Chapter 13 - The Warning
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Three days before the anniversary gala, the atmosphere in the Hale mansion was toxic. Ethan strutted through the halls with the manic energy of a man who believed he was days away from being crowned king.
Evelyn spent her days finalizing the digital traps with Martin, ensuring every original file, timestamp, and server log was securely locked away.
On Thursday afternoon, Ethan cornered Evelyn in the grand hallway. He looked her up and down, his expression tight.
“Wear something subtle on Saturday,” Ethan commanded, adjusting his expensive watch.
Evelyn stopped, turning to face him slowly. “Why is that?”
“The business press will be there. A lot of major investors,” Ethan explained, not quite meeting her eyes. “I don't want people getting the wrong idea. I don't want them thinking you’re part of the management team just because you've been hanging around.”
“Hanging around,” Evelyn repeated flatly.
“Don’t make this dramatic, Evie,” Ethan sighed, rolling his eyes. “You helped Dad with some paperwork while he was sick. That was nice of you. But it doesn't make you an executive. We need a unified front for the Malibu pitch.”
Evelyn took a step closer to her husband. The scent of Vanessa’s perfume still lingered on his collar.
“And what exactly does it make me, Ethan?” she asked, her voice dangerously soft.
Ethan shrugged, completely oblivious to the dynamite he was juggling. “It makes you my wife. That’s enough, isn't it?”
For nine years, that title had meant everything to her. Now, it sounded like a prison sentence.
She held his gaze for a long moment, giving him one final, silent chance to see her. To acknowledge the woman who had saved his life's work. He saw nothing.
“I’ll wear blue,” Evelyn said simply, and walked away.
That night, as she lay in the guest bedroom, her phone buzzed. A text from Ethan, who was allegedly working late at the office.
Vanessa will be with me Saturday at the head table. I’m done hiding her from the inner circle. You need to accept your place. Don't make a scene.
May you like
Evelyn stared at the glowing screen. She didn't cry. She typed three simple words.
I'll be there.
