Chapter 401

Evelyn let out a soft laugh. "Not at all. If I leave and you return to Nathaniel, aren't you worried he'll lose interest in you too once he grows tired of playing games?"

Amelia's expression shifted to one of arrogant superiority mixed with pity. "That's precisely where we differ, Evelyn."

Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Do enlighten me."

"My family stands equal to the Graysons in status. My parents adore me—they'd move heaven and earth to protect me. My brothers would tear apart anyone who dares cross me." Amelia tilted her chin higher. "You don't have that kind of safety net, do you?"

The amusement vanished from Evelyn's face as realization struck. "It was you. You're the one who told the Whitmores about my marriage to Nathaniel."

Amelia didn't deny it. "Guilty as charged."

Evelyn's voice remained steady. "Did you honestly think sending my estranged family after me would make me abandon Nathaniel?"

The sweet facade Amelia usually wore shattered completely, revealing the cold aristocrat beneath.

"Of course not. I simply wanted you to understand your place. You're a nobody who married above your station. Eventually, everyone will see you for the gold-digger you are."

She smoothed her designer blouse. "I, however, have nothing to fear. The Graysons wouldn't dare mistreat someone of my standing. Even if things with Nathaniel end badly, my family will ensure I land on my feet."

Evelyn's lips curved into a humorless smile. "So your entire confidence stems from hiding behind your family's skirts?"

"Isn't that obvious?" Amelia scoffed.

Evelyn crossed her arms. "I'll admit I lack such...privileges. But I don't need them. I've never relied on anyone's protection. The only true security is being able to stand on your own."

She took a step closer. "I'm with Nathaniel because I choose to be—not for his name or wealth. If either of us loses interest, we'll walk away as equals."

Her gaze turned icy. "Save your schemes, Amelia. Keep playing these games and that perfect princess act of yours will crumble. Then who'll pamper you?"

Turning on her heel, Evelyn headed toward the barbecue pit.

"Wait!" Amelia grabbed her arm. "There's something you need to see."

With dramatic flair, she lifted her blouse to reveal a pale scar across her abdomen.

Evelyn frowned. "Appendectomy?"

Amelia's eyes flashed with fury. "It's a cesarean scar."

Evelyn froze, staring at the woman who couldn't be older than herself. "You have a child?"

Amelia's smile turned triumphant. "Nathaniel's child."

"What?"