Chapter 201

Nathan's piercing gaze followed Evelyn's retreating figure, his jaw tightening as shadows danced across his stormy expression.

A heartbeat later, he schooled his features into an impassive mask, slid into his sleek black car, and vanished into the night.

That evening, Evelyn stayed with Grace. While her mother slept peacefully, Evelyn tossed and turned, her mind restless. Sleep didn’t claim her until well past two in the morning.

The next day, after hurriedly preparing for work, Evelyn stepped out, her thoughts already consumed by the day’s demands.

Grace, meanwhile, savored the quiet morning. After freshening up, she settled at the kitchen table, touched by the simple but thoughtful breakfast Evelyn had left for her.

Just as she took her first bite of toast, her phone buzzed—Victor’s name flashing across the screen.

At noon, Grace entered the private dining room of an upscale restaurant, only to freeze mid-step.

Victor sat at the table, flanked by Victoria and her family.

Grace’s smile faltered. Victor had only mentioned lunch with her—not a word about Victoria’s presence. Had she known, she would’ve refused outright.

Hesitating in the doorway, Grace debated turning back when Victor shot Victoria a pointed look. "Go on," he urged, his voice firm.

Victoria’s lips twisted in displeasure, but with visible reluctance, she pushed back her chair and approached Grace. Her stormy expression made Grace instinctively retreat a step.

"Grace, don’t be afraid," Victor interjected quickly.

Victoria stopped just short of Grace, her posture rigid as she bent into a stiff, half-hearted bow. Through gritted teeth, she forced out, "I’m sorry," each syllable dripping with resentment.

Grace’s eyes widened.

Was Victoria apologizing to her?

Before Grace could process the surreal moment, Victoria straightened abruptly, her sharp laugh slicing through the tension. "Well played, Grace," she sneered, venom lacing her words. "You’ve raised quite the daughter."

The words hung between them—more bitter than sincere. Without waiting for a response, Victoria spun on her heel and stalked back to her seat.

Grace blinked, confusion knitting her brows.

"Grace, sit," Victor said, gesturing to the empty chair beside him.

Once seated, Victor leaned in, his voice low. "It was Evelyn. She confronted Victoria yesterday and demanded she apologize to you."

Grace’s breath caught.

So that was why Victoria’s attitude had shifted so drastically.

Evelyn had done this—for her.