it back to sleek perfection. Catching her own reflection, finally free from the mess and shining bright, Minnie shed a self-satisfied grin and sauntered into the ballroom. Whether it was Julia or Minnie, they were always the center of attention-unless Evangeline was around.


    So when the revamped Minnie stepped in, she instantly drew many admiring looks. The crowd watched her with hopeful eyes, each man aboard the ship wondering who might win her favor. With a casual flick of her delicate hand, she singled out the most unremarkable guy tucked away in the


    corner.


    Eyes from all corners of the room zeroed in on the man as he rose from his seat, his hands shaking like leaves in a storm.


    Minnie, with the spotlight on her, sauntered over to him and murmured, "Hey, could you... help me out?"


    Her eyes sparkled with mischief, practically casting a spell on him.


    The guy, who looked like he had never been the center of attention before, was rooted to the spot and nervously mumbled, "Sure." "Great... follow me." She reached out with her delicate finger, yfully catching the high cor of his shirt as the crowd watched.


    They walked off, the mismatched duo disappearing from view, leaving a trail of whispers behind.


    The stir Minnie caused was so big that even Caden, who had been happily blending into the crowd, took notice.


    However, something did not sit right with him.


    Was that not the same Minnie who was all over Waltertely? What was she doing, showing up at Walter''s birthday bash, flirting with some random guy and then whisking him away?


    The more Caden thought about it, the more he was convinced Walter was heading for trouble.


    "Mr. Scott, you''re a million miles away. What''s up?" Felicia, the fresh-faced model, nudged him with her wine ss, her voice dripping with sweetness.


    Yes, she had set her sights on Walter at first, but he was as romantic as a brick wall. Caden, on the other hand, was twice as charming without even trying. So she switched gears,ying on the charm thick with Caden.


    "It''s nothing," Caden replied, taking a sip of his wine and giving her a gentle word. "I''ve got to duck out for a bitter, just hang tight and have fun, okay?"


    He might not have known the full story between Walter and Minnie, but there was no way he would just stand by when a friend was in trouble.


    What he did not realize was that Minnie, who seemed charming and gentle as she left the dance hall with a man, suddenly turned ice-cold.


    425 BONUS


    "Sir, I need your phone."


    The man was taken aback by her sudden shift, but his deep-seated timidity made himply and hand over his phone.


    Minnie was pleased with the unlocked phone she held. She nced up and asked, "Got a pen?"


    The man was thrown off by her abrupt question. "Yes, right here," he said, fumbling for a ck pen from his pocket.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Minnie snatched the pen, grabbed his hand, and scribbled down a phone number.


    "I''m keeping the phone. Call this number to sort outpensation."


    She let go of the pen without a care if he caught it and strode off toward the far end of the deck.

 474

    Chapter 474


    Bathed in the soft glow of the lights, Minnie stood by the cruise ship''s railing, pulled out the phone, and dialed a number. A stranger''s voice answered. "Hello, who are you looking for?"


    Lydia, ever cautious since her hospital escape, never took calls from unknown numbers.


    Minnie was aware of that and did not bother with pleasantries. "It''s Minnie. Put Mrs. Lydia on the phone, quick."


    Lydia''s voice came through shortly after. "Julia, you know I avoid unknown calls. Why''d you dial me with a strange number?"


    "There''s been a bit of trouble, and it''s too much to exin right now."


    Minnie rolled her eyes at the thought of drudging through a mess of details. "Mom, cut to the chase. You saidst time that everything was set, we just needed to find that woman. Was that for real?


    Lydia could not hide the smugness in her voice as she replied, "Absolutely. The moment Evangeline, that little snake,nds in my grasp, she''s done for!"


    "Perfect!" That was exactly what Minnie was waiting to hear. "I''ll text you the location. Get ready fast. And Mom, ns have changed. I''m not after her kid anymore, I want... her life!"


    With a flick of her wrist, Minnie tossed her phone into the endless sea, watching it make a tiny ssh before disappearing.


    Evangeline was pregnant and not up for much. A few dances with Walter and she was beat. Post-dinner, they naturally headed back to the room Walter had set up just for her.


    Theyy side by side on the big bed, both staring up at the stars as if they had nned it.


    The room was free of any romantic vibes. There was none of the fiery passion they would expect from a couple who had been apart for ages. It was more like an old married couple, holding hands and counting stars, fighting to keep their eyes open just to keep the conversation going.


    "Feeling sleepy?"


    Walter noticed the silence beside him and turned his attention to Evangeline. He sat up, flicked on the night light, and saw her eyes gently closed, breathing steady. She was out like a light.


    She must have been dreaming something sweet because even in her sleep, her lips were curled into a


    smile.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Adorable.


    Walter''s hand moved as if it had a mind of its own, tenderly caressing her soft cheek in a moment of uncontroble affection.


    Evangeline slept peacefully, her cuteness rivaling that of an angel misced on earth.


    The soft glow of the dim light illuminated her profile, enhancing the natural beauty of her makeup-free,


    Chaptm 474


    smiling face.


    Something deep within Walter stirred, and before he knew it, his lips were drawn to the sleeping beauty before him. He gently kissed Evangeline''s forehead, a gesture he had once thought sentimental until his actions proved the depth of his feelings. At that moment, Walter''s heart swelled with rity. With Evangeline and his child by his side, he wanted nothing more in life.


    Their tranquil moment was abruptly interrupted by the shrill ring of a phone. Walter snatched it up and rushed from the room, only then noticing the name shing on the screen-Caden.

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    Chapter 475


    Walter''s attention had been solely on Evangeline throughout the entire cruise party. As the festivities wound down, he realized he had neglected to spend time with his good friend Caden. With a sense of duty, Walter answered the call.


    "Walter, where the heck are you? Don''t tell me you invited us on this cruise and then decided to y hide-and-seek," Caden''s voice came through, half-joking, half-annoyed. Walter could not help but smile, unfazed. "Of course not, I''m here. Just got tied up with some stuff and couldn''t make it until now. How about we catch up over a drink now?"


    Walter tossed out his idea with such ease, his breezy voice hiding the fact that he would rather be anywhere else.


    Who would ditch their wife to hang out with a buddy, right?


    "Look, the drinks are just a bonus, Walter. I have to know: What''s the deal with you and Minnie? You even invited her to your birthday bash. Don''t tell me the gossip''s true... you''re looking to trade in Evangeline?" Caden threw the question out there with aid-back vibe, but the question itself was dead serious.


    The moment the words left his mouth, Walter knew something was up. "Caden, how on earth did you find


    out Minnie was on the cruise?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter had brought Minnie aboard much earlier, when it was just the Gordon family on the ship, and he had taken care of Minnie''s situation in a snap.


    Caden could not have seen Minnie, not unless...


    Minnie had slipped out!


    Caden, clueless about the drama on Walter''s end, continued with the conversation, "You don''t know? Minnie was strutting around the dance hall, turning heads left and right. How could I miss her? Walter, hope everything''s alright?" By the end, even Caden sensed trouble brewing.


    Minnie on the cruise had to mean Walter had allowed it. However, Walter was in the dark....


    "Can''t chat now, gotta bail on tonight, buddy. I owe you one for the drinks, we''ll catch upter!" Walter cut the chit-chat, ended the call, and dialed up David.


    The moment Walter heard the click of the call connecting, he did not even let David get a word in.


    "David, get to Minnie''s room, now! Check if she''s there and call me back, pronto!"


    However, just three minutester, Walter''s phone rang with news that sent a chill through his veins. Minnie, who had been knocked out unconscious with a sedative and locked in the cruise ship''s VIP suite, was gone!


    Walter was on his feet in an instant. He quickly made sure Evangeline was safe before storming over to Minnie''s room. The room was untouched, spotless, except for the rumpled bed that showed someone had been sleeping there. That could only mean one thing: Minnie had walked out on her own!


    David''s eyes swept the room. As the truth hit him, rage bubbled up inside.


    He was in charge of Walter''s ns, and he knew just how crucial Minnie was to Walter. His face turned a shade of thunderous blue, and hended a hefty p on the nearest bodyguard''s cheek. "You had one job: keep an eye on her!" he bellowed. "How on earth did you let her slip away?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 476

    Chapter 476


    was out like a light, so we... we just lost track of her!


    David was strong and his anger fierce. The bodyguard, caught off-guard, was knocked t. Knowing his error, the bodyguard did not even try to stand, instead pleading from the floor. "Mr. Zimmer, we messed up! We got caught up in all the excitement outside, and she *Please, just let us off the hook this one time. Next time, I swear, you could knock me out cold, and I''d still be glued to that door, not budging an inch!"


    The bodyguards were all pleading, their faces long and gloomy, echoing the lead bodyguard''s desperate plea.


    "Next time, you say?" David smirked coldly, his teeth a stark white against the dim backdrop, giving off an ominous vibe. However, it was his words that really sent shivers down the spine. "After losing the person Mr. Walter Gordon wanted, do you really think there''s going to be a ''next time"?"


    Right then, Walter burst into the room, nked by his own bodyguards. He plopped down on the couch, his face a stormy shade of furious.


    David, catching sight of Walter, snapped to attention and quickly reported.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, we''ve figured it out. These knuckleheads thought Ms. Kast was out cold, so they snuck off for a bit of fun. By the time I got your call and sent them back to check, Ms. Kast had vanished!"


    Walter cut him off mid-sentence, "I don''t care about the y-by-y right now. Where is Minnie? She''s not exactly the type to go far, especially on a cruise ship. Get moving and find her!"


    At the mention of Minnie, David''s guilt washed over him again, his face going ghostly pale. "Mr. Walter Gordon, as soon as I realized Ms. Kast was missing, I sent out a search party. We''vebed through the ship three times over..." David''s voice wavered, his Adam''s apple bobbing as he braced himself to


    continue.


    "Okay, it''s official. Ms. Kast is definitely not on the cruise ship!"


    With a loud snap, the ashtray next to Walter crashed to the floor. In a fit of rage, he had smashed it to bits. The pieces flew everywhere, some even nicking the face of the bodyguard kneeling before him. Blood trickled down the guard''s face, but the room was dead silent. Walter could not contain his anger as he bellowed, "What''s the point of telling me this? I need to find her! If she''s alive, I want to see her. If she''s dead, I want to see the proof! If she''s not on the ship, then search beyond it!"


    David had not seen Walter this livid in ages. He quickly responded, "Right away, sir! I''ll get a team on it!"


    "And if you can''t find her, don''t bothering back!" Walter''s voice was thick with fury as he dismissed them with a wave.


    David wasted no time, ushering his team out the door. The injured bodyguard scrambled to his feet, ready to follow.


    ""Hold on!"


    David was almost out the door when Walter''s urgent call stopped him in his tracks. He knew better than


    to keep Walter waiting and asked, "Mr. Walter Gordon, any further instructions?"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Walter simply gestured toward the bodyguards. That one small move made every guard in the room inhale sharply.


    Their moment of reckoning hade.


    "The Gordon family doesn''t pay for ckers. Your guys aren''t cutting it. Fire them, and find some bodyguards who can actually do their job."

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    Chapter 477


    While everyone else was off having a good time, Walter, David, and their bodyguards chaotically scrambled to get things under control.


    Walter realized that staying in the room would not change a thing. So, he decided to stick close to Evangeline, watching over her as she slept soundly through the night. Minnie was not the average troublemaker; she had the Bennison family in her corner. Whatever stunt she pulled, it never really came as a shock to him.


    David''s investigation revealed that when Minnie made her getaway, he and Evangeline had been cutting a rug on the rooftop.


    The rooftop was a stone''s throw from her room, so close that she did not even need to step outside to spot the dancing duo.


    However, Walter''s worry was not for Minnie. It was all for Evangeline.


    If Minnie caught a glimpse of Evangeline getting cozy with him, her spiteful streak would kick in, and she would use her power to make Evangeline regret it. Everyone else might brush it off, but not Evangeline. Whenever she was involved, Walter would lose hisposure, like a storm that could not be quelled.


    As Walter wrestled with his nerves, dawn''was breaking, painting the first light across the sky.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The ocean sunrise was on the horizon.


    Gathering his thoughts, Walter approached Evangeline and gently nudged her shoulder.


    "Mmm..." Evangeline murmured something in her sleep and slowly opened her eyes to Walter''s call.


    "Walter?" Her voice wasced with surprise, but as the memories ofst night flooded back, she quickly turned her head away, her cheeks coloring with embarrassment.


    Walter, trying to keep his voice steady, offered a gentle suggestion, "The sunrise is about to start. How about we watch it from here, in the room?" He did his best to suppress his anxiety and spoke gently with Evangeline, trying to negotiate softly. Minnie was still nowhere to be found.


    Walter could not guess what Minnie might do next to target Evangeline, so he figured the safest bet was to stay put in the room.


    Besides, the room was lined with windows. Sure, they were separated from the fresh air by a pane of ss, but it was almost like being outside.


    To Evangeline, however, Walter''s idea felt like a warmth she had never felt before.


    So, it was not a dream-Walter had really changed.


    Evangeline caught his gaze, those deep-set eyes of his, and realized he was waiting for her to respond.


    "Okay."


    The morning sea breeze was chilly, and Evangeline, who hated the cold, had zero desire to step outside. Wrapped up in her nket, she sat by the window, eager to catch the fiery sun peeking above the horizon. Walter, on the other hand, was not there for the sunrise. He reached out and pulled Evangeline, nket and all, into a warm hug.


    Sunrises at sea did notst long. With each second the sun climbed, the scene around them transformed.


    Evangeline was captivated by the spectacle, silent the entire time.


    Just like that, the sunrise was over,


    Walter, watching the sun spread light and warmth over the ocean, finally voiced the question that had been on his mind since his return from Alex''s. "Evangeline, do you regret marrying me?"


    He knew she had married the wrong guy. He knew he had not been good to her since they tied the knot.


    He had a hunch that Evangeline''s response would be distant and heartless. Even so, he could not let it go without asking her directly,

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    Chapter 478


    Evangeline froze. She could not fathom why Walter would blurt such an odd question.


    She was head over heels for Walter. The thought of marrying him filled her with such secret delight that she could barely contain it. Regret was thest thing on her mind.


    However, the harsh truth silenced the words she longed to say.


    Reflecting on the joyless marriage, Evangeline went quiet.


    She wriggled free from Walter''s arms and sat across from him, their eyes meeting.


    Her beautiful eyes mirrored Walter''s face, the one she had been dreaming of, and her stern look melted into one of ease and happiness.


    Walter caught every flicker of change in her, and his heart quietly danced to the rhythm of her moods.


    Maybe it was the intensity of Walter''s stare that made Evangeline look away, feeling guilty. Her eyes drifted to the newly risen sun.


    Time seemed to stand still until Walter finally heard Evangeline''s voice.


    "Why get hung up on the past?" she said softly. Her hand gently caressed her growing belly, and as she lifted her gaze, she radiated with the warmth of impending motherhood. "You gave me this little life, Walter, and for that... I''m grateful." She kept her true feelings.


    Their marriage was but a shell, held together only by the child and Cole''s illness.


    Walter had found his own slice of happiness. What good would it do to share her real emotions at this point?


    Those feelings should be let go, carried off by the wind. She could then keep herst bit of pride in front of Walter. Walter was silent.


    Her silence was as loud as regret in his ears. He had to face the harsh truth Alex hadid out for him.


    Evangeline had married the wrong guy. Evangeline regretted marrying him...


    Then, out of nowhere, he saw a slight smile on Evangeline''s face. "Mr. Walter Gordon, the sunrise has ended. It''s time for me to head back."


    Her voice was a whisper, almost like she was just making a casualment.


    However, the way she said ''Mr. Walter Gordon'' with no warmth, it was like a quiet reminder of the space between them.


    Walter inhaled deeply.


    "Okay, I''ll walk you back."


    The cruise ship was at the dock, and the guests, still wanting more, slowly made their way off.


    Walter, worried about Evangeline getting bumped in the crowd, waited until thest one was off before letting her go.


    The deck was lined with bodyguards. Evangeline led the way, and Walter trailed behind.


    They were almost off the ship when Evangeline stopped short. Walter stopped too, just in time to avoid crashing into her.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    In the next moment, Evangeline reached out her slender arm and wrapped it around Walter''s waist.


    It was a hug. A hug that carried no bitterness, no distaste, just pure release.


    Evangeline barely pressed into him, her chin resting gently against his shoulder as she embraced him.


    However, the hug was over in a sh,sting a mere three seconds.


    Walter barely had time to soak in the warmth from Evangeline before she stepped back, putting space between them. Then, she said, "My uncle has sent a whole squad to look after me, so you don''t have toe along. "Plus, I snuck out. If he spots you, it''ll just stir up more trouble."


    With those words, Evangeline gave Walter a wave.

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    Chapter 479


    "See youter, Walter."


    It was not a final goodbye, but a promise of another meeting.


    There Walter stood, watching Evangeline leave the cruise ship, quickly shielded by a swarm of bodyguards.


    Just then, David, looking worried, hurried over to Walter with an update. "Mr. Walter Gordon, we''ve figured it out. Ms. Kast took the cruise ship''s lifeboat to shore. Our guys have been on her trail, and she wasst seen in the Newstead Zone." "Did you find her?" Walter''s voice was icy.


    David went pale. "Not yet, but I''m about to lead a team there!"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Walter gestured dismissively at David. "Forget it, I''ll go find Minnie myself. You take extra people and make sure Mrs. Gordon gets back to the Fosters'' ce safe and sound!"


    Evangeline had slipped away like a shadow, and Holden, with a whole squad of bodyguards in tow, was a silent testament to one thing: The Foster family was on high alert, knowing she might be walking into danger. They were not taking any chances with her safety. The grapevine had not given him the full picture yet, but one thing was crystal clear: He was not about to gamble with Evangeline''s well-being.


    Evangeline was worried that something bad might happen when Walter and Holden met, so of course, Walter was not about to be the one to walk her into that. Lucky for him, David had just rolled back into town. Handing Evangeline off to David was a no-brainer-he was trustworthy.


    David''s eyes flickered with a hint of doubt, but one look at Walter''s no-nonsense expression, and he was nodding like a bobblehead. "Got it, boss. I''m on it!"


    He knew Evangeline''s next move before she did-she would make a beeline for the Emerald of the Hignds'' vis as soon as she shook off Walter. That meant Dannington Road was her path home, and David was going to shadow her every step of the way, just as Walter had ordered.


    With the n set, Walter and his entourage of guards peeled out.


    Newstead Zone was not exactly the bustling heart of the city. Nestled among the mountains, it was a bit on the rough side and did not exactly have people tripping over each other. Minnie had picked that spot toy low, probably betting on the seclusion and the rugged terrain to keep her out of the spotlight.


    Walter knew he had to act fast to catch Minnie before she vanished into the mountains, where she would be nearly impossible to find.


    However, as he arrived in the Newstead Zone, his mission was interrupted by a shocking news sh on an old TV in a local''s house where he was gathering information.


    "Urgent news update. A catastrophic multi-car pile-up urred on Dannington Road in the heart of Avalon City at 12:38 p.m. today. Preliminary reports indicate that up to two hundred seventy vehicles are wrecked, with the number of casualties soaring past a thousand..."


    "Which highway?"


    Walter''s gaze was glued to the flickering ck-and-white screen, his eyes so red they looked like they might start bleeding.


    His bodyguard, sensing the urgency, quickly looked up the news on his phone and handed it to Walter, who felt a wave of darkness wash over him.


    If his memory served him right, Dannington Road was the exact route Evangeline would take to get back to Emerald of the Hignds from her sea trip!


    The thought struck Walter like a lightning bolt, nearly shattering him.


    The idea of Evangeline being one of the many victims, possibly lying lifeless and disfigured in his arms, sent a surge of panic through him, and his knees buckled.

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    Chapter 480


    Thankfully, his bodyguard was alert and caught Walter just in time. "Mr. Walter Gordon, are you okay?"


    Struggling to stay upright, Walter managed to muster his remaining wits and said, "Quick, get David on the linel"


    He had sent David to guard Evangeline, so at that critical moment, reaching out to David was the key to thetest scoop.


    He had to find out if Evangeline was on that highway when everything went down.


    The bodyguards, clueless but not wasting a second, got David on the line.


    After what felt like forever of just ringing, David''s harsh coughs finally broke through.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve failed, I just... I couldn''t keep Mrs. Gordon safe..."


    David''s voice was scratchy, like it had been dragged over rough sandpaper. By the end, he could even hear him choking up. "David, spit it out! What''s this ''couldn''t keep her safe'' all about?" Walter yelled, losing itpletely with the shock of the news. "..."


    David was about to spilt more, but all that came was a burst of static. A nurse''s voice cut in, "Hello, is this a rtive of the patient? He''s in bad shape and is about to be rushed into surgery. You need to get to City General Hospital, like, now!" Beep, beep, beep!


    All Walter got then was the dead-line tone.


    It hit him suddenly that Evangeline''s route home would have taken her down Dannington Road. David, in his duty to protect her, would have been there too.


    If Evangeline was hurt, David could not be faring much better, right?


    However, then...


    For a split second, Walter zoned out, his mind snapping back to just 30 minutes before. The memory of Evangeline''s warm hug and herughter as she waved goodbye haunted Walter. "No, Evangeline, I can''t let you leave!"


    Without a second thought, Walter wrapped his arms around her.


    He could not bear the thought of losing her again.


    If he could just keep Evangeline, who


    ds in such a hurry to get home, right there with him, she would not be caught in that horrific pile-up on the highway. She would not be missing, her fate unknown.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon! Mr. Walter Gordon, are you okay, Mr. Walter Gordon?"


    Walter''s nose throbbed with pain, and when he opened his eyes, the world had transformed.


    Gone was his luxury yacht, and gone was Evangeline''s farewell. Instead, he found himself clutching the waist of a tall, pale-faced bodyguard in a ck suit. The bodyguard''s eyes were wide with shock.


    Walter let go as if he had been zapped, struggling to find his footing. He stood up, leaning on the bodyguard for support.


    That was not a dream. It was all too real


    Evangeline had been on that highway, and David had followed her, ending up in a crash. At this moment, David was fighting for his life in the City General Hospital... Evangeline... Was she really gone? Would he never see her again? Was theirst goodbye meant to be forever?


    It could not be true. They had not found their happy ending yet, and their child had not even been born. How could Evangeline be gone?


    -


    City General Hospital.


    The pile-up on Dannington Road was catastrophic, with too many people hurt or worse.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    The hospital corridors were lined with the wounded: Some with arms in slings, others with legs in casts, and a few with their heads swathed in bandages. Meanwhile, Walter''s right-hand man, David, was in the operating room, fighting for his life.


    Walter stood outside the surgery, staring at the ominous red light. A grim thought crossed his mind-at least after a crash, he knew if someone made it or not

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    Chapter 481


    It was much better than Evangeline''s situation, where there still had not been a word of news...


    Walter, who never was one for prayers, found himself pressing his palms together over his heart, wishing with all his might, ''Evangeline, you have to be okay! Please,e back to us safe and sound!'' Walter could not spare a thought for the Foster family''s chaos, but as Evangeline''s own family, they were in total disarray.


    The Fosters were the first in Avalon City to hear about the disaster on Dannington Road.


    Just as Evangeline and Walter had parted ways, Holden had gotten word that Evangeline was headed back to the vi. It was then the bombshell dropped.


    Holden was shell-shocked. It hit him like a ton of bricks, and he could not make sense of it all.


    Evangeline had been on that highway. Evangeline might be... gone.


    Impossible!


    Holden refused to ept that could be the truth.


    As soon as he caught wind of the news, his first thought was of Cole, still on the mend. Thus, he made sure the folks at the old house mped down on any leaks. Cole should never catch wind of today''s headlines! Once he had locked that down, he hit up his older bro Yale on the phone.


    The brothers, heartbroken, were also seething at Walter, the lowlife.


    They were set on one thing: Find Walter first, then worry about the consequences after they had dealt


    with him.


    After Holden had his crew on the hunt for Evangeline, sparing no expense, he zipped over to City General Hospital where Walter was holed up.


    Yale, an exmando, towered like a giant. Holden, though not as bulky, was no slouch in the strength department. With a posse of bodyguards in tow, they marched toward Walter, looking like trouble with a capital T. David was still in surgery, and Walter, camped out in the waiting area, spotted Evangeline''s unclesing


    in hot.


    He gave his guys the look, telling them to stick around for David''s exit, then beelined it to Yale and Holden. "You have to know about Evangeline. She..." Walter choked on the words, the reality too bitter to swallow.


    However, Yale and Holden had that look. They knew the bad news.


    "Walter, how about you step outside with us?" interjected Holden. "This ce is swarming with patients, and it''s not the spot for this kind of chat."


    Holden was all about getting down to business, his eyes on Walter, shing a warning.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter had a hunch that Holden''s ''quick trip outside'' meant trouble. He looked to Yale, the older of the


    +25 BONE


    two, for some kind of intervention, but Yale just blinked slowly, not saying a word. The message was loud


    and clear.


    Resigned to his fate, Walter mustered his courage and followed Yale and Holden out of the hospital. A major emergency had the medical staff running ragged, leaving the garden eerily empty. The three of them settled on a spot without much thought.


    Walter hoped Evangeline''s uncles would at least y fair and let him get a word in.


    However, Holden had reached his boiling point.

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    Chapter 482


    Holden knew that in a fair fight, he and Yale might not be able to take down Walter. However, with the element of surprise on his side, things were different. He caught Walter off guard with a swift kick to the gut.


    Walter let out a muffled groan, his face turning pale with pain. "Holden, why... Why did you hit me?"


    Holden had the upper hand then, and he was not about to let it go.


    "I''ve been itching to do that, Walter. Forget everything else! Just the fact that Evie''s out there on the highway, her life in the bnce, and you''re here babysitting your assistant-I''m livid!


    "You might not give a damn about Evie, but she''s pregnant with your kid. How can you be so heartless about whether she lives or dies?"


    Holden rattled off his grievances and looked to Yale for confirmation. "Yale, I''m right, aren''t I?"


    Yale paused, then nodded with solemn agreement.


    "That''s fair."


    "I didn''t do it!" Walter''s plea was cut short as Yale, too, swung a punch that zoomed toward Walter''s left


    eye.


    Lucky for Walter, his youthful reflexes kicked in, and the punch only grazed the corner of his eye. It bruised, sure, but it was nothingpared to the shiner he would have sported otherwise. "Let me exin, you guys.


    "I''ve had people look into it, and there''s no record of Evangeline being admitted to the hospital, which means she could still be out there, alive!"


    Holding onto that hope was what kept Walter steady on his feet outside David''s operating room, forcing himself to stayposed until his crew brought in thetest news.


    "Isn''t that a pretty thought?"


    Holden''s mouth twisted into a sneer, his voice rising as heunched another fist at Walter''s face.


    "Do you take us for idiots?"


    Holden advanced, his eyes ring daggers at Walter.


    "Sure, no hospital record for Evie might mean she''s alive. But don''t you forget, it could also mean she was right in the thick of that pile-up, and with what we''ve got, there''s no way to track her down! "Poor niece of mine, to end up with a monster like you. She''s caught up in an ident, and you''re not even on the scene digging for clues, just sitting around waiting for a rescue!"


    Holden''s rage grew with every word, his fist ready to fly again. However, Yale held him back.


    "Holden, we''ve got bigger fish to fry."


    The moment the crash was reported, the Fosters pulled every string to dig up info on the wreck.


    The site was a picture of destion, the kind of scene that would haunt them.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Wreckage and chaos were all that was left where the ident happened. The crash was so bad that they could not even tell where the cars ended and the people began. Some cars had gone up in mes, causing a domino effect that blew up others nearby.


    The victims... There was not much left to even say goodbye to.


    The Foster family, working off bits and pieces of info, recreated the crash scene to figure out where it all started.


    However, as soon as they pinpointed the spot, the search team found something chilling-a half-burned license te from the Foster family''s own car.


    Holden hit the ground hard, the news hitting him harder.


    What did it mean? It meant that Evangeline''s car was right in the middle of it all, where things were the


    worst.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 483

    Chapter 483


    They were not doubting their niece, Evangeline. However, surviving a wreck like that, especially right in the thick of it, seemed impossible.


    Even Yale, a tough-as-nails ex-soldier, did not let himself hope.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    The brothers had two things on their agenda when they showed up to see Walter. They wanted to give him a piece of their mind for Evangeline, and then get his help to figure out what happened to her. Evangeline adored Walter. Knowing he had done something, anything, for her would have given her some


    peace.


    However, the Foster brothers were on fire with anger. In no time, Walter was sporting a colorful bruise collection.


    He did not even try to fight back.


    After the crash, he was so devastated that he thought about giving up everything-thepany, the Gordon legacy-and just dying with Evangeline.


    However, he did not need to burden Evangeline''s uncles with those thoughts.


    However, when he heard what Yale had to say, he forced himself to calm down. "Yale, did you guys figure something out?"


    The Gordons dominated the South, the Fosters the North. Both families were titans, proof enough that the Fosters were just as powerful as the Gordons.


    Walter was a mess after getting the news about Evangeline''s ident, and the people he had sent out for updates were taking forever.


    The Foster brothers were a different story, however. One was always on the move, the other steady as ice. They were likely to snap out of any shock quickly and start piecing together what happened with clear heads.


    This was not the time for Yale to hold back. He cut to the chase.


    "We think Evie''s ident was no ident at all. Someone nned it. And the prime suspect is..." Yale was too furious to go on, so Holden, pale with rage, finished the thought, "It''s your lover, Minnie!"


    The Foster brothers had known about Walter and Minnie''s secret office fling for a while. They had held back because of Evangeline, who was pregnant, keeping an eye on Minnie and waiting for the right moment to make those two cheaters pay for their betrayal. Who would have guessed that Minnie would stir up such a storm, endangering Evangeline''s very life?


    "Minnie? No way!"


    Walter was floored, his denialing as fast as his heartbeat.


    To keep a close eye on the mysterious Minnie, Walter swallowed his pride and kept her close, under his watch every second of the day.


    Except for that one time she slipped away from the cruise ship, Minnie had not escaped his watchful eye.


    Nheless, it would take her three hours just to row to shore, and then she had to race for the secluded Newstead Zone. How could she have found the time to mastermind a car crash of that magnitude?


    What Walter did not realize was that his eagerness made him seem like a shameless man defending his mistress, even though the mistress had sabotaged his wife and caused her to have a car ident. "You''re still defending Minnie at a time like this?!" Holden was gobsmacked.


    He had always pegged Walter as a sharp guy, someone who could run the massive Gordon family business. However, he was a total fool, lost in a woman''s shadow, unable to see right from wrong. Yale, on the other hand, was not about to mince words


    He delivered a swift kick right to Walter''s gut!

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 484

    Chapter 484


    While Walter doubled over in agony, unable to fight back, Yaleid out his thoughts.


    "Evie has a heart of gold, and she doesn''t make enemies. However, ever since you hooked up with the homewrecker, she''s been in someone''s crosshairs, and we still haven''t figured out who''s behind it all.


    "Come on, Walter, the truth is staring us in the face. Are you seriously going to stand there and tell me she''s not involved?"


    Yale''s interrogation came at Walter like a rapid-fire. Holden, listening in, was nearly floored by it.


    He never imagined that the word ''homewrecker-so crass and lowbrow-would ever slip from the lips of Yale, who was the epitome of cool-headed sophistication.


    However, there it was, out in the open, and delivered with unexpected ease!


    Right then, Walter could not even focus on the sharp pain in his gut. "What? Evangeline''s in someone''s


    crosshairs?"


    Walter had always figured that if he kept Evangeline away from that shady Sunny Glow Beauty Salon and kept an extra watchful eye on that troublemaker Minnie, Evangeline would be safe. Had he been wrong all along?


    "Walter, you''re Evie''s husband, and you didn''t even know she was being targeted by a creep of some sort? What do you have to say for yourself?" Holden was so ticked off by Walter''s cluelessness that he could not help but confront him.


    "Do you guys have any leads on who''s after her?" Walter asked, his mind racing through the list of possible suspects who might want to hurt Evangeline.


    Yale stuck to what they knew from the investigation. "We''ve got a suspect, Beck, but it''s a dead end. Even Beck doesn''t know who''s pulling his strings." However, the mention of thatst name, Beck, set off rm bells for Walter. Beck, as in the Bennison family? What were the odds?


    The situation with Evangeline was critical, and Walter did not see any reason to keep secrets. Heid his thoughts out on the table. "You''ve been in the political game overseas for ages. Evere across the Bennison family?"


    Yale caught on instantly. "You mean to say, this Beck guy could be one of the Bennisons?"


    Walter nodded, seeing he had Yale''s full attention.


    "I''ve got people who''ve traced Minnie back to them. If she''s the one who went after Evangeline, then there''s no way her death isn''t tied to the Bennisons!" Walter was dead sure of it. Holden, listening in, itched to give Walter''s unblemished right eye a shiner.


    "You''ve dug up dirt on this family, so why keep hanging around with that mistress?"


    Holden was steamed up, and he turned to his brother with a hot-headed suggestion, "Bro, I''ve had it up to here. No matter what''s up with Evie, I''mying into him today, and I won''t hold back!"


    Evangeline was gone, and nothing would bring her back. They needed to let off steam, and that was the priority.


    As for the investigation, since Walter''s mistress was at the center of the mess, they, the Foster family, would just have to confront the Gordons head-on.


    "Hold up, I thought we were just piecing things together-"


    Walter''s attempt to talk his way out was cut short by Yale''s booming voice.


    "Fine, we''ll join forces."N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    The two guys punched and kicked Walter like there was no tomorrow. Walter was so out of it that he could not even raise his arms to protect himself, much less get a word in edgewise. Evangeline''s uncles and Walter were brawling, oblivious to the fact that a squad of bodyguards was hustling over, wheeling a guy in a chair.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 485

    Chapter 485


    By the time Alex got to the scene, it looked like a tornado had hit. Walter''s blood was everywhere.


    "Hey, hold up!" Alex yelled at the top of his lungs.


    Yale spotted Alex and was the first to back off.


    Holden, still fuming, gave Walter onest stomp before he quit. He faced Alex, all serious business, andid it out straight, "Every wrong has a wrongdoer, every debt its debtor. We Fosters don''t let things slide, but we don''t pin stuff on the innocent either. Gordon family''s number two, you''re off the hook for Evie''s car wreck. You''re free to go."


    He gave Alex a dismissive wave, but Alex was not about to budge. Instead, he wheeled himself right up


    next to Walter.


    "Sorry, but I''ve still got things to say, so I''m sticking around.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "I''ve got a hunch that Evie isn''t dead!"


    That bombshell sent shockwaves through the trio.


    Yale felt internally torn. He would give anything for Evie to be alive, but after such a horrific crash, it seemed impossible...


    Holden, ever the hothead, jumped in before Yale could get a word out, "That''s crazy talk! We''ve done our homework. Evie''s car was smack in the middle of the crash zone. How in the world could she have made it out?"


    Walter, catching wind of that, looked like he could not believe his ears either.


    Alex surveyed the trio before him, instantly recognizing the shock that had paralyzed their thoughts-the shock of losing someone dear, too sudden and too raw.


    However, that was okay. He was there to unravel the mystery for them.


    "In an ident that big, survival seems nearly impossible. However, what if Evangeline never even took that highway?"


    With the three of them watching intently, Alex took a tablet from his bodyguard and gently ced it in Yale''s hands.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, could you set the video to 11:54 a.m.? Watch closely."


    Yale did as asked, with Holden leaning in beside him.


    Walter tried to get a look too, but the tablet screen was too small for three. Yale and Holden had taken up all the room, and with his niece''s fate on the line, Holden was not about to back down. He shot Walter with a re that sent him retreating. The video was from the highway entrance''s camera.


    Yale, ever sopliant, slid the timeline to the moment Alex had pointed out and watched with rapt attention.


    The video was silent.


    Yale and Holden watched, the world around them fading away.


    Then, Holden''s eyes sparked to life, and he jabbed a finger at the screen, his voice a mix of surprise and recognition. "Isn''t that the Foster family car?"


    The Foster family car, caught on the highway entrance camera, meant Evangeline had indeed been on the highway. Holden, without missing a beat, turned to challenge Alex''s earlier suggestion.


    "Alex, we''ve spotted the Foster family car in the footage. How can you im Evie never wasn''t on the highway?"


    Alex was about to respond when Yale, as if struck by a sudden revtion, shot his hand up and scrubbed through the video timeline once more.


    With each y of the footage, Yale''s brow glistened with more sweat.


    On the second scrub, he beckoned Holden over excitedly. "Holden, my eyes are ying tricks on me after watching this so many times. Can you do a quick tally? How many Foster family cars are on the highway?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 486

    Chapter 486


    $25 WAYS


    Holden rushed back and reyed the surveince footage repeatedly, counting under his breath, "Three cars! No matter how many times I count, it''s always three!"


    After he said it out loud, Holden had a sudden hunch that something was not adding up.


    "Hold on. We knew Evie could be in trouble, so we sent a bunch of bodyguards to stick close to her. I''m not sure how many cars they took off in, but I''m positive there were more than three!" That meant Evangeline could be in another car that went in an entirely different direction!


    The Foster brothers locked eyes, a silent understanding passing between them, and hope sparked anew.


    Yale walked up, put the surveince video back, and made sure to give Alex a firm handshake. "Alex, you''ve given us an important clue-thanks a ton!"


    Yale meant every word of his heartfelt thanks.


    In that nail-biting moment, the Foster brothers were on edge, like ants scurrying on a scalding pan. Alex''s insight was like a lifeline thrown in the middle of a blizzard,


    Along with his gratitude, Yale could not help but be impressed by Alex''s keen eye and thorough thinking.


    The Gordon family''s second son was someone he had known about for quite some time.


    Back when Alex had the reins, Gordon Group soared to new heights. In just a couple of years, he expanded their empire by a third, setting the stage for the Gordons to dominate the South and the Fosters to hold sway in the North. Nheless, to the Fosters, Alex''s triumphs were nothing to write home about.


    Yale had pegged Alex as nothing more than apetent businessman. This ordeal with Evangeline, however, turned Yale''s opinion on its head. Alex had picked up on the tiniest of hints, proving he was no ordinary guy.


    Had he stayed in charge, Gordon Group might have been just as strong, if not stronger, than it was already.


    Holden, clueless about what Yale was pondering, stepped forward to show his appreciation.


    "Oh, absolutely. When Yale and I got wind of Evie''s predicament, we were losing our minds. It''s all thanks to your heads-up."


    He pressed his palms together, tracing crosses over his chest, all the while whispering to himself, "Thank the heavens... Thank you, God! My Evie is safe and sound..."


    Meanwhile, Walter watched Alex intently.


    Growing up together, he knew firsthand how sharp his brother''s mind was. However, one thing had him stumped.


    Alex was downright worried about Evangeline. When he found out she was alive, why did he not just ask around for help instead of showing up with a whole squad of bodyguards?


    Talk about timing. Right after the Foster brothers nabbed him, Alex showed up. That was just too much of a coincidence.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Holden''s eyes were likesers, scanning back and forth between Walter and Alex. He gave Yale''s arm a little jab, and the two started whispering.


    "Yale, isn''t it weird that even though Walter and Alex are twins, Alex just seems... nicer to look at?" Holden mused.


    Yale, with a mysterious glint in his eye, did not answer. He merely smiled at Alex knowingly and said, "Now that we know Evangeline''s okay, let''s go."


    Evangeline was their world. Nothing else came close, especially not some guy like Alex. All Yale wanted was to see Evangeline safe and sound. That was it. Knowing they had to move fast, Holden and Yale rushed off to the Foster family''s Security tower to track down Evangeline.


    Just like that, the hospital garden was left with just Walter and Alex, the brothers, and a ring of bodyguards standing guard.

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    Chapter 487


    Walter and Alex locked eyes for a moment. Walter''splexion was ghostly, his deep-set eyes a well of loneliness,


    Alex, parked in his wheelchair, looked calm. A subtle smile yed on his lips, and his eyes crinkled with a touch of pride.


    Standing and seated, their gazes met, and without a word, they understood each other perfectly.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Finally, Alex arched an eyebrow at Walter. "You know, I pulled you out of the Foster family brothers grip, Walter, Aren''t you going to thank me?"


    Walter''s mouth twisted into a wry smirk.


    Years of rivalry had taught him to read between the lines. If he had not grasped Alex''s motives at first, Holden''s pointed question made it crystal clear. He would be a fool not to see the setup then


    It all added up. Alex had foreseen Evangeline''s predicament, knew the Foster brothers woulde for Walter first, and positioned himself strategically. Just as the trio was on the verge of a showdown, Alex swooped in like a hero, sharing the news he had had all along with the Foster brothers.


    Alex''s grand entrance was not about saving Walter-it was all for the Foster brothers.


    "What''s there to thank you for? You think I believe you came today just to save me from danger? Alex, I'' hand it to you-you''ve won this round, and it was a knockout. But this isn''t game over for me. As long as Evangeline''s alive, as long as she''s not yours, I''ve still got a shot!"


    Walter pieced together Alex''s earlier boast, and it all clicked into ce.


    Alex had yed his cards right, not only putting Walter in a tight spot but also charming the Foster family''s two brothers. He wasying the groundwork for a future with Evangeline, and his odds were looking good.


    There were plenty of ways to win over someone like Yale, but Alex''s move was pure genius.


    With a scoff, Alex said, "Is that so? If you''re still clinging to that illusion, then I guess I just haven''t done enough."


    He wheeled himself closer to Walter, his voice a low murmur meant for his brother''s ears alone, "Mark my words: stubbornness won''t get you anywhere. Evie''s going to be my wife, and that''s that!


    Before Walter could fire back, Alex spun his wheelchair around and rolled away, his entourage of bodyguards in tow, leaving with as much fanfare as they had arrived.


    It was a total power move.


    Walter balled his fists tightly, his eyes bloodshot with a mix of anger and resolve.


    He was not about to give up. Not by a long shot.


    Elsewhere, Evangeline, who read the news of the car crash on her phone, felt a wave of sympathy for those involved. However, even stronger was her sense of relief and the thrill of a close call.


    She was perfectly fine, safely seated in the Foster family''s car. She had not even been near Dannington


    Road.


    After saying goodbye to Walter, Evangeline, nked by her team of bodyguards, set off for home. They were on their way to Emerald of the Hignds when something unexpected happened just before they could turn onto Dannington Road. Evangeline''s phone rang with an urgent call from one of her crew.


    Lydia, who had been in hiding at the Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, had finally shown up.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 488

    Chapter 488


    However, Lydia''s appearance was bound to be a game-changer.


    It was not just the elusive Lydia. The people with her were all carrying packages, as if they were all in on a secret n to make a getaway.


    The Foster family caught wind of the odd behavior and wasted no time in alerting Evangeline.


    The beauty salon was in theplete opposite direction from Emerald of the Hignds, but Evangeline knew what she had to do. Lydia was too important; she held the key to proving her mother''s innocence and uncovering the shadowy figures who had taken her. Without hesitation, Evangeline ordered the driver to turn the car around and head for the salon.


    Despite her exhaustion, Evangeline felt the weight of the situation was far greater. She could always catch up on sleep after that was all over.


    It was that quick decision that kept her off the highway of doom, narrowly dodging a bullet.


    Evangeline raced to Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, arriving just as the dust settled from the recentmotion. It was peaceful once again.


    Her bodyguard, who had been waiting to meet her, hurried over with an update.


    "Miss, we''ve just received word that our team has caught up with Lydia''s car. Should we take her into custody right now?"


    She was about to say ''absolutely'' but stopped herself. How on earth had Lydia, an olddy, managed to stay under the radar in Avalon City for so long, especially with the Gordons and Fosters watching? It meant only one thing: Lydia had powerful backing, someone who could stand toe-to-toe with both


    families.


    The Gordons had the South, and the Fosters had the North. For years, the bnce of power had been unshakable. Who was that new yer on the field?


    Lydia''s connection to them was the million-dor question.


    As the puzzle pieces clicked into ce, Evangeline made a snap decision.


    "Let''s not tip her off. Keep a tail on Lydia, and I''ll make the call when I get there."


    "Ms. Evangeline, chasing her down will mean going really fast. Maybe you should..."


    The bodyguard nced at Evangeline''s baby bump, clearly worried, and hesitated before offering his advice. "Maybe you should stay here and wait for updates. I''ll lead the team myself-"


    "No way!" blurted Evangeline without hesitation.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    After all, Lydia was the viin who had taken her mother''s life. That alone was reason enough for Evangeline to personally ensure Lydia was caught and brought to justice.


    Then there was the matter of her pregnancy...


    With a hand on her growing belly, Evangeline''s face showed a flicker of concern, but her voice was resolute as she dered, "I have to be there this time!


    For safety''s sake, Evangeline, assisted by her bodyguard, settled into the car''s safety seat. She meticulously checked the seatbelt and all the safety features before they embarked on their mission.


    In Evangeline''s mind, chasing down Lydia did not conflict with keeping her unborn child safe. She was determined to do both.


    The highway was a blur as a convoy of identical ck cars tore down the road, turning heads with their sleek presence. Evangeline, the cherished young heiress of the Foster family, rode in the second car.


    Just then, her bodyguard''s phone rang with news from an informant.


    "Boss, Lydia''s car has ducked onto the Newstead Zone highway, and she''s picking up speed. I think she''s onto us!"


    The urgency in the informant''s voice was palpable. The bodyguard nced at Evangeline.


    "Ms. Evangeline, given the situation..."


    "Just go for the arrest!"


    Evangeline had hoped to nab Lydia and, with her, unearth clues about the mastermind behind it all. However, she knew that if her thirst for those clues allowed Lydia to slip away, she would never forgive herself. Not ever.


    The mastermind had managed to keep Lydia hidden in Avalon City for so long without a whisper of her whereabouts, proving they were no ordinary yers. If Lydia vanished again, Evangeline was not sure she would be able to track her down once more. ""Got it!"


    The informant''s voice came through the phone, clear and unwavering. The call ended, and Evangeline issued hermands.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 489

    Chapter 489


    "Step on it. We''ve got to make it to the bust right away


    Evangeline was itching to see Lydia get nabbed with her own eyes.


    "However..." The bodyguard shot a worried look at Evangeline''s baby bump, but after a moment''s hesitation, he floored the gas pedal.


    Sunny Glow Beauty Salon was a good distance from Newstead Zone. The Foster family''s car zipped down the road, fihally catching up to their target just before hitting Newstead Zone.


    That was when the trouble started.


    Newstead Zone was all hills and curves, and the roads got trickier the deeper they went. The Foster''s guards were new to those parts and did not know they of thend, so Lydia''s car quickly left them in the dust.


    Evangeline''s heart raced as the white car slipped out of sight.


    However, what she did not realize was that her bodyguard was even more on edge.


    He was responsible for the safety of the Foster family''s treasured heir growing inside Evangeline. If anything happened on his watch, he knew he could never make it right.


    After a whole lot of convincing, Evangeline finally let the car behind them gun it to catch up with Lydia''s


    ride.


    By the time Evangeline rolled up, Lydia''s car was parked at the entrance of a quaint mountain vige. The Foster family had the east side of the vige on lockdown, surrounding a tiny, out-of-the-way house like it was a high-securitypound. Evangeline got out of the car with poise, and her bodyguard hustled over, all bows and scrapes, saying, Ms. Evangeline, we''ve got Lydia cornered inside. Should we haul her off to the Security tower now?"


    Evangeline put up a hand for silence, a sly grin ying on her lips. "Hold up, I want to meet this one face-to


    -face."


    Lydia was no fool. The trick she pulled that got Evangeline''s mother killed was slick-no loose ends. If Evangeline had not been on her tail like white on rice... Lydia would still be out there. Evangeline. remembered her mom, tough as nails, and knew she would not have left any stone unturned.


    The ride over was rough, and Evangeline felt a twinge of pain in her belly.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    However, she pushed through, cradling her stomach, and made her way into the rundown room.


    Before she could get a word out, Lydia''s voice, all suspicion and defense, filled the space. "Who are you? What''s your angle? Why are you messing with me?"


    Evangeline peered inside. The ce was a hot mess-thatch everywhere, mud and dust for days.


    Light from outside streamed through the busted window, hitting the curtains and throwing a spotlight on the bulky shadow behind them.


    Evangeline knew in a heartbeat that Lydia, the one she had been tirelessly hunting for, was hiding right


    behind that curtain.


    However, this was Lydia she was dealing with, so there was no point in ying coy.


    "Come out,e out, wherever you are," she called out


    With a sigh and an eye roll, Evangeline wondered if Lydia realized that the light from outside was a dead giveaway of her hiding spot.


    "Ah!" Lydia shrieked, still desperately clinging to the curtain like a shield. "Who are you? Your voice... it''s so familiar."


    Evangeline could not help but feel a bit amused. She strode forward and whipped the curtain aside. Recognizing my voice won''t help you much. Why not take a look and see for yourself?"


    11


    Her words were light, but the moment the curtain flew open, Lydia''s face went as white as a sheet.

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    Chapter 490


    Lydia''s eyes were huge as she shakily pointed at Evangeline, looking as if she had just seen a ghost.


    "You... What are you doing here, Evangeline?"


    Lydia was scared stiff. After all the borate schemes she had cooked up, including that deadly pile-up on Dannington Road, she could not believe the news of the crash had been wrong. Evangeline was instead very much alive and safe, baby bump and all.


    Evangeline figured Lydia was just shocked at being caught and did not make a big deal out of it. She leaned in close, her voice steady as she spoke, "What''s the big shock? I''ve been counting the days. Ever since you vanished from the hospital, I made a vow to bring you back myself!" However, Lydia, out of nowhere, clutched her head with both hands and screamed at the top of her lungs.


    "Ahh!"


    Her legs gave out as if all the strength had been sapped from them, and she crumpled to the ground, still holding her head, mumbling repeatedly, "No! It can''t be! It just can''t be Evangeline!"All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    It was obvious Lydia was not in her right mind.


    The bodyguards tailing Evangeline did not waste a second. Worried Lydia might hurt Evangeline, they quickly secured Lydia and bundled her into the car.


    On the drive back to the Foster family''s security tower, Evangeline''s hands were balled into fists, her inner turmoil too intense for words. Lydia, the one responsible for her mother''s death, had reappeared after a strange absence, right in from


    of her.


    Atst, she could bring the killer to justice and honor her mother''s memory! Her uncles would be over the moon when they heard the news! Evangeline raced back with Lydia in tow, arriving just as Yale and Holden rushed back home.


    Clueless about the day''s events, Evangeline found herself wrapped in Yale''s arms, then engulfed in a group hug by her three uncles.


    Seeing the tears in her uncles'' eyes, Evangeline could not hold back her questions any longer.


    "Uncle Yale, Uncle Holden, what''s up with you guys?"


    Holden''s tears were the first to spill, his fists lightly thumping Evangeline''s arm in a mock scolding. He was careful not to actually hurt her, of course. It was all just for effect. "Evie, you little rascal! It''s one thing to take off on an adventure, but couldn''t you at least have dropped a message to me and Uncle Yale to let us know you were okay?"


    Evangeline was baffled.


    Was it really such a big deal... that she had just hopped off Walter''s yacht and dashed over to Newstead Zone to nab Lydia? Did she really need to check in for something so minor?


    However, seeing the worried looks on her uncles'' faces, she smartly swallowed any retort.


    They were just concerned about her, after all, and she did not want to hurt their feelings.


    "Come on, I''m back now, safe and sound, right? Nothing to worry about," she reassured them gently. Holden wiped away a tear dramatically, his voice filled with a mix of usation and relief, "A massive pile -up on the freeway, Evangeline. If you don''t think that''s a big deal, then what is? You nearly gave me and Uncle Yale heart attacks, you know?"


    "What... a car crash?"


    Evangeline had been so caught up in the thrill of chasing down Lydia that she had been oblivious to everything else.


    Holden and Yale shared a knowing look.


    "So, you really had no clue?"


    With a sigh that carried a whole saga of worry, Holden pulled out his phone and yed a video.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 491

    Chapter 491


    "Breaking news alert. A massive pile-up on Dannington Road in downtown Avalon City has left hundreds injured at 12:38 p.m. today. Reports say up to two hundred seventy vehicles were wrecked, and over a thousand people were involved..." Evangeline zeroed in on the timestamp.


    That was right when she was supposed to hit the freeway.


    No wonder her uncles were freaking out. Holden was a mess; tears and snot were everywhere. Even Yale, a no-nonsense man, had eyes red and swollen.


    "You guys thought I was in that mess on the highway?"


    Everything clicked into ce. Evangeline gently grabbed her uncles'' hands as she remorsefully apologized,


    "I''m so sorry, I didn''t mean to scare you. It was all happening so fast that I didn''t want to hold up anything important, so I didn''t get the chance to tell you," she exined.


    Holden, finally at ease, gave an exaggerated eye roll.


    "You have no idea. When we caught that news, our hearts dropped to the floor. If Alex hadn''t shown us the security cam footage, we might''ve gone and given Walter a beating he wouldn''t forget!" Evangeline''s face said it all-she was beyond words. "Why would you go after Walter if I was in a crash?"


    She and Walter were practically exes. It made zero sense for her uncles to go after him.


    However, she knew her uncles were men of their word. The thought of Walter nearly getting thrashed... He must have been hurt badly, was he not? Also, what was that about Alex being involved? Holden recalled how badly Walter had been beaten, but he did not feel the slightest twinge of guilt." Who''s fault is it that the kid kept picking on you? We''ve had enough of watching that happen..." "So you decided to take it out on Walter?" Evangeline felt at a loss, unsure of what to say.


    The image of Walter getting pummeled stirred a wave of sympathy in her. Well, maybe after she wrapped up Lydia''s issue, she should drop by the Gordons'' ce to check on Walter.


    "But why did you guys go after Walter? What''s Alex got to do with it?"


    In Evangeline''s mind, Walter and Alex might share the same face, but their personalities and ways of doing things could not be more different. It did not make sense for those two mismatched brothers to be in the same ce without a good reason. Little did she know, her question was the key to unlocking Holden''s chatterbox.


    He eagerly took hold of Evangeline''s arm. "Let me tell you, it''s quite the tale, and I need to take my time. But first things first, I''ve got to say, Alex is one heck of a stand-up guy!"


    After facing off with Alex, Holden''s view of the guy he had only heard about changed entirely. His head was brimming withpliments, like a river that just would not quit.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    He had been dying to tell Yale all about it, but Yale could not care less about that stuff. He finally had the


    425 BONUS


    chance, and there was no way he was going to let it slip by.


    Evangeline''s eyes darted to Yale, silently begging for an escape as Holden wound up for one of his infamous lectures.


    Yale caught her look instantly. He knew Holden was about to burst with unsolicited advice, so he shed Evangeline a quick ''I''ll-call-you'' hand signal.


