Chapter 333
The woman standing beside Dominic was breathtaking.
Evelyn wore an amethyst evening gown that swayed like blooming wisteria with her every movement. Her crescent-shaped eyes sparkled like constellations when she smiled.
Genevieve had encountered countless remarkable women, but this young lady stirred an inexplicable sense of familiarity within her. What startled Genevieve most was how the girl's features bore striking resemblance to her own youthful appearance...
When Evelyn met Genevieve's gaze, she too felt an odd connection with the poised middle-aged woman.
Genevieve's gentle demeanor and carefully curated party attire concealed her true age. Guests unanimously perceived her as both aristocratic and approachable.
"Welcome to Mr. Prescott's seventieth birthday celebration." Genevieve greeted the couple warmly, though her smile faltered when noticing Dominic's companion.
Initially charmed by Evelyn's familiar aura, Genevieve's maternal instincts surged upon recognizing Dominic. The towering businessman possessed an aura more commanding in person than any magazine could capture. Lillian had excellent taste, but...
"Mrs. Prescott." Dominic inclined his head respectfully.
Genevieve studied him like a prospective son-in-law. 'Such an impressive young man,' she thought, 'but why bring another woman to this occasion? Surely he knows Lillian's feelings?'
Her initial warmth toward Evelyn chilled instantly. After losing her biological daughter decades ago, Lillian had been her saving grace. No one would come between her adopted child and happiness.
Evelyn's intuition prickled at Genevieve's sudden frostiness. Why would this elegant stranger regard her with such hostility?
Dominic remained oblivious. With a gift box in one hand and Evelyn's fingers entwined in his other, he exchanged pleasantries with Jonathan before approaching the guest of honor.
Christopher Prescott sipped tea amidst a mountain of presents - mostly health supplements and regional delicacies. The retired statesman's reputation for integrity was legendary. When a corrupt official once attempted bribery disguised as a gift, Christopher had personally ensured the man's imprisonment.
This unshakable moral compass earned Dominic's profound respect. He added his contribution to the pile. "Happy birthday, sir. I brought specialty cakes from Paris - your favorite."
Christopher's laughter boomed. "Dominic, you spoil me! Imported desserts for an old man?"
The elder statesman knew Dominic well as Reginald Blackwood's grandson. Though political differences had estranged their families, Christopher admired how Dominic had expanded T Corporation globally, revitalizing A City's economy.
His gaze shifted curiously to Evelyn. "And who's this lovely companion?"
Strangely, Christopher felt an immediate fondness for her - more than he'd ever felt toward his own granddaughter.
Across the room, Lillian's gaze burned into Dominic. Dressed formally, he looked devastatingly handsome. Her infatuation blinded her to all else...
Dominic squeezed Evelyn's nervous hand. "Sir, this is Evelyn Sinclair. My fiancée."
The declaration rang clear through the hall. Evelyn's heart hammered against her ribs as Dominic's adoring gaze set her pulse racing. He'd publicly claimed their relationship!
Lillian's entire body convulsed. Her lovesick expression twisted into something venomous. White-hot jealousy licked through her veins.
How dare this nobody - this orphan with a dead father and imprisoned relatives - steal her destined man?