Chapter 138

The brisk winter air stung my cheeks as I arrived at cafe. Determination coursed through my veins like a steady heartbeat. I needed answers, and I knew Scarlett was the one who could provide them.

Scarlett and I had arranged to meet in a quiet, out–of–the–way cafe where we could talk privately. As I waited for her to arrive, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. Scarlett was no stranger to the Hayes family, and her knowledge ran deep.

When Scarlett finally walked through the cafe door, she looked as regal and composed as ever. Her long, auburn hair cascaded down her back, and her emerald–green eyes held a glint of curiosity as she approached our table. We exchanged a polite greeting, but it was clear that tension simmered beneath the

surface.

“Evie,” she began, her voice cool and measured, “I understand you’re rather curious about our family’s affairs.”

I didn’t waste any time getting to the point. “I want to understand why Stella is so determined to get her hands on the estate, Scarlett. There’s more to this than meets the eye, and I want the truth.”

Scarlett’s lips curled into a sardonic smile. “Ah, the truth. That’s a slippery thing, isn’t it? But I suppose you’re entitled to some answers.”

I leaned forward, my voice earnest. “Start with the will. What did it specify about the estate?”

Scarlett’s gaze hardened, and she fixed me with a piercing stare. “The will, my dear Evie, was quite clear. It stated that the estate would go to the firstborn Fitzgerald child who married and had a child of their own.”

I frowned, puzzled by the simplicity of the stipulation. “So, it’s all about inheritance?”

“Yes,” she said flatly. “I am the first born, and I had the child. As you can see, however, there is no husband.”

“Oh,” I said softly. From the direction things were going, it seemed that Stella was on her way to fulfilling parts of those conditions.”

Need Top Metal Stamping? Get a 10% Discount (Start Now)

7

Chapter 138

was a bitter sound that cut through the air. “Of course, it’s never that simple when it comes to the my family. You see, the estate is just the tip

closer, my curiosity piqued.

she regarded me with a calculating gaze. “It’s all up to the Hayes family, Evie. I know what it

come from old money, that Timothy was naturally wealthy. But

saying, Scarlett?” I asked,

In fact, they were far from it. Their family lived a

chill run down my spine as I listened to Scarlett’s words. The image I had held of the Hayes family as old–money aristocrats crumbled before me, replaced by a much

on corruption?”

deal with Sam. Fitzgerald opened the doors to a world of wealth and privilege, but it came at a

rise to power had been built on a foundation of deception and deceit, and now Stella was determined to reap the benefits. That level of tact could work its way

a deep breath, my mind racing with thoughts and questions. “What

control, Evie. Control of the family’s empire and everything that comes with it. She knows that the estate is

2/4

Get a

A

76%

I asked, my voice filled with determination. “If we

voice a low whisper.

Expose the truth?

couldn’t help but wonder how much this had affected Timothy. Had he been aware of the shady dealings that had propelled his family into wealth and power? It was a question that

case against Stella was too important, and I needed

attention to the legal documents that Scarlett handed me then. The case against Stella was complex, and I needed to be prepared for whatever tactics she might employ. If Stella had a history of getting what she wanted by any means necessary, I

drawing my attention. “You know, Evie,” she said, her

intrigued by her cryptic statement. “Stella and

brother, who is also power

have they

mischievous glint. “I’ve noticed that they’ve been spending a lot of

piqued, and I leaned in closer, urging Scarlett to continue. “Do you have any idea what they might

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255