Chapter 1986

No.1

"Your home is mine," Alexander stated matter-of-factly.

Before she could retort, a car pulled up.

"Get in." He ushered her inside without room for refusal.

———

Madeline Kingsley left the hospital in high spirits.

Learning of Evelyn's pregnancy had shaved ten years off her age. She insisted on visiting her granddaughter-in-law, only to find the room empty.

"Those newlyweds," the old woman chuckled, returning home with joy bubbling in her chest.

No.2

In her social group chat, someone shared photos of their grandson.

[Has my sweet boy gained weight?]

The others showered praise.

Madeline offered polite compliments while privately dismissing them. Just wait until my great-grandchild arrives—then you'll see real beauty.

[Madeline, when will Alexander give you a bouncing baby boy?]

The question stung. She had both a daughter-in-law and grandchild—yet couldn't boast.

An old friend called to console her.

No.3

"That Li woman went too far!"

"It's fine. She doesn't know about Evelyn," Madeline forced magnanimity.

Mid-conversation, she accidentally revealed Evelyn's pregnancy.

Silence.

"You just found out? The accident happened weeks ago." Her friend's tone turned pointed. "Could the whole family have known except you?"

Madeline's heart sank.

"Impossible," she deflected, though doubt crept in.

No.4

Seizing the moment, her friend mentioned Isabella Winslow. "Her baby bump is showing now. The child's perfectly healthy."

Madeline stayed quiet.

"Would you like to see her prenatal reports?" The coaxing continued.

After hesitation: "...Show me."

———

The next day, the doctor arrived to administer Alexander's IV.

Evelyn checked her watch. "I'm returning to the office this afternoon."

No.5

"Busier than me?" He smirked.

Horizon Media's video division was in chaos. The Roman Young scandal had the "Lee faction" scrambling for information from Evelyn.

"I'll pick you up." Alexander brushed a kiss against her ear before leaving.

Her earlobe burned, but she had no time to retaliate.

———

Chaos reigned at Horizon Video.

"Evelyn, help me!" Wendy West clung desperately. "I bullied Roman with Xavier before, but I've changed!"

No.6

Evelyn ignored her.

"Please talk to Roman—he's so kind—"

"HR handles staffing." Her refusal was ice-cold.

Seeing pleas fail, Wendy's eyes flashed venom.

As Evelyn turned away, Wendy lunged.

"What are you doing?" A sharp voice rang out.

Evelyn sidestepped against the wall. Wendy crashed to the floor.

No.7

"Evelyn!" she wailed. "You won't help me, but must you push me?"

A crowd gathered.

Evelyn stared down coldly. "Who taught you that trick?"

Wendy paled.

Grabbing her collar, Evelyn hissed, "What did Isabella promise you?"

Wendy West's face drained of color, turning as pale as parchment.