Chapter 281

Evelyn's lips curled into a knowing smile. "You can change your appearance or identity, but your past remains unchanged." Her voice carried an icy edge. "No secret stays buried forever. There are matters I choose not to expose—not out of kindness, but because they don't concern me."

She leaned closer, her whisper cutting like glass. "But cross me again, and I'll unravel every deception you've woven."

Victoria's breath hitched. A violent tremor ran through her body as realization struck—Evelyn knew everything. The weight of that knowledge left her paralyzed with dread.

When Nathan finally emerged from Whitmore Gardens, Evelyn and Alexander had already departed. His conversation with Alexander left him reeling, lost in thought until the evening chill reminded him of the passing hours.

Nathan arranged for Victoria's return to Kingsley Medical Center before heading to Cliffside Manor with Oliver. The young secretary's distress was palpable throughout the journey.

Oliver's nervous sweat soaked through his tailored suit. "Mr. Blackwood, I—I deserve punishment for this failure!" His voice cracked with emotion. "Had I known we were dealing with a Whitmore... This is entirely my fault."

Nathan exhaled sharply, eyes closed. "Stop this melodrama. It's merely a business setback."

"But sir, this isn't insignificant—"

"Alexander Whitmore hasn't been active domestically for years," Nathan interrupted. "Even with thorough research, the outcome would remain unchanged. Contact other rose suppliers—the country has several comparable gardens."

"Yes, I'll begin arrangements tomorrow." Oliver wiped his brow. "Mr. Whitmore's generosity toward Ms. Carter is... unusual. Most businessmen would negotiate extensively for such a major project."

The observation struck Nathan like a physical blow. His voice turned gravelly. "Oliver, tell me truthfully—did I treat Evelyn poorly before? Was I truly that... cruel?"

Oliver froze. The question hung between them like a guillotine. Though honest by nature, he recognized the professional minefield before him. His throat tightened with unspoken words.

"Speak freely," Nathan commanded, his gaze piercing. "I require honesty, not flattery."

Oliver swallowed hard. "If... if Ms. Carter viewed your marriage as purely transactional—benefiting financially for three years before leaving—then no, you weren't unjust."

He hesitated before continuing, "But if she genuinely loved you? Enduring your indifference and the Blackwood family's mistreatment without complaint? That changes everything. To a woman who gave her heart completely, financial compensation would feel like... salt in the wound."

Nathan's breath caught. The words landed with devastating impact, stirring emotions he'd long suppressed. Memories surfaced—Evelyn's quiet devotion, her unflagging care despite his coldness.

The realization hit him like a tidal wave. His hands trembled slightly as he whispered, "She loved me."

In that moment, Nathan Blackwood looked utterly shattered.