ã€ŠThe Billionaireéˆ¥æªš Unexpected Proposal (Evelyn and Derek)ã€‹


 Chapter 1

    At twenty-two, Evelyn knew exactly what she wanted. She had always known it since she was fifteen and had wanted the very same thing for the past six years to marry the love of her life right after her graduation from school and start her own family.

    She believed herself to be the luckiest girl on earth to have her dreamse true.From N?velDrama.Org.

    Here she was, a week after her graduation, trying on her wedding dress for the final fitting before the wedding tomorrow.

    Her fianc¨¦, Michael, was the one and only love of her life. She had met him three years ago, and it had been love at first sight for both of them. In less than twenty-four hours, they would be walking down the aisle. Ecstatic didn''t do justice to what she was truly feeling.

    "You''re going to make the most beautiful bride ever, Eve," Sandra, her stepsister, cooed, breaking into her thoughts.

    "I already feel like the most beautiful bride, Sandy. This feels like a fairytale, and I''m about to begin my happily ever after," Evelyn said with a wide smile.

    "This is perfect. So perfect," Evelyn said, shing the designer a delighted smile.

    "Mike is not going to be able to tear his eyes away from you," Sandra said, admiring Evelyn as the designer added the final touch to her wedding dress.

    Evelyn grinned as she twirled around, her eyes shining brightly. "Thanks, Sandy. What would I do without you?" Evelyn asked as she stopped turning and stood facing Sandra.

    Evelyn''s mother had died after birthing her, leaving her father no choice but to raise her alone. When she turned five, her father had married Sandra''s mom, who was a single mother.

    Sandra had been four years old while Evelyn was five, and they had gotten along so well together all these years and were best of friends.

    "Let''s hope you never find out," Sandra said with a grin, then nced at her wristwatch.

    "Shoot! I need to go see if the florist has gotten all the flowers ready as requested. Will you be fine on your own?" Sandra asked, and Evelyn rolled her eyes.

    "I''m not a kid. Of course, I will be okay," Evelyn assured her.

    "Alright. Try to get some rest. Sleep if you can. Tonight is going to be yourst night as a bachelorette, and we have to party," Sandra said in a sing-song voice, and Evelyn giggled as she watched her leave the room.

    Thirty minutester, after the designer left, Evelyny on her bed thinking about Michael and what it would feel like walking down the aisle with him tomorrow.

    Suddenly missing him, she decided to sneak over to his ce to spend some fun time with him before Sandra got back.

    Picking up her car key, she hurried out of the house and got into her car. She decided to give him a call first, wanting to confirm that he was indeed at home. The phone rang four times before he picked up. "Hey, soon-to-be-wife," he greeted softly, and she blushed.

    "Hello, soon-to-be-husband," she responded happily.

    "Missing me?" he asked, as though he could read her mind.

    "Yeah. What are you up to? Are you out? Is Rex with you?" she asked, referring to his best man.

    "No. Rex isn''t here yet. I''m home, trying to set up the ce for my wife to move in," he said, and she grinned.

    "What about you? What are you doing?" he asked with interest.

    "Me? Just lying down and thinking about you," she lied.

    "Alright. I can''t wait to see you in your dress tomorrow. I love you so much," he said, making her smile.

    "I love you so much more. I will let you get back to what you were doing..."

    "I will finish up and call you back, okay?" he said, and she grinned.

    "Alright, baby," she said, and with that, she hung up the call and started the car.

    She couldn''t wait to see the surprise on his face when he saw her standing in front of him.

    Twenty minutester, she arrived at his ce and rode the elevator up to his apartment.

    Wanting to surprise him, she didn''t bother with the doorbell and entered the passcode for his door.

    The moment she walked into the house, the smile on her face faltered when she saw the white stilettos by the door.

    Did he havepany? she mused as she took off her shoes and continued inside.

    She wanted to call out his name, but she stopped when she saw the feminine clothes strewn across his couch: a short white cotton dress and a red zer.

    This time her brows pulled together when she recognized the very familiar clothes. These were the clothes Sandra had been wearing earlier.

    She looked back at the stilettos and recognized them as the limited edition pair she had gotten Sandra for her birthday the previous year.

    Why was Sandra here and not at the florist''s? And why didn''t Michael mention that Sandra was with him? Evelyn mused, her heart racing fast as she made her way toward the bedroom.

    A part of her brain already analyzed the situation and knew what was going on, but another part of her brain didn''t want to believe it.

    She wanted to believe that perhaps Sandra hade here to discuss details about the flowers with Michael, and maybe tea had spilled on her dress, so she was inside looking for something else to wear. Unfortunately, the closer Evelyn drew to the bedroom, the less she believed the excuse she was making.

    Sandra''sughter drifted through the half-opened door of the bedroom. "You needed to hear her earlier," she heard Sandra say.

    "I already feel like the most beautiful bride, Sandy. This feels like a fairytale, and I''m about to begin my happily ever after," Sandra said, mimicking what Evelyn had said earlier, and Michael chuckled. "She is so childish and silly. The only reason I''m able to stand her is her inheritance," she heard Michael say, and her perfect world shattered in an instant.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2

    Hearing those words from Michael and Sandra was one thing, but seeing them entwined on the bed was another.

    Evelyn''s breath caught in her throat, and she felt the sting of betrayal cut deep. She backed away, her vision blurred by tears, and fled the house, her heart pounding in her chest. She got into her car and drove away, wanting to be as far away from them as possible.

    She thought of going back home, but she couldn''t. She didn''t want to see anyone. She didn''t want to face anyone. She didn''t want to have to look into Sandra''s face. She couldn''t.

    She kept driving, her tears blurring her vision, until she collided with another vehicle.

    The screech of tires and the crunch of metal jolted her back to reality.

    Her car swerved violently, and she mmed on the brakes, the force throwing her forward before the car jolted violently to a shuddering halt.

    Disoriented, she wrenched her head around, her heart hammering against her ribs. Her hands shook as she gripped the steering wheel, her mind reeling from the impact.

    Across the intersection, the other car, a sleek ck sedan, sat at a jaunty angle, its bumper crumpled like discarded foil. A figure emerged from the backseat, a man in a crisp suit; his face contorted in a mask of fury.

    As he stormed towards her, Evelyn braced herself for a verbal onught. But as he drew closer, his anger morphed into concern, and Evelyn realized she wasn''t prepared for this. As he got closer, the anger in his eyes softened slightly when he saw Evelyn, her face streaked with tears and her mascara smudged.

    "What the hell were you doing?

    Do you want to get yourself and others killed?" he asked, his voiceced with a hint of concern despite his anger.

    Evelyn opened her mouth to speak, but all that came out was a choked sob. She slumped back in her seat, burying her face in her hands.

    The man hesitated, frustration warring with a flicker of worry.

    "Hey, are you alright?" he asked, his voice softer this time.

    Evelyn couldn''t respond; she just kept crying, the sobs wracking her body.From N?velDrama.Org.

    "Where are you heading?" he finally asked, his voice gentle despite the throbbing vein in his temple. "I will take you there."

    Evelyn shook her head, her voice muffled against her hands.

    The thought of facing anyone and exining the mess she was in was unbearable.

    "Come on,dy," the man persisted, his voice firm but kind. "You''re in no state to drive, and neither is your car in any state to be driven. Let me take you," he insisted.

    Evelyn remained silent, the image of Sandra and Michael shing before her eyes, a cruel reminder of her shattered world.

    The man sighed, a hint of exasperation creeping into his voice. "Look," he said impatiently, "either you let me take you somewhere safe, or I''m calling the cops and dealing with this the other way." Evelyn looked up and nced at the vehicles as the weight of his threat sank in. Dealing with the police, the insurance, and the aftermath was thest thing she needed right now. With a shaky nod, she conceded defeat. "Alright," she croaked, her voice hoarse with tears.

    "Good," he said, relief washing over his features. "Get in my car.

    I will have yours taken care of and brought to you."

    Reluctantly, Evelyn nodded and got out of her car. He guided her to his vehicle, helped her into the passenger seat, and then signaled his driver to take care of her car and bring it along.

    Evelyn stole a nce at herpanion as he got into the car. He was handsome in a rugged way, with dark hair that swept across his forehead. When he turned to look at her, she was met with piercing blue eyes that held a hint of curiosity.

    "Where to?" he asked, his voice stillced with concern.

    Evelyn bit her lip, unsure of what to say. Anywhere. Literally anywhere, as long as it wasn''t her home, wasn''t her life, wasn''t the nightmare she was running from. "Anywhere. Just take me anywhere," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

    The man raised an eyebrow, a flicker of amusement dancing in his eyes. "That''s not very specific," he said, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

    Evelyn''s resolve hardened. She didn''t want conversation, didn''t want pity. All she craved was a temporary escape, a brief respite from the mess that had be her life. Suddenly, a reckless thought, born out of desperation and heartache, crossed her mind.

    "Your ce,"

    she blurted out,

    shocking even herself.

    The man''s smile vanished, reced by a look of utter bewilderment. "My ce?" he echoed. "What do you mean?"

    "Anywhere you''re going is fine," she insisted.

    He sighed, clearly uncertain, but left without a choice. He drove to his hotel, his mind racing with questions.

    The ride was mostly silent, punctuated only by the soft sniffles she couldn''t quite control.

    As they pulled up to a luxurious hotel, the man turned to her.

    "Are you sure you don''t want to go home or to a hospital?" he asked, his voiceced with concern.

    Evelyn shook her head. The tears finally receded, leaving behind a raw vulnerability.

    The man seemed hesitant, but after a moment, he sighed.

    "Alright," he said. "Look, I don''t know what''s going on, but if you want to talk about it, I''m here to listen."

    "Thanks," she mumbled as he helped her out of the car and led her to his suite, leaving his driver to go fix the cars.

    Inside, he guided her to sit on the couch and brought her a ss of water. She took it, her hands trembling.

    "What happened?" he asked softly, sitting beside her. "Why were you crying?"

    Evelyn couldn''t bring herself to tell him. The words were too painful to say out loud. She just shook her head, fresh tears spilling down her cheeks.

    Seeing that she didn''t want to talk, he rose. "If you don''t mind, I need to freshen up. I''ve had a long day," he said, and without waiting for her response, he walked into his bedroom.

    When he stepped out of the bathroom, he was surprised to see her standing in his room.

    "What are you doing in here? Do you need something?" he asked since the only thing covering his body was the towel around his waist.

    "Are you married?" she asked, looking at him with an unreadable expression that shocked him.

    He blinked in surprise. "No.

    Why are you..."

    "Engaged? Do you have a girlfriend?" she asked, cutting him off.

    He was puzzled by her line of questioning but answered, "No."

    "Would you want to have sex with me?" she asked bluntly.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3

    Derek stared at her, taken aback. "Why would I want to do that? Why would you want to do that?" He asked, beginning to wonder if the whole ident and tears thing had been a ploy to get to him. Evelyn''s cheeks burned with a mixture of shame and a strange sense of defiance. The words had tumbled out before she could think.

    "I mean," she stammered, her voice barely a whisper,

    "do you... find me attractive?"

    He stared at her, his blue eyes narrowed in confusion.

    The silence stretched between them, thick and heavy.

    Evelyn wanted to crawl under the seat and disappear.

    This impulsive act, born out of heartbreak, was already spiraling out of control.

    Finally, he spoke, his voice carefully neutral. "Yes," he conceded, "but I don''t understand. Why would you want to have sex with me?"

    Evelyn took a deep, shaky breath. Every fiber of her being screamed at her to run, to get away from this man, this stranger who had witnessed her breakdown.

    But the raw, exposed vulnerability within her battled that instinct.

    There was a strange calmness in the face of the unknown, a temporary escape from the wreckage of her life.

    "Look," she began, her voice hollow. "I just realized I''ve made a terrible mistake all my life. The worst mistake," she hesitated, tears welling up again, "And I need to make one more mistake before I snap back to my senses."

    "That doesn''t make any sense. Why will you want to make any more mistakes if the one you made already left you in this state?" He asked, trying to rationalize what she had just said.

    "Because by doing this, I might be able to forgive myself for that terrible mistake. Don''t try to understand me. The only thing I want from you is sex.

    I''m not asking for your love. I''m not asking for your money. And I don''t want to know who you are or your name either. I don''t need any of that from you. All I want is for you to have sex with me."

    Derek studied her intently for a long moment, his expression unreadable. She could almost see the wheels turning in his head, the questions forming behind his gaze.

    Then, to her surprise, a slow smile spread across his face. It wasn''t a mocking smile, but one touched with understanding, maybe even a hint of sympathy.

    He shook his head. "No, I can''t do that. You''re clearly upset. What was the mistake you made? Perhaps I can help you better by giving you listening ears."

    Evelyn didn''t respond and to his utter shock, she began to take off her dress, stripping naked in front of him.

    Derek watched her, confusion warring with desire as she walked over to him, her eyes pleading. "Please, just have sex with me."N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.

    He looked away from her naked body, "I can''t do that.

    You''re hurting. And I really don''t think this is the solution."

    "I''m not in need of a solution. I need a temporary reprieve," she said as she raised herself on her toes, pressing her body against his and kissed him.

    The moment she kissed him, he let go of any hesitation and returned the kiss with equal passion.

    Before she knew it, he carried her over to the bed andid her on it.

    Breaking the kiss he held her gaze, his gaze searching.

    "Are you sure about this?" he asked gently.

    Evelyn met his eyes, a new resolve hardening in her gaze. She nodded. "Yes," she said, her voice stronger than it had been since their chance meeting. "I''m sure."

    The moment she gaze her consent, he pinned her against the bed and ravaged her lips, while his hands moved to grab her breasts.

    Although she had only wanted to have sex because she thought having sex with a stranger would help her get over the fact that she had been sleeping with a stranger and nning to marry him for the past four years, but something about the way this stranger touched her aroused her far more than Michael''s touch had ever aroused her and she found herself meaning loudly.

    She pulled off the towel and let her hands go down to the bulge between his legs and she squeezed it gently, eliciting a soft groan from him.

    She closed her eyes when he lowered his lips to her perky breasts. He circled his tongue around her nipples one at a time, while his hand slowly moved down her abdomen.

