Chapter 254

Olivia Valdemar pushed open the Roland family's parlor doors without waiting for the butler's announcement.

"Pardon the intrusion—"

Her words died in her throat.

Her gaze locked onto Evelyn Roland, who was carefully dressing Sebastian Valdemar's wound. Olivia's pupils constricted sharply.

"Evelyn? Why are you—"

The sight stole her breath.

Evelyn wore casual loungewear, her movements practiced and precise as she tended to the injury. This was no temporary medical consultant—this was the demeanor of a woman completely at home.

The air turned to ice.

Sebastian and Evelyn exchanged a glance, mutual resignation passing between them.

"She's the eldest daughter of the Roland family." Sebastian rose to acknowledge Edward and Sophia Roland. "I'm indebted to your hospitality."

"You knew?" Olivia's eyes widened, accusation lacing her tone.

She turned to Evelyn, her expression abruptly brightening.

"No wonder you share the Roland name! I should have realized sooner!"

The weight lifted from her shoulders.

All her worries about the family elders disapproving of Evelyn's background vanished. This was a perfect match—equal in status, destined by fate.

Olivia produced a gilded invitation from her clutch.

"Next Wednesday is Theodore's birthday gala. I came personally to invite you all." Her gaze lingered on Evelyn. "You must attend."

Relief washed over her when Evelyn nodded.

She'd considered excluding Isabella Langley, but Julian Roland had saved Sebastian's life. Courtesy demanded this concession.

The Rolands murmured polite acceptances.

"Time to go," Olivia urged.

But Sebastian's attention remained fixed on Evelyn.

"We have unfinished business," they said in unison.

——

In the visitation room of the detention center, Silas Eisner sat shackled across the table.

Days in custody had hollowed his cheeks and streaked his eyes with crimson. The polished charm had eroded, leaving only naked hatred.

Evelyn adjusted her cuff with deliberate slowness.

"Why?"

The single word made Silas blink.

He burst into laughter, chains clanking.

"Don't play dumb." His sneer flickered toward Sebastian at the door. "Who wouldn't want the Divine Elixir?"

"I know."

Evelyn's fingertips tapped the table.

This had been an elaborate trap from the moment the job posting went live. Silas's meticulous courtship—all to obtain the legendary substance.