Chapter 145

Bianca's words hung in the silence.

The private room became deathly still.

Her fingers dug into her skirt, nails nearly piercing her palms.

Beatrice's constant humiliation was like a dull blade, carving wounds into her heart day after day.

But what could she do?

That secret loomed over her like a sword, ready to strike at any moment.

"Bianca..." Evelyn hesitated, her voice catching.

She watched the trembling girl before her, throat tight.

Isabella slammed her hands on the table. "You're just going to take this? The Quincys can't destroy you!"

Bianca gave a bitter smile.

This spoiled heiress would never understand her position.

"I have the recording," Evelyn said before leaving.

When the door closed, Bianca finally lifted her head.

The mirror reflected her red-rimmed eyes—like a stray cat drenched in rain.

"What took so long?" Julian approached with concern.

Evelyn shook her head and downed her drink in one gulp.

Ethan watched her furrowed brow before turning away.

"Control your sister," he growled, grabbing Xander by the collar.

Xander blinked drunkenly. "Did Bianca cause trouble again?"

"I meant Beatrice," Ethan said coldly. "Or have you disowned her too?"

"She was never my sister!" Xander suddenly roared, shattering his glass.

He staggered toward the exit, muttering, "Not family... never was..."

The hallway lights stretched his shadow long and unsteady, swaying as if he might collapse at any moment.