Chapter 356

The plush private room was silent except for the soft purring coming from the snow-white fur carpet.

A purebred Persian cat lay curled up, its silky coat blending seamlessly with the luxurious carpet beneath.

Evelyn didn't spot the sleeping feline at first. Her stiletto nearly crushed the cat's tail, startling the creature awake.

With a sudden hiss, the cat arched its back and bared its claws at Evelyn, making her gasp in shock.

She stumbled backward, losing her footing. Dominic's strong arms caught her just before she hit the floor.

"Are you hurt?" Dominic growled, pulling Evelyn close while glaring at the offending animal.

The Persian cat remained unfazed by the intimidating billionaire's glare.

It shook its luxurious coat and stared at the family with piercing blue eyes, carrying itself like royalty.

Isabella immediately fell under the cat's spell.

"Mommy! Look how beautiful!" She dropped to her knees, gently stroking the soft fur. The cat responded with contented purrs.

"That's a Persian cat, just like in my picture books!" Alexander exclaimed, joining his sister to pet the creature.

The Blackwood estate had always forbidden pets under Reginald Blackwood's strict rules. The twins, naturally drawn to the adorable animal, began playing enthusiastically.

Evelyn watched the scene with amusement until a sharp pain shot through her left ankle.

"Stay still!" Dominic commanded when he heard her sharp intake of breath.

He guided her to a chair, carefully removing her shoe and stocking. His brows furrowed at the visible swelling. A gentle touch made Evelyn wince.

"Just a minor sprain," he reassured her.

"Dad, Mom, can we take this cat home?" Alexander asked with unusual seriousness for a six-year-old.

The boy's attachment surprised even his sister. Seeing no owner around, he'd already imagined the cat as his new pet.

"We can't do that," Evelyn said firmly before Dominic could respond. "This belongs to someone. Taking it would be stealing. But if you both want a cat, we'll get you one."

"But Great-Grandpa—"

"We'll keep it at the penthouse," Evelyn interrupted with a wink, ruffling his hair.

"Mommy's the best!" Alexander cheered, tugging his sister's arm. "We're getting our own cat!"

Isabella kissed the Persian's head. "I'm happy, but I really want this one..."

As if understanding, the cat suddenly leaped from her arms into those of a young waitress.

The woman couldn't have been older than twenty, her beauty evident despite the uniform. Long lashes framed expressive eyes that seemed familiar to Evelyn.

"Forgive the disturbance," the waitress stammered, avoiding Dominic's gaze. "My cat escaped its cage. Madam, I'll cover any medical expenses..."

Evelyn smiled warmly. "No need. I should apologize for startling your cat."

The waitress—Scarlett Fairchild—looked relieved at Evelyn's kindness. Her graceful demeanor shone through the uniform.

"May we play with your cat a little longer?" the twins pleaded.

After a brief hesitation, Scarlett relented. "Return it to the service office before you leave. Just ask for Scarlett Fairchild."

Evelyn nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Ms. Fairchild. We'll take good care of her."

Hidden among the trees, Lillian Prescott's hands trembled when she heard the name.

"Scarlett Fairchild?" she whispered in disbelief. "What's she doing here?"