Chapter 498

The ink dried on the divorce papers as Nathaniel signed without hesitation.

What was the point of prolonging this charade? Their marriage had been over long before today.

Julian stepped out of his sleek black sedan, his face lighting up when he saw her. Evelyn sprinted toward him, her sundress fluttering in the breeze. "Julian!"

"Finally free," he murmured, pulling her into a brief embrace. "No complications?"

"None." She held up the stamped certificate like a trophy. "This should make things easier for Alexander, right?"

"Absolutely. Thank God that bastard didn't try anything." Julian ruffled her hair affectionately. "Let's go home—no, wait. We're celebrating tonight. I know just the place."

From across the parking lot, Nathaniel watched them through narrowed eyes. The way she'd run to Julian—so eager, so relieved—made his chest tighten.

That radiant smile should have been his.

Now it never would be.

He yanked at his tie, suddenly suffocated by the crisp collar. His phone was in his hand before he realized it. "Gregory. Drinks. Now."

The divorce papers on his passenger seat mocked him.

Meanwhile, Evelyn's laughter echoed through an intimate bistro as their group toasted with sparkling cider.

Margaret frowned at the sudden celebration. "What's the occasion?"

Julian's grin turned wolfish. "Freedom. Plus, we won't be in this city much longer. Might as well enjoy it while we can."

"Damn right we're celebrating." Andrew clinked his glass against Evelyn's. "To new beginnings."

The mood lifted further when Alexander and Olivia arrived, completing their makeshift family dinner.

Later, in the quiet of her bedroom, Evelyn traced circles over her still-flat abdomen. "Soon, my loves," she whispered. "Soon you'll meet your real family."

Days later, cap and gown in hand, Evelyn fidgeted with her tassel.

Elizabeth had warned her about the "Outstanding Graduate" honor. Walking across that stage would mean facing hundreds of eyes—including certain invited entrepreneurs.

The auditorium buzzed with last-minute preparations. Her fingertips brushed a velvet drape she'd personally selected months ago for a music showcase. Now repurposed for graduation, her design choices still held the space together.

Satisfied with the setup, she headed backstage—only to collide with Victoria and Penelope near the VIP lounge.

That dress. Evelyn's breath hitched. She knew that designer label.

Victoria's lip curled. "See something you like?" She fluffed the couture skirts. "Not that you could ever afford it."