Chapter 216

"What did she want from you?" Evelyn inquired sharply, her fingers tightening around her coffee cup.

Wesley's lips curled into a sardonic smile. "She claims she needs an assistant and asked me to recommend one." He let out a dry chuckle. "You'll love her requirements - someone who studied under Professor Whitmore, with skills equal to or better than hers." His eyes rolled dramatically. "Might as well admit she wants someone to handle Sophia's case for her. As if any qualified professional would agree to be her assistant! The woman's either delusional or just plain stupid."

Evelyn couldn't help but mirror his cynical expression. The audacity was almost impressive.

"She's clearly out of her depth, yet she refuses to back down." Wesley shook his head. "Dominic Blackwood isn't a fool. The truth will come out eventually." He gave Evelyn a pointed look. "You're too forgiving. Most women wouldn't show such kindness to their romantic rival."

"As long as you're comfortable with the situation," Evelyn deflected.

"Punishing myself over this serves no purpose. We need to focus on the future," she continued, deliberately changing the subject. "Good news - Thornfield Industries is nearly rebuilt. Everything's progressing smoothly."

Wesley's face brightened. "That's excellent. How's Henry adjusting at Willowbrook Academy?"

Evelyn's smile vanished at the mention of her son. "He's picked up hacking from Mike. His skills are... concerningly advanced." She massaged her temples. "Dominic's taken notice. If this continues, he might uncover more than I want him to."

"Secrets rarely stay buried forever, Evelyn," Wesley said gently. "You're not the same woman you were four years ago. Even if he discovers he's their father, he wouldn't harm them."

"Exactly why I need more power and resources," Evelyn countered sharply. "That's the only way to guarantee their safety. I'll keep this secret as long as possible." Her voice turned bitter. "Given the chaos of his personal life, my children are better off without him."

Meanwhile, Dominic had brought Sophia back to Mooncrest Manor. The family physician administered a sedative.

Once Sophia slept peacefully, the doctor turned to Dominic. "Mental health issues are beyond my expertise. I strongly recommend consulting a psychiatrist."

Dominic had considered this before. "She's wary of strangers."

"It's worth attempting," the doctor pressed. "You mentioned her condition improved post-surgery? Addressing emotional trauma could accelerate her overall recovery."

Dominic gave a terse nod. "Do you have any recommendations?"

"There's a renowned psychiatrist I know, though availability may be an issue. I'll inquire." The doctor hesitated. "You might also consult Dr. Montgomery. Her perspective would be more specialized."

Dominic's acknowledgment was curt.

Zoe arrived thirty minutes later, dressed unusually conservatively in long sleeves and pants, her face heavily made up.

"Are you well, Dr. Montgomery?" Dominic studied her appearance with concern. "I heard you were out all night."

Zoe had deliberately evaded her security detail, leaving them unaware of her whereabouts.

"An old friend visited unexpectedly," she lied smoothly, quickly redirecting. "Has Sophia had another episode?"

Dominic recounted the afternoon's events.

"Has she experienced similar trauma before?" Zoe asked professionally. "Post-brain surgery patients need calm environments free of triggers. Rest is crucial."

"Would psychiatric intervention help?"

"We could trial it with an expert," Zoe conceded carefully. "But we must respect Sophia's boundaries. If she resists, we shouldn't force it. As her cognitive functions improve, so will her emotional resilience."

"Return to your work, Dominic. I'll monitor Sophia," Zoe offered.

As Dominic retreated to his study, Zoe exhaled in quiet relief. Julian's men had swept the Oceanview Grand Hotel room that morning - no hidden cameras found. For now, last night's indiscretion remained secret.

Whoever set the trap lacked concrete evidence. Without proof, she could deny everything.