Chapter 224

Though Victoria was cunning, her frail appearance and modest upbringing made Cassandra believe she could overpower her physically if needed.

But Evelyn was a different story.

That woman came from the prestigious Monarch Group and was trained in self-defense. If she reconciled with Nathan, Cassandra would become Evelyn's personal punching bag.

The thought sent chills down Cassandra's spine.

As the saying goes, the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Why not ally with Victoria and let her and Evelyn destroy each other?

Decision made, Cassandra dialed Victoria's number.

"Vicky! Nathan brought Evelyn home, and they were disgustingly affectionate. I think you've officially lost your place in his heart."

Nathan had ordered the staff to clean Eleanor's room while Evelyn comforted the trembling girl.

"Eleanor, I'm here. You're safe now."

"Evie!"

Though twenty, Eleanor's autism made her seem much younger. She clung to Evelyn's sleeve desperately. "Don't go! Stay with me. I missed you so much..."

Evelyn stiffened, guilt twisting her stomach. She'd never told Eleanor her true identity.

Nathan observed them silently before stepping closer.

"Mr. Blackwood."

Evelyn's voice turned glacial before he could speak. "I know you're busy. I know you despise this family. But you watched Eleanor grow up. She idolizes you. If you have even a shred of decency left, don't ignore Cassandra's abuse again!" Her eyes flashed. "Next time I catch her hurting Eleanor, I'll press assault charges."

Nathan's jaw tightened.

He rarely visited Cliffside Manor, consumed by work.

The realization that Cassandra tormented her own sister—that her displays of affection were just performances for Reginald—hit him like a physical blow.

"I swear it won't happen again," he vowed.

"Don't swear to me. I'm not the victim here."

The familiar sting of her words barely registered now.

After settling Eleanor, Evelyn followed Nathan to her old room—the same one she'd occupied during their three-year marriage.

She opened the wardrobe. Every gift she'd painstakingly chosen for him remained perfectly preserved.

Memories flooded her: lonely nights crafting handmade presents, the way he'd dismiss her without a glance. She'd carried their relationship alone.

A bitter smile touched her lips.

Once, she'd loved this man obsessively.

Now, he repulsed her.

"Do you have a box? I need to pack my—"

Nathan's arm shot past her head, slamming the wardrobe shut.

She looked up sharply. His cufflinks glinted dangerously as he caged her against the furniture.

"Nathan?" Her voice wavered.

He leaned down, breath grazing her ear. "Evelyn."

Her name rolled off his tongue like a dark promise, sending electric currents down her spine.

"If you want these things," he murmured, "answer one question." His fingers brushed her jaw. "Why did you marry me?"