Chapter 447

Dominic's fingers trailed through Evelyn's silky strands as he pressed a kiss to the tip of her nose. "That man's an international fraud wanted by Interpol. Doesn't that scare you?"

Evelyn's lips parted in shock.

Unable to resist her adorable reaction, Dominic pinched her earlobe. "Darling, you actually believed that?"

She playfully swatted his chest when she saw his teasing grin. "Don't joke about such things! You had me genuinely worried."

Warmth flooded Dominic's chest as Evelyn's smile outshone even the most vibrant spring blossoms.

It wasn't just her beauty that captivated him, but the grace and kindness radiating from her very being. Just being near her eased his burdens.

"Some decisions I make have complex reasons behind them," he murmured, cradling her delicate hand. "As a mother of three, you should focus on setting examples rather than fretting over every little thing."

"I know," Evelyn sighed. "Pregnancy hormones make everything feel more intense."

Dominic laced their fingers together as they ventured deeper into the peach grove. "With me here, you'll never need to shed another tear."

The garden unfolded like a living painting - endless rows of peach trees heavy with blossoms ranging from delicate snow white to passionate sunset pink.

For the first time in weeks, Dominic's corporate responsibilities faded from his mind. The woman beside him was his sanctuary, his reason for understanding love's true meaning.

After ten minutes, Evelyn suddenly halted, studying his chiseled features with newfound intensity.

Dominic smirked. "Tired? I can carry—"

Her lips silenced him as she rose on tiptoes, trailing kisses from his forehead down to his strong jawline. A mischievous glint sparkled in her eyes - a rare display of boldness from his usually reserved wife.

Dominic arched a brow. "In public? Where's my shy girl gone?"

Evelyn's coy smile held secrets. "There's nobody here. Besides, it's my turn to initiate." She gestured toward a vintage gazebo where another couple was lost in their own intimate moment.

Spring's embrace surrounded them - fragrant blossoms, birdsong, and the intoxicating promise of new beginnings.

Each time Evelyn stretched to kiss him, Dominic had to bend slightly. Yet he adored this playful side of her emerging like the season's first blooms.

The further they wandered, the more intense the floral perfume grew until they reached a secluded resting area with rattan chairs.

"This place is magical," Evelyn breathed. "The owner must cherish life's beauty."

Dominic's response was immediate. "Shall I purchase it for you?"

He might as well have been discussing buying a cup of coffee for how casually the multimillion-dollar offer left his lips. For Evelyn's happiness, no price was too steep.

Her eyes widened. Seeing his seriousness, she quickly shook her head. "This garden is someone else's labor of love. I couldn't possibly take that away."

More importantly, the sprawling estate on A City's outskirts carried an astronomical price tag. Evelyn never exploited Dominic's devotion with unreasonable demands - a quality he treasured.

"Then I'll acquire land for your own garden," he vowed. "Where you can cultivate whatever your heart desires."

Assuming he jested, Evelyn lost herself in admiring his striking features framed by falling petals. Words felt inadequate - only physical closeness could convey the depth of her emotions.

Their lips met again until something cool brushed Evelyn's nape. A breathtaking emerald necklace glimmered against her skin, its turquoise hues rivaling tropical waters.

Recognizing Dominic's extravagant tastes, she immediately removed it. "You've already gifted me jewelry. I can't—"

"I purchased this during my last business trip," he interjected smoothly. "A modest piece, really. Barely a few thousand."

Only years later at an antique auction would Evelyn discover the devastating truth - her "affordable" necklace was a one-of-a-kind museum-worthy artifact. Dominic's little white lie had been for her comfort, not his wallet.

For now, she accepted the gift with trusting innocence, unaware of its priceless legacy...