Chapter 144

Evelyn received a call from Frederick at two in the afternoon.

"Potential buyers want to meet regarding Thornfield Tower, Evelyn. When works for your schedule?"

Frederick's voice carried urgency. "Also, do you have your financial statements prepared? Current market valuation puts the property at eighty million dors minimum."

Evelyn nearly dropped her phone.

"Wasn't the purchase price half that amount originally?"

"Location determines everything," Frederick explained. "Prime real estate in Ravenshore's business district has appreciated significantly these past years."

"I'm tied up today. Schedule it for tomorrow."

"Consider it done. I'll notify them immediately."

Evelyn had promised Sophie their long-awaited reunion that afternoon.

Though separated by continents, their friendship never wavered.

Their bond remained unbroken despite infrequent contact.

Sophie arrived at Villa Serenade clutching a dozen crimson roses.

The moment their eyes met, both women rushed into a tearful embrace.

"Four years, Evelyn! I was about to disown you as my best friend!"

Only twice had they met during Evelyn's absence.

Both times, Sophie had flown overseas to visit.

Evelyn buried her face in the fragrant blooms. "These smell like true friendship."

"I almost pretended not to recognize you!" Sophie pulled her to their table. "Four years without visiting? Unforgivable! Tell me you're staying for good this time."

"Unless we're talking about vacation plans..."

"Still joking!" Sophie scanned the menu while studying her friend. "Where are you staying now?"

After ordering, she passed the menu to Evelyn who added nothing before dismissing the waiter.

"I bought at Mooncrest Manor."

Sophie's fork clattered against her water glass. "The gated community with those insane waterfront villas?"

Evelyn shrugged. "Had some success abroad."

"Holy hell! Those properties start at five million! What kind of 'some success' are we talking about?" Sophie fluttered her lashes dramatically. "Teach me your ways, oh wealthy one."

"Started a tech company. Exceeded projections." Evelyn sipped her sparkling water.

"Incredible! Adrian's startup hasn't cracked seven figures yet. My parents refuse our engagement until he 'gets serious' about finances." Sophie's shoulders slumped. "Five years together and still waiting..."

"Didn't they say they'd approve if he joined the family business?"

"That stubborn fool refuses! Claims he'll support me with his 'modest earnings'." Sophie mimed wiping tears. "At this rate, I'll die an old maid."

Evelyn leaned forward with a smirk. "Marry me instead. We'll relocate somewhere that recognizes same-sex unions."

Sophie choked on her drink, laughter bubbling over.

Her expression sobered as she grasped Evelyn's hand. "Truth time. Why divorce Dominic? Was there someone else? The tabloids never reported any affairs."

"Would you stay with Adrian if you knew his heart belonged to another, even if she never appeared?"

Sophie's jaw dropped. "Dominic was unfaithful?!"

"Ancient history." Evelyn swirled her water glass. "The divorce is just paperwork at this point."

"All his friends painted you as the villain! Called him the most devoted husband alive while branding you heartless." Sophie made a gagging motion. "Makes me sick."

"Not at the table, please." Evelyn's enigmatic smile never wavered.

"Enough about that bastard! What's next for Thornfield Industries' prodigal CEO?"

Evelyn's eyes gleamed with determination. "Rebuilding my father's legacy from the ground up."