Chapter 18

Evelyn's nails dug deep into her palms as a cold smile curved her lips. "Aren't you worried Isabella will find out about our deal?"

Ethan's gaze turned icy, the air around him dropping to a chilling intensity. "That's none of your concern."

She took half a step back, spine rigid. "I refuse."

A mocking smirk tugged at his lips. "Seems divorce isn't that important to you after all."

"I'll make you sign willingly," she countered, a sharp glint flashing in her eyes. "I don't need underhanded tactics."

He slammed the documents onto the desk. "Get out!"

Only when the door shut heavily behind her did the weight of his stare finally vanish. Evelyn exhaled slowly, her fingertips still trembling faintly.

The Jackson residence blazed with light as servants bustled about preparing for the birthday banquet. Charles Jackson glanced at the entrance for the eighth time. "Is Ethan coming or not?"

"Don't worry, Dad," William soothed, pouring tea. "Isabella went to fetch him personally. It'll be fine."

Just then, Isabella entered arm-in-arm with Lily White. She wore a champagne-colored gown, a diamond hairpin glinting in her upswept curls.

"Happy birthday, Grandpa!" She kissed his cheek affectionately. "Ethan got held up at the office, but he'll be here soon."

As Charles frowned, Lily presented an ornate box. "Grandfather Jackson, my father asked me to deliver this gift."

Inside lay a pair of pristine jade paperweights. The old man's expression brightened instantly. "How thoughtful of you, my dear."

Seizing the distraction, Isabella pulled her friend onto the terrace.

"Are you sure you want to show me this now?" Her voice tightened as she stared at the phone screen.

The video showed Ethan pinning Evelyn against a wall, their bodies dangerously close. The timestamp read last Wednesday—the very night he'd claimed to be working late.

Lily hesitated. "There's actually something else..."

A commotion erupted from the ballroom. Isabella turned—and froze.

There, standing impeccably suited in the doorway with Evelyn in emerald velvet on his arm, was Ethan.