Chapter 173

Evelyn's fingers trembled slightly.

Alexander's figure appeared at the police station entrance, and her breath hitched.

How had he found her?

...

Not only had Alexander come, but he'd brought damning evidence.

"Horizon Media employee Penelope Pope was diagnosed with fetal abnormalities last week," he stated coldly, tossing a file onto the table. "The incense in her bedroom contained the same toxins as the sponge—just in higher concentrations."

As the officer took the documents, Alexander's gaze locked onto Evelyn.

Julian stood protectively behind her.

Alexander's eyes darkened dangerously.

"She scheduled then canceled an abortion. Here's proof she purchased termination pills." His voice was ice. "Release her. Now."

Evelyn pressed her lips together. "Thank you."

Penelope's scheme had crumbled instantly.

But her pulse raced—Alexander's timing was too perfect.

The police had just promised to keep her pregnancy confidential.

"Move." Alexander gripped her wrist and pulled her past stunned onlookers.

Julian remained motionless until they disappeared, then turned to the precinct chief. "Remember our agreement. Absolute discretion."

...

Horizon Media Headquarters

Julian guided Evelyn into an empty conference room.

"This won't stay hidden long." His voice strained. "Have you decided?"

Evelyn kept her eyes downcast.

"More incidents like today will happen." Julian suddenly grasped her shoulders. "Let me protect you both."

He crouched to eye level. "A child needs its father. Give me this chance."

Silence thickened between them.

"I'll arrange overseas relocation immediately." His whisper feathered across her skin. "Just the three of us, away from this chaos."

Evelyn's nails bit into her palms.

She was preparing to leave—but not with Julian.

"I want to raise the child alone." Her voice barely carried. "You deserve better, Julian."

"Better than you?" Red tinged his eyes. "How will you manage alone? I'm coming with you."

His hands shook. "Every second abroad, I thought of you."

"Evelyn." His plea burned into her soul. "Answer me."

Finally, she gave a slight nod. "Give me three days."

Julian's eyes glistened.

He embraced her gently, as if cradling glass.

His breath stirred her hair.

"I'll wait."

...

Horizon Media erupted.

With Penelope's scheme exposed, Evelyn's inbox flooded with support from colleagues.

This place that once broke her now offered warmth—just as she prepared to leave.

But Julian's expectant face haunted her.

Evelyn closed her eyes.

In three days, she'd be gone.

Triad Hyde's escape plan was flawless.

Scarlet's promised funds would cover the baby's needs and Sophie's treatments.

Only her plan to rebuild Autumn Detail would have to wait.

...

After watering her office plant one last time, Evelyn surveyed her workspace.

The elevator doors opened to reveal Madam Ashford's piercing stare.

"A word?" The aristocrat tilted her chin toward a waiting car.

Evelyn entered calmly.

A black card slid across the leather seat. "Five million for your silence."

As Evelyn reached for the door handle, Madam Ashford sneered. "More than enough for that bastard in your womb."

"Never!" Evelyn yanked at the door.

"You have no choice!" Madam Ashford barked. "Drive!"

The car lurched forward.

"You think a brat can steal my son?" Her nails gouged the upholstery. "Dream on!"