Chapter 380

"Mommy, the nurse let Henry go first because I was scared of the needle," Lily explained with wide, innocent eyes. "He wanted to show me it wouldn't hurt. Henry did this just for me! He loves me so much!"

Evelyn's heart swelled as she listened to her daughter's words. She pulled both children into a warm embrace. "My sweet angels, you make Mommy prouder every single day with your kindness."

"Mom, we love you too!" Lily giggled, her joyful expression mirroring her brother's.

Their bodyguard shifted awkwardly nearby before clearing his throat. "Miss Thorne, shall I prepare dinner tonight?"

Evelyn hesitated. "Wouldn't that be too much trouble?"

"Not at all," he assured her, already moving toward the kitchen.

Lily tugged at Evelyn's sleeve excitedly. "Uncle makes the best spicy wings! He promised them for tonight." Her expression suddenly turned curious. "Why didn't Uncle Michael come home with you?"

Evelyn's fingers twitched involuntarily. "He had... other business to attend to."

Dominic had turned off her phone again. She could only imagine Michael's panic when he couldn't reach her. Quickly retrieving her phone from her purse, she powered it on and immediately returned Michael's missed calls.

"Avery— I mean, Evelyn!" Michael's frantic voice came through the line. "For heaven's sake, warn me next time Dominic whisks you away! Do you have any idea how worried I was?"

Heat rose to Evelyn's cheeks. "About that fight with Nathan earlier—"

"You saw that?" Michael huffed. "I simply asked if Dominic invested in Margaret's company. That stone-faced assistant of his told me to mind my own business! Said his boss knows what he's doing whether he funds Wonder Tech or not. That arrogant tone—"

"Was it really worth arguing about?" Evelyn glanced toward the kitchen. "Are you coming home for dinner?"

"Got plans already," Michael deflected. "Shame you missed Margaret's speech today though. Claimed she founded her company purely to help the poor!" His mocking laughter echoed through the phone. "As if anyone believes that. Might as well tattoo 'I want money' on her forehead!"

Evelyn listened calmly to Michael's rant. Since returning home, she'd come to a realization. She couldn't control Margaret's actions—only strengthen her own company. When the time came, she'd be ready to strike decisively.

"Don't drink too much tonight," she cautioned. "And call a cab if you do. I've got a headache and won't be able to pick you up."

"Headache? Is it Margaret or Dominic causing trouble again?" Concern laced Michael's voice.

"Neither. Just my own thoughts." She kept her tone light. "I should get back to the children."

"I'll come home early tonight," Michael promised before ending the call.

At precisely eight o'clock, a sleek black Rolls-Royce glided into Mooncrest Manor's driveway. Dominic emerged, his tailored suit accentuating his imposing frame.

Zoe Montgomery waited in the foyer, her posture composed. "Dominic, I came to check on Sophia's progress," she said smoothly. "Her recovery is remarkable, as you've surely noticed. Also, I'll be vacating the Montgomery estate in a few days."

"You're welcome to stay," Dominic offered.

Zoe shook her head firmly. "It wouldn't be proper. I'll find an apartment nearby to continue Sophia's treatments." She added pointedly, "Somewhere appropriate where I won't overstay my welcome."

Dominic studied her with newfound interest. Zoe's determination reminded him sharply of Evelyn—that same unyielding resolve when she'd ended their relationship. The memory sent a chill through him, his expression hardening imperceptibly.