Chapter 136
The afternoon sun cast golden rays through the curtains as Evelyn and Dominic returned home to rest, knowing they’d be staying up late to welcome the new year.
Once Dominic had drifted off, Evelyn opened her eyes, her gaze lingering on his face.
She could never tire of looking at him.
If only time would freeze.
This moment—perfect, serene—was everything she wanted to last forever.
When Dominic stirred awake around four, the space beside him was empty.
He rose and descended the stairs, finding Evelyn in the kitchen, already preparing dinner.
"You're awake!" she greeted, flashing him a warm smile.
"I was thinking of making steak tonight. What do you think?"
Dominic leaned against the doorway, watching her move with effortless grace.
"Let me cook instead," he offered.
Evelyn’s brows shot up in surprise. "You cook?" She untied her apron with a playful smirk. "By all means! I’ve never tasted your culinary skills before."
"I’ve never tried, but I can follow instructions," Dominic admitted, taking the apron from her. "Go relax in the living room."
"Can I stay and watch?" she asked, eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Dominic pulled out a chair for her without protest.
Evelyn sat, thoroughly entertained as he worked with surprising precision.
Everything he did carried an air of effortless mastery.
When she took her first bite of the steak that evening, she couldn’t help but gush.
"This is better than any five-star restaurant."
"Maybe you haven’t dined at the right places," he teased.
"Can’t you just accept the compliment?"
"Fine. I’ll admit—I’m a natural."
Evelyn laughed, shaking her head.
She picked the broccoli from her plate and dropped it onto his, then stole a cherry tomato from his in return, popping it into her mouth.
"Don’t be picky, Evelyn," Dominic chided, though his tone was light as he ate the rejected greens.
"I’m not! I just prefer my vegetables roasted, not steamed."
After dinner, they took a leisurely walk outside before settling in the living room with the TV humming softly.
Evelyn rested her head against Dominic’s shoulder, her eyelids growing heavy.
He nudged her awake at half past eleven.
"Time for fireworks. The new year’s almost here."
A bright smile curved her lips, though something wistful flickered in her eyes.
They bundled up and stepped outside, where their bodyguard was setting up the display.
Soon, the night sky erupted in a dazzling array of colors.
Evelyn tilted her head back, the cool breeze brushing against her skin.
"I have something for you," Dominic murmured near her ear.
She turned, surprised. "A gift? We agreed not to exchange anything."
Once again, she had nothing for him.
"I ordered this in advance," he said, pulling a small velvet box from his pocket.
Evelyn didn’t need to open it to guess what was inside.
"We’ve been married over half a year. Consider this your belated wedding ring."
He lifted the lid, revealing a stunning diamond ring nestled within.
Tears welled in Evelyn’s eyes.
Dominic slid the ring onto her finger with deliberate care.
"It’s perfect," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
"I’m glad you like it," he replied, his fingers tightening around hers.
Above them, the fireworks painted the sky in brilliant hues.
As the countdown began, Evelyn rose onto her toes and pressed her lips to his.
Dominic felt the dampness on her cheeks before he saw her tears.
He wanted to ask why she was crying, but the clock struck midnight.
"Happy New Year, Dominic Blackwood," she whispered, her grip on him loosening.