Chapter 387

"Alright, absolutely!" Evelyn responded without hesitation.

She immediately turned to the bewildered maid standing beside her. "Gather Theodore and the rest of the staff immediately." The maid blinked rapidly, nodded, and hurried off to comply. Within minutes, Theodore and the household staff assembled in the grand living room.

"Everyone, meet my sister Cassandra." Evelyn's voice carried solemn authority. "She's the woman Nathaniel originally intended to marry, which makes her the rightful Mrs. Grayson. The couple beside her are her parents—the true in-laws of the Grayson family."

The staff exchanged shocked glances, some wondering if this was some elaborate joke. But Evelyn's grave expression left no room for doubt.

"My duties here are concluded. From now on, you'll serve the new mistress of the house." Evelyn adjusted her sleeves. "I'll be upstairs packing my belongings so the real Mrs. Grayson can take residence."

Cassandra smirked, savoring the moment. Those insolent servants who'd dared question her earlier would regret their impertinence. She imagined Theodore trembling with fear now that he knew her true identity.

The head butler looked utterly perplexed. He followed Evelyn up the staircase. "Madam, what's really happening here?"

Evelyn waved him off without breaking stride. "Your only concern is ensuring their comfort, Theodore. Everything else can wait until Nathaniel returns."

"Yes, Madam," Theodore replied, though worry creased his brow.

Downstairs, Cassandra tapped her foot impatiently. When Evelyn didn't reappear, she moved toward the staircase—only to find Theodore blocking her path. "I must insist you remain downstairs."

Cassandra's face flushed crimson. "You senile fool! Didn't you hear what Evelyn said about who I am?"

Theodore remained unmoved. "Until Mr. Grayson verifies your identity, these are my standing orders."

Cassandra's nails dug into her palms. These servants were treating her with more respect, but this stubborn old man still resisted. She forced a condescending smile. "Very well. But remember this moment when I have full authority here. Now, my parents are hungry—prepare a meal using only the finest ingredients. If I discover any shortcuts..." Her smile turned predatory. "Nathaniel will hear about it."

Theodore's jaw tightened, but he maintained his composure. Every fiber of his being wanted to eject these rude intruders, but Evelyn's instructions were clear. "The kitchen will prepare something suitable," he said through clenched teeth.

By the time Nathaniel returned that evening, the Blackwoods had made themselves thoroughly at home. Gregory lay snoring on the sofa, shoes discarded carelessly. Victoria lounged while watching television and painting her nails. Cassandra sampled expensive desserts only to complain, "Where did you find this so-called pastry chef? This chocolate mousse lacks any sweetness whatsoever. Nathaniel must replace him immediately!"