Chapter 211

Yes… Margaret had agreed to Richard’s proposal three years ago—to send Evelyn to prison for rehabilitation after her unforgivable actions.

Even now, recalling that moment sent a chill down Margaret’s spine.

What if Alexander ever found out?

Would he look at Evelyn with the same disgust she had felt back then?

Outside the office, Vanessa stood frozen, her fingers curling into tight fists.

Her nails dug into her palms, leaving crescent-shaped marks that turned ghostly white.

After everything Vanessa had sacrificed for the Hayes family, how could Margaret still treat her like an outsider? Blood meant nothing when loyalty had been proven time and again.

"Ms. Vanessa Hart, are you waiting to go in?" The secretary’s voice cut through the silence, sharp and curious.

The sudden interruption startled those inside. The door swung open, revealing Richard’s surprised expression. "Vanessa? How long have you been standing there?"

"I just came to get your signature on this document." Vanessa stepped forward, her smile flawless, her voice steady.

But beneath the surface, resentment simmered.

Three years ago, Evelyn had been sent away.

And yet, she was still the one who haunted this family.

"Mom, there you are."

Margaret gave a slight nod.

Vanessa quickly spoke up. "I didn't realize you were here. The diamond bracelet is still on my desk—I’ll bring it to you later."

"No need," Margaret replied gently. "Keep it for yourself. You’ve just married Ethan, so you should wear more beautiful jewelry."

Vanessa tilted her head, her voice softening into a playful tone. "But I bought it especially for you."

"You’re my daughter. There’s no need for formalities between us."

Margaret refused to accept it. Her birthday had already passed, making the gift feel unnecessary.

Vanessa was taken aback. A strange tension had formed between them over something as simple as a bracelet.

To Margaret, nothing had changed—she still saw Vanessa the same way. But Vanessa couldn’t shake the inexplicable awkwardness settling between them.

Richard finished reviewing the document and set it down. "Vanessa, the paperwork is fine. But regarding the project with Titan Capital Group from before…"

"They rejected it outright this morning," Vanessa admitted. "They said they won’t be working with us."

Richard's expression darkened instantly. "What do you mean? There are only three competing firms, and Horizon Enterprises ranks second in overall strength! We should absolutely be on their shortlist! Why would Titan Capital Group refuse to work with us?"

Vanessa blinked innocently. "Father, I don’t understand either. Do you think Uncle Alexander removed us because Evelyn said something to him?"

Richard clenched his fists, his voice dripping with frustration. "That ungrateful brat!"

Margaret scoffed. "Have you forgotten Alexander’s warning? How we treat Evelyn directly affects his opinion of Horizon Enterprises. This isn’t just about Evelyn—it’s about Alexander’s influence."

"So what do we do now?"

Margaret’s lips curled into a calculated smile. "If Evelyn is upset, then we need to make amends."

Both Richard and Margaret turned their expectant gazes toward Vanessa.

Richard cleared his throat. "Vanessa, what if you transferred the deed of Hawthorne Estate to Evelyn?"

Vanessa stiffened. That estate had been a gift from Richard—her prized possession.

But refusing her father’s request would only earn his displeasure.

Her fingers tightened around her glass as she forced a smile. "Of course, Father. If that’s what it takes."

Inside, resentment simmered.

Evelyn would pay for this.

Vanessa had a problem with her now, so she couldn’t afford to lose Richard’s favor.

"Dad, as long as Evelyn is happy and stops targeting our company, I don’t mind sacrificing some of my personal interests."

Richard remained silent. After Margaret left, he turned to Vanessa with a troubled expression.

"Vanessa, I’m sorry about this. I’ll compensate you with additional shares."

Vanessa gave a gentle shake of her head. "Dad, money isn’t that important to me. I’m married to Ethan now, so my future is secure. You don’t need to worry about me."

"Vanessa, you’re always so understanding…"

A practiced smile curved Vanessa’s lips.

She glanced toward the door, making sure Margaret wouldn’t return before lowering her voice. "Dad, the woman from Peace Street contacted me. She wants to see you."

Richard froze, guilt flickering across his face.