    A gasp escaped from her lips when his fingers connected with her slit, and she tightly held on to the bedsheet with one hand and buried the other hand in his short mop of ck hair, as she kissed him ferventl trying to stop herself from moaning as he pleasures her with his fingers.

    As though he could sense she was trying to hold back, he increased the pace of his fingers, and she couldn''t hold back anymore as her silent moans became loud cries of pleasure.

    "Please fuck me now," she pleaded in a throaty cry, wanting nothing other than to have him buried inside her.

    "I will, sweet, but only after you cum for me," he said, and as though that was all she needed to hear, she toppled over the climax of her pleasure and her nod shook with the force of her orgasm. While she was yet to recover from it, he positioned himself between her thighs and thrust into her with an urgency she wasn''t used to, sending her into another round of orgasm.

    She cried out in pleasure, wanting him to stop so that she could catch her breath, but at the same time not wanting him to stop as she moved her waist in rhythm with his thrusts.

    That night, Evelyn, who had always thought she was frigid discovered for the first time that sex was great.

    She spent the rest of the night with the handsome stranger, rediscovering herself and unlearning all the lies that Michael had made her believe about herself and her body.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4

    Evelyn woke up before the sun had fully risen, the faint light of dawn seeping through the hotel room''s heavy curtains.

    She blinked a few times, disoriented, before the events of the previous night came rushing back to her.

    Derricky beside her, his arm draped across her waist, breathing deeply in his sleep. She gently lifted his arm, careful not to wake him, and slipped out of bed

    Her clothesy neatly folded on the dresser. She didn''t remember picking them up from the floor but she was d he did.

    She quickly picked them up, dressing in silence. Her heart pounded in her chest as she moved towards the door. She paused, seeing her car key on the table by the door, and hesitated, ncing back at Derrick. He remained asleep, his face peaceful in the dim light.

    She contemted leaving him a thank you note but decided against it as she grabbed the key, took a deep breath, and quietly slipped out of the room.

    She hurried down the deserted hallway to the elevator, and out of the building. The cool morning air hit her like a p as she stepped out of the building. Relief washed over her as she spotted her car in the valet lot, looking slightly worse for wear but intact.

    As she got into the car, she froze. Her phoney on the passenger seat, its screen glowing with missed notifications.

    She picked it up and saw countless missed calls from her parents, Michael, and Sandra. Evelyn''s heart sank as she stared at the screen, but she didn''t return any of the calls.

    Each number represented a conversation she wasn''t ready to have, a judgment she wasn''t ready to face.

    With a clenched jaw, she tossed the phone onto the passenger seat, started the car, and drove off, the events of the past day ying on a loop in her mind.

    The drive home was a blur. When she finally pulled up to her house, it was early enough that the neighborhood was still shrouded in a quiet morning calm, but her house was bustling with activity.

    The sight of it all the decorations, the flowers, the frantic energy - felt like a punch to the gut. This wasn''t her reality anymore. This was a fantasy built on

    lies.

    She parked and took a moment to steel herself before stepping out of the car. As she approached the front door, it swung open, and her father stood there, his face a mask of worry and fury. "Evelyn!" he roared, his voice heavy with anger and disbelief. "Where the hell have you been?"

    The usation hung in the air, a physical blow. Evelyn stared at her father, his face contorted in fury, and a cold emptiness settled in her stomach.

    Before she could respond, Michael and Sandra appeared behind him, looking equally relieved and worried. Michael reached out to her, his face etched with concern. "Evelyn, thank goodness you''re alright. Where were you? We were so worried."

    Evelyn stepped back, avoiding his touch, her expression cold and distant. She walked past them and into the house, her stepmother waiting in the hallway.

    "You could have taken your calls. You got us all really worried. You should go shower," her stepmother said, her tone gentle but firm. "We need to get ready for the wedding."

    "There will be no wedding," Evelyn announced, her voice steady and loud enough for everyone to hear.

    A stunned silence fell over the room. Michael''s face paled, his mouth opening and closing wordlessly.

    "What do you mean?" he finally managed to ask. "I mean exactly what I said," Evelyn replied, her voice unwavering. "I am not marrying you, Michael."

    Her father''s face turned a shade of red Evelyn had never seen before. "What do you mean you re not getting married? How can you spend the night before your wedding God-knows-where,e back reeking of male cologne, and then say you''re not getting married?"

    Sandra stepped forward, her expression one of concern. "Evelyn, what''s wrong? Are you having cold feet?"

    Evelyn turned to her stepsister, a stranger hidden behind a mask of feigned sympathy. The betrayal echoed in her memory, clear as day. How could she have been so blind? She mused as she looked at Sandra with a nk expression, feeling a surge of anger and betrayal.

    ''How did I never realize what a calcting bitch you are?'' she thought, but she said nothing.

    Her father''s voice broke through her thoughts, loud and angry. "You will go upstairs, get ready, and marry Michael, or you will cease to be a part of this family."

    Evelyn''s heart ached at her father''s words. It hurt that he cared more about the wedding than her well-being.

    She took a deep breath, standing tall. "I am not getting married. It was my choice to get married, and now I no longer want to get married. You can do whatever you want, Dad."

    Her father''s face twisted with rage. "If you don''t get married to Michael today, then you leave this house and nevere back. I don''t want to see your face ever again." Evelyn felt a pang of sadness but stood her ground.

    "Fine. I will leave," she dered, since she also needed time and space.

    She needed space away from both Michael and Sandra. She couldn''t bear to look them in the face and she never wanted to let them see or know how they had hurt her.

    The shock in the room was palpable as she turned and walked up the stairs and immediately her stepmother and Sandra hurried after her.

    Before either of them could walk into her bedroom, she mmed the door in their face and locked it, to keep them out.

    She grabbed a suitcase and began to pack, her hands trembling slightly but her resolve firm. She picked up passport and her essentials, her movements mechanical as she tried to ignore the emotions roiling inside her.

    Evelyn took onest look around her room, then headed back downstairs, her suitcase in tow.

    Downstairs, her father''s voice continued to echo angrily, her stepmother trying to calm him down, while Michael and Sandra whispered urgently to each other.

    As she reached the bottom step, her father red at her. "You really mean to leave?"

    Evelyn nodded, her eyes meeting his. "Yes."

    Without another word, she walked past them all, out the front door, and into the new, uncertain future that awaited her.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

 Chapter 5

    As Derek stirred awake, he rolled over, reaching out instinctively, but his hand met only cool sheets.

    Groggily, he opened his eyes, blinking against the sunlight.

    When he saw that the other side of the bed was empty, he sat up, the remnants of sleep clinging to him, and looked around the quiet room.

    He nced at the clock on the nightstand - it was eight in the morning. He frowned, running a hand through his tousled hair.

    He swung his legs over the side of the bed, nting his feet on the plush carpet.

    He stood, stretching, and took a slowp around the suite. Her clothes were gone, he noticed. The only trace of her was the subtle fragrance that still hung in the air.

    Her scent lingered in the room, a faint, tantalizing reminder of her presence.

    He remembered the night vividly: the intensity, the passion, the way her presence had ignited something in him. But now, she was gone.

    Frustration gnawed at him. He had just returned to the country the previous day, and the jetg had hit him hard. He had slept more soundly than he had in weeks, and in his deep sleep, he hadn''t heard her leave.

    Derek grabbed his phone from the nightstand and dialed his driver. It rang twice before the familiar voice answered. "Good morning, Mr. Stone."

    "Thedy from yesterday, is her car still parked outside?" Derek asked, not bothering with pleasantries.

    "No, sir," the driver replied. "I didn''t see the car when I got here an hour ago."

    He cursed under his breath, thanking the driver before hanging up. He paced the room, his mind racing:

    He had no way of finding her, no clue about who she was or where she had gone. The realization only added to his frustration.

    He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down.

    There was nothing he could do about it now but hope that somehow she would show up again.

    For the time being, he needed to get ready for his cousin''s wedding. Pushing aside his irritation, he headed to the bathroom to shower and shave. The hot water did little to ease the tension in his muscles. His thoughts kept drifting back to her- her moan, her touch, the way she had made him feel alive. But now she was gone, leaving behind only a memory.

    Derek stepped out of the shower and toweled off, his mind gradually shifting to the day''s events.

    He dressed meticulously, choosing a crisp white shirt and a tailored suit. As he was fastening his cufflinks, his phone rang. It was his mother.

    "Morning, Mom," he greeted, holding the phone between his ear and shoulder as he finished dressing.

    "Derek, darling, are you alright? I just heard about the ident..."

    "I''m fine. I wasn''t hurt," he assured her quickly.

    "Alright. You need toe home," she said, her voice tinged with urgency.

    "Home? What for?" he echoed, confused. "What about the wedding?"

    "It''s off, dear. There won''t be a wedding," she replied.

    "The bride jilted your cousin. The wedding has been canceled."

    Derek paused, his cufflink forgotten. "What happened?"

    "I have no idea," his mother sighed. "Juste home.

    Hopefully Michael will exin everything to us all

    "I''ll be there soon," he said, ending the call.

    He stared at his reflection in the mirror, his mind reeling. The bride had jilted his cousin? This day was turning out to be far moreplicated than he had anticipated.

    He finished dressing quickly and grabbed his keys and wallet, slipping them into his pockets. With onest nce around the room, he left the suite, the scent of her perfume still faintly lingering in the air, a ghost of the night before.

    He stared out the window as the driver drove him to his family home, his thoughts a tangled mess of frustration and curiosity.

    Who was she? Why had she left without a word? And what on earth had happened with his cousin''s wedding?

    When he arrived, his mother met him at the door, her face drawn with worry.

    "I''m d you''re here," she said, pulling him into a brief hug.

    "What''s going on?" Derek asked curiously.

    His mother sighed. "Let''s go to the study. Your dad is there," she said, and led Derek to the study.

    "What''s this about Michael being jilted?" Derek asked as soon as the door closed behind him.

    His mother shook her head, looking both angry and resigned. "ording to his mother, she was out all night with her lover. She showed up early this morning, announced there would be no wedding, and refused to exin herself. Then she packed a bag and left."

    Derek frowned. "Just like that?" He asked as he settled into the seat opposite his father.

    "Just like that," she confirmed.

    "Poor Michael. He must be devastated," Derek said, and his mother nodded.

    "This is such a mess. Can you imagine how much embarrassment and humiliation the family has to suffer? I can''t believe he ever wanted to get married to someone so irresponsible," his mother said and Derek sighed.

    "Well, I suppose a broken engagement is better than a broken marriage," Derek pointed out.

    "You could say that. Now that you''re back, let''s talk about thepany. I''m stepping down for you to take over at the next shareholder''s meeting," his father announced.

    "When you say takeover, do you mean as your puppet so you can pull the strings behind the scene or do you mean you''re going to step backpletely and let me handle the business?" He asked with a raised brow and his father chuckled.

    "I''m going to let you do your thing. I''m old and tired.

    All I want is to retire and spend all my time ying golf," his father said and this time Derek chuckled.

    "You''re only in your early sixties. You''re not old at all.

    And I have no problems with taking over as long as you do not expect me to stand in front of any cameras reciting words I don''t mean or pretending to be who I''m not," he said easily, and his father nodded. "I understand your desire to not be under public scrutiny and I have always respected it. I won''t stop now," he said, and Derek nodded.

    "Then I guess I''m ready to take over the reins of leadership from you."N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6

    Exactly six years after Evelyn walked out on her father and left the country on the morning of her wedding, she returned with Samantha, her five year old daughter, and Maya, their trusted nanny for years. Six years ago, she had not only left her home, she had left the country, and now, she was going back. Not because she had any desire to confront her past or face her father, but because she wanted to return to the country of her birth with her little girl.

    Images of the past six years flickered before her eyes-the deception of Michael, Sandra''s betrayal, the abrupt departure, the loneliness of a foreignnd, and the unexpected pregnancy. A pang of anger shot through her as she thought of her father''s ultimatum to her on that morning six years ago-marriage to Michael or being cut off.

    "He should have handled it better," she muttered under her breath as she always did whenever she reyed the incident in her head.

    It still hurt and angered her each time she remembered how her father had reacted when he should have simply tried to make her open up about her reason for calling off the wedding.

    All of that didn''t matter now. All that mattered was her little girl. Samantha was now the joy of her life, and the best part of her life was being Samantha''s mom.

    Looking down at Samantha who was fast asleep and nestled beside her, a radiant smile lit up Evelyn''s face.

    "My bundle of joy," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion as she leaned down and kissed Samantha''s forehead.

    Samantha, feeling her mother''s lips, sleepily opened her eyes and returned the smile before drifting back off.

    Looking into Samantha''s blue eyes which she believed Samantha had inherited from her father, the memory of her carefree night with the stranger surfaced.

    She pushed the memory aside, not wanting to think about it or about the stranger who had given her the best sex of her life, and the best gift of her life-Samantha.

    She didn''t want to think about how she had slept with a stranger whose name she did not know, and whose face she could not remember, in a desperate attempt to numb the pain of betrayal.

    No matter how great the sex had been, or the fact that she sometimes thought about how a perfect stranger had managed to make her feel so good, she didn''t want to dwell on that. Especially not when she wasn''t even sure she would be able to recognize the stranger if ever she crossed paths with him again.

    As the cab drove them to their reserved hotel, Samantha chattered endlessly as she looked out the window asking questions which Maya happily answered, while Evelyn was preupied with her thoughts. The taxi driver''s voice snapped her out of her reverie.

    "Here we are, ma''am," he announced, pulling up in front of the Luxurious Stone''s Pce Hotel. Evelyn thanked him, fumbling slightly as she paid the fare while her charges got out of the cab.

    As soon as Evelyn turned to go into the hotel, she paused when it suddenly dawned on her that she was standing in front of the same Hotel where she had spent the night with that stranger six years ago. When The Stone''s Pce had been rmended to her as a child-friendly Hotel, she had not thought much of it before making reservations here.

    Was it a coincidence that this was the first ce she was staying after six years away? The very same ce she had spent herst night here, and where her daughter had been conceived?

