Chapter 500

Evelyn clenched her fists, her nails digging deep into her palms.

"That bitch Beatrice deserves more slaps!" she hissed through gritted teeth. "And that old bastard Reginald is worse than an animal!"

Her chest heaved violently, her breathing turning ragged.

Reginald Quincy's actions had exceeded her worst nightmares.

What kind of monster would harm his own flesh and blood?

First using Xander to kidnap Ethan, then subjecting Xander to two decades of psychological torment.

Just hearing Ethan describe that suffocating control made her blood run cold.

Noticing her trembling, Ethan gently took her hand.

"Don't think about it," his deep voice soothed.

He subtly shifted closer, wrapping one strong arm around her shoulders.

Evelyn melted into his warm embrace.

"Next time..." she mumbled against his chest, "this can't happen again."

The medication began taking effect, drowsiness washing over her like a tide.

Her words slurred as she drifted into deep sleep.

Ethan gazed down at her with aching tenderness.

Adjusting their positions for comfort, he gradually closed his eyes.

The night passed in rare tranquility.

Evelyn clung to Ethan like an octopus, sleeping soundly.

He endured her koala grip with quiet amusement, a faint smile playing on his lips.

"Evelyn! Open up!"

Urgent knocking shattered the morning calm.

Julian's voice pierced through the door: "There's news about Ethan!"

Evelyn jolted awake.

Her vision filled with Ethan's striking features up close.

Morning light cast shadows from his thick lashes across his face, highlighting his aristocratic nose and sculpted lips.

She stared, momentarily transfixed.

Only when she registered her limbs tangled around him did reality crash back.

"Hide!" she scrambled to push Ethan away.

Before he could react, she'd shoved him into the walk-in closet.

"Evelyn?" Julian knocked again.

Taking a steadying breath, she smoothed her tousled hair before opening the door.

"Brother..." she feigned composure.

Julian looked frantic. "That fox Reginald finally released them! Ethan and Xander were freed early yesterday morning."

He paused, studying her. "You look terrible. Didn't sleep well?"

Inside the closet, Ethan held his breath.