Chapter 20

Victoria Langley's expression froze instantly.

Her fingers trembled slightly as she gently touched Evelyn Laurent's cheek. "Silly girl, what nonsense are you saying?"

She gave Evelyn's forehead a light, affectionate flick. A tender smile warmed Victoria's eyes. "My daughter must have looked magnificent throwing punches. I'll ask Ethan for the video and frame it to admire every day."

That playful flick carried such warmth it made Evelyn's heart tremble.

She pressed her lips together, emotions churning in her eyes.

Seeing her daughter's silence, Victoria felt like needles were piercing her heart.

Vincent Lowell's venomous curses echoed in her ears. The horrifying details from the investigation files flashed before her eyes. Tears blurred her vision instantly.

"Evelyn..."

She pulled Evelyn into a tight embrace, her voice shaking with emotion. "Mommy failed you..."

If only she'd been more careful back then, maybe she wouldn't have lost her precious jewel.

This was the daughter she'd yearned for after six sons!

Since their wedding, she and Richard Langley had dreamed of a little princess. Yet six boys arrived first.

Then came Evelyn.

The day they confirmed it was a girl, Victoria wept with joy. She immediately filled the nursery with princess dresses and jewelry, determined to spoil her daughter rotten.

But fate played a cruel joke.

This belated love arrived seventeen years too late.

Her daughter, who should have lived in luxury, endured seventeen years of hardship.

Just thinking about it made Victoria's chest tighten with pain.

Evelyn stood stiffly, arms hovering awkwardly in the air.

Such intense maternal affection overwhelmed her.

After flexing her fingers uncertainly, she finally whispered, "Mom, it wasn't your fault."

Victoria wiped her tears and linked arms with Evelyn. "Darling, it's your time to shine."

She gazed into Evelyn's eyes with conviction. "I know you dislike attention. But everyone at The Grand Hyatt tonight represents high society in the capital and beyond."

"They must remember you, Evelyn Laurent, as the Langley family's princess!"

"I'll ensure they keep your information confidential."

Victoria gently smoothed Evelyn's stray hairs. "Sweetheart, your father, brothers and I will always stand by you."

"You can...try leaning on us."

Warmth flooded Evelyn's chest as she felt the weight of that unconditional love.

"Mhm."

After a long pause, she gave a quiet response.

Taking her mother's hand, Evelyn offered a small smile. "Let's go."

Tonight's gala belonged to her.