Chapter 79

Evelyn gave a small nod. "Alright. I promise."

The divorce wasn't really an issue anymore. She'd already signed the papers after all.

After Victoria left the studio, Evelyn immediately tried calling Julian. But the call wouldn't connect.

What was going on?

She'd tried reaching him last night too, with no response. Not even a text back.

And now his phone was completely off.

Evelyn quickly dialed her assistant.

"Find out Julian's schedule. Is he doing another medical mission abroad with Doctors Without Borders?"

She needed him back immediately to perform the surgery. Otherwise, Evelyn knew Victoria would keep using Eleanor's condition as leverage against Nathaniel.

Meanwhile, Evelyn found herself distracted. Victoria's words kept replaying in her mind.

She kicked herself for not recording their conversation. What a missed opportunity to expose Victoria's true nature to Nathaniel.

Now there was no proof. Victoria would never admit to anything without concrete evidence.

Evelyn buried her face in her hands. Victoria's threats were working - she couldn't bear the thought of Eleanor suffering.

But Nathaniel wanted them to keep up appearances as a couple. If she brought up divorce now, he'd definitely misunderstand again.

That scheming Victoria really knew how to back her into a corner.

After agonizing over it, Evelyn finally made her decision.

She texted Nathaniel: "Are you free next Monday?"

Today was Friday. She planned to meet him at the courthouse then.

When no reply came after several minutes, she set her phone aside to focus.

The vibration startled her. She grabbed her phone eagerly - only to see a message from Julian: "Evelyn, I'm in town for business. Dinner tonight?"

Her heart sank. She checked her messages with Nathaniel again - still nothing.

Deciding to leave work early, Evelyn headed to meet Julian.

En route, she got word that Daniel was also coming - he had a photoshoot in the area. They agreed to meet at the same restaurant.

As Evelyn entered the establishment, a voice called out behind her.

"Ms. Carter?"

Turning, she found herself face-to-face with Victoria. And standing right behind her - Nathaniel. Clearly together.

Just her luck.

Evelyn kept her voice even. "What a coincidence."

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed. The last person he expected to see here was his wife. Was she alone or meeting someone?

Victoria immediately pounced. "Ms. Carter, this place has such romantic ambiance - perfect for couples. Are you dining alone?"

Evelyn didn't flinch.

"Of course not."

"Is that so? Why don't you join us then? The more the merrier, right Nate?"

Evelyn frowned. Had Victoria lost her mind?

Dinner together? Nathaniel, with his obsessive cleanliness and preference for solitude, would never agree.

She shot him a glance, certain he'd refuse.

"Sure," he said instead.

Evelyn's breath caught. Why would he agree to this absurd suggestion?

Confusion clouded her eyes. Were they both insane?

How could he possibly entertain this ridiculous idea?

Victoria pressed on, voice dripping with false concern. "It's really no trouble, Ms. Carter. But if you're uncomfortable or prefer other company..."

Evelyn recognized the manipulation but refused to back down.

"I'm fine with it," she said quickly.

She wouldn't give Victoria the satisfaction.

Victoria's smile widened as she looked back at Nathaniel.

"Shall we, Nate?"