Chapter 429

Evelyn took her seat as Yvonne Blackwell's sharp gaze swept across the office. "With the urban reconstruction project underway," she announced firmly, "I expect nothing less than your absolute best. Teamwork is mandatory—any sabotage attempts will result in immediate removal from the project."

A chorus of agreements followed, though Evelyn caught Bernadette Worthing's barely concealed smirk.

As the workday neared its end, Yvonne revealed tomorrow's joint meeting between T Corporation and Vivi Group would review project progress. Both companies' top executives—including Dominic Blackwood himself—would attend this unprecedented gathering.

The announcement sent a chill down Evelyn's spine. Could she maintain composure under such scrutiny?

She considered staying late to prepare, but Yvonne insisted the team dine together at Blue Honors. "Perfect chance to welcome our new member and bond," she declared.

"Blue Honors' cuisine is divine!" Abigail Thornton chirped while organizing her desk. "My little one deserves this treat."

Olivia Kensington shot her a look. "Haven't you read those pregnancy articles? Overeating leads to oversized babies and C-sections."

Abigail gasped. "That can't be true!" Her appetite had been insatiable since conception.

Rolling her eyes, Olivia countered, "Why would I lie?"

"Ugh...guess I'm dieting now." Abigail rubbed her belly mournfully. "You hear that, baby? Mommy's suffering because of you."

The shared glance between Olivia and Evelyn held quiet amusement. Evelyn's smile softened as her fingers brushed her own flat stomach.

Olivia nudged Evelyn playfully. "You've been spacing out lately with that secret smile. Spill—any news between you and Mr. Blackwood?"

"Don't be ridiculous," Evelyn deflected, shutting down her computer. "Let's go. The Vivi team's already left."

With even pregnant Abigail attending, Evelyn had no excuse to decline. She texted Dominic about the dinner plans, assuring him she'd cab home later.

Knowing Percy Worthington owned Blue Honors put Dominic at ease. His reply came swiftly: No alcohol. Call for pickup afterward.

The group filed out, but Bernadette suddenly clutched her stomach near the restroom. "Cramps! Go ahead—I'll catch up."

Yvonne hesitated. "Room 808. Don't dawdle."

As the others departed, Bernadette's gaze locked onto Evelyn's retreating figure, scheming.

Blue Honors never failed to impress Evelyn with its opulent interiors. The dinner's atmosphere warmed quickly—Yvonne's off-duty persona as a witty, approachable mentor surprised everyone.

Alistair Montgomery proved memorable too, his constant jokes sparking laughter. Yet his lingering, affectionate stares at Evelyn unsettled her.

Post-dinner, Yvonne suggested karaoke on the eighth floor. The spacious VIP room accommodated their entire party. After brief socializing, Yvonne excused herself.

Gregory Peterson and Malcolm Whitmore dominated the liquor while Miranda Caldwell butchered pop songs off-key. Only Geoffrey Winslow clapped enthusiastically. Abigail and Olivia stifled giggles.

Evelyn nibbled fruit from the coffee table when Alistair slid beside her. "Enchanté," he murmured with a French accent. "Might I inquire about your relationship status?"

She edged away. "Taken."

Disappointment flickered across his handsome features. "Pity. I thought I'd found my soulmate." He brightened. "Not married though, yes?"

"Engaged. Wedding preparations are underway."

Alistair's eyes gleamed. "No ring means fair game! There's a saying—"

"—All's fair in love and war," Evelyn finished dryly. His shameless persistence left her speechless.