Chapter 91

The warmth drained from the room the moment Evelyn stepped out, leaving Dominic shivering in her absence.

Evelyn slipped into the restroom to splash cold water on her face. The icy droplets did little to calm the storm inside her.

Returning to the exhibition hall, she forced herself to focus.

The event lasted barely over an hour, yet it felt like mere minutes. Though surrounded by cutting-edge innovations, none of it registered in her mind.

As the exhibition concluded, Tristan approached with an easy smile. "There's a lovely new café nearby. Care to join me for tea?"

Exhaustion weighed heavy on her shoulders. "I think I'll head back to rest," she declined politely.

Noticing the shadows beneath her eyes, Tristan insisted, "At least let me drive you home."

"Thank you," she murmured.

They moved toward the exit, where a familiar figure leaned against the wall.

Vincent Holloway.

Evelyn's spine straightened. "Mr. Chamberlain, would you mind going ahead? There's someone I need to speak with."

Tristan's gaze flickered to the former Thornfield Industries VP. "Of course. I'll be outside if you need me."

Only when Tristan disappeared through the doors did Vincent approach.

"Considering Veritas Capital's offer?" His smile didn't reach his eyes.

"I heard you landed at Aureate Tech. Impressive," Evelyn countered.

Vincent shrugged. "Vice President again. Seems I'm destined to always play second fiddle."

"Then start your own company," she suggested coolly. "Be your own boss."

His chuckle held no warmth. "Too much risk. I prefer letting others take the fall."

Evelyn's mask slipped. "How very... predictable of you."

The civility between them shattered. This was the man who'd orchestrated Julian's downfall. Evelyn's fingers curled into fists.

"Why so tense, Evelyn? Worried?" Vincent leaned closer. "Let me ease your mind - I've lost interest in your precious Cerebra System. My team's developing something far superior. Your technology will soon be obsolete."

"How ambitious." Her voice dripped with disdain.

His jaw tightened. "Aren't you afraid?"

"Shouldn't that be my question?" Evelyn's lips curved into a razor-sharp smile. "However useless Julian may be, he's still a Whitmore. I'd watch my back if I were you."

Vincent's face flushed crimson.

Evelyn strode past him without another glance, rejoining Tristan outside.

"Mr. Chamberlain, you can go ahead. I spotted a flower market nearby - I'd like to pick some up." The lie came easily; she needed solitude.

Tristan hesitated before nodding. "Actually, my father's birthday is next weekend. I'd love if you could attend."

"Of course."

"Bring your mother too. It'll be an intimate gathering at our estate."

"I'll check with her. Thank you."

"No need for thanks." Tristan's smile was genuine. "I'll arrange transportation."

"That won't be necessary. We'll see you at the party."

Only when Tristan's car disappeared around the corner did Evelyn exhale. The wind whipped at her coat as she turned toward the parking lot.

Meanwhile, back at Mooncrest Manor, Dominic lay burning with fever.

The attending physician exchanged a worried glance with Mrs. Wilkins.

The housekeeper pulled a bodyguard aside. "Did Master Dominic see Madam Evelyn today?"

The guard shifted uncomfortably. "They met. And... argued. Why else would he be in this state?"