Chapter 236

"Fine, that works." Victoria's voice was icy as she turned on her heel and walked away.

If Evelyn didn’t show up to her engagement ceremony, Victoria’s triumph would feel hollow.

With all her brothers present, it was the perfect chance to rub Evelyn’s face in their vastly different lives.

After a few steps, Victoria snapped at Gregory, "Find out why Alexander suddenly decided to acquire Optima Construction."

Gregory hesitated before answering. "It’s probably just a coincidence."

"Mr. Montgomery has been planning to expand into Bern City for a while now. Preparations are already underway."

Victoria mulled over the explanation. It made sense.

Yet, unease prickled at her. Something felt off—too convenient.

Gregory added, "Actually, this could benefit us. Since the demolition compensation hasn’t been paid yet, there’s plenty we can manipulate."

A smirk curled Victoria’s lips. "You’re right. Handle it for me."

She was determined to make sure Evelyn never lived comfortably. Victoria wanted her to suffer—destitute and miserable at the bottom of society forever.

Just then, her phone rang. Her face lit up. "Alexander, you’re here? I’ll come greet you."

She hurried to the front gates, where a sleek black luxury car rolled to a stop.

Three men stepped out, and Victoria’s excitement bubbled over. It was rare for all her brothers to be together.

Their presence at her engagement meant they still saw her as family. Otherwise, why bother coming?

Tears welled in her eyes. "Alexander, Sebastian, Julian—thank you for being here."

"Let’s rest in the main hall first. The ceremony will be in the garden out back. We’ll walk there shortly."

Alexander gave a curt nod.

Once seated inside, he motioned to Charles. "Bring out the documents." His gaze locked onto Victoria. "About our earlier discussion—have you reconsidered?"

Victoria’s eyes dropped to the paper in his hand. "Termination of Adoption Agreement."

Her face drained of color. She’d hoped delaying the conversation would make it disappear. After all, Eleanor still needed her, didn’t she?

She never expected Alexander to present the document so bluntly—and with such finality.

Pasting on a pitiful expression, she whispered, "Alexander, today’s my engagement. Must we do this now?"

After the ceremony, she planned to return to Nord City. There, she’d prove how indispensable she was to Eleanor. Maybe then, Alexander would reconsider.

His eyes narrowed. "Victoria, I made myself clear last night. If you’re unhappy with the compensation terms, propose your own."

Julian’s gaze was sharp. "You’re marrying Nathaniel and becoming the lady of the house. Money shouldn’t be an issue."

"Alexander’s been more than generous with you all these years."

Victoria forced a smile. "I’m grateful for his kindness. That’s why I consider myself a Montgomery. But marriage shouldn’t mean being cast aside, right?"

She couldn’t understand this sudden decision.

Her biological sister, Evelyn, had suffered for years—yet Alexander was cutting her off instead.

At the very least, he wanted Victoria out of the family before Evelyn discovered the truth.

Alexander pushed the document toward her. "Sign it."

Victoria scanned the pages. "Alexander, tell me—why now?"