Chapter 373

Sophie and Evelyn were seated by the window, enjoying the view outside.

"Mom!" Lily ran toward Evelyn, dragging her brother along by the hand.

Evelyn scooped them both up and settled them onto the couch. "Did you have a good day at preschool?"

Lily shook her head, her big eyes wide with worry. "Mom, the teacher said we have to get our fingers pricked next week... I don't want to!"

"It's just a blood sugar test," Henry explained matter-of-factly.

Understanding dawned on Evelyn's face, and she pulled Lily into a reassuring hug. "Sweetheart, it'll only hurt for a second. Like a tiny pinch."

Lily's gaze immediately darted to the cake on the table, her fear forgotten.

"Mom, whose birthday is it? Is it Aunt Sophie's?"

Sophie chuckled and shook her head. "We're celebrating yours and Henry's birthday early! Surprise!" She pulled out two exquisitely wrapped gifts and handed them to the children.

"Really?" Lily gasped, clutching her present with excitement. "Thank you, Aunt Sophie! I love you!"

"Love you too, sweetie," Sophie said, ruffling Lily's hair.

Evelyn nudged Henry, who reluctantly took his gift, cheeks pink. "Thanks," he mumbled.

"Go on, open them! If you don't like them, I can exchange them," Sophie encouraged, demonstrating how to untie the ribbon. "Just pull this, and—voilà!"

Within moments, the gifts were unwrapped. Lily squealed in delight at the delicate doll crafted in her likeness.

"Look, it's me! I love it!" She hugged the doll and planted a kiss on its cheek.

Henry's gift was similar—a finely made doll resembling him. He studied it quietly, neither thrilled nor disappointed.

Just then, the waiter arrived with their food. Once everything was served, Evelyn placed birthday hats on the children's heads.

"We'll keep it simple this year, but I promise to throw you a proper party when I can," Evelyn said.

"Mom, we don't need a party as long as you're here!" Lily beamed. Then her smile faltered. "I just wish Grandma was still here... She promised to bake us a chocolate cake before she..."

Evelyn's expression froze.

Sophie quickly intervened. "Who wants cake? Let's cut it!"

"We have to make a wish first, Aunt Sophie!" Lily insisted, grabbing the candles. "We need to light them and sing!"

Meanwhile, at the restaurant entrance, a tall, imposing figure stood motionless.

Dominic Blackwood's piercing gaze locked onto Evelyn's familiar face before shifting to the children—Lily and Henry.

Noticing the birthday hats, realization struck him. Today's their birthday?

"Mr. Blackwood, your table is ready," his associate said respectfully.

Ignoring the man, Dominic strode purposefully toward Evelyn. Confused, his entourage trailed behind, unsure of what was happening.