Chapter 838

Lily Waters' innocent words dropped like a stone into still water, sending ripples through Evelyn Carter and Alexander Hamilton's hearts. Was Bianca Langley keeping her distance because she feared her hatred for Vincent Croix might spill over onto her innocent child?

But who was that mysterious man?

Evelyn exchanged a glance with Alexander. Neither believed Bianca would start a new relationship so soon after Adrian Valentine's death—though Adrian would surely have blessed her happiness from beyond.

"That uncle was taller than Miss Langley," Lily recalled, scrunching her forehead. "Dressed as formally as Mr. Hamilton." Her eyes suddenly brightened. "Wait! I've seen him on TV!"

With practiced fingers, the girl pulled up a news clip on her phone. The screen illuminated, stealing both adults' breath simultaneously.

"Could it be...a mistake?" Evelyn's voice trembled—her second time today doubting Lily's memory.

Pursing her lips, Lily recounted every detail. She and Lotus often visited the city on weekends. That day at Wetland Park—dubbed "Lovers' Sanctuary"—she'd instantly recognized Bianca by that unforgettable red dress.

"The same one Miss Langley wore when we first met," the girl affirmed.

Evelyn's chest tightened. Bianca hadn't touched that dress since Adrian's passing. She hastily noted the park's address. "Sweetheart, I do trust you—"

Lily just giggled and skipped away.

Under cover of darkness, the couple entrusted Baby Chloe to Margaret Hamilton and Auntie Wu.

"We have some research," Evelyn explained.

Margaret's knowing smile prompted Alexander to hastily excuse himself, citing the baby's feeding schedule.

In their bedroom, a tablet played Vincent's televised interview. The man on screen—immaculate suit, gold-rimmed glasses radiating warmth—bore no resemblance to the venomous creature from their memories.

"Monster in a three-piece suit," Evelyn spat.

Alexander frowned as Vincent smoothly declared, "My journey from a backwater town proves all critics are merely jealous."

The host pressed: "Your relationship with the Langley family—"

"I'll forever be grateful for their mentorship." Vincent's smile didn't reach his arctic eyes. "Without them, I wouldn't exist."

Evelyn's fists clenched. These polished lies were salt rubbed into the Langleys' wounds.

"He's making his move," Alexander realized abruptly.

Onscreen, Vincent gazed into the camera with theatrical tenderness: "My door always stands open if Bianca chooses to return."

Evelyn shot upright. "He knows!"

Outside, lightning split the night sky. The storm had arrived.