Chapter 71

"I have no idea. But she definitely purchased a new property."

Nathaniel scrolled through the furniture catalog on his phone screen.

His jaw tightened as he demanded, "Who gave you this information?"

Even he hadn't been aware of this development.

Beatrice cleared her throat before continuing. "That's not what matters. The house cost six million dollars! There's absolutely no way she could afford that on her salary alone."

"Unless she used the money she supposedly stole from our home. Or perhaps funds obtained through questionable means involving our family."

Nathaniel's brow furrowed instantly. "Mother, Evelyn would never do such things."

"Nathaniel, why are you constantly defending her recently? This isn't like you at all."

Slamming his phone onto the table, Nathaniel responded irritably, "I told you I'll handle this situation myself. Please don't interfere."

"I'm only looking out for your best interests. Ms. Sinclair has been so proactive, even visiting personally. Are you really this oblivious? You two are much better matched. Unless... have you actually fallen for Evelyn? Is that why you're dragging your feet about the divorce?"

Massaging his temples, Nathaniel countered, "Enough. Grandmother Eleanor's health has been unstable lately. I'm considering waiting until after her surgery to proceed with the divorce."

Beatrice's expression darkened at the mention of Eleanor.

"Fine. I'm just reminding you not to be fooled by Evelyn's sudden withdrawal. The truth is she's already moved on - even bought a marital home."

Nathaniel remained silent.

After Beatrice departed, he finally checked his phone.

There was a recent message from Evelyn: "Mr. Whitmore, which option do you prefer? Please advise so I can proceed with the order immediately."

Staring at the screen, realization dawned - this explained her abrupt attitude shift during yesterday's call.

After considerable hesitation, he finally replied: "Your choice."

Powering off his device, Nathaniel loosened his tie, wondering if he'd been devoting too much attention to Evelyn lately.

At the furniture warehouse, Evelyn was nearly asleep when Nathaniel's reply finally came through.

Just two words. Typical of his usual detached demeanor.

Finishing her iced tea, she turned to the sales associate beside her.

"I'll place the order now. Please arrange immediate delivery for available stock."

"Ms. Carter, would you like to include a crib? We offer complimentary gifts with large purchases. Most couples setting up their marital home appreciate having one prepared."

A crib?

Evelyn walked over to inspect the display. The miniature beds looked impossibly delicate and charming.

Running her fingers along the crib's edge, she thought of the child she would soon bring into the world. Her mood lifted instantly.

Though she didn't need it yet.

Patting the display model, she decided, "I'll take this one."

She'd send all her blessings for Nathaniel and Victoria to conceive quickly.

Evelyn followed the delivery truck to Nathaniel's marital home. Decorating the living area took no time at all - after three years of meticulous home design for him, she knew his preferences intimately.

Finally, she stood before the living room's focal wall, directing workers to install a display frame for their oversized wedding portrait.

Abigail approached hesitantly. "Mrs. Whitmore, what about the bedroom?"

"Just basic cleaning and a new mattress."

"Mrs. Whitmore, I'm not very familiar with the master suite. I'd hate to overlook anything important. Perhaps you should inspect it personally?"

After surveying the living area, Evelyn finally ascended to the master bedroom.