Chapter 402

Evelyn couldn't believe Anthony Kensington had the nerve to suggest replacing her.

The audacity!

This music show was meant to be Christopher Montgomery's apology gift for her.

And now Anthony wanted to cut her out?

The next morning at university, Evelyn received a call from Adrian Blackwell, Jonathan Reeves' defense attorney.

"Mr. Reeves and Mrs. Dawson are proposing a settlement. What are your thoughts?"

"A settlement?" Evelyn scoffed. "Jonathan has the gall to ask for that? Where's his dignity? Even if I don't press charges, he's still going to jail for financial fraud."

Adrian cleared his throat. "My client hopes for your forgiveness, given your past relationship. If you could lend him the funds to cover his debts, he could avoid prison. He promises repayment upon release."

Evelyn laughed coldly. "Not interested. Any further discussions can go through my lawyer."

She hung up.

Jonathan wasn't worth another second of her time.

Later, Evelyn was summoned to Elizabeth Hartwell's office.

"Evelyn, the university wants to discuss the venue setup—"

"Professor Hartwell," Evelyn interrupted, "I still want to perform. I may not have formal training, but I love music. I understand the piano."

Elizabeth paused, then smiled.

"You're misunderstanding. The university isn't replacing you. However, due to Mr. Kensington's concerns, you'll receive private lessons at the Music School. A dedicated instructor will train you. Are you willing?"

"Absolutely," Evelyn answered without hesitation.

This was an opportunity she wouldn't refuse.

After her lectures, Evelyn headed to the Music School.

It was her first time in a class there. Her peers all carried an air of sophistication.

After the session, her piano instructor, Donovan Prescott, approached.

"You must be Evelyn. Come with me."

He led her to a private room.

"Do you have any experience with the piano?"

"A little," she admitted.

"Then play your favorite piece for me."

Evelyn sat at the grand piano, memories flooding back.

The song she had learned as a child at the orphanage, taught by the director, Walter Simmons.

He had always praised her talent, but there had been sadness in his voice.

She understood why now—she'd never had the chance to pursue it properly.

But things were different now.

Taking a deep breath, Evelyn let her fingers glide across the keys, playing the melody from memory.

The music filled the building, rich and haunting.

Outside, Victoria Sinclair froze mid-step, Anthony Kensington beside her.

They had come to cause trouble, but the university clearly valued Evelyn.

Anthony had no choice but to let her stay—for now.

Victoria frowned. "Could we change the venue? Or postpone?"

That might be their only leverage.

Anthony shook his head. "No. Christopher called last night. He insisted the show happens here."

Victoria clenched her fists.

Christopher Montgomery never backed down.

Fine. Let Evelyn stay.

She'd humiliate herself at the show anyway.

Then—

Victoria's breath caught.

That melody.

Who was playing that piece here?

Could it be... her?