Chapter 289

"I'll still be happy! My ex and I remain close friends!"

Evelyn was at a loss for words.

"Evelyn, you never know. They might actually tie the knot," Sophie continued excitedly. "Eleanor adores Zoe. And Dominic... well, he's finally come to his senses. Adrian and I were just saying that if Sophia's second surgery succeeds before New Year's, he'll surely propose to Zoe."

Evelyn maintained her composure. "I wish them every happiness."

"You need to think about your future too!" Sophie's voice softened with concern. "You're still young. Clara can help with the twins, and they're already in school. You've got your whole life ahead of you."

"I'm perfectly content," Evelyn smiled. "Stop looking at me like I'm some tragic figure. Being single isn't a crime, is it?"

"You're overthinking this," Sophie huffed. "You just need something to occupy your time. Why don't you be my bridesmaid?!"

"I have two children. Who chooses a divorced mother as bridesmaid?"

"Who made that ridiculous rule?" Sophie declared. "I'll have whoever I want in my wedding party! This works perfectly - your kids can be our page boy and flower girl."

Evelyn didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

Her phone rang suddenly. Seeing Officer Bradford's name, she answered immediately.

"Miss Thorne, Sebastian Whitmore has decided to appeal. The Supreme Court just scheduled the hearing for next year. You can enjoy your New Year's in peace."

"Thank you for letting me know."

"Don't worry. This appeal is just a desperate attempt. The verdict won't change."

"I have full confidence in our justice system," Evelyn replied.

That evening, Evelyn returned home laden with shopping bags.

The moment she stepped inside, two energetic children came bounding toward her, grabbing the bags eagerly.

"Mommy! What did you buy? Next time you go shopping with Aunt Sophie, can I come?" Lily was already on winter break.

"It's freezing outside, sweetheart. You'd turn into an icicle." Evelyn ruffled her daughter's hair.

"I won't! I'll wear my fluffy hat and the unicorn mask!" Lily protested while unpacking the new clothes. Gradually, her disappointment melted into delight.

Clara approached quietly. "Your Uncle Ronald wants us to visit for New Year's. If you'd rather not go, I'll go alone."

"Let me check with Mike about his Bridgedale plans."

"I already asked. He's staying here. He doesn't celebrate New Year's in Bridgedale," Clara explained.

"Then you should go see Uncle Ronald. Would you like to take the children?"

Clara shook her head firmly. "I won't be taking them. Those relatives only reached out because they know you're doing well now. When I was abroad, not one of them contacted me. They didn't even tell me when your grandmother passed."

"Why don't you just stay here then?" Evelyn's heart ached at her mother's sadness.

"I must go. I need to visit your grandmother's grave."

Evelyn embraced her mother tightly. "Please take care of yourself, Mom. If anything happens to you, I'll have no close family left."

"What nonsense! You'll always have your children!"

"It's not the same. I can be silly with you. I have to be responsible with them." Evelyn took a shuddering breath.

After dinner, the children played in the living room with Mike while Evelyn scrolled through her phone. A news notification popped up: [Dominic Blackwood, President of Blackwood Group, Purchases Extravagant Engagement Ring for Girlfriend!]

The accompanying paparazzi photo clearly showed Dominic's profile. Beside him, Zoe beamed while displaying a dazzling ring on her finger.