Chapter 43
Why was Dominic inquiring about art exhibitions and symphony performances?
What could have caused such a dramatic shift in preferences?
"Choose something that would appeal to a woman in her early twenties," Dominic instructed.
Nathan finally pieced together what this was all about.
"Certainly, sir. I'll forward the tickets once they're confirmed."
Dominic was conspicuously absent from Blackwood Group headquarters the following morning.
Lucas and Nathan took advantage of his absence to speculate about their enigmatic boss.
"Mr. Blackwood might as well have spelled it out - he clearly wants to take Evelyn out," Nathan chuckled. "I wonder what transpired between them. This development is happening much faster than anticipated. Weren't they supposed to be finalizing their divorce?"
Lucas considered the situation carefully before responding, "My guess? They slept together. Dominic may be ruthless, but after experiencing Evelyn, I'd wager even his legendary self-control couldn't resist her, regardless of how much he claims to despise her."
"Bianca would have a complete meltdown if she found out," Nathan remarked.
"Don't breathe a word to her. She's been drowning her sorrows in alcohol every night, hoping Dominic would take pity on her..." Lucas sighed. "Who would have imagined she'd lose out to Evelyn Thorne of all people."
"Life works in mysterious ways. I'm curious why Mr. Blackwood cleared his entire schedule today," Nathan mused.
"Best not to pry into his personal affairs," Lucas cautioned.
Nathan shook his head emphatically. "Wouldn't dream of it."
That afternoon, Ravenswood University was hosting a lecture by world-renowned neurologist Sebastian Whitmore.
Evelyn arrived at the auditorium early to secure a prime seat.
The presentation ran from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
As soon as the lecture concluded, Evelyn made a beeline for the exit.
She held Professor Whitmore in the highest regard and wanted to seize this rare opportunity to consult him on a pressing question.
She trailed the professor's entourage all the way to the administration building, where her attention was caught by a sleek black luxury sedan parked prominently at the entrance.
Such high-end vehicles were uncommon sights on campus at any time.
What gave her pause was that it appeared identical to Dominic's personal car.
Unfortunately, she couldn't recall his license plate number to confirm whether it was actually his.
"What possible reason would he have to be here?" Evelyn muttered under her breath before entering the building.
As she approached the Dean's office, Evelyn spotted a familiar figure standing guard outside - unmistakably one of Dominic's security detail.
Her breath caught.
Did this mean the car outside really was Dominic's?
What business could he possibly have here?
Why would the CEO of Blackwood Group visit the medical school?
Evelyn's curiosity got the better of her, and she marched straight toward the office entrance.
"Miss Thorne?"
The bodyguard recognized her immediately and moved to intercept.
"What brings you here?" he inquired.
"I should be asking you that question. This is my university. Is Dominic inside?"
She deftly sidestepped the guard's attempt to block her and peered into the room.
Three figures occupied the space: Professor Whitmore, his assistant, and Dominic. Was Dominic here to consult the professor? For what purpose? Was he ill?