Chapter 344

The Blackwood family had strict traditions. Reginald Blackwood insisted on monthly family breakfasts.

Every 15th of the month, without exception, the entire household gathered at dawn. No excuses were tolerated.

Today's gathering held extra significance. Dominic planned to introduce Evelyn as his future wife.

It was his silent challenge to those who opposed their relationship.

The dining table gleamed with silver platters of breakfast delicacies. Each dish catered to different preferences.

Lightly seasoned meats, fresh pastries, and exotic fruits adorned the table like a festive banquet.

Reginald sat at the head, his stern expression commanding respect. Age hadn't diminished his authority.

Margaret Lockwood and her son Julian occupied his right side. Beatrice Lockwood and Dominic sat to his left.

Both women wore designer outfits dripping with jewelry, their rivalry evident even in morning attire.

Dominic remained silent but exuded power. His intense gaze remained fixed on the staircase.

Julian lounged casually, his similar Blackwood features contrasting with his playboy demeanor.

An uncomfortable silence settled over the table.

Beatrice finally snapped. "Where is that Evelyn? Making her elders wait! No manners at all from that common girl."

"Look who's talking," Margaret sneered. "Your taste in women explains your son's poor judgment."

"Enough!" Reginald's sharp command silenced them instantly.

The women had bickered for decades. Even after Edmund's death, their feud continued unabated.

Reginald knew their true motives. Margaret clung to her T Corporation shares through Julian.

Beatrice feared losing Dominic's financial support if she remarried. Her lavish lifestyle depended on it.

"Dominic," Reginald ordered, "fetch Evelyn."

Dominic rose. "Yes, Grandfather."

At that moment, Evelyn descended the grand staircase with the twins. Their presence bolstered her confidence.

Though nervous, she held her head high. Her grip tightened slightly on the children's hands.

She hadn't realized the entire family waited for her.

Only Julian offered a welcoming smile. The others' hostile stares thickened the air.

Dominic guided Evelyn to sit beside him. The children greeted their great-grandfather politely.

"Good morning, Mr. Blackwood," Evelyn said softly.

Reginald responded with a cold grunt, turning away.

Evelyn's heart sank. The man who once doted on her now rejected her openly.

She turned to Margaret. "Aunt Margaret?"

Margaret responded with a disdainful smirk.

Julian broke the tension with a chuckle. "No introductions needed, sis. Never thought my confirmed bachelor brother would settle down first!"

Evelyn smiled gratefully. At least one Blackwood accepted her.

Then she faced Beatrice. The woman's undisguised contempt made words stick in Evelyn's throat.

Memories of Beatrice's cruelty surfaced. Yet this woman was Dominic's mother - the man she loved.