Chapter 195

"Lily looks just like you," Henry remarked.

"Henry, he is indeed your father. But he's not fond of children, so it's best if neither of you approach him. If he discovers you're his, I don't know what he might do," Evelyn warned.

Henry scoffed. "We don’t want a father like him anyway."

Evelyn studied him carefully. "You’ve changed since coming home, Henry. You’ve matured."

"Mom, I’m not sick. I just find most people childish and dull," he replied flatly.

She nodded. "I understand. You prefer intelligent people like Uncle Lucas. But as you grow older, you’ll realize that those who aren’t as brilliant still have their own worth. Kindness, sincerity—those matter too."

Henry didn’t argue, though he clearly disagreed.

Maybe one day, he’d understand.

Zoe arrived home at seven that evening. She unwrapped the gift she’d received earlier, her excitement fading as she examined it.

This wasn’t something Dominic had chosen himself.

The assistant had delivered it—meaning Nathan had probably picked it out.

She was right. Dominic had delegated the task, and Nathan had settled on a Chavel handbag.

Zoe stared at it, Avery’s face flashing in her mind.

Dominic had lied for her.

He claimed Sophia wasn’t feeling well, that he needed to stay home with her. But the truth? He’d stayed for Evelyn.

He’d canceled their date—for Evelyn.

Normally, she wouldn’t care. But today was her birthday.

The disrespect stung.

The next day at Thornfield Industries…

The receptionist called up. "Miss Thorne, there’s a woman here to see you—Dominic Blackwood’s girlfriend."

Evelyn’s secretary confirmed, "We verified with Blackwood Group. She is indeed his new partner."

Evelyn set down her pen. After a brief hesitation, she headed downstairs.

Zoe stood in the lobby, dressed simply—no makeup, just a white tee and jeans. The casual look made her seem younger.

"Miss Thorne," Zoe greeted with a polite smile. "I heard you studied under Professor Whitmore. I was hoping we could chat over lunch today… if you’re free?"

Her tone was light, but Evelyn knew better. Still, she agreed.

They chose a nearby restaurant.

Once seated, Zoe smiled. "You started Thornfield Industries right after graduation? Impressive. I’ve just been working at the hospital—not nearly as glamorous."

Evelyn arched a brow. "Didn’t Dominic pay you for treating Sophia? He spent a billion searching for her. Surely he compensated you properly?"

Zoe’s smile tightened. "He offered a billion. But I couldn’t accept it."

"Ah. Because taking it would ruin your chances of dating him?" Evelyn said bluntly.

Zoe stiffened.

"Forgive my directness," Evelyn added, sipping her tea. "Just an observation."

Zoe forced a laugh. "It’s fine. I know you resent me. Without me, maybe you’d have another shot with Dominic."

Evelyn leaned forward. "You misunderstand. I don’t dislike you because of Dominic."

Zoe blinked. "Then why?"

"Because of how shamelessly you inserted yourself into this mess," Evelyn said coolly.

Zoe’s expression faltered. "Are you saying I stole him from you?"