The emotions in Avery's eyes seemed genuine. Valencia had never seen her with such a loving expression whenever she was with Lincoln.

Valencia, being a seasoned observer of people, immediately recognized the depth of Avery's feelings for Tyler.

Valencia smirked.

Once a woman fell in love, she was doomed for failure. Though Avery's intricate and malicious schemes were indeed unrivaled, she was still too young.

Valencia realized she could easily control Avery using Tyler. Tyler's mental condition predetermined he had no chance of being the heir to any powerful family, and consequently, even the Yeagers would be Lincoln's to command.

Valencia had made up her mind, but she knew she could not appear too eager to agree with Avery's plan. Thus, she said worriedly, "But Tyler is ill..."

Avery quickly reassured her. "You don't have to worry. I have a way to cure Tyler."

After a prolonged silence, Valencia spoke again. "Tyler is, after all, my biological son. You have to explain your entire plan. Once I'm sure it won't cause significant harm to Tyler, I can cooperate with you."

A spark of delight gleamed in Avery's eyes. "Of course."

With Valencia's cooperation, Avery's plan would surely yield twice the results with half the effort.

With that in mind, Avery lowered her voice and began to discuss her plan with Valencia.

...

Vicky handed the transfer agreement to Braxton and left the Harts' mansion.

The previous incident had caused significant psychological stress on Braxton, so he did not give Vicky a hard time.

Not wanting to linger at the Harts' mansion any longer, Vicky departed smoothly.

For a moment, it truly seemed as though Valencia merely summoned Vicky to apologize to Braxton in person.

After handling some work at the studio, Vicky returned home.

Tyler arrived home punctually that evening. Vicky had prepared dinner, and the two of them sat in the dining room to dine together as usual.

Glancing at the bowl of soup placed on his left by Vicky, the look in Tyler's eyes darkened. A few seconds later, he picked up the bowl and downed the soup in a single gulp.

Vicky felt a slight sense of relief at the sight.

"I've finished eating." She stood up. "You probably still have work to do, so go ahead. I'll clean up."

Gracefully placing his bowl down, Tyler asked, "What did you do this afternoon?"

Vicky paused for a moment and answered, "Nothing much; just some work at the studio."