    A knot of nervous excitement tightened in Evelyn''s stomach. It was a strange coincidence, a full-circle moment that both unsettled and exhrated her.

    Memories, bittersweet flickered at the edges of her mind but she quickly pushed them away and took a deep breath to calm herself.

    As Evelyn and her little crew stepped into the hotel lobby, a uniformed figure materialized, whisking away their luggage with practiced ease.

    "Wee to The Stone''s Pce, ma''am. Let me help with your bags," he offered, already lifting the suitcases.

    Evelyn nodded, murmuring her thanks before turning to Maya, "You both can sit over there while I check us in,'' Evelyn instructed Maya.

    The lobby buzzed with activity. Crystal chandeliers twinkled overhead, casting a soft glow on plush armchairs and gilded picture frames.

    Taking Samantha''s hand whose eyes were wide with wonder, Maya led her to a velvet sofa where they both sat down, while Evelyn approached the reception desk. "Good evening. I have a reservation under Evelyn Quinn."

    The receptionist, a young woman with a warm smile, began typing on herputer. "Wee, Ms. Quinn.

    Just a moment while I pull up your reservation."

    Meanwhile, Maya and Samantha settled into a plush loveseat in the lobby. Maya sat with a serene expression, observing Samantha as she gazed around, her wide blue eyes taking in the beauty of the hotel.

    Across from them, a figure hunched over a phone caught Samantha''s eye. Curiosity tugged at her, and she scooted closer to the edge of the sofa, her gaze fixed on the man.

    As if sensing her stare, he lifted his head. A smile, warm and genuine, crinkled the corners of his eyes when he saw the little girl staring directly at him, her eyes bright with curiosity.

    "Hello, little one!" Derek greeted with a friendly smile as he looked over the pretty little girl in front of him.

    "Mister, holding that phone so close to your face is bad for your eyes!" She dered, her voice clear and piping as she pointed at his phone.

    "Sammy!" Maya scolded, but Derek chuckled, a genuine sound that rumbled pleasantly as he lowered his phone, and Samantha''s face lit up in response.

    "Is that right?" he asked, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Who told you that, little one?"

    "My mommy," Samantha replied with the seriousness of a child imparting wisdom.

    Derek''s gaze shifted to Maya, who was now watching the interaction with mild amusement. He assumed she was Samantha''s mother and offered her a polite nod. Then he turned back to Samantha. "Well, your mummy is very wise. Thank you for looking out for me, Sammy."

    "How did you know my name?" Samantha asked, her eyes wide with wonder, and Derek grinned.

    "A little birdie told me," he said, even though he had just heard Maya refer to her as Sammy, "Can I call you Sam?" Samantha nodded enthusiastically. "What''s your name?"

    "My name is Rek. Are you staying at the hotel, Sam?"

    Samantha, ever eager to share, nodded

    enthusiastically. "Yes! We''re going to have a really nice room," she said, her excitement bubbling over.

    Derek smiled. "That sounds wonderful. You should try out the hotel''s yground. It''s a lot of fun."

    Samantha''s eyes widened. "yground?"

    Derek chuckled. "Exactly! Slides, swings, a whole jungle gym - it''s a kid''s paradise." Samantha''s excitement was tangible as she turned to look at Maya. "Can we go?" she pleaded, bouncing in her seat. "If you''re a good girl, we can go tomorrow," Maya promised.

    "I promise to be good," Samantha said, and Derek smiled.

    Samantha turned back to him, "We have the same eye color," she told him, and Derek nodded.

    "That we do. Maybe it''s a sign that we should be friends, he said, and she shook her head.

    "I''m not supposed to be friends with strangers""" she said, her expression innocent.

    "I''m not exactly a stranger anymore since you know my name and we are going to be neighbors for some days since we both live here," he exined.

    "You live here too? Will your room be as nice as ours?" She asked, and Derekughed a deep, hearty sound.

    "Yes, I do. I''ve been living here for years. And my room is the nicest in the Hotel," he said and her mouth formed a small ''o'' of surprise.

    "You don''t have a mommy and a home?"

    "I do have a mommy and a home. This hotel is my home too because I own it."

    Samantha''s eyes grew even wider, and she was about to ask another question when Maya, who had been listening to the exchange with a wary smile, exchanged a nce with Evelyn, who had just finished checking in and had signaled her toe along.

    "It''s time to leave, Sammy,, Maya said as she rose,

    "Now thank Mr Rek for his time""" Maya said as she took Samantha''s hand.

    "Thank you, Mr. Rek""" Samantha said politely.

    Derek smiled at her. "Enjoy the yground before you leave," he said, and Maya gave him a polite nod before walking away with Samantha.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

    Derek leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful frown recing his earlier smile. Although he was a lover of kids, the little girl, Sam, with her bright eyes and bossy pronouncements, had stirred something unexpected within him. A warmth, a tenderness he couldn''t exin, and for some reason, he wanted to see her again.

    Derek shook his head, dismissing the odd feeling as he returned his attention to his phone. This time, he made sure not to bring the phone too close to his face.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7

    "Look, Mommy! We can see everything from here!" Samantha eximed as they walked into their spacious and elegantly decorated room with a view of the city.

    Evelyn smiled, her heart swelling with love for her daughter. "Yes, we can. It''s a beautiful view," Evelyn said as she watched Samantha run to the window, pressing her nose against the ss. The bellman set their luggage down and handed Evelyn the room keys. "If you need anything, please don''t hesitate to call the front desk."

    "Thank you, Evelyn replied, tipping him.

    As he left, she turned to Maya. "You can go freshen up and get some rest. I will take care of Sam. Tomorrow you''ll have to watch her. I have a very important meeting tomorrow." Maya nodded. "You don''t have to worry about a thing.

    We will be fine. We n on exploring the yground tomorrow."

    Evelyn smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Maya. I don''t know what I''d do without you," Evelyn said as Maya walked away to her room.

    "Mommy, I have a new friend," Samantha, who had been looking out the ss, announced as she came back to join her mother. +5

    "Already?" Evelyn asked, amused by Samantha''s ability to befriend people so easily.

    "Yes. His name is Rek, and he told me about the yground," Samantha said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "I see. Hopefully, you''ll get to y with Rek at the yground tomorrow," Evelyn said, thinking that Rek was a kid her age.

    "Now, no more talking. Time to freshen up," Evelyn announced before Samantha could say anything else.

    After settling Samantha in for the night and making sure Maya wasfortable in the other room, Evelyn took a moment to herself. She stood by the window, looking out at the city she had once known so well.

    The Magazine where she worked had given her an important and seemingly impossible task, one that was tied to her promotion. She had been asked to convince the elusive billionaire

    CEO, Derek Stone, to agree to an interview.

    This was a feat that no media house or reporter had been able to achieve, and she had to do it if she wanted to be promoted.

    She had booked an appointment with Derek Stone before traveling down, ande morning, she would seize the opportunity that awaited her, but for now, she needed to rest and prepare her mind. The next morning, after a quick breakfast, Evelyn left Samantha in Maya''s care as she left the hotel for Stone Corp.

    As the cab drove through the city, navigating its way through the early morning traffic, Evelyn looked through the window, feeling a wave of nostalgia wash over her.

    The streets looked both familiar and strange at the same time, a reminder of how much time she had spent away from here.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Pushing away thoughts of the past, Evelyn focused on the challenges of the present. Since her waking hour, she had been trying toe up with different ways to convince Mr. Stone to have the interview with her, and even as the cab rode to a stop in front of thepany, she still didn''t have any idea how to go about convincing him.

    What could she say that would be different from everything he had heard all these years from people even far more experienced than she was? As she walked into the towering office building of Stone Corp, her nerves tightened.

    Her mind was so focused on her meeting with Mr.

    Stone that she did not notice the familiar figure whom she walked past until she heard her name.

    "Evelyn?"

    She turned around when she heard the familiar voice and she saw him- Michael. The idiot whom she had wasted her precious years on. The bastard who had tried to dupe her into marriage with him when he didn''t love her.

    He looked exactly the same as she remembered him, and the sight of him annoyed her even more now than it had six years ago. How did she ever fall for someone so shifty?

    How could she have forgotten that this was where he worked? In putting the past behind her, she had forgotten that Derek Stone was his cousin. Was Michael going to be an obstacle? She mused as she ignored him and turned to leave, but he grabbed her hand.

    "Is this really you?" Michael asked, his voiceced with disbelief, "What are you doing here after disappearing for six years without even bothering to offer an apology or exnation as to why you called off the wedding? Do you have any idea how much embarrassment you caused me and my family?" he demanded, and Evelyn''s jaw tightened as she snatched her hand from his grip.

    "If you do not want to cause a scene here, go on your way and act like you do not know me," she warned coldly, shocking Michael.

    Before he could recover from his shock, she walked away and stepped into the elevator, hoping to avoid any further interaction with him. Thest thing she needed was a confrontation with Michael, especially not now and definitely not here.

    Michael was confused and furious as he watched her leave. Without wasting any time, he whipped out his phone and dialed Sandra''s number.

    "You won''t believe who I just ran into right now," he said the moment the call connected.

    "Who?" Sandra inquired, her voice curious.

    "Evelyn."

    "Evelyn? Are you sure?" Sandra''s voice spiked with surprise.

    "Would I call you if I wasn''t sure? I confronted her, but she totally ignored me," Michael said, still feeling annoyed by her attitude.

    "Where did you see her?" Sandra asked, a hint of skepticism in her voice.

    "Right here at thepany," he said, wondering who she was there to see.

    "I take it you don''t know why she is there. Can you find out who she''s there to meet and why? And maybe you can follow her when she leaves and see where she''s been hiding this whole time," Sandra suggested.

    "Sure. I will have to cancel my meeting first. I will call youter," Michael said before hanging up.

    While Michael hurriedly headed for the elevator to see if he could catch up with Evelyn, Evelyn was being ushered into Derek''s office by his secretary.

    Taking a deep breath, Evelyn pushed open the imposing office door, a tremor of nervousness running through her as she stepped into the office of the Elusive Derek Stone.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8

    Evelyn put on her most charming smile on her face as she faced the man who was seated behind the desk with his head bent over hisptop. "Good morning, Mr. Stone," she greeted, her tone a blend of pleasant and polite.

    Derek raised his head when he heard the familiar female voice he couldn''t quite ce. He waspletely surprised when he met her gaze.

    Those green eyes belonged to none other than the onedy who had been on his mind for years. The one who had run away from him after their passionate night together.

    How could he not remember those green eyes? He had been with numerous women, most of whom he did not remember, but she was one he couldn''t forget. He remembered how her green eyes which had been brimming with tears of sadness had burned with passion.

    Who would have thought he would cross paths with her again? Or that she would walk into his office this way? He mused as he gazed at her.

    She looked differentpared to thest time he saw her. Her auburn hair, which had been long and curly a year ago, was now a pixie cut, giving her a more sharp and professional look. Evelyn''s smile faltered when she noticed the way he was staring at her wordlessly. Why was he looking at her so intensely? She mused, unsure whether to approach his desk or just stand there.

    Deciding that perhaps he was staring because he didn''t know who she was or maybe he was expecting her to say something, she cleared her throat, "My name is Evelyn Quinn, and I''m from Empowered Magazine," she exined as she moved closer to his desk.

    So, that was her name? Evelyn Quinn. He found it funny how a name he had desperately wanted and would have given anything to know all those years ago was mentioned so casually to him now.

    He had only agreed to meet with the person from Empowered Magazine because he wanted to honor them, but seeing her here now, he was d that he had agreed to meet with her. When he still did not say anything or offer her a seat, she looked around the office. "You have a nice office," Evelyn said, still trying to get him to talk since he had yet to say a word to her. Although, Derek could tell that he was making her ufortable by staring at her that way, he didn''t care. Not when she was acting like she didn''t remember him.

    Not knowing what else to do, Evelyn instinctively stretched out her hand. "It''s nice to finally meet you, Mr Stone," she said, still smiling at him.

    Derek looked down at her hand, and then he rose and took it in his own, "Have we met before?" He asked, studying her face and trying to see if she was acting like she didn''t know him because she was trying to be professional.

    Evelyn blinked back her confusion, wondering why he was holding onto her hand, "I don''t think so," she said with a shake of her head.

    "ying the pretend game with me, are you?" Derek asked, causing her to quickly withdraw her hand, puzzled.

    "What do you mean, Mr Stone?" she asked and Derek raised a brow, wondering if she was pretending or probably really didn''t recognize him. How could she not?

    How could she not remember him after all that had transpired between them? How could she forget him when she had lived rent-free in his head for thest six years? Derek mused as memories of her soft lips flooded his mind.

    He had dreamt of her every night for the past six years, her tear-streaked face, her presumptuous demand, and her cries of pleasure echoing in his mind, her touch an intense memory.

    "You don''t recognize me?" He asked, and she frowned.

    "Am I supposed to? I think you have the wrong person.

    I''ve never been here before and was only sent from mypany, to convince you to feature in our next issue," she rified.

    Derek narrowed his eyes as he studied her intently, looking for a hint of recognition, or probably a glint of mischief in her eyes- Any sign at all to see if she was pretending since he knew very well that he wasn''t mistaken.

    Unfortunately, there was nothing. Her wide green eyes shone with innocence as they stared back at him, bruising his ego.

    "I see that you really do not remember me," he remarked, his eyes shimmering with a flicker of hurt in them.

    Evelyn''s mind raced with questions about who he could be since she had never really been good with cing faces, or who she was being mistaken for.

    She felt concerned that a mistaken identity might jeopardize her chances of getting him to agree to an interview.

    A wave of disbelief washed over Derek as he continued to watch her. There was no way he was going to let her forget him so easily.

    Driven by desperate hope, he went around his desk, and Evelyn watched in confusion as she waited to see what he wanted to do.From N?velDrama.Org.

    As he closed the distance between them he could tell that he was making her nervous but he didn''t care.

    "Perhaps I should leave," Evelyn said as he walked closer to her with deliberate and determined steps.

    Standing in front of her now, Derek leaned forward so he was at the same eye level with her, "Do you remember me now?" He asked, and she shook her head. "I''m sorry, I..."

