Chapter 50

Evelyn had to confess that Dominic's presence made her feel unusually secure.

What woman wouldn't crave protection from such an extraordinary man?

Yet experience had taught her that even when a man seemed perfect, he could still break your heart. Only after being wounded would one understand how love could be both sweet as honey and sharp as a blade.

What would this man ultimately leave her with? She couldn't predict, nor was she willing to gamble on it.

Evelyn remained silent throughout the ride until they reached her apartment complex.

She had no intention of inviting Dominic inside. Revealing her exact unit number might lead to unexpected visits with his children in tow.

Currently sharing the apartment with Olivia, Evelyn dreaded potential misunderstandings.

The office rumors about her relationship with their boss were awkward enough. She couldn't afford similar gossip about her personal life.

Moreover, her breakup with Nathan was still fresh. If Olivia saw Dominic escorting her home so soon, even if her friend believed her, it might paint her as promiscuous.

"Mr. Blackwood, drive safely." Evelyn handed back his coat without meeting his eyes.

Dominic stood half a meter away, observing how her delicate fingers clutched his black coat.

He made no move to take it.

Under the neon glow, he lit a cigarette and inhaled deeply before asking in that rich baritone, "What exactly are you afraid of?"

Everything about him intimidated her - his imposing physique, aristocratic bearing, every refined movement that screamed unattainable.

"Mr. Blackwood, why must you torment me like this?"

"Why indeed?" He closed the distance between them in one stride. When she instinctively recoiled, he caught her chin, thumb tracing her jawline. "I have my reasons."

Evelyn searched his inscrutable gaze.

What possible reason could he have?

Was it some male compulsion to chase what they couldn't have? Once conquered, would she become disposable?

She turned her face away, breaking contact with those long fingers.

Dominic brought the cigarette to his lips but still didn't reclaim his coat.

Exasperated, Evelyn decided to be blunt. "I hope you'll show mercy and stop playing these games. Surely you're not lacking for female company. Any type you desire must be readily available."

He exhaled smoke toward her, arching an eyebrow. "Go on."

Bathed in neon, Evelyn's eyes shimmered like tear-filled crystals. "I want neither wealth nor fame - just a simple, stable life. I've no intention of clinging to your coattails or dreaming of fairy tale endings."

"Plenty of women would kill for that chance - actresses, socialites, heiresses... Take your pick."

Dominic studied her intently. Outwardly calm, inside raged a tempest. Had he ever pursued any woman like this?

Even his mother hadn't received such attention.

Couldn't she see how far he'd lowered himself?

"Do you think just anyone can cling to me?" His expression turned icy. "For someone who trembled at my mere touch, you're setting quite the barrier now."

Evelyn's head snapped up, cheeks flushing crimson despite the neon glow.

"Wait here. Imagine the consequences if you disobey." He finally took his coat, took one last drag, and walked away.

Left standing dumbfounded, Evelyn watched Dominic's retreating figure - tall, commanding, radiating authority.

She closed her eyes. No matter how much Dominic resembled Alexander Blackwood, their personalities were worlds apart. One a gentleman, the other sharp-tongued and temperamental.

How could they possibly be the same person?

Lost in thought, Evelyn didn't notice the approaching Audi Q5 until it was nearly upon her.

Inside, Nathan's dark mood had infected Sophia. He'd been heading for the supermarket parking lot when Sophia suddenly shouted, "Stop the car!"

"This isn't your driveway," Nathan snapped without looking at her.

"It's Evelyn! Stop!" Sophia glared at him. "Isn't this what you wanted? A chance to see your precious Evelyn?"

Nathan's expression shifted instantly at Evelyn's name.

Sophia felt the baby inside her was a cruel joke. "Since you blame me for losing her, maybe I should help reconcile you two!"

She flung the door open before Nathan could respond.

Evelyn froze at Sophia's sudden appearance.

"Surprised?" Sophia's voice dripped venom. "Didn't expect to see me here? You forgot to tell Cassandra we're not exactly sisterly."

Since running into Cassandra months ago, Sophia had learned Evelyn's address through casual conversations. Playing the innocent girl, she'd gleaned information while Cassandra remained unsuspecting.

Remembering the pregnancy rumors, Evelyn felt only calm detachment.

"When's the wedding? Don't forget to invite me. You two seem perfect for each other."

Sophia sneered. "Playing tough? Admit it - you're heartbroken I took your man!"

Evelyn laughed lightly. "Just discarded some worn-out shoes. Once something's thrown away, who picks it up afterwards doesn't concern me."

Sophia's mask of composure finally cracked.