Chapter 41

Evelyn Sullivan's gaze was razor-sharp as it pierced through Lily White.

"That dress looks familiar."

Alexander King's expression darkened instantly as he stepped in front of Lily. "Evelyn, cut the sarcasm."

Lily clenched the fabric of the dress, her knuckles turning white.

"This was a birthday gift for Sophia Reynolds." Evelyn spoke each word deliberately. "So why is it on you now?"

The restaurant lights suddenly felt blinding.

Alexander scoffed. "We transferred the money to Sophia. The dress belongs to Lily now."

"Forced sale?" Evelyn laughed coldly. "Did Sophia agree to that?"

Tears welled up in Lily's eyes, her voice trembling. "Miss Sullivan, I didn’t know... I just loved the dress so much..."

"Loved it?" Evelyn took a step closer. "The same way you love stealing other people’s boyfriends?"

Alexander slammed his hands on the table. "Evelyn!"

The sharp clink of a glass being set down froze the air.

"Finished?" Ethan Sullivan lifted his icy gaze to Alexander.

Lily’s heart skipped a beat as she looked at Ethan hopefully.

"Ethan..." Alexander’s tone softened.

"My wife is right." Ethan stood, the cold gleam of his cufflinks catching the light. "You two are disgusting."

All color drained from Lily’s face.

Alexander was stunned. "You’re cutting ties over a dress?"

"Cutting ties?" Ethan smirked. "You overestimate your importance."

He grabbed Evelyn’s wrist. "Return the dress. Now." His eyes flicked to Lily. "Or I’ll remove it for you."

The door slammed shut behind them.

Lily’s tears finally fell. "Alexander, this is all my fault..."

Alexander stared at the closed door, his fists clenched so tight they cracked. "Change out of that dress when we get back."

"Okay." Lily lowered her head, nails digging into her palms.

She’d make sure Sophia never wore that dress again.

Outside, the cold wind hit Evelyn’s face.

She yanked her hand free. "Stay out of my business."

Ethan pulled her back. "Your business?" He leaned in, his voice low. "Mrs. Sullivan, your business is mine."