Chapter 725

Evelyn turned just in time to see Lucas humming as he strolled toward the kitchen.

That was odd.

Normally, Lucas wouldn't set foot in there unless William forced him.

What had gotten into him today?

William sat brooding in the living room, absorbed in his latest historical drama binge.

Evelyn was about to join him when footsteps descended the stairs.

Donovan came down sighing heavily.

"Donovan's home already?"

"Where's Emily? Didn't she come back with you?"

Donovan's expression darkened at the sore subject.

William barely glanced up, clearly not in the mood to engage.

The scientist rubbed his neck, aristocratic features flushing slightly. "I'm returning to the lab tomorrow. Emily's staying with her family a while longer."

Evelyn nodded as Donovan disappeared into the kitchen.

Lucas bounded over cheerfully. "Evie! I made matcha latte! Try some—"

Evelyn's jaw dropped.

'He's offering me liquid calories at this hour? Does he want me to gain ten pounds?'

Before she could respond, Donovan's clinical voice floated out.

"This beverage contains trans fats that elevate LDL cholesterol and increase cardiovascular risks. Long-term consumption may even contribute to carcinogenic—"

'Appetite officially ruined.'

Evelyn pivoted silently away.

Lucas gaped for three full seconds before groaning. "Donovan, you're a walking contraceptive ad!"

The scientist emerged looking even more morose.

Meanwhile, Lucas cheerfully presented his creation to William. "Dad! Made this just for you!"

William sipped without looking up. "Not sweet enough."

Lucas grinned. "Natalie prefers less sugar, so you'll have to suffer."

William's eye twitched. 'This brat's begging for another spanking.'

Within the week, Jonathan delivered excellent news. Lawrence Sinclair, Victor Langley, and other Zenith Corp executives were convicted of embezzlement and accounting fraud—sentenced to three years.

Next came Sterling Enterprises' restructuring of Zenith Corp.

Since Zenith's employees had united against Sterling initially, Evelyn felt little sympathy.

They'd received generous severance yet still tried following Lawrence's corrupt example.

Only ten remained under contract—all junior staff who'd receive substantial payouts if they left.

Which they did.

With the matter settled, Evelyn finally exhaled.

She'd oversee the project launch personally—the rest was straightforward.

Sterling Tower.

Evelyn reviewed Jonathan's report while sipping espresso.

Her phone buzzed—Isabella.

"Check Nathan's latest post! Priceless!"

Evelyn's stomach dropped.

That bastard Nathan Blackwood was undoubtedly stirring trouble again.

She tapped her social media feed—there it was.

"Blessed to create sweet moments for you."

The photo showed an elaborate dessert spread—peach galettes, strawberry mille-feuille, chocolate soufflés, blueberry clafoutis—arranged in a perfect heart.

This time, he'd omitted her name.

But the heart-shaped display spoke volumes.