Chapter 269

"Nathan, aren't our drones impressive?" Lucas asked with a smirk, taking a bite of his apple.

Nathan glanced at his smug expression and suddenly realized Lucas wasn't as insufferable as he'd thought. In fact, he was starting to look almost... charming.

"They're decent. Don't get ahead of yourself. They still need work," Nathan retorted, adjusting his glasses.

"Even the mighty Blackwood Group can't claim perfection, can they?" Lucas shot back. "We're just getting started. The best is yet to come."

"Good luck with that."

"The moon looks stunning tonight," Lucas murmured, gazing up at the sky.

Nathan followed his gaze and hummed in agreement.

"Let's call a truce," Lucas said abruptly, turning to face him with unexpected seriousness. "Who knows? We might need to collaborate someday."

Nathan scoffed. "You just can't get enough of my boss's money, can you?"

"Please. We've dealt with far more ridiculous clients overseas."

"Those drones Dominic bought from you will bring you more than just a billion. This deal will be tomorrow's headline—everyone will want a piece of Alpha Tech after this."

"I know," Lucas said, shrugging. "But it's the least Dominic could do as an ex-husband. Or does he expect Evelyn to grovel in gratitude?"

Nathan rolled his eyes, equal parts amused and exasperated. "That doesn’t mean you should take it for granted."

"Dominic did this willingly."

"...Why isn't your boss here?"

"Same reason yours isn't."

"Hmm."

Were Evelyn and Dominic really avoiding each other?

Time passed swiftly, seasons shifting without pause.

One morning at nine, after dropping Lily off at Willowbrook Academy, Dominic made his way to Henry's classroom.

The teacher excused herself discreetly, leaving them alone.

Henry glanced at Dominic before burying his face in his arms, ignoring him.

"Henry Thorne," Dominic said, leaning against the desk. "Let's make a deal. Today's Lily's birthday, and she wants to celebrate with you. If you agree, I'll grant you one wish."

Henry lifted his head slightly, considering. He had no interest in parties, but the offer was tempting—especially if it meant keeping Dominic away from his mother.

After a pause, Henry pulled out a notebook and pen, scribbling down terms before sliding it toward Dominic.

Dominic arched a brow at the boy's caution but signed without protest.

That evening, Evelyn arrived to pick up Henry—only to freeze in the doorway.

Her son sat in Lily's classroom, surrounded by decorations. A lavish cake, almost too beautiful to eat, sat on the side table.

"Is it... Lily's birthday?" she murmured, pulling out her phone to check the date.

Her breath caught.

If she wasn't mistaken, it was Dominic's birthday too.