    "Are you married?" Derek asked, cutting her off as his eyes went to her ring finger.

    "No""" she said with a frown, wondering why he was asking her such a personal question.

    "Engaged? Do you have a boyfriend?" He asked, hoping that would jog her memory since those were the exact questions she had asked him too.

    Evelyn shook her head as her brows pulled together in a frown, "No. Why are you..."

    "That''s good then. Perfect," Derek said as he lowered his lips to hers.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9

    The moment his lips touched hers," Evelyn stiffened.

    She had heard about workce harassment and how powerful people loved to abuse their power, but never would she have thought she would be a victim of this. She would never have imagined that someone like Derek Stone would behave this way, Evelyn thought as she felt a rise of anger within her.

    She pushed him away, and stepped back, her green eyes shing with anger and her face flushed red,

    "What is the meaning of that?" She demanded angrily as she clenched her fists to keep herself from hitting him.

    Derek couldn''t believe that she still didn''t remember even after the questions he just asked to jog her memory.

    "I guess this is why you do not like to be interviewed or want your photos out there. You do not want anyone to see you for the kind of man you are," she said, and he snorted.

    "And what kind of man do you think I am, Eve?" He asked and she red at him for addressing her like they were friends.

    "I do not think we are close enough for you to call me by that name," she said in a scathing tone.

    "Shouldn''t you be trying to convince me to ept the request you''re here to make?" Derek asked, amused by her show of temper.

    This woman was quite different from the one he had met. She had been an emotional mess back then, but this woman here seemed to be solid.

    "You''re going to agree to the interview," she said, making up her mind to not beg him.

    "I am? Now why would I do that?" Derek asked as he sat on the edge of his desk and watched her.

    "Because if you don''t, I''m going to expose you for the disgusting pig you are. You might have been getting away with this dirty attitude of yours, but I am different. I won''t let you off so easily," she threatened, and heughed.

    "Let me get this straight. You''re saying you''re going to tell everyone I came on to you and kissed you if I don''t do the interview?" He asked in disbelief. "That''s right," she said, and he chuckled.

    "Isn''t that ckmail?" He asked, and she shrugged.

    "Call it whatever you want. You harassed me," she said tly.

    "If there is anyone who harassed anyone between the both of us, that would be you, Evelyn Quinn, not me," he said, and she raised a brow.

    "Really? You''re going to make it my word against yours kind of case?" She asked, and he smiled.

    "You do not have any proof that I did anything to you.

    But I have proof of what you did," Derek said and she frowned.

    "What are you talking about?" She asked in confusion.

    "I must say I''m hurt, Eve. You have really hurt my feelings and bruised my ego," he said, and she frowned, wondering why he kept sounding like he knew her. "Have we met before?" Evelyn asked now, since the more she looked at him, the more she was beginning to think he was familiar.

    "Would you want to have sex with me?" Derek asked, and when he saw the sh of indignation in her eyes, he shook his head.

    "That was the question you asked me, Evelyn. How can you so easily forget me after asking me to have sex with you?" He asked before she could say anything.

    Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat and a gasp escaped from her lips as recognition dawned on her. How could she not have recognized him? Those eyes that looked so much like Samantha''s.

    Her mind shed back to that night and when she pieced all his actions together, it became clear to her who he was.

    She took a step back in denial, "I don''t know who you are or what you''re talking about," she denied without meeting his gaze even though her cheeks which had flushed with anger a moment ago were flushed with shame now.

    There was no way she was admitting that she was that wantondy he had met six years ago.

    Derek''s lips twitched. He had seen the flicker of recognition in her eyes before she looked away, so now he knew that she knew exactly who he was.

    "You remember now, don''t you? So, which of us should charge the other with sexual harassment?" Derek asked and watched as her eyes darted to the door as though she was searching for an escape.

    "I think you have the wrong person. Maybe we should reschedule this meeting for another time," Evelyn said as she turned to head for the door, but Derek grabbed her hand.

    "Why don''t I jog your memory then?" He asked as he pulled her to himself rough.

    "What..."

    Derek crushed his lips to her once again, and this time there was nothing gentle about it.

    Evelyn ced both hands on his chest and pushed him away, "Stop it! Please stop!" She pleaded when she felt her body awakening to his touch.

    Derek stopped and looked at her. When she didn''t meet his gaze, he ced a finger under her chin so she would look at him, "Do you remember now?" He asked, daring her with his eyes to deny it once again.

    slowly, she dropped her hands to her side, "I''m sorry, I have to go," she said, and without waiting for him to say another word, she turned and fled his office.

    Derek had a smirk on his face as he watched her leave, but he made no attempt to chase after her or stop her.

    He had no fears about not seeing her again now since he knew she woulde back. She hade to him for business after all.From N?velDrama.Org.

    And even if she decided not toe back, he would find her easily. He not only knew her name now, but he also knew where she worked and the fact that she was very single, he thought with a grin. Derek couldn''t help feeling satisfied with himself for bringing back her memory. Now, she could no longer deny it.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10

    Michael, who had been in thepany''s security room checking the CCTV footage to see where Evelyn had entered, saw hering out of Derek''s office, and he immediately hurried out of there so he could catch up with her.

    He was quick enough to arrive outside just as she got into a cab. Michael made sure to stay on Evelyn''s tail as he followed her from when she left Stone Corp until she arrived at The Stone''s Pce. He waited in his car until Evelyn entered and disappeared into the hotel before he stepped out.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

    Crossing the street, he entered the grand foyer of the hotel, the polished marble floors echoing his footsteps.

    He approached the reception desk, where a young woman greeted him with a professional smile and the smile grew wider when she recognized Michael to be their CEO''s cousin. "Good afternoon, sir. How can I assist you today?" she asked, her voice as polished as the surroundings.

    Michael leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "I was wondering if you could tell me if any Evelyn Quinn is staying here. I have a personal matter to discuss with her," he inquired.

    Although that was against the Hotel''s policy, the receptionist didn''t bother asking any questions as she typed swiftly into herputer and then nodded.

    "Yes, Ms. Quinn is staying here. Is there anything else I can assist you with?" she asked, and Michael asked for the room number.

    "Anything else, sir?" she asked, and he shook his head.

    "That''s all I needed to know. Thank you," Michael said before stepping back and exiting the hotel.

    Now that he knew where Evelyn was staying, it was time he found out what she had gone to do at the office, Michael thought as he returned to thepany.

    The moment he got to thepany, he went directly to Derek''s office, and the secretary did not stop him as he went in.

    Derek, who was busy on the phone with Evelyn''s boss, spared Michael a nce as he walked in, "Yes. You got that right. That''s my only condition," Derek said before hanging up. "Hey!" Michael greeted casually as he made himselffortable on one of the seats, "Are you very busy?" he asked, and Derek raised a brow.

    "Not at the moment. Why? Is there a problem?"Derek asked, giving Michael his full attention.

    "No. It''s just that on my way out for a meeting, I saw ady leaving your office, and I''m sort of curious about her. What was she here for?" Michael said, gauging Derek''s reaction. Derek''s eyes narrowed slightly. "She''s from

    Empowered Magazine," he said since that was the onlydy who had been to his office that morning.

    "So, what does she want? An interview?" Michael asked since that was something almost all the magazines wanted. An exclusive interview with the elusive Stone Corp CEO. "Yes," Derek said simply, "Why do you ask?" Derek asked curiously, and Michael shrugged.

    "Can''t I be curious about a beautifuldy?" he asked with a grin, not wanting to tell Derek that she was the bitch who had screwed him over on the day of their wedding.

    "I wonder why they all keep approaching you when they know you''re going to refuse," Michael said with a shake of his head, thinking that Evelyn had left so quickly because Derek turned her down. "I have no idea, Derek said simply, his tone tinged with amusement.

    "Is that the only reason you are here?" Derek asked suspiciously, and Michael smiled, deciding to seize the opportunity to make a request.

    He chuckled. "Of course not. Why would I leave my office toe talk about some random girl?" Michael asked incredulously, and Derek nodded.

    "So, why are you here then?"

    "To ask you for a favor," he said, and Derek frowned.

    "You know very well I don''t like favors. What favor?"

    Derek asked with disapproval.

    "I want you to apany me to the Quinn''s anniversary.."

    "No," Derek cut in before he could finish.

    "I promised them I would convince you to attend..."

    "You shouldn''t have done so," Derek said with displeasure, clearly unimpressed by Michael''s request.

    "I know. And I''m sorry. Please, I want you to be at the anniversary party. It''s their twenty-third marriage anniversary, and I want to make it special for them," Michael pleaded.

    Sandra had asked him to arrange for her to meet with Derek. Just like they had nned for him to marry Evelyn and take over her inheritance, they wanted Derek to marry Sandra so they could dupe him. Derek raised an eyebrow, "What''s with you and that family anyway? Why do you care about making their anniversary special for them? And why would I want to do that for them when their daughter jilted you that way? Don''t tell me you still have feelings for her, and you''re hoping she woulde back to you?" Derek asked with a visible frown.

    Michael scoffed, "I wouldn''t even ept her if she came back crawling on all fours. It''s just that her parents are good to him. Her father even disowned her because of what she did to me. There''s no reason why I should ignore them simply because things didn''t work out between their daughter and me," Michael exined reasonably.

    "Please, D. Do this for me," he pleaded, and Derek sighed, rubbing his temples.

    "Mike, we''ve been over this before. You know how much I dislike parties and public functions..."

    "Yet you were going to attend my wedding.."

    "That''s because it was your wedding, and you''re like a younger brother to me. We practically grew up together, so I couldn''t have missed it even if I wanted," Derek cut in again, and Michael sighed. "Just consider it my wedding since I''m not sure when or if I''m ever going to get married. If you do this for me, then I owe you one. I really want you to be there," Michael implored, and Derek sighed. "I''m sorry, Mike. I can do any other thing but not this one," Derek said, but Michael shook his head.

    "Don''t be in haste to decline. There''s still time. It''s in two weeks, so think about it. I''m sure you''ll give me a positive reply," Michael said, and Derek snorted.

    "Will you think about it? Please?" Michael asked, and Derek remained silent for a moment, his expression unreadable.

    Finally, he nodded slightly. "Alright. I''ll think about it.

    But I''m not promising you anything," Derek said, and Michael smiled, taking that as a good sign.

    "That''s good enough. Thank you," he said as he walked out of the office.

    Michael knew getting Derek tomit would be a challenge, but at least he had nted the seed. Now, he just had to wait and see if it would grow. Not only that, he also knew where Evelyn was staying. He had aplished a lot in one day and couldn''t wait to tell Sandra.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11

    Back at the hotel, Evelyn was in a daze as she stumbled into her suite. She was relieved when she saw that Maya and Samantha weren''t in, meaning they were probably at the yground already. How did this happen? She asked herself.

    How did that stranger from six years ago end up to be Derek Stone? What in the name of coincidences was this? What was she supposed to do now about her official assignment? She couldn''t stay here. She couldn''t keep living in this hotel, especially considering the fact that he owned the ce.

    What if he ran into her and Samantha? What if he took one look at Samantha and realized she was his daughter? No way. She couldn''t let that happen, Evelyn thought, beginning to panic as she picked up her phone and dialed Maya''s line.

    "Return to the suite with Samantha at once," she ordered, sounding harsher than she meant.

    As she paced around her suite, she thought about giving her boss, Susan, a call to inform her that she would not be able to handle the assignment, and as such it should be given to someone else. She paused when she suddenly recalled herst conversation with Susan before she was sent to Ludus.

    "The management decided on you and Wes, and to be honest, most of them are leaning towards Wes. But I think you deserve this opportunity. I''ve seen you put in the work. I''ve seen your passion for the job. I admire your resilience and drive. And that is why I want to give you a chance to prove yourself to the management," Susan had said.

    "How?" Evelyn had asked, wondering what else she could do to prove herself if her work for the past four years wasn''t proof enough.

    "You will be sent to Ludus on probation. And you have one major task that will determine if you will be promoted to the position of editor-in-chief or not," Susan had stated in simple terms. "What is the task?" Evelyn had asked, her voice and enthusiasm dropping a notch as she leaned forward in her seat.

    "We want to feature the elusive billionaire CEO and most eligible bachelor in Ludus, Derek Stone, in our next issue. If you can secure an interview with him andnd the cover story, the position in Ludus is yours," Susan had said.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.

    Evelyn sighed now, ''Susan would be so disappointed, she thought, not knowing how to go about telling Susan now that she wasn''t up for it.

    She wanted the promotion. She needed it. But at what cost? Could she really risk staying here when Derek Stone could so easily discover Samantha''s existence?

    Was there even a possibility of her convincing him to do the interview?

    She looked up when the door opened, and Samantha ran in. "Mommy! You''re back early," Samantha said as she embraced her, and she crouched down to look at her daughter.

    Looking into her face, she could see the resemnce to Derek, no matter how little.

    What was she going to do about this mess? Evelyn mused.

    Away from there, after leaving Derek''s office, Michael walked into his office and pulled out his phone to update Sandra on histest aplishment.

    She picked up on the second ring, her voice tinged with curiosity. "What''s up? Has she left? Did you find out what she was there for? Did you follow her?" Sandra asked the moment she received the call. She had been worried ever since Mike informed her of Evelyn''s return. Although she had not nned for things to y out the way they did six years ago, she had been happy when Evelyn left and had hoped that Evelyn would never return. That way, all that belonged to Evelyn, especially the family magazine, which was Evelyn''s birthright, would be here.

    "Slow down with the questions. And yes to all your questions. I followed her and found out where she''s staying and what she came to do at thepany," Michael said before going on to recount his findings for the day, detailing Evelyn''s stay at The Stone''s Pce Hotel and her purpose at Stone Corp.

    Hearing that Evelyn was working with another magazine did little to reassure Sandra. Now that Evelyn was back in the country, she couldn''t shake off her insecurity. She feared she might lose her ce there if Evelyn decided to return home and make peace with her father.

    She had to find a way to make sure Evelyn never got her hand on it ever again. She decided.

    "Alright. Let''s talkter," she said distractedly, but Michael spoke up again before she could hang up.

