Chapter 131

Dominic’s recovery was progressing better than expected. With the help of his walking stick, he could move around with surprising ease.

He rose from bed and made his way to his walk-in closet, scanning the rows of tailored suits and dress shirts.

Nearly everything was in deep, muted tones—charcoal, navy, black.

His lips pressed into a thin line as he took in the monochromatic gloom.

After a moment of hesitation, he abandoned the task and reached for his phone, dialing Nathan.

"Nathan, I need a light-colored suit."

"Certainly, sir. Casual or formal?"

"Casual."

"Understood. I'll arrange it immediately," Nathan replied smoothly. "Also, the jeweler you commissioned has finalized the design sketches. I've sent them to your email. They can begin production as soon as you approve."

"Good."

Dominic ended the call and strode into his study, powering up his laptop.

New Year’s Eve was approaching—the first one he would spend with Evelyn. He wanted it to be unforgettable.

He clicked open Nathan’s email and examined the intricate sketch of the custom diamond ring.

The design was inspired by a snowflake—delicate, unique, and breathtaking. Just like Evelyn.

At Ravenswood University, Evelyn and Sophie sat in the bustling cafeteria after morning rehearsals.

"Why did you drop out of the dance performance?" Sophie asked, stirring her iced tea.

"Too much work. I’d rather focus on my song," Evelyn answered absently, glancing at her phone. "Is Adrian coming to the concert?"

"He wanted to, but he’s not a student. No way they’d let him in."

Evelyn nodded.

"Is your husband coming? Rumor has it you two have been inseparable lately. True? You’ve been ignoring my texts about it," Sophie accused, narrowing her eyes.

"Did Adrian tell you that?" Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Since when did he become such a gossip? You should remind him to focus on his career instead."

Sophie smirked. "All I care about right now is romance! Speaking of which—have you told Dominic about grad school abroad? I made Adrian swear not to mention it, so I doubt he knows."

Evelyn’s expression flickered.

Sophie didn’t miss it.

"You haven’t told him? Worried he’ll stop you?"

Evelyn took a slow sip of water. "I’ll tell him after the holidays."

"Fine! So—is he coming to the concert or not? If he is, tell him to bring Adrian along!"

"He’s coming."

Sophie sighed dramatically. "And yet you still refuse to admit things are going well! He’s skipping his company’s gala for our concert. That means you’re more important than work! Meanwhile, Adrian wouldn’t miss that gala for anything. So no, your husband won’t have to babysit my Adrian."

Evelyn shuddered.

"Please stop saying ‘your husband’ and ‘my Adrian.’ Since when did you get so cringey?"

Sophie grinned. "Am I wrong? Dominic Blackwood is your husband. Adrian might not be mine yet, but pet names are normal, aren’t they?"

Evelyn flagged down a waiter and ordered, handing the menu back without another word.

"Do you think he’ll go onstage and give you flowers after your performance?" Sophie asked, eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Evelyn scoffed. "How? With his cane?"

Sophie deflated. "What a waste! I was hoping to see you two go public in front of the whole school!"

"Stop watching so many rom-coms," Evelyn deadpanned.

Sophie groaned. "What kind of relationship is this? You’re so boring! Where’s the passion?"