Chapter 9

Evelyn asked, "What did you say? You were the one who set me up with Warren back then?"

Gertrude let out an icy snort. "How else do you think it happened? Did you think Warren was your knight in shining armor? Use your brain—there's no reason for someone like Warren to show up at such a remote alley.

"If it weren't for the trap your cousin and I devised, you wouldn't have been able to live such a life of luxury over the past three years. Yet, you are unsatiated. You covet the position of Mrs. Larkin.

"With such a shameless mother, do you expect any wealthy family in Bramston City to marry you? You must return to Warren no matter what.

"Otherwise, I'll make sure everyone knows what kind of mother you have," Gertrude said through gritted teeth. It was as though the two of them were not related by blood.

From the wound on Evelyn's forehead, blood trickled down her face and through her pursed lips. The metallic taste of blood exploded in her mouth.

She felt a sudden sense of repugna