    "You should know I spoke to Derek about it. I mean inviting him to the anniversary party," he exined, and this time, a smile curled up on Sandra''s face at the mention of that.

    "You''ve done well. You are so reliable, Mike. How about we meet after workter so you can tell me all the details in person?" Sandra asked in a suggestive tone, and Michael smiled. "Of course. See youter then," he said before hanging up.

    Michael leaned back in his chair, a sense of anticipation mingling with his satisfaction. Meeting Sandrater would allow him to borate on his conversation with Derek, and they would n their next steps. He felt a growing excitement at the thought of their meeting, knowing that together, they could navigate not only the challenges Evelyn might pose but also a way forward in their n for Derek. As Sandra dropped her phone, she contemted her next move. First, she was going to try to get Derek to do an exclusive interview with them since it was obvious that Evelyn wanted that.

    Next, she was going to find a way to paint Evelyn in a negative light and make her seem even more rebellious than she already was in front of their parents. Doing that should be easy, seeing as Evelyn had chosen to work for a rival magazine, Sandra mused.

    If only her mother were like other stepmoms and was not a miss goody two shoes, then it would have been easier to have all that was Evelyn''s, but no. Her mother just had to act like a goddamned fucking saint.

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12

    During dinner at the Quinn''s residence, Sandra decided to bring up Evelyn''s return.

    "Dad," she started, and both her parents looked at her when they detected the seriousness in her voice.

    "Yes, dear?" Eric Quinn responded.

    "Is there a problem?" Sandra''s mom, ire, asked, her concern evident in her voice as she stopped eating to look at her daughter. Eric also nced at Sandra with concern in his eyes.

    "Is everything okay?" he asked when Sandra looked at them hesitantly as if she was trying not to say something.

    Seeing that she had both their attention, she sighed deeply, "I''m not sure how to bring this up," she said, looking distressed.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

    "You''re not sure how to bring what up? Is there a problem?" ire asked again, looking even more concerned now.

    "Go on and tell us if there is a problem""" Eric urged her.

    Sandra sighed deeply as she looked down at her te, "Has either of you heard from Evelyn? Are you aware that she is back?" she asked, and both her mother and stepfather exchanged nces. "Evelyn is back? How do you know that?" ire asked in concern while Eric looked at Sandra, waiting for her to answer the question.

    "Yes. Michael called to inform me that he ran into her today at Stone Corp," Sandra said and then forced a smile.

    "Are you sure about that? Is it possible that Evelyn would have returned but chose to stay away from home?" ire asked while Eric frowned, not wanting to believe that his daughter was back, and she did not deem it fit toe see them.

    None of them had heard a word from her since she left that morning six years ago, and all attempts to locate her had been futile.

    Seeing the disapproval on her stepfather''s face, Sandra decided to continue, "I was worried too, so I asked Michael to follow her and see where she stayed and what she was up to. She is staying at The Stone Pce.

    suppose that means she is only here because her magazine..." she stopped and pressed her lips together as though she had made a slip.

    "Her magazine? What magazine?" Her stepfather asked with narrowed eyes.

    Sandra bit her lower lip as though she was scared of speaking and causing trouble.

    "What magazine?" He insisted, and she wriggled her hands helplessly.

    "I wasn''t going to say anything until I confirmed, but it seems Evelyn now works for a rival magazine.

    Empowered, to be precise. And she visited Stone Corps to ask Derek Stone for an exclusive interview," she said, looking sad and then forced a smile.

    "But you don''t have to worry, Dad. I''m sure she''s only working there for the time being, and she..."

    Eric set down his cutlery with a tter. "First, she embarrassed me by calling off her wedding on the very day of her wedding. And then she left home. Now she is back, and instead ofing home to ask for forgiveness, she is working with my rivals?" Eric asked, his disappointment evident in his voice, and Sandra hid a smirk. This was exactly what she wanted.

    "Sandra, what exactly did Michael say? Did he speak with her? Did she say anything to him?" ire asked, her voice tight with concern.

    "She didn''t talk to him. He said shepletely ignored him." Sandra added, her toneced with disappointment.

    "Poor Michael. I can''t believe I raised such a child,"

    Eric said with displeasure.

    "Honey, you shouldn''t be too hasty..." one look from her husband and ire mped her lips together.

    She believed that Evelyn had reasons for doing what she did six years ago, and she had kept ming herself for not doing anything to stop her from leaving.

    Over the years, she had asked herself if she would have stayed back and watched Sandra leave if it were Sandra and not Evelyn. Now, she believed this was her chance to right her wrong.

    She knew that Evelyn was just as stubborn as her father, and when they both set their minds on a path, it was difficult to convince them otherwise. But she was determined to put things right. "Why don''t we go see her at the hotel tomorrow? I''ve missed her so much," Sandra said with a pout.

    "Yes. We should go see her, ire said, turning to her husband, but without saying a word, he pushed away from the table and walked away.

    Immediately, ire followed her husband, and the moment they walked into their bedroom, she looked at him, "I think you hurt her deep if she won''t even tell us she''s back after six years," ire said, and Eric red at her.

    "I hurt her? How do you think I felt after she disgraced me in that manner? How could she disappear on the eve of her wedding, return the next morning reeking of male cologne, and decide she''s no longer carrying on with the wedding?" Eric asked angrily.

    "I understand you, but don''t you think you handled it the wrong way? She''s still your daughter, and you should have tried to find out why she did that in the first ce and not threatened her in that manner. I''m sure her emotions were hurt, and that''s why she left the way she did," ire said. Even though Eric knew that and had been beating himself over it since then, his pride held him back from admitting it. "If she had any tangible reason for calling off the wedding, she should have said so instead of just announcing it to my face like that. If she would rather stay at a hotel thane home to us, then let her be. I have other important things to worry about, Eric said before getting on the bed and turning his back to ire.

    ire sighed as she watched her husband. No matter what he said, she was determined to see Evelyn and find out what actually happened six years ago.

    Revealing the truth was the only way to repair her family and fix the chasm between father and daughter.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13

    The next morning, ire set out for The Stone''s Pce Hotel to visit Evelyn, determined to fix things.

    The moment she arrived at the reception, she informed them she was there to see her daughter, and the receptionist put a call across to Evelyn to get her permissions As ire took the elevator up to Evelyn''s suite, she thought about Evelyn and how much she had missed her.

    Once she reached Evelyn''s door, she knocked, and after a moment, the door opened to reveal Evelyn standing there, looking a bit surprised but quite happy to see her. "Evelyn? It''s really you," ire said in surprise, pulling Evelyn into an embrace.

    "I couldn''t believe it when the receptionist said my Mom was here to see me," Evelyn said, feeling rxed in ire''s embrace.

    Although Sandra had betrayed her and she harbored resentment towards Sandra, ire had always been a good stepmother, and Evelyn loved her.

    After they pulled apart, ire looked Evelyn over.

    "You''ve changed a lot, Evie," she said, stepping inside when Evelyn held out the door for her to go in.

    Evelyn grinned. "It''s been six years, after all," Evelyn replied as they settled into the living area of the suite.

    "How did you know I was back and staying here?" Evelyn asked curiously, even though a part of her could already tell it was Michael.

    "Good news, fly fast," ire said, and then looked at Evelyn with interest, "Don''t tell me you didn''t want us to know you were in the country and you weren''t nning oning home," ire asked, but Evelyn quickly shook her head.

    "It''s not that. It''s just..." her words trailed off when Samantha and Maya walked out of Maya''s room.

    Samantha, who had wanted to plead with her mother to let her go y at the yground since Evelyn had given strict orders to Maya not to let her step out of their suite, paused when she saw that they had a visitor.

    ire smiled warmly when her eyes and Samantha''s connected. And although she wanted to ask who the child was, but since she had stepped out with Maya, ire naturally assumed the child was Maya''s. "Hello, cutie pie! Has anyone told you you look really beautiful?" ire asked, smiling warmly at Samantha, who returned the smile with a blush.

    "Yes, thank you, ma''am. My mommy tells me that every day. You look pretty too, doesn''t she, mommy?" Samantha asked, looking up at Evelyn, and then it became clear to ire who the child belonged to. Evelyn smiled fondly. Although she would have preferred to keep Samantha hidden from her family a bit longer, it was no longer possible. "Yes, she does, pumpkin, and guess what? This beautifuldy here is your grandmother," Evelyn said, confirming ire''s suspicions.

    ire''s eyes widened in surprise as she turned to Evelyn. "Evie? Is she your daughter?" she asked, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Yes, she is. Her name is Samantha. Sam, say hello to your grandmother," Evelyn said and ire tried to conceal her surprise and curiosity as she held out her hand to Samantha.

    "Hello, Sam. It''s so wonderful to meet you," she said, and Samantha beamed happily as she went to her.

    "Hi, Grandma!" she said as she began to endlessly ask ire questions about herself, such as if she had a grandfather too and when she would see him.

    As ire answered Samantha''s questions, she, in turn, asked questions of her own. She wanted to know Samantha''s age, favorite colors, and favorite food.

    Evelyn felt nervous as she watched the interaction.

    Now that ire had seen Samantha, she knew the next conversation would be difficult, but she was grateful for the warm start.

    Knowing ire had probablye to talk to her, Evelyn then dismissed Maya and Samantha.

    Immediately after Maya left with Samantha, ire turned to Evelyn.

    "She is five? Evelyn, why didn''t you tell us?" ire asked, her disappointment evident.

    "What exactly happened six years ago? Why didn''t you tell us about Sam? Did you call off the wedding because of the pregnancy? Or did you find out about it after you left? Is she Michael''s?" ire asked gently, wanting to understand what was going on, but Evelyn shook her head.

    "No, she is not Michael''s. And I only found out about the pregnancy after I left the country," she said, and ire nodded.

    "Then why did you call off the wedding? And who is her father?" ire pressed, and Evelyn''s expression grew somber.

    "Mom, some things are better left in the past. I don''t want to dredge up old memories. Let''s just say I had my reasons," Evelyn said, and ire sighed deeply.

    "Can''t you share your reasons with me?" ire pleaded, but Evelyn shook her head.

    There was no way she was going to tell ire what Sandra or Michael had done. It would break ire to know what Sandra had done.

    "I''m sorry. I can''t," she said simply.

    "Then, can you at least tell me who Sam''s father is? Are you both married now?" ire asked, ncing at Evelyn''s fingers.

    "No. We are not. And I''m sorry I can''t tell you who he is either. Is Dad aware that you''re here?" Evelyn asked, changing the subject.

    "Yes, he is. I''m so sorry your father reacted that way, and I couldn''t stop him. He was too disappointed to think straight at the time. We miss you, Eve, we all do, especially Sandra. She felt really bad knowing you were back but didn''t reach out to her. Why don''t youe back home?" ire asked, but Evelyn shook her head.

    "Thanks, Mom, but I don''t think that''s a good idea-"

    "Why not? We are your family, Evie. We also need to spend time with Sam and get to know her. I know she would want that too, soe home, please?"

    +5

    Although she knew she wouldn''t go home since she wouldn''t be able to stand Sandra, Evelyn sighed. "I will think about it," she said, and ire nodded. "And what is this I hear about you working at Empowered? Are you doing it to spite your father?" ire asked, and Evelyn smiled.

    "I guess Michael found out about that and told you.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

    No, I''m not doing it to spite him. This is me trying to make a living for myself and my daughter after my father cut me off, Evelyn said, and ire sighed. "I really hope you both settle your differences, Evie," ire said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "I''m sure we will when the time is right. So, try not to worry too much about us," Evelyn said, and after catching up for some time, ire decided to leave.

    As Evelyn escorted ire to her car, ire remembered something. "Lest I forget, we are having a party for our twenty-third wedding anniversary in two weeks. It would mean a lot to me if you could attend whether or not you have decided to move into the house," ire said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "I will keep it in mind," she said, embracing ire.

    As she watched ire drive off, her mind raced with thoughts.

    She had managed to keep Samantha a secret for so long, but with ire''s visit and the potential family gathering, everything seemed on the verge ofing out.

    She thought about her work and the fact that Derek, her daughter''s father, was also Michael''s cousin, and she couldn''t help feeling like everything was falling apart for her.

    She had thought almost marrying Michael was a mistake, but having sex with a random stranger had been an even bigger mistake, and the thought of it made her feel guilty that she was regretting having Samantha.

    Maybe she shouldn''t have returned in the first ce.

    Coming back here was a huge mistake.

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14

    After ire had left, Evelyn sat by her bedroom window, a cup of coffee in hand, still contemting the best possible course of action for her situation. Samantha yed quietly with her toys on the bed, herughter aforting background melody to Evelyn''s scattered thoughts.

    As she sipped from her coffee, lost in thoughts, her phone buzzed, jolting her from her reverie.

    She checked the caller ID and her heart skipped a beat when she saw it was Susan. Evelyn took a deep breath before receiving the call.

    "Good morning, Ma''am," she greeted trying to soundposed even though she was far from it.

    Evelyn''s brows drew together in a frown when she heard Susan''s happyugh on the other end of the phone.

    "Good morning, Evelyn! How are you? I knew you were indeed the best person for this task," Susan said, her voice resonating with joy.

    Confused, Evelyn frowned and asked, "Is everything okay? Did something happen?"

    "Of course, something happened and it''s thanks to you," Susan said again and Evelyn''s frown deepened.

    "Me?"

    "Yes. In just a day you got Derek Stone to agree to the interview. Isn''t that worth celebrating? A feat that so many others couldn''t aplish, yet you did it! I''m so proud of you, Evelyn," Susan said triumphantly and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat.

    "What? He agreed? How?" Evelyn asked even though a part of her already knew it was because of their history.

    "I should be asking you that. What did you do? What did you say to him?" Susan asked, still sounding very excited.

    "What did he say?" Evelyn asked, trying to figure out what was going on and what Derek was thinking.

    "Well, he said he would do it, but he gave a condition.

    Something pretty simple if you ask me," Susan said, and Evelyn frowned.

    "A condition? What kind of condition?"

    "He requested that you work with him for a month before the interview. He wants you to understudy him sort of. That wouldn''t be a problem for you, right?" Susan asked and Evelyn''s grip tightened on her phone.

