?Chapter 402:


    When that inevitable moment came, Elliana knew confrontation would follow like thunder after lightning. This battle wasn’t just about social positioning—Jason was a dangerous adversary. Matthew would crumble under such pressure.


    Seth, Moonveil’s visionary founder, had possessed extraordinary martial prowess, earning recognition as Donovan’s equal—the very man who had founded Star Society.


    Jason, carefully chosen as Seth’s sessor, had absorbed every lesson Moonveil had to offer. His full potential remained a mystery that demanded respect. Though Elliana had encountered Jason before, their meetings had been brief, tense, and never revealing the true depth of their respective strengths. She wrestled with uncertainty about hisplete capabilities, and that unknown factor warned her to proceed with caution. A single misstep could expose Star Society to Moonveil’s meticulously nned conquest.


    Lost in thought, Elliana was halfway through her sandwich when Jason appeared. His voice cut through the morning air as he demanded her attention for a conversation.


    She maintained herposure, taking another deliberate bite before lifting her eyes to meet his. “Speak your mind.”


    They had exchanged very few words since his return to the Evans dynasty, always surrounded by watching crowds.


    Even without direct dialogue, Elliana sensed the waves of his disapproval washing over her. Now, his hostility zed openly. He couldn’t even pretend to offer basic manners. She mirrored his coldness, barely acknowledging him.


    Jason remained still, his gaze fixed on her. “Elliana, do you think you deserve the title of matriarch of the Evans family?”


    Elliana hesitated, surprised by the bluntness of his contempt. Yet, her expression remained serene, as if his words had evaporated in the morning breeze. Her voice came out t and emotionless. “Your tone suggests you think I don’t deserve it?”


    “Precisely,” Jason replied, his face expressionless, as though carved from stone. “In every measurable way—status, lineage—you are unworthy of Cole. Though circumstances forced this marriage upon you, I trust you are wise enough not to cling to Cole because of it.”


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    Elliana had heard this sentiment before. Not long ago, Hugh, in a fit of rage, had screamed the same usations at her.


    Jason continued, “Cole possesses exceptional brilliance and deserves a superior woman at his side. Just do the right thing—disappear.” He handed her a check, extending it toward her. “Five hundred million, for your ‘contributions’ to the Evans family—the Venacure.”


    Jason, wielding immense influence within the Evans family andmanding vast portions of their assets, had wealth that was nearly unimaginable. His control over Moonveil only added to his already deep pockets.


    Elliana eyed the check but kept her hands firmly at her sides. Five hundred million offered so casually—it was generosity wrapped in condescension. But what authority did he have to dictate her life? She finished her sandwich, then met his gaze with a slight smile, amusement flickering in her eyes. “And what if I refuse?”


    Jason’s expression hardened, as though his patience was at its breaking point. “Then don’t me me for employing more forceful methods.”


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