Isabella Rossi frowned slightly. "I heard your assistant mention that Theodore Vance has already purchased a new ticket and is packing his bags. It appears his decision to leave is final, correct?"

She paused, a realization dawning. "That day at the hospital, he believed I was the one who poisoned him. Now that the truth has emerged, perhaps he finally understands. So, you needn't worry. He will no longer be a disruption in our lives."

Alexander Blackwood's possessiveness remained unchanged.

Unless she offered him proper reassurance, his mind would not be settled.

Yet, something felt off. His brow creased with doubt.

"If he knows you never intended him harm, why would he simply relinquish his claim on you?" he questioned, the words escaping before he could stop them.

Evelyn's reply was measured and calm. "We had a conversation previously. Perhaps he finally listened. He is the heir to the Vance family. His entire life, women have surrounded him. Why would he squander his time clinging to someone like me?"

Alexander was reluctant to admit it, but after numerous encounters with Theodore, he could perceive the man's genuine feelings for Evelyn.

And to Alexander, no other woman in the world could ever compare to her.

The mere thought of Theodore returning, attempting to compete for her affection, ate away at him.

A new strategy began to form in his mind. Revealing his identity as the founder of Aethelgard Industries had never seemed pertinent before. But now? The more he considered it, the more logical it seemed.

If Theodore were aware of the truth, perhaps he would retreat permanently.

Their discussion did not prolong further. Evelyn needed to arrive at work punctually.

As was his custom, Alexander accompanied her to the entrance of Serenity Oaks, watching until she entered the vehicle and drove away. Only then did he turn back inside, a sense of calm finally descending upon him.

At her office, a subordinate presented Evelyn with a portfolio of design drafts.

"These require your final approval," the designer stated. "If everything meets the standard, we can proceed with production." Evelyn gave a slight nod. "Very well. I will review them and provide feedback."

Once alone, she set the portfolio aside, intending to examine the contents later.

But as she straightened the stack, a single sheet slipped into her line of sight.

Pulling it free, she instantly identified it—the wedding gown design Theodore Vance had commissioned from her.

For a long moment, she simply stared at the object in her hand, completely stunned.

She had almost forgotten its existence entirely.

Evelyn hesitated, the memory of Theodore Vance's substantial payment flashing in her mind. Professional duty warred with personal disinterest. After a brief internal debate, she picked up her phone and dialed his number. The line connected after a few rings, but was met with absolute silence. Theodore offered no greeting.

Pressing her lips together, Evelyn decided to speak first. "Theodore, regarding the wedding gown design you commissioned. Do you wish for me to continue?"

Only silence answered her.

She frowned, waiting. Her eyes dropped to the phone screen, checking if the call was still connected.

"Theodore? Are you there?"

Just as she was convinced he wouldn't respond, his voice finally came through. It was low, gravelly, thick with unmistakable fatigue. "What's the current status?"

Evelyn shuffled the draft designs in her hand, her eyes scanning the details quickly. "Only the final details remain. If you still want it, I can complete the final version within two days."

For a moment, all she heard was his ragged, uneven breathing. Then, a sharp, controlled exhale. "Destroy it."

Evelyn went completely still. "What?"