The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 550

Early morning, the Charles Group Estate. The sky was still dark, the garden lights casting a silvery glow over the fountains in the twilight. Evelyn stood before the full-length mirror, dressed in a deep blue gown, her hair swept into an elegant updo that highlighted her slender neck. The Thorne Matriarch's Bangle around her wrist gleamed softly under the chandelier. Sebastian walked into the room, impeccably dressed in a black suit with understated obsidian cufflinks.

"Ready?" he asked.

Evelyn nodded. "Let's go."

The two of them headed downstairs. Madeline was sitting at the dining table, eating a bowl of oatmeal. She paused when she saw them. "Where are you two going this early?"

"Switzerland," Evelyn replied. "There's a private dinner in Lausanne."

Madeline blinked. "Switzerland? What kind of dinner?"

"A gathering of Europe's political and business elites," Sebastian answered.

Madeline let out a soft "oh" and went back to her breakfast. Evelyn looped her arm through Sebastian's as they walked out of the dining room. The car was already waiting by the entrance, and Felton held the door open for them.

"Have a safe trip, Ms. Sullivan, Mr. Thorne."

Evelyn slipped into the backseat. Sebastian got in from the other side, and the car pulled away, gliding out the estate gates. The horizon was just beginning to turn a pale gray, and the streetlights flickered off one by one. Evelyn leaned back, gazing out the window.

"Do you think the mastermind will be there tonight?" she suddenly asked.

Sebastian thought for a moment. "We'll wait for Julian's update. Whether they show up or not, we'll adapt."

Evelyn murmured her agreement and fell silent. She closed her eyes, resting her hand gently against her lower abdomen. The car pressed forward as the sky slowly brightened.

The capital, Lancaster Group. The top-floor executive suite.

The sun had barely risen, but Christian was already at his desk. A mountain of documents lay open before him, but he couldn't focus on a single word. A knock sounded at the door.

"Come in."

Miles pushed the door open, holding a tablet. He walked over to the desk, his expression slightly grim.

"Mr. Lancaster, we have news from France."

Christian looked up. "Speak."

Miles tapped the screen. "Leon passed away early this morning. The hospital ruled it as complications, but the Duke suspects foul play. The security cameras on the ICU floor were destroyed last night. The entire floor's feed was wiped."