Chapter 164

The concert began.

Christina, the renowned pianist, glided onto the stage in a deep blue velvet gown. She settled gracefully before the grand piano, ready to enchant the audience with her signature piece, Whispers of Eternity.

The melody wrapped around the hall like a spell, silencing every whisper.

Though the music was mesmerizing, Evadne's attention lingered on Christina's dress.

That exquisite, one-of-a-kind creation was designed by Haron—the alias Evadne herself used in the fashion world.

Only the elite of international stardom could commission a Haron original.

Thaddeus clenched his fists, his knuckles white.

His simmering rage burned hotter as he watched Evadne's serene profile.

Avery leaned in occasionally, murmuring something that made her lips curve. Her eyes sparkled with quiet amusement, as if his words were the most fascinating thing she'd ever heard.

Thaddeus's jaw tightened.

Why did she have so much to say to him?

In three years of marriage, she'd never looked at him like that.

"Damn, why's it so cold in here?" Jareth muttered, rubbing his arms.

After several pieces, Christina introduced her star pupil, Edith.

The young woman stepped forward, her chestnut curls cascading over a delicate green chiffon dress embroidered with blossoms. She was radiant, poised—every inch the rising star.

"Edith! Over here! Your big brother's watching!" Jareth called, waving like an overexcited fan.

Thaddeus shot him a glare that could freeze lava.

Edith, oblivious, bowed gracefully before taking her seat at the piano. Her fingers danced over the keys, bringing Mozart's Turkish March to life.

Evadne watched, her left hand resting on her knee. Her fingers twitched faintly, mirroring the melody from muscle memory.

That damaged little finger almost felt alive again.

"You used to play beautifully," Avery murmured. "If you'd pursued music, you'd have outshone her."

"Not possible now." Evadne curled her fingers into a fist. "I'll never play like that again."

Years ago, on Zenithia's battlefield, she'd torn the ligaments in her left hand dragging Thaddeus to safety. The numbness in her pinky was permanent.

Countless hours of rehab had barely restored function to the other fingers.

But she didn't regret saving him.

Even after everything, they'd once fought side by side for peace.

Her scars weren't shadows—they were medals.

The concert ended with thunderous applause. Christina and Edith took their bows, accepting bouquets and cheers.

"Ms. Evadne," Avery said, offering his arm. "Would you accompany me backstage?"

"Is this about the autograph for your mother?"

He nodded. "Christina's notoriously selective, but I'd like to try."

Evadne smirked. "Good luck charming her."

Jareth, bursting with pride, hauled Thaddeus backstage with a massive bouquet.

The corridor narrowed as two groups collided.

Evadne froze mid-step.

Avery stiffened. "My apologies. I didn't realize he'd be here. We can leave."

"Don't worry about it." She shrugged. "No law says I have to avoid my ex. Besides, your mother deserves that autograph."

Avery's gaze softened.

Thaddeus's face turned to stone.

They were close enough for every word to slice through him.

He'd spent the entire concert swallowing fury. Now, hearing her care about Avery's mother? It took every ounce of control not to demand how far their relationship had gone.

But why should he care?

They were divorced.

Yet here he was, heart pounding, desperate to close the distance between them.

A door swung open.

"Thaddeus!"

A green blur launched at him before he could react. Edith clung to him, nuzzling his chest. "You came just for me, didn't you? Were you trying to surprise me?"

Thaddeus went rigid, his eyes darting to Evadne.

Jareth chuckled, oblivious. "Hey, what about your real brother?"

Edith ignored him, pressing closer. "Jareth's too wild. I prefer you—fresh and handsome. Exactly my type."

Thaddeus turned his face away, but not fast enough.

Evadne was already walking toward them.

Her pearl-bright eyes met his.

His breath caught.