Chapter 293

Nathaniel wasn't someone the police could afford to cross. Meanwhile, Samuel made it clear they couldn't let Evelyn off easily. Caught between two powerful men, the officers hesitated, unsure how to proceed.

"Is there really not enough evidence?" Samuel's sharp voice cut through the tension as he stepped out of the elevator.

"Samuel!" Gabrielle's face brightened instantly at the sight of him.

He walked toward them with the effortless confidence only men like Nathaniel and him possessed.

Amelia's expression shifted slightly, relief flickering in her eyes, but she stayed rooted beside Nathaniel. She wasn't about to leave his side.

Benjamin, meanwhile, was torn between awe and panic. He considered bolting but knew that would only make things worse.

"Samuel, perfect timing! The officers said they need circumstantial evidence linking Evelyn to the perpetrator. But where would we even find that?"

Samuel smirked. "You're looking at it."

Gabrielle blinked. "You... have proof? You saw something?"

"I am the proof," Samuel stated coolly. "I happened to witness Evelyn meeting the suspect two nights ago."

He stepped forward, nodding politely at the officers before locking eyes with Nathaniel. "Nathaniel, apologies. I wouldn't interfere if this didn't involve my sister's safety."

His tone was diplomatic, but the challenge in his gaze was unmistakable.

Nathaniel's expression darkened. "So the great Samuel Rivers has time to play false witness now?"

Samuel's smile didn't waver. "Underestimating me, Nathaniel? I don't lie under oath. And I don't forgive those who harm my family—even if they're your wife."

The air between them crackled with hostility. Their families' long-standing feud simmered beneath the surface.

Amelia, sensing the impending explosion, quickly intervened. She wrapped her arms around Samuel. "Samuel, let's just drop this. Evelyn is Nathaniel's wife, and I—"

Samuel stroked her hair affectionately. "Amelia, weakness invites cruelty. If we don't end this now, there will be a next time. As your brother, I won't let anyone hurt you and walk away unscathed."

Though they were only half-siblings, Samuel adored Amelia. Having lost his younger sister years ago, he poured all his protectiveness into her.

Nathaniel watched him coldly. "So you're determined to lock up anyone under suspicion—including my innocent wife?"

"Only because it's your wife did I bother gathering proof," Samuel countered smoothly. "Interrogate her yourself. You'll see whether she's been framed... or if you never really knew her at all."

His confidence was unshakable. Turning to the officers, he asked, "As a witness, I have the right to confront the suspect, correct?"

The officer, momentarily dazed, snapped to attention. "Y-Yes. Of course."