Chapter 19

Evelyn noticed Nathan’s intense gaze fixed on Serena and felt a sharp pang of jealousy. Why was he so focused on her? She had assumed Nathan barely knew the woman.

Just as Evelyn was about to divert his attention, she saw Serena excusing herself toward the restroom. Without hesitation, Evelyn stood and followed.

Serena stepped onto the balcony adjacent to the restroom, answering her phone with a quiet, "Hello?"

It was Leonard on the line.

"Evelyn, can you come back to the estate?" His voice was firm but weary.

Surprise flickered through her. "You’ve already been discharged?" She had visited him at the hospital earlier that day—his recovery seemed too swift.

"Yes. The hospital was suffocating," Leonard replied curtly.

"I’ll be there soon," Evelyn said quickly before ending the call.

As she turned to leave, she froze.

Serena stood in the doorway, blocking her path.

Their interactions had been scarce over the years. Leonard had always despised Serena, and after Nathan stopped bringing her around, their paths rarely crossed.

Yet, one memory burned vividly in Evelyn’s mind—three years ago, at the Dream Club. She had stood in the pouring rain, clutching a cake Nathan had claimed he wanted. Only later did she learn the truth: it had been for Serena.

The cake had ended up in the trash.

That night, Evelyn realized her marriage was nothing more than a transaction—Nathan’s sacrifice for Serena.

Even now, facing her again, old wounds throbbed. Evelyn inhaled sharply, averting her gaze as she moved to step past her.

But Serena’s voice cut through the silence.

"Ms. Hartley."

Evelyn stopped.

Serena’s lips curved into a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. "We should talk."