    "Work with him? For a month? Why? Isn''t that too much? Maybe Wes should handle this project since I already got him to agree..."

    "That''s not possible," Susan cut in, her tone turning serious. "Mr Stone specifically requested that it''s you who should do it. He said there would be no interview if you don''t do it," Susan said and a heavy silence settled between them.

    Evelyn felt a mix of dread and frustration building within her. Was it possible for her to work so closely with him for a month without having him learn about her child? His child?

    Sensing her reluctance, Susan''s voice softened but remained firm. "Evelyn, you know what is at stake, here. I personally rmended you and I won''t be happy if you don''t go through with this. And you should know that even the management wouldn''t be happy with you if we lost this opportunity because you refused to follow through. Remember, if you seed, the promotion is yours, as promised," Susan reminded her and Evelyn closed her eyes, her mind racing.

    She had worked too hard to let this opportunity slip away because of her fear. It was just for a month and as long as they kept things professional, he wouldn''t find out about Samantha being his child. No one would know about it as long as she kept it to herself.

    "Alright. I will do it," she said and after ending the call,

    Evelyn decided to go see Derek in his office.

    Even though she had agreed to it, she wanted to know why he would attach such a condition to the interview.

    Having decided that she got dressed, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts as she made her way to Stone Corp.

    A few minutester, she was standing in front of Derek''s secretary who ushered her in immediately she saw her, saying Derek had been expecting her.

    The moment Evelyn stepped inside the office, Derek looked up from his desk, a smug expression on his face.

    "Wee back. I''ve been expecting you," he said, leaning back in his chair.

    Evelyn forced a calm exterior, though inside she was seething. "Why did you attach that condition if you were going to agree to do the interview?" she asked and Derek chuckled as he looked at her, clearly amused by her reaction.

    "Isn''t it obvious?"

    "No, it''s not. Please tell me," she said and he grinned.

    "For two reasons. First to punish you for forgetting all about me and not even recognizing me," he said and she scoffed.

    "Things like that happen. It''s been over six years..."

    "Yet I took one look at you and I remembered you," he pointed out.

    "In case you have forgotten, I wasn''t in a clear state of mind when we met..."

    "But you were when I made love to you," he said, and her heart skipped a beat.

    "You''re only being petty, Mr Stone, admit it," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

    "I don''t care," he said, his tone indifferent. "Besides, being petty is not so bad if it gets you here."

    "And what''s your second reason?" she asked, since he had said he had two reasons.

    "I want us to get to know each other since I n to be your man," he said and she rolled her eyes. "That''s not going to happen."

    "It is going to happen," he said with confidence that made her doubt herself.

    "And now that I think about it, I think there is a third reason. I want to also reward you..."

    "Oh, please. You can''t say you''re doing something to punish me and reward me at the same time," she said, cutting him off.

    "If I don''t attach this condition anyone else from yourpany would be asked to take your ce. But now, you will be the only one with ess to me. Everyone will wonder what you said and what you did to convince me. So, what is it going to be? Are you going to ept my condition or reject it and risk not getting promoted or even losing your job?" he asked and Evelyn''s eyes narrowed suspiciously. "And how do you know my promotion is tied to this assignment?" she asked and Derek''s smile widened.

    "I have my sources, Eve," he said and Evelyn eyed him with displeasure.

    "Don''t call me that."

    "Alright, baby," he said and Evelyn scowled at him while he grinned back at her.

    Neither of them said a word as Evelyn considered her options. She hated the idea of being at his mercy this way but she couldn''t afford to jeopardize her career.

    She had given her consent to Susan and was only here to get her answers so she would know how to better handle him.

    "So, what''s your choice, Evelyn? Are you doing it or not?" Derek asked curiously, his gaze unwavering.

    As if she had a choice. She mused as she took a deep breath. "I have my own condition," she said and he raised a brow.

    "Let''s hear it."

    "I will work with you for a month as long as you keep things professional and you don''t cross the line," she stated and Derek''s eyes gleamed with amusement.

    "I can''t promise you that I won''t cross any lines, Evelyn. As a matter of fact, I intend to cross every single line you draw. You crossed mine six years, remember?" His eyes gleamed with amusement as he watched her blush.

    "Can''t we forget the past?" She asked quietly.Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

    "No. I can''t. The past is what led us here, and I''ve spent all this time thinking about that past. You can''t expect me not to cross lines," he said and she drew a deep breath.

    "But you don''t have to worry. I won''t force myself on you. As long as you are able to resist my advances in this one month, I won''t force myself on you," he promised. That was good enough for her, Evelyn thought with a nod. "Fine. Deal," she said extending her hand for a handshake.

    Derek rose, and instead of taking her hand, he went around the table to meet her.

    He took her hand and then he raised it to his lips and kissed her palm, "Deal." He said with a roguish smile that caused her heart skip a beat and she swallowed hard. Evelyn knew the next month would be a test of her resolve, a bncing act between professional duty and personal history but she would have to stand her ground. As she left his office, Evelyn was determined to see their arrangement through, for her career and for the chance to make a name for herself.

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15

    Evelyn leaned back against the cool leather seat of the cab, her mind buzzing with the events of the morning.

    First, was the visit with her stepmom, followed by Susan''s call, and then her visit to Derek''s office. She couldn''t shake the feeling that everything was moving too fast.

    The cityscape blurred past her window as she lost herself in thought, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the edges of her phone.

    Now that she had agreed to work with Derek and she knew she had secured the interview with him, she needed to find an apartment, a safe ce where she and Samantha could stay, away from Derek''s reach.

    The thought of Derek, Michael''s cousin finding out he was Samantha''s father, and everyone else getting to know about it too sent a shiver down her spine.

    She couldn''t let him know about Samantha. She couldn''t let anyone know that she had been with Michael''s cousin and had a child for him. Not even her family could know about it.

    It was then that a sudden realization struck her. She needed to call ire and make sure Samantha remained a secret for a bit longer.

    If ire mentioned Samantha to her dad and Sandra and the news of it got to Michael and from Michael to Derek, he would know Samantha was his judging by her age since she wasn''t Michael''s.

    This made her pause for a moment as she wondered if Derek knew who she was. They had spoken over the phone a couple of times in the past during her rtionship with Michael.

    Was he aware that she was that Evelyn- Michael''s fiancee? Had Michael told him about her? If so, why was he still doing this? She mused.

    Shaking off the thought, she took a deep breath and dialed ire''s number, which she had gotten from her earlier during her visit, hoping that she wasn''t toote and ire had not told them about Sam yet.

    She counted the rings, each one increasing her anxiety until, on the fourth ring, ire''s familiar voice answered, sounding pleasantly surprised.

    "Evelyn! I didn''t expect to hear from you so soon.

    Please tell me you''re calling because you have decided to move back into the house?" ire''s voice held a note of hope.

    Evelynughed softly, though her thoughts were far from lighthearted. "No, Mom. That''s not why I called, but I do have a favor to ask."

    "Anything, sweetheart," ire replied without hesitation.

    Evelyn hesitated for a moment, then plunged ahead.

    "You haven''t told either Dad or Sandra about Sam yet, have you?" She asked hopefully.

    "No. I was hoping to tell them during dinner. Why?" ire said and Evelyn let out a sigh of relief, d that she had called now.

    "It''s just that I need you to keep Samantha a secret for now. I don''t want Dad or Sandra to know about her just yet."

    There was a brief pause on the other end before ire spoke again, her voice gentle but firm. "If that''s what you want, Evelyn. But you know you will have to tell your father about his grandchild eventually, especially if you''re going to bring Sam to the anniversary party."From N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn sighed as she nced out the window at the passing buildings, trying to collect her thoughts. "I can''t bring Sam to the party, Mom. But I promise I''ll tell Dad about her after a month, but right now, I need to keep her out of this."

    "Why a month?" ire asked curiously.

    "I just need to settle down first. When I''m settled I will tell him. But until then I want this to remain between us. Please."

    ire sighed, but there was understanding in her voice. "Alright, if that''s what you need. But remember, secrets have a way ofing out, Evie. Be careful."

    "I will, Mom. Thank you." Evelyn hung up, feeling a mix of relief and worry. She had bought herself some time, but she knew it wasn''t much. She needed to act quickly.

    The cab pulled up to The Stone''s Pce Hotel, and Evelyn stepped out, her determination renewed. She made her way through the grand lobby, nodding absently at the doorman who greeted her. Her thoughts were too tangled to focus on pleasantries.

    As she rode the elevator up to her suite, Evelyn pulled out her phone again and began searching for real estate listings. She needed to find a ce quickly, somewhere safe and discreet. The elevator doors opened, and she stepped out, still scrolling through listings.

    Inside the suite, Samantha was ying quietly with her toys, and Maya was tidying up. The sight of her daughter brought a wave of love and a pang of guilt.

    Samantha deserved to know her father. She knew that, but she couldn''t give her that.

    Perhaps if Derek were someone else. If he wasn''t Michael''s cousin it would have been different. But right now it wasplicated and she couldn''t bring Samantha into the mess.

    "Mommy, you''re back!" Samantha eximed, running over to hug Evelyn.

    Evelyn scooped her up, holding her tightly. "Yes, sweetheart. Did you have fun with Aunt Maya?"

    Samantha nodded enthusiastically. "We yed with my new dolls. Aunt Maya says they''re very pretty."

    Evelyn smiled, setting Samantha down. "That''s wonderful. Can you y a bit longer? Mommy needs to make some phone calls."

    Samantha nodded and returned to her toys, and Evelyn went to the bedroom, closing the door softly behind her. She needed to focus, to find a ce where they could be safe. The urgency of the situation pressed down on her as she dialed the number of a real estate agent she had found online.

    "Hello, this is Evelyn Quinn. I''m looking for an apartment, something avable immediately."

    The conversation moved quickly, and Evelyn arranged to see several apartments over the weekend.

    As she hung up and returned to the room, she felt a glimmer of hope. They could move out of the hotel soon, and start fresh somewhere new.

    But beneath that hope, there was still a gnawing fear.

    She was keeping too many secrets, and she knew it was only a matter of time before they caught up with her.

    Evelyn sat down on the edge of the bed, her thoughts heavy. She had to be strong, for Samantha''s sake. She had to protect her daughter and give her stability, no matter what.

 Chapter 16

    Chapter

    16

    As evening approached, Evelyn busied herself with preparations to move them out of the Stone Pce Hotel to some other Hotel away from Derek.

    She doubted that by going to check out apartments over the weekend she would be able to move immediately into one, so it was better they moved to a different hotel for the time being. Samantha watched her curiously as she packed their bags, sensing the change but not understanding it.

    Evelyn tried to keep things light, but the tension was palpable.

    "Mommy, are we traveling again?" Samantha asked after watching for some time.

    "No, darling. We are not traveling. Tomorrow Mommy is going to move you to a morefortable ce," Evelyn said, shing her a smile.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.

    "But I like it here. Aunt Maya likes it too," Samantha protested, and Evelyn paused to look at her.

    "I''m sure you do, pumpkin, but doesn''t mommy''s feelings count too?" Evelyn asked with a yful pout and Samantha sighed.

    "Will the new ce have a yground?" She asked hopefully.

    "I''m sorry, darling, I don''t think so, Evelyn admitted since she had a policy of not lying to her daughter.

    Samantha''s face fell, breaking Evelyn''s heart. Evelyn reached out a hand to her and when Samantha took it, she drew her to sit on herp, "We won''t be there for long, I promise. And once we move to our own ce, I will make sure you can visit the nearest parks often and we can even go to the amusement park together," Evelyn promised.

    Samantha looked up into her face, "Before then, can I go y at the yground?"

    "No..."

    "Please, Mommy," Samantha pleaded, looking at her with puppy eyes.

    Unable to resist, Evelyn sighed. What harm coulde from letting her y at the yground?

    It wasn''t like Derek would take one look at her and know who she was. And she doubted a busy man like Derek would pay any attention to the kids at the yground.

    Maybe she was overthinking everything, Evelyn decided. As long as he doesn''t see her and Samantha together, everything should be fine.

    "Alright. But you must promise me that you won''t talk to strangers," Evelyn warned.

    "What if I see Rek?" Samantha asked since she was hoping to see him again.

    "You met Rek already, so he is not a stranger"" Evelyn said, still assuming Rek was a little boy.

    "Yaay!" Samantha screamed happily as she got down from Evelyn''sp and ran over to Maya''s room to inform her that they could go to the yground.

    Evelyn smiled as she watched her go, "Make sure you are well covered before you leave," she called out to Samantha.

    As Samantha and Maya headed for the yground, Samantha sighted Derek and let go of Maya''s hand as she ran up to him.

    "Rek!" She called out excitedly.

    Derek turned upon hearing the little girl''s voice and he smiled when he recognized her.

    Derek crouched down as she got close to him, "Hey, Sam! How are you doing?" He asked, and Maya who had beening to get hold of her, let her be but stood a few feet away. "I''m fine. I''m going to the yground now," she said

    excitedly.

    "That''s nice. I trust you''re going to have lots of fun at the yground," Derek said and she bobbed her head.

    "Mommy said we are leaving tomorrow so I might not see you again, she said with a pout.

    "Oh, dear. I''m going to miss seeing you around," Derek said, since this was the third time he had seen her already even if it was only the second time he was talking to her. "Will you y with me?" She asked hopefully.

    "y with you?" Derek asked, amused, "What about your dad?"

    Samantha shook her head, "Mommy says I''m special and I don''t have a daddy," she said, and Derek smiled as he nced at Maya.

    That was a funny way to make a child feel special, he mused.

    "Tell you what, I will go in and handle my little business, and then I will meet you at the yground.

    Is that cool?" He asked and she held out her little finger.

    "Pinky swear?" She asked, and he chuckled as he locked his finger with hers.

    "Pinky promise," he assured her as he ruffled her hair and straightened up.

    "Mr Stone, I didn''t realize you had a little girl," one of the hotel patrons said as she stopped beside him.