    "I''m going to call Grandpa, let him know we''re all good, I''ll catch up with you in a bit."


    Evangeline was on her own with Holden until Yale''s fake call was over,


    Before she could even muster a groan, Holden''s voice was already in her ear,

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 492

    Chapter 492


    "Listen, Evle, Alex is a very thoughtful guy. If you ended up with him, I guarantee you''d be happy." Holden''s words started to twist, sounding more and more like he trying to match her with Alex. Evangeline was mid-sip when Holden''s bombshell nearly made her do a spit-take.


    "Uncle, do you hear yourself? I just divorced Walter, and now you''re pushing me toward his brother? What am I to you? Or do you think a Foster girl is doomed to spinsterhood without a Gordon man?" She had married Walter for love. However, to jump from Walter to Alex right after a divorce was a whole new level of crazy.


    Holden, with all his years, harboring such wild ideas? Evangeline knew she had to squash that thought


    before it took root.


    Holden caught on to the unease in Evangeline''s thoughts and let out a scoff. "Of course, our Foster girl wouldn''t just get stuck on the Gordons, would she?"


    He had always thought his niece was head over heels for Walter''s good looks. She had been dreaming of marrying the guy since the day sheid eyes on him, even though they were strangers before that.


    Then Alex showed up, a carbon copy of Walter, but with a heart of gold and a soft touch. What a perfect stand-in.


    Yale had already checked in with Cole, letting him know all was well, and then he hightailed it back to help Evangeline.


    As soon as he switched to business mode, Yale''s expression turned dead serious.


    "Evie, we''ve figured out that three of the Foster cars took off up Dannington Road, but you weren''t in any of them. Did you guys split up because something went down?"


    Yale was well aware that the Foster family''s bodyguards were die-hard loyal. They would not just take off without Evangeline''s say-so.


    He was thus confused as to why Evangeline would have sent them away.


    That was when Evangeline realized she had not filled Yale in on her detour to chase down Lydia. Pushing down the rush of adrenaline, she finally exined, "Here''s the deal, I was halfway back to the vi when I got this tip about Lydia, and I just had to go after her. "However, our team noticed other cars tailing the Foster family''s convoy. Unsure if they were friends or enemies, we couldn''t just make a move without thinking. Luckily, you had sent plenty of cars to guard me, so we decided to split up. This move would throw off anyone following us and wouldn''t mess with my n to nab Lydia.


    "I never thought things would go down like this..."N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Sending those three cars away was supposed to be a quick fix, but who knew it would be thest time they would see them?


    The thought of people dying for her, of their families with kids and grandparents waiting at home, filled Evangeline''s heart with sorrow. After all, those people in the three cars had lost their lives because of her.


    "Uncle, how are the families being looked after? I want to go see them myself, to show them I care."


    Life was irreceable, and all Evangeline could think to do was to go to their homes and personally hand over the money to help them out.


    Yale pondered for a moment and then shook his head. "The crash was so bad, the hospital''s swamped. It''ll probably be a while before we get the full story.


    "However, there''s something else on my mind. Our Foster family cars are some of the safest out there, with top-notch crash and fire protection. And yet, they were totaled!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 493

    Chapter 493


    Holden joined the conversation as he said, "That''s why think this crash was no ident."


    He looked straight at Evangeline. "Evie, it''s too much of a coincidence. It feels like this was meant for you!


    The twisted metal from the Foster family''s cary scattered at the epicenter of a catastrophic pile-up.


    Evangeline''s mind raced away from the present.


    It was a horrific crash, iming over a thousand lives. She could not fathom what she had done to cross someone so powerful. They had orchestrated that disaster just to take her out, under the guise of an ident. "I have a hunch someone knows something," she mused.


    In the secretive meeting room of Security tower.


    Evangeline pped her hands, drawing skeptical looks from Yale and Holden.


    The bodyguards hauled in a figure shrouded in a ck sack, struggling fiercely despite the restraint. The captive was strong, and it took four guards to subdue and bring her in.


    One guard, fed up with the struggle, barked a warning.


    "Keep it up, and you''re noting out of there!"


    The figure in the sack froze. With the guards'' help, she stood still on the floor.


    As the sack was removed, Lydia''s face came into view. She had tried to slip away but ended up right in Evangeline''s grasp.


    At that moment, Lydia seemed to have regained herposure.


    Her piercing eyes swept over the strangers in the room, then fixed on Evangeline-a face she would know anywhere.


    "You!" Lydia''s finger trembled as she pointed at Evangeline, her face ashen as if she had seen a ghost. Are you... Are you even real?"


    Evangeline was puzzled. She took a couple of steps closer to Lydia, wanting to make sure Lydia could see her clearly. "Look at me! Do I look like a person or a ghost to you?" However, she did not expect what happened next...


    After a piercing scream, Lydia copsed to the ground as if all her energy had been sucked out of her. Yet, she still managed to throw out a warning to Evangeline. "Stay back! I''m warning you, I''m not scared of you..."


    12


    Deep in the Newstead Zone, hidden by a thick forest, Minnie walked into a in little bungalow, nked


    by her bodyguards.


    She had never stayed in such a simple ce before. The moment she opened the door, a cloud of dust made her cough, and she instantly took a dislike to the ce. As her bodyguards got busy tidying up, she pulled out her phone to catch up on the day''s news.


    The headline about a horrific pile-up on Dannington Road grabbed her attention. After scanning the article, a triumphant smirk spread across Minnie''s face


    Her mother was a genius!All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Minnie had thought her mom would just send some goons to nab Evangeline and give her a hard time.


    However, no, her mom had orchestrated a full-blown car crash.


    Evangeline''s death would be written off as an ident, and nobody would ever suspect them.


    Minnie was in awe of her mom''s brutal, yet stealthy tactics.


    Then, all she had to do was sit back and wait.


    Wait for the news of Evangeline''s demise to buzz through the streets, and then she could go to Walter and y the poor, heartbroken girl.


    Minnie''s spirits soared at the thought of snagging Mrs. Gordon''s coveted spot for herself. Even the grimy walls of the house she was in started to look charming in her eyes. However, then, her phone buzzed with a call that snapped her back to reality.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 494

    Chapter 494


    One nce at the caller ID and Minnie knew it was Celina.


    She was due for her pampering session at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon any minute then. Celina''s call must be a reminder, she figured.


    Without a second thought, Minnie answered, "Celina, I told you to bring my mom over here, didn''t I? Look at the time! Why isn''t she here yet?"


    The thought of seeing her mother again brought a smile to Minnie''s face.


    However, her words sent a shiver down Celina''s spine


    ""Ms. Kast, there''s a reason I''m calling..."


    Celina inhaled deeply, trying to steady her spinning head before continuing with as muchposure as she could muster, "While we were moving Mrs. Lydia, we picked up a tail. To keep your location under wraps, we diverted to a different spot. However, those guys actually followed us and, without so much as a by-your-leave, they... they took Mrs. Lydia!"


    "What are you talking about?"


    Minnie''s heart stopped. She was in disbelief.


    Her mother had just pulled through for her in a big way, yet she had been taken?


    "Celina, what''s the deal with your crew? My mom wasn''t safe with you guys, and when I asked for her to be moved somewhere else, she ended up getting snatched? Seriously?


    "She barely steps out of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, and those goons swoop in to grab her?! Celina, are you telling me you''ve got a rat in your ranks?"


    Minnie''s voice thundered with fury, sending chills down the spine.


    Celina, caught in the wrong, dabbed at the sweat on her brow and began to exin, "Ms. Kast, you''re aware of how delicate Mrs. Lydia''s situation is. To keep things on the down-low, you wanted us to roll with a smaller squad. However, those guys came in force,ser- focused on nabbing Mrs. Lydia. We were outmanned, trying to haul Mrs. Lydia and all her stuff. We didn''t stand a chance!


    "As for the loyalty of my team, I''ll sort that out and get back to you, promise."


    Celina''s tone was all apologies, but her words were all about dodging the bullet. She did not want to be tagged with the mess of losing Lydia.


    Truth be told, she did not have to y nice with Minnie. However, Minnie had some heavy hitters in her corner, and Celina, just a beauty salon boss, could not dare to cross her.


    Celina''s words snapped Minnie back to reality. That was not the time to y the me game. They needed to find Lydia, and fast.


    "Got any idea who took her? Any leads we can follow to get her back?"


    "Nothing. Not a single lead."N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Minnie''s heart sank with the all-too-brief reply.


    Celina found herself the target of suspicion, but she stood her ground fearlessly. "So, what''s our next move, Ms. Kast?"


    Next move? Those words were like a nightmare to Minnie.


    Her whole life, whenever trouble struck, her thoughts would just clump together, sticky and useless. However, like a lightbulb flicking on, she got an idea. She told Celina to hang tight for her message and ended the call. She might be clueless, but someone else would have the answers...


    Still, recalling her recent actions, Minnie pulled a wry face, mustered a grin, and dialed the number.


    The voice that came through was rough and distorted, the anger barely contained even through the voice changer. The fury was palpable.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 495

    Chapter 495


    "You''ve got the nerve to call me, Minnie?"


    Minnie had braced herself for that. She pulled the phone away until the storm passed, then cautiously returned it to her ear. "Hey, why all the fire on such a chilly day? Take a chill pill, or you''ll end up hurting yourself," she joked, her tone light, her apology absent, The person on the other end huffed, "Cut to the chase, Minnie. Did you have a hand in that pile-up?"


    ""Nope, not me."


    Minnie blurted out in a rush, "Come on, I knew your sweetheart was in that car. Even if I had the urge to stir up trouble, I''d hold back, wouldn''t I? And just so you know, I had absolutely nothing to do with that crash!"


    She sounded like she was standing on solid ground.


    Truth be told, she was innocent. The ident was her mom Lydia''s handiwork, not hers. Technically, she was not lying.


    However, as she thought about it, realizing that her friend''s sweetheart was out of the picture, she felt a pang of guilt and figured some words offort were in order.


    "Look... I get that you cared about her, but she''s gone and there''s no bringing her back. Try not to take it too hard, okay?"


    Minnie had no idea that her attempt at constion was about to backfire spectacrly.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    "What are you babbling about?" The voice on the phone bristled with annoyance. "You im you''re not involved, but if that''s true, howe you know she''s dead?" The caller''sugh was knowing, quickly shifting to a tone of triumph. "Here''s the real deal-she''s perfectly fine, not a scratch on her. However, you... Well..."


    Not a scratch on her?


    Minnie felt like she had turned to stone.


    The pile-up on Dannington Road had a death toll in the thousands!


    Evangeline survived that?


    The caller did not leave her in suspense for long. "Since she''s unharmed, I''ll let this slide just this once. However, let me warn you, don''t you darey a finger on her. Cross this line again, Minnie, and you''ll regret


    it."


    Minnie scoffed.


    So she messed with his precious darling. Big deal.


    She would not even consider heeding his advice! Any person or thing that threatened her chance to be with Walter was on her hit list.


    Somehow, Evangeline had dodged a bullet this time, but next time, Minnie would not let that snake get away with it.


    Minnie, haunted by the image of her mother being taken by strangers, knew she had to focus on the matter at hand and swiftly steered the conversation elsewhere.


    "Let''s save that for when you actually have a shot at another chance. Listen up, I''ve got urgent news: My mom Lydia has been kidnapped, and we''re clueless about who''s behind it. What''s with your crew? They''re and she''s as harmless as theye!"


    so ipetent they couldn''t even keep tabs on my mom


    Minnie did not mince words as sheid out her fears, "Do you have any idea what''ll happen if the Foster family is involved? They won''t spare my mom! And if they trace her back to me... the fallout would be catastrophic!" Just thinking about her real identitying to light in front of Walter sent a whirlwind of emotions through Minnie.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 496

    Chapter 496


    Winning Walter''s heart while posing as Minnie had been no small feat, and then she faced the daunting task of reverting to her old self, to Julia...


    What would the Gordons, the Fosters, and especially that snake Evangeline think of her? She could not bear to follow that train of thought!


    The line went quiet, only to be broken by an impatient voice on the other end. "Did you forget? Minnie and Lydia are two strangers with no connection. Don''t freak out over every little thing. You''ve been burned before and still haven''t learned your lesson. Not even a miracle could save you now!


    "Look, I''m swamped and don''t have time for small talk Just think it over, okay?"


    Minnie ended the call and gazed at the number on her phone screen, her eyes sparkling with resolve.


    True, her identity was set up to be airtight. Minnie was not Julia, and what did she have to do with Lydia anyway?


    With that thought, Minnie let out a sigh of relief.


    All she could do was hope that Lydia would not get snatched by the Fosters. Because if that happened, Lydia would be in for a world of pain all over again.


    What Minnie did not realize was that her prayers were toote. She prayed toote for any divine backstage help.


    At the Foster family''s Security tower.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Yale, a member of the Foster family, was a former member of the special forces and a professional at getting the truth out of people.


    Evangeline''s mom, Yessica, was his sister, and Lydia was the prime suspect in her death. Yale was tasked with interrogating Lydia, and he was all in.


    In the cramped interrogation room, Yale sat across from Lydia, a single table between them, a harsh light bulb casting a stark glow on Lydia''s face. "Ready to fess up, Lydia? How exactly did my sister Yessica die?"


    Lydia''s eyes were red and veiny after a grueling six-hour interrogation. However, she was as stubborn as


    ever.


    She looked straight at Yale, who stood like a statue, and taunted him with a sneer. "It''sughable, really. You want to know how your sister Yessica died? Go bug the cops or the doctors. Why drag me into it?" "You''re still ying tough?" Yale was taken aback by Lydia''s resilience.


    Back in his military days, he would have dealt with such insolence swiftly, but there, in the Foster family''s domain, his hands were tied-no rough stuff allowed.


    Lydia, smirking as if she read his mind, spat on the ground with disdain. "Yale, you''re crossing a line with this vignte act, you know that? It''s against thew! I''m warning you, let me go now. Who knows, I might


    just spare you for Evie Evangeline''s sake!"


    She would not be talking big if she had not been caught by the Fosters. In her heart, she wished Evangeline would join Yessica six feet under!


    Bringing up Evangeline was just a desperate attempt to w back some dignity.


    Yale dodged Lydia''s sudden lunge with ease, then calmly stepped back in front of her, arms crossed. Scared? Me?"


    He let out a cold chuckle. "You''ve only seen the warm-up. The real deal hasn''t even started. Better talk now, because once the main act begins, no amount of pleading will make me stop."


    Lydia''s face went pale, but she was too stubborn to plead for mercy. "You''re not scared to bend the rules, so why should I, the one who''s been wronged, be afraid?" she challenged.


    She sneered, "Thew will judge whether I''ve done wrong, not you."


    "If you won''t confess..." Yale''s eyes twinkled with mischief. "Then we''ll just have to see who canst longer in this standoff."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 497

    Chapter 497


    Unbeknownst to them, Evangeline and Holden were watching the whole exchange from behind a one-way


    mirror.


    Once Yale stood up and exited, Evangeline and Holden left the observation room as well.


    In the conference room, Yale was all business, Holden''s brows were knitted in frustration, and Evangeline''s face was nk, though she seemed to be wrestling with a tough problemn. Lydia seemed to unravel at the sight of her, leading Evangeline to believe that Lydia would crack easily under questioning.


    However, Lydia was sharper than they expected.


    She was banking on the fact that Yale, a government official, would not dare break thew or resort to underhanded tactics, and she would not confess a thing. "Argh!" Holden could not contain his anger and punched the table with a thud,


    Yale did notsh out, but he was visibly trembling with rage.


    "Uncle Yale, don''t you think Lydia''s just being cocky because she thinks we''re too cautious?" she asked. Isn''t there another way to get her to tell the truth?"


    Evangeline, for her part, was firmly against any form of harsh interrogation.


    "Like, tricking Lydia into letting her guard down and identally telling the truth?"


    The only way to get Lydia to slip up was to make Evangeline look like she was having a really tough time, and it had to seem like things were getting worse by the minute. After all, that would be when Lydia would start gloating!


    "No way, Evie. Sure, getting the truth out of Lydia is super important, but we can''t let you get hurt! Especially not with you being... well, you know."


    Yale nced down at Evangeline''s growing baby bump.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "With everything that''s going on, keeping you safe is our top priority."


    Evangeline pushed down the wave of sadness in her eyes.


    Just a few words were enough for her to realize that Yale was on the same page as her, but they were not on the same page about what to do about it.


    If it meant finding out who really killed her mother and making sure they got what wasing to them, Evangeline was ready to face whatever came her way.


    "Uncle Yale, it doesn''t bother me." She gently touched her stomach. "If it helps us figure out what happened to Mom, I bet the baby wouldn''t mind a little trouble either..."


    "Evie, how can you even think like that?" Holden, who always put Evangeline''s needs first and could never bear to scold her, was then red with frustration. "Did you ever think that you might be fine, but what if something happened to your baby? You know that would break Grandpa''s heart, right?"


    Evangeline''s mouth snapped shut as if she had been ripped by adacty


    He was right, Cole was looking forward to meeting his great-grandson. If anybing were PO


    "What are we going to do? We''ve got to figure something out. We cant just st word dongu letting Lydia mooch off us, can we?


    "And there''s got to be more than one way to catch Lydia off guard. What if she ran into a family in a super dangerous situation?"


    Evangeline''s suggestion hit Yale like a tidal wave, sending his thoughts into a wild spin


    "A dangerous situation was no sweat for us, but finding this family member... where do we eves dad

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 498

    Chapter 498


    Thanks to Yessica, Yale knew Lydia''s history like the back of his hand.


    "Lydia was raised in an orphanage, and because she was always sopetitive, she didn''t exactly fit in. She had just left the orphanage and started working when she bumped into your dad, Andrew. Back then, Andrew was on the rise in Avalon City, thanks to your mom''s savvy in business, and Lydia set her sights on him..."


    Yale did not need to spell out the rest; everyone there got the picture.


    "So, Lydia doesn''t really have family here. Your dad, Andrew, has been under my thumb for a while, and the only daughter, Julia, she''s vanished into thin air..."


    "Wait a minute!" Evangeline cut in, stopping Yale mid-sentence. "Uncle Yale, Julia didn''t vanish. And if I''m not wrong, she''s already back in town."


    A sh of Minnie''s face crossed Evangeline''s mind.


    The woman bore a striking resemnce to Julia, and her obvious affection for Walter made it hard for Evangeline to shake off her suspicions.


    Yale and Holden perked up at her words.


    "You guys know Julia''s been sweet on Walter for ages, right? And Minnie, ever since she popped into our lives, has been glued to Walter''s side. You might not have seen much of her, but I''ve seen plenty. She''s got a bunch of quirks that are dead ringers for Julia''s "However, they only sort of look alike, and Julia''s been gone for such a short time. Even with the fanciest surgery technology, there''s no way she could heal up and look like this so fast..."


    Yale, with his special ops training, hit the nail on the head.


    That was the exact reason Evangeline had not been able to conclude that Minnie was Julia.


    "I''ve been wrestling with that too. If Julia went under the knife to turn into Minnie, the timing''s all off for a recovery. However, maybe she found another way to change her looks? "Still, with things being so critical, maybe it''s worth rolling the dice?"


    Took a chance on family ties, on the hunch that Minnie was Lydia''s daughter, Julia.


    "We''ve got nothing to lose by trying now."


    Yale nodded earnestly. "If all else fails, we just snag Lydia back. That''s way better than keeping her here and not being able to squat."


    With that, the trio was in sync.


    Evangeline quickly hit a snag.


    "Uncle Yale, how can we make Lydia sense the danger?"


    The security tower of the Foster family''s fortress was no secret to anyone.


    "And it''s gotta be so risky that Lydia would bolt to find her kin..."


    Yale''s eyebrow quirked up. "I''ve got this. Just sit tight for my update."All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Yale hit the service bell, and a bodyguard in ck approached.


    Yale murmured some hush-hush stuff to the guard, who nodded like he got the whole picture, and then he was off.


    In the questioning room, Lydia was totally lost watching all that go down. Nothing was happening.


    With Lydia''s eyes wide with surprise, Yale just... took off without doing a thing?


    The bodyguards, business as usual, took Lydia to her own room and then vanished into thin air.


    Lydia stared at herself, unscathed, and could not believe it. After Yale''s big scare tactic, he... did nothing?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 499

    Chapter 499


    Right then, the corridor buzzed with the bodyguards'' hushed chatter.


    "Sam, did you catch the news? The boss brought in some new heavy-hitter. Word is, he''s a beast. Nobodysted more than three minutes with him before spilling their guts."


    "Seriously? This thing that intense? Guess it''s because you''ve been around, I guess that''s what happens when you''re always by the boss''s side-getting in on all the cool stuff!" The man''s voice was tinged with jealousy as he spoke with fiery excitement, but Lydia felt a chill run down her spine.


    What could be so intense that it would knock someone out in under three minutes?


    She suddenly remembered the tough character Yale had mentioned to her... It could not possibly be that, could it?


    An electric chair? That was something straight out of a history book!


    Her question was swiftly answered.


    "Man, I feel some. Our boss is the real visionary here. He actually got someone to bring in an electric chair ahead of time. You know, like the ones in television shows that the bad guys use to grill prisoners? Our crew''s seen the real McCoy now!


    "I''ve heard that once someone''s strapped into that chair, they wet themselves in under three seconds, get all spaced out in ten, and after a full st, they''re practically half-dead, ready to do whatever you say."


    "That terrifying?"


    "More terrifying than you can imagine! You know we''ve got that stubborn woman who won''t talk? I heard that tonight, they''re going to let her feel the full force of the electric chair." ''That woman''?


    Lydia zeroed in on that phrase, her forehead then slick with a cold sweat.


    Could it be such a wild coincidence that the stubborn one was her?


    However, was not this straight-up abuse of power? Yale was a high-ranking official in Avalon City, breaking thew like that. Was he not scared of losing his position?


    However, her worries were quickly addressed by the bodyguards'' chatter.


    "With a chair this lethal, isn''t the boss worried about something going wrong? What if it backfires on him,


    what then?"


    "Seriously? Rich people value their lives way more than us. Ever wonder why they''re all about the electric chair? It''s because the burns look the same no matter what. If something goes sideways, what''s the big deal? Thedy didn''t have a scratch on her, and if there''s a mishap, the cops show up, we just say she was visiting, got nosy with the wires, and zapped herself. How could anyone pin that on the boss?"


    The guards were getting a kick out of that, but Lydia, secretly listening in, felt a chill creep over her, her body trembling.


    That was straight-up murder. If that electric chair took her out there, her daughter Minnie would not stand


    a chance at getting justice!


    It was like they knew Lydia was listening, and they were rubbing it in.


    "And let me tell you, the boss has said way scarier stuff than this. I can''t talk like he can. Guess why they''re bringing out the big guns for her?"


    "Are you kidding me? It''s ''cause she killed our princess!"


    "Mr. Yale Foster, man, he''d do anything for his sis. He even brought in this dangerous thing just for her..." Lydia''s legs gave out, and she hit the floor hard, her face the picture of someone who had lost everything. If Lydia had any hope left before, it was gone then.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

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    Chapter 500


    It was over. That even scarier electric chair Yale mentioned was about to be her one-way ticket.


    The chair sounded like bad news, and her tiny frame would not stand a chance. No. She could not just sit around waiting for the end. She had to get out of there! Lydia pressed herself against the door, desperate for a n, feeling utterly hollow. The door to her room, which was always locked up tight, was surprisingly left ajar.


    Lydia crept out of her room, her eyes darting around to catch any sign of movement. However, the hallway was eerily empty.


    Only after she vanished down the stairwell did a shadowy figure at the end of the corridor peek out.


    He tapped his Bluetooth earpiece and said with utmost respect, "Boss, Lydia is on the move."


    Yale''s face lit up when he got the update from his guy on the ground. He barked out an order. "Keep on her tail, and keep me in the loop!"


    10 minutester, the Foster family''s security rms were screaming. Every bodyguard in the ce sprang into action,bing the city for a woman named Lydia.


    That was all part of Yale''s game n. He had spooked Lydia on purpose and had his crew let her slip


    away.


    If Evangeline was right, Lydia would make a beeline for Minnie the first chance she got.


    The city-wide manhunt that kicked off 10 minutester was just for show-a big, borate act. The more real it looked on Yale''s end, the faster Lydia would scramble to meet up with Minnie.


    The so-called manhunt was nothing more than a charade, with the bodyguards putting on a show of chaos, running all over Avalon City. It was all just smoke and mirrors.


    Yale was inmand back at the security tower, just waiting to see if Minnie, the big fish, would swallow


    the bait.


    Evangeline was right.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Lydia stepped out of the Foster family''s security tower and did not waste a second before gging down a taxi, asking to be taken to the heart of Avalon City''s bustling downtown. However, she was not just sitting back and enjoying the ride. Lydia was already plotting her next move.


    Right then, she was broke. Evangeline had not left her with so much as a cell phone when she was taken.


    So, to call her daughter Minnie, she had no choice but to borrow a phone from someone else.


    She had dashed into the taxi in a panic, worried the Foster family might spot her if she lingered. Once she told the driver where to go, the car pulled away, and Lydiaunched into phase two of her escape n. "Excuse me... Sir, could I use your phone for a moment? I rushed out without mine. I just need to call my daughter, and she''ll cover the fare, okay?"


    The driver eyed her warily in the rearview mirror before handing over his phone. "Make it quick."


    Lydia, seated in the back, did not hesitate. She snatched the phone from the front seat and dialed Minnie''s number as fast as her fingers would allow. Minnie''s voice came through almost instantly, a lifeline in the chaos.


    Lydia''s heart clenched at the sound, and she nearly burst into tears. "Julia, it''s Morn. The Foster family''s got me, and it''s awful. They''re talking about strapping me to an electric chair for interrogation. You have toe save me!"


    Tears threatened to spill from Lydia''s eyes as she listened to her daughter.


    "Mom, hold back the tears, okay? You''ve got me now, right? No more crying." Minnie heard the whimpering on the other end of the line, and a thought struck her. "Mom, weren''t you taken by the Fosters? How are you able to call me?"


    A chilling worry crept in-had the Fosters somehow turned her mother against her?


    The idea weighed heavy on her heart, like she was plummeting into an abyss.

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    Chapter 501


    Of course, looking back was pointless. The moment she cried out for her mother, her cover was blown wide open.


    The memory sparked excitement in Lydia as she hurriedly exined, "I made a break for it, and I''m calling you on the driver''s phone, Julia. How was I supposed to find you? She doesn''t have a dime to her name, and you''ll need to send the cab fare to the driver." Minnie''s worries melted away with Lydia''s words.


    Considering how much the Foster family resented their mother, Lydia''s escape meant she had truly shaken them off. Minnie realized she did not have to worry anymore.


    The taxi smoothly took a turn toward Newstead Zone.


    Once they reached the spot Minnie had sent, she greeted Lydia, settled the fare, and even slipped the driver a cool 200-dor tip.


    The taxi zipped away, not heading back downtown but pulling over in a quiet corner instead.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The driver''s gaze was piercing. Stepping out, he dialed a number right away. "Boss, I''ve spotted the target. Do we grab her now, or hold off?"


    In her wildest dreams, Lydia had not imagined that the taxi she gged down outside the security tower was in cahoots with the Foster family.


    To keep their operations looking legitimate, the Foster family had nearly half the city''s taxis circling the security tower, pretending to pick up fares. Of course, each driver was actually one of the Foster family''s bodyguards in disguise. Meanwhile, a man in a sleek ck suit stepped into Yale''s office, the sound of his knock still hanging in the air.


    "Sir, Minnie and Lydia have linked up, and it''s confirmed-they''re mother and daughter. Should we bring them in now?"


    Yale stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Did you nt the bug?"


    The man gave a quick nod. "Slipped it on her the moment Lydia stepped out of the security tower."


    "Perfect. Ry to our team toy low for now. Keep your eyes on them, but do not grab anyone."


    The real y was not just to nab Minnie. They were after bigger fish-proof that Lydia was behind the sabotage of the Foster family''s darling, Yessica.


    Lydia, nose wrinkled in disgust, stepped into the modest bungalow Minnie had set up for her. "Julia, what is this dump? How do you expect me to live in a ce like this?"


    Minnie had the ce cleaned up beforehand, and honestly, it was not half bad. However, to Lydia, who was used to sprawling vis, that was a hard pill to swallow.


    Years of living high on the hog with Andrew had left her with zero tolerance for difort.


    "If it''s good enough for me, it''s good enough for you." Minnie was fed up with her mother''s constant


    She was not thrilled about the move either, but Newstead Zone''s mountainous expanse was their best shot at staying off the radar.


    Foster Gordon was hot on the trail of the mother-daughter duo, and they knew they had toy low. Nobody could predict the kind of horrors they would face if they got caught. Minnie''s words were enough to seal Lydia''s lips tight.


    The Fosters jail was not just run-down. It was the stuff of nightmares, the kind that could scare them stiff!

 502

    Chapter 502


    Lydia could not help but shiver when she recalled the bodyguards'' conversation.


    She could handle any ce, as long as it did not involve that terrifying electric chair.


    However, Lydia was used to the finer things, and the sudden drop from luxury to that hellhole was tough to swallow.


    She took her daughter''s arm, eyeing her young face that seemed a bit strange then, and asked with a hopeful grin, "Julia, we''re not going to stick around here forever, are we? This ce is so chilly we have to burn logs to keep warm, and bugs could pop out at any moment. Freaky, right?"


    Minnie got the hint and patted her mother''s hand reassuringly. "Don''t sweat it, Mom. This is just for now. Trust me, when it''s time to move, I''ll be the first one out the door."


    Living in those mountains, with the hassle of even taking a bath, was not a permanent n.


    "That''s a relief," Lydia sighed, her eyes quickly scanning Minnie''s face, her brow creasing with concern. Julia, every time we''ve met before, you were always in such a hurry. We never got to really talk. However, now, we can finally catch up, just us." Lydia had a burning question she had been hiding deep down, and this was her chance to let it out.


    Minnie propped her cheek in her hand, striking a pose like she was the next big thing, and asked, "Mom, isn''t my face beautiful?"


    Her new face was a masterpiece, crafted by a top-notch beautician and handpicked by Minnie herself. The materials were nothing but the best. It was a face that could change without shaking her cool.


    That face fit her perfectly, without causing a hint of harm.


    What mother could look at her daughter and not see beauty?


    Without a second thought, Lydia replied, "My darling, you''re absolutely stunning, but I''ve always thought the face I gave you was the best.


    "And who do you know that''s so incredible? They changed your face and nobody''s the wiser. You go abroad ande back with a whole new identity. That''s seriously impressive!"


    Minnie''s eyes slowly met Lydia''s, shining with something like jealousy.


    She was right. Her mother was jealous of her.


    A shadow of sadness flickered through Minnie as memories of her painful past crept in.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    -If her mom knew the darkness she had endured, would she still feel envy?


    However, the past was too painful to dredge up and make her mother''s heart ache.


    "You just need to know they''re really powerful, that''s all. At the end of the day, we just help each other out. Knowing too much isn''t good for you."


    Lydia caught the secretive look on Minnie''s face and nodded understandingly.


    She had only made a passingment to one of Minnie''s goons. Next thing she knew, they had staged a


    massive car crash for Evangeline. It was clear that whoever was backing Minnie had some serious


    influence.


    It was best to leave dealings with such dangerous people to Julia. She needed to keep her distance. "Look, no matter what, as long as we''re together as a family, that''s what counts." Lydia pulled Minnie into a hug. "What about Dad? I haven''t heard anything from him. Do you know where he is now?" After all, her father Andrew always spoiled her rotten, and she could not help but worry about him.

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    GET IT NOW


    Lydia''s thoughts turned to her estranged husband, and her expression darkened.


    "Why waste your thoughts on that loser? He promised me the moon and the stars, but when push came to shove? The moment the Fosters got involved, it all fell apart. He dumped everything on me! Let him do whatever he wants. For all I care, he might as well be dead!" The feud between her parents had all started because of a woman named Yessica, who was Evangeline''s mother.


    "Mom, it''s just us here. You can tell me the truth. How did Yessica really die?"


    Lydia turned pale and dodged the question awkwardly. "Why bring her up out of the blue? She was nothing but trouble, and I''d rather not even speak of her!"


    "But I have to know what happened, right?!" Minnie could not stand it anymore. "Yessica was the darling of the Foster family. There''s no way they''ll just let this slide. If her death has nothing to do with you, then we don''t have to worry about the Fosters. However, if it does, I need to be ready!"


    Lydia, seeing the sense in Minnie''s words, finally spoke up, though she was not happy about it. "Look, Yessica''s death... I had nothing to do with it.


    "Remember when our Rearden family''spany was the new hot thing in Avalon City? Your dad was on top of the world, and I was just the new girl at the office..."


    "So you charmed Dad into leaving Yessica for you?" used Minnie.


    Lydia shot back immediately, "No way! Your dad never told me he was married. I was clueless! I was just a kid, and your dad was this suave, dashing guy who looked out for me, always there to warm me up on a cold day. We fell in love. By the time I found out about Yessica, you were already on the way." Lydia was seething as she said that.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "How could I be a homewrecker? I would have rather ended the pregnancy than be that."


    "The Rearden family started over, firmly deciding to cut ties with your dad for good. However, who would''ve guessed, right when Yessica had just had Evangeline, your dad was all about having a son and he bet everything on me. He wouldn''t leave me alone, insisting I keep you.


    "He said Yessica was a wreck after having Evangeline, barely hanging on, and that once she was gone, I could waltz right into the Rearden family with you in tow. And he kept swearing up and down that I was never the ''other woman''. He imed I was his one true love, from start to finish!"


    Lydia''s anger bubbled over as she spoke, pulling Minnie''s hand into her own, pouring out years of bottled-up hurt.


    "Think about it. I was head over heels for your dad, and you were on the way. How could I just cold-heartedly get rid of you? So, I just went with it... I went along with your dad''s n."


    Minnie tried to piece it together.


    "So, you''re saying Yessica''s death was just from being worn out after the birth, and you had nothing to do with it?"


    Even Minnie was taken aback by her conclusion.


    If it was just postpartum exhaustion, with the Fosters'' reach and power, how could they not figure that


    out?


    "Mom, you''re not messing with me, right?"


    Doubt clouded Minnie''s gaze as she looked at Lydia, her eyes a mix of hope and suspicion.


    The Fosters were the kind of family who always had a reason for everything they did. Thus, if Lydia was telling the truth about being out of the loop on that one, why was Evangeline bending over backward to make sure Lydia got nabbed?

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    Chapter 504


    Minnie''s gut told her something fishy was going on, and she was right on the money. The moment she caught Lydia''s shifty eyes, she knew it.


    The two of them locked in a stare-down for what felt like forever until Lydia finally caved with a big sigh.


    "Look, none of this mess is my fault," Lydia confessed. "Your dad pulled a fast one on me. Yessica wasn''t sick at all. She was alive and kicking the whole time you were in my belly, and even after you were born. I got so fed up that I made your dad choose between us and Yessica and her kid. He didn''t say a word, but a month after our big blowout, Yessica kicked the bucket in the hospital."


    Lydia''s story neatly dumped all the me on Andrew, who was not even there to defend himself, leaving her hands clean.


    However, the whole thing about Yessica''s sudden death just raised a whole bunch of red gs.


    "So you''re saying you have no clue how Yessica could just up and die from being sad?"All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Lydia was all high and mighty with her words.


    However, Minnie, seeing her mother dodge her gaze, knew she had to y it smart.


    She would do anything to cover for her mother. If there was a connection, she would make sure it looked like there was not.


    Too bad for Minnie, it looked like her n did not stand a chance.


    The intimate chat between mother and daughter had already been overheard by Yale, the head honcho of the Foster family, thanks to a sneaky bug tucked away in Lydia''s jacket.


    Within a couple of minutes, the recorded conversation popped up on aputer screen in some swanky overseas pad.


    Yale whipped out his phone and hit up a number.


    "Got the audio?"


    He was on the call with Jack, the Foster family''s second-inmand.


    Ever since Julia and Lydia had vanished into thin air, the Fosters had gone into full-on protection mode for Andrew, thest kid standing.


    Jack was the man with the n, whisking Andrew off to some far-offnd. The goal? To cut him off from the world and let him mull over what really happened to the Foster''s darling daughter.


    Truth be told, keeping Andrew in the dark was a piece of cake for the Fosters. They did not even need to move him, it just so happened that Jack had business overseas, so he brought Andrew along for the ride.


    With both suspects in the bag and their stories on the record, it was crunch time for the Foster brothers to piece the puzzle together.


    Jack caught on to the audio in no time and knew exactly why Yale was on the line. He did not beat around the bush. "Yale, Lydia''s confession doesn''t jive with Andrew''s story. Are these two trying to throw each other under the bus?"


    It was like that old saying, ''When the going gets tough, partners in crime can turn into every man for himself.


    Andrew and Lydia were chillingly self-interested, so them pulling a stunt like that was not a shocker. Thus, while Jack was shocked, Yale was calm. He had seen it alling. The real headache was that after all those years, trying to dig up the past was like looking for a needle in a haystack.


    Yale could not help feeling let down by Lydia''s words. He had hoped she would drop the act with her daughter ande clean, but her shifty words smelled fishy-obvious lies.


    "No biggie. We''ve got our suspect, so what''s there to worry about cracking the case?" said Jack, trying to cheer up his elder brother. However, inside, Jack''s gears were turning. What kind of fireworks would go off if Andrew got wind of Lydia''s spiel?


    No matter what, it would definitely nudge them closer to the truth...


    X

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    Chapter 505


    In the rundown bungalow of Newstead Zone...


    The Foster family''s bodyguard brigade stormed the yard. The folks guarding Minnie and Lydia were quickly overpowered, and the Fosters'' top bodyguard marched right in and escorted the mother-daughter duo out.


    Yale, the cool uncle, took over the whole Lydia and daughter investigation, leaving Evangeline with just one job: keep herself and the bun in the oven safe.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    As she rode back to the vi, Evangeline stared out the window.


    The trees zipped past in a blur, but she could not shake off the feeling. Was it anxiety or sadness weighing on her?


    Lydia was in the. Would she spill the beans about her mother''s death?


    What about Minnie? Would her true identitye to light?


    Evangeline''s mind was a whirlwind of unanswered questions, leaving her restless and uneasy.


    "Miss, you''re looking a bit pale. Maybe you should take a break?" suggested the driver understandingly. Evangeline dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand. "No, let''s just head home."


    All she craved was to copse into the plushfort of her vi''s king-sized bed and sleep away the turmoil.


    Out of nowhere, a sleek silver Lamborghini cut into her view, elerating before slowing down just enough to match her car''s pace.


    "Evie, is that really you?" Hank''s face, lit with surprise, peered through his car window.


    The sight of an old friend sparked a surge of energy in Evangeline. "Hank, what brings you here?"


    She nced at the clock, it was three in the afternoon. Was Hank not supposed to be neck-deep in work at the office?


    However, she quickly reminded herself that it was she who had asked Hank toe back and help run thepany. Bringing up business then would be cold.


    "Just the usualworking," Hank replied with a casual shrug. "However, I guess I''m lucky, running into you like this."


    His smile prompted a simr one from Evangeline, and he signaled his driver to pull over. Catching up was long overdue.


    Evangeline''s spirits, previously dampened, lifted remarkably in Hank''s presence. She wondered if her mood swings were a side effect of pregnancy hormones.


    With that thought, she instructed her driver to stop, and she joined Hank at a nearby restaurant. They chose a cozy spot by the window, the restaurant''s chic ambiance wrapping around them.


    As they settled in, Hank''s eyes briefly lingered on the gentle swell of Evangeline''s abdomen, a flicker of something unreadable passing through his gaze.


    "Evie, it feels like forever since west hung out. How''s everything going?"


    "Hahaha!"


    Evangeline cradled her belly and shuffled around until she wasfortably seated.


    "I''m doing pretty well." Her face lit up with a grin. "Just been home, taking it easy and looking after the little one on the way. It''s wild that we''d bump into each other like this." Taking it easy...


    Hank''s hand tightened into a fist without showing it, forcing a casual tone,


    "So, have you and Walter patched things up?"


    Everyone in Avalon City knew about Evangeline and Walter''s rocky marriage.


    Evangeline was not the type to cheat, so the baby had to be Walter''s.


    However, why?

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    Chapter 506


    Were they not on the brink of divorce?


    "Nope," said Evangeline, a touch of embarrassment in her voice. "This baby is all mine. Walter is not involved,"


    Hank''s gaze grew shadowy.


    If Walter was not involved, it meant they definitely had not made up. However, if they had not made up, why would Evangeline have Walter''s baby?


    Hank did not even have to ask before Evangeline continued.


    "You know how it is. My grandpa has been super sick, and he''s been dreaming of cuddling a great-grandkid. However, my uncles are a bunch of letdowns, none of them willing to tie the knot, so my grandfather''s hopes are all on me..." Evangeline trailed off, leaving the rest unsaid.


    Hank was sharp, so he definitely got the hint.


    Truthfully, for Cole''s sake, Evangeline had already split from Walter without any drama. There was no way she would get tangled up with him again.


    "Got it!"


    Hank let out a silent sigh of relief.


    "But Evie, it''s tough being a single mom. Even with the Foster family''s power, a kid missing out on dad''s love... That''s always sad, you know?"


    Before Hank could finish, a deep voice cut in sharply.


    "Are you about to suggest Evangeline should ditch the kid and hook up with you?"


    The voice wasced with mockery, but Evangeline did not need to look up to know it was Walter.


    "Is that how the Gordons show their ss, Walter? Interrupting people like that?"


    Evangeline''s arms were folded, her gaze icy as she watched Walter''s face go from calm to stormy at her


    words.


    "So, let me turn the tables." Walter slouched against the dining table. "Sneaking around to have dinner with another guy while your husband''s clueless... Is that the Foster family way?" What he did not show was the tempest inside. Walter was so livid that he was about ready to flip the


    table.


    If Walter had not been a big shot in the Gordon family, with a reputation to think about, he would have yanked Evangeline away from that dinner with Hank in a heartbeat. "Family honor?" Evangeline let out a coldugh.


    Was using her of tarnishing the family''s good name not another way of calling her out for being too friendly with the boys?


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, with things the way they are between us, do you really think you can still y the husband card?"


    She rose to her feet, glided over to Walter with effortless grace, and gave his shoulder a patronizing pat.


    "Seems like you''ve forgotten we just wrapped up our divorce''s cooling-off period at the County Clerk''s Office."Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    They had rushed the process because of her sick grandfather and the baby she was carrying. Frankly, though, there were zero lovey-dovey feelings involved.


    Without giving Walter another look, Evangeline turned to Hank with a signal. "Hank, this ce is pretty decent, but the vibe''s been killed. Let''s bounce and eat somewhere less gloomy, yeah?" Hank could not care less about Walter. They could strut out of there without any fuss, so why stick around?


    "Later, Mr. Walter Gordon. Maybe we''ll cross paths again if the stars align."


    With a casual wave, Hank followed Evangeline out, taking exaggeratedlyrge steps and swinging his arms wide, as if he did not have a care in the world.


    Walter watched the scene unfold with a scowl. To him, the gesture reeked of smugness.

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    Chapter 507 Chapter


    507


    Walter''s rage boiled over. His fists were clenched so tight that they could turn coal into diamonds, but he did not budge an inch.


    David, who had just rushed to the scene, was clueless about the drama that had just yed out. He only caught a glimpse of Evangeline whisking by and quickly asked, "Mr. Walter Gordon, I saw Mrs. Gordon take off. Are we still sending people after her?" David, being the go-to guy with connections, recognized Hank in a heartbeat, unlike Walter.


    The Gordons had been keeping tabs on Evangeline, shadowing her every move for her safety. Walter had bolted over, panicking that Evangeline had strayed from her usual path home, fearing the worst.


    However, what he found was far from danger. Evangeline was safe and sound, having dinner with some


    guy!


    "Forget it!" Walter snapped, instantly regretting his outburst. He caught David''s hesitation and shot him a fierce look. "I said no chasing, not no following. What''s gotten into you, David? You''ve been off your game!All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    Ever since David''s little recon mission at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, he had been walking around like a lost soul. To those in the know, he was just tired. To everyone else, it seemed like the salon''s spirits had cast a spell on him. "Me... off my game?" David pointed to himself, baffled.


    Seeing Walter''s face turn stormy as a thundercloud, he mped his mouth shut faster than a bear trap.


    Goodness. Was that all because his wife gave him the cold shoulder, and then he was blowing off steam on him?


    "I''ll get on it right away!"


    David was about to make a beeline for the door when Walter caught him by the arm.


    "Forget it, I''ll handle it myself."


    David stood there, shoulders slumping in defeat.


    He realized Walter was calm with just about everything. Except when it came to his wife.


    He could not wrap his head around it. The guy was head over heels, so why y hard to get?


    Would life not be peachy if they just got along?


    Meanwhile, outside the bistro.


    Evangeline and Hank stepped out, their hunger vanished like smoke. She knew she should treat Walter like any oth

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    Chapter 508


    Inside the car, silence reigned. The driver kept to himself, steering the vehicle. Hank, out of habit, smoothed out his suit sleeve and gazed out the window.


    Out of the blue, his phone red to life. Hank nced at the caller ID and his brow creased in annoyance.


    The ringing grew more insistent, practically screaming at Hank to pick up.


    He finally gave in and answered.


    "What took you so long, you little troublemaker? What are you up to out there?" scolded the voice on the


    other end.


    "Nothing much." Hank let out a forcedugh. "You''re always saying I don''t cut it, right? How am I supposed to get better if I don''t get out and get my hands dirty?" Hank knew exactly what his dad, Grant Tarp, was about toy on him, so he yed his cards right, leaving his father without aeback.


    As expected, Grant''s smooth talking stopped.


    "Look, I know I''ve said it before, but you''ve been out there for what, seven or eight years now, Hank? It''s about time you returned to take the reins, don''t you think?Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "I''m not getting any younger. Can you really stand to watch me work myself to the grave? Your mom is on my case every day, saying I spent my youth chasing thepany. Now, when I should be enjoying time with her, I''m still tied up in work..." When Grant brought up Hank''s mother, Hank''s eyes softened for a second. Nheless... just thinking about stepping into the shoes of Foster Group, about Evangeline, who he had already distanced himself


    from, his heart just was not in it.


    Was this not the moment he had been waiting for all those years by Evangeline''s side?


    "Dad, I''m thinking of staying out here a bit longer. If thepany is in a bind, why not let my brother-inw


    have a crack at it?"


    He did have a sister, but she did not have the business gene like their dad did. Her husband, on the other hand, had a sharp mind, perfect for the business.


    "Are you kidding me? Spouting such nonsense! I have a son, so why on earth would I pass my legacy to an outsider?"


    Hank was at a loss for words.


    "What-century are we in, Dad? Still stuck in the past? My brother-inw''s family too, right? Keeping the business in the family still counts if it''s with him!"


    s, it was like talking to a brick wall. There was no way he was going home to take over the family empire.


    Grant, crafty as ever, had already figured out Hank''s game n. "Stop beating around the bush and just tell me when you''reing home! Your mom and I are waiting for you. Plus, isn''t it time to settle down and get married? 1/2


    "Look, it''s simple. Either return and take over the family business with a smile, or find a wife and bring her home. It''s one or the other. I''m not asking for much, right?"


    Hank pondered for a moment before replying with genuine honesty, "I might think about that second option.

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    Chapter 509


    "Walter, why are you creeping around and following me?" demanded Evangeline with her arms folded, before Walter could even get a word out.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    "I..." Walter stammered, his face a mask of stiffness, words failing him as he faced Evangeline''s frosty demeanor.


    He was oblivious to the fact that his behavior only reminded her of a different, more painful reason for her coldness. "Did you think you hadn''t embarrassed me enough earlier? Is that why you''re shadowing me, to add insult to injury?"


    She would never be able to erase the memory of what Walter had done to her.


    In the backseat of the car, he treated her as if she were nothing more than an object for his amusement. At the restaurant, he had the nerve to call her out in front of everyone,beling her as someone who flirts too much. So then, she was determined to confront Walter and find out what game he was ying.


    ""Evangeline, you''ve got it all wrong, I never..."


    "Never what?" Evangeline cut him off without a hint of politeness. "Never said it, or never did it? Or are you here now to convince me that everything I''ve been through, everything I''ve seen, was just a lie?"


    It was always someone else: Julia, then Minnie. Walter was never short of femalepany.


    She, his wife, was never the one by his side.


    The harsh reality hit her again and again, forcing her to face the truth.


    So...


    "Walter, what''s your deal? Why can''t you leave me alone?"


    What was Walter after, really?


    A shadow of weariness passed over Walter''s eyes.


    He had convinced himself that Evangeline would at least call to let him know she was okay, out of respect for their still-unofficially-ended marriage. However, the call never came.


    He had waited alone in his office, staring at a silent phone that refused to ring.


    When he finally heard about Evangeline''s whereabouts and had someone discreetly follow her, he discovered her, pregnant and all,ughing it up with some other guy.


    He knew what that look meant-Hank had his sights set on Evangeline.


    Jealousy took over, and he blurted out without thinking By the time he realized he had crossed a line, the damage was done.


    If he were to say he had rushed over just toy eyes on Evangeline and the kid, to see them in the flesh


    and breathing, would she buy it?


    In a fleeting nce, Walter''s eyes spilled over with too many emotions.


    Too bad Evangeline could not care less about him.


    She let out a deep sigh. "Look, we''re past the point of making up. So, can you just not? Honestly, my mood''s been all over the cetely, thanks to the pregnancy hormones. The kind of mood swings you can''t control. However, I really don''t want to snap at someone who doesn''t matter. You get that, right?"

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    Chapter 510


    Evangeline fretted over the idea of visiting Cole alone. She feared it might make him overthink things, maybe even worry unnecessarily. She was almost convinced it was better to stay away. Walter had to go and mention Cole, giving her a reason she could not just brush off.


    "Are you threatening me?"


    Was Walter really using her love for her grandpa as leverage, making sure she could not keep her distance?


    "No." Walter''s reply came sharp and clear. "Forget about us for a second. He''s my elder, too. Of course, I want him to live a long, healthy life."


    His answer was so perfect that it made Evangeline feel like she was the one making a big deal out of nothing.


    "If you really mean that, then thanks."


    She was honestly thankful that Walter could still be decent when it came to her grandfather.All text ? N?velD(r)a''ma.Org.


    When it came to the idea of visiting Cole...


    Evangeline''s gaze fell. "I haven''t reassured Grandpa Cole since the car ident. If you''re up for it, let''s go together."


    She knew that despite Yale''s cover-ups, if she kept putting off the visit, Cole would eventually realize something was off.


    That was a confrontation she could not avoid forever.


    However, could she really y the part of the doting partner with Walter in her frame of mind?


    Right then, Walter could not even begin to imagine what the future held for him and Evangeline. All he knew was that he wanted to be there for her, no matter what. "How''s tomorrow sound? Are you free?"


    He had no clue if Evangeline had other ns, was not feeling well, or had someone else she wanted to see. All he cared about was seizing that rare chance to be with her and the kid. "Let''s go tomorrow. Where''s your ce? I''ll arrange for a car to pick you up, and we''ll head to the old house together."


    Evangeline had to ride with Walter to the old house to keep up the pretense of their affectionate -rtionship.


    It was simpler to just pick Walter up herself than to deal with the hassle of traveling separately and switching cars along the way.


    Walter caught sight of Evangeline''s pregnant belly and quickly decided, "Actually, just wait for me at Emerald of the Hignds. I''lle get you."


    Pregnancy made her tired, and while he did not mind an early start, it was better for Evangeline to get some extra sleep.


    "Sounds good."


    Evangeline was done with the back-and-forth. They had finished talking, so she turned on her heel and left. "I''m heading out." The car roared back to life, and Walter got into his own and followed suit.


    They had not gone far when the driver let out a surprised sound. "Ms. Evangeline, Mr. Walter Gordon''s car is still behind us..."


    Under normal circumstances, the Foster family''s drivers would lose any followers for their employers. However, Walter was no ordinary follower, and the driver hesitated to act without orders. Evangeline took a quick look in the rearview mirror.


    Walter''s car kept a steady distance, matching her every move.


    It was like they were connected by an unseen string, each car tugging the other along.


    "Just ignore him and drive," she said.


    Evangeline''s voice was a soft whisper as she pulled her gaze away and closed her eyes in silence, taking a moment to gather her strength.


    The image of the car in her thoughts morphed into Walter''s face, his stubbornness and determination sending her heart into a flutter she could not control.


    She reached for her chest, her fingers curling into a tight fist with such intensity that it felt like she was trying to grasp her own rebellious heart, not just her hand.


    She could not fathom why Walter was so relentless, but she knew nothing she did would sway him. So why waste her breath? She decided to just let it go...


    GET IT NOW

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    Chapter 511


    Somewhere overseas, in the basement of a swanky vi.


    The room was bathed in shades of silver and white, with only a tiny window near the ceiling offering a glimpse of the outside world. Tucked against the wall was a modest single bed.


    In the middle of the room stood a matching set of silver-white furniture, a table, and chairs.


    On one of those spindly chairs sat a man. He was lean, his skin ghostly pale, his face etched with exhaustion and a rough stubble.


    Evangeline would have instantly recognized him. That man was her and Julia''s father, Andrew. His eyes were empty, his presence like a shell devoid of a soul, as he sat there, going through the motions.


    Jack, decked out infy clothes, his ocean-blue eyes narrowing, stretched out on his chair with a yawn before speaking at his own leisurely pace, "Andrew, how''s it been, not seeing you around for a few days?"


    Andrew''s lips parted, dry and cracked. "How do you think it feels to be cooped up here without any idea why, for who knows how long?"


    Jack bit his lip, a mock-serious frown on his face. "I''d be like, ''Man, this ce is boring. When are they going to let me out?""


    Andrew''s eyes lit up with a fierce green spark. "Since you''ve got me all figured out, how about you cut to the chase?"Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    He was on the edge of losing his mind! Ever since Julia disappeared and Lydia was snatched away after an injury, Jack had whisked him off to that hidden ce.


    That was when his life turned into an endless night.


    Day in and day out, Jack would hit him with the same old questions, and he had answered them so many times that he was about to crack. He had even begged for Jack''s understanding, but it was the same old story the next day, leaving him feeling trapped, which was why he had grown so cold toward Jack.


    "A straight answer?"


    Hope flickered in Andrew''s chest.


    Jack raised an eyebrow, flicked a lighter, and fired up a cigarette. As the smoke curled up, his voice, icy and merciless, drifted over, "Dream on!"


    His newfound hope was crushed, leaving Andrew in deeper agony than before. "What else do you want to ask? It''s been ages, and I''ve spilled everything I can think of!"


