(Evelina's POV — Hartgrave Mansion—Continuation)
As I turned the corner, my footsteps halted mid-step.
Standing a few paces ahead—pristine white dress, posture of a queen, eyes like winter glass—was Isabella Hartgrave.
Evelina's mother.
And judging by that carefully unreadable expression on her face, she'd heard everything I'd said to Margaret. I flicked my gaze upward—and the familiar shimmer appeared in the corner of my vision:
[Isabella Hartgrave—Affection: 43% (+3%)]
Three percent higher than before. Her affection was rising faster than Father's. And that was exactly why it made me nervous.
Affection or not, I'd seen this woman's words used like knives in the game. No number could erase that memory. So I simply stepped forward, cool and unbothered, walking past her as if she were another piece of expensive furniture.
But then—
"I've sent some money to your account," Isabella said, her tone calm but heavy with something I couldn't name.
