Chapter 81

Alexander Roland's heart ached as he took in Evelyn Roland's pale complexion. He gently grasped her hand, his voice firm. "Leave the artwork restoration to me. I've already contacted the top expert team in the country."

Evelyn gave a slight nod, her eyes growing warm with unshed tears.

For the first time, she realized that aside from Isabella Langley, the entire Roland family treated her as one of their own. This unconditional protection left her feeling overwhelmed.

Perhaps... she could try lowering her guard and learning to rely on these people who genuinely cared for her.

The next morning.

In Edward Roland's office, documents were signed in rapid succession. His expression was icy as he issued orders. "Terminate all collaborative projects with the Lowell family immediately. Notify all our partners—anyone who continues dealings with the Lowells will be considered an enemy of the Roland family."

Within half a day, Lowell Group's stock price hit the limit-down three times.

By the tenth canceled partnership call, Vincent Lowell could no longer remain seated. He slammed his phone down, beads of cold sweat forming on his forehead. "What the hell is going on? Why would the Rolands suddenly target us?"

Margaret Hill rushed in, her high heels clicking frantically against the floor. "Vincent, the board is in complete chaos!"

"I know!" He yanked at his tie irritably. "It's the Rolands pulling the strings behind this."

"When did we ever offend the Rolands?" Margaret's face drained of color. "They're the kind of family that can make the entire business world tremble with a single step!"

Vincent froze. He recalled Victoria's smug expression when she returned home yesterday—and the name she'd mentioned. Evelyn Roland.

"Don't tell me..." His voice shook. "That Evelyn has ties to the Roland family?"

The thought sent a chill down his spine. If true, the Lowell family might not survive this blow.

He immediately dialed his assistant. "Find out everything about Evelyn Roland's connection to the Rolands. Now!"

After hanging up, his hands still trembled. Margaret gripped his arm. "You think that little bitch is behind this?"

"I hope not." Vincent's eyes darkened. "Otherwise..."

He left the sentence unfinished, but they both understood the gravity of the situation.

The entire afternoon passed in oppressive silence at the Lowell estate. Every ring of the phone felt like a death knell, stretching their nerves to the breaking point.

When the assistant's call finally came, Vincent almost couldn't bring himself to answer.