    Andrew was at his wit''s end. He, who saw nothing worth living for, was hammering the table in frustration.


    He almost wished Jack would just end it for him, to be done with this world. Anything was better than being a living statue in that prison of a room!


    "And another thing, Jack. If Yessica is still out there, you''d still owe me the respect of calling me brother-inw. How can you treat me with such cruelty?"


    Jack''s eyes turned to steel, his whole being radiating a deadly chill. His gaze, sharp as a de, bore into


    Andrew.


    "Andrew, do yourself a favor and drop the subject about Yessica. It''s not doing you any good."


    Jack could not help but seethe with anger at the thought that this guy might have hurt Yessica, the girl his brothers treasured more than anything. He was itching to make him pay!


    Truth be told, if his elder brother had not talked him out of it, saying that a lowlife like Andrew was not worth staining his hands over, Andrew would probably be six feet under, marking his one-year anniversary in the ground. He would not even have the chance to strut around li

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    Chapter 512


    Andrew was no fool. He picked up on Jack''s icy tone and quickly switched to sweet-talking.


    "Okay, okay, I won''t bring her up again. Still, I''ve told you everything I could, and look at me now-my family''s gone, and I''ve got my just desserts. Can''t you just let me off the hook?" He was practically pleading.


    "If you hit me with those questions one more time, I''m going to go crazy!"


    The questions were the same, day in, day out. He could not even use the same answers. He was at his wit''s end, clueless about what to say next.


    Jack''s eyes flickered, and he gestured dismissively at Andrew. "Andrew, I didn''te here to grill you today. You said it yourself that rehashing those questions is a drag, and I''m over it. So today, I''ve got a little surprise for you."


    A spark of hope lit up in Andrew''s eyes, a break from the tedium of his life. "What''s the surprise?"


    Jack pulled out his phone, found a recording, and held it out to Andrew with a smirk. "Trust me, you''re going to like this."


    He tapped the y button with a flourish.


    The woman''s voice spilled out from the speaker like a torrent.


    "Why waste your thoughts on that loser? He promised me the moon and the stars, but when push came to shove? The moment the Fosters got involved, it all fell apart. He dumped everything on me! Let him do whatever he wants. For all I care, he might as well be dead!" Andrew''s face went pale the instant he heard that familiar voice.


    Jack, on the other hand, was immersed in the recording, not even ncing at Andrew''s reaction.


    "Mom, it''s just us here. You can tell me the truth. How did Yessica really die?"


    "Why bring her up out of the blue? She was nothing but trouble, and I''d rather not even speak of her!"


    "But I have to know what happened, right?! Yessica was the darling of the Foster family. There''s no way they''ll just let this slide. If her death has nothing to do with you, then we don''t have to worry about the Fosters. However, if it does, I need to be ready!"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "Look, Yessica''s death... I had nothing to do with it. Remember when our Rearden family''spany was the new hot thing in Avalon City? Your dad was on top of the world, and I was just the new girl at the office..."


    "So you charmed Dad into leaving Yessica for you?"


    The recording cut off abruptly, right before the big reveal.


    Andrew''s face was a mask of anger, and the sudden silence made him scowl with frustration.


    "What on earth did Lydia b about? Why won''t you y it? I''m dying to hear just how much nonsense she can spew!" Andrew''s eyes zed with fury.


    +25 BOWS


    Jack, on the other hand, remained calm. "The next part is a real shocker. I''m worried it might be too much


    for you.


    "You know, Andrew, you and your wife are quite the pair, Always ready to stir the pot but never to own up to it. Kind of makes you wonder if you''re really cut from the same cloth, doesn''t it?


    "I''ve seen my fair share of couples who scatter when trouble hits, but you two, slinging mud at each other with the end near? That''s a first for me, and boy, is it an eye-opener."


    "That lowlife!"


    Andrew''s roar was fierce, and his words flew out rapid fire, fueled by his seething anger. He was so consumed by his rage that he did not even notice Jack, who was clearly getting a kick out of his distress. Andrew was so caught up in his rant that he suddenly pped a hand over his mouth as if he had been zapped by a bolt of lightning.


    GET T NOW

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    21%


    Jack''s brows were raised, and his deep blue eyes sparkled with mischief, making him look especially striking. "Come on, why''d you go silent?"


    He watched Andrew with a mischievous glint, his lips curling into a sly smirk.


    "What did I say?" Andrew, realizing he had slipped up, tried to y dumb. "You must''ve misheard. I didn''t say anything!"


    He knew Jack was not easy to fool and wanted nothing more than to wrap up their chat so he could have some peace and figure out how to wriggle out of that lie.


    "Okay, have you grilled me enough for one day? Can we call it quits? I''m beat..." said Andrew, attempting to rise and head to bed. However, Jack remained seated without the slightest intention of getting up.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Odd. You usually beg me to stick around, to grab a bit more so you don''t die of boredom, but you''re actually shooing me away now...


    "You know the saying, ''When things get weird, there''s usually a monster lurking''? Ever heard that one?"


    Andrew kept up his clueless act. "What are you even saying? It''s all mumbo-jumbo to me. I don''t get it, and I''m done talking."


    He had sprawled out on the single bed as he spoke.


    "It''s no problem if you don''t catch my drift. Just listen to it a few more times, and it''ll click."


    Jack flicked a snap of his fingers into the void.


    Andrew''s voice spilled out from the speaker in the upper corner of the room.


    "That rat! She was the one who insisted oning in because she was pregnant, and she hatched that nasty n that made Yessica seem like she died from an illness, so I..." The recording cut off right there.


    Andrew''s eyes nearly popped out of his head in shock. "Jack, you... You recorded it!"


    "Surprised? Every room herees with the full recording setup." Jack chuckled a bitte. "Oops, slipped my mind, you''re new here, so you wouldn''t know."


    Andrew was seething, his face a shade of thunder.


    However, Jack could not care less. He turned to his henchmen and said, "Andrew is not getting the message. Just keep ying it on loop for him. I''m sure it''ll sink in eventually."


    With those words, Jack rose leisurely and walked out of the basement with a swagger.


    Upstairs in the study, Jack sat on the couch and dialed up Yale, the head of the Foster family.


    "Yale! Andrew spilled the beans-it was Lydia, that woman who was so desperate to get into the Rearden family. She''s the one who cooked up the n that got Yessica killed! He just blurted it out in a fit of rage, though. I haven''t managed to pry the nitty-gritty details out of him yet." Yale''s face turned serious, and a cold aura seemed to wrap around him suddenly. "Take it slow, there''s no


    need to rush."


    His sister Yessica had been gone for so many years, and they were finally close to clearing her name. What was the rush?


    Right then, a notification buzzed on Yale''s phone.


    (Mr. Yale Foster, I''ve got the scoop on the hospital where Ms. Yessica spent herst days. The records


    and all the juicy bits will hit your inbox in three minutes. Keep an eye out.]


    Yale hung up and turned to hisputer, ready to dive in.


    This was shaping up to be quite the day....


    However, Yale''s phone buzzed again.


    "Hey Yale, what''s keeping you busy these days?"

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    Chapter 514


    Cole''s voice was raspy, carrying the weight of a man who was just starting to bounce back from a serious illness.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    "What else? Work and the usualpany stuff."


    Yale dropped what he was doing and answered with an easy smile. "Dad, are you feeling under the weather or something? How about I swing by in the next couple of days?"


    Cole was getting on in years and had be pretty clingy, always hoping his kids, especially Evangeline, woulde around to the family home for a visit.


    That call was a wake-up call for Yale. He had been so wrapped up in Evangeline and Yessica''s business that he would put the old man on the back burner. That was not appropriate.


    "You scamp, if I didn''t ring you up, you''d never think to drop by, would you?"


    Cole''s voice was teasing, but Yale could hear the smile in his words. He was not really mad; he just wanted them toe and hang out with him.


    "Too caught up in work, huh?"


    Yale chuckled awkwardly.


    Grown-ups could act like kids. There was, his dad, the great and powerful, getting all pouty like a little one.


    "Does being busy mean you forget all about me?" Cole put on a show of being upset, but his tone quickly softened. "You''re all swamped with work, I get it, you can''t drop by. But what about Evie? She''s expecting, she can''t be as tied up as you guys, right? Or did you rope her into working too?"


    By the end, Cole sounded genuinely concerned.


    His darling granddaughter was carrying the future of the Foster family. How could they let work stress her out at such a crucial time?


    Yale felt a sting of guilt at his father''s words.


    "Dad, don''t jump to conclusions. Evie is our priority right now, and no one is letting her lift a finger. Remember the car crash fiasco? Evie got off with a scare, and that''s why she hasn''t been able to visit."


    Yale had called home with the news of Evangeline''s safety right after the ident, so Cole was in the


    loop.


    Under normal circumstances, after such a close call, Evangeline should havee to see Cole with Walter. However, the situation with her and Walter...


    Yale adored his niece and did not want Evangeline to trouble herself for a visit, always making excuses to keep herfortable.


    Of course, the other Foster brothers were on the same page. They had managed to put off Evangeline''s visit to see Cole until then.


    However, Cole, who had been given the runaround by his sons a few times already, was determined to get some straight answers before he picked up the phone.


    "Yale, whenever you guys talk about Evie, you''re all saying the same thing. Nothing''s happened to her, right?"


    Yale nearly jumped out of his skin at the question.


    Cole was in the middle of some serious healing, and the doctors had been clear: no stress allowed. If Cole started freaking out and got worse, Yale would never forgive himself. "What could go wrong? She''s just pregnant and resting up at home!*


    "Then bring her back to the family home! The staff here have known her since she was a kid, they''ll take great care of her..."


    Yale bit his lip. "Dad, can I talk it over with Evie first?"


    Evangeline got Yale''s call as the sun was setting. She told him she had already made ns to visit Cole with Walter, and then she started to worry.


    How was she going to act around Walter tomorrow?

 515

    If Evangeline was not affectionate enough, Cole would definitely get suspicious. However, if sheid it on too thick, how would she handle her own feelings? She had just managed to steady her heart...


    She absentmindedly rubbed her belly.


    The baby was too little to interact with her yet. However, she could feel every beat of her baby''s heart. The bond of blood was just that powerful.


    All of a sudden, she realized...


    Perhaps it would be appropriate to say she was ying a part in a drama.


    She might not be in love with Walter, but that did not mean their kid should not love his dad. She could not deny her child the right to his father''s love... Winter mornings sure liked to take their sweet time showing up.


    By seven, the sky was barely blushing with the first light. Walter''s ride, there to scoop up Evangeline, was already waiting downstairs, far ahead of time.


    In the biting cold of winter, he just stood there, silently watching the window of Evangeline''s room.


    Julieta was notified of who Walter was, and she was not exactly his fan. Still, she went down to greet him, because manners.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, the miss is still catching some sleep. I''ll go get her up."


    "No rush, Julieta. We''re ahead of schedule. I got here too early," Walter replied without missing a beat.


    He had done his homework, all for Evangeline and the little one on the way.


    Evangeline was right in the middle of morning sickness. The roughest patch of pregnancy, and catching any sleep was a big win.


    "I''ll hang tight right here..."


    Julieta eyed Walter up and down.


    His fancy camel coat looked cozy, but it was no match for the winter wind....


    However, there he was, willing to freeze a bit if it meant Evangeline could sleep in a little more.


    Was he putting on a show?


    Julieta never got the lowdown from Evangeline about Walter''s faults, but the gossip rags sure did not hold back. ying dumb was not an option for her. "No worries. The miss told me to wake her if you showed up early."


    Julieta did not waste a second and went upstairs.


    Walter was left shivering in the chilly breeze, scratching his head in confusion. Did Evangeline, the nanny, not have the manners to invite him in to get warm? Chapter 515


    Truth was, Evangeline had been up for ages and had even gotten dressed super early. She had note down because she was busy in front of the mirror, working on her smile.


    She was trying to perfect the smile she would give Walter when Grandpa Cole was watching. She never thought she would have to practice something like that.


    Her smiles for Walter used to burst out naturally, a true show of her feelings. However, things had changed. She found herself feeling calmer around Walter. What if her grandfather picked up on that?


    Julieta tapped lightly on the door. "Miss, Mr. Walter Gordon is here."


    "Okay, got it."


    Evangeline gave the corners of her mouth a little pull, managing a pretty clear smile, then quickly stood


    1. up.


    She had not eaten breakfast yet. Fortunately, Julieta was the caring type, and she would not dream of letting Evangeline skip the most important meal of the day. So, they decided to let Walter in, and after Evangeline had her breakfast, they would all head over to the Foster family''s old ce.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    In the dining room, Evangeline slowly savored the in oatmeal Julieta had whipped up.


    On the shiny porcin te, the adorable little buns were not just a feast for the eyes-they were also sending out waves of tempting aroma, making Evangeline''s mouth water.

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    Chapter 516 Chapter


    516


    Julieta was a whiz in the kitchen and always took the time to whip up delicious meals, so even though Evangeline was dealing with morning sickness, she never missed a meal. She managed to keep down more food than she lost, so she was feeling pretty okay.


    Walter lounged on the living room couch, perfectly positioned to watch Evangeline eat. Seeing her enjoy her meal so much made him feel much better.


    At least their drama had not messed with her pregnancy; that was something to be thankful for.


    That being said, Evangeline''s breakfast smelled amazing...


    Evangeline was chowing down when she heard a stomach growling. It was the kind of noise that only a hungry belly could make.


    She nced at Julieta, who quickly shook her head-it was not her..


    So, both their eyes turned to Walter, who was still sitting on the couch.


    Had Walter skipped breakfast? Evangeline thought she had heard wrong until the growling came agam,


    and Walter''s red face confirmed it.


    "Walter, if you haven''t eaten,e grab a bite with us," she offered, shooting him an inviting look.


    Truth be told, she could not care less if Walter was hungry or not. However, considering he had to y his part in their little actter, it would not be cool to let him starve. Walter got up and took the seat across from Evangeline.


    He was definitely feeling the pangs of hunger, but sitting across from Evangeline beat out any meal in his book. At some point, he could not quite pinpoint when every shared meal with her had be something to treasure. At the Foster family''s grand old house.


    Evangeline gingerly stepped out of the car, her hand on her lower back for support.


    Walter was already there, waiting by the car door. As she got out, he gently wrapped his arm around her, a silent promise of support.


    "Take it easy, okay? You''ve got to take extra care right now," he said with a casual warmth that suggested he had always been that protective of her.


    However, Evangeline was not used to being coddled like that.


    She moved stiffly, unable to pull away from Walter''s embrace because of the weingmittee of uncles. With no choice but to y along, she leaned into him, the picture of vulnerability.


    "Almost three months and acting like a porcin doll," she teased, her voice light and yful. Walter''s response was a shiver, and his hold on her grew more natural, more sure.


    They had no idea their closeness would cause such a stir among the onlookers.


    12Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Yale and the youngest brother James were usually masters of hiding their feelings. The second brother Jack and the fourth brother Aemon were out of town, but it was the third brother Holden who was visibly taken aback.


    His eyes nearly bulged out of his head in shock, and it took a discreet jab from James to get him topose himself.


    "Hey... Evie, your grandfather has been waiting for you forever. Why haven''t you dropped by to see him? Holden threw out the question, trying to break the ice with a casual excuse. However, deep down, all the Foster brothers knew they were in on the n to give Evangeline some extra time before she had to face Cole.


    Evangeline rolled her eyes, knowing her uncle was just putting on a show. She tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear and said, "It''s all Walter''s fault." She shot Walter a yful, using look.


    "I was just a little shaken up from the car crash, right? And this guy here, he''s been super overprotective, practically chaining me to the house. If I hadn''t been missing Grandpa like crazy and worried he''d be fretting over me, Walter probably would''ve never let me step outside!"


    Her words were so smooth and genuine that everyone, except Walter, gasped. Since when were Evangeline and Walter the picture of a perfect, loving couple?


    Wait a minute... Did they patch things up?

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    Chapter 517


    Yale was pondering all that, already plotting to get the information from Evangeler.


    Meanwhile, Cole, who had been anxiously waiting in the living room, caught a glimpse of Evangeline and Walter looking cozy on the surveince feed and felt a wave of relief wash over him. His mood lifted, and it showed.


    So when he finally joined the crowd, Cole seemed in much better spirits than usual


    Before anyone knew it, the living room was buzzing with people. The Foster brothers made sure to warmly wee Walter, their nephew by marriage, acting like the whole divorce drama was just water under the bridge.


    The warmth of the family gathering was infectious, and even Evangeline, who knew the truth of the matter, could not help but be moved.


    As they ate, Cole''s eyes brimmed with tears, a testament to a lifetime of memories. He reached out taking Walter and Evangeline''s hands and tenderly joining them together.


    "Evie, Walter, knowing you two are so blissfully happy gives me peace of mind," he said. "If the dayes when I can''t catch my breath and I head off to join your grandmother, I''ll go with no regrets..."


    Cole''s voice broke as tears spilled over, and he quickly wiped them away.


    Back in his heyday, he was a force to be reckoned with, always getting his way and rarely paying much mind to the kids. However, with the years weighing on him, all he wanted was to see his children''s joy and to cuddle a few sweet grandkids-that would be enough.


    Evangeline reached for Cole''s hand, reassuring him, "Grandpa, stop with the gloomy talk. You''re the picture of health-you''re going to outlive us all! And think about your great-grandson, my little golden boy, still growing inside me. You wouldn''t want him to miss out on meeting his great-grandpa, would you?"


    "Alright, alright, no more of that talk..." Cole, still dabbing at his eyes, managed a smile.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    "That''s the spirit. We''ve got to stay healthy, especially since I''m counting on you to help with the little one. Walter and I have it all nned out-once the baby arrives, we''ll let the uncles run thepany for a bit while we go on a world tour, make up for the honeymoon we never had...*


    Walter added, "Absolutely, Grandpa. You''ve got to stick around! Evie''s right-we wouldn''t trust our kid with anyone but you."


    With that, the family gathering wrapped up on a high note.


    Under the gaze of onlookers, Walter gently helped Evangeline into the car with utmost care. As soon as the car door shut, the shy, charming look on Evangeline''s face vanished into thin air. Walter was still lost in the bliss of being with his wife and child when he suddenly felt a coldness radiating from Evangeline.


    "Walter, thanks for ying along with me, but now, it''s time to let go....* Evangeline sat ngidly, unmoving in Walter''s arms, intentionally putting space between them to avoid any physical contact.


    The sudden shift left Walter stunned and defenseless. With a look of disgust from Evangeline, he reluctantly pulled back his hands. "Evangeline, do you really have to be like this? After all, I am the father Chapter 517


    of this child..."


    "You may be the father, but the mother isn''t your wife. So, until the baby is born, please show some


    respect."

 518

    Chapter 518


    Evangeline wanted nothing to do with Walter.


    She was even somewhat scared of getting too close. She feared that if Walter was too tender with her, she might forget the pain that had once been forced upon her and fall back into a hopeless crush on him.


    The car roared to life, and the two in the back sat worlds apart, one to the left and the other to the righ


    The driver, focused on his job, was so spooked by the tension behind him that he barely dared to take a deep breath.


    Evangeline was never one to stand an awkward silence. Though she wanted to keep her distance from Walter, her ingrained politeness would not allow the silence to linger.


    The words of her bodyguard echoed in her mind, and Evangeline''s eyebrow raised as she eyed the man before her. "Walter, I''ve heard... you''re on the hunt for Minnie?"


    Walter''s face lost color for a moment, but he quickly masked his shock with a neutral expression.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    It was no shocker to Evangeline that he was searching for Minnie. After all, the Fosters and the Gordons were titans shing in equal might.


    "Got any clues about her whereabouts?"


    He had been harboring suspicions that Evangeline''s car crash had something to do with Minnie''s vanishing act on the cruise. He could not afford to take it lightly. Besides stationing a squad of top-notch bodyguards to watch over Evangeline in secret, the Gordons had sent out all hands on deck to find Minnie.


    What Walter did not realize was that his urgency was like a needle to Evangeline''s heart, jolting her to a harsh reality.


    The gentle night they had shared on the cruise was nothing more than a stolen moment from Minnie. In Walter''s world, Minnie was the star, and Evangeline was just a shadow.


    In that case, why bother pining over him?


    "Sure, I know where she is." blurted Evangeline, her voice steady. "It''s no big deal, really. I just wanted to let you know that Minnie is with the Fosters. We''ve got her back, so you can rx." However, deep down, Evangeline was certain Walter would read between the lines and fret over his precious Minnie.


    "Evangeline, would you let me take Minnie off your hands?"


    Walter took a moment to gather his thoughts before he finally broke the silence.


    Minnie was a puzzle with pieces missing. It was not just the dark secret of her harming Evangeline that h��ng over her head, but also the enigmatic Bennison family lurking in the shadows. Minnie was the only link Walter had to that elusive n at the moment. The thought that the Bennisons might be plotting against both their families made Walter restless.


    However, what he saw as his duty came across wrong to Evangeline, who thought of Julia.


    She had despised Julia with a passion and hunted her down relentlessly. It was Walter who had whisked Julia away, hiding her so well she vanished from the world.


    Then, with Julia transformed into Minnie, Walter was her shield once again.


    "Walter, what''s so special about Julia?" Evangeline could not help but wonder.


    What made Walter, who always seemed so untouchable, so ready to bend over backward for her? To protect her without a second thought, no matter the cost? However, Evangeline bit back the rest of her words. Admitting how much Walter cared for another woman felt like a p in the face, especially after she had nearly lost her life trying to save him.


    In a twist of fate, they both narrowly escaped death in a daring rescue, but neither came out unscathed.


    Walter''s heartache and tender memories were wiped clean, while Evangeline''s heart was lost forever.

 519

    Chapter 519


    Evangeline fought the urge to clutch at the hollow space over her heart.


    "Forget it, I''m never going to let you have Minnie."


    Yale had let her know that Minnie was indeed Julia, one of the culprits who plotted with the Andrews to take down her mother.


    "How could someone like her just give herself up so easily?"


    Besides, it was not up to her to decide where Minnie went.


    The enemy of Julia''s family was not just Evangeline-it was the whole Foster family.


    "Why? Evangeline, don''t you realize how much she means to me?" Walter blurted out in a rush, grabbing Evangeline''s hand.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    In his mind, he was screaming at her, ''Don''t you see? This woman''s fate is linked to the survival of both the Foster and Gordon families!''


    "Yeah, I get it." Evangeline pulled her hand away, her voice calm and steady. "Minnie means a lot to me,


    too."


    She almost brought up Minnie''s real identity to Walter, but she swallowed her words at thest second.


    After all, the moment Walter stood up for Minnie without a second thought, Evangeline realized something: Walter was not worthy of being in on any secrets with her. Knowing that giving up Minnie could mean she would vanish just like Julia did, Evangeline''s resolve hardened. She was not going to let history repeat itself.


    "So, Walter, you''re after Minnie, huh? Alright, let''s see who''s got the upper hand!"


    As they spoke, the car had covered a good stretch of road.


    Walter''s gaze fell on Evangeline''s frosty demeanor, a look of resignation flickering in his eyes.


    The Foster family''s security was impressive and nationally r��cognized. Snatching someone from their grasp was easier said than done.


    Out of the blue, Evangeline pointed to a rest area up ahead.


    "Could you pull over at the rest area, sir? My ride from the Foster family is waiting for me there." She had nned it all along.


    There was no way she would stay in Walter''s car when she could switch to one from the Foster family, strategically parked at the rest stop along the highway. The driver, not daring to overstep, stole a nce at Walter for approval.


    With a nod, he guided the car into the service area.


    As soon as the engine cut off, Evangeline reached for the door handle.


    "Hold on." Walter, silent until then, finally piped up.


    "Is there something else?" she asked.


    "There is." He nodded, but instead of borating, he leaned in close to Evangeline.


    Before she could react, Walter''s arm was around her, pulling her into an unexpected embrace.


    The move was so unexpected that Evangeline only caught a glimpse of Walter''s face before she was suddenly wrapped in his wide, protective arms. "Walter, release me!" She fought fiercely against his hold, but it was futile.


    Instead, her struggles seemed to make him grip her even tighter.


    Then, out of nowhere...


    "Stay still," hemanded.


    "And why would I do that?" she snapped back.


    Evangeline gave him a withering look. "Believe me, if you don''t let go this instant, I''ll roll down the window and yell for help..."


    She was cut off by a heavy sigh from Walter.


    "Evangeline, you''re alive. That''s... That''s wonderful."


    He had longed to say those words since the moment he saw her, alive and well.


    Alive. What a beautiful thing.


    The thought of Evangeline, standing there, sharing the same air, made Walter feel like even breathing was a joy.

 520

    Chapter 520


    What?


    Walter''s voice echoed in Evangeline''s mind, but she could not wrap her head around it.


    Was he genuinely relieved she survived that massive car ident? If he was, it was probably more about the baby she was carrying, right? Evangeline was caught up in her thoughts when suddenly, she felt a weight lift off her.


    She was no longer trapped-she was free.


    A big, strong hand helped her open the car door as a voice came to her, reminding, "Be careful, Evangeline."


    Walter spoke like they were just strangers exchanging polite words.


    However, Evangeline did not care anymore.


    "Got it, thanks," she replied politely, stepped out, and walked away.


    Actually, she had stopped caring a while ago.


    She had almost given up her life to save Walter once. However, Walter had given her a new life in return, so they were even.


    After parting ways with Walter, Evangeline did not head back to the vi. Instead, she went straight to the Foster family''s security office.


    Three of her uncles showed up too. However, James Foster had to leave quickly because of work.


    Holden exined to Evangeline that James''sw firm hired a new assistant who was a total mess, always mixing up client files. For the firm''s reputation, James had to rush back. Evangeline found it odd.


    James was known for his precision in legal affairs. This new assistant, who kept making constant mistakes, must be a disaster.


    With James''s no-nonsense style, why would he keep such an assistant?


    "You don''t think Uncle James... has something else going on with the assistant, do you?"


    Holden frowned for a second but then noticed Evangeline''s knowing look and broke into a mischievous grin, nodding. "Oh, it''s possible! I''ve never seen James so rattled before! Next time I catch him, I''ll make sure he spills everything!" Holden dered with his hands on his hips, looking at Evangeline with fierce


    determination.


    While the two joked around, Yale emerged from the interrogation room.


    "What''s got you two so chatty?" he asked, pulling up a chair and sitting down, still clutching a stack of


    papers.


    "We''re talking about Uncle James. It seems like he''s up to something, maybe bringing back a new aunt for me...


    Evangeline and Holden shared a knowing grin, bursting intoughter.


    "Seriously? That would be another big celebration for the Foster family then, huh?"


    Evangeline zeroed in on the word ''another''.


    "Is there another happy asion?"


    Yale scratched his chin, gave Evangeline a thoughtful look, and then handed over the documents. "Take a look..."Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Evangeline took the papers, realizing they were her mother''s old medical records and hospital files!


    "Uncle Yale, is this the hospital where Mom stayed before she passed?" Evangeline''s face brightened with surprise, but it quickly turned serious. Right there on the cover, the words ''Frin Mental Hospital'' stood out starkly.


    "How could Mom have been mentally ill?"


    The question popped out before she could stop it, and Holden gave her a sympathetic look.


    He patted her shoulder gently, as if trying to lend her his strength.

 521

    Chapter 521 Chapter 521


    "Evie, Yale and I have been talking for a while, and we decided it''s up to you whether to learn the truth. If you''d rather not know, leave it to us. We''ll make those two scoundrels pay."


    Holden''s face was overtaken with hatred and rage, finally turning into a look of determination. Yale stayed quiet, simply nodding to show he agreed.


    Both men looked at Evangeline with concern.


    Yale, however, still seemed uneasy. "Evie, you''re not on your own anymore. You have to think about others


    too."


    Evangeline got the hint. Yale was reminding her she was about to be a mother, so she could not act on impulse.


    She also figured out what the other happy news Yale referred to was. Finally uncovering the truth about her mom''s death was definitely big news.


    Her vision started to blur, but memories in her mind became sharper.


    Evangeline was so young when her mother was sick, and she could only recall her pale face and brave


    smile.


    After all the time that had passed, there was no way to investigate without any clues.


    She was so close to the truth, atst-just one page away from opening the medical record.


    How could she give up?


    With shaky hands, Evangeline gently touched her belly, having a little chat in her head with her baby. "Hey, I need to know how your grandmother died. Be strong, okay? Once grandma''s name is cleared, everything I have will be yours, alright?'' She chuckled at herself. Her baby was still so tiny-how could the child respond?


    Suddenly, Evangeline''s eyes popped wide open as a slight push came from her rounded belly.


    The sensation was indescribable, but she just knew it.


    The baby moved.


    She was definitely not imagining things-the baby in her belly really moved! Evangeline was three months pregnant, and this was the baby''s first movement!


    Was this the child''s silent support... for her to learn the truth?


    A wave offort washed over her, and she ced her hand on the medical record.


    "I''ve made up my mind. No matter what, I need to uncover the cause of Mom''s death and seek justice for her myself. She gave life to me, and this is thest thing I can do for her!" Holden still seemed uneasy and wanted to stop her, but Yale held him back.


    Evangeline opened the medical records, each entry a grim reminder of the suffering her mother endured.


    Chapter 521 Chapter 521


    +25 BON


    "Evie, Yale and I have been talking for a while, and we decided it''s up to you whether to learn the truth. If you''d rather not know, leave it to us. We''ll make those two scoundrels pay."


    ? Holden''s face was overtaken with hatred and rage, finally turning into a look of determination. Yale stayed quiet, simply nodding to show he agreed.


    Both men looked at Evangeline with concern.


    Yale, however, still seemed uneasy. "Evie, you''re not on your own anymore. You have to think about others too."


    Evangeline got the hint. Yale was reminding her she was about to be a mother, so she could not act on impulse.


    She also figured out what the other happy news Yale referred to was. Finally uncovering the truth about her mom''s death was definitely big news.


    Her vision started to blur, but memories in her mind became sharper.


    Evangeline was so young when her mother was sick, and she could only recall her pale face and brave smile.


    After all the time that had passed, there was no way to investigate without any clues.


    She was so close to the truth, atst-just one page away from opening the medical record.


    How could she give up?


    With shaky hands, Evangeline gently touched her belly, having a little chat in her head with her baby. ''Hey, I need to know how your grandmother died. Be strong, okay? Once grandma''s name is cleared, everything I have will be yours, alright?'' She chuckled at herself. Her baby was still so tiny-how could the child respond?


    Suddenly, Evangeline''s eyes popped wide open as a slight push came from her rounded belly.


    The sensation was indescribable, but she just knew it.


    The baby moved.


    She was definitely not imagining things-the baby in her belly really moved! Evangeline was three months pregnant, and this was the baby''s first movement!


    Was this the child''s silent support... for her to learn the truth?


    A wave offort washed over her, and she ced her hand on the medical record.


    "I''ve made up my mind. No matter what, I need to uncover the cause of Mom''s death and seek justice for her myself. She gave life to me, and this is thest thing I can do for her?"Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Holden still seemed uneasy and wanted to stop her, but Yale held him back.


    Evangeline opened the medical records, each entry a grim reminder of the suffering her mother endured.


    Oragter 521


    A mental hospital-what a nightmare of a ce


    Her mother, Yessica, was dumped there by those two monsters, Andrew and Lydia! Each treatment must have been a fresh hell....


    Yale''s voice whispered through the turmoil in her mind The Foster family never had any mental illness history. This report confirms it-your mother was killed in a plot by Andrew and Lydia..."


    Yessica died from suffocation due to her heart giving out. It was from overdosing on a drug called promethazine. So when she passed away back then, it was shrugged off as just an unfortunate ident, Chapter 520

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 522

    Chapter 522


    The truth was always brutal.


    Evangeline thought she was ready to face the past, but she underestimated the weight of it all. She underestimated the cruelty of her father and stepmother.


    In Avalon City''s Supreme Court, the ugly details of Yessica''s death started toe out as Andrew and Lydia turned on each other.


    Yessica, the Foster family''s darling, cut all ties with her folks to be with Andrew, the man without a dime


    to his name.


    They came to Avalon City, strangers in a strangend, relying only on each other.


    Yessica, who was raised in luxury, found herself cooking and even working to support the household, all for him. However, even with her sharp business mind that had thepany thriving, she stepped aside to boost Andrew''s ego, all for love. She never thought she had trusted the wrong person-a hopeless romantic who would waste her life.


    Andrew, after marrying, got lost in the high life.


    Then Lydia showed up, fresh out of college, just as Andrew was on top of the world. Lydia, with her sweet voice and charming ways, had Andrew wrapped around her finger.


    Just when it seemed nothing could break their bond, Yessica, who had struggled for so long to have a baby, finally got pregnant with Evangeline. This made Lydia panic.


    She knew she was just the other woman and could notpete with Yessica, the real powerhouse behind thepany. Thus, she poured all her efforts into making Andrew see things her way, filling his head with sweet whispers.


    After carrying her baby full term, Yessica gave birth to a little girl named Evangeline.


    Even before she could fully recover, Andrew blew up at her, angry that she had not given him a son.


    At that time, Andrew and Lydia managed to take all control away from Yessica at thepany.


    Yessica''s loyal employees could not bear to see her kept in the dark any longer, so they confessed to her about Andrew and Lydia''s affair.


    In the dead of winter, with just a thin coat on, Yessica cradled baby Evangeline and begged Andrew toe back to his senses for the sake of their family.


    s, it was all for nothing. Andrew was too far gone, too ensnared by Lydia toe back.


    Yessica had left everything behind for love, but Andrew had abandoned her and their daughter.


    As time went on, Yessica fell into a deep depression, her health, both mental and physical, crumbling.


    Meanwhile, Lydia, full of life, was expecting a child named Julia.


    Andrew did not bring up anything about divorcing Yessica, leaving Lydia anxious about what might happen if Andrew found someone new.


    Thus, with Lydia''s urging. Andrew set his sights on eliminating Yessica. They first imed she was ill and had hermitted to a mental institution, paving the way for their n to fall into ce. "The court has found Andrew and his lover Lydia guilty of conspiring against Yessica. The verdict is nowUpstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    delivered...


    In this shocking crime, There was no question about it-the two were sentenced to death instantly.


    Julia, who had been tangled up with Walter under the name Minnie, was released due to her young age at the time of the incident. She walked out of the courtroom a free person.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 523

    Chapter 523


    Andrew and Lydia were escorted out by the police, and as they passed Evangeline, Andrew shot he a look filled with tears of rage.


    "Evangeline, you ungrateful daughter! You betrayed your father! You''ll meet a worse fate than your mothe did!"


    Andrew''s shouts echoed throughout the courtroom. Evangeline remained calm, motioning for the officers to pause before taking him away, and replied coolly, "Whether I meet a bad end is anyone''s guess, but you''re the one facing a grim fate." Execution by firing squad-it was a brutal way to go.


    "Goodbye..."


    ''Dad.''


    Evangeline whispered the word "Dad" in her heart. Andrew was her father, and the blood tie made the


    death sentence hit hard.


    She was d her mother''s unjust death was finally avenged. However, she was also tom because her father would pay for it with his life. He was her mother''s husband, after all.


    She could not bear to think beyond that.


    Touching her belly, Evangelin�� wondered...


    Would her baby resent her? For sending her grandfather to his death, leaving her without someone who might have loved her even before she was born?


    However, Evangeline quickly got an answer to that: If Evangeline, Andrew''s daughter, did not get any special love from Andrew, why would his grandchild? Maybe this was just fate''s way, and was the best possible oue.


    As Evangeline left the courthouse, she crossed paths with Julia, who had just been released.


    She was in no mood to talk, but Julia surprised her by speaking first.


    "Hey, long time no see!"


    Her words felt foreign to Evangeline.


    "I''d prefer never seeing you again," Evangeline retorted with a cold smile, not bothering to spare Julia''s feelings.


    Putting aside the older generation''s grudges, Evangeline was not exactly thrilled with her half-sister, who had stolen her husband.


    "Yeah, I had hoped so too."


    Julia did not seem to mind at all and said it with a cheerful grin.


    She had finally dropped her disguise as Minnie and regained her true identity-Julia.


    "Too bad I''ve been let off the hook now, so we might bump into each other again. After all, Walt and L.


    Mentioning Walter made Julia''s cheeks flush. She was obviously hinting to Evangeline that things were getting serious between them,


    "And hey, when the timees, don''t forget toe and bless us!"


    Seriously? Her half-sister marrying her ex-husband and even asking her for blessings?


    Evangeline listened, thinking Julia must have lost her mind.


    Of course, Evangeline knew Julia''s annoying ways inside out, and she was ready to strike backBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Her eyes twinkled mischievously as she casually rubbed her belly, "Sure, I''ll bring the child along to wish a lifetime of happiness for the both of you."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 524

    Chapter 524Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Evangeline''s smile was a stark contrast to Julia''s dark expression.


    Since hooking up with Walter, they had not even made love. Worse still, here Evangeline was with a baby! Evangeline''s words felt like a p in the face, a subtle way to mock her.


    "Sure. Walt will be thrilled!"


    Julia''s ability to switch expressions was lightning-fast. Just a blink, and her frown turned into a grin.


    However, Evangeline was not interested in seeing that smile and waved her hand dismissively.


    "I''ve got stuff to do, so I''ll be off."


    She nodded slightly and was about to leave when Julia picked up the conversation again.


    "Mm-hmm, Evangeline, I know you''re busy. Oh, how forgetful of me! I left Walt waiting. I better go find him, or he might get upset," she said, making it sound like it was a big deal, and gestured toward the distance. Evangeline followed her gaze and saw a sleek ck Rolls Royce parked by the curb. There stood Walter, tall and patient, waiting by the car,


    Julia, worried that Evangeline might not understand, helpfully added, "You know how difficult it was for Walt and me to finally be together, right? I''m always scared of making him mad. You understand, don''t you?" Evangeline''s eyes dimmed, and she forced a faint smile. "Of course, I understand."


    She turned and got into her car, unable to hide the sadness in her eyes.


    Maybe in this rtionship, she was always the one tangled up in it.


    Walter would choose Julia over her without a second thought. She had known this for a long time, yet it hurt her every time.


    She could notprehend what kind of deep feelings would make him ditch work and drive to the courthouse to wait for her to finish her trial.


    Did Walter help Julia get through this trial unscathed?


    Suddenly, the little baby in her belly kicked, reminding Evangeline of the tiny life within her.


    She lovingly caressed her stomach.


    #


    She should appreciate what she had. Having a baby with Walter was more than enough.


    Yessica''s case was resolved atst, and the criminals got what they deserved.


    Her Grandpa Cole, uncles, and the baby were fine. As long as her family stayed safe and happy, she would be content.


    Unfortunately, Evangeline did not know that the situation between Walter and Julia was not as Julia had imed. Walter''s meeting with Julia was because of something else. Chapter 524


    Something that involved the very survival of the Gordon and Foster families.


    David sat in the driver''s seat and Walter in the passenger''s seat, so Julia tactfully got into the back seat


    After she shut the car door, she patted the seat next to her invitingly, "Walt,e sit over here. There''s plenty of room."


    Julia was used to being with Walter as Minnie, and since she was back to being herself, it felt a bit strange.


    Walter thought about the old Julia for a moment, falling silent. Once he gathered his thoughts, he decided not to waste time on small talk. "Julia, is there anything you''d like to say for yourself?" "Of course I do,"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 525

    Chapter 525


    "Walt, I know you still care about me. It''s just that Evangeline clung to you so much that she messed WITH your head. That''s why you treated me like that. But now that you two are getting divorced, can''t we together?" Julia got a bit carried away and reached for Walter''s arm, but he smoothly dodged it


    He turned back to her, his dark eyes locking onto hers, and asked seriously, "Julia, you know that''s not what I want to hear."


    Walter was not interested in dancing around the issue, so he cut to the chase. Tell me. I sent you to Northern Montavia myself, and now you''vee back as Minnie with a different face. What''s the story


    Walter had a hunch. The Bennison family was making bold moves, and Julia, with her new identity, showed up at just the right time. It seemed like the Bennison family, who had eyes on the Gordon and Foster families, was backing her! However, since the Benisson family had not made any obvious missteps, he needed to focus on Julia as


    his way in.


    Walter was worried Julia might disappear again after resurfacing, which was why he looked for her as soon as she got out of prison.


    Julia looked a bit panicked for a second, but she quickly pulled herself together.


    "Walt, remember when you sent me off to Northern Montavia? Now that I''ve finally made it back, don''t you feel a bit guilty? Don''t you think you owe me?"


    *Julia was ying dumb, and Walter had zero patience for it. "Julia, we both know what''s going on. There''s


    no point in pretending."


    "Alright, then." Julia smirked, cing a hand on Walter''s shoulder, her lips brushing close to his ear. "How about a deal? You know I''ve always had a thing for you. Why don''t you divorce Evangeline and marry me? I''ll tell you everything you want to know." "No way!" Walter shoved Julia back, his eyes filled with disgust.


    "Julia, I''ve never had feelings for you. If you hadn''t saved me that one time, none of this would''ve happened. I''ve already repaid that debt. Don''t expect anything more from me." Walter tried to be polite, but his look of disdain was as sharp as a knife to someone who loved him.


    Julia''s face twisted with anger. "So you''re into that witch Evangeline, huh? But she''s leaving you, isn''t she? No matter how much you like her, it''s hopeless. She''s stubborn as a mule. "Are you, Mr. Walter Gordon of the great Gordon family really going to end up alone over her?"


    She aimed to hurt Walter with her words.


    Yet, Walter was prepared, his expression unchanging. This is between Evangeline and me. It''s none of your business. Even if we can''t make our marriage work, she''s worth being alone for..." Chapter 525


    is that 597 *** sewed, her eyes gepung me shop light "Well, if that''s how it is, then we''ve got nog mors to say for newer got guy idgination our of me unless you make me Mrs Gordon..." to ge


    The conversaronted teades wh


    Whated her texth in tryggin


    it was at Ever''s face, that sy for if she bed ootconstantly been flirting with Walter, how could her darling Wat haves change of bei ype was Gelounced to make her suffer!


    pl


    Last time, Everine got lucky the n her mom set to have Evangeline hit on the highway failed, and now even her mom was ca****


    This time, she was determined to make sure Evangelie would not escape!


    Rags bored in J''s eyes, but as she looked up, checked eyes with Walter''s intense stare.


    He stood with arms crossed, his dark eyes boning into


    Shy knew that look all too well in the past, every time Julia showed up in his line of sight, she would


    feceive that


    Eventually, it was a gaze special only toward her


    However, ever since Evrope wrourced she were a divorce from Walter on that cruise night, everything changed.


    Julis, do you really want to be Mrs. Gordont


    Water chuckled lightly


    internally, he was mocking the woman in front of him for being so full of herself. Did she think Walter was some kind of dump? Where any stray could just walk


    "You''re so sure of yourself. Aren''t you worried I might reveal your little secrets and embarrass you?"


    With Julia, he had no intention of giving any heartfelt advice. He just wanted to give her a gentle nudge. if she had juste clean early on, maybe by the end, he would be lenient, so she would not end up like Ja scoffed. "What secrets could I possibly have for you to catch?Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    in her mind, not even the court could touch her, so what could Walter do?


    $


    if it was not for the fact she still cared about Walter, hoping he woulde back to her, to live a blissfully shameless life together, she would not even bother to see his face!


    Remember the pile-up on Dannington Road? Waiter asked, speaking slowly. His lips curved, but it was a smile without any warmth


    His dark eyes were deep and full of menace. Yeah, just thinking about that crash, which almost took Evangeline and their child away from him, made him wish the woman in front of him would just disappear

 526

    Chapter 526


    "Is that so?" Julia sneered, her eyes gleaming with a sharp light. "Well, if that''s how it is, then we''ve got nothing more to say. You''ll never get any information out of me unless you make me Mrs. Gordon.... The conversation had hit a dead end.


    Julia gritted her teeth in frustration.


    It was all Evangeline''s fault, that sly fox! If she had not constantly been flirting with Walter, how could her darling Walt have a change of heart? Julia was determined to make her suffer!


    Last time, Evangeline got lucky. The n her mom set up to have Evangeline hit on the highway failed, and now even her mom was caught up in it.


    This time, she was determined to make sure Evangeline would not escape!


    Rage burned in Julia''s eyes, but as she looked up, she locked eyes with Walter''s intense stare.


    He stood with arms crossed, his dark eyes boring into her.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She knew that look all too well. In the past, every time Julia showed up in his line of sight, she would receive that look


    Eventually, it was a gaze special only toward her.


    However, ever since Evangeline announced she wanted a divorce from Walter on that cruise night, everything changed....


    "Julia, do you really want to be Mrs. Gordon?"


    Walter chuckled lightly.


    Internally, he was mocking the woman in front of him for being so full of herself. Did she think Walter was some kind of dump? Where any stray could just walk in?


    "You''re so sure of yourself. Aren''t you worried I might reveal your little secrets and embarrass you?" With Julia, he had no intention of giving any heartfelt advice. He just wanted to give her a gentle nudge. If she had juste clean early on, maybe by the end, he would be lenient, so she would not end up like


    her parents...


    Julia scoffed. "What secrets could I possibly have for you to catch?"


    In her mind, not even the court could touch her, so what could Walter do?


    If it was not for the fact she still cared about Walter, hoping he woulde back to her, to live a blissfully shameless life together, she would not even bother to see his face!


    *Remember the pile-up on Dannington Road?" Walter asked, speaking slowly. His lips curved, but it was a smile without any warmth.


    His dark eyes were deep and full of menace. Yeah, just thinking about that crash, which almost took Evangeline and their child away from him, made him wish the woman in front of him would just disappear.


    "Of course I remember. It was a terrible ident-a lot of people died," said Julia confidently. She knew she had nothing to do with it, so even if Walter asked her about it, she felt no guilt.


    Walter was not in a rush, though. "As long as it wasn''t your doing, that''s good. Otherwise..." He nced at the courthouse''s stern emblem." You fought hard to get out, but if you go back in, there''s no guarantee you''lle out again..."


    The message was clear, and Julia, being smart, understood. Even though she did not set up the ident, her people were involved. If the truth''came out, it would be bad for her and those above her.


    Regardless, she was sure her men covered their tracks perfectly, so Walter''s threats did not scare her.

 527

    Chapter 527


    I''m out now because of myself, but whether I go back in is up to you," Julia said, raising an eyebrow at Walter. She then quickly added, "Walt, even though you''ve turned against me, my heart still belongs to you. I hope we can clear up our misunderstanding soon and be happy together again, like before..." She med Evangeline for everything. Without her, Walter would still be hers! All she needed was to get rid of Evangeline and her unborn child, and then Walter would be herspletely!


    Just thinking about Walter bing hers one day excited her.


    "Sure, I''m looking forward to it too," said Walter naturally, watching Julia step out of the car.


    Julia had Walter hooked, no doubt about it. He was dying to know how long she could keep her lips sealed


    As Julia walked away, Walter took out his phone. "Keep tabs on Julia around the clock. I want to know everything she does!"


    Confronting Julia like this meant he was burning bridges, and he did it on purpose. Even though he knew Julia still had feelings for him, he could not keep charming her. Evangeline was expecting their baby, and Walter, knowing he was not husband-of-the-year material, just wanted to be a good father.


    "Yes, sir," David replied, picking up on the anger in Walter''s voice and not daring to say more than


    necessary.


    "How''s it going on your end?"


    David had been through thick and thin with Walter for years, yet he was still single. Walter sent him on this mission not only to dig up information but also in hopes he would find someone special.


    David nced at a woman discussing beauty ns with a client. Hmm...


    "No progress yet," he said confidently, though he hid his doubts. Since Walter started suspecting Julia, Sunny Glow Beauty Salon became the next lead to follow. David''s career shifted from Gordon Group''s high rise to the salon, and he could not be happier. Chasing a potential love interest on thepany''s dime, with his superior''s blessing? Talk about being lucky!


    David silently thanked his matchmaking boss. If he ended up winning his dream girl, he would owe Walter big time.


    Hanging up, David sprawled on the sofa and sipped his coffee, attracting the curiosity of a nearby


    customer.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    The customer eyed him suspiciously and asked, "Ms. Morris, didn''t you say Sunny Glow Beauty Salon is just for women? Then who''s this guy?"


    Celina, one of the staff, tried to keep her professional smile from slipping, forced to lie to the customer.


    "Sorry, this gentleman is here with his girlfriend. Since they came together,

 528

    Chapter 528Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    The female customer looked at David, her eyes practically twinkling with envy and admiration, and said," Being his girlfriend must be pretty awesome."


    Celina did not know how to respond, so she gently suggested, "We have some equipment inside for your service. Would you like a tour?"


    Sunny Glow Beauty Salon''s membership card was not cheap-it ran into the tens of thousands. Thus, she had to make sure every customer was happy.


    "No need, I trust you. We can talk here," the customer replied quickly, though her eyes kept drifting over to David. David did not seem to mind the attention, in fact. The more she looked, the more he showed off his considerate side, even pretending to call his girlfriend regrly. He was downright unbothered, simply


    put.


    Stuck between these two, Celina was having a tough time. Did they have to do this right when the customer was about to spend big? She was annoyed with David''s antics but could not say anything


    Finally, after the customer spent 300000 at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, she reluctantly left with Celina seeing her off. Once the salon door closed, Celina''s friendly smille vanished, especially when she looked at David, her whole attitude turning icy. "David, could you please stop already?"


    Ever since she identally let her guard down and this guytched onto Sunny Glow Beauty Salon like a stubborn leech, she could not get rid of him. Exining David''s presence to customers was nothing new for Celina, but seeing a female customer so obviously smitten with him? That was a first


    "What did I do wrong?" David asked innocently, blinking at Celina as if he had no clue. "I wasn''t bothering you while you handled clients, right? I didn''t contradict anything you said. I just sat quietly in the lobby with my coffee. Isn''t that fine?" He sounded so pitiful, almost ready to pout and cry right there.


    The young receptionist and her friends, already used to David''s antics, decided to help him out. "Hey, we''re going to grab some milk tea across the street. What vor do you want? Should we bring one back for you?"


    Celina took a deep breath, unsure of what to say. Her young staff were in the prime of their love for gossip, and David''s behavior was so tant they all thought he was trying to woo her. Whenever the salon was free of customers, they would find excuses to leave Celina and David alone.


    In a regr shop, Celina would never allow her employees to leave during work hours, but she had a rxed management style. As long as business was not affected, she was flexible.


    "No need," Celina said, checking the appointment book "You don''t have toe back. Just pack up and head home."


    With that, the girls left, casting knowing looks at David as they went.

 529

    Chapter 529


    With only Celina and David left in the Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, David felt a bit uneasy. Usually, he was the one trying to date Celina, never getting a chance for a one-on-one moment like this. Something felt off. He put down his coffee cup, stood up, and said, "Since you''re off duty, I guess I''ll head out too?"


    Of course, he knew he should not just leave.


    Even if he was going to leave, David thought he should use this chance when they were alone to make a move and see where things could go with Celina. However, Celina was introverted and calm, and David just could not quite figure her out yet. Not wanting to risk messing things up, he decided it was best to exit.


    To his surprise, Celina darted to the door, her slender frame blocking his way. Right before David''s eyes, she pressed the button to close the rolling shutter. The door rumbled shut, and David felt a chill run down his spine. "What are you doing?" he asked.


    Celina was known for her fierce temper, and locking herself in the beauty salon with him could not mean anything good.


    "Have a guess," she replied.


    The door clicked shut, and the sensor lights flicked on as Celina, in her high heels, walked confidently up


    to him.


    She was not doing this because she wanted anything to do with this troublemaker.


    It just hit her, when the other girls took a break, that she was fed up with being harassed every day and the knowing looks from her coworkers.


    So, she decided to keep David in the salon to set things straight.


    "I''m not guessing," said David, trying to act tough. Seeing Celina, the woman he liked, standing right there emboldened him slightly.


    He was really only worried that Celina might blow up and tell him he was banned from Sunny Glow Beauty Salon forever.


    She was in charge here, and if she called the cops, he would have no chance of returning.


    "Fine, let''s not waste time," said Celina, cutting to the chase. "Mr. Zimmer, your presence has seriously -hurt our business and reputation, so please don''te here anymore." David did not like being called ''Mr. Zimmer'', but he knew he had been the one hanging around Celina without much from her side. This seemed like a good chance to say something. "Alright, I promise, Mr. Zimmer won''t being back." He said it so easily that Celina shot him a surprised look.


    Was this really David speaking?


    "Are you sure?" she asked.


    "I''m sure," he replied. "Mr. Zimmer won''t be back, but David will stille around."Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Celina could not help but smirk a little.


    She knew it. There was no way he would agree so easily.


    "Are you deaf or something? Sunny Glow Beauty Salon doesn''t want you around, and neither do I!" She was so exasperated that her hands were iling.


    David, quick on his feet, snagged Celina''s hand and gave her this intense look. "Celina, if I were just David, would you let me in?" His eyes were like deep, dark pools, and Celina barely nced before she looked away.


    "Come on, answer me, Celina. You know what I''m getting at..."

 530

    Since there were no other options, Julia had no choice but to find her subordinate, Celina.


    "Alright, I''m at the beauty salon right now. Do you want toe pick up the keys, or should I bring them to you?"


    Celina already knew about Julia''s release without charge. Though she was stuck in a mess, she did not want to stoop to their level. Holding onto the hope of staying as far away as possible, she continued running her beauty salon with the same care as always.


    ''Come over. You can give me a ride too. Oh, and tomorrow, arrange a car for me. It''s too inconvenient


    without one."


    Celina could only agree to Julia''s orders.


    However, the thought of doing something she was unwilling to do sent a sharp pain through her stomach, the ache growing worse by the second.


    After hanging up, she clutched her stomach and painfully made her way out of the treatment room, only to find David still standing there. "Why haven''t you left yet?"


    David was too focused on her pale face and the way she was holding her stomach: In a sh, he rushed over. "Celina, what''s wrong?" He was evidently worried as he gently helped her onto the sofa.


    "I''m fine, just an old issue. David, you should go." Barely seated on the sofa, Celina hurriedly tried to send him away.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Julia could arrive at any moment. If she saw Celina and David this close, it would only cause trouble for both of them.


    "But you..." David looked at her, deeply concerned. "Let me take you to the hospital. I can''t leave you like this."


    Celina weakly raised her hand and pointed toward the reception desk. "There''s medicine in the drawer. I''ll feel better after taking it."


    She had a stomach condition, something she had developed while studying abroad. That was why she always kept medication on hand, no matter where she went.


    #


    David quickly fetched the medicine and watched her take it.


    "Thank you, but you should go now."


    Celina did not want to take the risk of Julia showing up. It would be like standing next to a ticking time bomb. The consequences of being caught were more than she could bear. ""What about us..."


