Chapter 326

"The outcome is exactly as planned. If Maxwell refuses to sign the divorce papers, not just his family's fortune will collapse - he'll be wearing prison stripes again." Dominic brushed his lips against Evelyn's nose, his gaze softening as he studied her face.

"Prison? How?" Evelyn's brows knitted in confusion.

She had no idea Dominic had compiled an entire dossier of Maxwell's illegal activities to force the divorce through.

Dominic preferred keeping her in the dark. Innocence suited her better.

He'd be her shield against life's ugliness.

The intensity in his dark eyes sent Evelyn's pulse racing uncontrollably. She instinctively raised her hands to cover her face.

This man was dangerous. A single look could make her heart stutter like a trapped bird.

Dominic peeled her hands away, leaning closer until his breath warmed her lips. "Still shy after everything, darling?"

That impossibly handsome face held a magnetic pull that left Evelyn's mouth dry.

Before she could respond, strong arms lifted her effortlessly, carrying her into the adjoining room.

Dominic's office suite included a full living space - bedroom, bath, study, and entertainment rooms for his marathon work sessions.

The contemporary design screamed luxury, a self-contained penthouse within the corporate tower.

Evelyn realized their destination when Dominic kicked the bedroom door shut behind them.

He moved like a starved predator, stripping away her clothes with practiced efficiency.

Dark eyes glowed with primal hunger.

Evelyn scrambled for the duvet, attempting to cover herself, but Dominic pinned her beneath him before she could retreat.

A devilish smirk played on his lips as he whispered, "Relax, sweetheart. I'll be gentle this time..."

Heat flooded Evelyn's face and neck.

Those were the same empty promises he'd made last night before reducing her to a trembling, sore mess.

She wasn't falling for that again.

Dominic nuzzled her throat, scattering feather-light kisses along her jawline. "I mean it this time," he rasped. "No pain. Just pleasure."

Against her better judgment, Evelyn found herself melting under his skilled attention.

To Dominic, every inch of Evelyn was a masterpiece. Even the dust motes dancing in the afternoon light seemed to hold their breath, bearing witness to their passion.

Later, as they dressed, Dominic pulled Evelyn close, nipping at her earlobe. "Come to the gala with me tonight."

If she was entering his world, their public debut couldn't wait.

Evelyn hesitated. "But I've never attended high-society events. What if I—"

Her insecurities still lingered.

Dominic's galas would be crawling with socialites. Her lack of experience terrified her.

"Relax. I'll be your anchor." He pressed a platinum card into her palm. "Take Abigail shopping after work. Buy something stunning."

"My black card still has plenty of credit. I'll use that." Evelyn tried returning the new card. Her salary covered essentials - taking his money felt wrong.

Dominic tsked, tapping her nose. "Stubborn girl. You're going to be my wife. Start acting like it."

Flushing, Evelyn straightened her blouse and fled back to the design department.

At her desk, memories of Dominic's tenderness made her lips curve unconsciously.

Abigail nudged her. "Earth to Evelyn. That's some daydream you're having."

Evelyn startled. "It's nothing."

Abigail waggled her eyebrows. "Liar."

"Focus on your sketches!" Evelyn tossed a pen at her friend, feigning annoyance.

After hours, as employees streamed out of T Corporation, Evelyn recruited Abigail for emergency dress shopping.

Decision-making wasn't her forte. Abigail's fashion sense would prove invaluable.

Luckily, Abigail had no evening plans and agreed immediately.

As Abigail parked at A City's premier mall, Evelyn spotted Maxwell's car nearby.

He leaned against the hood, a petite brunette draped over his arm.

The girl couldn't be older than twenty-two, dripping in designer labels and attitude. Diamond studs marched up her ears, a gem glittering in her nose.

Abigail squeezed Evelyn's shoulder. "I'll wait by the entrance."

Maxwell stiffened upon seeing Evelyn. He shoved the girl away. "This is my cousin Miranda, just back from Paris—"

"What a coincidence! Your cousin's lovely," Evelyn said sincerely.

Maxwell's stomach dropped.

No jealousy. No hurt. Just polite indifference. The realization cut deeper than any anger.

"Evelyn..." He grasped for words.

Miranda pushed forward, fingering Evelyn's scarf. "A real Hermès? These retail for six figures overseas! Where'd you get this knockoff?" Her laugh rang false.