Chapter 500: Chapter 500

440 words

<html><head></head><body>Evelyn's brows furrowed. "What exactly are you insinuating?" Penelope smirked. "If you're so desperate to remain Mrs. Whitmore, fine. I'll back you up—but only under one condition." Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Which is?" Penelope's eyes gleamed with greed. "Simple. Tell Nathaniel to unblock my credit cards. And you’ll give me one of yours—with an unlimited limit." The sheer audacity left Evelyn momentarily speechless. "Who in their right mind would dare make such a demand? I’m genuinely curious." Penelope shrugged. "Being part of this family isn’t easy. I could’ve told Victoria about your pregnancy and your real parents, but I kept quiet—for you." Evelyn crossed her arms. "I thought you and Victoria were close. What changed?" "Because she’s cheap!" Penelope scoffed. "She wants the Whitmore name without paying what she owes!" Ah. So that was the reason for Penelope’s sudden betrayal. Evelyn pretended to consider it. "Give me some time to think it over. I’ll get back to you."  Penelope grinned, triumphant. "Think carefully. With me on your side, you’re practically guaranteed to stay Mrs. Whitmore." She sauntered off, practically skipping. Evelyn’s lips curled in derision. As if she’d ever agree. It seemed Penelope hadn’t caught wind of the divorce. Not that it mattered. Once the ceremony was over and her exams were done, Evelyn would leave Bern City for good. By then, no one would believe a word Penelope said. Even if they did, Evelyn would be long gone—untouchable.  Her hand drifted to her stomach before she turned her attention to the remaining waiting rooms. Just as she reached the last one, her phone buzzed. Olivia’s voice chirped through. "Evelyn! Why aren’t you wearing the dress I picked for you today?" "I had errands. It wasn’t practical." "That’s unacceptable. I’m bringing it over—with the stylist. Today’s important. You need to look flawless!" Evelyn sighed. "Fine." No point arguing. Olivia would show up regardless.  Hanging up, she turned—and froze. At the end of the hallway stood a familiar figure. Evelyn approached cautiously. "Danielle…?" The woman lurking in the shadows stepped forward, guilt written across her face. "Evelyn." They hadn’t spoken since Danielle’s betrayal. The sting had faded with time, but the memory lingered. Evelyn had accepted it—some people couldn’t resist Victoria’s bribes.  Danielle clutched her hands. "Evelyn, I was wrong. Please, help me. Talk to the administration. Stop them from expelling me!" Evelyn hesitated. "I don’t have that kind of influence." Danielle’s expression darkened. "So you’re really going to ruin me?" Evelyn met her gaze evenly. "You made your choices, Danielle. Own them." She walked away without another word. Behind her, Danielle’s voice turned icy. "Don’t say I didn’t warn you."  </body></html>