    David was not stupid.


    Chapter 5/21


    After taking that phone call, Celina hadpletely changed. Every word out of her mouth urged him to leave as soon as possible.


    Clearly, something was going on.


    However, he had finally gotten a chance to express his feelings. How could he just walk away?


    Celina sighed as she spoke, "Let me think about it."


    If this only involved the two of them, no matter what the oue, she would have thrown caution to the wind and taken a chance. However, her actions involved more than just herself... In the Emerald of the Hignds Vi.


    Evangeline tossed and turned in bed, unable to sleep for hours.


    Her baby, who had just started to move, was actively moving. No matter how much she tried to soothe the child, nothing seemed to work.


    A pale smile tugged at the corners of Evangeline''s lips.


    Andrew and Lydia would be executede morning light. Her heart could not find peace.


    Her baby must have been feeling her stress, which was why it was moving so much, right?


    Whenever she thought of Andrew, her emotions became even moreplicated.


    She could not deny that she hated him.


    She hated how he had conspired with a mistress to kill his wife, leaving her motherless from a young age. She hated how he favored Julia andpletely ignored her, the orphaned daughter, leaving her without a shred of fatherly love. She even felt that her mother had been wronged.

 531

    Chapter 531


    Since there were no other options, Julia had no choice but to find her subordinate, Celina.


    "Alright, I''m at the beauty salon right now. Do you want toe pick up the keys, or should I bring them to you?"


    Celina already knew about Julia''s release without charge. Though she was stuck in a mess, she did not want to stoop to their level. Holding onto the hope of staying as far away as possible, she continued running her beauty salon with the same care as always.


    ''Come over. You can give me a ride too. Oh, and tomorrow, arrange a car for me. It''s too inconvenient


    without one."


    Celina could only agree to Julia''s orders.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    However, the thought of doing something she was unwilling to do sent a sharp pain through her stomach, the ache growing worse by the second. After hanging up, she clutched her stomach and painfully made her way out of the treatment room, only to find David still standing there. "Why haven''t you left yet?"


    David was too focused on her pale face and the way she was holding her stomach: In a sh, he rushed over. "Celina, what''s wrong?" He was evidently worried as he gently helped her onto the sofa.


    "I''m fine, just an old issue. David, you should go." Barely seated on the sofa, Celina hurriedly tried to send him away.


    Julia could arrive at any moment. If she saw Celina and David this close, it would only cause trouble for both of them.


    "But you..." David looked at her, deeply concerned. "Let me take you to the hospital. I can''t leave you like this."


    Celina weakly raised her hand and pointed toward the reception desk. "There''s medicine in the drawer. I''ll feel better after taking it."


    She had a stomach condition, something she had developed while studying abroad. That was why she always kept medication on hand, no matter where she went.


    #


    David quickly fetched the medicine and watched her take it.


    "Thank you, but you should go now."


    Celina did not want to take the risk of Julia showing up. It would be like standing next to a ticking time bomb. The consequences of being caught were more than she could bear. ""What about us..."


    David was not stupid.


    Chapter 5/21


    After taking that phone call, Celina hadpletely changed. Every word out of her mouth urged him to leave as soon as possible.


    Clearly, something was going on.


    However, he had finally gotten a chance to express his feelings. How could he just walk away?


    Celina sighed as she spoke, "Let me think about it."


    If this only involved the two of them, no matter what the oue, she would have thrown caution to the wind and taken a chance. However, her actions involved more than just herself... In the Emerald of the Hignds Vi.


    Evangeline tossed and turned in bed, unable to sleep for hours.


    Her baby, who had just started to move, was actively moving. No matter how much she tried to soothe the child, nothing seemed to work.


    A pale smile tugged at the corners of Evangeline''s lips.


    Andrew and Lydia would be executede morning light. Her heart could not find peace.


    Her baby must have been feeling her stress, which was why it was moving so much, right?


    Whenever she thought of Andrew, her emotions became even moreplicated.


    She could not deny that she hated him.


    She hated how he had conspired with a mistress to kill his wife, leaving her motherless from a young age. She hated how he favored Julia andpletely ignored her, the orphaned daughter, leaving her without a shred of fatherly love. She even felt that her mother had been wronged.

 532

    Chapter 532


    Evangeline''s memories of Yessica were hazy, but from the photographs, it was clear how beautiful and graceful her mother had been. How could someone so wonderful have borne a child for Andrew?


    The more Evangeline thought about it, the more hatred festered inside her, as if her heart were plunging into an endless abyss.


    In the darkness of her mind, she saw the image of the judge sentencing Andrew to death.


    Andrew... Was he really about to die?


    What a conflict of emotions.


    Andrew was the man who had caused his wife''s death and dragged her into such misery. He was finally facing punishment, but she felt pity for him. Was this the bond of blood?


    Evangeline''s mind went nk, her hollow heart unsure of what to think or feel.


    Images of the few moments of fatherly love Andrew had ever shown her began to surface, and she could not stop herself from softening.


    She even thought, was there anything she could do to save Andrew from death...?


    *As for Lydia, she had never been a consideration.


    What Evangeline did not know was that while she tossed and turned, Julieta had been


    keeping watch outside her door.


    A pregnant woman''s emotions were naturally sensitive, and Evangeline, already vulnerable, had encountered this cmity while carrying a child.


    The punishment of a wicked man was only just, but what had Evangeline, the one delivering the punishment, done to deserve this pain?Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Out of concern for Evangeline, Julieta had left the door slightly ajar when she stepped outside. The sound of Evangeline turning in bed echoed in her ears. Finally, Julieta could not hold back any longer.


    She knocked gently on the door, lowering her voice considerately. "Miss, are you awake?"


    Evangeline had just turned over when the voice startled her and her mind fell into a sudden panic. She answered without thinking, "I''m asleep..." The moment she spoke, Evangeline regretted it.


    The next second, Julieta quietly entered the room, making sure to close the door behind her.


    *Miss, I can''t sleep. Why don''t we chat for a while?"


    Julieta, always so understanding, did not dwell on the fact that Evangeline had just lied to her. Here she


    was, nearing midnight, acting like a caring aunt,ing to keep Evangelinepany.


    "Sure... Sure."


    Evangeline sat up and, seeing the dark circles under Julieta''s eyes, was suddenly overwhelmed with emotion, barely able to form coherent words. Julieta naturally ced a pillow behind her back to make her sit morefortably.


    "Mrs. Lewis, are you thinking of your children? Is that why you can''t sleep?"


    To Evangeline, Julieta had always been like a mother. From her, Evangeline had felt the warmth of maternal love. Of course, Julieta had children of her own, and that was a fact. 1 "Yes, I miss them very much." Julieta''s gaze drifted, as if, in some distant, ethereal world, she could already see her children living happy lives.


    Her gaze returned to Evangeline. "Miss, you can''t sleep either, can you?"


    Being seen through like that was unsettling. Meeting Julieta''s eyes, Evangeline felt nervous and uneasy. "I ... I''m fine, I''ve probably just slept too much."


    She hated Andrew, but her restless nights because of him were something she could not put into words.


    "I''ll fall asleep soon."


    "Blood ties are a bond that can never be severed in this world. Miss, it''s perfectly natural that you can''t sleep because of your father. There''s nothing to hide." Especially in Evangeline''s case-it was as though she were personally sending her father to the execution ground. The burden on her heart could only be heavier.

 533

    The day of execution was in mere hows ow.cow Vine falsamy doring such sense time?


    "Mrs. Lewis!


    Evangeline choked up, her eyes brimming


    bod


    you that had been seated up in Her hest


    were finally released, like a dem that hud bower open, Boding one


    Tears streamed down her cheeks as she pushed duiweggewy do porthink fie made a mistakeContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Her mother had died unjustly, and she was des jew fy her Svetice had seen served a longst, yet she was about to send her own father to the gullkne


    On one side was her mother, on the other, her father How could she choses in a way that would leave her with no regrets?


    Seeing Evangeline break down, Julists could not hato be feat moved. She gently pulled Evangeline into


    her arms.


    "Miss, this isn''t your fault. People reap what they sow. Even if you had''s intervened, believe Mr. Pearden would''ve still ended up on this path, it was only a matter of the


    Julieta''s words were like a beacon of light, illuminating the dark world that Evangeline was trapped in


    She was right. Even if she had kept Andrew''s crimes hidden out of familial loyalty, how could he uncles possibly let him go?


    Andrew was her father, but Yessica was their younger sider, too


    Even 50


    "But I''m the one who sent him..."


    "So what if you were the one? If Mr. Pearden hadn''t chosen to conspire with his mistress to murder your mother, wouldn''t you now have both your parents alive, and the love of your grandparents and uncles? That would''ve been such a blissful life, wouldn''t it? In the end, he caused you to suffer. If you''re still grieving over his death, aren''t you punishing yourself for his mistakes?


    Julieta''s words were sharp and to the point, every sentence fitting home. No matter how she looked at it, the grudges of the previous generation were beyond her control. Whatever the oue, she could only wait for it to unfold,


    After venting her emotions with Julieta, Evangeline felt much better. However, the fatigue of her pregnancy eventually caught up with her, and after drinking a ss of milk, she slowly drifted off to sleep


    Due to the unique circumstances surrounding death row prisoners, it was customary to allow them a final meeting with their families before execution, as a humanitarian gesture.


    The person Andrew wanted to see most in prison was Julia, but instead, Evangeline came to see him.


    Through therge ss partition, Andrew reluctantly picked up the phone, starting with a bitter usation.


    "You sent your father to his death, Evangeline. Are you happy now?"


    $25 BONUS


    Evangeline had anticipated this reaction. Still, knowing that this man was about to disappear from her life forever, she could not bear the thought of not seeing him onest time. Her hand unconsciously touched her belly, and as if encouraged by the baby, she finally found the courage to speak.


    "What''s there to be happy about? If you and Lydia didn''t kill my mother, would I be in this situation today? You brought this suffering upon me. What right do you have to question me now?"


    Despite her icy words, Evangeline''s eyes suddenly reddened, caught off-guard by the pang of familial love.


    Outside the visitation room, Walter had been waiting anxiously, Hearing Evangeline''s voice, he thought something was wrong and rushed inside, only to find her with red, swollen eyes. He quickly walked to her side but did not even dare to touch her.


    At that moment, Evangeline''s face was pale, her eyes bloodshot, like a fragile soap bubble that would shatter with the slightest touch..


    He stood there, watching her, too afraid to move an inch.


    3

 534

    Chapter 534


    "Hah! Alright, then. You truly are something else, Evangeline!*Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Andrew''s condescending attitude was met with a sharp rebuttal. He was furious, but since Evangeline''s words were reasonable, he could only hold his anger,


    Looking at her father, Evangeline felt thest sliver of hope for him vanishpletely. She wiped away the tears that had unknowingly fallen from her eyes, cleared her throat, and asked, "Has Juliae to see you?"


    She knew, from childhood until now, Andrew''s favorite daughter had always been Julia, Surely, in his final moments, the one he thought of the most would be her


    Unexpectedly, the mention of Julia touched thest soft spot in Andrew''s heart. His once arrogant face instantly grew despondent. He did not say a word, but that reaction alone was enough for Evangeline to know the answer. Julia would note to see him, even in his dying moments.


    Was this the daughter he had cherished and protected until the very end?


    Evangeline could not quite describe the feeling in her heart. She wanted to hang up the phone and flee this suffocating ce as quickly as possible, but before she could...


    "Evangeline, I know I''ve wronged you all these years, but still... Julia is still your younger sister!


    "People say kind words when death is near. Julia made plenty of foolish mistakes in the past, but your Aunt Lydia and I have paid the price for them. Let the past be the past, okay?


    "From now on, you two sisters should take care of each other.... rely on each other to survive..."


    As he spoke, Andrew''s face was soaked with tears, and his voice trembled uncontrobly. Rely on each other to survive?


    Evangeline suddenly recalled her childhood. When Julia first came to their family, she was adorable. Small and innocent, she arrived just as Evangeline had taken on the role of being an older sister, so naturally, she doted on her in every possible way. However, over time, the constant maniption and favoritism from Andrew and Lydia drove a wedge between the sisters. Julia''s gaze grew increasingly resentful, and the unequal treatment between them allowed Julia to gain the upper hand, leading to the current situation.


    So, who was truly to me for all of this? At this point, it did not matter anymore.


    "If Julia behaves herself from now on and stops pushing her luck, I won''t hold it against her."


    No matter what, Andrew was her biological father. Since he had made a final request before his death, she would see it through to the end for his sake. Of course, that would be the extent of it.


    She had already severed ties with Walter. After the baby was born, they would no longer have any connection..


    If Julia liked Walter, she could pursue him all she wanted. If, after Evangeline had stepped back this


    much, Julia still caused trouble, then her patience would run out.


    Andrew clearly understood the meaning behind her words.


    "Actually, Julia only likes..."


    His gaze fell on Walter, who had been silently present the entire time. "She only likes Walter. If you could..."


    Perhaps realizing the inappropriateness of finishing that sentence, he quickly swallowed the rest of his words and added, "She definitely won''t bother you anymore."


    Evangeline fully understood what Andrew meant, but all she felt was a deep, bone-chilling pain.


    Even at this moment, Andrew was thinking of persuading her to give up Walter so that Julia could be happy.


    "Let''s leave it to fate," she said.


    Though she had already resolved to part ways with Walter, hearing her father say this still pierced her heart.


    Why should she give up so easily? Why should she have to give up at all?


    There was nothing more to say between father and daughter.


    Evangeline hung up the phone. As she turned to leave, she saw Walter standing silently behind her, watching her. Chapter 535

 535

    Chapter 535


    ""When did youe in?"


    Evangeline had been so engrossed in her conversation with Andrew that she had not even noticed Walter entering the room.


    This was an important day, and Evangeline had nned to face it alone. She had not expected Walter to show up so early and insist on entering the room with her.


    Evangeline had tly refused, but he reminded her that they had not divorced yet, and he was still technically Andrew''s son-inw. Reluctantly, she had to let hime in with her.


    When she began speaking to Andrew, Walter had waited outside.


    Walter''s dark eyes narrowed. "I just came in a moment ago. I saw you talking with Andrew and didn''t want to interrupt. Visiting hours are over now. We should leave." He reached out his arm to help her out. "Alright, thank you," Evangeline replied coolly, her steps quickening to move past him, avoiding his arm entirely as she walked out of the visitation room.


    She left Andrew and Walter behind, staring at each other.


    Almost involuntarily, Walter sat where Evangeline had been seated earlier and picked up the phone.


    Andrew, who had not yet put down his own receiver, instinctively tightened his grip, his eyes full of emotion as he looked at Walter. "Walter, I''ll be gone soon. Please, take good care of Julia, will you?" 4 Walter frowned.


    As they spoke through the phone, he had not been able to hear what Andrew and Evangeline had discussed earlier. The only reason he had picked up the phone was to say goodbye to his father-inw. This was what he heard?Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    He must have heard wrong, right?


    "Rest assured, I''ll take good care of Evangeline."


    Andrew shook his head vigorously. "No, Evangeline has her grandfather and uncles to look after her. I''m not worried about her at all. But my Julia... Now that her mother and I are dying, Evangeline is her only remaining family in this world. Walter, I know Julia loves you. "How about this-why don''t you and Evangeline separate and take care of Julia instead? Please, I''m begging you! If no one takes care of Julia, I won''t be able to rest in peace, even after I''m gone!"


    Walter stared at the man before him, utterly stunned, unable to believe what he was hearing.


    Was this man really Evangeline''s biological father? How could he make such a request on his deathbed?


    "Do you even know that Evangeline is pregnant with my child? You''re about to be a grandfather! How could I abandon Evangeline at a time like this? Besides..."


    He loved Evangeline deeply. How could he leave the woman he cherished to suffer alone?


    "Why can''t you?"


    425 BONUS


    Before Walter could finish, Andrew interrupted him, "Evangeline will have another family member when the baby is born! My Julia is the one who''s truly pitiful! Walter, will you promise me? You''ve always doted on our Julia, haven''t you?" Andrew''s pleading voice continued through the receiver, but Walter set the phone down.


    He could not listen to any more of it.


    At this point, he was starting to doubt whether Evangeline was really Andrew''s biological daughter. How could someone show such tant favoritism between their own children?


    As for that Julia, well... If it were not for the fact that she had nearly lost her life saving him once, Walter would not have paid her any attention at all, let alone spoiled her.


    Outside the visitation room, Evangeline held her stomach as she stepped out, immediately spotting David, who had been waiting there the entire time.


    Before he could say anything, she spoke, "Your boss is still inside. You can wait out here."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 536

    Chapter 536


    David knew how important Evangeline was, so he immediately rushed after her. "Ma''am, don''t you want to wait for Mr. Gordon? He should be back soon."


    After all, Andrew had no real connection with Walter. What could a son-inw and father-inw have so


    much to talk about?


    However, Evangeline was thinking about something else entirely.


    Before his death, Andrew had repeatedly urged her to give Walter to Julia. Since he finally had the chance to speak with Walter, how could he not want to say it directly to the main person involved?


    No, they''ll probably have a lot to talk about. I need to head over to Sunny Glow Beauty Salon for a facial, so I''ll go now


    Evangeline smiled meaningfully, no longer paying attention to David, and walked away without a second thought Sunny Glow Beauty Salon?


    "Ma''am, didn''t Mr. Gordon say he wanted you to go somewhere else for your facial?" asked David in confusion. He could not figure out what Celina was thinking, and since Celina was likely Julia''s ally, if Julia wanted to harm Evangeline, there was no way he could prevent it.


    "I''ll go wherever I want. Does he think he can control me?" Evangeline sneered and left without hesitation.


    Of course, she knew Sunny Glow Beauty Salon was Julia and Lydia''s base of operations, and with Celina as the director, how could the ce be clean?


    Going there alone was like walking into a trap, but she had no choice.


    The pile-up on the Danyang highway had caused too many casualties, and the police were still investigating the case.


    In such a high-profile case, it was unlikely that the Foster family would interfere.


    However, both of her uncles suspected that the ident was aimed at Evangeline, so they had been keeping an eye on any rted news. All the clues pointed to Sunny Glow Beauty Salon.


    A mysterious person named ''Beck had sold Evangeline''s travel information to Julia and Lydia for 300000 bucks. This made it highly likely that the mother and daughter had nned the ident.


    The only w in this theory was that they did not have the financial or logistical resources to cause such an ident.


    However, with the help of Celina and her salon, it might not be impossible. After all, the clients of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon were all wealthy and powerful, and a single visit could easily cost tens of thousands. To find out the truth, she had to go there again.


    A shy red Maserati was parked on the side of the road. Evangeline sat inside, staring at the familiar sign of the salon. She pulled out her phone and dialed a number.


    "Is everything ready?"


    "Yes, Miss. We''ve already ced our people, but the master is very worried about your safety. Should we perhaps send ady inside instead?" the bodyguard stammered.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    "No need, the situation is urgent. Don''t waste time."


    Evangeline''s voice was firm. "I''m heading in now."


    She understood Yale''s protective instinct toward her.


    However, in this situation, she had a VIP card at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, so only she could enter under the guise of receiving services. It was the most logical and least suspicious way to gather information. After hanging up the phone, Evangeline opened the car door and, supporting her belly, gracefully walked into the salon.


    The receptionist, as beautiful as ever, immediately smiled and approached her upon seeing her. "Is this your first visit, madam? We specialize in skincare for pregnant women here. Would you like me to introduce our products to you?"

 Once Shy Forever 537

    Evangeline elegantly waved the VIP card in her hand, her smile poised and graceful.


    The receptionist immediately covered her mouth in embarrassment. "I''m terribly sorry."


    "It''s fine. Since I haven''t been here since I got the card, it''s only natural that you wouldn''t recognize me," Evangeline reassured her, offering the receptionist an excuse.


    In truth, at a high-end salon like this, failing to remember clients and not providing them with a wless experience was a significant oversight. Of course, Evangeline was not really concerned about this, so she did not mind how the receptionist behaved. The receptionist gave a grateful smile and quickly took the VIP card from Evangeline''s hand, gesturing for her to follow. "Please,e with me."


    When the card was swiped, the machine gave a soft ''ding'', and Evangeline''s name appeared on the


    screen.


    The receptionist enthusiastically continued her pitch about theirtest products.


    "Ma''am, I see that the service you purchasedst time was the hydrating skincare package. While it''s suitable for pregnant women, it''s not as effective as our newlyunched products specifically designed for pregnancy..."


    The receptionist went an excitedly, but Evangeline did not hear a word. Her attention wandered as she nced around the hall.


    Then, she spotted a tall figure walking down the hallway leading to the treatment rooms.


    When Celina saw Evangeline standing at the reception with her pregnant belly, a hint of surprise shed across her eyes, but she quickly regained herposure. Approaching Evangeline swiftly, Celina greeted her with a signature smile. "Ms. Rearden, it''s been a long


    time."


    Evangeline nodded slightly. "Yes, it really has."Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Celina''s gaze shifted to Evangeline''s rounded belly. She turned to the receptionist and said, "I''ll be personally attending to Ms. Rearden."


    "Oh, okay. I was just pulling up Ms. Rearden''s file, but I haven''t registered her visit yet."


    The receptionist left quickly, leaving Celina to take over. She did not even touch the mouse, simply removed the VIP card from the reader. "Ms. Rearden, please follow me."


    Once inside the treatment room, Celina was attentive and thorough, helping Evangeline lie down on the beauty bed.


    She skillfully put on her beauty gloves, but just as she was about to touch Evangeline''s face, she was stopped.


    "Ms. Morris, aren''t you going to ask me what service I want? I''m pregnant now-won''t the previous


    treatments affect the baby?"


    Evangeline stretched outzily on the bed.


    "If you were really worried about it affecting your baby, you wouldn''t havee here at all."


    Celina raised an eyebrow. "Am I right, Ms. Rearden?"


    Her superior, Julia, considered Evangeline an eyesore, so how could Celina not recognize her?


    With the powerful status of the Foster family in Avalon City, it was clear that someone was secretly targeting Evangeline.


    Yet here she was,ing to this salon in such dangerous times, simply for a facial!


    Celina could not help but admire Evangeline''s bravery, knowing full well the risks.


    Evangeline sighed softly. "Have you ever thought that maybe I came here because I trust you wouldn''t harm my child, and that''s why I sought you out for this facial?" She could clearly hear the double meaning behind Celina''s words.


    Fate was indeed strange. From the moment Evangeline first saw Celina, she had liked her, despite knowing that this woman was likely involved with Julia. Chapter 538

 538

    Chapter 538


    Little did she know, Celina found Evangeline''s sudden trust in her unbelievable.


    "Ms. Rearden, do you... really trust me?"


    After all, she was on Julia''s side. She knew all too well what Julia had nned for Evangeline next.


    "Of course. A woman''s face is half her life. I''ve entrusted you with half my life, so how could it not trust you?" replied Evangeline with a gentle smile.


    Between life and death, she handed herself over to Celina with such ease.


    Celina was a gentle and kind-hearted person. Evangeline had once seen her carefully tending to the water lilies in her beauty salon. A woman who was so patient with nts, treating them like children, could never be the type to intentionally harm others. So, she chose to trust her.


    to I


    "Well, I''m truly honored," Celina smiled. "Since you trust me so much, leave your face entire seContent from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    your skin is a bit dull; let me try out a new product from our salon on you..."


    Gently taking Evangeline''s hand, Celina carefully began her work.


    When the facial treatment was over, as Evangeline got up, she noticed a drop of lotion still left on her face. Celina was a very professional beautician-how could she make such a careless mistake?


    Just as Evangeline was frozen in surprise, Celina quickly apologized, "I''m so sorry, I got a bit distracted Let me wipe it off for you."


    Celina removed her gloves, pulled a handkerchief from her pocket, and handed it to Evangeline.


    "It''s no problem," said Evangeline as she took the handkerchief and wiped the lotion off her face.


    Throughout the treatment, Evangeline had been focused on Celina. She noticed that Celina seemed troubled, often spacing out, as if something was weighing on her mind.


    "Ms. Morris, is something bothering you?"


    Given Celina''s professionalism, such a situation was unthinkable.


    "No." Celina suddenly looked at Evangeline with a serious and cold expression. "Ms. Rearden, may I ask you something?


    "Would you ever hurt someone who trusted you unconditionally?"


    Evangeline answered without hesitation, "If someone trusts you, why would you hurt them?"


    Celina pressed further, "But what if not hurting them meant someone else would hurt their familly instead?"


    "That... sounds like a dilemma." Evangeline pondered for a moment before replying, "If friends have differing views to the point of harming each other''s family, it shows that they aren''t true friends. It''s better to distance yourself from such people." Evangeline was not foolish. She understood the hidden meaning behind Celina''s words. Although she had not asked about Celina''s connection to Julia, she could sense that someone was influencing her, and


    Celina did not fully agree with them.


    Her response was meant to remind Celina that a wise bird would choose the right tree to nest in. There was no need to keep working for the wrong people.


    As Evangeline finished wiping her face with the handkerchief, she said, "Thanks for the handkerchief. You could''ve just used a tissue."


    Celina smiled warmly. "No worries. Consider it a token of appreciation for helping me clear my thoughts."


    A token of appreciation? A handkerchief?


    Back in her car, Evangeline found herself puzzled. Her mind kept reying the strange look Celina had when she handed her the handkerchief. Could there be some secret hidden within it?


    Sitting in the car, she examined the handkerchief over and over. Other than a needle-like design embroidered in the center, it was just a fine-quality handkerchief, soft and smooth to the touch, but nothing special.

 539

    Chapter 529


    What Evangeline did not know was that just as she walked out of the salon, Celina sent David a message


    [Are you outside?)


    Following Walter''s orders, David secretly watched over Evangeline untill he personally saw her retum to the vi at the Emerald of the Hignds,


    So, when he found out that Evangeline hade to the salon for a facial, the followed her there. He was a regr at the salon, and he trusted that Celina would recognize his car and would not do anything to Evangeline, Relieved, he quietly waited outside.


    Just as his attention was focused on Evangeline, who was about to walk out of the salon, his phone pinged with a new message. Instinctively, he nced at the screen


    When he saw that it was from Celina, he was overwhelmed with excitement.


    He replied, [Yes]


    It was the first time Celina had ever sent him a message, and David''s fingers trembled happily


    He was not expecting her next message toe so soon.


    [Do you remember the gift I gave you when we first met?


    By this time, Evangeline had already gotten into her car. David instructed the driver to start the engine and follow her, while he continued replying to Celina.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He typed back, [Of course. It was a silver needle.]


    The uniqueness of that gift had left David in a difficult position. He wanted to carry it with him but feared it might hurt him, so he bought a small, delicate box to store it.


    He expected Celina to reply quickly, but after waiting and waiting, there was no further message from her.


    Finally, he gave up and shifted his focus back to Evangeline''s car.


    His task was of utmost importance. If he did not have to watch over Evangeline, he would have stormed into the beauty salon to confront Celina about what she meant by suddenly bringing up the token of affection'' and then going silent. Was she ying games with him? While David was lost in thought, the driver suddenly mmed on the brakes, making him furious.


    "I told you to follow her car! Why did you stop?" David shouted.


    The driver''s face turned pale with fear as he quickly exined, "Madam''s car suddenly made a turn. It''s not heading toward the Emerald of the Hignds. I think she might''ve realized we were following her!"


    Just then, the shy red Maserati turned around and pulled up right next to David''s car.


    "Mr. Zimmer; what a coincidence," said Evangeline with a meaningful smile, her eyes curving into a sly expression. Chapter 539


    4259


    "It sure is," David forced a couple of awkwardughs, not knowing what else to say. After all, he had been the one following her, and he had been caught red-handed... Evangeline did not care about his awkwardness.


    "Mr. Zimmer, I know how to get home. You don''t need to trouble yourself leading the way, Safe travels," she said with a polite smile, though her tone suggested otherwise, Despite her farewell words, Evangeline''s car did not show any intention of moving. Instead, her gaze remained fixed on David, her eyes unblinking.


    It was obvious that by ''safe travels, she meant that David should leave.


    David racked his brain, trying to think of something to say to stall for time so he could consult with his boss.


    As his gaze shifted, something caught his attention-a white handkerchief.


    "Madam, may I take a look at your handkerchief?" he asked.


    He remembered clearly that when Evangeline left Andrew''s ce, she did not have that handkerchief with her.


    Which meant the handkerchief could only havee from... the salon!

 540

    Chapter 540


    Evangeline could not understand why David was so interested in the handkerchief, but she did not dwell on it. She casually handed it over, "This was a gift from Ms. Morris. Is there something special about it?"


    David took the handkerchief and unfolded it. In the middle of the white cloth, a silver needle gleamed, its image stark and clear,


    A memory suddenly shed through David''s mind, recalling thest message Celina had sent him.


    ''Do you remember the gift I gave you when we first met?


    ''I do. It was a silver needle


    Celina had deliberately reminded him of this as he gazed at the handkerchief with the same silver needle design in Evangeline''s possession.


    What did this imply? It was likely that Celina was trying to warn him!


    The next target of the person behind all of this could very well be... Evangeline!


    Realizing this, all the color drained from David''s face.


    If he reported this to his boss, telling him that he suspected Evangeline might be in danger because of a handkerchief, would the president even believe him?


    *"Ma''am, Mr. Gordon insisted I personally see you return to the vi. Please don''t make this difficult for me.


    "Walter would be that considerate?" Evangeline snorted in disbelief, but she weighed the truth behind David''s words.


    "Of course. After all, it''s not just the Gordon family''s grandchild you''re carrying."


    David handed the handkerchief back to her.


    Evangeline took it with one hand and lightly touched her belly.


    Well, she could not argue against that reason. Even if it were only for Mr. Gordon''s sake, Walter would make sure to protect the child she was carrying. "Fine, I won''t make things difficult for you."


    The Maserati roared to life, turning around before heading back onto the road toward the Emerald of the


    U Hignds.


    David quickly followed.


    This time, the tailing was tant. There was no need for the previous caution, and even the driver drove with a bold arrogance.


    After watching Evangeline safely enter the vi, David did not leave as they had agreed, Instead, he parked at the entrance of the viplex and called Walter.


    "Mr. Gordon, I need to report an urgent matter. Your wife might be in danger!"Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    David sinctly exined his suspicions to Walter. Immediately grasping the situation, Walter mobilized more personnel to secretly protect Evangeline. However, he could not resist asking, "Mr. Zimmer, what exactly is your rtionship with Celina now?" "She''s... a friend, I suppose?"


    David had wanted to say ''girlfriend'', but remembering how bluntly Celina had rejected him, he did not dare


    1. to.


    "A normal friend warrants such trust? A mere handkerchief, and you''re calling to report this to me?" Sensing the deeper implication in Walter''s words, David quickly surrendered. "Mr. Gordon, please stop teasing me. After all this time, if anyone in thepany knows what I''ve been doing, surely you do?"


    To win over her heart, David had practically lived at Sunny Glow Beauty Salon.


    Walter ended the call and carefully analyzed David''s words.


    If Celina''s hint was genuine, then whoever was behind this must be nning to harm Evangeline soon. However, the Gordon family had tight security at the vi, making it an impractical ce to make a move. So, if they intended to hurt Evangeline, they would have to do it while she was outside the vi...


    Evangeline was now focused on her pregnancy, being particrly cautious about going out. Where would they find the opportunity?


    Staring at his phone, Walter pondered deeply, and then a realization hit him.


    Her pregnancy!

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 541

    Chapter 541


    Evangeline had been pregnant for three months already. Was it not almost time for a prenatal checkup?


    Only the expectant mother, Evangeline, would be allowed to enter the doctor''s office alone during the checkup. That was the easiest time for something to happen!


    Although Walter was not entirely sure whether his suspicions were urate, he thought it was better to be safe than sorry. For Evangeline''s safety, there was nothing he would not do. With that in mind, Walter dialed Evangeline''s number.


    At the time, Evangeline was enjoying the cantaloupe Julieta had given her. The sweet taste eased the bitterness in her heart, lifting her mood quite a bit.


    However, just as she relished that moment, it was interrupted by a phone call-Walter.


    When his name shed on the screen for the third time, Evangeline finally, albeit reluctantly, picked up the


    call.


    "Mr. Gordon, you better have something important to say. Calling me repeatedly-don''t you have anything better to do?"Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter was surprised to hear Evangeline''s imitated tone


    He had always thought Evangeline was a master at controlling her emotions. Whenever she wanted, she could handle anything wlessly, without a single mistake. So, it was rare for her feelings to slip through. Even though she sounded annoyed, Walter was not upset. He found it rather fascinating


    To him, what stood out even more than her annoyance was that she had chosen to reveal her feelings to him. That behavior brought them closer and left him no room to feel angry. Chuckling lightly, Walter calmly reassured her, saying. "Don''t be mad. Of course, there''s something important."


    "Then, hurry up and say it," Evangeline replied bluntly. She sat back on the sofa, phone in hand, listening to Walter while continuing to enjoy the sweetness of her cantaloupe "Isn''t it almost time for your prenatal checkup? Walter asked


    Evang��line was so startled that the bite of cantaloupe she had just taken nearly got stuck in her throat. She coughed hard, finally managing to dislodge the piece of fruit.


    "Why...are you asking about that?" No matter how much she had prepared for it, she never expected Walter to find the time in his busy schedule to ask her about a prenatal checkup!


    "The child belongs to both of us. As the father, isn''t it natural for me to be concerned?" Walter said casually.


    "Of course, there''s a problem," Evangeline responded, rolling her eyes dramatically.


    I''ve told you, this child is mine. As for the tadpole fee, I''ve already paid you!"


    When she wanted to sever all ties with Walter, Evangeline agreed to transfer all her Gordon Group shares that Trey had given her back to Walter. She never wanted the shares in the first ce, so it was an easy


    way to cut thest thread connecting Walter to her child.


    "Tadpole fee?"


    Hearing the unfamiliar phrase, Walter''s mouth could not help but twitch.


    He was honestly tempted to crack Evangeline''s head open and see what it was made of!


    What on earth was in that woman''s mind?


    Had she eaten something weird, or were all pregnant women like that?


    At that moment, Evangeline, on the other end of the call, was simply too adorable.


    "Yes, exactly," Evangeline replied, slightly embarrassed by her boldness. "This child just used one of your little tadpoles, right? So I paid you for it, didn''t I?" Was that not clear enough?


    If Walter had any sense, he would have understood exactly what she meant.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 542

    Chapter 542


    She never expected that.


    "You killed it and think paying a usage fee is enough? Evangeline, that''s not how you do business!"


    Evangeline felt blood rush straight to her head.


    What kind of nonsense was Walter spouting?


    "Besides the usage fee, what else should I pay? Emotional damage for the tadpoles?"


    Evangeline felt an unprecedented insult to her intelligence as soon as she said that.


    "Walter, don''t assume I didn''t take biology in middle school. Even if I didn''t use your tadpoles, it wouldn''t survive more than a week anyway. It was bound to die eventually. Isn''t it better to let it live on in another form than just to let it die offpletely? "This is tant extortion!"


    Evangeline sorted her thoughts and fired back like a machine gun.


    However, Walter had already decided to be shameless


    "So what if it''s extortion? What are you going to do about it? You can give me the tadpoles back, even their corpses, if you want. I''m not picky..."


    Look at how generous he was.


    Walter even thought he was incredibly reasonable, utterly unaware of how thick-skinned he really was.


    Evangeline could not take it anymore.


    "What exactly do you want?"


    She felt like Walter had called her that day specifically to provoke her, and it was intentional!


    She had no choice but to ask him what he was after to avoid further entanglement.


    "When are you going for your prenatal check-up? I want toe with you."


    Having finally achieved his goal, Walter spoke quickly.


    Inside, though, he was calcting.


    As long as he could apany her to the check-up, with his identity, he would definitely be allowed into the examination room. That way, if anyone tried to harm Evangeline in secret, they definitely would not get the chance in the hospital!


    "My check-up has nothing to do with you, and I don''t need yourpany," Evangeline answered swiftly. By then, her marriage to Walter was nothing but a formality, only intact for her grandfather''s sake since they had not officially signed divorce papers. She had already told herself to get used to the idea of being a single mother.


    That way, after the baby was born, she could better adjust to life with her child and ensure that Walter


    would not interfere with their lives.


    125 BOWS


    "Also, Walter, let me be clear-I can take care of the child just fine on my own. If you still have any ideas. about fighting me for custody, you should give up now!Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    No matter what, she would never let Walter have her child!


    Andrew had handed Julia to Walter, so after she officially divorced Walter, there was a good chance Julia would marry into the Gordon family.


    How could she ever tolerate the daughter of the woman who ruined her family, bing her child''s stepmother?


    Her only choice was to ensure that Walter gave up and stopped disrupting her and the child''s lives!


    Evangeline did not know that Walter''s answer waspletely different in his mind.


    Why would he fight her for the child?


    The child belonged to Evangeline, and he belonged to Evangeline, too.


    Both of them were hers, so what was there to fight over?


    However, that thought was far too sweet. Considering Evangeline''s cold attitude toward him recently, even Walter, thick-skinned as he was, could not bring himself to say it. Instead, he had toe up with some reason that would leave her no excuse to reject him "Evangeline, first of all, let me rify-I will never fight you for the child,"


    Walter said solemnly, wanting to reassure her.


    Sure enough, Evangeline rxed a little.


    "Then you-


    you, to


    "Do you think I''m the only one in the Gordon family? My grandfather knows I''ve angered you and nags me about it every day. He''s been telling me to take this prenatal check-up as a chance to make it up to y win you back. He gave me strict orders-I must apany you for his grandson''s first check-up!"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 543

    Chapter 543


    So that was it.


    Evangeline lowered her gaze. Her heart, which had been filled with anger, suddenly felt hollow.


    So, that was the truth.


    It turned out everything was because Trey had given Wolter an order. Walter had no choice but toply. so he called her about apanying her to the prenatal checkup.


    However, it was Walter. Would hepromise so easily?


    "Are you serious?" Evangeline asked, unable to believe it.


    "I am."


    Walter pretended to be impatient, grumbling. "Do you think I have nothing better to do? If it weren''t for the old man''s strict orders, telling me to make time to apany you to the checkup, I wouldn''t even bother!" He knew Evangeline all too well.


    Evangeline was a dutiful woman.


    She would have refused without a second thought if he simply said he wanted to apany her to the checkup. However, bringing up his grandfather would leave her with no choice.


    "If that''s the case, I''m relieved," Evangeline said in a calm voice, but her heart had already turned cold.


    She did not want to hear another word from Walter.


    Every sentence he spoke was like a knife stabbing straight into her heart..Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She kept reminding herself that Walter did not want to apany her because he cared about her or the baby. He only did that because his grandfather had given him an order. He was only fulfilling his duty. "My checkup is scheduled for..."


    Evangeline finally hung up on Walter. Before she could process her emotions, she received a call from her


    uncle, Yale.


    "Evangeline, are you nning to leave the vi soon?" Yale''s voice was filled with anxiety. Clearly, something serious had happened.


    "Yes." Evangeline thought it was odd that her uncle would open with such a question.


    "I''ve scheduled a checkup for the day after tomorrow. The baby is already,three months along, and it''s


    time for the next exam."


    Yale immediately frowned.


    "When did you schedule the appointment?"


    "Yesterday, I think.


    Evangeline had been in a bad mood since learning about the execution date for Andrew. Amidst her chaotic thoughts, she suddenly remembered the baby was due for a checkup, so she made the


    appointment.


    *Postpone it. Or, we can bring a doctor to the house for the checkup."


    No matter what, he was unwilling to take any chances with Evangeline and the baby in her belly!


    Yale did not realize that his vague suggestion had triggered Evangeline''s suspicion.


    "Uncle, has something happened?"


    A prenatal checkup required equipment. Bringing a doctor to the Foster family estate was easy enough, but it would have been a waste of manpower and resources to get all the necessary equipment for just one exam.


    In the past, her uncle would have never agreed to something like that.


    Sure enough, Yale hesitated before answering. After thinking it over, he finally gave Evangeline a straight


    answer.


    it the


    "We heard from the ck market that someone else purchased information about your whereabouts after Beck was caught. One of the details they bought was about your uing prenatal checkup at hospital. "Evangeline, the hospital isn''t safe anymore. Why don''t you reschedule the checkup, or we can do it at home?"

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 544

    Chapter 544


    Yale knew it was not the time to worry about wastefulness. The baby was important, but Evangeline''s safety was even more so. There was only one way to ensure the best of both worlds. "The medical equipment for the checkup may not be a lot, but it''s still a hassle. Maybe we should just skip


    117"


    Evangeline hesitated, saying, "Uncle, it''s just a prenatal checkup, a simple ultrasound. With so many bodyguards from the Foster family protecting me, what can possibly go wrong?"


    She could tell her uncle was overthinking things out of concern, and she also knew that following his arrangements was the safest thing to do. However, she did not want to


    As her uncle gave his reasons for persuading her, Evangeline recalled Walter''s words-that he had to be present for their child''s first checkup.


    Thinking about how slim the chances were for the three of them to be together as a family in the future. Evangeline could not bear to break the promise she had made to Walter. Although she always acted tough when they met, deep down, Evangeline cherished every moment with Walter.


    But, Evangeline, if someone could buy information about your checkup, it meant someone inside the hospital might be working for them. What good would our bodyguards do then? For the sake of your safety, it''s better to-"


    Evangeline interrupted her uncle. "It''s fine. Walter will also be there."


    * Evangeline''s voice was soft, but the mention of Walter''s name was obvious. She did it on purpose. She


    knew that her uncle would feel more at ease with the Gordon family''s influence. Only then would he agree to let her go to the hospital for the checkup.


    Yale fell silent. How could he not understand his niece''s thoughts? If it were not for Evangeline''s feelings for that brat, Walter, he would never have agreed to their marriage in the first ce.


    Evangeline was even willing to risk going to the hospital for a checkup for Walter. So, Yale simply could


    not refuse


    Evangeline was his cherished and beloved niece. She was also a mother-to-be. At such a vulnerable and sensitive time, how could she not long for the presence of the child''s father? Ultimately, all the words he wanted to say were condensed into a single sentence. "Alright, but be careful."


    He would send as many people as possible to protect Evangeline at all times. The Foster family held considerable power in Avalon City, and with so many eyes on Evangeline, he doubted that those behind the scenes would dare make any rash moves.


    At Sunny Glow Beauty Salon, Celina had just seen a customer off when she entered her beauty room and answered the phone.


    "Celina, I''ve confirmed that Evangeline will go to People''s Hospital for her checkup, so you know what to do, right?" Julia''s voice echoed in Celina''s ears, making her feel dizzy.


    After steadying herself, Celina replied, "Everything''s been arranged. You don''t have to worry."


    As she listened to Julia''s triumphant response, Celina hung up the phone, unsure of how she felt. Ever


    since she had arranged a ce for Julia, she had known about Julia''s n to harm Evangeline


    She had her own reasons for following Julia, but that did not mean she was willing to sink to her level and hurt others!Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    So, she immediately sent a tip to David and even gave her own handkerchief to Evangeline as a warning However, Julia had already obtained the confirmed information. What did that mean?

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 545

    Chapter 545


    David had utterly missed the hint!


    The more Celina thought about it, the more restless she became.


    She did not want to hurt anyone and did not want to break thew!


    She wanted to find David and exin everything, but he was mysteriously busy and had not shown up all day.


    After thinking it over for a while, Celina pushed the door to her private room in the beauty salon.


    Outside, it was a bright and sunny beauty salon, but inside, it was a world of darkness.


    The heavy door had be a boundary between twopletely different worlds.


    Once inside, Celina skillfully turned on the light, revealing theputer.


    Sitting down at the desk, she pressed the power button as usual, but her hand slipped into the pocket of her uniform.


    With a sh of gold, a small metallic USB drive appeared in her hand.


    When theputer fully booted up, her trembling fingers had already inserted the USB into the port.


    That was something Celina had been nning to do for a long time.


    She did not want to sink to the same level as those people. She also did not want to do anything that would harm others.


    Her hands, which had always created beauty, should not be stained with blood. It was the only option she


    had left.


    Saving Evangeline was her first step in rebelling against them. That tiny USB drive was the only thing giving her the courage to fight back. When Celina came out of the private room, her expression was calm. She even took the time to check in


    with the front desk.


    Everyone worked diligently, so she felt reassured and returned to her beauty salon.


    Meanwhile, David, who had been urgently arranging for protection for Evangeline, received a text from


    Celina.


    [Stomach ache, craving some porridge.]


    David-stared at the five simple words on the screen, feeling a whirlwind of emotions he could not even


    describe.


    Celina had always been the picture of a strong, independent woman. No matter what happened, she never showed her vulnerabilities. However, at that moment, she acted like a woman coyly confiding in her boyfriend about not feeling well.


    Did that mean he had finally found a way into Celina''s heart?Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    By then, the arrangements to protect Evangeline were nearlyplete, with only a few final touches left. Without a second thought, David made a decision and drove straight to Sunny Beauty Salon


    Avalon City Hospital.


    Cradling her pregnant belly, Evangeline walked down the hospital corridor with Water following closely behind.


    Walter wanted to step forward and support her, but Evangeline had silently pushed him away.


    Finally, just before entering the consultation room, Walter caught up with her, so they walked in together.


    Inside the room, the doctor had been waiting for a while.


    If it had been any other pregnant woman, a man would certainly not have been allowed in.


    However, thebined power of the Foster and Gordon families was unquestionable. In all of Avalon City, who would dare to cross them?


    So, under the watchful yet indifferent eyes of the medical staff, Walter walked into the room. Coincidentally, the doctor conducting the checkup was someone Evangeline knew.


    It was the same doctor who had handled her previous prenatal exams and other treatments.


    When the couple arrived together, the doctor immediately stered a ttering smile on her face. "Hello, Doctor, I''m here for my prenatal checkup. Please arrange for the necessary tests." Evangeline did not bother with pleasantries and got straight to the point.


    Although she wanted Walter by her side, she also knew that the mastermind behind the series of car idents targeting her might be lurking somewhere, waiting to strike.


    Attending that checkup with Walter was already an act of defiance.


    However, she had to be extra cautious for the sake of her own life, her baby, and her grandfather.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 546

    Chapter 546


    She had nned to leave early.


    "Alright," she said.


    The doctor told her assistant to prepare the examination form on theputer. Then, she moved closer to Evangeline and inquired about her condition.


    "At this stage of your pregnancy, there should already be some fetal movements. How do you feel about the frequency of those movements?"


    Evangeline recalled the few times she had felt the baby move inside her belly.


    "I''ve felt some movements, but they''ve been very rare. Is that a problem?"


    The strength and frequency of fetal movements were signs of the baby''s health. Evangeline started to feel anxious. On the other hand, Walter''s expression showed a hint of delight. The baby had already moved? When did that happen?


    The amount of time he had spent with Evangeline was pitifully small, and every time they met, it ended with them storming off in anger. When had there ever been a chance for him to bond with the baby?


    At that thought, a trace of pain flickered in Walter''s eyes. If their rtionship continued like that, he could not even be sure if the child would recognize him as its father in the future.


    After some thought, the doctor nced at Evangeline''s file and said, "Considering how far along you are, it''s normal to feel only a few movements."


    As she spoke, the assistant had already organized Evangeline''s examination details and handed them to the doctor. The doctor took the sheet and ced it into Evangeline''s hands. "But we''ll rely on the test results for certainty. Let''s do an ultrasound scan first."


    Outside the ultrasound room, the atmosphere was eerily cold. Not a single person was there for an exam.


    Walter seemed quite pleased with what he had seen. For Evangeline''s safety, he had already arranged for the hospital to clear the area in advance.


    The two of them handed the form, and the examination proceeded smoothly. Evangeliney on the


    narrow examination bed.


    The doctor noticed Walter following closely behind Evangeline into the room.


    "Sir, this is a pregnancy check-up. Please wait outside," she reminded him kindly.


    Walter''s dark eyes narrowed slightly, and he said indifferently, "That''s my wife. She''s having a check-up, so why can''t I watch?"


    The doctors would probably not have argued with Walter''s insistence if it were in the past. However, that particr doctor was rather stubborn.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    "But we have a policy that family members can''t apany the patient during the examination!"


    The hospital corridor was quiet, so the argument between the two quickly echoed.


    The hospital vice president, who had been observing Evangeline''s exam from the side, broke into a cold sweat upon hearing that.


    He rushed to the examination room door but hesitated, unable to enter because Evangeline was still being examined. He could only shout from outside, "Dr. Cassey, please..e out for a moment."


    Dr. Cassey put the equipment in her hand down and hurried out.


    The vice president immediately gave her a p on the back.


    "Dr. Cassey! I know you''re always so bullheaded, but how can you act this way now? Are you trying to ruin yourself? Do you know who''s inside? That''s the seventh young master of the Gordon family, Walter, and the little princess of the Foster family, Evangeline! Offending either of them will get you thrown out of Avalon City. Do you understand?"


    Still, Dr. Cassey stubbornly mumbled in protest, feeling wronged, "But it''s hospital policy="


    "Policies are made for people! But are those two in there just regr people? They''re walking fortune deities!"


    The vice president''s voice grew louder with each word, showing his agitation.


    Dr. Cassey finally relented. "I understand.."


    Returning to the examination room, Dr. Cassey nced at Walter standing next to the exam bed. Without further protest, she took a bottle, squeezed the sticky gel onto Evangeline''s swollen belly, and began the ultrasound examination.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 547

    Chapter 547


    Since the vice president had personally instructed her, Dr. Cassey meticulously examined Evangeline before telling her and Walter to wait outside for the test results. After seeing them out, she closed the door behind them. However, the moment the door to the examination room shut, Dr. Cassey''s forced smile immediately vanished, and her eyes darkened with a cold, sinister gleam.


    Dr. Cassey pulled out her phone in the small, quiet room and dialed a number. Before she could even speak, a cheerful woman''s voice came through the receiver. ""Is it done?"


    Dr. Cassey lowered her gaze and replied, "I''m sorry. I failed toplete the task."


    "What happened?" The woman''s voice on the other end almost deafened her. "Did Evangeline not go for the prenatal check-up?"


    "It''s not that. Walter apanied Evangeline into the examination room. I had no chance to make a


    move


    "So, Miss, the task has failed..."


    On the other side, Julia''s face turned ashen with anger


    All she wanted was to have someone bring Evangeline to her so she could get rid of the bastard child in her womb. How could such a simple task be so difficult in the hands of those useless people?


    "Are you ipetent? You were in charge of the examination! Couldn''t you have stopped Walter from entering the room? Did you think he''d force his way in?"


    Thinking back on what had happened in the examination room, Dr. Cassey was speechless and had no desire to argue further.


    "Miss, if you insist on putting it that way, I have nothing more to say. I''ll exin everything to Ms. Morris in detail. Goodbye."


    She hung up, and the busy tone from the other end only deepened Julia''s frustration.


    What irritated her more than that subordinate''s disrespect was Walter and Evangeline.


    During herst confrontation with Evangeline, she had been certain that Evangeline had no feelings for Walter. How could someone like that possibly convince him to apany her for a prenatal check-up?Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    It was too coincidental, too strange-almost as if they had already known-about her ns in advance!


    She had arranged everything perfectly, down to the smallest detail. How had Walter known in advance and deliberately apanied Evangeline to the check-up?


    There had to be...a traitor!


    Julia''s face turned even darker.


    Outside the hospital, thanks to her privileged status and Walter''s presence, Evangelin�� had a smooth and quick prenatal check-up and received the results quickly. Chapter 547


    Their baby was healthy. The only minor issue was Evangeline''s slight anemia, wach cold way be addressed by improving her nutrition.


    That was wonderful news for Evangeline, who had not taken good care of herself dong the pregnan She had been worried that her emotional ups and down caused by her father''s and mother''s cases- might affect the baby''s development. With the results hond, she could finally rx


    She immediately called her grandfather vin video chat to share the good news and pulled Walter in to show some affection in front of her grandfather while she was at it


    After that check-up, she no longer wanted to leave the vi for her and the baby''s safety. Her chances to see Walter would be few and far between.


    It was as if Walter knew exactly what Evangeline was thinking. He cooperated with her and did whatever she asked. He yed along without missing a beat, even when facing her grandfather''s scrutinizing gaze through the screen. Only when the call ended did he let out a small sigh.


    "Thank you, Walter."


    She owed Walter a favor since he helped to cheer her grandfather up.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 548

    Chapter 548


    ""You''re wee."


    He had wanted to add-''mother of my child."


    Walter realized those words were inappropriate, so he tactfully held them back.


    The hand that had been resting on Evangeline''s waist stiffened. It was only when Evangeline returned to her senses that she pried his hand off and created a safe distance between them.


    Walter did not feel awkward, though. Instead, he took the opportunity to say what he had already nned.


    "Evangeline, the baby is stable now, and we need many things. Why don''t we go shopping and buy some things for the baby?"


    He did not want to miss a single moment of the baby''s life. However, given the state of their rtionship, he could only take every opportunity he had to prepare for the baby. As for the rest, he would work hard to win the child''s mother back. Naturally, he would not let his child go without.


    "Shopping? Now?" Evangeline asked in surprise, her hand instinctively moving to her belly. "Isn''t it a bit early? We don''t even know if it''s a boy or a girl!"


    Ever since she got pregnant, she had not had a peaceful day. Thankfully, the fetus was still tiny, so she had not felt rushed to buy anything yet. Besides, even if she did not buy anything, when the day came for her to give birth, her brothers and uncles certainly would not let the baby go without anything. "Yes, today, while I have the time."


    Walter had already made preparations to ensure he could stay with Evangeline peacefully. He had rushed to finish urgent work and postponed the rest so he could be there for her doctor''s appointments and go shopping with her.


    "But..." Evangeline hesitated, remembering her uncle''s warnings.


    There were people out there who wanted to harm her, lurking in the shadows. If she went shopping, would she not make herself an easy target?


    Her indecision made Walter''s heart tighten painfully. He knew how dangerous her situation was, so he had already arranged for David to clear out the mall. Everything was ready. They just needed to go


    Evangeline''s safety was his top priority-he could not afford to be careless.


    "The mall''s already been cleared out, and all the staff are waiting for us," Walter said, doing his best to ease her worries. "Besides, Evangeline, as the father, I want to do something for our baby. Please try to understand how I feel, just like I understand you." Walter rarely spoke so gently. His deep voice and slightly husky tone were irresistibly charming, just like the first time they had met.


    Evangeline''s once unshakable heart began to waver ever so slightly.


    If the mall had been cleared, it would be fine, right?


    With that thought, Evangeline gently stroked her belly as her beautiful eyes fell on Walter. She nodded.


    125 BOS


    She could not refuse Walter''s care for the baby. After all, as the child''s parents, how could she deny the baby the chance to experience its father''s love?


