Chapter 420

At noon, Eric had lunch at Evelyn’s before leaving.

"Evelyn, go rest up before your physical this afternoon. I’ll take the kids out for some fun. How does that sound?" Sophie had noticed the gorgeous weather and didn’t want to waste it indoors. "I’ll have them back by six."

Evelyn saw the excitement in the children’s eyes and couldn’t refuse.

"Sophie, are you sure it won’t be too much trouble?"

Sophie waved her off. "They’re not toddlers anymore. It’s not like I have to carry them. Taking them out is actually fun!"

Evelyn made sure a bodyguard accompanied them. After they left, she closed the front door and exhaled.

A pristine white box sat on the coffee table—Eric’s parting gift. He’d called it his lucky charm. Nothing extravagant, just something meaningful.

She couldn’t bring herself to refuse.

Carrying the box to her room, she sat on the edge of her bed just as Michael called.

"Evelyn, I’ll pick you up in two hours. Get some rest." Then, with a teasing lilt, he added, "Is that pretty boy gone yet? If not, it’s time to kick him out, don’t you think?"

"Don’t call him that. He’s a genuine artist. I heard his new song today—it’s incredible," Evelyn said honestly. "I’ve never been one to follow celebrities, but his talent is magnetic. I’m officially a fan."

Michael groaned. "Ugh, don’t tell me you’re falling for him!"

"It’s admiration."

"Right, admiration. But honestly, if you ended up with him, I wouldn’t complain. When it comes to partners, you either want someone rich, handsome, or talented. Eric ticks two of those boxes. I’ll admit, he’s easy on the eyes."

"If you’re done, I’m hanging up." Evelyn had no interest in continuing this conversation.

After ending things with Dominic, she had no intention of diving into another relationship.

They drained too much energy. She was done with them.

Evelyn set her phone aside and opened the white box. Inside lay an intricately designed necklace.

The pendant was a ring, engraved with symbols in a language she didn’t recognize.

She placed it back in the box and lay down. Despite getting plenty of sleep lately, she wasn’t tired.

Gazing out the window, she watched the sunlight filter through the trees and the occasional bird flit by. A rare tranquility settled over her.

For the first time in ages, her mind wasn’t consumed by thoughts of Dominic or their past. She hadn’t planned her future either. This peace was unfamiliar—but she liked it.

She hoped it would last.

Two hours later, Michael arrived to take her to the hospital. Seeing her colleagues after so long stirred emotions. They bombarded her with questions about her "vacation."

Evelyn shot Michael a look. He leaned in and whispered, "I couldn’t exactly tell them Dominic kidnapped you. How embarrassing would that be? I said you went on a trip."

"You could’ve warned me. I didn’t bring any gifts."

"You’re not officially back until tomorrow. After your checkup, we’ll go shopping."

Evelyn sighed in relief.

After the examinations, they left the hospital.

"Let me drop you off first. Just tell me what you need, and I’ll handle the shopping," Michael offered, concerned about her stamina.