Chapter 433

"How cunning! I told you he was into you!" Michael Sterling sat beside Evelyn, having clearly overheard their exchange. "If you're interested too, you two could be official before midnight!"

"He's too young. Youth makes people reckless," Evelyn explained, brushing her hair behind her ear. "I remember being that age."

Michael smirked. "Oh I know! Back then you were reckless for Dominic. Now karma's coming for you."

Evelyn pressed her lips together, rendered speechless.

"Evie, stop scrolling through social media." Michael ruffled her hair affectionately. "Internet trolls are vicious! Their words cut deep. Don't let them get to you."

"I'm not looking," Evelyn said calmly, locking her phone. "Even if I was, it wouldn't affect me. I've built thicker skin over the years."

"That's my girl!" Michael checked his watch. "Nathan invited me for late-night tacos. I should head out. Call if you need anything."

"Go on then. And no tequila shots!"

"Scout's honor!" Michael crossed his heart before grabbing his jacket and heading out.

At nine-thirty, Evelyn turned off the nightlight in the children's room. As her footsteps faded down the hallway, Lily tugged at Henry's pajama sleeve.

"Henry, Mommy said no to Uncle Eric. I'm sad. Why doesn't she like him? He's so cool and handsome. Wouldn't he make the perfect daddy?" Lily whispered, unable to contain her disappointment.

She'd never dare say this in front of Evelyn, knowing her mother's decisions were final.

Henry remained characteristically composed. Though Eric was undoubtedly attractive and had helped their mother, no man in his opinion deserved her.

"Then good luck."

Lily blinked. "What do you mean? I don't understand."

"Good luck growing up fast. Then you can marry him," Henry deadpanned.

Lily's jaw dropped. "Henry! Are you serious?"

"Guess you don't really like him then."

"I do! But when I grow up, he'll be old!" Lily protested, wrinkling her nose.

Henry adjusted his glasses. "If you truly loved him, age wouldn't matter."

Lily took a dramatic breath. "Fine... wish me luck then."

Back in her room, Evelyn unlocked her phone to find Eric Montclair's latest post from five minutes prior. His verification badge glowed blue beside his name.

[If I'm fortunate enough to find mutual love someday, I'll share that joy with you all. As for Ms. Thorne - she remains my goddess. My admiration and respect for her are eternal. To my fans: please cease all attacks against her. Thank you.]

The tweet instantly went viral.

Meanwhile, Dominic Blackwood scrolled through his phone before bed when a news alert popped up:

[Eric Montclair Declares Evelyn Thorne His Goddess!]

Dominic's jaw clenched. Goddess?

The audacity! Why not just confess his love outright?

Yet Evelyn clearly hadn't taken the bait. Otherwise Eric's tweet would've read: [Yes, Evelyn Thorne and I are together!]

Dominic's brow furrowed as an unfamiliar tension settled in his chest. For the first time since his injury, he opened his messages and typed Evelyn's name.