    The ck Rolls-Royce drove steadily, eventually stopping at thergest mall in Avalon City. Located in the heart of the shopping district, it waspletely empty at that moment.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Only a few uniformed staff could be seen here and there, all waiting for Walter''s arrival,


    Meanwhile, Julia, longing for Walter,y quietly on arge bed, antly observing everything around her.


    Her mission had failed. She had nned to go to the mall and go on a shopping spree to vent her frustrations. However, as soon as she got into the taxi, she learned the mall had closed.

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 549

    Chapter 549


    A shopping mall of that size-a single day of closure would mean a tremendous loss. Julia could easily guess as much, even with just a quick thought. So, she became even more curious.


    Who on earth had the power to clear out an entire mall of that scale for a whole day?


    That was until she saw the Rolls-Royce that had appeared in her dreams countless times...


    Walter!


    The head of the Gordon Group and the seventh young master of the Gordon family. As the mall owner, if he wanted to clear it for a day, it was unlikely any store owners would dare to object. After all, Walter''spensation for the closure was several times higher than their daily revenue!


    Julia quickly wondered why Walter went to such great lengths to clear out the mall. So, she stood by the window, staring intently at the Rolls-Royce.


    The car had stopped. Walter got out first, then walked to the other side of the vehicle. He carefully opened the door and helped someone out. Evangeline Rearden!


    She would still recognize that face even if that woman had turned to ashes!


    So, Walter had cleared the mall for Evangeline, the woman Julia had been plotting to destroy!


    Rage and jealousy surged within her, burning like a wildfire through her mind. Though she stood far from the Rolls-Royce, she could see how Walter tenderly helped that woman.


    At that moment, Julia felt like she would explode.


    She absolutely would never let Evangeline live peacefully!


    Her thoughts became more apparent, and Julia immediately dialed a number.


    "What''s up?" a grating, raspy voice said through the receiver. Julia grimaced in disgust.


    "Can''t you stop using that voice changer? It''s unbearable, you know that?" she snapped.


    The other party chuckled softly. However, through the voice changer, the sound that reached Julia''s ears was like nails on a chalkboard.


    "Ms. Kast, oh, wait. I should be calling you Ms. Julia now. Why the sudden call? Do you have any orders for me?"


    Julia''s lips curled in disdain as her gaze remained fixed on the two figures entering the mall.


    "How would I dare to order you around?"


    Technically, he was her superior. Yet, he was pretending to be oblivious. Knowing his annoying and twisted personality, Julia immediately guessed he was in a good mood. That was why even she, who called him, was subjected to his teasing. "What''s there for you to be afraid of? I''ve always respected women, haven''t 1?"


    Chapter 54%


    Julia suddenly remembered the two times that person had roared at her through the phone like an angry beast. She found it impossible to agree with his words,


    She did not intend to continue that conversation and decided to change the subject.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Well, since you''re in such a good mood, why don''t I tell you something that may make you feel even


    better?"


    Their organization was highly disciplined, with punishments so brutal that betrayals were exceedingly rare. Yet, she had discovered one, and she knew he would be interested. "Go ahead."


    The other person stoppedughing, and his tone became more solemn,


    "I think there''s something off about our Ms. Morris."


    The other side stayed silent, clearly waiting for her to borate.


    "I had nned to capture someone and needed her to send someone to assist me. But the mission failed


    "A failed mission doesn''t necessarily mean Ms. Morris is at fault."


    "But the only ones who knew about the mission were me, her, and the executor. The executor and I onlymunicated through a single line of contact. The only possible leak in thiswork had to be her."

 Bitten Once Shy Forever 550

    Chapter 550


    That was precisely why Ju had targeted Celina. She took a deep breath, waiting for the other person to


    continue.


    "Julia, do you understand what you''re saying right now?


    "You''re well aware of the consequences our organization has for traitors..."


    The other person''s tone grew increasingly serious, but Julia had already made her decision. She would not back down just because of a few confirming words


    "Of course, I know. And Isn''t it the organization''s motto to kill ten thousand wrongly rather than to let one slip by?"


    Having experienced one failure, she wanted to eliminate Celina and have someone loyal and obedient assigned to her by the higher-ups.


    "As long as you won''t regret it."


    The call ended, and Julia waited right where she was for the news of Celina''s elimination. What she did not expect was to receive another call ten minutester. "Celina''s situation is unique. She can''t be eliminated for now; we must verify a few things first."


    A unique situation?


    Julia had only known Celina for a short time. She was simply a subordinate assigned by the organization, someone who should follow her orders. She had never heard of any special treatment for her! "What''s going on? I''m her superior, and yet I know nothing about this?"


    "It''s not just you. If I hadn''t made inquiries, I wouldn''t have known either. However, the decision has been made. Celina can''t be eliminated for now, but the organization can have her taken in for questioning. If your statement is true, she''ll be eliminated after everything is verified."


    "Who will take over my work? The Sunny Beauty Salon has already been exposed to Walter and Evangeline. If it suddenly shuts down, it''ll arouse their suspicion."


    In truth, Julia did not care whether Celina lived or died. She just needed an obedient and efficient subordinate.


    "Don''t worry. The organization will assign a new person to assist you."


    Julia felt relieved with that promise, but that relief was fleeting.


    Julia, you know the reason for your return to the country.


    "You''ve already wasted too much time and energy on that man. The boss has heard about your Involvement with Walter and is very dissatisfied with you. So, from now on, you should watch your behavior. "I don''t need to remind you how you got to your current position, do I?"


    That friendly reminder made Julia''s face instantly pale Painful memories flooded her mind like a nightmare that had been haunting her. No matter how hard she tried to forget, she just could not. +25 DONUS


    Her rise to power...hade at the cost of a woman''s most valuable asset.


    To someone like him, that slight blush on her cheeks and the Innocent, harmless image she portrayed made her stand out from the crowd and win his favor.


    "I understand. Once I''ve handled everything here, I''ll calm the boss down."


    Julia was not about to follow orders so easily. Since the other person had been kind to remind her, she had to return the favor.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Don''t focus on me. This mission is for both of us. From what I know, there''s been no movement on your


    end."


    Through the receiver, the other person''s arrogantughter rang out.


    "For now, you don''t need to worry about me. Just take care of your own business."


    While the two of them continued their conversation so easily, Celina was about to face the greatest crisis of her life.

 Chapter 551

    Celina was the first to arrive at the beauty salon, just like any other day, but her mind was miles away on this particr day.


    She tried to lead the morning staff meeting, but her thoughts kept drifting off, her face etched with worry.


    The young receptionist, who hardly ever saw Celina so out of sorts, joined the rest of the staff in urging her to take a day off to unwind.


    Alone in Avalon City, Celina had no real ce to escape to. However, the genuine concern in her employees'' eyes made it hard to say no. She had not taken a single day off since Sunny Glow Beauty Salon opened its doors. Maybe a day of rest was overdue. With that thought, she quickly gathered her things and drove off to her empty home.


    However, tranquility was short-lived.


    Walking to the underground parking lot, Celina could not shake the feeling that someone was tailing her. She nced back several times but saw nothing out of the ordinary, so she picked up the pace.


    Then, as she slid into her car, a tall figure in ck shed in her rearview mirror before vanishing just as quickly.


    Celina shut the door, her hands gripping the steering wheel, but she did not start the car. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath to steady her racing heart.


    She had known the risks when she messaged David to meet up, but she had not expected them to act so fast.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    The Bennison family had one rule: never forgive a betrayal. Their idea of dealing with a traitor like her was to abandon them to the wilderness.


    However, Celina was not ready to die-not out of fear for herself, but because her family was still under Bennison''s thumb, trapped with no way out.


    Celina''s heart was heavy with regret. Why did she have to be an expert at chemistry and catch the eye of that wicked family?


    If only things were different, she would be at home, a happy-go-lucky girl, untouched by the dark and violent world she was then fleeing from.


    She took a deep breath and started


    the engine. With her pursuers


    momentarily dazed, she Stad


    on the gas and zoomed out parking lot.


    However, her escape was short-lived. The sound of tires


    the


    popping one after another


    air, dragging Celina into a pit of despair.


    Three blown tires-how much further could she possibly get? If the family''s goons caught her then, she was a goner for sure!


    Just then, more men in ck swarmed into her view.


    Was this going to be herst stand?


    With that grim thought, Celina''s foot pressed down even harder on the gas, and the car hurtled down the road.


    She had no idea which way to go, any direction was better than none if it meant a sliver of hope.


    However, with her tires gone, her car was no match for the sleek vehicles of her ck-d pursuers.


    She zigzagged desperately, trying to lose them in a dizzying dance of turns.


    Then came a loud crash.


    Her battered car could not take the strain and finally gave out in the midst of a sharp turn.


    Shaking off the dizziness, Celina wed her way out of the wreckage.


    As her vision cleared, she recognized the neon lights of Avalon City''s bustling downtown.


    There was a mall nearby, always packed with people. If she could just make it there, she would be safe


    from the Bennison family''s clutches!

 Chapter 552

    Celina, still reeling from the crash, could barely muster the strength to stand. She managed only a few steps before her legs gave out, and she crumpled to the curb, drained and weak. Then she thought of David.


    His face shed through her mind, a beacon of hope in her darkest moment. Summoning every ounce of energy she had left, Celina dug out a tiny phone from her hidden waist pocket and dialed David''s number. The phone rang and rang, each tone a fading echo of hope.


    With each unanswered call, the warmth in Celina''s heart dimmed. By the third attempt, despair engulfed herpletely. Her mother had been right all along-men were the most unreliable beings... However, what did that make her to David? He had shown interest, and she had, perhaps unwittingly, started to care more than she should have...


    The chill of death crept up her limbs, her body growing colder as her blood stilled in her veins. Without realizing it, Celina''s eyes fluttered shut, surrendering to the numbness. "Why is there someone here?!"


    A woman''s startled cry and the instinctive yearning for life jolted Celina''s eyes open.


    A pregnant woman, cradling her belly, swam into her blurry view. The stranger squatted, her eyes lighting up with recognition upon seeing Celina''s face.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Ms. Morris? What are you doing here?"


    Did that woman know her?


    With thest shred of strength, Celina forced her eyes wide, desperate to bring the woman''s face into focus.


    The girl facing her had striking features and a stunningly beautiful face, her eyebrows arching with unmistakable confidence and pride.


    "You are... Ms. Evangeline."


    She barely managed to get the words out before her eyes shut, and she slipped into unconsciousness.


    "Quick, she''s hurt! We need to get her to the hospital, now!" Evangeline''s voice rang out, her gorgeous face etched with concern.


    She hade to the mall with


    Walter to shop for baby stuff.


    However, since Walter had


    somehow managed to clear out the usually packed ce, she was able to snap up everything the baby needed in no time.


    The once noisy and crowdedmercial hub was eerily quiet, and Evangeline felt an urge to explore, However, as she and Walter meandered without aim, they stumbled upon a woman, bloodied and crumpled on the ground.


    She did not recognize the wounded woman at first, but on closer look, she realized it was Celina.


    The ambnce from Avalon City General Hospital arrived in a sh, sirens wailing. Evangeline watched as Celina was whisked away, and only then could she breathe a sigh of relief.


    Turning to Walter, a thought struck her. "Walter, where''s David? He''s always with you, but I haven''t seen him today."


    She could not pinpoint when it started, but she always associated seeing Celina with David being nearby.


    With Celina hurt and David nowhere to be found, something seemed off.


    "He''s got other stuff to deal with."


    Walter''s response was offhand, but his brows were knitted in a frown.


    He understood all too well David''s feelings for Celina. However, with David off on some top-secret mission that would keep him away for who knew how long, the question hung in the air: should he tell about Celina''s injury?

 Chapter 553

    "I see."


    Evangeline understood easily when Walter mmed up like that he was not in the mood for chit-chat.


    Why push it and make things awkward?


    The baby check-up was done, the shopping bags were packed, and I was time for Evangeline and Walter to say their goodbyes.


    The Foster family''s ride was already curbside at the mall, waiting for Evangeline.


    She nced back at Walter, feeling a whirlwind of emotions. Bathed in sunlight, his dark eyes seemed to hold her and only her. Of course, that was just wishful thinking, right?


    Evangeline snorted to herself.


    She knew better. The whole heart-eyes thing was just a trick of the light. After all, Walter was only there because of the baby-the Gordon heir growing inside her. Even if Walter wanted to look the other way, Trey sure would not let him. "Goodbye, Walter." She waved, letting out the words she had been dying to say.


    If she had it her way, she would never have to face Walter again.


    Walter looked like he wanted to drop some big revtion, but as Evangeline''s bodyguards closed in, he just mirrored her wave. Whatever he was holding back, he choked it down instead.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Maybe, just maybe, when the dust had settled with the Bennison family drama, or once Evangeline''s safety was not hanging by a thread anymore, he would have found the peace to tell her what was in his heart.


    Through all the time they had spent together, getting to know each other''s quirks and qualities, he hade to understand Evangeline more deeply. He had been sure about her, as certain as the stars, that his heart would never waver... However, what he did not seeing was that the Foster family''s car was not just a ride for the bodyguards. It was also carrying Holden Foster himself.


    The moment Holden spotted Evangeline, his worry broke free like a dam bursting.


    "Evie, just seeing you okay makes me so darn happy," he eximed.


    Evangeline blinked in surprise. "Uncle, what are you talking about? I haven''t been in any danger!"


    Holden frowned and shot her a look that was half irritated, half-relieved. "Do you have any idea how scared we were when we saw that ambnce, you little heartbreaker? Your Uncle Yale and I nearly had heart attacks! We only calmed down after we called Walter and found out it was someone else who got hurt."


    He jabbed a finger at Evangeline''s forehead, his voice stern but caring.


    "Listen here, you can''t go pulling stunts like that again! Your grandfather put your safety-and that of the Foster family''s little


    one-into mine and Uncle


    Yale''s


    hands. We''ve got a duty to protect


    you!


    QUMS


    "Letting youe to the hospital with Walter for a checkup was already bending the rules. And then you go off gallivanting, worrying us half to death!"


    Holden was always a chatterbox, worrying over every little thing that came up. Evangeline was used to his constant fretting.


    However, the whole ordeal with


    Celina ending up in the hospital and


    causing their uncles to worry was a


    curveball she had not seening. Wracked with guilt, she quickly set out to reassure them.


    "Come on, with the whole Foster family looking out for me, what could go wrong? The person I rescued, though, she''s got some connections.


    "Uncle, make sure someone''s keeping an eye on her. Once she''s on the mend, bring her over to my ce, will you?"


    Evangeline figured Holden was in the dark about Celina''s real deal, so she did not spill the beans.


    However, Holden had already pegged Celina as someone to watch and had dug up the dirt on her. "The boss of Sunny Glow Beauty Salon? Yeah, she''s got some influence."

 Chapter 554

    Holden gave a thoughtful nod and looked back at Evangeline, his eyes clouded with concern. "Evie, did you know she''s close with Julia, the one who hurt you? How could you even think of saving her?"


    He was stewing over Evangeline''s mall trip with Walter. Talk about acting on a whim!


    Celina, a walking red g, was getting that close to her. Was that not a ring sign that the Fosters'' security was cking?


    If Celina had not been hurt, who knew what might have happened to Evangeline?


    Little did he know that Evangeline did not see it the same way.


    "Uncle, you''ve never really met Celina, so you can''t quite get her," said Evangeline.


    "Celina''s just been doing her job as the head of the beauty salon, and she''s never done anything to hurt me. If she''s actually working with Julia, then maybe... If we''re honest with her, do you think she might have a change of heart and join our side?" Evangeline''s hopeful n was more for show than anything else, especially in front of Holden.


    Truth be told, she genuinely liked Celina and would not have lied to Holden about it if she did not want her uncle to give Celina a chance.


    "I''m not sure if she''ll have a change of heart, but what I really want to know is whether she could hurt you," said Holden.


    Nothing mattered more to Holden than Evangeline''s safety. However, how could Evangeline guarantee something like that?


    "I really don''t think so. I mean, I did save her life. She wouldn''t turn on me after that, would she?"


    Evangeline mused, fully aware of her uncle''s deep concern. She quickly suggested, "Uncle, if you''re worried, why not just talk to her before you send her my way? You''re good at reading people. You''ll see right through her if she means any harm." Holden nodded in approval.


    To ensure Evangeline''s safety,


    Holden decided not to return to Emerald of the Hignds that time, instead, he went directly back to the Foster family''s old house with her.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Cole was getting on in years and had been sick, so he longed for thepany of his family more than ever.


    Yale and Holden were swamped with work, popping in and out like fleeting shadows. How could they stick by the old man''s side around the clock?


    On the other hand, Evangeline, cradling a baby bump, was up for the job.


    She had been scared stiff that Walter would goof up in front of Cole, which is why she had beenying low.


    However, after a shopping spree


    that


    act fcased their lovey-dovey


    to see, she could breathe


    easy At least Grandpa Cole would not be suspicious.


    Atst, she could hang out with her grandfather without a care in the world!


    While peace had returned to the Foster family, Walter''s world was anything but quiet.


    He was acquainted with Celina.


    David, the man who had fallen head over heels for Celina and was dead set on marrying her, had once shown Walter her photo. The real deal was a spitting image of her snapshot, and Evangeline''s gasp had sealed the deal on Celina''s identity for Walter.


    Being the boss with a heart, he figured he owed it to David to tell about Celina''s mishap.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Right on cue, David''s check-in call came in.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, we''ve cracked the case on the slow-moving diamond mine project," David chimed in.


    "The Bennison bunch is eyeing that


    diamond mine, so they''ve been


    greasing palms to fix the prices. However, our crew isn''t rolling over that easily, and the tug-of-war is what''s been dragging this whole mess out."

 Chapter 555

    Walter''s eyes narrowed, his face a mask of calm.


    He had seen David''s reporting a mile away.


    "Any breakthroughs?" Walter prodded.


    Years of working together had given David and Walter a kind of silent shorthand. With just a few cryptic words from Walter, David could almost read his mind.


    "No leads yet. The guy running the show is tied up with the Bennison family through marriage. He''s actually family, not someone we can sway with cash," David exined. The case would not be such a headache otherwise.


    David knew Walter had poured his heart into that case, so he tried to lift his spirits. "Just because we''re stuck now doesn''t mean we''re out of options. I''ll keep digging for something to go on!" He could not believe that everyone was in the Bennison family''s pocket. People always had a price or a weak spot!


    "David, now it''s my turn to drop some news on you.


    "Celina''s been hurt."


    Walter''s sigh was trapped in his throat.


    He was at a loss. The diamond mine case was safe only in David''s hands.


    However, Celina was different for David. He had already lost Evangeline. How could he stand by and watch his right-hand man lose his love too?


    David''s voice came through the receiver,ced with shock, "What are you talking about? Wasn''t Celina at the spa? How did she get hurt? Is it bad?" His questions came fast and frantic, his voice shaking.


    Walter thought of Celina, still unconscious in the hospital. "Evangeline and I found her out cold. She''s still in the hospital."


    "Out cold? How did that happen..."


    David''s heart raced with the urge to be by Celina''s side in an instant, but the strange ce he found himself in choked his words. The diamond mine case was a big deal, and


    Walter had him shipped off the. He


    with no warning, cutting off all his


    usual ways to reach out. It had been ages since he hadst heard


    Celina''s voice. Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    All of a sudden, she was hurt.


    He was tied up with work that could not wait, so he had only one shot...


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, could you please check on her for me?"


    He felt awkward asking such a personal favor. Walter was the big boss, with a ton on his te. How could David ask him to take time out for that? Nheless, he was at his wit''s end.


    His mind was a mess with worry for Celina. He needed to know she was alright to keep his head in the game there.


    "Absolutely. Try to wrap things up if you can, ande back," said Walter.


    Walter had been like a brother to David after all those years working together. He could not stand the thought of David fretting over Celina from so far away.


    "Thank you, thank you, Mr. Walter


    Gordon!" David was so touched that he was close to tears. He knew the stakes of his overseas assignment, and Walter''s willingness to let Kim return because of Celina''s ident meant the world to him.


    "And one more thing," added David, a serious tone taking over. "I don''t think Celina''s injury is just bad luck. Could it be part of an internal purge?"


    The term ''purge'' sent a chill down his spine-it meant someone was out to settle scores within their own ranks.


    However... had Celina ever done anything to betray the team?

 Chapter 556

    With that thought, Walter pressed on, "David, you and I both know Celina is on the other side. Has she done anything out of the ordinarytely?" Out of the ordinary?


    David''s hand tightened into a fist without him realizing it.


    There was one thing.


    That afternoon, Celina did something she had never done before she texted him.


    [My stomach hurts. I could really go for some oatmeal.]


    David, seizing the moment to be the caring boyfriend, did not hesitate to get her some oatmeal.


    However, instead of a cozy night in, Celina had him meet her at a cafe.


    The cafe was all ss and style. David stuck out like a sore thumb with his simple oatmeal. To anyone else, he might have looked pretty ridiculous. However, he did not mind.


    The scent of coffee filled the air, but he pushed aside the cup in front of Celina and assertively ced his oatmeal before her. "Got a stomach ache, right? Try this."


    In that instant, he caught a shimmer of tears in Celina''s eyes.


    He knew she was moved. For him, that was just the start of taking care of Celina.


    Celina quietly picked up the spoon in a rare moment ofpliance and took a sip from the oatmeal he brought.


    The aroma was inviting, but Celina only had one sip.


    "Thanks for the oatmeal, Mr. Zimmer. It''s really good."


    With David watching, Celina set down the spoon, her face taking on an unprecedented seriousness.


    "I wanted to see you today because there''s something I need to tell you.


    "Evangeline, your boss'' wife, is in serious trouble. Since Julia got off the hook in court, she''s been fixated on nabbing Evangeline. And yeah, you''re right-I''m her right-hand woman, so I end up doing her dirty work." David rubbed his fingers together, realizing more and more that he just could not get a read on the woman in front of him.


    They were on opposite sides of that mess, yet there she was, calling him out to confess and her own reluctance?


    "Why?" David pressed.


    Celina blinked in surprise.


    She had just told David that the person he was sworn to protect was in deep danger, and he asked her why? It was like they were speaking differentnguages.


    Reading her puzzled look, David quickly rified, "Celina, we''re on opposite teams here. Why confess to me?"Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    It clicked for Celina then.


    She had always kept David at arm''s length, but then she dragged him into her ns. No wonder he was confused.


    "I don''t want to hurt Evangeline."


    Actually, she did not want to hurt anyone.


    She did not want her hands tainted with violence. She did not want to be dragged down into a dark pit for the evil Bennison family.


    "She''s been nothing but kind, so..."


    Watching her eyshes quiver with her words, David knew Celina was not beingpletely honest.


    He let out a quiet sigh, putting on a bit of a show as he said, "Celina, if you''re doing this because of me, not wanting to hurt my Mrs. Gordon, I''d be a lot more cheerful..."


    David''s voice was heavy with a kind of wistful sorrow like he was ying the part of a pitiful character in a drama, waiting for Celina to


    sweet-talk him back to cheerfulness.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Celina was speechless. She stared at his brazen attitude, utterly clueless about what to say next.


    "David, this is no joke. Evangeline really should have her prenatal checkup at home."


    "Enough, I get it." David cut her off.


    "You could''ve just called me about this. Why make a big deal and meet up at a cafe? Is it because I haven''t stopped by the beauty salontely, and you''re missing me, trying to use


    b


    this as an excuse to hang out..."

 Chapter 557

    David, through his actions, became the living embodiment of the saying "If you''ve got no shame, you''re unstoppable.''


    Celina had reached her limit. "I got you here because you totally missed my subtle signals!"


    She thought she had been crystal clear, yet there she was, hearing that Evangeline was heading to the hospital for her checkup.


    Celina had to wonder: How did David manage to work with Walter all those years? Was it really all due to his thick skin?


    "I got the message," said David, suddenly all business, "but Mr. Walter Gordon and Mrs. Gordon are set on a hospital visit. There''s nothing I can do but to discreetly arrange for some extra security to ensure Mrs. Gordon''s safety." "Are they both... not quite right in the head?"


    Celina had to pause before she found a way to phrase ''idiots'' more tactfully as ''not quite right in the head.''


    David just shrugged helplessly.


    "This whole situation is just in weird! At the start, Mrs. Gordon was head over heels for the big boss, practically tripping over herself to get his attention, while Mr. Walter Gordon wasn''t having any of it. Now the tables have turned, and it''s Mr. Walter Gordon who''s all googly-eyed for Mrs. Gordon, but she''s the one ying hard to get.


    "Watching these two go back and forth is exhausting-I mean, when will this crazy rollercoaster end?"


    David had a field day griping about Walter and Evangeline''s antics, going on and on until he finally cracked a smile out of Celina.


    As the memory faded, David kicked himself. Why on earth did he not see the betrayaling? Celina hadid out their whole game n, and he missed the signs!


    ...


    They always said in those clean-up missions, it was better to take out a thousand by mistake than to miss even one bad apple.


    If only he had caught on sooner, he would have made sure Celina was under tight watch. She would not be in that mess...


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, where is Celina now? She''s in real danger. Can we get her some protection?"


    Since David was out of the country, he''s got no choice but to lean on Walter for help back home. Walter grunted dismissively.


    "Look, with the way things stand, protecting Celina is not happening.


    "Evangeline snatched Celina, and the Foster family''s got her hospital room locked down tighter than Fort Knox Getting in to see her is likeUpstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    breaking into a bank vattent


    That was no joke.


    When he first heard what David was asking, he could not help but think about whether he could get


    Evangeline to let him see Celina just


    once.


    It was not like he had anything major to say, he just wanted to make sure Celina knew David was thinking about her.


    "With the Fosters watching out for you, you''ve got nothing to worry about."


    "I''ll make sure to check in on Celina here, and you try to wrap things up and head back soon, okay?"


    If it was David asking, Evangeline would surely let them meet.


    In Avalon City''s biggest graveyard.


    Julia, in her somber ck dress and clutching a bunch of vivid daisies, paused in front of a gravestone.


    Above it, a photo of Lydia and


    Andrew, focked in an embrace and smiling just like they always did, brought a sense of life to


    Julia gently set the daisies down below their smiling faces and bowed deeply. Then, she sat down right there against the stone. "Mom, Dad, I''m here to visit..."

 Chapter 558

    The marble of the gravestone was icy to the touch.


    However, as Julia leaned on it, a long-missed warmth seeped through her.


    The day they carried out the execution, the police had called, inviting her to say onest goodbye to her parents. However, once she was all dressed up and her makeup was done, she looked in the mirror and just could not bring herself to go. Her parents were about to be executed. What was she supposed to do, wave them off?


    The pain was too much. She could not bring herself to leave the house and eventually gave up.


    The more she hurt, the more she resented Evangeline.


    Why should she have to feel that way? Why was it that her parents faced the ultimate punishment, and yet she was left unscathed? Worse still, she was carrying the baby of the man she adored! It was so unfair!


    Why did Evangeline get all the breaks, while she could not even grasp a shred of happiness?


    Her heart seethed with rage.


    Julia''s fingers gently traced the face of Lydia in the photo.


    "Mom, even if we didn''t get our final goodbye, I know what you''d want to tell me.


    "It''s all Evangeline''s fault, that traitor. She''s the reason you and Dad ended up like this, and I won''t let her off easy!"


    With those words, a chilling smile cracked across Julia''s face.


    "Just wait, Mom and Dad. I''ll make them pay. I''ve got it all nned out."


    The purge had already kicked off.


    Celina was about to be crossed off the list by the Bennison family.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Julia was running low on loyal cronies. Stealing Evangeline away from the Fosters grip was going to be tricky.


    However, she was relentless.


    This time, she vowed Evangeline would pay with her life.


    Thest attempt to nab her had flopped. As it that was not enough, Julia was bombarded with images of Walter and Evangeline''s


    lovey dovey baby appointment


    their shopping sprees. How could she not burn with hatred?


    That Evangeline, stealing her parents and her love!


    What was it about her? Just because she had a baby on board?


    If Walter had made a move on her back then, Julia would have been carrying the Gordon family''s first grandchild by then. Instead, she was stuck there, pouring out her


    heartache to her mother and father.


    sw now


    The more she dwelled on it, the more her anger red and the tears threatened to spill. Julia could not keep them at bay any longer.


    She dabbed at her eyes and made the call.


    "Celina is out of the picture, and I''m short on people. Can you send some my way?"


    She purposely left out what she needed them for.


    She knew all too well that anything involving Evangeline would be a hard pass for the person on the other end.


    However, with her mind set on seeing Evangeline gone, she was not about to let a phone call stand in her way. "Sure. Where are you? I''ll send someone to you right away."


    "I''m at... the cemetery."


    The voice on the line went quiet, pausing for a beat. "My condolences, Julia."


    The whole of Avalon City was buzzing with the news of Julia''s parents'' death sentence. The person on the other end was no exception.


    Still, the words offort eased Julia''s heart a bit.


    "Yeah, it''s fine. I just came for a visit. Send your people to pick me up."


    With that, she got down to business, plotting to nab Evangeline.


    ...


    Over at the Foster family''s old house, Evangeline was in her olde room, watching Julieta fuss over her wardrobe, sneezing up a storm. One sneeze was so fierce it even brought tears to her eyes. NovelDrama.Org


    Julieta chuckled and replied.

 Chapter 559

    grandfather?"


    "Ms. Evangeline, with the way you''re sneezing up a storm, you shouldn''t be hanging around here. No matter how clean your clothes are, they''ll pick up dust, and that''s no good for your nose. Why don''t you head downstairs and spend some quality time with your Cole could not contain his excitement when he heard Evangeline was moving back home. He had finished all his chores early and was just lounging in the living room, eagerly awaiting her return.


    The thought of his hopeful look made Evangeline''s heart waver. Before she moved back, she had not given it much thought.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    However, the idea of being around her grandfather all the time scared her. She dreaded the moment he might bring up Walter, such as why Walter had not visited with her pregnancy bing more obvious with each passing month...


    Julieta had been by Evangeline''s side for months and could read her like an open book. She gave Evangeline''s shoulder a reassuring pat and said softly, "Ms. Evangeline, your grandpa is getting on in years, and to put it bluntly, every day he''s here is one less day we have with him.


    "He woke up today, but who''s to say about tomorrow? Would you want to miss out on precious family time over some jerk?"


    Evangeline was struck by a wave of reflection. Cole was old and sickly. She med herself for being so headstrong, so focused on hiding her rtionship troubles with Walter that she had overlooked the most important person her grandfather!


    Was everything she did not supposed to make him happy? Yet there she was, able to share joyful moments with him, and all she could think about was Walter...


    Talk about unexpected surprises!


    Evangeline''s small hand gently rested on Julieta''s, her gratitude shining through. "Mrs. Lewis, thank you so much."


    Julieta smiled warmly and gave her hand a reassuring pat. "It''s nothing, dear. You better get going now. Your grandpa has been waiting for you downstairs for ages." Down in the living room of the old house...


    Cole lounged on the couch, eyes glued to the television-or so it seemed. He was actually all ears for any sound from upstairs.


    His beloved granddaughter was home, and he would get to see her every day then. How could he not be over the moon?


    Right then, footsteps echoed from the staircase.


    Cole''s face lit up, but he quickly slipped back into his casual television-watching act.


    Evangeline,ing down the stairs, was greeted by that unexpected sight.


    coffee


    Cole, the one who would rather sip Outside and soak up the view, calm and was engrossed in a


    on show!


    That was a total break from the norm, and it could only mean one thing he was waiting for her.


    She felt a fresh wave of thanks for Julieta''s nudge. Otherwise, who knew how long she would have lingered upstairs?


    "Grandpa? Evangeline entered the


    living


    Cole any fuss."


    and sat down


    so hooked?"


    She peeked at the screen with mock curiosity.


    There it was, the television was showing thetest hit series ''Game of Thrones'', which was not exactly the costume idol drama it was made out to be.


    Evangeline,ying low from her phone during her pregnancy, had been even more cautious about television time.


    She only knew about that show because of her friend Roslyn, the singer-turned-actress.


    Roslyn was in that show, but she was not the star-she yed the third lead.


    However, what really piqued her curiosity was something else entirely.


    "Grandpa, since when are you into those old-timey dramas?"

 Chapter 560

    Cole did not have a clue about old-timey dramas. He just threw on some random show to pass the time while waiting for Evangeline. He had not even paid attention until she pointed it out.


    Then, taking a closer look, he just saw a bunch of characters in ancient garb hopping around the screen, which was kind of dizzying.


    However, when Evangeline asked him about it, he felt too sheepish to say he would just put on anything, so he yed along. "What''s the big deal? Young folks get to binge-watch whatever, but an old guy like me can''t be trendy?" "Oh, that''s not it!" Evangeline linked her arm with Cole''s. "I''m just curious, that''s all.


    "Grandpa, you''re usually all about the great outdoors, right? Our family''s garden is one of the nicest spots in Avalon City. It''s perfect for a stroll when you''re looking to rx."


    She was right. The Foster family''s garden was a sight to behold, sprawling and lush in the heart of Avalon City.


    However, Cole was not having it.


    "I''ve walked that garden so many times when you weren''t here. Now you''re back, and you expect me to keep at it? You think I can''t get enough?"


    Evangeline had not thought of that.


    Seeing her grandfather act like such a kid, however, was a first for her, and it was hrious. She could not stopughing.


    "Okay, okay, it''s all on me for not moving back sooner to join you for those garden walks."


    Evangeline believed.


    No matter how dull the view was, it was always different when he had someone to share it with. That was when she realized just how much she had been taking Cole for granted. She thus vowed she would spend more time with him from then on.


    Just then, the housekeeper came in with the chicken soup that Cole was supposed to have every day. However, instead of giving it to Cole, he handed it straight to Evangeline. Cole looked like he was about to explode with jealousy. He turned away, refusing to even nce at them.


    Without missing a beat, the housekeeper started in on Evangeline.


    "Ms. Evangeline, this chicken soup


    was specially made for Mr. Foster,


    on Mr. Yale Foster''s orders. However Mr. Fosterined about the spices and wouldn''t touch the soup. We''re at our wits'' end here. Could you please try to convince Mr. Foster?"


    Evangeline took the bowl and gave it a sniff.


    There was a hint of spice alright. Nheless, it was so subtle, practically lost in the mix of chicken and herbs.


    She


    her grandfather was just


    payorn to get the family t


    being


    more attention, to make


    visit more often...


    Tears threatened to spill from her eyes, but Evangeline fought them back, not wanting to break down in front of her grandpa.


    She stirred the soup a few times, then tasted a spoonful.


    The vor was so good that it made her stomach rumble.


    "Wow, this chicken soup is amazing! Is there any more? I''d love a bowl too."


    The servant shot Evangeline a puzzled nce but, at hermand, reluctantly headed into the kitchen to fetch the chicken soup.


    In the quiet of the living room, it was just Evangeline and Cole.


    Evangeline set the bowl in front of Cole. "Grandpa, now that we''re


    soup tastes too spicy when it smells so delicious?"


    alone, why do you say the tUpstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Cole sheepishly avoided her gaze. "It doesn''t matter how good it smells, I just don''t want to drink it."


    "But you''re not well, Grandpa. How will you get better if you don''t have your chicken soup?"


    Evangeline''s brow furrowed as she gently coaxed him in a soft, soothing voice.

 Chapter 561

    "Health? Why bother fussing over this old body?" Cole''s voice was heavy with bitterness. "Trapped in this massive, empty house all day, forbidden from stepping outside-it might as well be a prison. I''ve lived a full life, and I''m done with these bitter concoctions!" Evangeline''s eyes sparkled with understanding as she realized her hunch was right.


    Her grandfather might have thrown in the towel, but she had a trick up her sleeve.


    "Don''t you want to meet your great-grandson?" She set aside her spoon and gently patted her growing belly. "Grandpa, this little rascal is a real handful. He''s always doing somersaults inside, eager to pop out and see you!"


    Cole''s eyes lit up with a mix of joy and regret. "Of course, my great-grandson! How could that slip my mind?"


    When the maid came back, she found them in a fit of giggles and wondered what had happened. A quick nce revealed the chicken soup bowl, polished clean.


    "Ms. Evangeline, your oatmeal is ready."


    Evangeline did not even nce at the bowl, with a subtle look, she signaled for the maid to pass it to Cole.


    To the maid''s astonishment, Cole took it and devoured it eagerly, savoring every spoonful.


    With the oatmeal finished and a contented burp, Cole settled beside Evangeline.


    As she munched on fruit and got lost in her show, Cole felt the urge to ask about something that had been nagging at him.


    While Evangeline was away, his biggest concern had been her and Walter''s rtionship.


    Every time they visited, Evangeline and Walter were all smiles and sweet gestures, but Cole could not shake the feeling that something was off. He just could not rest easy without asking.


    "Evie, can I ask you something?" Cole broke the tension.


    A wave of gread crept up


    Evangeline''s spine, but she kept her


    ahead, why beat around the bush?"


    To cover up her jitters, Evangeline casually popped a piece of melon into her mouth.


    "How are things with you and Waltertely? You guys haven''t been fighting, have you?" "Ack!"


    The melon went down the wrong pipe, and Evangeline hacked away until she finally got it out. "Grandpa! Me and Walter, fighting? What made you think of that?"Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Under Cole''s watchful eye, Evangeline got serious and lifted her right hand for him to see. "Check this out. What do you think?"


    A glint of gold circled her slender wrist. It was only upon a closer look that one could make out the intricate gold bracelet.


    "A gold bracelet? That''s a new look for you. Did you just get it?" Cole eyed her with a hint of suspicion.


    "Cough, cough!" Evangeline cleared her throat, ready to show off her new find.


    "Walter and picked this out a few days ago! We even got two, nning that if we have a daughter, she and I will each


    wear one." Contest


    belongs


    "And if it''s a boy?" Cole echoed the very question Evangeline had once asked.


    Evangeline was not fazed by that question at all.


    "Walter said that if we have a boy, we can always try for another, right?"

 Chapter 562

    Evangeline tried to sound nonchnt.


    Truth was, Walter''sment had scared her more than she would admit.


    The baby she was carrying was only there because her grandfather wanted it. The thought of having another was too overwhelming to even consider.


    "Hahaha, that''s my boy! Walter, you''re the best grandson-inw a guy could ask for!"


    Cole was at that age where grandkids were his favorite thing, so he was allpliments for Walter.


    However, that did not mean his worries were gone.


    "Evie, you moved back home, and Walter hasn''t even dropped by or called. Is he upset?"


    If Evangeline''s determination to stick by Cole had caused a fight with Walter, Cole would feel guilty. He would have to convince her to move back as soon as possible! Right on cue, Julieta walked in with Evangeline''s phone ring.


    "Ms. Evangeline..." Julieta nced at the name on the screen, hesitated for a second, then said with a warm smile, "You''ve got a call from Mr. Walter Gordon." Regardless of how Evangeline felt about Walter, she had to y along in front of Cole.


    The name on the caller ID made Evangeline pause, but she quickly got a grip.


    She took the phone, not pressing the answer button just yet, but instead turned the screen to show Cole the name shing boldly.


    Walter, right next to a picture of Evangeline''s relieved and beaming smile.


    "Grandpa, you worry too much. Look, Walter''s calling right now!


    "He''s swamped with work, so how could he possibly call me on the dot every time? You need to stop sweating the small stuff, got it? Walter and I are totally fine!" Evangeline rattled off her words at lightning speed, not letting Cole get a word in edgewise.


    She only hit the answer button after she had said her piece.


    "Hey Walter, all done with work?"


    Her voice through the phone was so sweet and tender that it was like someone had stirred in a spoonful of honey.


    Walter felt a sugar overloading on.


    He had never heard Evangeline sound like that before. He double-checked the number before he could be sure it was really her.


    Evangeline had to have a good reason for that sugar act, and Walter, catching on quickly, yed along, "Yeah, all finished. And you? What are you up to?"


    Evangeline had figured she had just cooked some sweet nothings for her grandfather to overhear if Walter did not y ball. However, since she had not put him on speaker, Cole was none the wiser.


    It seemed Walter was a natural, and Evangeline''s face rxed.


    "Just hanging with Grandpa, watching television. You wouldn''t believe it, but he''s gotten hooked on this period drama-and it''s the one my best friend stars in!" Evangeline made it sound like the biggest deal ever.Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter immediately understood Evangeline''s sweet demeanor that came out of the blue; it was all for Cole''s benefit...


    "Grandpa must be bored out of his mind. You should hang out with him more when you can..."


    Evangeline''s brow creased. Thank goodness she had not hit the speaker button. Walter''sment would have totally given them away!


    "Got it, I''ve moved back to the old


    ce to keep Grandpapany et


    However, I bet it''s been tough


    on


    you. If you''re missing me, just swing by the old house, okay?"


    Evangeline was eager to show Cole just how sweet things were between her and Walter. While she was at it she slipped in the news about her move to the old house on the down low, so Walter would not identally let it slip.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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    Chapter 563


    Too bad, just as Evangeline had managed to pull it off, Cole got all awkward from their lovey dovey talk and excused himself.


    Evangeline watched Cole walk away and breathed a sigh of relief. When she picked up the phone again, her voice was icy, like she had flipped a switch.


    "Out with it, Walter, Why''d you call?"


    She was not in the mood for small talk with Walter. She owed him thanks for the call that cleared up any doubts Cole had, but getting the lowdown was way more pressing than a ''thank you'' Walter''s mouth twitched. Since when could Evangeline switch gears so fast? She was sweet one moment, and the next, a thunderstorm. He did not even get a heads-up.


    However, he had to focus on why he would call in the first ce.


    "Remember the woman we saved downtown?"


    Celina? Evangeline''s gaze faltered for a moment. "Yeah, remember. The Fosters are still keeping her safe. What''s up?"


    Not that she was itching to go into detail, but she figured Walter was already clued in on the Fosters guarding


    Celina.


    Instead of sitting around waiting to be called out, she figured she might as welle clean first. It was better to stay ahead of the game than to be caught off guard. "Thatdy is my assistant David''s girlfriend. Any chance you could bend the rules a bit and let me have a


    chat with her?"


    Evangeline heard every word Walter said, but put them all together, and it was like he was speaking anothernguage.


    What was going on there? Celina was David''s girl, so why was Walter asking to see her?


    Was that not a meeting David should be having himself?Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Walter, you lost me there. Can you sort out your thoughts and try exining that again?"


    She offered the suggestion with good intentions, but inside, she was wondering if Walter had lost his marbles.


    His words were a jumbled mess, a total shift from his usual self.


    Walter took a deep breath, finally realizing he had not made the connection between seeing Celina and David clear. No wonder Evangeline was confused.


    "Here''s the deal. David''s out of town and can''t make it back, so he asked me to meet with Celina. Evangeline, could you do me a solid for the sake of our call today?" You''ve got to hand it to Walter, the guy is sharp, Evangeline thought


    He picked up on something off in Evangeline''s voice and figured out he had identally done her a big favor. Just like that, he was angling for a ''thank you".


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    Too bad for Walter, he could only get what Evangeline was willing to give.


    "We both know exactly who Celina is, and even if she''s David''s girlfriend by some wild coincidence, she''s still his girlfriend. What''s that got to do with you?


    "Sorry, but no one can do it. I won''t meet with Celina Catch youter, Mr. Walter Gordon."


    Evangeline hung up with a sense of triumph washing over her. She felt like she could breathe again, her sphits soaring.


    However, then, curiosity crept in. Since when were Celina and David an item? How did those two even got together?


    me it on her baby break-she had missed the juiciest gossip of the century!


    She would have to grill Celina about it the next time they met.


    Right on cue, Julieta finished another call and approached her.


    "Ms. Evangeline, Ms. Morris-the woman you rescued downtown-is awake. Mr. Yale Foster said she''s been asking for you by name. Won''t talk to anyone else," Julieta reported.

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    Why would the Fosters let Evangeline walk into danger?


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    Yale only agreed to send a car for Evangeline after making sure Celina bore her no ill will. Celina was in bad shape, with a severe concussion and her neck out of whack from a car crash. She was bedridden, strapped into a brace.


    This was not like a prenatal visit. Evangeline would be in the public eye, around the clock. Yale was not worried.


    To keep Celina from flipping the script, Yale had the nurses tie her to the bed. When Evangeline walked into the room, Celina was trussed up like a Thanksgiving turkey.


    Celina knew Yale always yed it safe when it came to her well-being, but she never imagined he would go to such lengths. With her head pounding from a severe concussion, just the thought of getting out of bed felt like a brave act.


    There she was, Celina, slight and fragile. In her state, even if she had wanted to hurt Evangeline, she simply did not have the strength. What was the point of all those extra precautions?


    Evangeline, cradling her baby bump, took a seat next to Celina''s bed. Right on cue, Celina''s eyes fluttered


    open


    "You came..."


    Her voice was so raspy that it was as if she could hear theyers of despair she had been through.


    "Yeah. You did ask for me, didn''t you?" Evangeline tried to keep the mood light, but she could not help but offer somefort. "Look, I saved you, and I''m going to see this through Just focus on getting better here. And don''t worry about safety-the Fosters have got your back."


    Celina''s lips quivered, caught somewhere between a smile and a sob.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Thank you, Ms. Evangeline. I wouldn''t be here if it weren''t for you!"


    Celina''s words came out in a rush, too much for her frail body, which quickly rebelled with a fit of coughing. Evangeline was by her side in an instant, patting her back and helping her breathe easier.


    "Ms. Morris, no need for thanks, I did what anyone should do when they see someone in trouble. I would''ve done the same for anyone."


    Evangeline had noticed that ever since she got pregnant, she had be a lot morepassionate. Besides, with the Fosters wealth and power, what was one more person to help?


    "So, Ms. Evangeline, Celina finally asked, "don''t you want to know what I''ve been through?"


    Evangeline was speechless, not sure what to say next.


    She had a multitude of questions for Celina, not just about her injuries, but things like her rtionship with Julia, and why she was so desperate to see her as soon as she woke up. However, looking at Celina so frail and weak, Evangeline just could not bring herself to ask. "Let''s not worry


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    about that now. You need to focus on getting better."


    With a gentle


    wave of her hand, Evangeline helped Celina settle back onto her pillow


    "You saved my life, Ms. Evangeline. Out of everyone in Avalon City, you''re the only one I trust"


    Celina''s eyes were so intense that her simple words of trust weighed heavily on Evangeline


    "Thanks for trusting me. However, you''re still hurt..."


    "That''s okay. You saved my life. I owe it to you to exin why I ended up like this. Because I''ve been cleansed" Celina hesitated, but the words had toe out ''Cleansed was a term reserved for traitors, and it fit her perfectly. "Ms. Evangeline, believe it or not, I once saved you, and now you''ve saved me. We''re square

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    Chapter 565


    "Sure, if that makes you feel any better, I''m fine with it."


    Evangeline''s eyes twinkled, not the least bit surprised by Celina''s revtion that she had once saved her.


    Celina''s eyes widened in astonishment. "You knew all this time?"


    "Of course."


    Evangeline raised her head with a mischievous grin "You know, you almost had me fooled. Too bad the handkerchief you gave me was a little frayed around the edges-obviously a well-loved item. However, we''re not exactly at the ''sharing used stuff'' stage of our friendship, so I knew something was up. That is, until David saw the handkerchief."


    Just one look from him was all it took to prove Evangeline right.


    Of course


    "I''m not one to keep score, Celina. Just so we''re clear, I helped you because it was the right thing to do. Even if you were a total stranger lying on the side of the road, I''d have done the same."


    "Then I owe you big time." Celina''s face was ghostly, but her smile was like a lily in full bloom-delicate and pure, the kind that made Evangeline want to shield her from the world.


    "Don''t mention it. Just focus on getting better. There''s plenty of time for everything elseter."


    Evangeline''s words flowed with ease. As she got up to leave, a thought struck her, and she turned back, "Oh, by the way, are you and David an item?"


    Celina''s eyes flickered with embarrassment before a wave of icy resentment washed over her face. "What, a couple extra words and we''re dating? Please, that''s just ridiculous!"? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Her voice was raspy, but the scoff was crystal clear to Evangeline. She figured she would stay out of their love life drama.


    Considering Walter had thrown her a lifeline with that phone call, she thought delivering a message for him would square them up nicely.


    "Here''s the deal," Evangeline began, "David sent me to tell you he''s tied up with stuff overseas and can''t mak it back right now. He''s hoping Walter can drop by in his ce. I''m fine with it, but it''s really up to you. If you''re okay with seeing Walter, I can send him in whenever."


    Celina''s eyes flickered, taking in her battered and weakened limbs.


    She was a mess, having nearly lost her life. What was there for David to even look at?


    A memory shed through her mind: the car crash, and David''s face surfacing in her thoughts, a lone beaco of hope.


    However, her frantic calls to David only ever returned a chilling busy signal


    What did her feelings matter? What did love matter?.


    In that life-or-death moment, she faced despair alone, while David was unreachable.


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    175-80005


    What was the point of a guy like that? If he was not there what difference would meeting Walter make?


    "Ms Evangeline," she dered, "T''ve told the Poster family''s gentlemen before, and I''ll say it again I won''t meet with anyone else, and I won''t trust anyone else!"


    She trusted only Evangeline However, since she could it be sure of Evangeline''s true feelings, she kept her own heart guarded, waiting for a chance to gauge Evangeline''s stance


    Evangeline replied with a hint of resignation, "Okay, then I''ll turn Walter away for you"

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    Chapter 566


    Celina''s unique identity was clear as day


    Evangeline was already questioning Walter''s real reasons for wanting to see Celina.


    Things were a bit simpler, since she did not even want to see him, saving her from overthinking the whole situation for ages.


    "I guess I''ll head back, then You stay here and heal up, okay?


    Evangeline was about to get up and leave. She was in a risky spot those days, with who knew how many shady characters out there gunning for her.


    "Hold on"" Celina''s voice rang out, stopping her in her tracks "Ms Evangeline, I really don''t want to stay in this hospital Can Ie and recover at your ce?"


    The Bennison family''s purges were legendary for their ruthlessness. No one in a thousand years had ever escaped their grasp alive. She was incredibly lucky to have narrowly escaped death by the skin of her teeth With the first purge attempt botched, she knew more would follow. If she wanted to stay alive, she would have to be extra careful. Sticking close to Evangeline seemed like her safest bet


    Evangeline looked at Celina, her face creased with concern


    She was staying at the Foster family''s old mansion, which was practically a ghost town with rooms to spare and servants galore. Her grandfather was always moaning about the ce being too quiet, so having Celinae back with her would not be a big deal. However, Celina''s head injury was no joke, and her neck was not in great shape either Moving her, especially out of the hospital, was a terrible idea.


    "Do you even get how serious this is?"


    Celina gave her a look that said she did. "The doctor told me I need to be on strict bed rest, not moving a muscle."


    "So why the rush to leave with me?"


    Evangeline was baffled. Why could Celina not wait until she was back on her feet before thinking about leaving? The Fosters would always have her back, being there was just as safe as being by her side.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Celina''s piercing eyes scanned the room beforending on Evangeline. I''m the one who got away during the cleanup. Staying out in the open like this is asking for trouble.


    "Ms. Evangeline, you don''t want to see the person you rescued end up facing death anyway,


    It was a bit of a low move to say that, but Celina was out of options.


    "You''ve made your point. I''ll go find a doctor right now."


    do you?"


    It was not Celina''s desperate plea that swayed Evangeline, but her bravery in speaking the truth about her feelings.


    They had crossed paths a few times, and Evangeline could see that Celina was always on guard.


    Four hono Su sgwrs smp like that, e agroka mkunum about the test star had an Evangelina


    like most post these must be


    the stepped out of the betal and lydoctor to handle Celina''s huge


    Mark at the Feramby''s


    house they had the stacky set up a room for Celine to heal with a fly


    doctor on standby around the clock


    Everything happened as fast. Tale was the fee, but she managed to convence ham.


    What could be de Ather all, he was as she spealed the neces


    However, dimudering Callina a agusans, was the hat my thoughts of harming Evangelize, she wond? base that are capabilitie


    With Tale semigung veryffing Hosilon jar went with de toting Calin now the ''vz

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    Chapter 567


    +25 BONUS


    Holden was ready to roll the dice


    He was betting on Evangeline''s sharp eye for judging character, betting that Celina was the kind of person with a conscience, who would not bite the hand that fed her. With that, the severely wounded Celina was smoothly settled into the Foster family''s old house.


    When Evangeline got back, she found the confused Cole at the doorstep. He watched the medical team bustling in and out of Celina''s room.


    "Grandpa?" Evangeline sidled up to Cole and tugged at her grandfather''s arm.


    Cole snapped out of it and put on a show of being irritated. "Evie, since when did you start making big decisions like bringing someone home without telling me?" Evangeline knew Cole was not mad. He was just a bit miffed she had not informed him beforehand. With that, she turned on the charm. "I was just worried, you know?


    "Grandpa, you see how many docs she''s got with her? That must''ve told you how bad she''s hurt. I was scared that waiting any longer would mess with her healing.


    Cole huffed "If you''re that concerned, wouldn''t she be better off healing up in the hospital? Our ce isn''t exactly equipped like a hospital. What if something urgentes up? They''d be on it faster there." He might be getting on in years, but he was not senile. Evangeline treating him like he was clueless really got


    under his skin!


    Evangeline was super quick on her feet. She sensed her grandfather''s mood and jumped in to smooth things


    over


    "Look, I''m just really worried about her. Think about it: If I''m at the hospital with her, I can''t be here at the old house hanging out with you. That would be awful, right?


    "Oh, and Grandpa, you don''t even know who she is, huh? Her name''s Celina. You know Walter''s assistant, David? Celina''s his girl, his soon-to-be wife."


    Cole scratched his head, remembering David.


    That guy


    who''s always tagging along with Walter? He''s got that whole handsome-smart thing going


    doesn''t he?"


    He was being honest but still had to ask, "His girl? What''s she got to do with us?"


    "You see, Grandpa, David is out of town and can''t make it back. Celina got hurt, and to keep David from worrying, Walter and I figured we''d have her stay with me for a bit. I''ll look after her until David''s back, and then she''s off with him."


    Evangeline was secretly giving herself a high-five for her smooth talking.


    Spinning tales with a straight face, she was so good that she nearly fooled herself.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    However, twisting Celina''s story was the only y she had. Only by tying her to Walter could she get Cole to


    Chapter 567


    +25 BONUS


    chill about Celina showing up.


    "Well, then, we''ve got to take care of her. David might not be on the Foster family payroll, but he''s been there. for Walter. We can''t let him down."


    "Yep, I knew you''d get it, Grandpa. I was just so rushed I forgot to fill you in."


    Evangeline tried to butter Cole up, but he was not having any of it. Still, with doctors buzzing around like bees in a hive, he had to admit there was some truth to Evangeline''s ''emergency'' spiel.


