Unmasking the Heiress

To her surprise, a soft chuckle came from the other end of the line. Alex's laughter, light and unexpected, echoed through the phone.

"Why do you think I'm here to talk you into something?"

There was a hint of challenge in his voice as if he was gently pushing back against Evangeline's assumption,

"Don't they say it's better to tear down a house than to break up a marriage? You're like a brother to both me and Walter, so it makes sense you'd call to talk some sense into me, right?" Evangeline paused, taking a deep breath.

"Bro, I don't hold a grudge for how things turned out with Walter and me. You're not here to see it, but we've been at each other's throats..."

On N

New Year's Eve, Walter had set up a fireworks display for Julia. She had to drag him back home in the dead of night, and even her hints at divorce could not stir his sympathy.

Afterward, she looked after Julia, who had tried to end it all, giving her a place to stay and the help she needed

With every step, Evangeline's hope in Walter had drained away, leaving her with nothing but disappointment.

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She was pouring her heart out to Alex because he meant the world to her.

Whenever Walter was harsh, Alex was her refuge, her comfort.

She never had a real brother, but over time, Alex had become just that

If Alex tried to sway her.... She knew she would be torn.

"I'm aware of everything." Alex's sigh was audible over the phone. "The truth is, Evie, I called to say I respect whatever you decide. Even if it means divorcing Walter." "Why?"

Alex was Walter's own flesh and blood. They were supposed to be closer.

"Because... I just want you to be happy."

Alex's voice was gentle, a soft breeze over calm waters, sending ripples of emotion through her. The ripples of warmth finally reached Evangeline's heart.

At that moment, her heart, wounded and scarred by Walter's betrayal, began to thaw.

"I can't thank you enough, Bro."

Her voice trembled as tears she did not even know she had anymore began to slide down her cheeks. Evangeline touched the dampness, a silent testament to her gratitude. Her thanks came from deep within.

Alex's words reminded her she was more than just a warrior clad in armor. She was a woman, vulnerable and real.

"Why are you thanking me?"

Alex stretched lazily, a contented sigh escaping him. "Your birthday's around the corner. What do you want? Name it, and it's yours."

Alex had always been generous with Evangeline. However, the comfort he offered was the gift she had needed most, leaving her at a loss for any other desires.

"Nothing much. Just to be happy, that's all I want for getting a year older."

Had Alex not mentioned it, her birthday would have slipped by unnoticed, uncelebrated.

"Okay, I was half-expecting you to ask me to come home. However, if you're not keen on that, I guess I'll stay put!"

There was a playful lilt to Alex's voice, tinged with mock disappointment.

Evangeline smiled, knowing very well he was just trying to cheer her up. "Enough with the jokes. When are you flying back? Once I'm done with the divorce from Walter, I'll be free. I'll come get you at the airport." The call ended, and anticipation bubbled in Evangeline's chest.

It had been ages since Alex last visited, and he was finally coming back, just in time for her birthday. How could her heart not leap with joy?