I showered in the guest room and retreated to the study to work.

Currently, the weight of the Dickerson Group rested entirely on my shoulders. Even after leaving the office, idleness was a luxury I couldn't afford.

The study door swung open without warning. Evelyn, wrapped only in a bath towel, sauntered in and perched herself directly on my desk.

Dark love bites marred her exposed thighs—evidence of Lucas's well-known *bad habits*.

"Daniela, I told you long ago. Even if Lucas married you, he loves *me*." She looked down at me with naked ambition. "We grew up together. When your family went bankrupt, the Dickersons only let you marry in out of pity. Now that I'm back, you should return the title of Mrs. Dickerson to its rightful owner!"

"Sure. No problem."

I smiled and nodded. "As long as Lucas makes the decision, I agree to everything."

"You think he can't bear to let you go?" Evelyn's voice sharpened, clearly dissatisfied with my lack of resistance. "I know everything—you've been married three years, and he hasn't touched you once!"

"That's not what I meant."

I maintained my gentle facade. "I mean that divorce isn't up to me. You have to ask him. If he agrees, I'll fully cooperate."

Heavy footsteps approached from the hallway.

"Daniela, I know I was wrong! Please, don't hit me anymore!"

Evelyn's hand flew up and viciously slapped her own face several times. Then she threw herself off the desk, collapsing onto the floor and bursting into loud, theatrical sobs.

I glanced at the wet mark her towel had left on my documents.

Bile rose in my throat. I felt nothing but disgust.

"Evelyn?"

Lucas rushed in. Seeing Evelyn crumpled on the floor, weeping hysterically, his eyes reddened with instant heartache. Rage clouded his judgment.

"Daniela Bates, you have some nerve!"

He pointed a trembling finger at me and roared, "Kneel down and apologize to Evelyn! Now!"

I stood immediately.

Walked over to Evelyn.

And without a moment's hesitation, dropped to my knees. My voice was eerily calm. "Evelyn, I was wrong. Please forgive me, okay?"

Evelyn's sobbing cut off abruptly. She froze, tears still streaming down her face, her eyes wide with shock.

Even Lucas stood stunned, a flicker of guilt flashing through his gaze before he could mask it.

"Husband, can I get up now?"

I looked up, my expression soft and submissive. "The project Dad assigned has just started. He's old, and I don't want him to worry."