    "Evie, this can''t happen again. If you''re going to bring someone home, you''ve got to give me a heads-up, okay?" Evangeline was on the verge of dodging the bullet, but bargaining then? That was out of the question.

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    Chapter 568This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Evangeline nodded with the innocence of an angel. "I premise, no more surprises!"


    The days that followed were boring, to say the least.


    At the Foster family''s old house, the two uncles were as elusive as mythical dragons, always busy and barely


    seen.


    The other three residents were all in recovery mode: one healing from sickness, one from injury, and one nurturing new life.


    Their days were reduced to eating and lounging in the sin


    Evangeline was climbing the walls with boredom, itching to roam the gardens, but Cole hadid down thew: no long walks, to protect her precious unborn cousin.


    She did not buy it. How could the baby be that fragile? However, she would not dare cross her grandfather.


    "Celina, don''t you ever get bored?"


    She sat on the couch and spotted Celina, staring out the window, lost in silence.


    When Celina did not answer, Evangeline gave her arm a yful jab.


    snowy-haired


    Celina was still young and resilient. Despite her grave injuries, she had been up and about after just a few days at the Fosters''. Her neck was still healing, so the doctors had warned her to take it easy, except for basic, needs. Celina was self-sufficient, which was a huge relief. Even Evangeline could not help but feel a little joy for her.


    However, in the blink of an eye, Celina swung her gaze toward her. "Ms. Evangeline, have you ever thought about my feelings when you say that?"


    Before Evangeline could even get a word in, Celinaunched into her own thoughts. "You at least get to wander the garden, but what about me?"


    Evangeline suddenly realized that her griping might actually be harsh.


    Just then, Cole hobbled over with his cane. "What''s the scoop, girls? Mind if this old-timer eaves


    ps a bit?"


    Cole might have grown old, but his spirit was forever young, always looking for ways to bond with Evangeline and Celina.


    Evangeline, knowing what her grandfather was up to, always tried to find exciting new stuff to share with him.


    "We''re dishing about this actress who''s been all the ragetely. Never heard of her before, but she did one show and-boom-she''s the talk of the town with killer gigs lined up."


    Evangeline suggested with a yful glint in her eye, "Hey, Grandpa, ever thought about jumping on the fan bandwagon?"


    Cole was all about keeping up with the young folks, and she was all for it.


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    Seniors had every night to chase a little happiness and fum, right? Fangirling was not just for the young!


    "Alrighty, how do you guys do it? Cole perked up, all ears


    Evangeline pondered for a moment. Maybe start with getting the lowdown on the celeb''s bio...


    "Here''s a thought Grandpa Pick a celeb you like, dig into his backstory, binge all his shows, and check if he''s got any meet-and-greetsing up


    She was mid-sentence when she suddenly cut off, gasping, "My god, I totally spaced on that, Grandpa. Don''t sweat the small stuff. What you have to do is pick out a pic of your favorite celeb and turn it into a poster for your room. It''ll be like she''s there with you every day!"


    Evangeline was sure she hadid it out in and simple, but Cole, with a few extra years under his belt, just was not catching on


    The butler, though, was grinning widely. "Just pick a star that grabs you, and I''ll handle the poster business You''ll be thrilled with the result!"


    Cole felt a wave of relief, but it did notst long before his eyebrows furrowed.

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    Chapter 569


    "How do I even find a star that grabs me?"


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    What did Evangeline even mean by ''grabs him? He was beginning to think that joining in on their youthful. shenanigans was a mistake. Could he still bail out?


    However, Evangeline was not about to let him off the hook. She took out her phone and dove into an impromptu lesson.


    Her fingers danced across the screen, tapping an icon that looked like a pair of tiny eyes, as she exined," See, Grandpa, this is WebSphere. It''s like the news but all about celebs. Just flick through this every day, and you''ll figure out which star you''re into!" With her tutorial done, Evangeline did not miss a beat. She grabbed Cole''s phone and set him up on WebSphere''s hot list.


    Back in the day, she would not have dreamed of letting Cole anywhere near the news.


    However, everything had changed. Evangeline and Walter had found a way to live in harmony, and the rumor mill had taken aplete turn. After their public disy of affection downtown, Avalon City was abuzz with the news that the Foster family''s darling Evangeline and Walter Gordon, the esteemed Mr. Gordon of the Gordon family, were head over heels in love. The whispers of a troubled marriage were dismissed as mere gossip.


    The butler, who had been wearing a look of concern, sported a beaming smile, all thanks to a reassuring nce from Evangeline.


    Cole, the picture of wisdom and insight, was fumbling with his phone like a newbie. It was a rare sight; he usually had staff at his beck and call to handle such tasks.


    Evangeline had never seen Cole let his guard down like that, acting so adorably out of his element. Clumsy as he was, he kept at it, glued to the screen.


    Nheless, his eyes sparkled with joy.


    That was exactly what Evangeline had hoped for. She wanted nothing more than to bring joy to her grandfather''s heart.


    From the moment she returned to the Foster family estate, Evangeline had been driven by a single goal: to fill Cole''s days with happiness, and if she could, to make themst forever.....


    "Grandpa, you take your time here. I''m going to help Celina back to her room," she said.


    Celina could not be exposed to the chilly air for too long, and rest was her main prescription.


    However, the moment they stepped into the room, Celina turned to Evangeline with a look that carried volumes.


    "Got a taste of your own medicine this time, huh? Teaching an old man to text and swipe what were you thinking?" Since Celina had moved in with the Fosters, she and Evangeline had grown closer. Celina was a tough girl


    susan so her words always packed a punch.


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    However, Evangeline knew there were no hard feelings She let it slide.


    "Why can''t I just stroll through the garden? It''s just babysitting a baby bump, right? Mrs. Lewis was telling me about her pregnancy days, no way she was pampered every hour of the day. She was out there, washing vegetables, hauling wood, feeding chickens, and her kid turned out just fine."


    Deep down, Evangeline felt Cole was babying the unborn baby way too much, and it was cramping her style. So, turning the tables with a smartphone seemed fair game to her.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Mr. Foster is just looking out for you, you know?"


    Celina could not help but feel a bit exasperated Evangeline, with her baby on the way, was acting more like a kid herself.


    Do all women''s brains take a backseat when they''re expecting?'' Celina thought.


    more and

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    Chapter 570


    "I get it, but isn''t it impressive to show him some new tricks?" blurted Evangeline without a second thought. Just then, the maid who was all about taking care of Celina''s meals and stuff came hustling over with a tablet, giving Evangeline a deep bow. "Ms. Evangeline,


    there''s a guy at the door asking for Ms. Morris."


    At the Foster family mansion, everyone knew Celina was no ordinary addition to their household-everyone except Cole, who was out sick. So wheh word got out that someone was asking for her, they were all on their toes.


    "Who''s at the door? Show me." Evangeline snatched the tablet from the servant, and her eyes widened at the unexpected face staring back.


    Without a word, she handed the tablet to Celina. "Your call, Celina. What do you want to do?"


    Celina, already thrown off by that surprise visit, was even more intrigued by Evangeline''s reaction.


    Then she saw him.....


    David''s face was on the screen, looking right at her.


    Celina''s eyes seemed to look right through the tablet, lost in thought, her mind a million miles away


    Evangeline, with a gentle frown, offered, "If you don''t feel like seeing him, I can just send him packing."


    That was the Foster stronghold, after all. Even David''s big-shot boss, Walter, would not dare step out of line there. Why would some errand guy think he could just barge in?


    "Tell him to leave. What''s the point? There''s nothing to talk about with someone like that." Celina''s mind. shed back to a moment of utter despair, lying on the freezing concrete, darkness closing in


    She handed the tablet back to Evangeline, turned her head to the side, and closed her eyes, signaling she was


    done with the conversation.


    Evangeline got the hint, not wanting to push it. She took the tablet and left with the maid, closing the door softly behind her.


    Celina had dozed off, but when she opened her eyes, she was met with the worried gazes of the maid and Evangeline.


    "Ms. Evangeline, what''s going on?" asked Celina, her face a mask of confusion


    Evangeline shot the maid a meaningful nce. The maid stuttered out her message, "Ms. Morris, the gentleman... he''s still here.


    "I''ve tried everything, sweet talk, tough talk, with Ms. Evangeline. Still, he''s stubborn as a mule. Says he won''t budge until he sees you.


    "You might want to think about meeting him. I peeked at the weather forecast, and it''s supposed to be frigid today, with a monster blizzard on the way. If he stays out there, he could get sick." The maid''s words were gentle, her eyes brimming with worry.


    Celina, however, just gave her an indifferent nce. "Why should I care if he gets sick? Let it snow like crazy.


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    Chapter 570


    It''ll save us the hassle of kicking him out."


    Evangeline listened to Celina''s bitter words and saw a reflection of her own past determination to keep Walter out of her life.


    However, deep down, she knew the truth: ''When you care, you care. You might fool the world, but you can''t fool your own heart.''


    Still, if Celina was happy, that was all that mattered to Evangeline.


    She nced outside at the clear blue sky, wondering where the promised blizzard was. It looked like the maid had spun a tale about the storm just to nudge Celina into seeing David. However, as fate would have it, the maid''s forecast was spot on.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    In less than 30 minutes, the sky went from sunny to stormy, and a fierce winter blizzard began to rage, the kind that could sweep her off her feet.


    Before long, snowkes the size of goose feathers started to drift down from the heavens.


    Evangeline could not help but wonder if David, who had been waiting outside, was still there or if he had taken off already.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 571

    As she reached the front gate, she saw David standing tall and defiant in the midst of the blizzard, his car parked idly by, with no sign of him leaving anytime soon. Was David willing to wait out in the cold indefinitely, all for a chance to see Celina? If so, his feelings for Celina must be profound.


    Evangeline''s heart skipped a beat as she noticed David''s face, which was a worrying shade of blue from the biting cold. If he stayed out much longer, it could spell disaster. Cole, leaning on his walking stick, noticed David too and made his way over, identally running into Evangeline. "Evie, isn''t that Walter''s guy, David? Should we let him in? "With the snowing down this hard, it''d be terrible if something happened to him."


    Both Cole and Evangeline were on the same page, yet Evangeline was torn about what to do.


    David hade for Celina, after all. If she invited him in without warning, would Celina agree to meet him?


    Just then, David''s voice cut through the storm, "Celina, please, just meet with me once! I''m begging you!"


    He was shouting at the top of his lungs, but all for naught. The Foster family''s mansion was fortified with soundproof ss, and Celina, resting inside, could not hear a thing. However, Evangeline and Cole, who hade to the door out of concern, heard him loud and clear.


    Was all that shouting in vain? It seemed like a futile effort.


    However, there was something about David''s plea that touched Evangeline, and she quietly resolved to give David one final helping hand.


    Evangeline was on the inte, about to ask the maid to sneak a message to Celina, when out of nowhere...


    "Ms. Evangeline, just say what you need to say. I''m right here," Celina''s voice cut through the air, surprising Evangeline.


    She whipped around and there was


    Celina, standing in the doorway. "Celina, what are you doing here?" Evangeline managed a nervousContent (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    buste in the middle of some


    mischief. Really, she was just`


    passing a message, not plotting some heinous crime. Why the guilt?


    As Evangeline pulled herself together, Celina spoke up again, "Let him in."


    Evangeline blinked in surprise, only to find Celina looking out the window, her face a nk te. "David is one of Walter''s guys. If he ends up sick because of the cold, that''s on you to exin," said Celina, getting straight to the point.


    Cole, who had been quietly observing, frowned.


    Was Celina not supposed to be David''s fiancee? Sure, couples fight, but why the coldness with Walter too? Since when did Evangeline need to exin a sick henchman to Walter? Something did not add up.


    Evangeline was dying to shut Celina


    up. However, she knew better than to make a scene that might raise her grandfather''s suspicions. "What do have to exin to Walter? However, are you looking to see him?" she shot back, turning the tables on Celina.


    "David had made it clear: if you didn''t agree to see him, he''d rather turn into an icicle outside than step foot through the door."


    That was exactly why she had not insisted on dragging him inside.


    Celina let her eyelids fall shut. "Fine, let''s meet. He won''t rest until we do."

 Chapter 572

    30 minutester, David, finally in fresh clothes, held a steaming bowl of soup the housekeeper had prepared and made his way to Celina''s room alone.


    He was about to knock, but the door was slightly open. Knocking lightly out of courtesy, he stepped inside.


    Celina was a shadow of herself, propped up by pillows at the head of the bed.


    "You came."


    Her eyes were empty, her gaze lowered, hiding her thoughts.


    David''s heart twisted at the sight of the brace around her neck and the healing wounds on her body. A lump of pain lodged in his throat. He tried to speak but no words came out.


    The moment he got his phone back and powered it on, he was greeted by a barrage of missed calls. Each one felt like a weight dragging him down.


    He owed Celina an apology.


    "Say what you need to-I need to rest." Celina''s voice was detached as she adjusted the nket.


    The moment she got that endless busy tone when she needed him most, she promised herself that her life would no longer include David.


    "I''m sorry..." David''s voice was tentative, his eyes brimming with regret.


    "However, it wasn''t on purpose, I really had an emergency!"


    Walter, his boss, had dumped that huge task on him out of the blue. How could he have refused?


    "I know what you were up to. No need to exin."


    Celina learned the truth from Evangeline.


    Apparently, when he was an assistant and an emergency hit, he could not just say no. However, what good did that knowledge do her then?


    If she had not bumped into Evangeline by chance, she would be six feet under, with no chance to hear David''s excuses.


    It was a moot point, really. It was time to let it go.


    "No need for apologies," she said after a moment''s thought.


    What did the apologies of a guy who had walked out of her life even mean to her? Nothing.


    "Look, David, the main reason I


    agreed to meet today was to make it clear. We''re from different worlds.


    �էݧ�


    Let''s not kid ourselves. It''s over,


    okay?"


    All she wanted was to live in her own little world, savor the few sweet memories they had, and then, bit by bit, erase him from her life.


    "No, Celina! The moment Iid eyes on you, I was a goner. You''re the one for me for life! I messed up, I know. However, I swear, there won''t be a next time!"


    David held up three fingers, as if taking an oath.


    "David..." Celina brought the nket up to her shoulders. "Do you really think I''ve got nine lives to risk waiting for your ''next time''?


    "Just go, please. Thanks."


    She was resolute. Any more of David''s pleading would only aggravate her pounding headache.


    However, he would not give up. He leaped to his feet.


    "I won''t go!" he yelled with stubborn defiance, but the sudden move was too much for him. He wobbled and crashed to the floor.


    Celina had not been watching David, just listening to his rant cut off abruptly. She turned to see him out cold on the floor. "David, what''s wrong?!"


    Celina''s scream pierced the silence


    as she instinctively tried to rise, but aContent (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    sharp pain in her neck from moving


    too quickly made her gasp and forced her back onto the bed


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Despite the pain, her first thought was to call for help.


    BUMS

 Chapter 573

    "Ms. Evangeline!" "I''m here!"


    Evangeline had been stealthily eavesdropping by the door, worried that Celina''s reunion with David might stir up too much emotion and lead to trouble. However, she had not expected Celina to be the one to cry out. Without a second thought, Evangeline burst into the room and saw David copsed on the floor.


    "Celina, what happened here?"


    Had Celina knocked David out in a sudden outburst? She had not heard any signs of a fight. If she had, she would have been in the room in a heartbeat. "Please, check on David. He just said something and then passed out!"


    Celina''s concern for David overrode theirplicated feelings. She watched him anxiously, unable to move, confined to her bed.


    Evangeline snapped to attention.


    Maybe David had gotten too cold outside and caught a chill?


    She quickly bent down and touched his forehead. The heat that met her hand made her recoil.


    "He''s burning up!"


    "What do we do now?"


    Celina was frantic, clueless about how to handle the situation. "Can the doctor who''s treating me take care of a cold?"


    "They can treat a cold, sure, but they''re out of medicine..."


    Evangeline paused. "Let''s call an ambnce. The hospital has all the gear and meds we need, so we''ll all feel better.


    "Celina, hang tight here for updates, okay? In a bit." She clenched her jaw and went on, "I''ll ride with the ambnce to the hospital and call you as soon as I can."


    Evangeline was heading out when


    Celina called out to her, "No way, Ms.


    Evangeline! You''re in too much


    danger right now. Julia hasn''t


    caught you yet, and she won''t rest until she does! Plus, you''ve got your own situation to think about.


    "Maybe I should be the one to go."


    Celina''s eyes flickered across Evangeline''s pregnant belly before she tried to stand, only to be gently pushed back down by Evangeline.


    "You need to rest and recover, not


    around. I''ll handle this


    go ruulia is plotting something,


    Even if


    she could not have set up a trap this quickly. Do not worry!


    "If we wait any longer, David''s fever might fry his brain!"


    Celina tried to protest, but Evangeline''s words stopped her in her tracks. "I''ve got David. Just rx. And could you fill in my grandfather for me?"


    Cole had a soft spot for girls. His only daughter, Yessica, had passed away too soon because of Andrew. When Evangeline came back to the Foster family, she was showered with love.


    Celina, theter orphan, had won Cole''s heart over time, just like a real granddaughter.


    Evangeline, despite her baby bump, was determined to head to the hospital. It took Celina''s assurance to convince Cole to drop his objections.Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    The Fosters'' household staff hustled David into the car, while Evangeline, for the sake of her pregnancy, climbed into another.


    Down the broad streets, the two cars raced towards the hospital, one tailing the other.


    All eyes were on David''s condition.


    Yet, unnoticed by all, a ck van slipped into pursuit just as the Fosters'' car rolled out from the family estate.


    Around a bend, the van burst forth, tailed by a pack of street racers.

 Chapter 574

    As the motorcade vanished from sight, so did Evangeline, who was inside one of the cars.


    The bodyguards arrived in a rush, exchanging bewildered nces at the scene.


    David''s health was on the line, no time for dys, but the disappearance of the Fosters'' darling princess was a dire matter!


    Back at the Foster Group headquarters...


    Yale had wrapped up a meeting and was deep in strategy talk with Hank when his phone rang with rming news from the bodyguards. "Evangeline''s gone missing?" he blurted.


    Hank went white as a sheet. "Mr. Yale Foster, what are you saying? Is Evie in trouble?"


    Hank had been meaning to catch up with Evangeline, but with the business buzzing and her pregnancy, their paths had barely crossed.


    Hearing the news about her out of the blue... She had gone missing?


    "Got it, I''m on it!" Yale managed to keep hisposure on the outside, but inside, he was fuming, his hand clutching the phone shaking ever so slightly.


    True to form, as soon as he ended the call, he could not hold back a thunderous yell, "Can''t even keep tabs on one girl, what a bunch of losers!"


    Hank was shell-shocked by the unfolding drama. After all, Yale of the Foster family was known for his unppable nature, always a picture of grace, never letting his emotions show.


    Seeing him lose hisposure like that, it was clear Evangeline''s situation was dire!


    "Mr. Yale Foster, I can''t just sit around if Evie is in trouble. What can I do to help?"


    Yale''s attention snapped back at Hank''s question, and he fought to keep his rage in check as he faced Hank. "Evie is in a bind, and I can''t focus on thepany right now. I''m leaving it all in your hands..." He gave Hank a reassuring pat on the shoulder and strode off without a backward nce.


    In the Foster Group''s security hub, the dashcam footage yed on loop, showing only a ck van whisking Evangeline away.


    The culprits had been cunning, approaching from an angle that kept the license te hidden from the camera''s view.


    Yale wasted no time, scouring the city for the same make and model, vetting each one.


    However, it was obvious that the viins targeting Evangeline were dead set on a twisted game of cat and mouse with the Fosters


    sw now


    By the time they pinpointed the suspicious van, it was toote. The van had already gone up in mes at the cliff''s edge, leaving behind nothing but a heap of ashes when


    the team arrived.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, what do we do now?" The bodyguard''s brow was furrowed in concern. They were in a real bind.


    Judging by the charred remains of


    the vehicle, the ck van must have


    sped off right after snatching Evangeline, only to self-destruet here, reducing everyst clueto cinders.


    It was clear someone had orchestrated that whole scenario.


    Yale''s hands balled into fists as he stared at the van''s scorched skeleton, his worry etched deep in his brow.


    With the van gone, their only lead was... the street racers!


    He was determined, no matter what, to bring Evangeline back unharmed.


    Just then, Holden, upon hearing of Evangeline''s disappearance, reached out to Yale,


    "Yale, Evie''s situation is critical. Do everything you can to find her. I''ll take care of things with Dad."Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    That was when Yale remembered that in his panic over Evangeline, hepletely forgot about Cole!


    The old man had just started getting better. Hearing that news could send him into a rpse. They had to keep that under wraps. Cole must not find out, no matter what!

 Chapter 575

    "Holden, Dad might be a bit out of it these days, but he can still have moments of rity. You''ve got to make sure this stays under wraps, make everyone at the Foster estate zip their lips!" "I got it, don''t worry."


    Holden felt a wave of unease. Armed with the news, he hurried back to the Foster family estate, only to find Celina and Cole casually chatting on the living room couch.


    "Mr. Foster, my fiance David caught a chill and got sick, but I can''t leave the house, so I had to ask Ms. Evangeline to take him to the hospital for me. You''re not mad, are you?"


    Celina had rehearsed that with Evangeline, but even so, she hesitated for just a second when she mentioned David''s name. Her voice, usually so strong and confident, softened without her even realizing it when she spoke to Cole. The old man, with his grandfatherly kindness, made her think of her grandfather.


    Her parents never wanted a daughter, so they left her with her grandparents right after she was born. Then, as if on cue, her grandmother got sick and passed away not long after.


    That was when people started saying Celina was bad luck, that she was a curse.


    Everyone, except her grandfather, who cherished her like the most precious gem, even though it meant shing with her dad and uncles. Her grandfather, a simple farmer cut off by his kids, worked tirelessly to raise her.


    Celina fought tooth and nail to get ahead, moving from her rural home to the county, and then to the city. She finallynded a job in the provincial capital with a sry of 225 thousand dors a year.


    She thought she would finally be able to give her grandfather a good life, but then she found out he was sick with the same illness that took her grandma, and he did not have much time left.


    However, Celina was no longer a helpless six-year-old. She had be a grown woman, and she was determined not to let her grandfather down.


    Thanks to her impressive work at the research institute, she earned her way into the Bennison family and became an official member.


    Celina''s mission was clear: harness


    the Bennison''s wealth and resources


    Create a


    miracle drug that could


    ease her grandfather''s suffering.


    Things were going great. Her natural gift had already begun to improve her grandfather''s health.


    She had imagined a future where she could live out her days peacefully by his side.


    However, Julia showed up and turned everything upside down.


    The boss was head over heels for Julia, and all of them could see it, though nobody could figure out what kind of spell she had cast on him.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Before she knew it, Celina was reassigned to be Julia''s personal assistant, at her beck and call, no questions asked.


    Thus, she had to leave her grandfather behind and start anew in the strange city of Avalon.


    Whenever she saw Cole, she could not help but be reminded of her grandfather. The love for her family had softened her, giving her an aura of warmth and kindness.


    Just like Evangeline had guessed, Cole hade to see Celina as his granddaughter. With the Foster family looking out for so many, even a pregnant Evie bustling about was safe from harm. Cole could rest easy.


    swnov

 Chapter 576

    "Yeah, Evie should be okay. However, David, the poor kid, is sick, and we''ve got no news on him. You need to take care of yourself right now, and don''t stress. Evie''s got things under control, and she''ll call as soon as there''s any word from David." Cole wrapped an arm around Celina, offering her aforting squeeze that sent warmth flooding through her. In the midst of that, Celina''s mind flickered to the mission Evangeline had left with her grandfather.


    "Mr. Foster, have you found your favorite celebrity yet? Since we can''t do much else, let''s try to track down the star you''re into. That way, when Ms. Evangeline gets back, she can show you what to do next." Pushing down the flutter of anxiety in her chest, Celina shed Cole a brave smile.


    "Yeah, could you give me a hand? Let''s start by tapping this icon, and then..."


    Together, the two huddled on the couch, fingers dancing over the smartphone''s screen, which was disying WebSphere.


    Holden watched the tender scene unfold before him, a sense of warmth blooming in his chest.


    His father, it seemed, was finally getting on board with thetest trends.


    As for the troubling news of Evangeline''s disappearance, Holden had made sure it was locked down tight. No whisper of it would reach Cole''s ears, not even if he scoured the Inte.


    Once Holden grasped what they were up to, he could not resist joining the quest to help Cole find his idol...


    Meanwhile, in the hospital, David''s fever spiked to a worrisome 39 degrees Celsius, leaving him in a hazy state of delirium.


    The bodyguards stood by, watching David slowly recover with the help of an IV drip. They could not stop themselves from muttering their concerns.


    "What a mess this is. We went to save this guy, and now we''ve lost our Ms. Evangeline. What are we going to do when we get back..."


    In his daze, David''s eyes fluttered open.


    What did he just hear? The Foster family''s Ms. Evangeline was missing?


    Evangeline Foster... that was her, was it not?


    The news hit him like a bolt of lightning, and he shot up in bed, his feverish body suddenly charged with energy.


    "You''re telling me Evangeline''s gone missing?! How did that happen?"


    If Evangeline was in danger because of him, if she had fallen into the wrong hands... How would he ever face Walter? He was not even supposed toe back this time.


    However, Walter had a soft spot for his worry over Celina and made an exception for him to see her just one more time...


    The bodyguard was seriously annoyed with David, the guy they med for Evangeline''s disappearance.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "What do you think happened? We lost Ms. Evangeline because we were busy taking you to the hospital! David, if anything happens to Ms. Evangeline, the Fosters will never


    forgive you!"


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Just then, the other bodyguard


    nudged him sharply in the arm.


    you qu


    it with the doom and


    �ۤ�


    gloom? Ms. Evangeline is tough,


    she''ll be fine!"


    up


    It was as if the nudge woke him He smacked his lips in frustration "Yeah, yeah, you''re right. I should'' just shut my trap. Ms. Evangeline''s going to be just fine!"


    A secondter, they both turned to David as if on cue.


    "Now that you''re up, our job here is done. You can handle things from here, can''t you?"


    The man''s tone was harsh, leaving David with no room to argue.


    "Let''s go find Ms. Evangeline, then..."


    The bodyguards dashed away as David scrambled to find his phone, dialing Walter''s number in a panic.


    "Boss, it''s Mrs. Gordon... She''s vanished!"

 Chapter 577

    Walter was in the middle of a meeting, but he did not care that the top management was still around. He bellowed in disbelief, "What did you just say?! How on earth could Evangeline just disappear?" He wrapped up the meeting in a hurry and sent out his entirepany''s workforce, vowing to find Evangeline no matter the cost.


    The news made him instantly think of Julia.


    Julia had always been irked by Evangeline, treating her like a constant pain. With her parents gone and no family to speak of, Julia was like a wild card, unpredictable and unafraid.


    However, what worried Walter more was whether Julia was acting out of pure spite or if the Bennison family was pulling the strings.


    Everything he knew about Julia and the Bennison family was just guesswork. He had never found any solid proof of a scheme between Julia and the Bennison family.


    Of course, all those concerns paled inparison to finding Evangeline. The thought of the baby Evangeline was carrying sent a shiver of urgency through him. He had to find her, and fast!Text content ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In a quiet corner of the lively streets, a tall figure in a ck trench coat gazed at the office building a short distance away, his lips twitching with concern. "Cuddly Cutie, you''re always trying to be the hero. With something this huge going down, why didn''t you call for backup?


    "You might not want me barging into your life, but there''s no way I could just watch you walk into a trap."


    If Trey were there right then, he would totally recognize the man.


    It was Thomas, Trey''s buddy''s grandson.


    He was also Snow Wolf, the online pal Evangeline''s never actually met face-to-face.


    Back at Gordon Group''s headquarters, Walter was scrambling like crazy, trying to figure out where Evangeline had vanished.


    Then, out of the blue, his phone buzzed with a cryptic text.


    [Evangeline is at the old warehouse, number 226, on the city''s outskirts.]


    Walter could not shake the message


    his mind. He had no clue wh


    sent it, but his gut told him that was not the work of a viin.


    belongs to en.NovelDrama.Org


    However, that ce...


    The old warehouse, number 226, on the city''s outskirts. He had not set foot there in ages.


    Thest time was when he had his crew drop Julia off in Northern Montavia.


    He had had his suspicions, but then the location was a dead giveaway. He knew who was behind that. Julia!


    She had picked that spot to make Evangeline suffer, to make her go through the same hell she did.


    This was payback. Payback aimed at Evangeline, and at herself too.


    Payback meant Julia was off the rails. Who knew what kind of twisted thing she might do to Evangeline? Walter checked the time again. Three hours had passed since Evangeline disappeared.


    Time was running out.


    ...


    In front of an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of town, a sleek white luxury car rolled to a stop, and the bodyguard at the door walked up with a respectful bow, opening the car door.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Julia stepped out, her red heels clicking on the pavement. She adjusted her dark sunsses and gave a quick nce to the bodyguard.


    "Is the person inside?"


    The bodyguard nodded. "Tied up, just like you wanted."


    Ov


    Julia flicked her chewing gum to the ground and made her way into the warehouse. Darkness enveloped the ce, broken only by the weak glow of a few scattered lights.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 578

    Julia knew that scene by heart; it was etched into her memory forever.


    There was no fond remembrance, no sense of reunion, just a surge of hatred that filled her heart.


    The first time, it was Walter''s goons who dragged her there. She was bound and helpless, tied to an old, rusty bed. Ignored by everyone, those men left her there, alone on that cold bed, drowning in a sea of despair.


    How ironic.


    Back then, Julia knew nothing, still naively hoping Walt woulde to her rescue.


    Eventually, Walt did show up... but not to save her. He was the one who sent her tumbling into a new kind of hell.


    A hell far worse than that rusty bed.


    Julia''s steps were deliberate, slow, as if she was measuring the warehouse with her feet.


    She stopped only when she reached a narrow iron door.


    Julia''s lips twisted into a wicked grin as she pictured the scene inside. She could not believe Evangeline''s turn of fate.


    She fought back a snicker, put her shoulder into it, and shoved the door open.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    The room was a st from the past, just like when she was the one in ropes. The same rickety metal bed stood there, looking even more worn than before, if that was possible. However, there was one major change.


    This time, it was not Julia tied to the bed it was Evangeline.


    "Well, well, if it isn''t the Foster family''s darling princess. It''s been a while..."


    Julia, heels clicking, moved toward Evangeline step by step.


    She was so giddy with joy that she could almost scream. Maybe it was seeing Evangeline sprawled on the bed like a b of meat?


    Or perhaps it was knowing that Evangeline''s fate-alive or dead, saint or sinner-was all in her hands?


    Evangeline had been tied up for what felt like forever, wondering if Julia was her saboteur. When the door swung open, she got her answer.


    "Julia, why go through all this trouble to kidnap me?"


    "Hahaha!"


    Juliaughed heartily, then squinted her eyes.


    Fitx


    "Kidnap you? I wouldn''t dream of it You, my dear sister Evangeline, are the cherished princess of the Foster family. Such a lofty title-I wouldn''t dare." , NovelDrama.Org


    QUMS


    Her voice dripped with feigned innocence, but in the next instant...


    "So I was like, ''Please, guys''. But you know how it is, Evangeline. These goons don''t know how to hold back, and Dwas out of options, right?"


    Evangeline watched Julia put on her innocent act, feeling a wave of queasiness threatening to spill out. She fought it down.


    "Cut the act, Julia. It''s over. You say ''please'', but look at me. This is your handiwork, isn''t it?"


    She thrust out her bound wrists for Julia to see.


    One thing was crystal clear-if Julia had not given the word, no one would darey a finger on her, not with her reputation in Avalon City.


    "Out with it. What''s your endgame?"


    swnve


    She never thought that just taking David to the hospital wouldnd her in Julia''s trap, yet there she was, shackled to a frigid metal cot.


    Not a second went by that Evangeline felt safe, wondering what that mess would mean for her and the baby she was carrying. Grandpa...


    If he found out she was snatched by Julia, it might just break him.

 Chapter 579

    Conrad had warned her that Cole''s health was hanging by a thread, only kept stable by the Foster family''s constant care. He could not handle another blow.


    She prayed silently, desperately hoping Cole would stay in the dark about her kidnapping.


    However, Julia, pacing around the cot, was deaf to Evangeline''s heart''s cries, stopping ominously by her side.


    Winter had wrapped its chilly fingers around the world, and Evangeline was bundled up inyers of clothes. Yet, Julia''s eyes cut through the fabric, fixating on the obvious bump that marred the silhouette. A surge of unprecedented loathing bubbled up within her. Why was it Evangeline who got to have Walter''s baby, while she, despite all her efforts, had not even gotten close to him?


    Julia''s manicured fingers paused their primping, drifting over to rest on Evangeline''s stomach, stroking it ever so lightly.


    The thickyers muffled the sensation, but Evangeline could feel each of Julia''s touches, sending shivers down her spine, her face growing ashen.


    Trapped, with her limbs bound to a frigid metal bed, Evangeline could only crane her neck to catch glimpses of Julia''s actions.


    Ever since they were kids, Julia had a knack for taking what was hers-her plush toys, her violin, and then, her man.


    The moment Julia''s eyes hadnded on Walter, she had started to flirt shamelessly.


    Seeing Evangeline pregnant with Walter''s child, how could Julia not seethe with envy?


    Fear for her unborn child made Evangeline''s voice quiver. "Do whatever you want to me, Julia, but if you harm my baby, I swear, I''ll haunt you beyond this life!" However, her threats fell on deaf ears, met only with Julia''s scornfulughter.


    "You''re like a ghost, unable to release your grip on me. Evangeline, don''t kid yourself! You''re totally at my mercy now, just waiting for me to decide your fate.


    "I''m just not sure where to begin..."


    Julia''s eyes roamed over Evangeline, and she could not help but make an appreciative sound.


    "Such a figure such skin, you must be quite the catch, huh? Evangeline, you''re a real knockout. They say pregnancy is supposed to make women lose their looks, but you, you''ve barely changed at all, except for the baby bump..."


    Julia''s tone was so casual as if she were merely catching up with Evangeline on old times.


    However, the more nonchnt she acted, the more terrified Evangeline felt. She sensed that it was just the quiet before the storm.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She was in Julia''s clutches, and Julia was simply not rushing to make her move...


    "Julia, we have no bad blood between us. Why are you always after me?"


    She remembered not being very kind to Julia''s mom, Lydia, when they were kids, but Evangeline had always tried her best to look out for Julia. That was until she realized Julia had a habit of snatching away the things she cherished. From that point on, she could not muster a shred of warmth for her half-sister.


    "No bad blood?" Julia''s lips twisted into a smirk. "Evangeline, I''m really wondering how you can say that with a straight face.


    "We''ve been sworn enemies for ages, and now you''re talking about no bad blood?"


    Herughter broke through the tense air.


    With that, Evangeline knew for sure that Julia hadpletely lost it.

 Chapter 580

    "Come on, tell me, when have I ever not stepped aside for you? Anything you wanted, I never evenid a finger on it!" Evangeline tried to talk sense into Julia, keeping her voice as even as possible. "Besides, it''s always been you who''s taken more from me, hasn''t it?" However, the moment she said that, Julia''s eyes lit up like a spark had ignited within them, shining with an intense fire. "I took what''s yours? Evangeline, don''t you get it? All those things were meant to be mine from the start, none of it was ever yours!"N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    It was like she was echoing her mother, Lydia. "If it weren''t for you and your mother, how would I have ended up the secret butt of jokes, the so-called ''illegitimate'' kid everyone sneered at for years? And if it weren''t for you, wouldn''t I have picked up my beloved violin way sooner?" It was downright maddening!


    Evangeline''s hands balled into tight fists as she shot back, "Did you ever stop to think that if it weren''t for you and your mom, the three of us could still be living happily together? You talk about beingughed at, but what about me? I was just a kid when I lost my real mom, and now I''ve lost my dad too..." The memories rushed past like scenes from an old movie, with her dad''s dying wishes still ringing in her ears.


    Too bad he only thought of the protection Evangeline had from the Fosters, never imagining then it would be Julia tying him up, leaving him defenseless.


    "You dare to bring that up? Evangeline, don''t you feel a twinge of guilt when you talk about Dad? You were the one who sent him to court, and now you want to y the heartbroken daughter?


    "You''re the reason my parents are gone, and now you show up pretending to care? Evangeline, I''ve got to hand it to you-you really surprised me!" Julia spat out the words with venom.


    "Do you have any idea what it''s like? Since my parents died, I''ve been haunted by nightmares every night see them, drenched in blood, screaming for me to get revenge. Can you even grasp how much I''ve suffered?"


    Was Julia really pinning the me for Andrew and Lydia''s deaths on Evangeline just because she was in so much pain? That made no sense.


    Evangeline was stunned. She had always thought Julia, despite Lydia''s less-than-ster parenting, could still think for herself. s, it was clear that Julia had been faking all along, and this bitter, vengeful person was the real deal.


    "Andrew and Lydia dug their own graves. They poisoned my mother, and they got what they deserved. How is any of that my fault?


    "And another thing, Julia-do you really miss your parents as much as you say you do?


    "If you did, why didn''t youe when he begged you to see him onest time? Why did you ignore his calls?"


    The memory of Andrew''s anguished face when he spoke of Julia''s refusal toe twisted Evangeline''s heart in knots. Why did she long for her father''s love when he only ever had eyes for Julia? Maybe that was just how life went. The things she wanted the most were always just beyond her reach.


    "I have my reasons," Julia said with a sneer, her eyes glinting with icy disdain.


    "Besides, you''re the one who


    dragged them into court. What good would it do if I showed up? To wrap my arms around my parents, who adore me, and sob my heart out? Why make us all miserable together?"

 Chapter 581

    Julia had toyed with the idea of onest visit to her parents. However, she just did not have the guts.


    That was exactly why her anger at Evangeline burned even hotter. She med Evangeline for wrecking her entire life!


    Evangeline was so enraged that she was at a loss for words.


    She finally understood that she and Julia were way past the point of talking things out.


    "Julia, let''s face it, the past is done. My dad and your mom are in heaven now. There''s no point in us fussing over their old troubles.


    "You''re after Walter, right? Well, here''s the straight truth. My marriage to Walter has been dead in the water for ages. I only decided to have this kid because my grandfather got sick. And the only reason we haven''t signed those divorce papers is because of him." She took a deep breath and forced herself to get it all out. That was thest thing Evangeline wanted to admit, but she had no choice.


    She had to make it crystal clear that she and Walter were history, that she would never be Julia''s love rival again. That was the only way she and her baby might make it out okay.


    However, what Evangeline did not realize was that her words felt like a p in the face to Julia.


    Walter had cut Evangeline out of his life, but he still would not give Julia the time of day. That was the harsh, undeniable truth.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Julia stared at the honest look on Evangeline''s face and wanted to rip it to shreds. However, she did not.


    Evangeline was right where Julia wanted her, and there was no need to rush. Julia had all the time in the world to decide her next move...


    Out of nowhere, a chilly hand touched Evangeline''s cheek. She jerked her head up and locked eyes with Julia, who was smirking like she knew a secret joke.


    "You know, Evangeline, you got one thing right-I''m still crazy about Walter."


    If Walter decided right then that he wanted to be with her forever, she would give up anything. Anything at all.


    However, a tidal wave of memories crashed over her, leaving Julia drowning in a sea of letdowns and heartache.


    She was head over heels for Walter, sure, but did he ever really see her?


    No way she was going to stand for that!


    How could she just ept that the guy she was so into had never really been hers?


    "But you know what I like even more than Walter? Messing with you. You''ve got a thing for Walter too, right, sis?" Her eyes dropped to the bump on Evangeline''s belly.


    "They say if a woman''s willing to


    have a guy''s baby, that''s all the proof you need she loves him. You keep saying you and Walter are done, but you m up about how you feel.


    Isn''t that all the proof


    Julia''s grip on Evangeline''s face tightened, her eyes turning creepier than ever.


    "How do you think it''d feel, watching me and Walter get cozy right in front of you? Think it''d be agony?


    "Imagine it��me, all soft and sweet, in Walter''s arms, getting the kind of mind-blowing joy he used to give you..." Julia''s grin got wider with every word, and she even closed her eyes in delight. "Man, that would be one heck of a show."


    Evangeline''s stomach churned as Julia''s words painted a vivid picture in her mind, one where Walter''s fiery kisses and caresses were meant for Julia. She felt sick at the thought.


    "Why should I care about you and Walter? Keep your drama to


    yourself, Julia. If you two want


    put


    on a show for me, I''d rather not watch-it''s just too much."


    However, Julia''s heart had already skipped a beat.

 Chapter 582

    Still, there was one thing she was not sure about.


    "Evangeline, do you think Walter wille rescue you all by himself? He has to, right? If not for anything else, then at least for the baby you''re carrying. He wouldn''t want you to die here all alone..." The more Julia thought about it, the more thrilled she became. With a sharp snap of her fingers, the bodyguard approached with utmost respect.


    "Silence her."


    She could not stand to listen to Evangeline anymore, not even a whisper.


    Meanwhile, Walter, racing toward the abandoned warehouse, was startled by a strange number shing on his phone. It was Julia''s voice that greeted him when he answered.


    "My dear Walt, you must be so worried. Missing me, are you?"


    Walter was frantic and fuming, quickening his pace, struggling to keep hisposure.


    "Where have you taken Evangeline? Julia, if youy a finger on her, you''ll regret it!"


    However, Julia was no longer intimidated by his threats.


    "So, you''re not scared that Evangeline might die by my hand? Seems like you''re not that fond of her after all. Hahaha!"


    Julia pulled the phone away, but her voice was so shrill that Walter heard every word crystal clear.


    "Sweet, sweet Evangeline, can you hear me now? You''re in the clutches of someone who despises you, who''d be thrilled if you dropped dead this second. And the guy you thought you''d have a family with? He doesn''t care about you one bit and is even trying to y tough with me!"


    The second Walter heard Evangeline''s name, he was on edge.


    "Evangeline, are you there? Just say something, I''lle and save you right now!"


    Julia''sugh was wild and mocking as she pressed the phone to her lips. "Save your breath. Evangeline''s been nothing but screams and cries, driving me nuts, so I shut her up for good.


    "And Walter, don''t bother with your threats. The Julia who used to be head over heels for you, scared of losing you, she''s gone. Now she knows you''ve given your heart that wretch Evangeline! She couldn''t handle that hit, so she''s not scared of you anymore!"


    After her piercing rant, Julia''s tone suddenly mellowed.


    "Let me tell you why I called. It''s simple.


    "You see, I''ve always wanted to be with you, but neither Minnie nor I ever had the chance. So here''s the deal: if you want Evangeline to livee alone to the old warehouse at 226 on the outskirts of town. Make me happy right in front of her. If I''m pleased, I''ll let you both go."


    Despicable! Absolutely despicable!


    Evangeline was bound to a cold metal table, her fists balled up in silent fury. The adhesive over her mouth reduced her voice to nothing more than frustrated whimpers. She felt utterly powerless, forced to overhear Julia''s taunting words to Walter.


    "Trading one woman for another, especially one you''re into, sounds like a sweet deal, doesn''t it, my Walt? So... are you in or what?


    "And just so you know, if you want Evangeline and the littleThis content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    troublemaker she''s carrying to make it out alive, don''t even think about getting sneaky and calling the Cops! You''re aware of the Bennison family''s reach, aren''t you?"


    For Walter, it was a shock to hear the Bennison name fall from Julia''s lips for the first time.


    It confirmed his worst fears: Julia was backed by the Bennisons, the same family that had been hungrily eyeing the Fosters and Gordons.

 Chapter 583

    With Evangeline''s life hanging in Julia''s hands, Walter felt he had no choice but to y along with whatever she demanded. "Fine, I''m on my way."


    "No!" Julia''s voice was firm. "Walt, it''s our ''wedding night'', and we''ve got an audience. You''ve got to look sharp, don''t you think? If you don''t dazzle me, I might just have second thoughts. I can wait, so take your time getting ready." Julia was clearly savoring the control she had, making Walter jump through hoops for her amusement.


    "Okay."


    Walter''s response was immediate.


    If it meant saving Evangeline, he would do anything, even if it meant ying dress-up for Julia''s twisted game.


    Walter''s mind was buzzing with questions about the sender of that cryptic text.


    The message had pinpointed the location perfectly and seemed to carry a vibe of kindness toward Evangeline. Who could be looking out for her from the shadows? Was it a guy or a woman?


    However, Walter was not sweating the details. If they were on Evangeline''s side, they were alright in his book.


    Meanwhile, the Fosters searched everywhere for Evangeline and came up empty. Because of some old drama with Julia, they zeroed in on Walter as suspect number one.


    The second Walter''s phone lit up and he heard Yale''s voice, it was like a firecracker on the other end.


    "Walter, what have you and Julia done with Evie? If she''s hurt, I don''t care if you''re Walter Gordon of the high and mighty Gordon family, you''re going to wish you were never born!"


    His heart twisted for his smart, sweet niece. Why did she always get the short end of the stick, with not a single slice of happiness since she was little?


    Walter knew right away that Yale had it twisted, thinking he was in cahoots with Julia. Sure, they had had their wild days, but that was old news.


    He tried to get a word in, "Mr. Yale Foster..."


    However, Yale refused to listen. "Cut the crap, Walter. Where''s Evie?"


    Yale was the kind of guy who stayedposed no matter what.


    l.ne


    However, with Evie''s safety on the


    of


    line, he was a storm His


    eyes, red and raw, said it all.


    Evangeline was the niece Yale adored more than anyone else. She was linked to two other lives, and if he counted Cole''s, that was three.


    The weight of it all was crushing. He was determined to make sure Evangeline came back without a scratch.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll make sure Evangelinees back in one piece!"


    Walter knew that words were empty at a time like that.


    Only when Evangeline was back, alive and kicking, could everyone who cared for her breathe a sigh of relief.


    He longed to tell Yale that everything between him and Julia was just an act, without any real intimacy. However, the thought of Julia''s terms for letting Evangeline go made him pause. NovelDrama.Org


    He would not go near that vile woman unless it was thest resort.


    If Evangeline and the child''s lives were on the line, he was not sure what he would do...


    Standing in front of the bright mirror, Walter stared at his reflection, his emotions a tangled mess.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    His usual ck suit, ck shoes, and hair he had barely touched.


    He was not exactly dressed to impress; it was more like he could not be bothered.

 Chapter 584

    However, what could he do? The thought of Julia, the thought of his true love Evangeline trapped by that witch, sapped all his will to care about his appearance. Walter slowly lifted his hand, brushing his chin.


    Overnight, his face had sprouted a rough stubble, making him look worn and nothing like the dashing Mr. Walter Gordon of the Gordon family.


    Was Walter the kind of guy Julia would be happy with?


    He was not sure, but just putting on a clean shirt to see Julia who made his skin prickle was pushing it for him.


    Walter kept his calm and did not bother calling the police. After all, when he was part of the mighty Gordon family, he did not need the police to handle ady.


    Once he had set up the rescue team for Evangeline, Walter hit the road solo, heading to the spot they had picked out.


    Warehouse 226, just outside the city, was like a st from the past.


    Taking over thepany from Alex had not been a walk in the park. The old guard did not take kindly to change, and Alex''s loyalists were always griping about their beloved second-inmand. Walter''s solution for the rebels? A trip to warehouse 226 for a ''persuasion session''. Sure, it was rough, but it worked like a charm, and soon enough, they all fell in line.


    However, as thepany got its act together and profits soared, the troublemakers zipped their lips. Walter''s visits to the warehouse dropped off until he just let the ce go. That was when Julia saw her chance.


    Walter shoved open the big warehouse door. Inside, everything looked the same but felt different-more run-down than he remembered.


    He strode to the back room, the very ce where Julia had once been held captive.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    However, just as he was about to swing the door open, a skinny figure stepped in his way.


    "Walt, don''t you think it''s a bit rude to barge in without asking?"


    Julia''sughter rang out, light and teasing. She stood there in a slinky, bright red dress that hugged her curves, her hair tossed up in a carefree knot. She was the picture of glowing confidence.


    Walter raised an eyebrow. "And who''s supposed to be in charge here?"


    With a yful twirl, Julia pointed at herself, her eyes sparkling with mischief.


    "Of course, right here."


    Walter could not help but smirk.


    They were in an old warehouse owned by Gordon Group, yet Julia was acting like she owned the ce. She was more like a squatter than a queen, and she had the nerve to boast.


    "Since when is this ce called Rearden? Must''ve missed the memo," Walter quipped, his tone dripping with sarcasm. Julia''s smile faltered, but before she could retort, he added, "But let''s not dwell on that. I''m here now, so how about showing me what I''ve won before we get


    down to business?"


    Walter never thought, in his wildest dreams, he would be ying the gigolo. However, unlike the ones who did it for cash, his payout was the safety of his family.


    Julia''s hand Hightly touched his


    shoulder. Hold your horses. The


    main event will kick off soon enough, and she''ll show up. Until


    then, why don''t we break the ice with


    a dance?"


    en NovelDrama.Org


    Julia was still seething from that disastrous dinner on the cruise ship, a night ruined by a single ss of wine and that snake Evangeline walking away with everything.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 585

    Just thinking about it infuriated Julia, so she was determined to get even with Walter. She was determined to relive every moment she had dreamed of sharing with Walter.


    Julia snuggled into Walter''s embrace, a little bird seekingfort, as the smooth melody of a waltz filled the air.


    They danced to the rhythm of the music, Julia pouring her heart into every move, her grace in stark contrast to Walter''s more rxed approach.


    Lost in the dance, Julia''s mind drifted back to the time when she had first stepped into Evangeline''s shoes to save Walter. He had been so tender and careful with her, his voice so soft as if he feared she might break into tears. Walter''s gentle murmur tickled her ear, sending her into a sweet daze.


    "Julia, do you like how I look today?"


    As Walter spoke, his gaze was not on her but scanned the surroundings. He knew Evangeline was supposed to be watching, hidden somewhere close by.


    He knew that abandoned warehouse like the back of his hand, but with its maze of rooms, finding Evangeline without alerting Julia was a tricky task.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Pinpointing Evangeline''s location was key to the rescue.


    Julia leaned her head against Walter''s shoulder, her eyes shimmering as they met him. His rugged good looks, entuated by the shadow of stubble on his chin, left her utterly enchanted.


    "I love it, absolutely love it."


    Truth be told, Julia would adore Walter in any attire. Whenever he did something special for her, Julia''s world lit up with joy.


    Little did she know, Walter, who had been watching everything with eagle eyes, was growing restless, craving more than what he had.


    However, as fate would have it, the waltz picked up pace, signaling a chance just around the corner.


    With the music guiding them, Walter whisked Julia away with a flurry of elegant steps to a new corner of the room.


    The ce was dripping with opulence, but it was the bold red curtain that stole the show, standing out like a beacon.


    Walter zeroed in on it, and Julia''s heart swelled with emotion.


    "Walt, you really do hold a ce for me in your heart."


    Her voice was thick with feeling as she


    le could not hold back any I


    into Walter''s embrace and


    g to him.


    Caught up in the moment, she missed the flicker of something unsaid on Walter''s lips.


    He was baffled by how he had led her to believe he felt something he did not.


    However, seeing her guard down, thinking he was smitten, he knew that was his moment to strike...


    As the waltz neared its grand finale,


    Julia twirled blissfully in Wale


    arms, Ker hand identally


    unveiling the grand red bed hidden behind the curtain.


    That was the love nest Julia had dreamt up for her and Walter.


    They spun until suddenly, Walter felt the world tip, and they tumbled onto the bed, with Julianding softly on top


    f him. Content belong Et


    Her voice, sultry and hopeful, whispered in his ear, "Walt, do you like what you see?"


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 586

    "Do I... even have the right to say I''m not satisfied?"


    Walter had not forgotten why he was there, not for a second.


    He arched an eyebrow, his smile a mix of mischief and warmth, but his hand was firm, keeping a careful distance between him and Julia.


    Julia stroked his cheek with a tenderness that belied the cruelty of her words, her fingers tracing the rough stubble on his chin.


    "Of course... not," she said, her voice dripping with malice.


    With a sudden flourish, she lifted her head and with a flick of her wrist, the crimson drapes tumbled to the floor.


    Behind a pane of ss, Evangeline was tied up, her eyes wide with fear, her mouth sealed shut. Her belly was still round, a sign that the baby was safe for the time being. Walter''s heart eased, if only just a bit. "Mm mmh mmph!"


    The ss was thin, so Walter could hear every muffled sob from Evangeline.


    Her hair was a mess, and a dark bruise marred her forehead-a clear sign of Julia''s rough handling.


    The thought of what might be hidden from view, the unseen injuries, sent a wave of both heartache and fury crashing through Walter. His grip on Julia''s waist tightened involuntarily.


    "Ouch."


    Julia''s gasp was theatrical as she nestled closer into Walter''s chest.


    "Feeling sorry for her?" she purred. "I hate to break it to you, but you should know this ss is no ordinary ss. If it breaks, the shards are deadlier than knives. And your precious Evangeline is right behind it. If you try to bust her out, you might not kill her, but her face... let''s just say she won''t be pretty anymore."


    Her voice took on a taunting edge. "I wonder, Walter, if her beauty is ruined, would you still care for her?"


    Her lips sketched a path along Walter''s face, turning the scene into something straight out of a forbidden romance.


    However, when Walter locked eyes with Evangeline, all he could see was sheer panic.


    "Mm mmh mmph!"


    That sound echoed once more.


    Evangeline had let out that same three-note whimper twice then.


    Walter thought she was pleading for a quick rescue. However, the more she repeated those notes, the more he sensed something was terribly wrong.


    Just then, the voice of the Gordon family''s bodyguard crackled through the tiny earpiece.


    "Sir, our team has discovered-"


    The message was about to reveal something crucial when it fizzled into static.


    Walter''s sharp eyes caught Julia yanking out her own earpiece and, with a defiant re, she smashed it to bits.


    "Walter, leave these gadgets behind next time. They''re pointless."


    With the outside world cut off, it was all on Walter to save Evangeline.


    However, Julia was not about to give him a moment to strategize.


    had been waiting for that night ne


    too long and was determined to savor it.


    "Walt, let''s get this party started."


    As she popped the buttons open one by one, Walter''s focus remained on Evangeline.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    He caught her urgent nces, silently directing him to look somewhere specific.


    Seizing a moment when Julia was distracted, Walter lifted his eyes and spotted a tiny secret door behind the ss near Evangeline. He realized that must be how Evangeline had slipped in.


    "Julia, let''s spice things up a bit, shall we?" said Walter with a sly grin, his eyes sparkling with a mischievous light that made his intentions crystal clear.

