Chapter 139

Evelyn Langley's past remained a taboo subject in the Langley household. Years ago, William Langley and Victoria Langley had rushed to the capital overnight, only to return tight-lipped about their daughter's affairs.

Whispers swirled through social circles—claims that Evelyn had abandoned her studies for some wealthy heir. Some said the boy came from old money, no wonder she'd dropped out to chase that golden ticket.

William's brow furrowed. Victoria clenched her napkin.

"We broke up ages ago." Evelyn's tone was calm, as if discussing the weather.

Patricia Lorenz clicked her tongue. "Those old-money families don't marry just anyone. He was probably toying with you." Her eyes gleamed. "A girl's reputation matters. All those wasted years... surely you got some compensation?"

Visions of million-dollar breakup settlements from soap operas danced in her head. The more she thought, the more bitter she grew—why should her niece have landed such a catch?

"What compensation would you suggest, Aunt Patricia?" Evelyn's gaze turned razor-sharp.

"Money. Property..."

"Enough!" William slammed the table. "Patricia, know your place!"

She bristled. "I'm showing concern!"

Victoria grasped her daughter's icy hand. "Slander carries legal consequences, Patricia."

The usually meek Victoria's counterattack stunned Patricia. She kicked her husband under the table. "Cat got your tongue?"

Charles Lorenz kept shoveling food into his mouth. Tiffany Lorenz pretended to scroll through her phone.

Grandmother Margaret threw down her chopsticks. "Must we ruin the holidays? Patricia's blunt, but she's right. Those capital playboys think they can discard our girls without repercussions?"

"Mother!" William's eyes reddened. "Evelyn is your granddaughter!"

Victoria took a steadying breath. "We're done here." She pulled Evelyn up. "William, we're leaving."

Margaret hurled a teacup to the floor. "Outrageous! Sons forget their mothers once they take wives!"

She pointed at Victoria's retreating back. "That vixen and her little harlot can stay gone!"

The shattering porcelain echoed through the dining room. William didn't look back as he slammed the door behind them.