Chapter 372

The moment Dominic saw Evelyn's radiant smile in the photograph, a sharp pang shot through his chest. It had been nearly five years since she last smiled at him like that - that genuine, unguarded expression he once took for granted.

At the bridal boutique, Evelyn slipped out of the wedding gown and selected a lavender cocktail dress for Sophie's upcoming ceremony.

"I'll be hitting thirty soon," Evelyn mused, smoothing the delicate fabric. "This might be my last chance to wear dresses like these before I'm officially 'too old' for them."

"Don't be ridiculous!" Sophie scoffed, adjusting her own gown. "With that face of yours, you could pass for twenty-two. Age is just a number, darling. Wear whatever makes you happy!"

"Such silver-tongued flattery! No wonder Adrian's completely smitten with you," Evelyn teased.

"Please, he's the lucky one in this relationship," Sophie retorted with a playful wink. After admiring her reflection, she added, "Now that the dresses are sorted, all that's left is the big day! Speaking of celebrations, isn't the twins' birthday coming up? Any special plans?"

"Just a quiet evening at home."

"What? No party?" Sophie's eyebrows shot up. She'd already selected extravagant gifts for her godchildren and anticipated receiving an invitation. "Not even a small gathering?"

Evelyn shook her head firmly. "I've decided against any celebrations this year."

The unspoken reason hung between them - Dominic. Evelyn had spun an elaborate lie, claiming Lily was a test-tube baby and Henry was adopted. If Dominic discovered the twins shared a birthday, his suspicions would undoubtedly be aroused.

"This is about Dominic, isn't it?" Sophie's lips pressed into a thin line. "That man simply can't take a hint! But Evelyn, do you really think you can keep this secret forever?" She lowered her voice. "Adrian knows nothing, of course. I'm just worried Dominic might start digging eventually."

The mere thought made Evelyn's temples throb. Every attempt to distance herself from Dominic only entangled them further, as if fate delighted in mocking her efforts.

"I'll protect this secret as long as necessary! Both children despise him and refuse to acknowledge him as their father."

"And can you blame them?" Sophie linked arms with Evelyn as they exited the boutique. "Dominic's arrogance is legendary. The man wouldn't know humility if it bit him. Now, let's find somewhere decadent for lunch - my treat!"

Evelyn frowned. "Shouldn't Adrian be with you today? This seems like something he'd want to be involved in."

"He's transitioning into his family's business empire," Sophie explained with a dramatic sigh. "The workload is monstrous this year. If we want that Mediterranean honeymoon in May, I need to give him space to handle things now." She squeezed Evelyn's arm. "Honestly, I see you more than I see my own fiancé these days."

"Any plans for children? You should start prenatal vitamins if you're considering it soon," Evelyn advised.

Sophie's face clouded. "You know my phobia of pain. The idea of childbirth terrifies me, so we're holding off." She glanced around nervously. "Don't breathe a word - both our parents are desperate for grandchildren!"

This surprised Evelyn. "But you adore kids!"

"I do! I worship the ground your twins walk on, but loving children and birthing them are entirely different matters." Sophie's expression turned mischievous. "I'm holding out for scientific advancements. The moment men can carry babies, Adrian's volunteering as tribute!"

Evelyn burst into laughter, the sound drawing glances from nearby shoppers.

"Have your security bring the twins downtown after school. We'll do an early birthday dinner - just us girls." Sophie's eyes sparkled. "I'll leave Adrian out of it tonight, promise."

Evelyn smiled gratefully. "Thank you, godmother."

"It's what they deserve!" Sophie's expression darkened. "This is exactly why I loathe Dominic. Those beautiful children should have a complete family, but because of one selfish bastard..."

Evelyn's smile vanished.

"No offense, darling," Sophie backtracked quickly. "The twins are clearly happy with you. I just mean... they deserve both parents."

"None taken. You're right."

The familiar guilt settled in Evelyn's chest like a stone. She often wondered if her stubborn decision to keep the children had been fair. Given the choice, would they have chosen this life?

At precisely six o'clock, Evelyn's security detail escorted the twins to Ravenshore's most exclusive restaurant, where Sophie waited with an armful of gaily wrapped presents.