 Chapter 587

    Julia noticed that spark in his gaze and knew exactly what he was hinting at the kind of excitement she was hoping for. Her cheeks turned a rosy pink, and she covered them with her hand, her curiosity piqued. "What do you have in mind?" "Just wait and see..." Walter said with a teasing smile, smoothly slipping off his tie. He leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear. "This is our wedding suite, right? I owe you an unforgettable first night as a married couple."


    His voice was deep and smooth, like velvet, and it sent shivers down Julia''s spine. She was already head over heels for Walter, and she was ready to dive into the thrill he promised. She had no idea Walter could be so bold and adventurous.


    In an instant, she felt herself being gently turned over, then lying on her stomach on the bed. Julia thought it was just one of Walter''s yful moves and offered no resistance.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Even as her hands were gently secured behind her back with the silky tie, she did not worry. She yfully chided him, "Walt, what are you up to now?"


    Walter leaned in closer, his lips brushing against her ear, then flushed with anticipation. "Not your style?" he murmured, his voice low and enticing.


    However, Walter was not just all talk. He expertly wrapped the tie around Julia''s wrists, securing it with a firm knot, before he confidently moved back, ready for their next adventure. "Julia, looks like you''ll be spending our wedding night by yourself!" Walter dered from above to Julia, sprawled on the bed.


    With the agility of a panther, he sprang from the bed and sprinted towards the hidden door.


    ''Evangeline, hang on, I''ming to rescue you!''


    However, as he reached the door, his heart sank. The small iron door stood ajar, its lock clearly tampered with. Evangeline was nowhere to be found.


    Walter''s energy seemed to be sapped by an invisible force, and he crumpled to the cold concrete floor in defeat.


    The earpiece for outside


    l.ne


    Fueled by a surge of determination, Walter leaped back onto the bed, seized Julia''s bound wrists, and demanded, "Out with it! Where did you stash Evangeline this time?"


    His face was a mask of fury, and he


    was past caring that Julia was a woman. If she did not have the key to finding Evangeline, he might have choked the life out of her right then and there.  en


    "What do you mean, this time?" Julia''s voice trembled, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and pain as she stared into Walter''s seething gaze. A sharp pang shot through her chest, but her attention snapped to the secret door that had imprisoned Evangeline. Something was terribly wrong.


    Julia had been bound and blind to the secrets around her, but as she saw the hidden door swung wide open-and not by Walter''s hand-she could not help but burst into raucousughter. "Fate''s got a wicked sense of humor, Walter!" she cackled.

 Chapter 588

    "I nearly lost my life saving you back then, and this is how you treat me in return. You repay kindness with betrayal. Even the stars areughing at you, Walter!"


    As tears of mirth welled in her eyes, anyst hope that Walter truly loved her vanished. When he had pinned her hands and tossed her onto the bed with such coldness, the truth hit her hard. She was nothing to him. Why keep dreaming?


    Walter''s eyes were red with fury, and Julia''s illusions shatteredpletely. She knew then that she had never been the one he wanted. His heart belonged to Evangeline, that snake.


    However, Julia would not stand for it. She would not let Evangeline win, and she certainly would not let Walter have his way.


    Unbeknownst to her, Walter''s patience had snapped. He lifted her with a fierce grip and mmed her back onto the bed, his voice like ice.


    "I''m done with the past, Julia. All I care about now is where you''ve hidden Evangeline."


    Walter was convinced Julia knew Evangeline''s whereabouts, and he would not waste another breath on her otherwise. In a swift motion, he ripped his shirt cuff and rolled up his sleeves, revealing his toned arms, ready for whatever came next. "You know what I''m capable of. I have no clue how you got out of that ce, but I bet you''d never want to go back for a second round!"


    Tears spilled from Julia''s eyes in an instant.


    Indeed, Northern Montavia was a real-life horror show, a ce that chewed her up and spit her out.


    One time there was more than enough-who in their right mind would volunteer for a second?


    It was Walter who had sent her there in the first ce.


    Memories flooded her mind.


    Julia, with her striking looks and the cultured vibe she got from ying the violin, had caught the attention of the big shot there.


    She was toyed with by five guys in one night not allowed to say she was tired, not allowed to say no. To avoid starving, to keep breathing, she had to suck up to those monsters.


    After all herpliance, they still nned to sell her off when they got bored...


    No, she could not let her mind go there! She did not even know how she had made it through, or... was it all just some nightmare?


    A flicker of confusion passed


    through Julia''s eyes, quickly


    overtaken by a wave of rage. "Walter,


    is your big n to ship me back


    Northern Montavia? Go ahead, try it! However, if you do, you can kiss any chance of finding Evangeline goodbye!


    "Why would I let you star in some hero-saves-the-day fantasy? Me, the viin, just to give you and Evangeline a happily ever after? Am I, Julia, really that generous?


    "I''ll give it to you straight-I never nned for Evangeline to make it out of here alive. I want her gone, and that little mistake growing inside her too!"


    Julia screamed with every ounce of strength she had, pouring out all the bitterness of the world''s unfairness and Walter''s betrayal.


    If she could, she would wish death upon everyone right then.


    Her parents were gone, so why did those other people get to live? Why were that witch Evangeline and Walter still kicking, especially when Evangeline had be Walter''s darling?


    "You want to know where Evangeline


    is? Ha! Let me spill the beans. Before


    you even stepped foot in here, I gave the order. The moment you and I hit the bridal suite, my crew would whisk Evangeline away to a nice, quiet spot to bid her farewell to this world. So really, don''t bother hunting her down. If you do find her, you''ll just be staring at a lifeless body. Where''s the fun in that?" N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.

 Chapter 589

    Julia was the one tied up with a necktie, but Walter was the one who felt like he was in knots.


    "You''re lying! She can''t be dead!"


    Walter''s eyes were fiery with rage, itching to rip apart the vile woman before him, but he held back, knowing she had the information on Evangeline''s whereabouts. "Spill it! Where is Evangeline?"


    Evangeline could not be dead, nor could their child. They had not even started their happy life together. How could Evangeline be gone?


    If he could just get Julia to talk, there would still be time to save them!


    "Where is that witch? How should I know? I just sent her off to meet her maker..."


    Julia''s words were casual, but inside, she was already filled with remorse.


    She was so caught up in having a perfect night with Walter that she did not make sure Evangeline was dealt with for good.


    If Walter had found Evangeline and the kid gone for good, it would have haunted him forever. Her, the one behind it all, she would have been a ghost in his memory, always there.


    A weird way to be remembered, but it was still being remembered, was it not?


    However, as quick as it took to say those words, Walter had ditched any hope of getting the truth out of Julia.


    "Julia, my guys have this ce locked down. If you won''t talk, trust me, someone else will."


    Like Julia''s own crew, her big-shot supporters, or the goons he had waiting just outside...


    Arguing with that crazydy was getting him nowhere. Better to have his people hunt down Evangeline.


    That old warehouse was way out in the sticks, so he would need wheels to get out. So, Walter bolted, leaving Julia in the dust.


    His bodyguard, who had been


    freaking out since he lost touch with Walter, was stuck waiting on orders at the door. Seeing Walter finally storm out, he charged up to him.


    en N?velDrama.Org exclusive content.


    "Any carse by here just now?"


    The bodyguard paused, a lightbulb going off. "Yeah! A motorcycle zipped by, that''s it. No other cars."


    A motorcycle? Walter scrunched his brow. Evangeline was far along in her pregnancy. Would Julia really whisk her away on a bike? Mulling over the odds, Walter blurted, "No way you guys must''ve missed something else!"


    Walter''smand cut through the air, icy and lethal. "The person inside is under my control. Get in there, round everyone up, and grill them until we find out where Mrs. Gordon is!"


    en


    He cleared out a car, slid into the driver''s seat, and sped away from the scene...


    Where would Julia hide Evangeline?


    Walter could not believe that Julia, with her deep-seated hatred for Evangeline, would be careless about the ce of her demise.


    Refusing to let Evangeline die in some forsaken warehouse, Julia must have chosen a ce with meaning for her final act. Maybe... Amberstream Riverbank. That was where Julia had had a brush with death but managed to survive.


    It was also where their twisted fate began...


    With that thought, Walter turned the key, the engine roared, and the car bolted forward like an arrow.


    ''Evangeline, just hold on... wait for me!''

 Chapter 590

    Motorcycles-the ultimate icons of speed and passion.


    Evangeline clung to the biker''s waist, the wind howling in her ears, her head resting against his back without a second thought.


    Under normal circumstances, she would be the one embracing the rush, arms outstretched, savoring the thrill. However, not this time. This was different. She had a new life growing inside her. After she became a mother, Evangeline was not the fearless Foster family princess anymore. She was just a mother who wanted nothing more than to see her child grow up safe and sound. Out of nowhere, the howling wind around her ears came to a halt, and the motorcycle stopped in front of a sleek white BMW.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Then came a teasing voice.


    "Time to hop off, my Cuddly Cutie."


    That nickname!


    Evangeline''s eyes widened in shock. "You are..."


    The man nced back at her with a yful spark in his eyes. He put a finger to his lips, signaling her to be quiet, and then suggested, "Maybe we should get off first?"


    Evangeline took in their awkward position. He was still poised as if he were riding the bike, while she was halfway off, with just one leg still not quite free.


    It was a bit unseemly, especially since she was visibly pregnant.


    With a blush, Evangeline pulled her leg back in, watching him casually toss the bike aside and stride over to the BMW. He opened the passenger door with a smooth, easy motion. "Come on, get in. Where do you want to go? I''ll take you."


    His movements had the effortless grace of a charming rogue.


    She was suddenly reminded of her long-lost Uncle Aemon.


    That good friend who had been keeping in touch from the shadows... Snow Wolf.


    With that special nickname and his unmistakable personality, there was no doubt in her mind that this man was Snow Wolf.


    Faced with that lone man who had pulled her out of Julia''s dangerousir, Evangeline chose to trust without a second thought. Once Evangeline was in the car, he shut the door behind her and took his ce behind the wheel.


    As he buckled up, Evangeline''s curiosity got the better of her. "Are you... Snow Wolf?"


    Evangeline''s gaze could not help but drift across the man''s face, a slight frown creasing her brow. There was something oddly familiar about him. Had they met before? However, no memories came to mind.


    The man met her gaze with an aloof indifference. "Has anyone else ever called you Cuddly Cutie?"


    "Uh, no."


    Outside, Evangeline was the cherished princess of the Foster family. At home, she was Ms. Evangeline. Nicknames were off-limits.


    "But why does it feel like... we''ve seen each other before?"


    He gave her a quick look and turned the key in the ignition.


    "We have met before."


    The car''s engine roared to life, his voice crystal clear over the hum, and Evangeline heard every word.


    "Sorry, I just can''t seem to remember."


    Her memories of Snow Wolf were


    fuzzy, stopping at the point where he had helped her search for Lydia and then suggested they meet up, which she had turned down.


    He let out a deep sigh, feigning resignation.


    "If you can''t remember, then don''t worry about it. It wasn''t exactly a happy memory."


    The car pulled away, yet they had not decided where they were headed.


    "Got any ce in mind? I''ll drive you there."


    Where to...


    She nearly told him she wanted to go home, but she choked them back at thest second. The image of


    Walter and Julia, wrapped up in each


    other, haunted her thoughts.

 Chapter 591

    Evangeline overheard Julia and Walter''s phone call, every word sharp and clear.


    However, she knew Walter too well.


    Would he reallye to that forsaken warehouse for her? If he did, it was probably just for the baby she carried, to clear the air with Trey. The warmth between him and Julia, though, was real.


    Tears caught her off guard, blurring her vision until the world was a watery haze.


    One tear hung in her sight, and suddenly, she was back in that autumn she loved, by the water''s edge.


    The golden glow of the harvest season wrapped around everything, painting the water with a picture of plenty.


    She never noticed the solitude of autumn or its decline, believing it was beautiful to freeze in her prime if fading was inevitable.


    "Take me to Amberstream Riverbank."


    The name was as lovely as a masterpiece. The first time Evangeline heard it, she was captivated. She promised herself she would visit.


    So one day, she slipped away from her grandfather and uncles, dodged the watchful eyes of her bodyguards, and took a cab to that magical ce. That was where her story with Walter really started.


    The driver was silent then, just driving.


    In the passenger seat, Evangeline''s surroundings grew more and more familiar, and the memories from back then sharpened.


    ...


    She remembered sitting by the river with her teddy bear backpack, sshing her feet in the water, when she spotted a skinny figure iling in the river. It was obvious he could not swim.


    She, with only three days of swimming lessons under her belt, could only manage to stay afloat.


    In that split second, Evangeline did not have time to think. She just instinctively dove into the water. She could guess what happened next.


    She was smaller and not as strong


    as the b


    and her swimming was


    not exactly Olympic level. Plus, the boy was already unconscious...


    In her rush to save him, Evangeline identally swallowed a gulp of water.


    Dizziness hit her, but she ignored the feeling of her lungs screaming for air and fought to drag him to the shore, even though she was nearly out of breath.


    She clung to consciousness, taking a moment to look at the boy she had rescued.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    He was skinny, sure, but there was something undeniably handsome about him. One look and he was etched in her heart.


    Would it not be amazing if she could marry him? Had she just saved her future husband?


    A smile flickered across her face, even as her energy slipped away.


    As she passed out, her fingers were wrapped tightly around a little bear keychain on the boy''s clothes.


    She thought that if she was going to die, at least they would be together...


    When she came to, she was on the princess bed in the old Foster family mansion, with her grandfather watching over her worriedly.


    "Evie, you can''t ever run off like that again, you hear me? I was so worried," he said.


    Little Evangeline looked down, feeling guilty, but she could not help the smile that secretly formed.


    If she had not run off, she would not have saved that little boy-who was her future husband, no less!


    ...


    Snow Wolf pulled up to Amberstream Riverbank in no time, thoughtfully opening the car door for Evangeline.


    With her pregnant belly, Evangeline


    made her way to the river''s edge


    and, just like when she was little, let


    her feet dangle into the water, swinging them back and forth...


    Snow Wolf watched her intently, then moved closer and, trying to keep things light, cracked a joke. "Cuddly Cutie, you''re not having second thoughts, are you? That would mean I saved you for nothing..."

 Chapter 592

    "Don''t worry, I''m not."


    Evangeline caressed her belly, her eyes sparkling as she nced at herpanion.


    "I''ve gotpany now, and Grandpa is waiting for me back at the family house. Why would I have any doubts?" She was just trying to relive a moment from her past. Perhaps this could be said as... a goodbye ritual.


    A final wave to the girl who once rescued Walter and lost her heart to him in an instant.


    "Good to know." Snow Wolf''s grin widened as he breathed a sigh of relief.


    He sure did not want to lose her just when they had met.


    "Feeling hungry? Want me to grab you a bite?"


    Snow Wolf had not expected that she would be expecting a little one, so he had not thought to bring any snacks. He was pretty thoughtful. As soon as he brought it up, Evangeline''s stomach let out a loud rumble.


    Sheughed off the embarrassment and gestured to Snow Wolf. "Hold on, I''ve got a bit more to do here. We can head out together in a bit." With that, Evangeline got to her feet.


    She was standing at the gateway to Amberstream Riverbank, nked by two towering square columns, each crowned with a tiny white lion. Evangeline made her way toward the lion on the right.


    Snow Wolf, curious about her actions, followed close behind, only to see her reaching out her hand.


    "Do you have anything like a tiny stick?"


    Snow Wolf eyed the key in his house, shaped just like a little stick, and without a second thought, he passed it over.


    "Will this do the trick?"


    Evangeline looked it over and quickly gave a nod.


    She grabbed the key and pushed the rounded end into a tiny hole she had spotted before.


    In no time, she had the metal te off the back of the miniature lion, unveiling the cramped space hidden behind it.


    A keychain, carved into the shape of a brown bear, was nestled quietly inside.


    Evangeline reached in, retrieved the keychain, and nonchntly snapped the metal te back onto the lion.


    The keychain''s craftsmanship was exquisite despite being just a simple brown bear. It had not faded a bit after years inside the lion''s belly, looking just as it did when she first ced it there.  en


    Evangeline held it close to her heart, as if she was embracing Walter with all her might. That was the very thing she had gripped tightly while unconscious.


    When she came into the Foster family''s care, she realized the


    keychain had followed her back


    the keychain''s true owner had vanished forever.


    With a heavy heart, Evangeline buried the little bear at their special meeting spot and never returned to Amberstream Riverbank.


    Yearster, at a grand party, she spotted Walter, dapper in a suit, every inch the prince.


    Even though he had an older brother named Alex who looked just like him, she just knew that the person she rescued from the water was Walter.


    Throwing caution and traditional shyness to the wind, she persuaded her grandfather and uncles that she was destined to marry Walter.


    The ending was no surprise. Evangeline had gambled her whole life''s happiness on Walter, only to be left with nothing.


    Of course, not quite nothing. She still had her precious treasure, did she not?Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    With that thought, she felt a wave offort wash over her.


    That time, she did not sit down. Clutching the keychain, she stretched out her hands over the waters of Amberstream Riverbank. With her palms facing down she opened her fingers.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 593

    The keychain dropped into the river.


    The water was crystal clear, dotted with chunks of ice since winter was just ending. Through the cold, she could make out the little brown bear on the keychain. "Goodbye, Walter," she whispered to herself, knowing those words were meant more for her than for him.


    From that day forward, Walter would be a chapter closed in the book of Evangeline''s life.


    With that, it was just her, the child growing inside her, the Foster family, and her own strength.


    "Snow Wolf, let''s hit the road."


    With that, Evangeline did not look back. She hopped into Snow Wolf''s car, and they sped off to find somefort food.


    Little did they know, within minutes of their departure, a sleek ck sedan raced past, pulling up at the very spot they had just left.


    Walter stood there, lost in memories of the girl he once knew, herughter echoing in his mind.


    "Evangeline! Where are you?" he called out into the void.


    Walter''s hands formed a makeshift megaphone as he yelled across the empty river. Out of nowhere, a glint of gold caught his eye.


    It was a beam of sunlight bouncing off the water, leading him to a surprising find a brown teddy bear keychain right there in his line of sight.


    He knew that keychain all too well.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It was a Disney collector''s item, the only thing his father left him, a token of his father''s love.


    He had kept it with him always, until that fateful day he tumbled into the river. After searching every inch of Amberstream Riverbank, the keychain had vanished without a trace.


    He remembered a girl, the one who


    had saved him, holding it tightly. He had always assumed it was Julia


    who had it, asking her for it time and again, only to be met with excuses.


    en


    There it was, mysteriously back at Amberstream Riverbank.


    In the chilly tail end of winter, Walter did not think twice before diving into the icy water to rescue the keychain. Climbing out, soaked to the bone and shivering in the biting wind, he could not take his eyes off the keychain. Walter closed his eyes slowly as a reluctant realization dawned on him.


    The keychain had not been in the water long-there was not a speck of rust Julia could not have been the one to drop it, which meant she


    was not his savior after ent


    Walter, the big fool, had been thanking the wrong person all that time!


    Walter had been so sure that Julia was his savior, but he was dead wrong. That mistake had cost- Evangeline dearly, and then their rtionship was in shambles.


    ''Julia, you''re going to pay with your life!''


    With his hands balled into fists, Walter whipped out his phone and called his bodyguard, only to be met with a frantic voice on the other end.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, we''ve got everyone under control, but one person... she''s slipped through our fingers!"


    "Who''s gone?"


    "Ms. Rearden..."


    In that warehouse, Julia was the only Ms. Rearden.


    "Useless, all of them!"


    He had tied Julia up so well, and yet those fools could not keep watch over her!

 Chapter 594

    After the car crash scare, Evangeline was not taking any chances. She and Snow Wolf hit up a diner, and she borrowed his phone to check in with Yale. Yale''s voice was rough, tinged with a thrill he could not quite mask.


    "Evie, thank goodness you''re safe."


    Evangeline figured he was just worried about her, not reading into it too much.


    However, a beatter...


    "Don''t bother with the old house; head straight to the hospital. It''s your grandfather. He..."


    Yale sounded utterly spent.


    He had no idea that Evangeline had only been safe and sound for less than eight hours since her disappearance.


    The Fosters could not keep a lid on it for even that short a time.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Outside the operating room, the red light flicked on, and Yale''s heart sank.


    Holden was a statue, his fists clenched, eyes glued to the operating room doors, not looking away for even a split second.


    Yale could not hold back his emotions any longer when he saw Holden''s state. His eyes welled up as he quickly moved closer and gave Holden''s shoulder a reassuring pat. Holden clung to Yale''s hand like it was his only hope. "Yale, Dad is going to be okay this time, right? And Evie too, all of us Fosters are going to be just fine..."


    "I was about to tell you," Yale cut in, "that Evie is safe. She''s with her friends, so no worries there. She''ll probably be here any minute."


    "For real?" Holden, hardly daring to believe, wiped his eyes, only to hear an even more excited voice.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, Mr. Holden Foster, is Ms. Evangeline really okay?" @ Celina, overwhelmed with emotion, started crying right then and there. Seeing their firm nod, her tears


    flowed even harder.


    "Oh, thank goodness! It''s all my fault, I didn''t realize Mr. Foster was listening when David called me. Otherwise, it wouldn''t have gotten to this point..." Her eyes, red as a rabbit''s, were fixed on the operating room door.


    Holden quickly tried tofort her, "Ms. Morris, don''t be too hard on yourself. We know our father better than anyone. He might seem a little out of the loop sometimes, but he''s actually got it all figured out. He can''t be fooled if there''s even the tiniest clue."


    Cole was just like that, his health failing but his mind sharp as ever, always able to piece things together from the smallest details.


    Celina really did not need to feel so guilty.


    Evangeline raced to the hospital with her heart pounding, and found three people huddled at the entrance.


    The tension was palpable as the red light above the operating room door finally clicked off. Conrad emerged in his scrubs, his mask pulled down to reveal a face full of regret. "Cole''s in a bad way," he said, his voice heavy. "He''s weak, and his will to live... it''s not strong. We''ve pulled him back this time, but I can''t promise anything more."


    Hope plummeted like a stone in everyone''s chest, mirroring the despair in Conrad''s eyes. Evangeline''s throat tightened, tears streaming down her face. This was all her fault!


    If she had not insisted on taking David to the hospital herself, Julia would not have had her chance. If only she had stayed by her grandfather''s side, his condition would not have worsened. She had let him down.


    Because of her, Cole was in the ICU.


    Yale stood outside the ss, watching over him, and quietly said to Holden, "Call Jack and the rest."


    Evangeline caught every word, her heart sinking further. "Uncle Yale, you mean..."


    It was clear. They were calling the family in for what might be goodbye.

 Chapter 595

    Evangeline''s eyes were red-rimmed as she shook her head fiercely, refusing to ept it. "Grandpa is going to pull through. Dr. George said we have to believe," she pleaded, her voice breaking. She was holding onto Yale''s hand as if her grip alone could keep her grandfather alive.


    She knew how serious it was, that he might not make it through the night. However, she could not bear the thought of her uncles returning, as if their arrival would seal her grandfather''s fate. Yale understood her all too well, his own heart aching with the same fear. His hand gently touched her forehead, stroking it softly. "What''s on your mind? Your grandpa is really sick, and your uncle Holden and I are swamped. We thought it''d be best to call your other uncles to pitch in."


    Evangeline knew it was a kind lie, but she could not bring herself to call it out.


    The day the Foster brothers all came together was the same day Cole got moved out of the ICU to a regr room.


    Evangeline was so happy that she could barely contain herself, dancing around with glee. If she had not been pregnant, she might have leaped with joy.


    Coley on the blue hospital bed, looking frail and pale with a respirator in his nose, the gentle rise and fall of his chest the only sign he was still fighting.


    When he saw everyone around him, his eyes moved from one Foster brother to the next, lighting up with a flush of excitement when theynded on Evangeline. She rushed to his side, careful not to hurt him, and gently touched his hand.


    "Grandpa, I did get kidnapped, but I''m lucky, you know? I ran into an old friend who brought me back!"


    Evangeline clung to a thread of hope. Maybe seeing her safe would strengthen her grandpa''s will to live. Could getting Conrad back there make a difference? Cole''s eyes dropped, and he gave a weak nod.


    He barely had the strength to move his hand, but he tried to pull at his oxygen mask.


    Evangeline understood and carefully helped him take it off.


    "Evie..." His voice was raspy as if it had been scraped raw by the coarsest grit of sandpaper. "I''m on my way out."


    He smiled a radiant glow of contentment on his face. "I just saw your grandmother. She gave me an earful for making her wait so long withouting to see her. It''s time for us to be together again


    Cole lifted his hand, and Evangeline sped it within hers.


    "Evie, your five uncles might still be bachelors, but they''re men with their own talents, and that''s why I''m not worried about them. What I can''t stop worrying about... is you  en


    "You''ve had it tough, kiddo. Losing your mom so young, and just when you finally got to be with me, I still can''t make up for the absence of your real parents.


    "So, before I go, I need you to promise me one thing."


    Evangeline nodded through her tears, her cheeks glistening. "Grandpa, just tell me. It doesn''t matter if it''s one thing or a hundred, I''ll agree!"


    Cole''s hand wavered, and he weakly pointed a single finger.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    "It''s just one thing.


    "I want you to be happy. It doesn''t matter if it''s with Walter or what you decide about the baby. As long as you''re happy, I''ll be smiling down from heaven."

 Chapter 596

    Evangeline''s eyes were wide with disbelief.


    Cole could not just randomly bring up happiness and Walter without a reason.


    "Grandpa, let''s not talk about this, okay? Dr. George said your surgery went really well, and you''re not going anywhere!"


    The fear of losing her grandfather wrapped around her, and she could not bear to hear any more of that from him.


    Cole offered a weak smile. "Evie, everyone''s got to face the big four: being born, getting old, getting sick, and dying. Even if I pull through this time, I can''t dodge the final curtain. "Don''t be scared, okay?"


    Cole''s smile was as warm and gentle as ever, his frail, aged hand reaching out to stroke Evangeline''s hair, just like he did when she was a little girl.


    "I won''t!" Evangeline''s tears had broken free, spilling onto the nket thaty over Cole. "I want Grandpa to stay with me forever. I can''t stand the thought of being apart from you!"


    Cole could not help but smile, "Oh, my silly Evie, you''re still so young. If I stayed with you forever, wouldn''t I be some kind of immortal goblin?"


    He spoke slowly, but for him, it was as quick as he could manage.


    A coughing fit seized him as he struggled to clear his throat.


    Evangeline quickly moved to soothe her grandfather, while the Foster family''s five brothers rushed to his side, all calling out together, "Dad!"


    The Foster brothers were always the talk of the town, but at that moment, their eyes were bloodshot with grief as they looked at the old man in the bed.


    Cole gestured to them. "You''re all smart, you know how life goes. Birth, aging, sickness, death-it''s all part of the deal."


    He caught his breath and sighed, trying tofort them, then looked straight at Evangeline. "Evie, all I want is for you to be happy, you get that? If this baby isn''t going to make you happy, then I hope you''ll make the right choice." He gripped Evangeline''s hand with all the strength he had left.


    Evangeline felt no physical pain, but the weight of his grip was like a ton.


    "Grandpa, you''ve known all along, haven''t you?"ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Cole remained silent, his eyes cast downward.


    Evangeline could scarcely believe such a response.


    She had convinced herself that her grandfather, with his advancing years, had lost the sharpness of his younger days. She and Walter had put on what they thought was a wless performance in front of him. How could he have possibly seen through it?


    Still, he had made a point to mention his great-grandson and


    ned the topic of stel


    or leaving.


    The truth was starkly apparent. Their little schemes had stood no chance against her grandfather''s insight.


    Cole''s voice, frail and fading, continued. "Evie, will you promise me?" he whispered.


    Evangeline did not hesitate, her head bobbing in a rapid nod. "I promise, 1 promise, Grandpa. Whatever you want, as long as you get better, I''ll promise you anything!"


    "That''s good... Now I can... rest... easy..."


    The heart monitor let out a deafening beep, its once erratic line then a hauntingly still horizon.


    Just like that, the life of the once mighty Cole was extinguished from the world...


    The Foster brothers stood united by the bedside.


    Evangeline copsed onto Cole''s icy form, her sobs tearing through the silence.


    "Grandpa! Grandpa, please wake up..."


    Cole was gone. The man who had been at times stern, at times gentle, had left that world for good.


    It was her fault, all her fault.

 Chapter 597

    She had caused her grandfather''s death!


    Tears slid down silently, leaving trails on Evangeline''s face, her sobs then just a whisper.


    At that very moment, the hospital room door swung open. Walter, his face ashen, appeared at the threshold. Feeling the weight of everyone''s stares, he fidgeted ufortably, his hand brushing the back of his neck.


    "I heard Mr. Foster was ill, so I... I just came..."


    "What are you even doing here?" Evangeline shot up from her seat and marched straight toward Walter. "Walter, did you have something to do with my grandpa getting sick? Did you really have toe here and y the concerned visitor?"


    If Walter had not been so hung up on Julia, if she was not worried about how heartbroken Cole would be to see Walter being mean to her, why would she have ever spent so much time away from Cole''s side?


    "Evangeline, what are you doing here?"


    Walter was in total disbelief.


    Had not Julia taken Evangeline away? He had scoured every corner of Avalon City and had not caught even a glimpse of her, yet there she was? Evangelineughed, but it sounded hollow.


    "If I''m not here, where would I be? Hiding in some abandoned warehouse, waiting to catch you and Julia''s private show?"


    She could not even muster the courage to think back on the scene she had stumbled upon.


    ''Walter, how could you be so heartless?'' she wondered.


    All the hurt she had been holding back ignited in a fiery outburst.


    "I don''t care why you''re at the hospital, but my grandfather is gone now, and he wouldn''t want you here, so just leave."


    "How can I leave? I''m Mr. Foster''s grandson-inw, after all," said Walter, refusing to leave.


    He looked up and locked eyes with Evangeline, hers zing with loathing.


    They faced off in silence.


    The room, already somber from Cole''s death, was suffocating under a tense silence.


    Holden quickly stepped in, pulling Evangeline to his side, and squared off with Walter, saying, "Walter, we get it, you''re trying to be nice. But let''s face it, you just don''t belong here with the way things are now. Time to head out, okay?"


    If Cole had been okay with Walter, he would not have been all ''think about your happiness first'' to Evangeline when he was on his way out. He definitely would not have made a point of bringing up her unborn child.


    Yeah, Cole had totally seen through the whole Walter-and-Evangeline show.


    Walter''s mouth worked like he was trying to say something, but it took a second before he could actually make any sound. "Uncle..."


    Holden cut him off with a ''stop right there'' kind of wave. "Don''t call me that, Mr. Walter Gordon. That''s a no-go for me." Holden backed up a bit and signaled to the door guys.


    "Time to show our guest the door!"


    Tough-looking dudes closed in, giving


    Dond alter that apologetic I t make this hard on ut


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, you ha


    go.


    Walter was a big deal in Avalon City, and even with the boss''s orders, those guys had their rep to think about.


    Walter shot Evangeline onest look, then spun on his heel and split from the hospital.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As he turned, his eyes went blood-red, and tears just started spilling out.


    Guys were not supposed to cry, right? Except when it really, really hurt.


    He only faked his flirtation with Julia, but Evangeline had busted them big time.


    All he wanted then was to dash back and clear the air with Evangeline, but the question was... would she even buy his story?


    Then, all of a sudden, he balled up his fists, lips going tight.


    Julia. She was the start of all that mess!

 Chapter 598

    Walter''s phone buzzed to life out of the blue.


    "Sir, I''m feeling a lot better now, ready to get back to the mission in Southern Crownds."


    David''s voice was stuffy and sounded like he was on the tail end of a cold.


    He already knew the whole drama about Evangeline getting nabbed by Julia while trying to rush him to the hospital.


    Taking a beat, he cautiously broached the subject, "How''s Mrs. Gordon holding up?"


    It was not that he doubted Walter''s expertise, but Evangeline''s trouble was tied to him, and he could not shake off the guilt without checking in.


    "She''s fine now." Walter kept his voice even, masking whatever he was feeling.


    "She''s fine?" David echoed, relief flooding his words. "That''s a relief, a huge relief."


    Knowing Evangeline was out of hot water made his own heart lighter.


    "I''ll head out tonight, catch a flight to Southern Crownds."


    He mulled it over briefly before filling Walter in.


    "Sure about that?" Walter was the one caught off guard then. "Weren''t you and Celina in a spat? You don''t have to go..."


    He saw David as a brother and took his brother''s big life moments to heart. However, before he could get all the words out, David cut him off.


    "No need, Mr. Walter Gordon. I appreciate the thought." David inhaled sharply on the other end, "Stepping away is the best thing for her right now." His fever had broken, and though his head was still foggy, his heart had found some peace.


    Celina''s words kept reying in his mind, haunting him with every echo.


    ve


    He was not there when Celina''s life hung by a thread. He was not there when she cried out for help. It was like he was perpetually missing from her life''s critical moments.


    Whether he was powerless to change that or not, he was not by her side, and that was the harsh truth. Why keep obsessing over it?


    She was right about one thing: they were from different worlds. Dreaming of being together was nothing but a fantasy.


    A sharp pain clenched his chest as


    her


    he thought of her. Celina''s sweet face shed before his eyes, but her determined look cut through him like a de.


    His life was bound to Walter''s path. How much time could he really give her?


    If he could not make her happy, it was time to... let go.


    "I''ve settled things with Celina. It''s over. Now, I just want to throw myself into my work."


    Diving into his job was the only way to drown out the butterflies and bring back the old, steady David, the one who could focus on the mission Walter had given him...


    "Okay then." Walter exhaled, a mix of relief and regret in his breath. The choice was made, and all he could do was stand by it.


    "If you ever change your mind, you know how to reach me."


    He got where David wasing from. He had been there, using work as a balm for the pain. However, that trick did not work for him anymore.


    He just hoped... it would do the trick for David.


    With that thought, Walter ended the call and dialed another number.


    "Have you found Julia?"


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, we still haven''t found her," came the hesitant voice on the other end of the line, sparking Walter''s fury.


    "What are you even doing? How can you not find one woman after all this time?"This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 599

    Walter was shocked to discover just how ipetent his team was.


    "Sorry, Mr. Walter Gordon. We''ve done everything we could, but they''re too slick. They fed us fake leads, and we bit hard. By the time we figured it out and doubled back, they were gone-like they''d vanished into thin air..."


    ...


    Elsewhere, Julia lounged in a swanky vi, sweet-talking someone on a video call.


    "Honey, don''t be mad, okay? I know you''re just worried about me. But look, I''m totally fine. Plus, I''ll be home before you know it."ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Her voice was dripping with sweetness, like she was talking through a mouthful of honey.


    The bodyguard who had just walked in caught a bit of her sugary tone and quickly looked down, giving her a respectful nod as he updated her, "Ms. Rearden, we''ve lost the tail."


    Julia''s face, which had been all smiles, turned to ice. "Good job. You can go now."


    With a dismissive wave, she sent the bodyguard scurrying out. As soon as he was gone, her sweet smile returned.


    On the screen, the man finally spoke up, his voice emotionless. "When are youing back?"


    "In a month," said Julia after a pause. However, seeing his expression darken, she quickly added, "No way, I can only give you two weeks max! I''ll zip right back to you in half a month, deal?" Julia''s voice was all sugar and spice, and she batted her eyshes for good measure. Even the toughest cookie would crumble a bit at that act.


    The guy on the other end of the video call seemed to thaw a little, but his words were set in stone. "One week."


    "One week? That''s way too quick!" Julia gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, though her surprise squeaked out anyway.


    "Can''t we talk this over? I''ve still got a ton of stuff to wrap up here. That means the girl hasn''t gotten hereuppance... and I haven''t even finished the job you gave me for


    when I get back."


    en


    She was scrambling for reasons to stay put, but he was not having any of it. "Someone else will handle your job."


    Julia opened her mouth to argue, but his voice came through, crisp and sharp as ice, "Julia, don''t push my buttons."


    She knew all too well the price of ticking him off. She instinctively ducked her head. "Alright, alright, I''ll sort everything out this week and then I''m all yours."


    Her smile was a blooming rose, and


    she leaned into the camera, her voice a soft caress as she said, "You know, I''ve really missed you. It''s been ages. Did you miss me at all?"


    Sweet whispers were her secret weapon. Julia had snagged his attention with her looks, but it was her charm that kept her by his side. Seeing his expression warm up, Julia hung up, a weight lifted off her shoulders. She had bought herself some time, at least for a while.


    Julia could not figure it out. Flirting


    came so naturally to her with everyone else, but around Walter, all her clever tricks just vanished. She


    was left to navigate by pure instinct.


    en


    However, that did not matter anymore.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 600

    The second Walter tied Julia to the bed, everything clicked for her.


    She never had a ce in his heart. His kindness was just payback for the time she saved his life.


    She had fooled herself into thinking it was more, that his gratitude was affection. She had been lying to herself for years.


    It was time to snap out of it.Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Julia hid her face in her hands, fighting back tears, but when she looked up, she caught sight of the bodyguard who had not left. He was a constant annoyance.


    Her team was disciplined, and they knew better than to interrupt when the boss was on the line. However, that guy? He broke all the rules, brazenly reporting to the boss about Walter, right in front of him! She motioned to him with a flick of her finger.


    The bodyguard came over, bowing so low he was practically staring at his shoes.


    From above him, Julia''s voice dropped t and emotionless. "You better have a darn good reason for cutting into my call with the leader."


    Her tone was distant as she casually lit up a fancy cigarette. She had always yed the part of the sweet, innocent girl around Walter, never touching cigarettes or booze. She never got the appeal of those vices.


    However, after everything that went down in Northern Montavia, Julia finally understood. Sometimes a shot of liquor or a drag of a cigarette could wash away all her problems...


    The bodyguard, with the Bennison family''s harsh punishments looming over his head, felt a wave of cold sweat wash over him. However, he had to tough it out and deliver the news. "Just got word from the hospital-Mr. Foster of the Fosters kicked the bucket. The Fosters are on high alert, and there''s not a peep about Evangeline. Can''t even buy a hint with cash."


    The info trail had dried up, and there was no way to pull off what Julia had asked for.


    However, in a crisis like that, the bodyguard had to report in.


    "He''s gone?" Julia could only meet with Cole because of her connection to Evangeline, and those meetings were few and far between. She remembered Cole as a formidable old man with strong ties to Trey from the Gordons.


    She was about to dismiss the news


    Vel


    as irrelevant to her when a spark of glee lit up her face. Cole''s death would crush that despicable Evangeline, especially since she was pregnant. Pregnant women take


    those things the hardest.


    If Evangeline lost the baby, nobody would suspect a thing, right?


    Julia was aware that after her botched kidnapping plot, the Fosters would be guarding Evangeline like Fort Knox, so getting rid of her directly was a long shot.


    However, if she could somehow


    make Evangeline lose the baby, that


    would be a fate worse than death, would it not? That was what she deserved for falling for Walter.


    "Good news, you''ve made up for your screw-ups. You''re dismissed."


    With that, Julia had to figure out a way to make Evangeline''s unwanted little guest vanish without a trace.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the vi at Emerald of the Hignds.


    Evangeline''s eyes fluttered open, and she was totally lost, not having a clue about what had gone down.


    Julieta''s eyes, full of worry, lit up


    with a spark of joy when she saw Evangelinee to. "Ms. Evangeline, you''re finally awake," said Julieta, sounding like she had just let go of a breath she had been hotding. "Need some water? Got some right here."


    Evangeline''s lips were parched, and she gave a faint nod.


    The warm water trickled down her throat, soothing it and giving her back a bit of her strength.


    "Mrs. Lewis, what''s happened to me? And Grandpa, he..."


    Evangeline could not even get the words out before her eyes welled up with tears.


    Julieta''s face fell, and she gently tried tofort her, her own heart heavy.

 Chapter 601

    Julieta''s face fell, and she spoke with gentle caution, "Ms. Evangeline, we can''t bring back those who''ve passed. Mr. Foster may be gone, but you''ve got the little one inside you to think about. You''ve got to stay strong for your baby." It hit Evangeline then, and she tenderly ced her hand on the swell of her belly. "I''ll be careful, I promise."


    Cole had made her promise to look after their child before he died, making her feel like it was all because of him. However, that child was also a part of Walter, a continuation of their family. How could she ever let go? "Mrs. Lewis, when will Grandpa''s funeral be?"


    When Evangeline asked her question, Julieta went pale as a ghost.


    "Ms. Evangeline, you''ve been out cold for two days and nights. You just woke up, so maybe let''s not worry about that right now..."


    Evangeline could tell Julieta was holding something back. "What are you getting at?"Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    Julieta realized she could not hide it any longer and confessed, "Mr. Foster''s funeral is today, over at the old house. You really shouldn''t push yourself, you''ve only juste around."


    However, Evangeline did not let her finish. She flung back the covers. "Enough, just get my stuff ready. I''m heading out now."


    Evangeline was quick to act, but getting up so fast made the room spin, she was still weak. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.


    She had to be there for her grandpa''s final farewell, no matter what.


    Julieta rushed to Evangeline''s side. "Ms. Evangeline, take it easy. The funeral isn''t until ten, we''ve got time. I''ll get your things, but you''ve been out for two days. You need your strength, so how about you eat this bowl of oatmeal first? Do it for the little one you''re carrying.


    Right on cue, she brought over a tray with a simple bowl of oatmeal on it.


    Evangeline, who had been too anxious to think about the funeral to feel hungry, suddenly caught the scent of the oatmeal. Her stomach started rumbling loudly.


    Still, she nced at the clock. It was 30 minutes before eight o''clock.


    It was only an hour''s drive to the Foster family''s sprawling estate. With the funeral set to start at 10, Evangeline had plenty of time.


    After finishing her bowl of in


    oatmeal, Evangeline noticed Julieta had packed everything. Along with her usual knick-knacks, Evangeline added the bouquet of daisies she had prepared earlier-a thoughtful gesture that warmed her heart.


    "Mrs. Lewis, there''s one more thing I need you to carry for me. It mighte in handy today..."


    The car zipped down the road, Evangeline in the backseat, her fingers wrapped tightly around a brown wooden box.


    Taking a deep breath, as if steeling


    herself, she opened the box to reveal


    a striking green bracelet. It was clearly a treasure, the cial Crown Jade bracelet-a symbol of her ce in the Gordon family, valued at over 10 million.  en .


    However, to Evangeline, the bracelet''s worth could notpare to what it represented.


    Once she realized her marriage to Walter was nothing more than a facade, she had wanted to give it back. However, with Cole alive, it was not easy to make her feelings clear to Trey. With Cole gone, it was time to end things with Walter once and for all.

 Chapter 602

    Cole had been a titan in Avalon City. Even his funeral was a testament to that, with a never-ending stream of mournersing to pay theirst respects.Text ? by N0ve/lDrama.Org.


    The crowd was united in their sorrow, and as Evangeline looked on, her eyes grew red with tears.


    At the entrance of the funeral home, Yale, the eldest son, stood solemnly before his father''s portrait. Evangeline''s uncles were scattered around, each lost in their own thoughts. Evangeline made her way to the front, gentlyying flowers on the casket.


    Yale''s gaze followed her every move, his eyes brimming with concern. "Evie, why are you here? You should be resting after just waking up..."


    "Uncle Yale." Evangeline''s voice trembled as she fought back tears. "How could I miss Grandpa''s final farewell?"


    She dabbed at her tear-streaked cheeks, inhaled deeply, and asked, "Is there anything I can do to help?" "You..." Yale started to speak, then paused, struggling with his words. Atst, he said, "Just stand behind me."


    Together, the niece and uncle stood, expressing their gratitude to the mourners who hade to say goodbye.


    Then, a sleek ck stretch Bentley rolled up, turning heads as it made its way to a stop at a distance. The car was an omen of prestige, and the crowd watched with curiosity.


    Bodyguards emerged, and as they opened the back door, an elderly man with snow-white hair, d in a traditional ck suit and leaning on a cane was assisted out. He


    approached with a shaky gait, tears streaming down his face as he


    stood before Cole''s portrait.


    "Oh, old friend, why did you have to go first?" he murmured.


    Evangeline recognized the neer as Trey. Yale noticed him too and quickly moved to intercept.


    "Mr. Gordon, we''re so grateful you coulde to say goodbye to my father. Please, don''t tire yourself out-have a seat."


    Trey''s grip on his cane was shaky,


    his frailty evident. However, he waved a hand, brushing away the tears that streaked his weathered face. "Your dad and I were buddies, boy. Now that he''s gone, the least I can do is be here to see him off."


    Trey''s eyes brimmed with remorse as he faced his old friend.


    Evangeline was the man''s only treasure, his granddaughter, and Trey''s own grandson had treated her so poorly. He felt terrible about it.


    In front of everyone, Trey bowed deeply, then wiped away more tears before walking away.


    Evangeline felt the wooden box in


    her pocket and hurried after him. "Mr. Gordon, wait up!" She caught up to him just as he paused, stepping in front of him. Without much ado, Evangeline opened the box inher hand and held it out to Trey.


    "Evie, what''s this about?" Trey''s face lost all color, a look of shock spreading across it. "Didn''t Walter tell you? This bracelet is from our Gordon family..."


    "I know." Evangeline cut him off, her lips parting in a nervous attempt to find her voice, finally breaking the silence.

 Chapter 603

    "Mr. Gordon, I know this gemstone bracelet was meant for your granddaughter-inw. But let''s face it: my marriage to Walter was a joke, and it would''ve ended ages ago if it weren''t for Grandpa Cole''s illness. Now that he''s gone, it doesn''t seem right for me to keep this beauty, does it?"


    Sheughed, trying to keep it light, and took Trey''s frail hand, pressing the wooden box with the bracelet into his palm. "Don''t worry, even if Walter and I weren''t meant to be, you''ll always be my grandpa."


    With that, Evangeline spun on her heel and walked away, not looking back.


    It was not that she was distant. It was just that she was afraid if she hesitated, Trey would see the tears she was fighting back.


    She had a tender heart.


    After all, how could she not feel a bond with Trey after all the time they had spent together?


    What Evangeline did not see was Trey, with the wooden box at hand, standing still with tears welling up in his old eyes. He watched her walk away.


    He knew that the granddaughter-inw he was so proud of was slipping away for good.


    "Evangeline, hold up."


    A familiar voice suddenly rang out.


    Her footsteps stuttered to a stop, and she fought back the tears threatening to spill. She had no time for weakness then.


    After all, the man who shared her grandfather by blood, if not by bond, had every right to be there. Trey had shown up, so why not him?


    Lost in thought, she barely noticed Walter closing the distance until he stood right before her.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon. What do you want?"


    She was convinced they had nothing left to say to each other.


    Her eyes, caught off-guard,nded on him. She could not help but notice how much he had changed. The days apart had stripped away his weight and left him looking worn.


    en


    "Yeah, are you... okay?" He blurted out the words as if afraid she would vanish if he did not speak fast enough.


    Only God knew how excited he wasN?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    to see Evangeline and the child standing safely in front of him. However, in the face of such calm eyes, no matter how many words he had, he could not bring himself to say a thing.


    "I''m fine, thanks for asking. Anything else?" asked Evangeline.


    His concern brushed off her like leaves in the wind, but she kept her tone polite.


    "If that''s all, I''m heading back. You should be able to see that Uncle Yale is quite busy, maybe I can lend a hand over there."


    She made to leave, but Walter was quick to block her path.


    "Just one more thing, about Julia-did the Foster family get her?"


    Since the day the Gordon family lost


    U


    track of Julia, he had not been able to find any trace of her. He had two theories about the situation: one was that the Bennison family had been hiding in the shadows, and the other was the Foster family.


    Little did he know that when Walter asked his question, Evangeline''s expression suddenly revealed that she understood.


    Ah, it all made sense.


    A radiant smile yed on Evangeline''s lips.


    Walter''s worry was nothing but small talk. His true agenda was always about Julia.


    Walter, the guy who had been off the radar for ages, probably would not have bothered showing up if he was not so desperate for the inside scoop on Julia. However...


    "Isn''t Julia with you? Why are youing to ask me now?"

 Chapter 604

    Evangeline''s heart twinged uncontrobly as she thought about the vivid, passionate scene between Walter and Julia.


    ''No! Get a grip, Evangeline! Haven''t you decided to move on? Why does it still hurt? You can''t let this get to you!'' Evangeline''s mind raced with the thought.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Then, out of nowhere, she smiled radiantly.


    "Maybe Julia just couldn''t handle your fiery touch and snuck off when you weren''t looking?"


    She could still recall how Walter had treated her, like she was nothing more than someone to use, pinned down in that car.


    As for Julia... Could Walter really let himself go that far with her? The thought alone was enough to stun her.


    However, Walter could not stand even the slightest hint of usation from Evangeline, his face darkening with anger.


    He did not realize that his reaction was all the confirmation Evangeline needed.


    So, Julia had really slipped away?


    "Let mey it out for you: Julia is with me now. Sure, I promised Andrew I wouldn''ty a finger on her, as long as she didn''t cross me. This time, she might not have hurt me, but she got Cole killed. And for that, she''s going to pay."


    A fierce glint shed in Evangeline''s eyes, and when she looked back at Walter, her gaze wasced with scorn. "Feeling sorry for Julia already? You''re a bit early to the party."


    Truth be told, since Evangeline hade back, everyone had been preupied with Cole''s funeral.


    Whether Yale had caught Julia or not, she did not know yet.


    Evangeline''s words were a test, a sharp prod to see how Walter would react if she threatened his darling.


    As expected, Walter''s face twisted with pain, and he stammered out a feeble excuse. "Evangeline, you''ve got it all wrong, I''m just worried about you being in danger..."


    Herughter cut through the air, mocking and sharp. "Worried about me? Please, don''t make meugh. You''re right, you are worried, but


    only because you''re using your


    ''concern'' to snoop on your


    A


    sweetheart. I''ve spilled the beans, now go and wait for whatever news you''re hoping for."


    She spun on her heel to leave, then paused. "Oh, and my grandfather is gone, dead and buried. The Gordon family heirloom? I''ve given it back to Mr. Trey Gordon. Our marriage is a sham, and I''m not about to wait through some mandatory


    no


    cooling-off period. Let''s just sue for divorce and be done with it."


    With those final words, Evangeline walked away, leaving Walter to stare after her, his hands reaching out for someone who was no longer there.


    Walter was torn. The news of Julia''s capture by the Fosters should have been a relief. She was a threat, after all. However, the Bennison family would not take that lying down. What if they came after Evangeline in revenge?


    "Evangeline, can I see Celina just once more?" he called out, his voice echoing in the empty space shed left behind.


    Celina, being a Bennison, naturally had her own set of remarkable talents. With her looking out for Evangeline, there was at least some assurance that Evangeline would be safe.


    On another note, David had taken it


    upon himself to head back to Southern Crownds to pick up the investigation he had left hanging He was still nowhere to be found


    around there. There was that nagging feeling that he owed it to Celina and David to lend a hand to their cause.


    Walter''s voice carried, and Evangeline was all ears.


    Despite the distance, she caught every word he said, crystal clear.

 Chapter 605

    Evangeline paused, cradling her growing belly, and slowly spun to take her phone out of her pocket. She dialed Walter''s number. As soon as the call connected...


    "I''m sorry, Mr. Walter Gordon, but Celina doesn''t want to see you."


    Beep, beep, beep!


    Evangeline ended the call, leaving Walter with nothing but the tone of a dead line.


    Back at the funeral home, Evangeline''s gazended on the ck and white photos again, and the tears started flowing anew.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Julieta was heartbroken to see her like that. With a gentle swipe of her hand, she dried the tears on Evangeline''s face and whispered, "Ms. Evangeline, don''t be heartbroken..." "Mrs. Lewis..."


    In moments like these, the tender words were like a spell, coaxing out all the grief Evangeline had bottled up inside. She copsed into Julieta''s embrace, crying her heart out.


    At that moment, Evangeline was not the cherished darling of the Foster family. She was just a girl who had lost her beloved grandfather.


    Julieta''s hand moved in soothing patterns across Evangeline''s back, trying to offerfort.


    She wanted to urge Evangeline not to cry like this, especially since she was expecting a child, and such deep sorrow could harm her health. However, she recalled Yale mentioning the strong bond between Cole and Evangeline as grandfather and granddaughter. The words offort were on the tip of her tongue, but Julieta swallowed them, thinking it might be better for Evangeline to let it all out.


    Evangeline''s tears paused as she realized they were surrounded by guests at Cole''s funeral. She felt a wave of embarrassment for her outburst.


    Huddled in Julieta''s arms, she asked with a muffled voice, "Mrs. Lewis, where''s Celina? Why isn''t she here?"


    Cole had always treated Celina as part of the family, and she should have been there for the funeral.


    Julieta felt a twinge of concern too. "I haven''t seen Ms. Morris. Maybe something held her up?"


    Evangeline was Cole''s actual granddaughter, which was why she had been in the funeral procession. They had arranged for a family driver to bring Celina.


    "But she shouldn''t be thiste," Evangeline murmured, a frown creasing her forehead. Considering Celina''s unique situation, it was possible thating to Cole''s funeral might have put her in the


    middle of another risky situation.


    Just then, a ck car raced up to the funeral site and came to a respectful halt at the entrance.


    Evangeline''s gaze followed the noise to the sleek car pulling up, and out stepped Celina, with someone in tow who seemed both new and oddly familiar.


    Thedy was decked out in a chic, simple white dress made of the softest camel hair, topped with a cozy little cotton jacket.


    Together, they stepped out of the car. Celina told the folks with them to hang tight outside before they made their entrance.


    As the mystery woman got closer, Evangeline''s eyes widened in recognition.


    No way it was Elliana Snyder, the overnight sensation and darling of the media.


    The Fosters were a big deal in Avalon City, sure, but they had never mixed with the celeb crowd. All of a sudden, there was Celina, pulling out all the stops to bring Elliana into the fold...


    Evangeline quickly snagged Celina''s arm, her eyes demanding an exnation.


    Celina blinked, realizing Evangeline was out of the loop.


    She nced at a ck and white photo of Cole, dabbed at her eyes, and spun Evangeline around.


    "Weren''t you the one begging Mr. Foster to get a star on board?"


    She fished out a snapshot from her pocket, and there was Elliana''s face, clear as day.


    "This is the star Mr. Foster picked out. We were nning the perfect time for her to meet Ms. Snyder when... Well, when everything with Mr. Foster went down. However, i figured, Mr. Foster would''ve wanted Ms Snyder here, no matter what."

 Chapter 606

    Celina''s eyes brimmed with tears as she moved next to the old butler, Edwin, who was also struggling to keep it together. She leaned in, her voice a soft murmur, "Mr. Jamison, is Ms. Snyder''s poster all set?" Seeing him nod, she added, "Okay, let''s get it sorted for Mr. Foster."


