Chapter 21

Dominic's lips trailed down Evelyn's collarbone with deliberate slowness.

A sharp gasp escaped her.

Her mind went blank.

Tears burned behind her eyelids. Against her will, the memories of five years ago came rushing back.

All she could hear was the ragged breathing of a stranger.

That night after giving birth flashed before her eyes. She'd been video-calling Olivia when she spotted the wealthy businessman on TV news.

A contract was a contract. It didn't matter who he was - Evelyn had no right to refuse.

Now, as Dominic forced his kiss upon her, all she could think of was that middle-aged man. Bile rose in her throat.

Dominic noticed her distraction immediately. He gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his darkened gaze. "What's wrong? Why are you crying?"

Evelyn blinked up at him dazedly.

The height difference was staggering. In her slippers, she barely reached his shoulders. To him, she must look like some pitiful, red-eyed creature.

"I was thinking Mr. Blackwood isn't what he appears to be," she whispered, struggling to keep her voice steady. "You're far worse."

She hated showing weakness. But emotions weren't logical.

Life had thrown everything at her - the good, the bad, the unspeakable.

That night five years ago topped the list of horrors.

Dominic's kiss had ripped open old wounds. His voice afterward shattered what little composure she had left.

Her strength was just a facade. Underneath, she was fragile as glass.

"Miss—" Alexander burst into the kitchen, his eyes widening at the scene.

Evelyn turned away hastily.

Dominic didn't acknowledge his son. His handsome face darkened at her words. A monster? Him?

Since when had he sunk so low?

He prided himself on self-control. Women had never been his weakness.

His phone kept ringing insistently.

Suddenly, Evelyn was free.

Dominic answered with a tone that could freeze hell.

Being so close, Evelyn heard the caller clearly.

"Dominic? Did I interrupt something?" The woman's voice was sweet but nervous. "You sound...angry."

His expression turned thunderous.

Alexander watched his father warily as Dominic snapped, "What do you want?"

"I just thought...since you left so suddenly for A City..." The woman trailed off awkwardly. Clearly making excuses.

Dominic said nothing, his attention still on Evelyn.

"I'm coming Monday," the woman continued brightly. "Starting my own business there. My parents support the idea. Maybe you could give me some advice? As a successful businessman?"

Evelyn recognized her now.

Penelope Worthington. Director Worthington's precious daughter.

"We'll discuss it when you arrive." Dominic hung up without ceremony.

Alexander stood frozen, his small frame trembling under his father's icy stare.

Isabella hovered at the doorway, too scared to enter.

Did Daddy make Miss Evelyn cry? Meanie!

Before she could wonder further, Dominic scooped her up abruptly.

"Big bro—" she called over his shoulder.

Alexander glanced between Evelyn and his furious father. His heart pounded.

"I'll visit again, Miss Evelyn," he promised before following.

Dominic didn't bother helping Isabella with her shoes. He simply carried her out.

Alexander scrambled after them.

In the Range Rover, Alexander muttered, "That was too much, Dad."

Isabella sulked in her car seat.

Dominic started the engine silently, his expression unreadable.

Father and son wore matching scowls.

—

"Evelyn, my parents want to buy you and Nathan a house after the wedding. Any preferences? They've saved up. I'd suggest somewhere central—easier commute."

After Dominic left, Olivia called.

"A house?" Evelyn found this moving too fast.

They talked briefly before Olivia, sensing her distress, urged her to rest.

Instead, Evelyn cleaned.

As she tidied, she spotted a tiny pair of fox-shaped shoes.

Isabella's.

Her father had carried her off barefoot.

Evelyn sighed. Barely started working and already clashing with the boss.

Whose fault was it? She didn't know.

She'd probably be fired soon. Or should resign.

The balcony ashtray caught her eye next. Normally unused, today it held two fresh cigarette butts.

She cleaned meticulously until not a speck remained.

Then she saw them.

The black lace bra and matching panties she'd hung to dry yesterday.

Normally, no one saw her laundry. The tiny apartment left no choice.

But now...

The thought of Dominic seeing—perhaps examining—her intimate wear made her skin prickle with discomfort.