Chapter 279

Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows into the Sullivan family's living room. The six Langley brothers formed a protective circle around Evelyn, standing like sentinels.

"Ethan Sullivan has someone else in his heart. Why should our Evelyn suffer this humiliation?" Vincent Langley spoke coldly, his expression stern.

"Exactly!" Sebastian Langley slammed his hand on the table as he stood. "If he wants to marry our sister, he must love her wholeheartedly!"

"The jewel of our family will never marry a man whose heart belongs to another." Julian Langley's voice held finality.

Ethan's knuckles turned white. His Adam's apple bobbed, but no words came out.

How could he explain? Should he just admit the girl who haunted his dreams was Evelyn herself?

Victoria Langley elegantly lifted her teacup and took a sip. "Vincent, we all admire Ethan's loyalty."

"To keep searching for over a decade because of a childhood promise—that kind of devotion is rare."

"So we've decided to grant his wish."

Evelyn's head jerked up, but her mother silenced her with a look.

"Aunt Victoria!" Ethan stood abruptly. "Actually, I—"

"No need." Victoria interrupted gently. "Love can't be forced. Our Evelyn has other options."

She gave Ethan a meaningful glance. "I hope you find that girl soon and understand your own heart."

Ethan froze as if struck by lightning.

Vincent Sullivan cleared his throat. "In that case, let's consider the engagement null and void. Evelyn, what do you think?"

His sharp gaze pinned Evelyn in place.

Her fingers tightened around her skirt. "Thank you for your understanding, Uncle Vincent."

Richard Langley rose to leave. "We've overstayed our welcome."

"Our Ethan was at fault." Vincent Sullivan apologized.

Victoria guided her daughter out, her heels clicking sharply against the marble floor.

Silence descended upon the living room.

Vincent Sullivan gazed thoughtfully at the doorway before turning to see his son's thunderous expression.

"Ethan—"

Before he could finish, Ethan stormed upstairs, slamming his bedroom door with enough force to shake the house.

Vincent shook his head and retreated to his own room.

The moment the door closed, he burst into laughter.

His always composed son had finally shown his true colors.