Chapter 2

The crystal chandelier cast shimmering light across the room, illuminating Dominic's piercing dark eyes that seemed to hold ancient secrets and hidden dangers.

That intense gaze alone could freeze blood in one's veins.

Julian's face drained of color as he staggered backward several steps.

"Evelyn... I mean, Aunt Evelyn... It's late, I shouldn't disturb you and Uncle Dominic any longer!"

Cold sweat drenched Julian's shirt as he practically tripped over himself fleeing the bedroom.

Evelyn's chest constricted watching his terrified escape, her body beginning to shake uncontrollably.

Was Dominic awake? Wasn't he supposed to be dying?

Her throat closed up when she tried to speak. She wanted to examine him closer, but her feet might as well have been rooted to the floor.

Overwhelming fear crashed over her like a tidal wave, sending her stumbling toward the staircase.

"Mrs. Wilkins! Dominic's awake! His eyes opened!" Evelyn cried out, her voice trembling.

The housekeeper came rushing up the grand staircase at Evelyn's distressed call.

"Master Dominic opens his eyes daily, Madam, but that doesn't signify consciousness. See? He's not responding to any stimuli," Mrs. Wilkins explained gently before adding with a sigh, "The specialists said the chances of someone in a vegetative state regaining awareness are... negligible."

Evelyn still felt uneasy but nodded. "Could we leave the lights on tonight? I'm feeling rather unsettled."

"Of course, Madam," Mrs. Wilkins agreed. "Try to get some rest. You're expected at the family estate tomorrow morning. I'll wake you at seven."

"Thank you," Evelyn murmured.

After Mrs. Wilkins departed, Evelyn changed into silk pajamas and slipped into the massive four-poster bed.

She sat rigidly beside Dominic's motionless form, studying his aristocratic features. Tentatively, she waved a hand before his unblinking eyes.

"What are you thinking about, Dominic?" she whispered, receiving no reaction.

A sudden ache filled Evelyn's chest. Her own suffering paled in comparison to his silent ordeal.

"I hope you wake soon. If that snake Julian gets his greedy hands on your empire, you'll be rolling in your grave."

At that precise moment, Dominic's eyelids slowly drifted shut.

Evelyn gasped, her pulse skyrocketing as she stared at his still face.

Some vegetative patients retain awareness. Had he actually heard her?

She curled up beside him, nerves still jangling. After several minutes, she exhaled shakily.

For now, she was legally Mrs. Blackwood - untouchable.

But what would the Blackwoods do to her once Dominic passed?

The thought made her stomach clench.

She had to leverage her position before it was too late, reclaim everything stolen from her while Dominic still drew breath.

Every single person who'd wronged her would face retribution.

◆◆◆

At precisely eight the next morning, Mrs. Wilkins escorted Evelyn to the ancestral Blackwood estate to meet Eleanor Blackwood.

The entire family had gathered in the opulent drawing room when Evelyn arrived. With practiced grace, she served tea to each relative in order of seniority.

Eleanor observed Evelyn's perfect etiquette with satisfaction. A compliant daughter-in-law would be far easier to manipulate.

"Did you sleep well last night, dear?" Eleanor inquired sweetly.

Evelyn's cheeks pinkened. "Quite well, thank you."

"And Dominic? He didn't... disturb you?"

Evelyn recalled Dominic's devastatingly handsome yet lifeless face. "He was perfectly still. No trouble at all."

Though motionless, his body radiated warmth. In her sleep, she'd unconsciously curled against him like a living pillow, only to wake mortified in the wee hours.

"I have a little gift for you," Eleanor announced, producing an exquisite amethyst box. She revealed a diamond tennis bracelet that sparkled under the chandelier. "This complements your complexion beautifully. Do you like it?"

Evelyn couldn't refuse in front of the entire family. "It's stunning. Thank you."

Eleanor patted her hand. "I know this situation is difficult, my dear. With Dominic's condition, he can't properly care for you. But there is a way you could benefit greatly." The older woman's eyes gleamed. "Dominic's time grows short. He dedicated his life to business, never marrying or..." she paused meaningfully, "...fathering an heir."

Evelyn's spine stiffened.

An heir?

Was Eleanor suggesting...?

"I want you to carry Dominic's child and continue the Blackwood bloodline," Eleanor declared.

The room erupted in shocked murmurs. Evelyn's mouth fell open.

"Mother, Dominic's been ill for years. He may be sterile," Gregory Blackwood interjected.

Though Dominic still breathed, the vultures already circled his fortune.

Eleanor chuckled darkly. "The doctors have their methods. With Dominic's empire at stake, we must secure an heir. Even a daughter would suffice."

Suddenly, every eye in the room locked onto Evelyn.