Chapter 128

Evelyn had first met him through Nathan, and though Alexander had never joined the others in mocking Evelyn, they hadn't been particularly close back then.

Everything changed when Evelyn moved to Chixdon, where Alexander had been sent by his father to oversee their family business.

It was there, through a series of unexpected meetings, that their friendship deepened.

Hearing Alexander’s words, Evelyn shrugged, her voice steady. "Not yet. We were supposed to go to the courthouse that day, but Leonard was hospitalized, so the paperwork couldn’t be finalized."

Alexander arched a brow, his expression thoughtful. "Leonard really doesn’t want you and Nathan to divorce, does he?"

Evelyn didn’t hesitate. "I’ve already made my stance clear. After his birthday, I’m proceeding with the divorce no matter what."

Alexander studied her for a long moment, a flicker of concern in his gaze. "Are you really okay with this?"

Evelyn’s lips curved into a faint, almost wry smile. "Why wouldn’t I be? Nathan and I can barely tolerate each other. It’s better for everyone if we just end things. Then he can be with Serena without any obstacles."

Despite her composed tone, a shadow of something unreadable passed through her eyes—just for a second—before she schooled her expression back into indifference.

Alexander, still watching her closely, seemed to weigh her words. Was this truly her resolve, or was she just putting on a brave face?

Evelyn, sensing his scrutiny, rolled her eyes with mild irritation. "Why are you looking at me like that? Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten what I look like."

Alexander chuckled, his gaze drifting momentarily before he spoke, his voice measured. "Leonard would never allow Nathan to end up with Serena. Even if you two divorce, Leonard will make sure Nathan marries someone else—someone from a powerful family. It’ll never be Serena."

Evelyn tilted her head slightly, intrigued. "Why does Leonard hate Serena so much? If it’s about status, that doesn’t make sense. After all, he accepted me—an illegitimate child—without much fuss."

She had asked Dylan the same question before, but he hadn’t known the answer. Now, she wondered if Alexander might have some insight.

Alexander shook his head, his expression contemplative. "That’s still a mystery. When Leonard first found out Nathan was dating Serena, he didn’t seem bothered. He probably thought it was just a passing fling."

He paused, his brow furrowing slightly. "But somewhere along the way, his attitude changed. Suddenly, he was adamant that Nathan break up with her—no negotiation, no explanation. When Nathan demanded a reason, Leonard just said Serena wasn’t the right woman for him. But we all know that excuse doesn’t hold up."

Alexander’s tone darkened. "Nathan refused to back down, and Leonard only grew more stubborn. They reached a standoff. Then, when Nathan announced he wanted to marry Serena, Leonard lost it completely. He even had Serena kidnapped to force Nathan to give up on her."

Evelyn absorbed his words in silence, the weight of the revelation settling heavily in her chest.