    Evangeline had mentioned her love for celebrities in passing. However, Cole, bless his heart, took it seriously. Despite his age, he fumbled with a smartphone he barely understood, on a quest to find his favorite star...


    Evangeline''s tears came on stronger, especially when she saw Elliana''s glossy poster in front of Cole''s old ck and white photo. She just could not hold them back.


    Elliana, looking serious and holding a bouquet of daisies, stepped up to the memorial. "Mr. Foster, we''ve never met, but I''ve known about you for ages. Being your idol, and getting invited to such a big moment in your life, it''s a huge honor for me..."


    At first, when Elliana heard about Cole from Celina, she thought it was some kind of joke. It was not until she verified who he was and when the funeral was that she decided to show up.


    Her agency thought it was a good move to mingle with the Fosters, for the sake of her career in showbiz.


    However, she came for the old man with the young heart.


    She meant it when she said she was honored and lucky to be Cole''s idol...


    After paying her respects, Evangeline did the polite thing and thanked Elliana. "Thank you, Ms. Snyder."


    Truth be told, with the buzz around Elliana those days, she did not have toe.


    "Stay strong, Ms. Evangeline," offered Elliana softly.


    Elliana gently squeezed Evangeline''s shoulder in aforting gesture. "I''ve got another appointmenting up, so I need to head out."


    She offered a warm smile and a wave as she left, her mind swirling with unanswered questions.


    It was not until they were a good distance from the funeral site that she turned to her agent, her curiosity getting the better of her.


    "Do you think the people at Cole''s funeral don''t care about celebrities? Why didn''t anyone even bat an eysh?"


    Elliana was the new darling of the entertainment world, always in the spotlight wherever she went.


    However, at that gathering, not a single person spared her a second nce It was as if they were all wrapped up in their grief over Cole''s passing, their voices reduced to mere whispers.


    The funeral was shrouded in a silence so profound it was almost tangible!


    She was no stranger to the quiet respect of a funeral, but that level of hush was new to her.


    Her agent, ever so patient, offered an exnation. Cole was a man of great importance, and it would not be right for anyone to dare cause a scene at his funeral. The significance of his words hung heavy in the air.


    Avalon City thrived under the leadership of the influential Foster and Gordon families, and the crowd was filled with individuals of substantial standing. However, the agent had chosen the word ''dare''...


    "Wasn''t this gentleman just a self-made man who built up the Foster Group from nothing?" Elliana''s confusion lingered, but it was interrupted by a clear, male voice.


    "Miss, your flower has fallen."


    With that reminder, Elliana recalled the small white flower she had pinned on her chest for the funeral.


    As she instinctively nced down, she noticed a tall figure stooping to retrieve the fallen blossom from the ground.


    Under her wide-eyed stare, the guy


    reached out and gently took her


    hand, cing a delicate white flower in her palm. His fingers, smooth and warm, brushed against her skin,


    sending a tingling sensation,


    that


    zipped all the way up to her mind. Content from N?velDr(a)ma.Org.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 607

    "T-Thank


    you."


    Elliana''s voice came out in a shaky whisper, her cheeks burning so much that she could barely get the words out.


    The guy just gave a slight, calm smile. "No problem. See ya."


    They were at a funeral on a grassywn, and the man had picked up the white flower, getting a bit of dirt on his fingertips.


    "Sir!" Elliana could not help but stop him as he turned to leave, noticing the dirt. She felt a wave of embarrassment as she offered, "Your hand... it''s got dirt on it. Need a tissue?"


    She reached for the zipper on her jacket.


    He looked at his hand as if he would just notice, nced at the dirt, and casually wiped it away. "I''m good, thanks."


    He did not look back after that, but Elliana could not help but watch his retreating figure for a long while until her agent interrupted her thoughts.


    "Ms. Snyder? We''ve got an hour before our next gig, and it''s a bit of a drive. We should head out now or we might bete..."


    Elliana snapped out of her daze. "Right, let''s go."


    Meanwhile, Yale, who had been weing guests at the funeral home, was giving histe-arriving youngest brother Aemon a hard look. "Do you even know what today is? Where have you been? You''re sote."


    If Aemon had shown up sooner, he could have stepped in for Evangeline, letting her catch a break earlier.


    Aemon, aware he was in the wrong and feeling a twinge of guilt, ran his hand through his ck hair and mumbled, "Sorry, Yale, got caught up with something."


    Well, if helping a girl pick up her stuff counted, then he was not exactly lying.


    Yale red at Aemon impatiently.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    His younger brother, usually rocking rainbow hair and draped in chains like a hip-hop star. Standing before him, however, he was sporting ck hair and a suit. Yale nearly did not recognize him.  en


    "You..." Yale was so taken aback he was at a loss for words.


    Aemon fidgeted with his suit, managing a weak smile. "It''s been ages since Ist wore a suit, not sure if Dad would''ve liked it..."


    As those words hung in the air, the brothers fell silent, their eyes drawn to the ck and white photo ahead, tears streaming down uncontrobly. Yale, the big brother, fought back his tears, giving Aemon''s shoulder a reassuring pat. "Dad would''ve loved it, no doubt!"


    Cole had once said, back in his younger days, that out of all five brothers, the fourth one rocked a suit best. However, Aemon had not touched a suit since he was 0 years old.


    Until... the day of Cole''s funeral.


    Yale did not know what had changed, but it did not really matter.


    Aemon slipping back into a suit and dying his hair ck meant he had made peace with himself, and the whys could just blow away with the wind. Guys were not great with heavy emotions, and Aemon did not like sharing such a sad look with Yale, so he shifted his attention to Evangeline. Evangeline''s eyes were bloodshot, her face pale, and her lips colorless, clearly overwhelmed by sorrow.


    Evangeline knew how much she cared for Cole, and that moment must have shattered her heart.


    Evangeline had deep feelings for Cole, so she must have been heartbroken in a setting like that. Aemon waste because of his own issues, which was truly


    inappropriate.

 Chapter 608

    Aemon rushed to Evangeline''s side. "Evie, let me handle this, okay? You should go and take a break over there."


    Helping Yale with the guests was not a huge task, but Evangeline was pregnant and all over the ce emotionally. How could she keep up with such stress?


    "Don''t worry, I''ve got this." Evangeline stubbornly shrugged off Aemon''s hand, determined to stay by Cole''s side until the very end.


    Aemon understood where his niece wasing from. However, seeing her pale, delicate face made his heart ache.


    "Listen to me, Evie, go on back. You''ve done enough. Let me do thisst thing for him, as his son..."


    Aemon''s voice was barely a whisper by the end, yet Evangeline caught every word.


    If it had been any other uncle, she might not have batted an eye, but this was Aemon, the one who always talked about living life on the edge. How could she not be touched?


    That was when Evangeline realized that her usually over-the-top uncle had toned it down, dressing all neat and proper.


    She remembered that''s how Cole liked it...


    Evangeline''s lips parted, and atst, she managed to say, "Okay, Uncle..."


    Julieta gave Aemon a look full of thanks and quickly steadied Evangeline. "Ms. Evangeline, let''s rest over there for a bit." She gestured to a quiet spot.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Cole''s funeral was packed, but there was that one spot, a little nook that was quieter than the rest.


    Celina squeezed in next to Evangeline, her eyes full of worry, but she kept silent.


    Evangeline, with her hand on her swollen belly, was seated, trying to find some peace in the hushed corner.


    Julieta had Celina keep an eye on Evangeline while she dashed to the car to grab a cushion, making sure Evangeline would not get poked by anything. Being pregnant and all worked up was a riskybo.


    Julieta and Celina were all over her, super protective, scared something might go wrong with Evangeline or the baby. They barely blinked.


    "Ms. Evangeline, feeling peckish? I''ve got some chicken soup here. Want a sip?" Julieta offered, pulling out the thermos she snagged while getting the cushion. Evangeline just shook her head. "Celina, Mrs. Lewis, you''ve been angels, really. Why don''t you guys chill for a bit? I''m okay for now."


    "Don''t fret, I''m all good."


    Julieta had been buzzing around non-stop, and Celina had racked her brain to get Elliana toe. Evangeline saw all that effort-how could she not appreciate it?


    "But we''re not even tired," Celina


    said, her face a shade too white. Nheless, Evangeline''s words brought out a smile, a little breath of relief, and Celina waved off the idea


    of taking a break.


    Evangeline caught Julieta''s eye and instantly knew her pleas were falling on deaf ears. She would have toe up with another way to get them to take a break.


    Right then, a familiar silhouette caught her attention. A woman in a sleek ck suit and shades was striding her way. It took Evangeline just a moment to recognize her. "Roslyn? What are you doing here?" She knew Roslyn had just finished hertest y and was swamped with promotions.


    Not wanting to add to her friend''s stress, Evangeline had not filled her in. However, with Cole''s influence in Avalon City, it was not shocking that Roslyn had the funeral details.

 Chapter 609

    Roslyn was steaming when she mentioned the situation, but her anger melted away when she reached Evangeline and saw her pale, tear-streaked face.


    "Evie, how could you keep such big news from me?" The fiery Roslyn suddenly seemed like a hurt puppy, her eyes filled with sadness as she looked at Evangeline.


    "I figured you''d be very busy, so I didn''t want to bother you..." said Evangeline.


    Roslyn nced at Evangeline''s baby bump, let out a resigned sigh, and gently took her hand, cradling it on her own. "Mr. Foster has been like family since I was a kid. I couldn''t miss his funeral."


    Funerals were a big deal, thest chance to say goodbye. They might have been simple, but they were a must for anyone who cared to show up.


    Roslyn knew what was going on in her heart, but she understood where Evangeline wasing from.


    She had been stuck on set for thetest movie, her agent keeping her in the dark about everything. It was not until she finally escaped the set that she caught up on all the drama her best friend had been through. "Evie, I''ve talked to my agent. As soon as we''re done promoting this movie, I''m all yours for a proper break, okay?"


    Roslyn was all too aware of the story between Evangeline and Cole. Evangeline needed her more than ever. She was all in, no questions asked.


    "Sounds awesome. We haven''t hung out in forever, and I still need to finish writing songs for your new album. Plus, I''ll be chilling and taking care of the baby bump, so I''ll have plenty of time."


    With Cole gone, she was even more determined to bring his much-anticipated great-grandson into the world.


    It felt like the little one growing inside her was Cole''s way of sticking around.


    While they chatted, Evangeline did not miss a beat taking care of Julieta and Celina. "Roslyn, meet Mrs. Lewis. She''s here to help me out."


    She gestured toward Celina. "And this is Celina, a new friend I''ve made."


    Evangeline was about to do the intros, but Roslyn''s easy-going vibe meant she did not need any help breaking the ice. "Hey there, I''m Evie''s best friend, Roslyn."


    She wrapped an arm around Evangeline in a tight hug and leaned in to share a secret whisper.


    "I haven''t made it over to Mr. Foster''s yet. Why don''t you take a break, and I''ll swing by there before Ie back to find you?"


    Roslyn was there for the funeral, after all. Walking in without first paying her respects to the departed was a serious faux pas. "Look, my agent finally cut me some ck and gave me the day off, so it''s no biggie if I catch up with youter."


    What Roslyn did not realize was that her words were a lifeline for Evangeline.


    She had been racking her brain for an excuse to send Celina and Julieta off to rest.


    "No way, I''ming with you."


    Evangeline gave her a quick look, then turned to Celina and Julieta


    "With Roslyn here, you guys


    stop


    worrying, right? Go on, takeak"? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    BUMS


    Roslyn saw their hesitation and stepped up. "Evie is in good hands with me, you guys can chill."


    The next moment, she slung an arm around Evangeline''s neck, her hand brushing against the pronounced


    curve of her belly. "Motherhood''et


    right around the corner? You''ve changed, Evie. You''re not the girl you used to be."

 Chapter 610

    "So, what am I like now?" asked Evangeline, her curiosity piqued as they walked arm in arm toward the funeral home. Truth be told, Roslyn was hoping Evangeline would stick by her side.


    With Cole gone, and his eldest son Yale bound to be at the reception thanking guests, she felt uneasy.


    It had been ages since she had seen him. Having Evangeline there would make things less awkward.


    The ck and white photo showcased Cole''s gentle, benevolent face.


    Roslyn looked up, studying the lines of the face she knew so well, and bowed deeply in a silent gesture of respect.


    Evangeline was just behind her, but she could not take her eyes off Cole''s photo.


    Yale looked the same as ever, his voice t as he thanked Roslyn.


    "My sympathies." Roslyn nodded politely, ready to lead Evangeline away.


    However, Yale then broke the silence. "It''s been ages, Roslyn."


    "Yeah, what, over two months?"


    Roslyn recalled thest time she saw Evangeline, who was not showing at all. Times had changed, and her baby bump was impossible to miss.


    Two months with no calls, no texts. They were like strangers in their own worlds.


    Roslyn, used to the quiet, cracked a slight smile. "You''re busy, Yale. Evie and I won''t keep you."


    She grabbed Evangeline''s arm and spun to leave, moving so fast it was almost like they were escaping. Pregnant Evangeline struggled to keep pace. Evangeline felt a pang of confusion. Was Roslyn that scared of Yale? She had never noticed before.


    Not until she caught the wistful look in Roslyn''s eyes.


    Ah, yes. Roslyn had a thing for Yale.


    However, what could Yale, the guy who was all about the family business, offer her?


    Evangeline could not guess what was going through Yale''s head.


    Thinking that, Evangeline nced back and caught Yale''s eyes still on them.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    A small smirk yed on Evangeline''s lips. She was dead certain Yale was not looking at her. That meant he had to be gazing at Roslyn. Thinking about it, Yale did seem to have a soft spot for Roslyn. Did that mean her best friend was about to be her aunt?


    She was all for it, hands down.


    After Cole''s passing, the Foster family needed something happy to lighten the heavy air. Cole would have definitely wanted to see Yale getting hitched, watching from the stars.


    However, there was something weird about the vibe between Yale and Roslyn. They obviously had the hots for each other, yet they just would not get together...


    Evangeline stroked her chin, lost in thought.


    She had no idea her silence was making Roslyn think she was still drowning in grief over Cole. Roslyn''s voice was as soft as a whisper when sheforted her, "Evie, are you... all right?"


    Roslyn''s heart ached when she gazed at Evangeline''s pale face, but she felt powerless. "I''m okay."


    Evangeline gave a reassuring wave and guided Roslyn to sit on a bench nearby.


    "I know we can''t bring the dead back,


    ��


    and Grandpa Cole... He was always so frail He neverined, but I


    knew he was fighting


    Cancer was brutal.


    battle."


    Cole always put on a brave face for Evangeline, but she was not clueless-she knew the truth.

 Chapter 611

    Theughter was just for show, a mask to keep the grown-ups from worrying.


    Evangeline''s eyes darkened with another wave of sadness.


    "You''re doing great, getting through this," said Roslyn.


    She gazed at Evangeline''s face, streaked with tears, her lips so pale and cracked that they looked like they might split.


    Just then, a waiter in uniform walked by with two steaming cups of milk.


    Roslyn stopped him, grabbed a cup, and handed it to Evangeline. "Drink some milk. You''ve got a baby to think about, remember? So try not to be too down, okay?" Roslyn knew how close Evangeline and Cole had been, and it hurt her to see her best friend so broken.


    However, her words, meant tofort, were like opening a dam. Tears flooded Evangeline''s eyes, and she began to sob uncontrobly. "How can I not be sad?"


    Memories came rushing back. She clutched Roslyn''s wrist, and when she looked up, her face was wet with tears.


    "Roslyn, do you know? It''s my fault Grandpa is gone! If I hadn''t been so set on getting David to the hospital, if Julia hadn''t kidnapped me, Grandpa wouldn''t have worried about my health... he wouldn''t have..." Evangeline''s voice broke into sobs.


    Roslyn finally understood why Evangeline had been so devastated at the funeral, and it made her heart ache even more. She held Evangeline''s hand tightly, offering silent support.


    "How could you even think that? If Mr. Foster knew you were beating yourself up over him, he''d be so upset. Evie, everyone goes through birth, aging, sickness, and death. It''s just the way life is. It''s not your fault, okay?" Roslyn''s words gently prodded the tenderest part of Evangeline''s heart.


    The image of Cole''s contented smile in his final moments shed before her. Maybe for him, leaving that world to be with his wife was the ultimate joy.


    The weight that had been crushing her heart finally lifted, but then Evangeline''s thoughts took a sudden turn.


    "Roslyn, what''s your take on my Uncle Yale?"


    She had been mulling over those two people.


    If two people who clearly cared


    about each other had been around that long without making it official, something was missing. She wanted to help them get past whatever was holding them back. ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Roslyn''s face went pale with a revealed secret, then flushed a deep red. When she faced Evangeline again, she was so flustered that she hardly knew what to say. "Look... Evie, you know you can''t just decide who you fall for, but I swear, there''s no way I''d get involved with your Uncle Yale. Don''t even think about it..."


    Evangeline was feeling all mixed


    up,


    and Roslyn could not guess her thoughts. However, if it came down to choosing between a guy and her best friend, she would pick her friend in a heartbeat.


    "What are you even saying?" Evangeline cut her off. "Roslyn, 10 really want you and Uncle Yale to be


    together. I''m just a little worried


    D.UMS


    about the age gap, that''s all.


    "Age doesn''t matter, you know."


    Roslyn''s cheeks turned a deep shade of pink, and she hid her face behind her hands as if she could shield her emotions from the world. Her reaction said it all.


    "But wouldn''t that make you mad, Evie?"


    "Why would it?" Evangeline replied, her brow furrowed in confusion.

 Chapter 612

    "You know I''m your best friend, and now I''ve gone and fallen for..."


    Roslyn trailed off, too shy to finish, but she was sure Evangeline would get it.


    "What''s so bad about having a crush? And honestly, I''ve always thought you''re too awesome to just hand off to anyone. If it''s Uncle Yale... I guess that''s not too bad."


    Yale was all about his job, and she could not even begin to imagine what a rtionship with him would look like.


    "You really think that?"


    A glimmer of hope shone in Roslyn''s eyes, but it was quickly clouded by sadness. Yale had turned her down before, saying the age difference and Evangeline being in the mix was too much. How could they ever work? However, Evie seemed to be saying she was fine with them as a couple. So, Yale''s reasons were just excuses to push her away.


    "Evie, don''t stress about me and Yale. You''ve got your own thing-taking care of the new Foster family addition!"


    Roslyn tried to sound nonchnt. "As for us... we''ll just see where things go."


    Deep down, after months of silence, Roslyn had let go of the fairy-tale future she had once dreamed up.


    Falling for someone was like a rollercoaster ride packed with thrills and surprises. Just having that special someone be a part of her life was a gift. As for the journey ahead, she could walk it with him in her heart. That would not have been so bad, would it? Roslyn''s eyes were a storm of emotions, but all Evangeline could see was a sea of disappointment.


    She knew her best friend like the back of her hand. Roslyn''s fiery spirit could not handle the torture of a crush that was all shades of confusion. A confession was bound to happen, and that look of letdown screamed rejection.


    Evangeline figured she knew why Yale would say no. It was probably the whole age and generation gap thing.


    "Roslyn, if you''re really into him, you''ve got to go for it. Plus, I think..." Yale did care about her.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Evangeline''s words were cut short as a sharp pain stabbed through her lower belly, silencing her. A wave of cold sweat washed over her forehead.


    Then, without warning, she swayed and crashed to the floor.


    Roslyn was clueless about what was going on until she saw Evangeline on the ground, clutching her stomach for dear life.


    The thought of the baby inside her sent Roslyn into a frenzy.


    "Evie, what''s happening?"


    "My... stomach..."


    Evangeline sucked in a breath through gritted teeth, barely squeezing out the words.


    The baby inside her was kicking up a storm, and all of a sudden, it was like a wild dance in her belly.


    Gripping her stomach, Evangeline could not move from the pain. Suddenly, a burning heat rushed from her lower body, her world spun, and darkness took her.


    Roslyn''s voice pierced the air,


    desperate to get the Foster family''s


    attention. However, as she turned


    around, her eyes caught the horrifying sight of blood pooting under Evangeline...


    Cole''s funeral had been a picture of order until chaos erupted.


    The guests, wary of the Foster family''s dark secrets, ran at the first sign of trouble. The once-crowded service emptied in an instant, leaving only the Foster brothers and their vignt bodyguards.


    nee


    Yale, the eldest, had to stay and honor the deceased, but the family needed its men to keep things under control. So it was Holden, the perceptive third brother, and James, the youngest who was closest to Evangeline''s age, who rushed her to the hospital...

 Chapter 613

    Amid the turmoil, the spot where Evangeline had just sat was littered with the remains of a milk-drenched cup. A waiter, d in uniform, tightened his white gloves and carefully collected the fragments, pausing only to dial a number. "Ms. Rearden, the funeral has gone haywire, and Evangeline is en route to the hospital..."


    Julia''s voice crackled with excitement on the line. "Did that wretch lose the baby?"


    Julia had been waiting for days for some shred of good news, and it seemed to have arrived. How could she contain her glee?


    She had loathed Evangeline, wishing her dead at first. However, after Walter''s cruel treatment, her wishes took a darker turn.


    She relished the thought of Evangeline enduring a fate far crueler than death.


    Evangeline was head over heels for Walter. If she lost the baby she was carrying, would that not just crush her?


    The funeral for that old man from the Foster family? She could not care less. It was not her beloved grandpa, and she would not see a dime of the money he left behind. What did any of it have to do with her?


    The waiter nced at the bright red blood on the floor. "That''s a lot of blood. Doesn''t look good."


    His job was to take people out, not patch them up. Why his boss would think he would know anything about that was beyond him.


    "Okay, okay, okay," said Julia repeatedly. "Keep an eye on Evangeline''s situation. The moment you''re sure she''s lost the baby, let me know!"


    The waiter''s voice was steady and sure, "Got it."


    When Celina heard about Evangeline''s sudden bleeding, she wanted to go with her to the hospital but could not squeeze into the car. She thought about how much Evangeline would want Cole''s funeral to go smoothly, even from her hospital bed. That settled it for her. She decided to stay at the funeral, figuring she might be more useful there.


    With the crowd thinning out, there was not much for Celina to do at the funeral.


    The news of Evangeline''s bleeding hit her out of the blue. At first, she was stunned. Then she thought about it Cole was gone, and


    Evangeline was devastated,


    It made


    sense, in a tragic way, that the baby


    might be affected.


    However, the bleeding... It seemed so sudden, did it not?


    When Julieta and she were hanging out with Evangeline, she was fine-no bellyaches or anything. Her best friend Roslyn would never want to hurt Evangeline.


    However, something was off, and


    Celina could not shake the feeling. She skirted around the funeral home where Yale was holed up and made her way to the spot where


    Evangeline had been sel


    earlier. ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    up


    She expected the ce to be deserted. Instead, there was a waiter in uniform, bent over and scanning the ground like he was on a treasure hunt. "What... are you looking for?"


    Celina eyed him, puzzled, but then she saw his tray was littered with sparkly ss bits and splotches of milk.


    The waiter jumped, then wore a professional grin when he saw Celina.


    "Hey there I''m on cleanup duty for


    the funeral. Dropped a milk ss and we can''t have guests stepping on ss, right? So the manager sent me to deal with it, pronto."


    It all sounded legitimate, so Celina did not think much of it.


    The chair that tripped up Evangeline was standing straight again, and Celina plopped down without giving it another thought, watching the waiter do his thing. Out of the blue, she spotted something that piqued her curiosity.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 614

    Cole''s funeral was out in the open, but the chill-out and eatery spots were under those fancy pop-up tents.


    Thanks to the Foster family''s power, even those temporary digs that wereing downter lookedvish,plete with a plush, dark red carpet underfoot.


    Logically, when a carpet got a milk spill, a quick spot-clean was all that was needed until the party was over. However, that server scooped up the whole milk-splotched carpet, bundled it up quickly, and made to cart it off. Celina eyed him curiously,


    He had a face as big as a palm, skin like porcin, and a thin frame, yet he hoisted a carpet heavy as a sack of bricks without breaking a sweat. "You''ve got some muscle on you, kid," she noted.


    The server shot her a look, his eyes crinkling with a grin. "It''s nothing special. I''m always doing stuff like this, so I''m used to it."


    Celina pressed on, "Which outfit are you with? You''re hauling off the whole carpet for a bit of milk. You got a thing for cleanliness or what?" Running a beauty salon had given Celina a knack for reading people.


    That nce he gave her told her he was no regr server.


    He coolly replied, "Yeah, I have a real thing about dirt. I''ve got to get rid of it. Catch youter, gorgeous."


    He waved off Celina and walked away. Watching him go, Celina''s gut told her something was off.


    That was where Evangeline took her spill, next to a shattered milk ss.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Celina had not been tailing Evangeline, so whether she had had a sip before the tumble was anyone''s guess.


    However, one thing was crystal clear: milk ss or no milk ss, something suspicious was going on.


    The waiter who scooped up all the broken pieces of the milk cup and the carpet was definitely the prime suspect.


    ...


    At Avalon City General Hospital.


    Evangeline, her face as pale as the moon, was rolled out of the operating room by the hospital crew.


    In the huge room, Julieta was right there waiting.


    "Ms. Evangeline, how are you feeling? Still hurting?"


    Hurting?


    Evangeline''s mind went nk for a second, then her hand sneaked under the covers to her belly.


    The bump that had been there was gone, leaving nothing but a haunting tness.


    t?


    Her eyes popped wide open, and she jolted upright, showing Julieta her belly. "Mrs. Lewis, my belly''s t, but where''s the baby? What happened to my child?"


    Julieta, tried


    you''re othe her, "Ms. Evangeline


    . You''ll have more kids


    someday."


    The Foster family''s third and fifth sons hade to the hospital too, standing in the room sorrowfully.


    Cole was gone, and so was the baby Evangeline was carrying.


    Why did bad luck keep tailing Evangeline? Why could she not catch a break and just be happy?


    Evangeline saw the look on her uncles'' faces and knew-her baby was gone.


    "How can that be? Uncle, my baby was so healthy! How could he just vanish?" How could such a ring mystery slip past the Foster boys'' detective-like instincts?


    Evangeline''s world turned upside down when she started bleeding out of nowhere. The hospital ran tests, but everything came back normal.

 Chapter 615

    The doctor theorized that maybe it was Evangeline''s heartache, her rollercoaster emotions, that caused such a massive bleed, putting the baby at risk. However, how could Holden, her uncle, ever bring himself to say that to her?


    "Evie, maybe it just wasn''t meant to be with this baby. And hey, you''re about to kick that jerk Walter to the curb with a divorce. Keeping the baby wouldn''t be the best for you."


    Holden eased down next to Evangeline, gently pulling her into a half-hug, letting her rest against him. "Sometimes things end, but you''ve got your whole life ahead. Why tie yourself down with Walter''s kid? One day you''ll meet someone amazing, and you can start a family then. Wouldn''t that be so much better?"


    Holden''s words were careful, but Evangeline got the painful message loud and clear.


    Without Walter, any child she had would grow up fatherless, and it could mess up her chances of finding happiness with someone else down the line.


    Maybe it was better to let go then, to one day have a child with someone new, someone who would be in it with her, for real.


    Even so... that was her and Walter''s baby.


    Evangeline knew she could not argue with her uncle''s logic, so she kept the hurt bottled up inside.


    The tears would not stop.


    Life had a strange way of showing her what was hers and what was not. Cole was gone, and so was the baby. It was as if the universe was saying that some things, no matter how hard someone fought for them, just were not meant to stay. Maybe Evangeline and Walter''s rtionship was a mistake after all.


    Holden''sforting voice was still in her ear.


    "Come on, let''s not see you down, okay? The little one was just too delicate, and that''s why we lost him. Once we''re out of the hospital, we''ll focus on getting stronger, and then we''ll bring a healthy, bouncing baby boy into the Foster family!


    "Okay." Evangeline''s eyes were wet with tears, but she managed a small smile for her Uncle Holden who was embracing her.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    James could not help but feel his own eyes dampen as he watched the tender moment.


    "I had a feeling we might not be able to save the baby. Ever since I got pregnant, I''ve been feeling down, and then with everything else that happened... Maybe the baby was disappointed in me, and that''s why he left..."


    Evangeline med herself for the loss, for not being strong enough for not keeping her spirits up, and for letting her sadness affect the little one inside her.


    Just then, James''s phone rang.


    He checked the caller ID, and it was Yale.


    "Hey, what''s going on?"


    Yale''s voice came through, deep and serious, "James, how is Evie doing?"


    "Ah, the surgery was done, but... we couldn''t save the baby," he spoke with a hint of sorrow.


    Despite the doctors'' best efforts, Evangeline''s bleeding was not something that could be easily controlled, and she was still at risk of severe hemorrhage. He had expected Yale, as the concerned uncle, to ask him to pass on someforting words to Evangeline, but instead...


    "I need to talk to you about something serious. Hang up now and call me back from somewhere private, okay?"


    James got the message loud and clear. ncing at Evangeline, he reassured the caller with a nod, "Don''t worry, Holden and I have Evie''s back."


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 Chapter 616

    Once the call ended, James turned to Evangeline and said, "Your Uncle Yale is really worried about you. He even called to check in."


    Yale''s concern for Evangeline was a given, so neither Holden nor Evangeline thought much of it.


    As the twoforted each other, James slipped out of the room, making up an excuse to call Yale back without dy. "What''s going on, Yale?"


    "Evie didn''t get suspicious, did she?" Yale was always protective of his niece, and she was his first concern.


    "Nope, I''m far enough from the room now. You can talk."


    "Okay." Yale let out a sigh of relief. "I''m starting to think that Evangeline''s baby didn''t just die. Someone might have... you know."


    "Julia."


    James did not wait for Yale to finish; he had the same hunch.


    "I''ve been thinking the same thing. Evie''s pregnancy was smooth sailing-good food, and good sleep. Nothing that should''ve hurt the baby, especially not like that sudden bleeding."


    "Yale, did you find any proof?" James knew his brother too well. Yale would not stir the pot without something solid to go on.


    "Do you remember Celina, the girl Evie rescued downtown? Shortly after you guys took off, she told me something weird. Where Evangeline had her fall, there was a spilled cup of milk, but get this-the waiter whisked away the whole carpet. Not a single milk spot was left behind.


    "I even rang up Roslyn, and she confirmed Evie had hot milk right before her stomach started acting up.


    "So, the missing link is that hot milk, snatched up by the waiter. However, how does Julia fit into this puzzle?"


    Guesswork was not worth much without proof.


    James, with hisw degree, knew that better than anyone.


    However, there was no way he would let his niece take the fall for something she did not do.


    The real shocker was who he suspected as the perpetrator.


    "You''re out of the loop, huh? Celina is actually on Julia''s payroll. And wouldn''t you know it, she spotted that waiter while she was tailing Julia!"


    The pieces were nearly all in ce; they just needed theb report on the milk.


    Then it hit James like a bolt of lightning.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "I get it now. If Evie drank that milk, there has to still be traces of it in her stomach! I need to tell her, now!"


    "Of course! Why didn''t I see it?" Yale pped his forehead, the realization dawning on him. "I''ll handle the waiter. You... Have a careful chat with Evie, okay? Break it to her gently..."


    James knew his niece inside and out.


    If she found out her baby was targeted, she would go through hell and high water to nail the guilty party.


    Evangeline had just gone through


    the heartbreak of losing her child Hearing more bad news then


    seemed almost too harsh. James felt a pang of sympathy for her as he thought about it.


    He gently pushed the hospital room door open and saw Roslyn, who had quietlye in. She put her finger to her lips, signaling him to be quiet, then motioned for him toe outside.


    However, James had something pressing to do.


    Every minute that milk stayed in Evangeline''s stomach, the chances of a botched sample increased.


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 Chapter 617

    Roslyn, noticing James was not budging, hurried over to him and whispered urgently, "Why aren''t you leaving? Evie just managed to fall asleep. She wakes up so easily, we shouldn''t wake her..." James got where Roslyn wasing from; she always put Evangeline first. However, he had no choice but to disturb her sleep.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He gave Roslyn a reassuring wave and crept over to Evangeline''s bed.


    Her eyes were closed tight, still damp with the remnants of tears.


    Without thinking, James reached out and gently wiped away the wet streaks beneath her eyes. "Evie, if you''re not sleeping,e on and sit up. I have something to tell you."


    He swallowed a sigh, his gaze fixed on Evangeline with quiet intensity.


    Slowly, Evangeline''s eyes fluttered open, red and veined with tiny threads, glistening with unshed tears. "Uncle James, I..."


    She could not finish her sentence before a wave of sobs took over, and tears began to fall like raindrops.


    Evangeline tried to push down the wave of hurt that rose inside her when James mentioned he had something serious to talk about.


    James, noticing Evangeline''s effort to stayposed, gently took her hand in his. "Evie, what I''m about to tell you mighte as a shock, but please, promise me you''ll stay calm, alright?" Evangeline''s gaze met his, and a chill of dread crept up her spine.


    Still, after Cole''s death and losing the baby, what news could possibly make things worse?


    "I''ll stay calm, I promise."


    With Evangeline''s assurance, James continued, "The truth is, your baby didn''t go away because you were upset. It''s very likely that Julia had a hand in it. However, with everyone focused on Cole''s funeral, the real viin had a chance to sweep away afPthe evidence."


    "What do you need me to do?" Evangeline cut in, her voice steady.


    She had suspected Julia might be behind it, but how? Julia had not even been at Cole''s funeral. Then it hit her-a memory of a cup of hot milk, served by Roslyn''s own hands. "Was it the milk? Was there something wrong with it?"


    James was taken aback by her


    quick deduction. He nodded gravely. "Yes, but the milk and everything else was cleared away by a server and your blood tests didn''t show anything. Our only hope now might be what''s left in your stomach."


    That meant that even after the heartbreaking surgery to remove her unborn child, Evangeline had to face the ordeal of induced vomiting.


    Evangeline gently shut her eyes, her


    thoughts drifting to the child she


    would never get to meet. With a determined bite of her lip, she steeled herself. "Let''s do this. I''ll do whatever it takes!"


    A mother''s love knew no bounds. If it meant confirming that Julia was the one who hurt her, if it meant getting justice for her lost little one, she was ready for anything.


    With a swift gesture, James signaled the medical team that had been waiting at the door. They rushed in and quickly made their way to Evangeline''s side.


    Roslyn, oblivious to the exchange between the cousin and uncle, only saw the medical team as they began their work on Evangeline.


    "What''s happening? Evie, are you okay?"


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 Chapter 618

    She hurried closer and was shocked to see a thick tube already inserted into Evangeline''s mouth.


    Unable to speak, Evangeline could only wave to Roslyn, giving her a reassuring look.


    Roslyn trusted that James would not harm Evangeline, but it broke her heart to see her in such distress.


    Why did Evangeline, the cherished princess of the Foster family, blessed with a prestigious background and remarkable talents, have to face such trials? Luckily, there was not much left in Evangeline''s stomach, but they managed to retrieve a trace of milk.


    James saw the sample and immediately ordered it to be sent for analysis.


    In an instant, the once bustling hospital room was left eerily quiet.


    Julieta had gone back to the family''s old house to make some healing chicken soup for Evangeline, leaving her alone with Roslyn and James.


    "Uncle James, how did you guys even start suspecting Julia?" said Evangeline. No matter what Julia did, Evangeline would not bat an eye.


    However, James, with his legal mind, would not point fingers without some solid proof.


    "It was your buddy Celina," he revealed. "She recognized the waiter who was cleaning up the shattered milk ss. Said she''d seen him working for Julia before."


    He continued, "You know how it is. Your Uncle Yale and I don''t let anything suspicious slide. And when ites to the Foster kids, even the ones not yet born, we can''t let their stories end without an exnation!" Evangeline nodded, signaling to James that she got the message.


    "Uncle James, count me in on getting to the bottom of this. Because... I can''t stand the thought of my baby''s fate being so... murky."


    A mother''s intuition was never


    wrong. Her baby had been so full of


    life inside her, kicking and squirming all the time. That weird pain she felt right before she fell made her.


    suspect foul y even moreelt


    swnov


    However, Celina,ing forward with her hunch to the uncles? That was a twist Evangeline had not seening.


    She had always known Celina was in Julia''s corner.


    Evangeline was not one to twist arms, and though she had toyed with the idea of bringing Celina over to her side, she never truly tried. Celina had started to think for herself, and Evangeline could not be happier about it. Maybe it was the perfect time for Celina to join her.


    ...


    "Achoo!" Huddled outside the shed, Celina gave her nose a rub and kept zoning out as she stared at the ground.


    It hit her only after she had confessed to Yale. What was she even doing?


    ''Celina, you''re from the Bennison family, Julia''s right hand, remember? Isn''t this just like betraying them?"


    She squeezed her eyes shut, the


    pain throbbing in her temples. All she could see was her grandfather''s gentle, smiling face. However, she was the one who had made it out of the Bennison family''s brutal clean-up. Even if she stayed loyal, what good would it do? They had already kicked her to the curb, and she could not bear to think of what might have happened to her grandpa. Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    Maybe, once things settled down with Evangeline, she would have to hit the road. She longed to go back home, to see her grandpa. Maybe, just maybe, she could bring him


    back there to live...


    Just then, a pair of glossy ck shoes caught her eye. She did not get up, just let her gaze drift up from the shoes to meet a face that was all high-and-mighty coldness.


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 Chapter 619

    Celina stood up in surprise and blurted, "Mr. Walter Gordon, Mr. Yale Foster is inside. Should I let him know you''re here?"


    She barely knew Walter, and any time they crossed paths, it was through David, the go-between. She was not naive enough to think Walter hade out there just for her. Out of the blue...


    "Ms. Morris, can we talk for a minute?" Walter gestured for Celina to join him.


    He was supposed to have left with Trey after saying goodbye, but something inside him was restless. He ended up driving back to the funeral site.


    He had expected Cole''s funeral to be a long affair, but when Walter got back, the ce was deserted. Weird, he thought.


    Just as he was about to ask someone what happened, he spotted Celina squatting by the lounge entrance, zoning out.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    It was like stumbling upon the very thing he had been searching for without even trying.


    He had been wanting to talk to Celina for ages but never got the chance. Atst, she was right there, and he was not about to walk away.


    Celina was well aware of the tension between Walter and David, and the different sides they were on. She had always turned down requests to ry messages from Evangeline. Faced with Walter himself, she was just as dismissive.


    "Mr. Walter Gordon, I really don''t think there''s anything for us to talk about." Celina''s gaze was intense, her face an icy mask.


    She did not look at Walter with any of the deference he might have expected from someone of a lower status.


    "You might not have anything to say to Mr. Walter Gordon, but you might have something to say to David''s brother, Walter," he said, not giving her a chance to reject him.


    "I was the one who sent David on ast-minute mission that took him out of Avalon City, and I''m sorry for


    the mix-up it caused beyou


    wn


    two..."


    Celina raised an eyebrow. "Was it his idea for you to talk to me?"


    She had pegged Walter as the type who, like her standoffish boss, would not give a hoot about his underlings, only bothering to talk shop when they met face to face.


    en


    However, there he was, proving her wrong. Celina found herself unexpectedly intrigued by Walter.


    "Nope." Walter shook his head. "David chose to extend his business trip on his own. He''s clueless about meing to chat with you." "Off on another trip, I see..."


    Celina mused, "Mr. Walter Gordon, I''ve listened to your spiel, and I got the message loud and clear. So, we''re done here."


    She was ready to walk away, but she then thought of Evangeline, who was in the hospital.


    The baby inside Evangeline was Walter''s, after all. Even a beast would not harm its own offspring.


    Walter might be over Evangeline, but he had to care about his kid, right?


    "Oh, and Mr. Walter Gordon," Celina added, "consider this a tip for the news you''ve brought me: you''d better go see the Foster family''s Mr. Yale Foster now, or else... you''re going to kick yourselfter


    With a mysterious look, Celina dropped that enigmatic bomb and spun on her heel to leave.


    She could not do much more here, and with Evangeline''s condition up in the air at the hospital, she needed to make tracks.


    Walter, baffled but wary of regret, decided he would better take her advice and pay a visit.

 Chapter 620

    The funeral home was huge and quiet with Yale standing in ck attire, a solemn figure in front of Cole''s memorial. His face was a mask of seriousness as he stood silently. Walter edged closer, positioning himself just behind Yale. "Why are you here?" Yale''s voice was a low rumble, his question direct, not bothering to look back.


    "Didn''t you already pay your respects? Or is it that the Gordon family''s heir has nothing better to do today, so bored that you''re crashing my funeral for a bit of drama?"


    Yale''s tone was sharp, and Walter could not hide his surprise.


    Everyone knew Yale as the stoic head of the Foster family, a man who rarely let his emotions show, so why was he openly rebuking someone at this moment?


    There had to be a backstory.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, did I... upset you?" Walter asked cautiously.


    He was aware of Cole''s passing and Evangeline''s fragile mood. He had left the funeral early, not wanting to cause her any more distress.


    If he still managed to get on Yale''s bad side after all that, he was at a loss for what else he could do.


    Yale''sugh was icy and humorless.


    Upset? It was far more than that.


    The thought of all the pain Evangeline had suffered because of Walter made Yale wish he could tear him apart.


    "Walter, I''m going to give you a piece of advice. Stay away from our Evie from now on, and keep your distance from the Foster family too. It''d be best if you never crossed paths with us again.


    "After all, not everyone in the Foster family is as patient as I am. If they run into you, they might not be able to stop themselves from giving you a piece of their mind!"


    For example, there was Holden, the third-born and the family''s top defender.


    "Mr. Yale Foster, what are you saying?"


    Walter was painfully aware that his past blunders had made him less


    his


    than popr with Evangeline''s five uncles. However, the baby Evangeline was carrying was and that meant something. "Once Evangeline''s baby is born, I''ve got to step up as a dad. We''ve got to see each other, right?"


    He was counting the days until the baby''s arrival, hoping it would bridge the gap between the Gordons and the Fosters.


    "Still hung up on the baby, huh?"


    Yale''s voice was icy, tinged with a sigh, "Evje wanted to have this baby for your Gordon family, but sadly... your family''s luck has run out. No baby for you."  en


    It was rare for Yale to be so biting.


    Walter was too shocked to even think about Yale''s tone. "What do you mean, no baby? Evangeline''s been pregnant for months!"


    Yale''s gaze was frosty. "You think a few months of pregnancy means the baby is safe? The Gordons haven''t done enough good in the world, and that means no baby, period."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Walter''s mess with Julia had brought nothing but pain to Evangeline. It was clear to Yale that the Gordons''ck of goodness was the root of all Evangeline''s troubles.


    "If you race over to the General


    Hospital right now, you might still catch a glimpse of your kid''s body, Wait any longer, and who knows if you''ll be so lucky. They don''t care if it''s a lly formed embryo, it gets tossed out like any other medical waste."


    He did it with purpose. Yale could not help but revel in the sight of Walter''s anguished face.


    The deeper Walter''s pain, the brighter Yale''s joy shone.


    Drowning in the sweet rush of vengeance, Yale had a startling epiphany-he was different somehow.


    He despised wickedness with a fiery passion, would zone out there and then, lost in his own world, grappling with his personal demons.


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 Chapter 621

    The moment everything changed was...


    Yale''s gaze snapped upward, but Walter, who had just been there, was then nowhere to be seen.


    That guy sure knew how to make a quick exit.


    ...


    Walter was already speeding toward Avalon City General Hospital. His hands shook as he drove, Yale''s words echoing in his head.


    ''You think a few months into a pregnancy means the baby is safe?''


    Meaning, Evangeline''s baby was gone. Their baby was gone.


    How? The baby had been so strong, its kicks so powerful. How could it just be gone?


    Walter raced to the hospital, bursting into Evangeline''s room. There she was, pale as a ghost on the hospital bed.


    Evangeline had always been stunning, but at this moment, she looked frail. Her hair was a mess, her chin pointed, her cheeks sunken, her eyes dull, and her lips colorless. She was poring over a stack of papers, her hands visibly shaking with each page.


    As Walter moved to rush to her side, Roslyn blocked his path, standing like a sentinel before Evangeline.


    "You''ve got some nerve showing up here to see Evie, Walter! If you know what''s good for you, you''ll turn around and leave," Roslyn''s voice boomed, fierce with protection. Her words jolted Evangeline back to reality.


    The moment Evangeline looked up, there was Walter, his face a mix of the Walter she knew and a stranger. She nced at the report she was clutching. She took a deep breath, pushing down the whirlwind of feelings inside her, and tried to sound as steady as possible. "What''s up, Walter?"


    As she spoke, Evangeline reached out with her free hand and nudged Roslyn, who was standing protectively in front of her.


    Roslyn got the hint and stepped aside, giving Walter space to talk to Evangeline directly.


    Walter had sprinted to the hospital room, and by the time he arrived, he was a sweaty, anxious mess.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    However, looking into Evangeline''s serene eyes, he felt a sudden emptiness that tripped up his words.


    "I, I heard... the baby''s gone..."


    "Yes, the baby''s gone," Evangeline cut him off, her voice faltering for a moment when she got to the word ''baby''.


    She still could not wrap her head around the fact that her baby was truly gone.


    However, what did it matter? Gone was gone.


    She could not believe it, and believing would not bring the baby back.


    "It''s gone, just gone," Walter stuttered, which was unusual for him. Seeing Evangeline, looking like she had been through a lifetime of sorrow wiped away all his other emotions, leaving a raw ache in his chest.


    Right then, nothing mattered more than Evangeline''s well-being.


    Besides...


    "You''ve got to take care of yourself. There will be other chances for kids."


    He said it, but even Walter did not sound convinced.


    He knew how much Evangeline had longed for a child.


    Ever since Evangeline and Walter tied the knot, she had pulled out all the stops, even ying the


    seductress, all to have a baby With him. However, her drive was fueled by Cole''s illness.


    With Cole gone, was there still a chance for them to start a family?


    Evangeline''sugh broke through the silence, shining bright against her ghostlyplexion. It was like a winter lily, white with a streak of life, a beauty that seemed almost too vibrant to be real.


    "Any guesses on how we lost this one, Walter?" she teased with a bittersweet edge.

 Chapter 622

    Evangeline''s eyes briefly touched the medical report before she smoothed it out on the bed, angled for Walter to see.


    She had just gone through the wringer, enduring a painful procedure to help the doctors with their tests. The results were in, and the thick 30-page report seemed to end too quickly for her liking. The doctor''s final verdict, afterparing her new results with the previous ones, was a bombshell that rocked her world.


    As she red at Walter, the source of her misery, her heart seethed with hate.


    If only she were not so drained, she would confront him, demanding to know what he would give for the lives of Cole and their baby.


    Evangeline knew better than to let her anger take over. She closed her eyes, trapping the fury behind her darkshes. When she opened them again, Walter had the report in his hands.


    Roslyn hovered anxiously by Evangeline''s hospital bed, her eyes locked on her friend with unwavering intensity.


    Out of the blue, Evangeline''s voice cut through the silence. "Roslyn, step out for a bit, will you? I need to have a word with Walter."


    Her voice was eerily even, her emotions unreadable. She had reached a decision, a turning point, right after she had nced at theb report and let it fall from her hands.


    It was time to close the chapter with Walter for good.


    Cole was gone, the baby lost, their connection had been reduced to nothing more than a tangled web of family business.


    Evangeline was ready to step out of Walter''s long shadow and chase the happiness Cole had wished for her in his final moments.


    Her heart was calm, a sereneke undisturbed by ripples.


    "You..." Roslyn stuttered, torn, her feet seemingly glued to the floor.


    Julieta had trusted Roslyn''s closeness to Evangeline and her meticulous care, which was why she had left to prepare a healing brothe the old house. However, Roslyn was carrying the weight of a terrible mistake-she had served Evangeline drugged milk that led to the loss of her child. The guilt was crushing.N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    If she failed to look after Evangeline then, it would be unforgivable, not just to Julieta, but to her own conscience.


    Evangeline, sensing Roslyn''s inner


    turmoil, reclined against her pillow


    vel


    and reassured her with a gentle squint and a soft whisper, "Go ahead, the bodyguard''s right outside. Walter wouldn''t dare hurt


    me. I''ll be fine."


    "Alright, just... be careful, okay?" Roslyn replied, finally stepping away.


    Roslyn''s eyes narrowed as they scanned Walter, a sharp re warning him before she took her time strolling out of the hospital room.


    Walter, the big shot running Gordon


    Group, was a legend for getting


    things done at lightning speed, and that included skimming through piles of paperwork in a sh. However, that time, as he flipped through the report, his finger pausing on each page, his gaze froze on the final diagnosis. The words confirmed his worst fears, and a wave of rage he could not contain crashed over him.


    "Who''s behind this?" He had had that nagging suspicion ever since he found out something was wrong with Evangeline''s pregnancy.


    Then, with proof in hand, he was desperate to find out who in Avalon City had the guts to target his family.


    Evangeline let out a bitterugh. "Who else, Walter? You really don''t have a clue?"


    In all of Avalon City, the only person who had it out for him was Julia.

 Chapter 623

    However, Julia on her own was powerless. What could she do without the shadowy backers who made it a breeze for her to strike at Evangeline''s unborn child without anyone catching on? Evangeline was seething with hate. She hated that Walter had let a predator into their lives, hated that she was not strong enough to protect her own baby.


    "Who else could it be but Julia, your devoted girlfriend?" she spat out. "Walter, I''ve told you over and over, and I''ve told her too. Why can''t you two just leave my child alone?"N?velDrama.Org content.


    The miscarriage was tragic, not so much for the physical toll it took on her, but for the tiny life within her that had begun to stir, then never to see the light of day.


    "Evangeline, I... I had no idea..."


    Evangeline''s revtion blindsided Walter.


    Since Julia''s daring escape from that forsaken warehouse, Walter''s crew had not caught even a whisper of her whereabouts.


    As for Julia''s motives? He was clueless.


    Still...


    "How could I ever harm my own child?"


    "I get it, you wouldn''t. But you''ve got to face the music, Walter. This child is gone because of you. If you hadn''t been so wrapped up with Julia, if you hadn''t caught her eye, none of this-this mess-would''ve happened." Evangeline inhaled sharply.


    It took every ounce of her willpower to keep from going off on Walter, to not lose it andsh out at the man who had no business being a father.


    However, she held back.


    She was the cherished princess of the illustrious Foster family, a lineage of prestige and privilege.


    Once upon a time, Evangeline had sacrificed her pride and the Foster family''s honor for Walter, letting him trample it all underfoot without a


    second thought.


    She would not-could not let history repeat itself. No matter how furious she felt, she remained the Foster family''s unrivaled princess. "No way!"


    Walter''s voice cracked through the silence as if he just had a lightning bolt of a thought.


    "How can you be so certain it''s Julia? Got any proof? What if it''s not her..."


    What if it was not Julia? What if someone else was behind the harm that came to a child of two people? Would Evangeline ease up on the me she ced on herself even just a bit?  en


    Walter was freaking out.


    He looked into Evangeline''s eyes, so calm and indifferent, like a still pond, and he was a mess, clueless about what to do next.


    Evangeline was the only one who could throw him into that kind of tailspin.


    It was only because of Evangeline that he was babbling like a fool, his words tumbling out without a lick of logicall to find some way to make her hate him a little less...


    Sadly, his words backfired big time. To Evangeline, Walter''s panic painted a whole different picture.


    Was he that desperate to make excuses for Julia, to the point of making no sense at all? Was Julia that big of a deal to him?


    It felt like a punch to Evangeline''s heart, but then, like a cruel slideshow, the images of Walter and Julia cozying up on a big bed shed through her mind.


    The truth was right there, and she had been a fool, seeing it all and still holding onto a silly hope for something more with Walter...

 Chapter 624

    The rage that Evangeline had been bottling up could not be held back any longer.


    "Get out!"


    Her shout took Walter by surprise. With a powerful swing, she hurled the pillow from the bed straight at him with all her might.


    "Just go, Walter! I never want to see you or Julia again ever!"


    The anguished cry echoed through the hospital room, slipping through the door crack. Roslyn, with Celina trailing behind, did not hesitate they burst into the room and were met with chaos.


    Evangeline, in the grip of madness, was throwing anything she could get her hands on at Walter. Papers flew from his hands as he ducked and weaved, scattering across the floor with the glittering shards of broken ss. The room was a disaster zone.


    Roslyn''s heart broke at the sight of Evangeline. Ignoring the risk to her own feet, she dashed to Evangeline''s side and wrapped her arms around her. "I''ll get him out of here, I''ll have the guards take him away! Calm down, Evie, please? You''re too weak for this-it''s not worth wrecking yourself over him..."


    Her voice was a gentle whisper, her hand tenderly patting Evangeline''s slender back.


    The gentle touch worked wonders, Evangeline''s rage subsided, but then she burst into tears.


    "Roslyn... Roslyn, my baby... my baby''s gone..."


    Evangeline''s face was buried in Roslyn''s shoulder, her emotions flooding out in a torrent of tears.


    "It''s okay, really. Who needs a baby with a guy like Walter anyway?"


    Walter stood frozen, Roslyn''s words cutting deep. The bodyguards lingered by the door, exchanging looks, waiting for Walter to make his move.


    Walter''s role in the family drama was no secret, and at this moment, he was in a heated spat with Evangeline.


    However, they knew how it was with couples-yesterday''s fight was often today''s old news. Still, if those two had made up, the bodyguards who had crossed Walter would have been in a real bind, caught between


    ark and a hard ce.


    Roslyn, noticing the bodyguards dragging their feet, raised her voice. "Hello? Did any of you catch that?"


    The bodyguards, swallowing hard,


    stepped forward to confront Walter. "Mr. Walter Gordon, sir, we''re inca


    tough spot here. Please, let''s not make this any harder."


    They were not exactly hanging on Roslyn''s every word. The thing was, the Fosters were all about Evangeline''s health right then.


    If Walter stuck around, riling up


    R silent. The big shoes in


    Evangeline, it would not matter if t


    the Foster family would have the bodyguards'' heads!


    Walter, lips tight, was ready to storm out, but then-


    "Hold up!"


    Celina, who had been quiet as a mouse, suddenly dropped to the floor, gathering up the papers that were everywhere.


    At first, she just gave the papers a casual look, but something caught her eye-numbers, data that seemed to leap off the page. Walter, mid-step, paused and put his foot back down.


    Celina''s interruption turned everyone''s heads.


    The bodyguards, stuck in the middle, exhaled in relief and beat a hasty retreat from the room.


    Celina picked up one report, studied the numbers, then moved on to the next. Before long, she had gone through everyst one.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    Her face grew whiter with each report she picked up, and her eyes filled with an ever-deepening sadness.


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!