    Derek smiled, "She''s not mine. She''s a guest here. My little friend who cares about my sight. Right, Sam?" He asked, and she bobbed her head. "She''s not yours? Could have fooled me. She looks a lot like you," the patron said, and Maya decided it was time to leave Derek to his business. "Let''s go, Sam. Mr Derek is busy," Maya called and Samantha waved at Derek as she left with Maya.

    "I see you''re checking out," Derek said, noting that thedy was with her luggage.

    "Yes. s, my stay here is over. Your service here is top-notch as always," she said and Derek bowed politely and bid her farewell.

    Alone now, Derek continued on the mission he was going on before Samantha interrupted him. He had a silly grin on his face as he rode the elevator to Evelyn''s floor.

    He had subtly made inquiries from her boss to find out where she was staying, under the pretense that he would like to amodate her at his hotel for the duration of their arrangement if she didn''t have a ce of her own yet, and he had been pleasantly surprised to know that she was right there where he wanted her. Just within his reach.

    Standing by the door, he rang the doorbell and waited patiently for her to answer the door.

    Evelyn, who was enjoying a warm bath, quickly grabbed her bathrobe and stepped out of the tub to go get the door thinking it was Maya and Samantha.

    The moment Evelyn opened the door, her heart skipped a beat and she froze when she saw Derek standing there with a grin on his face.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17

    Evelyn stared at Derek, her heart pounding in her chest. Recovering quickly from the initial shock, her hands moved involuntarily to the front of her bathrobe and she held it tightly together. "What are you doing here? What do you want?"

    Derek''s grin widened. "May Ie in?"

    "Certainly not," she snapped.

    His eyes glinted mischievously. "You can either let me in, or we can stand here with you dressed in your bathrobe for everyone to see and specte about our rtionship."

    Her eyes darted to the corridor. Thest thing she needed was gossip. Reluctantly, she stepped aside.

    "Fine,e in."

    Derek stepped into the room, his presence filling the space. Evelyn closed the door behind him, her mind racing. Derek couldn''t be here. What if Samantha returned now? She needed to think fast. "Excuse me for a moment," she said, walking into the bedroom. She quickly grabbed her phone and sent a text to Maya, asking her to keep Samantha out for a while longer.

    Hearing movement behind her, she turned to see Derek approaching and she stiffened. "What are you doing?"

    "By here you mean, here in your room, here in your suite, or here in this Hotel?" He asked with an innocent smile, his gaze sweeping over her.

    She clenched her jaw, "I didn''t invite you into my room. It is rude to barge into my room..." she trailed off when he chuckled.

    "What''s funny?" She asked, ring at him.

    "You. And the fact that you think I''m being rude when you did the very same thing six years ago. You even did worse. At least I''m not stripping like you did," he said, and her cheeks med. "Seeing you in a hotel room, dressed in a bathrobe, brings back memories," he drawled.

    "I apologize for what happened then. I wasn''t in my right senses," she said without meeting his gaze.

    "Like I''m not in mine right now," he said, taking a step forward and she instinctively took a step back.

    "Things are different. It''s not the same," she said, trying to reason with him.

    "How so? Because you''re ady and I''m a man? You can get away with seducing me that way, but I can''t?" He asked, holding her gaze.

    "I was immature. I didn''t know what I was doing. I acted out of my pain and foolishness and I swear to God, I regret it," she said, telling herself inwardly that she didn''t regret having Samantha but she only regretted all that led up to it.

    "You regret it? Does that mean you didn''t enjoy it?

    Cause I remember differently," he asked, his voice low.

    She looked away, refusing to answer. "I suggest we stick to business and not talk about the past."

    He chuckled softly. "But I''m here to talk about the past." He said, taking another step forward.

    Annoyed and tired of rehashing the past, she met his gaze, her resolve hardening. "What do you want, Mr Stone? Are you here to y around or discuss business? If you n on making a habit of these visits, I will have to move to a different hotel." She threatened.

    Derek raised his hands in mock surrender. "Alright.

    Alright. No need to get all nasty. I came to discuss our arrangement."

    "Then let''s do so," she said, leading him back to the living area.

    "So. What did you want to discuss about it? Didn''t we conclude on it earlier at your office?" She asked with a raised brow as they both sat down.

    "We didn''t talk about when you''d be resuming and your working hours," he pointed out.

    "I''m resuming tomorrow. The sooner we start the better. And as for the working hours, it shouldn''t exceed your usual office hours, should it?" She asked, and he paused, studying her.

    "I''m d I came to have this conversation with you. I can see you''re mistaken," he said, and she frowned.

    "What do you mean?"

    "You''re going to be spending the next month closely by my side. It is not restricted to only my office hours.

    You will go wherever I go with me. If I''m going on any trips, you''reing with me. You will spend your weekdays and weekends with me..."

    "Absolutely not! That''s not going to be possible," she cut in before he could finish, "There is no way I can do that. I have other responsibilities."

    "What responsibility could you possibly have aside from your job? You''re not married, you do not have kids, and your boss has assured me that in the next month, you''re mine. So, what else could there be?" He asked, and she shook her head.

    "I can do weekdays, but I can''t work with you on weekends. And I can''t travel with you either. I''m sorry."

    "Does that mean you''re backing out of our agreement?" He asked and she frowned.

    "Why are you really doing this? What''s the big deal about an interview with you that you have to bring up all of these ridiculous rules?" She asked, clearly exasperated.

    "Why don''t you find out?" He said with a shrug.

    Evelyn took a deep breath, "My weekends are important to me."

    "It''s just four weekends. I''m not asking for all the weekends of your life. It''s up to you to decide whether you will do it or not. How can you say you''ve understudied me if you only get to know about me during work hours when I''m ying my official role?

    You have to spend the weekend with me getting to know other parts of my life. My family, my hobbies, my interests."

    "It''s an interview, not a rtionship. I don''t need to know everything about you," she said stubbornly.

    "That''s for me to decide not you. It''s that or nothing.

    I''ve drafted out the details of the arrangement. If you''re interested, you cane over to the office tomorrow to resume and sign the agreement form...From N?velDrama.Org.

    "There is an agreement form?" She asked in disbelief.

    Derek rose, "Of course, there is. You have to assure me you will only write about all you see and learn about me sincerely and not what you think. Whatever you put out about me has to be objective." Evelyn sighed as she rose, "Is there anything else I need to know before tomorrow?"

    "I think that will be it. As much as I enjoy yourpany, I''m sorry I have to leave now. I have an appointment with a friend," he said, thinking of Samantha who he believed was expecting him at the yground. "That''s fine, Mr Stone..."

    "Please call me, Derek. Even though the introduction camete, I believe we''ve long past this stage. Don''t you agree, Eve?" He asked and she forced a smile.

    "I don''t. But whatever you say," she said as she escorted him to the door.

    "And you should know that one of the benefits of our arrangement includes taking care of your amodation and transportation. I could upgrade your suite if you''d..."

    "I''m fine where I am""" she replied tersely.

    +5

    "If you say so. I''m looking forward to working with you," he said with a satisfied smile on his face.

    She opened the door, gesturing for him to leave. The moment he stepped outside, she held his gaze. "Next time,municate through the phone. No more unannounced visits." Before he could respond, she shut the door in his face and leaned against it with a heavy sigh. d that he was gone.

    Derek grinned as he looked at the door. That had gone quite well. Better than he imagined, he thought as he turned around and headed for his suite on the top floor.

    He mentally patted himself on the back foring up with those new conditions on the spur of the moment.

    He was just going to ask the secretary to print an agreement form before she arrives.

    Spending the weekends and going on trips together would definitely be a nice way to seduce her and sweep her off her feet, he thought with a chuckle.

 Chapter 18

    18

    Derek strode through the hotel grounds, as he made his way to the yground. The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the yground where the beautiful sounds of children''sughter filled the air. He smiled as he approached, d for the initiative that had made him think of building a yground and making the Hotel child-friendly.

    Looking around, he spotted Samantha on the swings, her legs pumping to gain height, her face a picture of pure joy. Maya stood nearby, her watchful eyes tracking the little girl''s movements. When Samantha turned and saw Derek, her face lit up even more, and she called out to him, waving energetically.

    "Rek!" she shouted, her voice carrying across the yground. Derek waved back and quickened his pace, feeling a strange warmth spread through his chest.

    When he reached them, Samantha had already slowed her swing, her excitement contagious.

    "Hey, Sam! I see you''re having a lot of fun," Derek said, crouching down to her level.

    "Yes! But it''s more fun when someone pushes me, she said, her eyes twinkling with hope.

    Maya started to step forward. "I offered to push you."

    "I don''t want you. I want Rek," Samantha said, and Derek shed Maya a reassuring smile as he straightened.

    "It''s okay. I''ve got this. You can take a break if you don''t mind," he said, and Maya hesitated but then nodded, grateful for the reprieve. She moved to a nearby bench, keeping a close eye on them. Derek took his ce behind the swing, giving it a gentle push. Samantha''s giggles filled the air as she soared higher.

    "Do you like swinging, that much?" he asked and Samantha bobbed her head.

    "I love it! It feels like flying," she said, her voice filled with awe.

    Derek continued to push, his movements steady and controlled. "How often have you been here?"

    "Only once. Mommy won''t let mee," she said, her small hands gripping the swing tightly.

    "Why? Did you get into a fight when you came here?" Derek asked curiously and Samantha shook her head.

    "No. I didn''t. She says she doesn''t like it here and we have to leave," Samantha said sadly and Derek stopped pushing her. "She doesn''t?" Derek asked, ncing at Maya in surprise.

    "Yes."

    "If you''re that sad about leaving, I could talk to your mommy for you so you don''t have to leave," Derek offered, ncing at Maya.

    Samantha nced at Derek, her brows furrowing in confusion and curiosity. "Do you know my mommy?" she asked and Derek chuckled, reminding himself that she was truly a kid otherwise she would have realized that he had seen her with her mom several times.

    "Of course, I know your mommy, Sam. I''m sure she would agree to stay here if I talked to her. Should I talk to her?" Derek told her but she shook her head.

    "Mommy already promised to take me to the nearest parks and let me go to amusement parks too," Samantha said and Derek nodded.

    "That''s fair then. I will miss you, Sam," Derek said and Samantha smiled.

    "I will miss you too, Rek. Maybe since you know my mom, why don''t you ask for her number so that we can talk over the phone," she suggested and Derek raised a brow.

    "Will she give me her number?" he asked and Samantha nodded.

    "If you tell her you''re my friend, Rek, she will give you her number," Samantha said and Derek nodded, even though it was starting to sound like Samantha''s mom was someone else.

    "Well, your mommy sounds wonderful," he said, as he resumed pushing the swing gently, deciding to ask Maya for the number and see if she was truly Samantha''s mom or someone else.

    Derek continued to push Samantha on the swing, theirughter mingling with the evening breeze as they talked about themselves.

    In that moment, he felt a connection he hadn''t anticipated, a bond that was forming with this little girl who had unknowingly brought a bit of light into his life.

    Maya watched them from her bench, a soft smile ying on her lips. She could see the genuine affection in Derek''s actions and the joy in Samantha''s face. If one didn''t know better they would think Derek was Samantha''s daddy.

    Derek nced at Maya and when he saw how fondly she was looking at them, he decided to go ask for the number so he could leave.

    Just before he could make the move, Maya''s phone buzzed in her pocket and she took the call when she saw that it was Evelyn, who had called to ask her to bring Samantha back.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    After the call, Maya approached Samantha and Derek and he smiled at her, wanting to ask for the number but before he could, Maya spoke.

    "I''m sorry, Mr. Derek, but we need to head back inside now," Maya said and Derek nodded.

    Still wanting to ask, he opened his mouth but turned to look at Samantha when she tugged at his sleeve.

    "Rek, I like you," she said and Derek smiled warmly.

    "I like you too," he said, ruffling her hair.

    "I want you to be my daddy," she said and Maya''s eyes widened in dismay.

    "Maya!" She scolded then nced at Derek, "I''m sorry about that."

    "It''s alright," Derek assured her.

    "Will I see you again?" Samantha asked hopefully.

    "We will see, Sam, If your mommy will let us," he said ncing at Maya and she shrugged.

    "We will see about that. Let''s go in, Sam," Maya said and took Sam away with her while Derek watched them leave, thinking that Maya probably didn''t want him to see Samantha again because of Samantha''s awkward request.

    "Sam, you can''t go about telling strangers to be your daddy," Maya scolded her as they got into the elevator.

    "But Rek is my friend," Samantha pointed out.

    "Your mommy won''t be happy to know you said that to him," Maya said and Samantha frowned.

    "You won''t tell her, will you?" She asked, and Maya shook her head.

    "If you promise me you won''t do that again, then it will be our little secret," she said holding out her pinky finger.

    "Pinky promise," Samantha said, locking her finger with Maya''s.

    When they reached their suite, Samantha burst through the door with a loud, "Mommy, we''re back!"

    Evelyn, who had been pacing the room anxiously, turned to them with a relieved smile. "Wee back, sweetie. Did you have fun?" she asked and Samantha nodded enthusiastically.

    "Yes, Mommy! I yed on the swings, and Rek pushed me really high!" Samantha said and Evelyn smiled.

    "I guess you both had lots of fun?" Evelyn asked and Samantha nodded.

    "Yes, we did. He said I can see him again if you let us.

    Will you let us remain friends?" she asked and Evelyn nodded.

    "Of course, I will," she said, happy that Samantha had a friend already here.

    Perhaps she would try to meet with Rek''s parents and find out where he schooled so that she could have Samantha registered there as well. It would help her adjust to school easily if she had a friend there already, Evelyn reasoned.

 Chapter 19

    Evelyn arrived at Stone Corp early the next morning, her resolve firm but her nerves frayed because she was still very much anxious about working so closely with Derek.

    She had spent the night tossing, turning, and dreading the month ahead, knowing that everything could go wrong with just one wrong move.

    She was not only scared about him finding out about Samantha, but she was also scared about falling for him. She wasn''t too arrogant to believe it was impossible. He was after all, the man who had given her the best sex of her life, and all these years whenever she pleasured herself, she fantasized about his touch even though she couldn''t remember his face clearly.

