Chapter 343

Forget the engagement.

Zoe Montgomery had long prepared for this moment when Dominic would end things and send her away from the Blackwood estate.

Even if he couldn't love her, she knew he'd compensate her handsomely.

The financial settlement would soften the blow considerably.

When the sleek black Rolls-Royce pulled up to the grand entrance, Eleanor Blackwood turned to Zoe. "Dominic's home! I'll make him explain himself immediately!"

Zoe remained seated on the velvet sofa, her posture rigid.

Her heart lay in shattered pieces.

How could Dominic confess his lingering feelings for Evelyn Thorne on their engagement day?

Not only did he not love Zoe, he'd shown her utter disrespect.

All this despite her being Sophia's physician, having performed two critical surgeries.

Without that professional connection, she doubted he'd even acknowledge her existence.

Dominic stepped out of the vehicle and strode into the marble foyer.

"Mother," he greeted Eleanor with a curt nod.

"Are you alright, darling?" Eleanor grasped her son's arm, scanning him with maternal concern.

"I'm fine," Dominic replied tersely, guiding his mother inside.

His piercing gaze then fell upon Zoe's stony expression.

"I'll leave you two to talk," Eleanor announced. "Remember, Dominic, we owe Zoe answers. Proper explanations are due."

Dominic gave a tight nod.

Soon, the expansive living room held only Dominic and Zoe in tense silence.

"I apologize, Zoe," Dominic stated bluntly, standing near the mahogany coffee table. "I can't continue this charade."

"I understand," Zoe responded flatly.

"I'll compensate you generously for treating Sophia's condition. If you don't accept..."

Dominic's tone left no room for negotiation.

He didn't need to finish the sentence - Zoe grasped his meaning perfectly.

"I accept. The amount is at your discretion," Zoe forced a brittle smile. "This is my fault really. I overreached. Clearly I'm not Blackwood material. The money will suffice."

"Don't diminish yourself, Zoe. You'll find someone worthy. That person simply isn't me."

"Evidently," Zoe swallowed hard and stood abruptly. "I'll pack my things immediately."

"Wait." Dominic's eyes flickered to her pronounced baby bump. "Given your condition, you should remain here temporarily. We'll decide arrangements after the birth."

Zoe glanced down at her swollen abdomen, then offered a sardonic smile. "How generous."

Without another word, she turned and fled to her suite.

Eleanor reentered moments later, disapproval etched across her aristocratic features.

"How could you treat Zoe so callously? What sudden revelation prompted this change of heart?"

Dominic guided his mother to the sofa. "I'll secure a superior specialist for Sophia. You needn't concern yourself further."

"You've found someone more qualified than Zoe?"

Dominic's jaw tightened. "I will."

"Very well... I appreciate your dedication to Sophia all these years. Since you've no affection for Zoe, I won't force the matter. However, the physicians confirm her pregnancy progresses perfectly. We must keep this child," Eleanor insisted.

A shadow crossed Dominic's face.

Were it not for Zoe's delicate health making termination inadvisable, he'd never have consented to this pregnancy.

Beyond that crucial factor, his lack of love for Zoe extended to their unborn child.

This child's existence was destined for tragedy.

The shrill ring of Dominic's phone shattered the heavy silence.

He answered abruptly.

"Sir, we've located Eric Montclair!" The urgent voice crackled through the receiver.

Dominic's eyes flashed with sudden intensity. He bolted upright and stormed toward the exit without another word.