His Destructive, Toxic Love novel Chapter 78

Eliza had once believed, naively, that Casper would help her. That he'd rescue her father by clearing his name. But justice never came, and her father was gone. Disappointment had slowly piled up, and now she could talk about it without flinching.

"Elle, don't worry. If we manage to get Robin out this time, I promise I'll keep him safe and hidden. Casper won't get another chance."

"Okay."

After explaining everything, Eliza stared blankly at the sunset, already sinking below the horizon. So beautiful, yet fleeting. It all seemed so simple once she figured out the things overwhelming her. She smiled slightly, her bright eyes clear and calm like a spring.

The next morning, one of Casper's people delivered a dress to Eliza. Compared to the one she wore to Daniel's, this one was far less formal, more daring—a black off-the-shoulder number with a plunging V that went all the way to her navel. The back was even bolder; she would be almost entirely exposed except for a string of pearls holding it together. It was the kind of dress she'd only seen on celebrities or socialites. But she understood why Casper had chosen it.

That evening, Marian knocked on her door. "Ma'am, Mr. Welton asked me to call you down. He specifically requested you wear the dress."

"Sure," Eliza replied.

Half an hour later, she descended from the second floor. The black, sultry dress hugged her waist like it might break with a touch. Her long, wavy hair fell over her shoulders, seductive and enchanting. Her exposed skin looked perfect and delicate. She had put on bold makeup to contrast the black dress. Her red lips looked like alluring red roses.

Casper had never seen Eliza like this. In his mind, she was always bare-faced. The only time she wore makeup was probably when they registered their marriage. This woman in front of him shattered his preconceived notions.

For a moment, he was speechless. "You... look different today."

"Mr. Casper, don't you know people change?"

Not in the mood to talk, she turned her body almost completely away from him. Casper, feeling ignored, looked irritated.

The banquet was held at a manor. Early-arriving dignitaries and business tycoons were mingling, dressed to the nines. Women in cocktail dresses gathered in small groups, whispering and laughing. Not every man had a date; it was a business event, after all. Groups of men chatted about business plans and future prospects.

When Eliza walked in, she immediately caught the attention of every man in the room—some looked in awe, others with greed. A few well-known businessmen seized the chance to chat with Casper, all the while eyeing Eliza.

Casper's target was clear: Easton Gillum.