Chapter 255

Evelyn Carter couldn't suppress a bitter laugh when she heard Vincent Blackwood's outrageous claims.

The very idea that someone could still try to arrange a marriage through bribery in this day and age struck her as ludicrous.

Did Walter and Beverly Simmons truly believe such archaic tactics would work on her?

Jonathan Reeves suddenly appeared, shoving Vincent away with force. "Back off! One more step and I'm calling the authorities!"

Vincent scrambled up from the pavement, dusting himself off. "I paid her family fifteen thousand dollars! That's my life savings! Evelyn is legally bound to marry me now."

Evelyn's icy glare could have frozen lava. "You're delusional. I severed all ties with those people years ago. Whatever money they took from you is their problem."

Vincent's face twisted in anger. "Blood means nothing! They accepted my bride price, which makes you my woman!"

Jonathan scoffed. "This isn't the Middle Ages. Evelyn never consented to this sham arrangement. Leave now or face the consequences."

"Call whoever you want!" Vincent spat. "If I can't have my bride, I might as well die right here!"

Evelyn's hand shot out, grabbing a nearby fire extinguisher. "Fine by me. Let's settle this right now."

The sudden movement sent Vincent stumbling backward in terror before turning to flee.

As Evelyn set down the extinguisher, Jonathan stared at her with newfound admiration. "That was... impressive."

"I've dealt with his type before," Evelyn replied grimly. "Though I never imagined my so-called parents would sink this low."

"Don't worry," Jonathan assured her. "Legally, you're clean. They're the ones who accepted the money."

"I know. But this could still cause problems for the studio."

Jonathan reached out instinctively, his fingers brushing against Evelyn's hair before she stepped away.

"Evelyn, you don't have to face this alone. We're friends, aren't we? Let me help."

Evelyn cleared her throat, putting more distance between them. "I appreciate it, Jonathan. But I should get back to work."

"Of course." Jonathan sighed inwardly as he watched her retreat. Winning her trust would take time - good thing he had plenty to spare.

At her desk, Evelyn couldn't shake thoughts of Vincent's disturbing appearance. If Walter and Beverly had indeed taken his money, she knew this wouldn't be the last she'd see of him.

As she left work that evening, Vincent materialized from the shadows, grabbing her wrist. "There you are, wife. Time to come home."

Evelyn twisted free with practiced ease. "Touch me again and you'll regret it. Take your grievance to the people who stole from you."

"Your parents took my bride price!" Vincent snarled. "You think you can just walk away? Not happening!"

"Evelyn!"

Jonathan appeared like a guardian angel, positioning himself between them. "I've got you."

Vincent whistled sharply. From nearby bushes emerged four rough-looking men, forming a tight circle around Evelyn and Jonathan.