Chapter 46

Evelyn remembered, from what she knew of Leonard, that his reservations about Serena went far beyond simple background concerns. If family status had been Leonard's only issue, she doubted his reaction would have been so severe when Nathan brought her home—especially considering Evelyn's own humble beginnings. Leonard had accepted her, despite her being an illegitimate child with less-than-stellar looks. So why the harsh judgment toward Serena, whose only "flaw" was a deceased father and modest upbringing?

Besides, Serena’s uncle was the chairman of the Thornton Group.

Evelyn had assumed Dylan, as Serena’s cousin, would know more about the situation. But it turned out he was just as clueless.

Dylan’s gaze lingered on Evelyn, a sudden realization dawning on him. He quickly interjected, "Ms. Hartley, don’t misunderstand. My cousin isn’t the problem here. She and Nathan have a real connection. It’s that wretched woman who forced her way into their relationship."

Evelyn’s expression darkened, a vein pulsing at her temple. Her voice was icy, her eyes narrowing as she regarded Dylan. "Mr. Reeves, repeatedly insulting someone’s appearance is hardly gentlemanly behavior."

Dylan stiffened, then chuckled awkwardly. "Well, I have strong opinions about that woman. You might not know this, Ms. Hartley, but she—born out of wedlock—isn’t just unattractive and overweight. She’s utterly delusional. She actually believes Nathan married her for love, so she acts like she owns him—controlling the household, meddling in his business, tracking his every move, and scheming behind the scenes."

He scoffed, his disdain palpable. "She’s sabotaged every woman who’s ever spoken to Nathan or shown him the slightest kindness. Ridiculous, isn’t it? Nathan was sick of her antics. Frankly, we all were."

His lip curled in contempt. "She’s nothing but an illegitimate daughter from a nobody family. Does she really think marrying Nathan elevates her? It’s laughable!"

Evelyn exhaled silently, her emotions churning. Watching the mockery on Dylan’s face, her own expression turned frigid. Then, a slow, knowing smile curved her lips. "Interesting… Mr. Reeves, wasn’t your mother once a penniless student funded by your father?"

Dylan froze for a split second before forcing a nod. "Yes, that’s correct."

Evelyn’s smile remained, sharp as a blade. "And isn’t it true that when your mother was pregnant with you, your father was still legally married to his first wife?"

Years ago, Cassandra Whitmore had approached Gregory Thornton under the guise of gratitude. Slowly, she had ensnared him, becoming his mistress and maintaining the affair for years.

Gregory had never intended to leave his wife—Cassandra was merely a hidden indulgence. Tragically, his wife fell gravely ill and passed away. Around the same time, Cassandra discovered she was pregnant. When the ultrasound confirmed a son, Gregory finally married her.