The Queen Returns—And She's Unforgiving

Ever since her diagnosis, Evelyn had been feeling emotionally drained. The target medication had taken a toll on her appetite, causing her to lose several pounds.

She didn't even want to imagine what she would look like if she had to undergo full chemotherapy. So for now, she could only try to delay it as long as possible.noveldrama

Once the project at Flying Seal Group was finalized and reached a stable phase, she could finally focus on treatment—and begin the difficult task of persuading Leonard and Deborah.

After changing her clothes, her phone started ringing nonstop. She picked it up and saw a string of photos sent by Justine.

They were clearly taken on the sly. In the photos, taken inside a jewelry store at the mall, Lucas was seen with Tiffany-helping her pick out jewelry.

Tiffany held a delicate emerald necklace in her hands. So when he called earlier, he had actually taken a break from his date to "take care of something".

Justine texted, "What a buzzkill! I'm just next door and saw the whole thing. Lucas was swiping his card like crazy for Tiffany. High-end gifts, one after another.

"Just a second ago, he bought her an emerald necklace and earrings worth over seven million dollars. He didn't even blink. I have to hand it to Tiffany-she's really living the good life as the mistress."

Evelyn slowly looked away from the photos and found herself reflecting on her marriage to Lucas. He had never once gone shopping with her. She never even asked for that kind of company. As for the gifts he gave her?

Most were things Maria had arranged behind the scenes-luxury handbags and jewelry from overseas trips. Then there were the "obligatory" presents for her birthday or anniversaries, which he had Michael handle.

On the surface, it seemed thoughtful. But really, it felt like part of a routine task, something done without meaning. Even though the items were expensive, they couldn't compare to the personal attention he now gave Tiffany.

Those gifts of hers-unlike Evelyn's-came with presence, with intention. She hadn't even taken most of the things he gave her. They were still neatly arranged in the wardrobe at the house they lived in together.

No matter how luxurious they were, she no longer cared. Evelyn replied to Justine with a simple message. "Head home early." Then, she turned in for the night.

As for Lucas and Tiffany? Evelyn didn't want to hear about it, didn't care anymore, and definitely didn't want to let it ruin her mood.

After arriving at Flying Seal Group the next day, Evelyn checked her email and saw that Lucas still hadn't sent the photos he promised. He had probably just forgotten.

She didn't feel comfortable following up, so she let it go for now. During her lunch break, she gave Michael a call.

That last time she had brought up Naomi's memorial date, Lucas hadn't let her finish. He told her to coordinate it with Michael instead, so she had no choice but to confirm directly.

It took a while for Michael to pick up. His tone was all business. "Ms. Reed, Mr. Grant is still busy. You might want to try calling back later."

He automatically assumed she was calling to ask about Lucas again and gave a perfunctory response.

Evelyn didn't bother addressing his attitude. She just calmly said, "I'm not calling about him. I need to confirm his schedule for the 24th. Is he available that day?"

Michael suddenly understood and replied slowly, "Apologies, Ms. Reed. Mr. Grant has personal matters scheduled that day, so it won't be possible."

Evelyn frowned. "The 24th marks the third anniversary of my mother's passing. Can he not spare just one hour?" She wasn't asking him to stay for the whole memorial just to show up briefly.

Michael hesitated for a second before replying, "I'll check with Mr. Grant and get back to you."

There wasn't much more Evelyn could say. She figured it was just one hour. Lucas couldn't have any reason to refuse.

After ending the call, Michael was still thinking about how to bring it up when he

spotted Lucas and Tiffany returning from lunch.

They were chatting casually as they walked side by side.

Michael hesitated before he called, "Mr. Grant..."

Lucas glared at him. "What is it?"