Chapter 121

Victoria's sudden approach startled Evelyn, sending a wave of discomfort through her.

What game was Victoria playing now?

Evelyn pulled her arm away with an icy glare, creating distance between them.

"Even if you and Nathaniel go your separate ways, there's no reason we can't be civil," Victoria countered.

A mocking smile touched Evelyn's lips. "Ms. Sinclair, have you ever heard of someone befriending the other woman?"

At the term, Victoria's expression darkened instantly.

But under Nathaniel and Eleanor's watchful gazes, she quickly masked her irritation with feigned hurt. "Evelyn, why the hostility? I genuinely want us all to get along."

Beatrice immediately jumped to Victoria's defense, shooting Evelyn a disapproving look.

"Evelyn, have you no shame? Look at how gracious Victoria is being. Who are you to label her like that?" Beatrice scolded.

"If you hadn't interfered, Victoria might already be my daughter-in-law by now. Three years have passed—they could've had children!" she added bitterly.

Evelyn's eyes glinted with sarcasm. "Well then, congratulations on your upcoming union. May you start a family soon. Happy now?"

Beatrice's temper flared as Evelyn turned to leave.

"Wait, Evelyn! What's with this attitude? My son is about to propose to Victoria. If you dare cause any trouble, you'll regret it," Beatrice warned sharply.

Nathaniel stepped in. "Enough."

Hearing his firm tone, Beatrice bit back her words. "Nathaniel, Evelyn just came to bring food for Eleanor. Keep an eye on her. We can't have any slip-ups in front of her."

A shadow crossed Nathaniel's face. "There won't be any," he stated firmly.

Before Beatrice could press further, Victoria gently stopped her. "Mrs. Whitmore, I trust Nathaniel's judgment. We're all here for Eleanor's sake."

"Victoria is far more reasonable," Beatrice remarked. "Nathaniel, perhaps you could accompany her to look at wedding dresses?"

A hopeful gleam lit Victoria's eyes as she waited for Nathaniel's response. But his expression remained unreadable. "I'm busy. Let's not forget—this is just an act."

Nathaniel turned to Victoria. "When will Julian arrive?"

Evelyn answered tightly, "Soon."

Beatrice shared that the surgery was scheduled for the end of the month. Victoria exhaled in relief. "That's fine. Julian will be available by then."

The extended timeline gave Victoria more room to persuade Julian.

"Nathaniel, I consulted an astrologer. There's a favorable date next week. How about making your engagement to Victoria official then?" Beatrice suggested.

Nathaniel's face betrayed no emotion. "Whatever."

With that, he walked out, leaving Victoria with a flicker of unease.

Sensing her worry, Beatrice reassured her, "Don't fret. Once Evelyn is out of the picture, this engagement won't stay pretend for long."

"And when that happens, make sure all your brothers attend the ceremony," she added.

Victoria forced confidence into her voice. "If I'm getting engaged, they'll be there without question."

With this, she had secured half her goal.

If Julian agreed to the surgery, her path to marrying Nathaniel would be clear.

As Evelyn left the hospital, a heavy weight settled in her chest.

Despite the summer heat, an unshakable chill clung to her.

With the weekend approaching, Evelyn spent most of her time in her studio. The constant blast of cold air left her feeling like she was coming down with something.