Chapter 324

"It was me." Evelyn Carter met Simon Stapleton's bloodshot eyes without flinching. "You destroyed my best friend. You should've seen this coming."

Simon grabbed her throat. "Vivian deserved it!"

"Deserved what? For loving a monster like you?" Evelyn's laugh was icy. "Now you're trying to ruin Natalie. I won't let that happen."

"Natalie?" Simon released her, bursting into sudden laughter. "That idiot threw herself at me. I was just having some fun."

"She's not an idiot. She truly loved you."

Simon's grin froze.

"She thought she'd found real love, but you only wanted her family's money." Evelyn spoke each word deliberately. "Simon Stapleton, scum like you belongs in hell."

"Shut up!"

Simon yanked her hair, dragging her toward the deck. The fishing boat rocked violently as waves crashed against the hull.

"See this ocean?" He forced her head toward the black water. "If I don't make it, neither will you. When Alexander finds you, all he'll get is fish food!"

Peter Harrison rushed forward. "Calm down! Alexander's almost here—"

"Back off!" Simon shoved him away. "I've got nothing left to lose!"

Peter checked his watch. "Take her as leverage. Demand enough money to start fresh abroad. I can get you out using my assistant's passport."

Simon's eyes flickered. With a twisted smile, he hauled Evelyn back into the cabin.

"What are you—"

The stench of gasoline flooded the space. Evelyn coughed violently as the liquid soaked through her clothes.

Simon strode out. The sound of splashing liquid followed. Then the cabin door slammed shut with a final thud.

"You're insane!" Peter's muffled voice came through the walls.

"This'll make Alexander pay up fast." Simon's tone was unhinged. "With multiple boats burning, he'll never know which one she's on. One delay, and he collects ashes!"

WHOOSH—

Flames engulfed the vessel instantly. Thick smoke billowed as scorching heat rolled through the cabin.

Evelyn curled in a corner, watching fire lick across every surface. Each breath seared her lungs like swallowing molten blades.

Through the inferno, she almost saw Alexander's desperate face.