Chapter 492

Evelyn's heart sank when Beatrice failed to open Dominic's bedroom door.

She quickly masked her smirk with a practiced look of sympathy. "Dominic values his privacy. Since we're not officially together yet, I shouldn't invade his personal space. I wouldn't want him getting upset - especially not at you, Beatrice."

"You're absolutely right, Evelyn." Beatrice beamed. "Once you're engaged, he'll bring you in himself without me saying a word. I can't wait for that day!"

With each interaction, Beatrice grew more convinced Evelyn would make the perfect daughter-in-law.

'She's not even married to Dominic yet, but already considers my feelings. What a compliant daughter-in-law she'll be,' Beatrice thought approvingly.

"Is Dominic terribly busy lately?" Evelyn inquired casually.

She'd visited T Corporation multiple times without success. Dominic's movements remained frustratingly opaque - no amount of threats or bribes could loosen the receptionists' tongues. Crawford Manor had become her last resort.

"Absolutely swamped with that urban renewal project," Beatrice sighed dramatically. "He's working himself to the bone, losing weight by the day. It breaks my heart to see it."

She leaned in conspiratorially. "Winning a man's heart requires strategy, Evelyn. My son prioritizes his career and can be... slow in matters of the heart. But you're perfect for him. Persistence will pay off."

Beatrice's eyes glazed with nostalgia. "When I pursued Edmund, women swarmed around him like flies. None lasted more than a month. Know why I succeeded? I understood what he truly wanted."

Evelyn recalled Beatrice's humble origins as a struggling dancer who'd clawed her way to becoming the Crawford matriarch, even surpassing Margaret Lockwood's status. The woman's cunning impressed her.

"I'll do my best," Evelyn murmured obediently. "When will Dominic return?"

"The family gathers for dinner on the 15th of every month without fail. Today's the 15th - he'll definitely come home."

Evelyn feigned disappointment. "Oh dear, it's Grandmother Prescott's birthday today. I must visit her. If Dominic returns late, I'll have to catch him another time."

They descended to the parlor, chatting about designer labels and skincare routines - Beatrice's limited repertoire of conversation topics. Evelyn wondered how such a vapid woman had ensnared the sophisticated Edmund Crawford.

'Thank heavens Dominic inherited his mother's looks and his father's brains,' she mused.

The crunch of tires on gravel announced arrivals. Dominic entered the living room with Alexander and Isabella in tow.

A shadow flickered across his striking features at the sight of Evelyn before his usual icy composure returned. "Ms. Prescott. When did you arrive?"

"Just visiting Beatrice. Did you collect the children from school?" Evelyn's gaze lingered hungrily on Dominic.

He seemed more devastatingly handsome each time she saw him. His diamond-bright eyes held an intrinsic brilliance needing no external light.

The twins clung to their father's hands, scowling at Evelyn without greeting. To them, she represented the villain trying to steal their father from their mother - deserving no courtesy.

Undeterred by their chilly reception, Evelyn produced two children's outfits from her designer bag. "Alexander, Isabella, I bought these for you! Try them on!"

She unveiled a biker set for the boy and a princess dress for the girl.

Alexander declined with a miniature version of Dominic's piercing stare. "Thank you, Aunt Prescott, but we have more clothes than we can wear."

Isabella was blunter. "Mommy bought me a similar dress last month. I prefer hers."

Evelyn's smile stiffened. These weren't the pliable children she'd anticipated. Becoming their stepmother would prove challenging.

If she married Dominic, she'd ensure these troublesome brats didn't remain underfoot.

Beatrice yanked her granddaughter closer. "Mind your manners! Thank Aunt Prescott properly or people will think Crawford children lack breeding!"

Isabella turned away with a haughty sniff, refusing to acknowledge either woman.

Evelyn checked her watch pointedly. "It's getting late, Beatrice. I should head home before my parents worry. I'll visit again soon."

As Dominic started upstairs, Beatrice shot him a meaningful glare. "Of course, dear. I'd insist you stay for dinner if not for your grandmother's celebration. Dominic, escort Evelyn home and pick up a gift for Elizabeth Prescott on the way."