Chapter 412

Dominic was engaged in conversation with Jonathan, but his attention never strayed far from Evelyn. He noticed her growing discomfort immediately.

Cutting the discussion short, he strode toward her with purposeful steps. His custom-tailored suit accentuated his commanding presence.

Lillian's breath caught when she saw him approaching. No man had ever looked so devastatingly handsome in formal wear.

Dominic's arm slid possessively around Evelyn's waist as he pressed a kiss to her forehead. "What's wrong?" he murmured.

Evelyn felt immediate relief, like a ship finding safe harbor in a storm. "I wasn't feeling well," she admitted quietly. "Ms. Prescott offered me medication. I'd rather not take it..."

She carefully omitted Lillian's aggressive insistence, mindful of their hosts. Business relationships mattered more than personal grievances.

Dominic's gaze turned glacial as it shifted to Lillian. "Are you medically qualified, Ms. Prescott? Would you take responsibility if Evelyn's condition worsened?"

Lillian couldn't meet his piercing stare. "I...I only wanted to help," she stammered. "My apologies. It was thoughtless of me."

Her calculated display of remorse made others perceive Dominic and Evelyn as unreasonable.

Evelyn intervened gently. "It's alright. Ms. Prescott meant well. Let's leave it at that."

Dominic remained silent, steering Evelyn away without another glance at Lillian.

Lillian stood frozen, the sting of rejection lingering.

Dominic had no desire to prolong their stay. After exchanging pleasantries with the Prescotts, he announced their departure. "My father expects us for New Year's Eve dinner."

Jonathan nodded, disappointment flashing across his features. His matchmaking hopes for Dominic and Lillian had clearly failed.

Genevieve clasped Evelyn's hands warmly. "Your designs are exquisite, dear. My father-in-law would love to meet you. Please visit again soon!"

Evelyn smiled graciously. "Of course, Mrs. Prescott. You have my contact details. I'm at your disposal."

As the striking couple departed, Genevieve sighed. "If our biological daughter had lived, she'd be Evelyn's age now..."

Jonathan squeezed his wife's shoulder. "Let the past rest. Leia is our daughter now."

Yet Genevieve couldn't shake the invisible barrier she felt with Lillian, no matter how dutiful the girl appeared.

The drive to Blackwood Manor passed through A City's glittering skyline. Dominic's low-profile luxury car moved smoothly through the nearly deserted streets - most businesses had closed early for the holiday.

The mandatory family dinner proceeded with typical formality. Afterwards, Dominic, Evelyn and their twins returned home.

The usually vibrant city seemed eerily quiet. Occasional fireworks briefly illuminated the skyline, though the council's ban dampened celebrations.

Dominic felt an unfamiliar warmth as he drove. Exhaustion from the long day mingled with profound contentment.

New Year's had always been his loneliest time - until now.

By the time they arrived home, the twins were clamoring for a late snack. Evelyn immediately set to work in the kitchen, filling the mansion with welcoming light and the rich aroma of homemade chicken soup.

As she stirred the pot, Dominic embraced her from behind, nuzzling her neck. "This is the happiest New Year's I've ever known," he murmured.

Their combined shadows stretched across the wall - a stark contrast to the solitary silhouette he'd known for so many years.

Evelyn turned in his arms, rising on tiptoes to brush her lips against his. "And I promise you'll never spend another New Year's alone."