Chapter 367

The city lights painted the night in vibrant hues. Soft amber glow from street lamps seeped through the Bentley's windows, warming the interior.

In the backseat, the twins slept peacefully beneath a lightweight blanket.

Dominic gripped the steering wheel while Evelyn sat beside him, lost in thought. Her chin rested on her palm as she absently watched illuminated billboards flash by.

"Does it still hurt?" Dominic's right hand left the wheel to trace the bandage on Evelyn's neck. His fingers lingered before intertwining with hers, transferring silent strength.

Evelyn met his concerned gaze. "I was just thinking how strange everything was today." She shook her head slightly. "Even if Lillian's assistant disliked cats, why infect one with bacteria? That girl seemed so timid—not the type for such cruelty. And Lillian herself...there's something off about her."

Dominic's dark eyes reflected Evelyn's pensive expression. He knew Lillian was likely behind it all but chose not to voice his suspicions. No need to burden Evelyn further.

His hand moved to tousle her hair. "Stay away from that woman. If you must interact, keep your guard up. Don't fall for her schemes."

Evelyn hummed in agreement. Though she'd only met Lillian a handful of times, her instincts screamed warning. That woman wanted Dominic—of course she'd be dangerous.

The next morning found Evelyn at work with her bandaged neck.

Abigail pounced immediately. "What happened? Did our beast of a boss get too enthusiastic last night?" She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively. "Had to cover the evidence?"

Evelyn rolled her eyes at Abigail's wild imagination. "A cat scratched me. That's all."

"Oh please," Abigail scoffed. "As if Mr. Blackwood would ever let you get hurt. The man worships the ground you walk on!" She leaned in conspiratorially. "Though how does an adult get scratched by a cat? You're usually so careful."

"It went berserk unexpectedly." Evelyn powered up her computer. "Could you send me the VIVI Group collaboration updates?"

"On it!"

Despite Vivienne Laurent's continued coldness, Evelyn had adapted to Yvonne Blackwell's demanding leadership. While Yvonne kept her at arm's length, Malcolm Whitmore from Design Team Two proved an excellent mentor.

She'd learned to avoid Geoffrey Winslow and Miranda Caldwell entirely—Abigail's warnings had been clear.

As Evelyn worked, Bernadette Worthing strutted in, hips swaying. Her plunging neckline and micro-miniskirt left little to imagination. A cloud of perfume preceded her.

Bernadette's eyes gleamed maliciously at Evelyn's bandage. "My, my. Who'd you anger this time? Such dedication—injured yet still working!" Her voice dripped false admiration.

Evelyn ignored her completely, fingers flying across the keyboard.

Bernadette's smile turned icy. Just wait until Ms. Laurent returns, you little nobody. You'll be crying then!

Her stomach twisted. Two months of daily updates to Vivienne with no recall from Western Europe. What if Vivienne didn't care about Dominic marrying Evelyn? The thought terrified her.

Meanwhile at Regal Capital...

Olivia Kensington shuffled outside in pajamas, sleepily carrying trash to the dumpster.

A white luxury car caught her eye. Two black-clad bodyguards emerged, opening the door for Preston Worthington Jr.

Her blood ran cold.

When Preston blocked her path, hatred surged like wildfire. She longed to carve him to pieces.

"Pregnant." Preston's icy gaze dropped to her still-flat stomach.

Olivia instinctively shielded her abdomen. "I'm not!"

He tossed hospital documents at her. "That clinic belongs to my family. Did you really think I wouldn't find out?" His jaw clenched. "You're terminating it."

Olivia's face paled. "This baby is mine! You have no—"

"I won't have my heir living in squalor." Preston's voice turned deadly. "Take her."

Olivia fought like a wildcat, hurling curses as the bodyguards forced her into the car.

From her window, Tabitha watched the scene unfold with glee. She didn't lift a finger to help. Birds of a feather indeed. Serves her right!