Chapter 353

Evelyn was lost in thoughts of her children's laughter when Abigail suddenly tapped her shoulder.

"Look at that dreamy smile. Were you chatting with Dominic earlier? The way your eyes softened—I'm positively green with envy!"

At nearly thirty, Abigail remained stubbornly single. Evelyn suspected some past heartbreak kept her from dating, though countless suitors had tried their luck.

What Evelyn didn't know was Abigail's initial ulterior motives in befriending her. But as they grew closer, Abigail discovered Evelyn's genuine charm and remarkable design talent, transforming their relationship into true friendship.

"It wasn't him. I was talking to Alexander and Isabella."

Evelyn had always admired Abigail's carefree spirit. Not only was she kind-hearted, but she'd also helped Evelyn during tough times at work.

She remembered her lonely early days at the company—ostracized by colleagues with only Olivia as her friend. Abigail's friendship had made the office bearable.

Their cheerful chatter continued as they walked down the hallway.

Turning the corner, they nearly collided with Geoffrey Winslow and Miranda Caldwell.

Geoffrey looked every inch the polished gentleman as usual.

Miranda, however, appeared disheveled—hair mussed, cheeks flushed, lips suspiciously swollen.

Miranda's eyes widened in panic at their sudden appearance.

Abigail flashed a tight smile, greeted them briefly, and quickly pulled Evelyn away.

Some things were better left unacknowledged.

Confused, Evelyn allowed herself to be steered toward the elevators.

Once out of earshot, Evelyn frowned. "Wasn't that rude? We barely greeted them."

Abigail rolled her eyes. "Trust me, you don't want to get involved. I caught Geoffrey pinning Miranda against the bathroom sink earlier—her underwear around her knees. And he's a married father of two!"

Evelyn gasped. "An affair? That's despicable."

Abigail nodded knowingly. "Welcome to corporate politics. Why do you think Miranda became department head so young? She's sleeping her way up. Stay clear of that mess."

"Understood. Thanks for looking out for me." Evelyn appreciated the warning.

Between work and family, she had no time for office drama anyway. Her focus remained on doing her job well—others' personal lives weren't her concern.

Later that evening, Dominic drove their family to Blue Honors—a Mallory Corporation property and A City's architectural crown jewel.

The lakeside luxury complex blended recreation, entertainment, and fine dining in one breathtaking package.

Dominic had personally designed its striking blue-stone exterior adorned with glass panels offering panoramic lake views.

Despite the winter chill, lush plants thrived indoors. The private dining rooms featured hand-carved hardwood furnishings—a perfect marriage of modern and classical aesthetics.

Holding the twins' hands, Evelyn admired the space. "I've studied Blue Honors in architecture school. Being here is incredible—and knowing you designed it makes me so proud."

As a design student, she'd only dreamed of visiting this exclusive venue reserved for society's elite.

The intricate details surpassed her expectations. Having the brilliant architect as her partner filled her with pride.

"Mommy, Daddy's always amazing! He's just too busy to eat with us usually," Alexander mumbled, squeezing Evelyn's hand.

Isabella pouted. "When we ask for family dinners, he says we're big kids now. Hmph! Only since Mommy came back does he make time..."

Kneeling to their level, Evelyn hugged them. "Daddy works hard to give us this comfortable life. Let's be understanding, okay?"

The twins nodded solemnly.

Dominic's expression softened watching Evelyn comfort their children.

Her gentle presence soothed him like no other—her warm smile, kind eyes, and quiet grace making her seem carved from precious jade.

This was why she'd remained in his heart all these years.

Their moment was interrupted by Miranda Lockwood approaching on Maxwell's arm, trailed by an entourage of young socialites.

Maxwell's eyes widened upon spotting Evelyn. Instinctively, he tried to shake Miranda off...