Unmasking the Heiress (Evangeline and Walte)

Chapter 178

+25 BONUS

James' voice carried a note of self-deprecation, but everyone there knew the truth.

James was a legend, a top-tier lawyer with a golden touch. Most lawyers bill by the hour or by the case, but not James. His time was so valuable that he charged by the minute, and only the big shots could afford to get him on board.

Around Evangeline, however, he was just a big softie, playing the fool to make her laugh. Everyone was in on the joke, and it only made them respect him more.

Evangeline had unwrapped so many presents that the thrill was starting to wear off- until she saw the unusual gift box from Uncle James. Her curiosity sparked back to life.

She opened the box with care and pulled out a rolled-up piece of paper. It was a painting!

Unrolling it, she was greeted by a serene autumn landscape. The golden oak leaves fluttered gently in the breeze, while the deep red maples stood tall, adding a vibrant contrast to the scene. The painting's deer, captured mid-leap, added a touch of graceful motion. Thanks to her recent art hist

ory readings, Evangeline recognized it instantly. "This is... Robert Gainsborough's 'Autumn's Embrace"!" she gasped.

When James gifted someone something, it was the real deal, no question about it.

While studying art, Evangeline had been captivated by the deer, symbols of nobility and freedom, and dreamed of seeing the original masterpiece.

Uncle James had made that dream come true!

"Do you like it?" he asked.

"Like it? I absolutely love it!" Evangeline beamed, wishing every day could be her birthday.

Deep down, she knew it was just a silly thought. The gifts were nice, sure, but it was her uncles' heartfelt care that truly moved her.

With her mother gone too soon, Evangeline had long missed being someone's treasure. On this day, she felt truly cherished

For years, it was Cole's loving care that got her this far. At this moment, feeling the

+25 BONUS

Chapter 178

warmth of her uncles' concern, Evangeline was on the verge of tears.

James was not focused on Evangeline's touched heart. His eyes were locked on Walter, standing right next to her.

"Evie, you know, I really thought hard about your present. In Robert Gainsborough's works, the deer represents faithfulness. This gift symbolizes the ideal unity and harmony between husband and wife."

James thought of adding, "If that unity can't be achieved, then parting ways, like autumn leaves carried away by the wind, could also be an option."

He held back only because Cole was there.

The whole divorce drama James was helping Evangeline and Walter with was already the talk of the town. Who did not know about it?

James' message was crystal clear: If Walter did not treat Evangeline like a treasure, James would not go easy on him.

When Walter saw the painting, his mind started racing. He was overwhelmed, his feelings a tangled mess, and he was at a loss for words.

One thing was for sure-he managed to tick off all five of Evangeline's uncles right at the first meeting!

After the uncles' gifts were all handed out, Walter's present was the last thing Evangeline was looking forward to, so she figured the peak of her birthday party was already behind her.

Just when she thought it was all over, amid the guests' applause, Cole, who had been all smiles and silent, suddenly raised his hand, motioning for silence.

The room fell into a hushed silence as Cole rose from his seat, gently placing his hand on Evangeline's head.