Chapter 461

Dominic gently wiped away Evelyn's tears in full view of everyone. "What's this? My future Mrs. Blackwood crying before her wedding?" His teasing tone carried warmth.

Though joking, his heart ached seeing her pale complexion. Those red-rimmed eyes gripped something deep in his chest.

Evelyn clutched his sleeve, struggling to contain her emotions. She shook her head. "I'm just... overwhelmed. Sometimes I still can't believe this is real."

His hand came to rest on her head, fingers threading through her hair like she was the rarest treasure. "Still dreaming, sweetheart? We're literally picking your wedding dress."

The boutique staff stood frozen. This tender man contradicted every rumor about Dominic Blackwood - the ruthless CEO nicknamed "The Ice King" by business rivals.

Could this be the same man whose mere presence made board members sweat?

Dominic ignored their stares, pulling Evelyn closer until the world narrowed to just them. Only when she noticed the envious glances did she attempt to create distance.

"Your reputation," she murmured.

He only smiled wider, pressing a kiss to her cheek. "You're breathtaking in that dress. If I could marry you this instant, I would. Claim you before anyone else gets ideas."

His words seeped into her bones like an intoxicating poison. No antidote existed for this kind of love.

Eyes misting, Evelyn turned away to hide her vulnerability. "I'd say yes if you asked right now."

The manager beamed. "Such devotion! May your love shine forever."

"Thank you." Dominic's response startled everyone - gratitude wasn't his usual currency.

The manager practically glowed. "We have more designs perfect for Mrs. Blackwood. Would you like to see?"

Evelyn opened her mouth to decline, but Dominic answered first. "Let her try everything."

Seven outfits and three hours later, they settled on four wedding dresses, four evening gowns, and six pairs of shoes. The price tag made Evelyn dizzy, but Dominic swiped his black card without blinking.

Back at Blackwood Tower, Dominic buried himself in contract negotiations for a ten-billion-dollar deal. The stakes demanded his full attention - one misstep could cost everything.

He didn't notice Vivienne's arrival until she spoke. "Is it true? The engagement's tomorrow?"

Signing a document, he glanced up. "You received the invitation. Carlton Hotel at seven. I expect you'll be there."

Her laugh held bitterness. "How special I must be - learning about your engagement with the rest of the staff. What exactly am I to you, Dominic?"

His brow furrowed at her uncharacteristic behavior. "My apologies for the late notice. Between us, you've always been my most valuable executive. These past years, no one's matched your competence."

Most valuable executive. That was all?

Vivienne's heart shattered. After everything, she remained just another employee in his eyes. The cruelest fate imaginable.