Chapter 315: Protecting me like this?
Evelina finally revealed the truth about Antoine’s death to everyone. She turned to Fiona with a guilt in her eyes. "I never imagined Vladimir would discover that I was married to Alekis. After that, I never returned to Italy because I believed that staying away from all of you was the only way to keep you safe."
Roderick’s patience snapped like a frayed thread. He had never felt a strong attachment to his grandmother for various reasons, and now, she had given him yet another reason to sever any remaining ties. "Are you serious? My father died because of you and you’ve to say this to us! Why didn’t you think of this before entering this family?"
"Rick, stay quiet," Alekis told him.
"I’m not going to stay quiet, Grandpa," Roderick said sternly and turned his gaze to Evelina. "My father died when I was in school while my mother turned into a widow. I always blamed my uncle for taking away my father, not knowing that he was also a target of this attack. Why didn’t you tell the truth to us? Vladimir could have been caught earlier. Now, I understand why Uncle always hated you. You deserve to be hated. Because of you, our family has destroyed." Roderick’s words kept turning harsher.
"Since I’ve admitted my fault, I will leave now," Evelina said.
"Who said you could leave?" Lucius turned to look at her. "You are coming with me," he said.
"Lucius, what are you doing?" Alekis frowned.
"What I would have done a long time ago if only I knew the truth," Lucius pronounced. "You were too soft on my mother, but I won’t be." He glanced at Evelina and walked to her. Holding her hand, he continued, "Mrs. Evelina Johnson will give the testimony to the police and this case will reopen."
Alekis opened his mouth to speak. However, Roderick spoke, "I will come accompany you, Uncle."
"No. I don’t want anyone else to accompany me," Lucius refused firmly. His decision was purely for safety reasons—he couldn’t afford to give Vladimir even the slightest advantage over him.
"Lucius, this case was closed a long time ago," Alekis interjected with a concerned tone. "It’s better if you don’t go out now. I knew the truth. I knew Vladimir could harm me or my family. Please, listen to me and stay inside."