Chapter 438

Evelyn remained silent.

From the moment she discovered Vivienne had planted a pair of lace panties in Dominic's car, she knew exactly what kind of woman Vivienne was.

Yet she believed nothing could break the bond between her and Dominic.

What did it matter if Vivienne schemed?

She was the woman Dominic loved.

If Dominic had any feelings for Vivienne, they would have been together long ago. Vivienne wouldn't need to wait.

Evelyn flashed Abigail a confident smile. "I understand your concern, but our love can withstand anything. If he's truly mine, no one can take him away. If not, then forcing him to stay would be pointless. We've survived too much to be torn apart now."

Seeing Evelyn's unwavering faith, Abigail and Olivia exchanged glances but said nothing more.

They genuinely wished for Evelyn's happiness. A woman like her deserved true love.

Olivia lightened the mood. "Hey, how about a round of Flappy Bird? Let's see who can score highest!"

Evelyn and Abigail immediately agreed.

Just as they pulled out their phones, the department head announced the meeting would resume.

The conference hall buzzed with tension when they returned.

Vivi Group's executives sat stiffly, especially Quentin, whose thunderous expression spoke volumes.

In contrast, T Corporation's team radiated confidence. Dominic's earlier briefing had clearly reassured even the most skeptical board members.

Dominic dominated the room from his seat, his commanding presence undeniable as he regarded Vivi Group's representatives.

The corporate giants engaged in silent warfare.

Finally, Vivi Group's chairman broke the stalemate. "Mr. Blackwood, after deliberation, we'll proceed with the collaboration—with one additional clause. Should your company commit any major errors or attempt further profit encroachment, we reserve unilateral termination rights."

A satisfied gleam appeared in Dominic's striking eyes. "Agreed."

"Then let's sign today."

After finalizing amendments, both parties shook hands and signed.

Dominic checked his watch diplomatically. "Congratulations again, Mr. Prescott. May our partnership thrive. I've arranged a celebratory dinner—will you join us?"

"Another time." Quentin's curt refusal mirrored his displeasure at the unfavorable terms. With a sharp gesture to his team, he snapped, "We're leaving."

Vivi Group's deflated exit starkly contrasted their earlier confidence.

T Corporation's executives barely contained their elation at Quentin's unexpected concession, praising Dominic's negotiation skills.

Dominic dismissed the team, watching as they filed out.

Evelyn lingered at the back. Turning, she caught sight of Dominic reviewing documents, occasionally murmuring instructions to Sebastian and Julian beside him.

Her heart swelled with admiration for his sharp intellect and undeniable magnetism.

Sensing her gaze, Dominic looked up. His icy demeanor melted instantly when their eyes met, a private smile curving his lips.

The electricity between them was palpable.

Vivienne watched bitterly as Dominic's angelic smile—never directed at her—lit up for Evelyn. Her legs turned leaden with envy.

After Evelyn disappeared from view, Vivienne trudged away, resentment festering.

That evening, in a luxury hotel suite...

The air hung thick with tension above the disheveled bed where Lillian endured Wesley's latest assault.

"Turn over," he commanded.

Lillian whimpered, attempting to cover herself.

Wesley scoffed, roughly yanking her hands away. "Why bother hiding? I know every inch of you."

Humiliated tears spilled down her cheeks.

"Spare me the act," he sneered. "You're quite the performer."

Her fingers trembled against the sheets. "I'm not acting!"

"Aren't you?" His mocking tone cut deep.

Lillian's tear-filled eyes burned with hatred.

She should have been the esteemed Ms. Prescott—not this monster's plaything, forced to obey his every whim lest he release those damning photos. She fantasized about driving a knife through his heart.

But the throbbing scar on her wrist served as a grim reminder: without a flawless plan, any rebellion would only hurt herself.

The bedside phone's ringing interrupted them.

Wesley stilled, his expression darkening at the caller ID. With abrupt detachment, he stood. "I have business. Remember what happens if you misbehave."

Lillian masked her relief behind submission. "Understood."

Satisfied, Wesley dressed with military precision—a display that both impressed and terrified her, reinforcing how thoroughly trapped she was.

After he left, Lillian received a call from Genevieve. Her grandfather had taken ill again, and her parents needed her to fetch his supplements.

Agreeing, Lillian winced at her soreness as she entered her family home later. Spotting the supplements on the living room sofa, she headed upstairs to change.

Passing her father's study, she noticed the slightly ajar door. On impulse, she pushed it open and stepped inside...