Chapter 186
No matter how hard Evelyn tried, she could never outshine Victoria.
As Evelyn stepped out of Whitmore Enterprises, she paused to glance back at the towering glass structure before turning away decisively.
That evening, Margaret grasped Evelyn's hands excitedly. "Darling, I've got wonderful news! Our old neighborhood might be getting redeveloped!"
"Redevelopment? Are you certain?"
Evelyn had never imagined their modest neighborhood would qualify for urban renewal. Was fortune finally smiling upon them?
Just when she desperately needed funds, could this be her unexpected windfall?
Margaret's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Absolutely! I visited our old street today and spoke with neighbors. There's going to be a community meeting soon to discuss compensation options."
"I heard they're offering two choices - either replacement housing or monetary compensation."
Evelyn squeezed Margaret's hands. "This is incredible news. When the time comes, we'll carefully consider which option serves us best."
"I'm certain Walter and Beverly will hear about this eventually. We should inform your brothers before they cause trouble again."
"Let's see who dares to harass us when they're around. After all these years of suffering, it's our turn to stand strong."
Evelyn understood Margaret's unspoken wish - to finally have the upper hand against their tormentors.
With six formidable brothers by her side, who would dare cross them now?
After dinner, Evelyn sent a message to the family group chat explaining the redevelopment situation.
Olivia responded first: "Urban renewal is fantastic news! Evelyn, you've always been our lucky charm!"
Sebastian teased playfully: "Our little sister brings fortune wherever she goes. My property sales have skyrocketed lately - must be Evelyn's magic touch!"
Soon all her brothers joined the lively conversation, filling the chat with affectionate banter and exaggerated praise.
Evelyn shook her head at their antics, equal parts amused and exasperated.
"That's not the point," she typed. "The real concern is when Walter and Beverly find out, they'll definitely make trouble."
"I was wondering if any of you could come help handle the situation?"
Alexander replied instantly: "Count me in! I was planning to visit soon anyway."
Julian added: "Perfect timing - I haven't used my annual leave yet."
Christopher chimed in: "Conveniently, I'm already in Bern City for a concert but can arrive early."
Andrew wrote: "I can schedule a business trip there."
Daniel concluded: "Just wrapped filming - perfect timing for a vacation."
Reading their responses, warmth flooded Evelyn's heart. She gently touched her abdomen, imagining how many doting uncles her child would have.
The next morning, with no university classes, Evelyn headed straight to her design studio. Earning money remained her top priority.
She'd barely stepped inside when angry shouts erupted behind her. "Evelyn, you ungrateful wretch! Did you think you could hide from us forever?"
Turning to face Walter and Beverly, Evelyn's stomach dropped. "How did you find this place?"
This shouldn't be possible - they shouldn't know about her studio!
Beverly dramatically clutched Evelyn's legs, wailing. "Edward's life is ruined because of you! How can you live with yourself, avoiding us like this?"