Chapter 240

"Let's grab lunch," Dominic suggested, his voice smooth as he extended the invitation to Evelyn.

She met his gaze, suspicion flickering in her eyes. "Have you been standing out here the whole time?"

Dominic didn’t answer.

If he hadn’t been waiting for her, he would’ve left ages ago.

Evelyn tilted her face toward the sun.

Early autumn had softened its intensity, but the afternoon rays still carried a lingering warmth.

"Where’s Sophia?" she asked.

Dominic glanced toward the parking lot. "She’s in the car."

"I see… You two go ahead. My mom cooked, so we’re heading home for lunch," Evelyn replied, her refusal swift and firm.

She couldn’t fathom why Dominic would even suggest sharing a meal with Sophia present.

Did he have no shame?

Even if he wanted to juggle multiple women—no, three—he didn’t have to be this blatant about it.

"I already made reservations at that restaurant over there," Dominic said, unfazed by her rejection. "Sophia needs to go to Willowbrook Academy later, and so does Henry. Let’s eat first, then take them together."

Evelyn pressed her lips together.

After a brief pause, she shook her head. "We’re eating at home. I’ll take Henry to school after his nap."

Realizing politeness wouldn’t work, Dominic switched tactics.

"Why are you so afraid of having lunch with me?" His voice dropped, laced with challenge. "Can’t exes share a meal? Or are you avoiding me because you still have feelings?"

Evelyn’s temper flared.

She forced herself to stay composed, then took Henry’s hand and marched toward the restaurant.

Dominic smirked and went to fetch Sophia from the car.

Once seated, the air between them thickened with tension.

Evelyn skimmed the menu, ordered a few dishes, then slid it across the table to Dominic.

He passed it to Sophia without hesitation.

Evelyn’s fingers tightened around her glass.

She poured herself water, lifted it, and took a reckless gulp—only to realize too late it was scalding.

She choked, her throat burning.

Dominic was on his feet instantly. He snatched the jug, strode to the counter, and returned with ice water, pouring her a fresh glass.

"Drink," he commanded, his voice rough with concern.

Evelyn obeyed, the cold liquid soothing the burn. "I’m fine."

"What were you thinking?" His gaze bore into her. "You’re never this careless."

Her cheeks flushed. "Ask me that again after I pour hot water on you."

"Did I upset you?" He leaned back, pouring himself a glass and taking a slow sip.

"I never wanted this lunch," Evelyn shot back, keeping her voice low for Henry’s sake. "Let’s see how well you eat if I brought another man and flirted with him right in front of you."

Dominic’s brow furrowed. "You think I’m being inappropriate with Sophia?"

Evelyn ignored him, focusing on her phone.

If he couldn’t see it, then fine.

A man who could date two women at once had no principles left.

Dominic understood now.

Her reaction had spiked the moment he handed the menu to Sophia.

If jealousy was her response to something so small, then she still cared.

"Put the phone down, Evelyn." He reached over and plucked it from her hand.

She stiffened.

Dominic set it aside, determined to talk properly.

With Sophia and Henry present, their conversation would stay private—no risk of secrets slipping out.