Chapter 75

The phone call cut through the tense silence like a blade.

A stern voice spoke from the other end. "Hello, this is Eastbridge Police Station. Is this Evelyn Whitmore's residence?"

Theodore glanced up, seeking direction from Nathaniel. Only when Nathaniel gave a slight nod did he respond. "What seems to be the issue?"

The officer's tone was firm. "If you're a family member, we need you to come to the station immediately. Your assistance is required for verification."

The line went dead.

Margaret sank onto the couch, her face pale.

Abigail's panic flared. "Did you hear that, Grandma? The police called! It has to be Evelyn! How could she do something like this after everything you've done for her?"

Margaret clutched her chest, heartbroken.

Nathaniel stood, grabbing his jacket from the sofa. His voice was sharp as he addressed Abigail. "Stay here with Grandma. Don’t leave."

Abigail rushed to block his path. "Nathaniel! Stop defending that disgrace! She’s not worth it! If you keep getting involved, she’ll ruin our family’s reputation!"

Nathaniel’s frown deepened. "Enough. Move."

She refused to back down. "She doesn’t deserve your help!"

Then—

A lazy, sleep-heavy voice drifted down the stairs.

"Oh, you're home early. Grandma, I'm starving. Isn’t it dinner time yet?"

Evelyn stood at the top of the staircase, rubbing her eyes as if she’d just woken from a nap.

Silence.

Margaret gasped. "Evelyn? You're here?"

Evelyn blinked. "Yeah?"

Abigail’s face twisted. "You—how are you here? Weren’t you—?"

Evelyn yawned. "Why wouldn’t I be here? Where else would I be?"

Abigail’s mind raced. Edward had confirmed the job was done. So why was Evelyn standing in front of them, unharmed?

Her lips curled in accusation. "Did you run from the police? First, you humiliate yourself, and now you’re dragging us into your mess?"

Evelyn tilted her head. "Police? What are you talking about?"

Abigail scoffed. "Stop pretending! The scandal is everywhere online! The police just called for you! Admit it!"

Evelyn’s brows lifted slightly. "A scandal?" She walked to the phone calmly. "I have no idea what you mean. Let me call them back and ask."

She pressed redial.

"Hello? This is Evelyn Whitmore. May I ask why you’re looking for me?"