Chapter 419

The moment Evelyn had been anticipating finally arrived.

A sleek black limousine pulled up at the entrance.

Two broad-shouldered bodyguards stepped out first, scanning the surroundings with practiced efficiency. Sophie watched the scene unfold from the window.

"Who on earth is this? Why do they need such heavy security?" Sophie gasped, her fingers gripping the windowsill.

Evelyn rose from the couch. As she passed Sophie, she murmured, "Eric Montclair."

After months of intensive rehabilitation, the former superstar had regained his ability to walk. Today, he'd come with his family to personally thank Evelyn for saving his career.

Eric wore dark athletic wear with a baseball cap pulled low. A medical mask and sunglasses completed his disguise, making facial recognition impossible. Yet even concealed, his commanding presence and perfect posture turned heads. He moved with the effortless grace of a panther.

"Evelyn, I swear I'm going to scream!" Sophie vibrated with barely contained excitement.

"Please don't," Evelyn warned. "The neighbors will think we're being robbed."

Sophie bit her fist instead.

The entourage entered the living room under the watchful eyes of security. Without removing his disguise, Eric suddenly pulled Evelyn into a warm embrace.

"Dr. Thorne, I owe you everything."

Evelyn stiffened in surprise. "Just Evelyn is fine."

"Evelyn...thank you." Releasing her, Eric finally removed his cap, mask, and glasses.

Golden afternoon light illuminated his sculpted features - high cheekbones, flawless skin, and those famous ice-blue eyes that had launched a thousand magazine covers. The room collectively held its breath. Photos didn't do justice to his otherworldly beauty.

Lily's jaw dropped. She stuffed both fists in her mouth to contain her squeal. This man was even more gorgeous than her stupid father! No—they weren't even comparable! Eric was exactly her type - youthful perfection.

"Mister!" Lily suddenly dashed forward with uncharacteristic boldness. "I'm Lily! Evelyn's favorite daughter! I think you're amazing!"

Eric blinked in surprise before gently scooping the giggling girl into his arms.

Henry, embarrassed by his sister's antics, retreated to his room. Michael had just finished dressing when he saw Lily in Eric's embrace. An unfamiliar pang of jealousy twisted in his chest.

"Evelyn," Eric began, still holding the beaming Lily, "I came today not just to thank you." His piercing gaze locked onto Evelyn's. "I'm returning to the stage."

Sophie shrieked.

Eric turned his attention to her.

"I'm Evelyn's best friend!" Sophie blurted. "And—and your biggest fan!"

Eric's famous smile lit up the room. "I brought an advance copy of my new single. I'd value your feedback."

Sophie looked ready to faint. Michael caught her just as her knees buckled.

"Evelyn," Michael interjected, steadying Sophie, "I need to head to work. We're conducting employee physicals this afternoon. I'll come back to get you—you're required to participate too."