Unmasking the Heiress by Sisi Yea

Chapter 63

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Evangeline was left fuming, punching the pillow in frustration. "Great timing, as always. It's like fate loves to throw us together at the worst times."

The next morning, Evangeline was up with the dawn, helping Alice whip up a pumpkin pie for Trey. He was not feeling great, but he managed to eat quite a bit, cheered by Evangeline's kindness, and seemed a little brighter for it. Afterward, Evangeline wheeled him out for a strollen the garden.

The last whispers of winter had finally retreated, and the morning sun wrapped the world in a cozy warmth. Tulips danced in the garden's gentle

breeze, their colors a vivid tapestry. Évangeline and Trey were lost in easy conversation, their laughter mingling with the cheerful chatter of their video with Trey. It was one of those perfect, tranquil moments. -However, tranquility shattered as they rounded the garden's rocky outcrop. There, a

few faces soured Evangeline's mood in an instant.

Walter and Julia sat in the gazebo, deep in discussion.

Walter had recently helped Julia's family with a place to stay. Lydia, ever grateful, had brought Julia by at dawn to say thanks. It was also a chance for Julia to get to know Walter better.

"Walt, you wouldn't believe how terrible my sister has been. She didn't just throw us out; she's threatening to make us leave the capital for good," Julia spilled her troubles, her voice tinged with tears.

"She's not capable of that," replied Walter, his tone dismissive.

"I can't believe she'd go this far. I've been bending over backward for her.

an opportunist clinging to James

company, but the real power lay with the enigmatic Ms. Foster, the rightful heir. James was not a threat to Walter, but Ms. Foster, with her sights set on the same hot spring town project he coveted, was a thorn in his side. The Foster

more.

a rarity, and Walter found himself intrigued by the

Cha

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in the garden, and then I'll come keep you company, okay?" Evangeline stepped in front, shielding her grandfather from the sight of Walter and J "Sure, go enjoy the garden. Spring is in full bloom, and it's a sight for sore

two thorns in

sight, Evangeline intended to dod and retreat to her bedroom. However, as fate would have it,

jumping from the frying pan into the fire, Evangeline thought, exasperated.

the garden and spoil the view?" Arial snapped,

"You're such an ingrate. After all we've done for you, you

how long you can keep up with this

of those nuisances, but there they were, thinking they

Criticize me all you want, but leave my mom out of this. And for the record, I'm twenty-three, and you're over forty. I'm bound to have a happier life than you, you old hag!" Evangeline shot back, her words laced with triumph. Their spat did not go unnoticed, Walter and Julia, drawn by the noise, left

circle of foes that had closed in around her. "Bring it on," she

her hands on her hips, she looked every bit like someone ready to start a

you believe my sister? She's even bad-mouthing her mother.

hand, urging him to witness. Evangeline's