    Today marked the beginning of her project with him, and she was determined to maintain her professionalism, despite theirplicated past.

    As she approached his office, she took a deep breath and knocked on the door since Derek had given his secretary strict orders to always let her in whenever she arrived as long as he didn''t havepany. After she knocked, Derek''s voice, smooth and confident, called out impatiently, "Come in."

    Stepping inside, she found Derek seated behind his desk, his head buried over some documents with a slight frown on his face.

    He raised his head to see who it was and when he saw her, his lips curved in a wide smile. "Good morning, Eve. I see you''re ready for your first day," he said, his tone holding a hint of amusement. Evelyn scowled at his use of her name. "Obviously, Mr.

    Stone, she replied, tersely and Derek chuckled.

    "Seeing this side of you amuses me. You know, I would never have imagined this side to you if we didn''t cross paths again this way. Back then you were so innocent yet bold and you made me believe you were..."

    "Can we get started already? I''m not here to talk about the past," Evelyn cut in and Derek grinned as looked at her, clearly enjoying himself.

    "Let''s get started, then," Derek said as he gestured for her to take a seat.

    "Please, have a seat. We will be spending a lot of time together, so let''s make this asfortable as possible," he said, deciding to start with an air of professionalism as she wanted even though he didn''t have the intention of keeping things professional.

    Evelyn sighed as she sat down, d that they were taking things seriously. "Thanks."

    She watched as he picked up a folder from his desk and handed it to her. "Here. I''ve outlined the terms of our arrangement as we discussed," he said and Evelyn took the folder and began to read through the document.

    The conditions were as he had stated: she would apany him everywhere, including during the weekends and on any trips he had nned. And she was only allowed to be objective in her review of him. She frowned slightly as she reached the end which stated that she was to be at his beck and call even though she had left the office for the day or was at her home.

    "I can''t be at your beck and call that way. The moment I get home, we can''t do any business until the next day," she said and he shook his head.

    "I already told you, Eve. It''s my way or nothing.

    Besides, how can youin about being at my beck and call when we have already established the fact that this arrangement is not restricted to only my working hours? What if somethinges up when you''re away?" he asked and she sighed.

    Although his argument didn''t make sense to her, she knew she didn''t have much of a choice. "Fine. But you should know there are a few things I would like to add to this, she said, looking up at him.

    Although Derek wanted to tell her outright that he wouldn''t allow any conditions she had, he decided to hear her out first.

    "Such as?" he asked with a raised brow.

    "I can''t travel out of the city without prior notice so you''d need to notify me beforehand. And, you''re not to visit me unannounced like you did yesterday," she stated firmly and Derek nodded thoughtfully. Those were reasonable demands.

    "I understand your concerns, Eve. I''m not unreasonable, so if those are your only conditions then we can put them down," he said reasonably.

    Seeing how he agreed, she decided to push her luck,

    "That''s not all. You''re not allowed to flirt with me..."

    "We both know I''m not going to agree to that," he said with a shake of his head.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    "But Mr. Stone..."

    "No buts, Eve," he interrupted, his tone gentle but firm. "I agreed to do this interview because I want to spend time with you. I want to get to know you. I''m not changing my mind. I have every intention of flirting with you and seducing you if I can," he said holding her gaze.

    Evelyn felt a rush of frustration and helplessness. She knew she had no leverage since he knew she needed to do this.

    Reluctantly, she nodded. "Alright. Let''s have it your way. But I must warn you that you''d only be wasting your time. I''m not interested in you. And nothing you do will change that," she said and Derek grinned, his eyes lingering on her for a moment.

    "If you say so," he said, handing her a pen.

    As she leaned over the desk to sign the agreement, Derek rose and went around around the desk to stand behind her.

    Evelyn tried to ignore his movement until she felt his presence close behind her, his breath warm against her neck.

    "Thank you, Eve. By signing this, you''ve just given me your consent to seduce you into being mine," he whispered, his voice sending a thrill through her.

    Evelyn set down the pen and pushed back from the desk. As she rose and turned to face him, she felt a shiver run down her spine when she met his gaze.

    There was something in his gaze that made her heart race, a mix of challenge and desire and she knew she shouldn''t be letting herself get bothered by it but it bothered her.

    She looked away from the mischievous grin on his face, her heart racing. "The only agreement I signed was to observe you on and off work hours and nothing else," she said, her voice firm.

    For a moment, the air between them was charged with tension and then Derek smiled, a slow, confident smile that made her pulse quicken.

    "I guess we will have to wait and see then," he replied, leaning down a bit as he picked up the pen that she had used, deliberately letting his fingers brush against her skin in the process.

    He chuckled when he noticed the way she inhaled sharply before she snatched her hand away but he said nothing as he returned to his seat, while she tried to ignore the tingling sensation she was feeling where his hand had touched.

    "So, I was thinking. Maybe to save us time and all, you could move in with me..."

    "Don''t be ridiculous," she snapped at him and he chuckled as he raised his hands in mock surrender.

    "I was kidding," he assured her.

    "You had better be. What am I supposed to do now?

    Hang around your office all day doing nothing? Stare at you as you work? What is the n?" She asked irritably.

    "For the next one month, you will be my assistant. A mediator between me and my secretary. I''ve told her to tell you everything on my schedule for the next month," he said and she sighed.

    "I''m a senior editor, not a secretary," she said with exaggerated patience.

    "Don''t worry. She will put you through all that needs to be done. I know you will catch up fast. You can start by preparing my coffee. Ask her to tell you how I like it," he said and she eyed him balefully before walking away, her mind whirling with different thoughts.

    This assignment was going to be more challenging than she had anticipated, and not just because of the demands on her time.

    Derek Stone was a man who could easily get under her skin, and she needed to stay focused and professional.

 Chapter 20

    After the close of work, Evelyn returned to the hotel that evening, her mind swirling with the thoughts of the day''s events. Despite her initial fear, the day hadn''t been so bad.

    Derek had been surprisingly professional and had barely paid her any attention, being too engrossed in his work.

    She was grateful for that small mercy and hoped it would continue that way since she''d been able to observe him quietly, taking notes for her article without feeling the intense scrutiny she had expected. She was also d that she had not run into Michael and she hoped that she wouldn''t have to run into him until the arrangement was over especially since he worked on a different floor.

    As she entered their suite, Samantha who had been ying quietly with her toys, went to wee her happily.

    "Wee, Mommy," she greeted excitedly, throwing herself into her mother''s embrace, however, Evelyn didn''t give her the whole smile she usually did since she knew she was about to break her daughter''s heart.

    "How are you, baby?" Evelyn asked and she grinned.

    "I''m fine," she said and went in to chatter about all she had done and all that had happened since Evelyn stepped out of the room in the morning.

    Evelyn nodded as she listened to her and she waited until she had run out of her stories before taking a deep breath, readying herself for the conversation she was about to bring up. "Sweetheart, remember what we talked about yesterday? We have to move to another ce now," she said gently, watching her daughter''s face for a reaction.

    Although she had told Samantha about the move, she knew Samantha well enough to know she would throw a bit of a tantrum when the time came to actually make the move.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

    Samantha''s face fell. "Why? Can''t we stay here a little longer? I really like it here, and I like the yground and Rek too," Samanthained with a pout, her little shoulders slumping.

    "I know you like it here, baby, but we have to move.

    We need to go somewhere closer to the ce where Mommy works. Don''t you want to be able to see where mommy works from your room?" she asked and Samantha nodded, her eyes gleaming with tears. "Okay, Mommy," she said and Evelyn smiled at her.

    Although she had wanted them to stay there until after she had secured an apartment, she couldn''t any longer, not after Derek''s unannounced visit and conditions.

    She couldn''t trust him not to show up unannounced iming he needed her for work and end up seeing Samantha. She didn''t want that. She thought as she waited for Maya to pack her stuff and join them. An hourter, they checked into another Hotel. It wasn''t as luxurious as The Stone''s Pce, but Evelyn felt a bit more at ease. At least here, she knew they wouldn''t be bothered.

    After they had settled in, Evelyn nced over at Samantha, who was sitting on the edge of the bed with her arms crossed, a pout on her face, clearly sulking.

    "Darling, I know you liked the other hotel, but we had to move," Evelyn said gently and Samantha looked up at her with tears in her eyes.

    "I didn''t get to tell Rek goodbye," she said and Evelyn nodded.

    "I''m sorry about that, pumpkin. Who knows? You might meet him again someday," she said with forced cheer and Samanatha looked down at her hands. "How about we go to an amusement park this weekend? Will that cheer you?" Evelyn asked, brushing a stray lock of hair from Samantha''s forehead.

    "Really? Can we really do that?" Samantha asked and Evelyn smiled.

    "Of course, we can''"" she said, hoping that Derek wouldn''t mess with her ns, "and if I''m too busy to make it, I will make sure Maya takes you," she added just to be on the safe side. "Okay, Mommy," Samantha said, brightening up a little.

    "So, does mummy get a hug?" Evelyn asked holding out her arms and Samantha embraced her.

    "Thank you, darling," Evelyn said, kissing Samantha''s forehead.

    Just as they settled down for the night, getting ready to go to bed, Evelyn''s phone rang. She nced at the screen, worried that it might be Derek, and heaved a relieved sigh when she saw that it was her stepmother.

    Evelyn received the call immediately "Hello, Mom."

    "Hello, Evie. How are you and Sam?" her stepmother''s voice came through warmly.

    "We''re okay. Just settling into a new hotel, Evelyn replied, ncing over at Samantha, who was lying on the bed, ying with her stuffed animal.

    ire raised a brow when she heard that. "You moved?

    Why? Shouldn''t you be thinking ofing home?" ire asked with a worried frown and Evelyn smiled.

    "While I''m still considering it, I thought it best I move Sam to somewhere else since Michael knows where I am. I don''t want him or anyone else springing a surprise visit on me and finding out about Sam until I''m ready to tell Dad myself,'' Evelyn exined since that was the truth.

    "Yeah. That makes sense. I''m d I called. I was thinking of bringing some homemade food to you and Sam. Do you mind telling me where you are so I bring it over tomorrow?" ire asked and Evelyn hesitated since she didn''t want Sandra to find out about her new lodge.

    "You don''t have to bother yourself..."

    "It''s been so long since you ate something prepared by me, Evie. If you don''t want it, at least allow my granddaughter to have a taste of my cooking," ire said and Evelyn sighed.

    "Fine. You cane. But can you please promise not to tell Dad or Sandra about where I''m staying?" Evelyn asked and although ire wanted to ask why she wouldn''t let even Sandra know, she didn''t bother.

    "If that''s what you want, I won''t. I will be waiting for the address," ire said and Evelyn smiled, d that she didn''t ask any questions.

    "Thanks, mom. And I''m sorry I''m putting you in a difficult position with my requests," Evelyn said before ire hung up the call.

    ire, who had just dropped the call, turned abruptly when she heard Sandra''s voice behind her.

    "Who was that on the phone, Mom?" Sandra asked curiously since she had just walked in to hear her mom say she was waiting for an address.

    "A friend. Are you going somewhere?" ire asked when she noticed that Sandra was dressed as though she was stepping out.

    "I was hoping we could go see Evelyn today," Sandra said since she wasn''t aware that her mother had visited

    Evelyn already.

    "I''m sorry I can''te with you. I need to go see a friend. You can go alone. I will visit her some other time," ire said, and Sandra nodded. "Alright. See youter," Sandra said before leaving for the Stone''s Pce Hotel.

    Thirty minutester, Sandra stood in front of the hotel with a frown etched on her face after she had been told that Evelyn had checked out of the Hotel.

    As Sandra walked back to her car, she wondered why Evelyn had moved so quickly and where she could have gone. She also wondered if she knew Michael had followed her that day. Something didn''t add up, and she was determined to find out what it was.

 Chapter 21

    A weekter. Evelyn felt like half of her burdens had lifted after she finally moved out of the hotel and into her apartment.

    The past week at work with Derek had been surprisingly drama-free and pleasantly uneventful, so much so that she was still finding it hard to believe considering how he had made her believe he was going to be flirting and seducing her throughout the duration of their arrangement.

    Judging by the way everything was going smoothly and how she had yet to run into Michael for the past week, she was beginning to think that Lady Luck was on her side, and she could only hope that it would remain that way for the remaining three weeks of the arrangement.

    Arriving at the office. Evelyn''s brows pulled together when she entered the office and saw that Derek was nowhere in sight but his coat hung on the coat hanger letting her know he hade to work. Deciding to confirm with his secretary, she went out to ask and when the secretary told her he stepped out a while ago without mentioning where he was headed, Evelyn decided to go get his coffee before he returned.

    She was surprised when she approached the coffee kitchen and saw Dereking out from there, carrying two coffee cups in hand

    "Good morning, Eve. How are you?" he asked and Evelyn resisted the urge to roll her eyes.

    Even though he had been on his best behavior, he had kept referring to her as Eve and now, she was no longer bothered by it.

    "Good morning. meant for

    Mr. Stone I was just ca

    was justing to get your coffee. Are you expecting a guest?" she asked curiously, wondering who the other c

    cup was

    "I have been expecting you. I figured I get us both coffee today seeing how you were runningte," he said, handing her a cup.

    "Is this your way of scolding me for beingte?" She asked, amused as she reached to take the cup from him.

    As Derek handed her the cup, he smiled at her, "No. I am not scolding you. There are better ways to do that. Besides, you''ve not been a bad girl," he said with a wink, making her heart skip a beat. Thank you," she muttered as she looked away from him, her heart racing.

    "You''re wee always, Eve. Let''s head back to the office." he said and she nodded as she followed him back to his office, neither of them saying a

    word to each other

    "You don''t seem to have a lot to do today. I suppose I can leave early. Evelyn observed thirty minutester as she looked at the appointment journal the secretary had handed her for the new week. You can leave after my lunch meeting" Derek said and Evelyn frowned.

    "A lunch meeting? Your secretary didn''t mention anything about a

    That''s because she doesn''t know about it either. It was an impromptu arrangement," he cut in and she nodded.

    "I see. So, where is the meeting taking ce? Evelyn asked as they took their seat.

    "You don''t have to worry, I will drive us there," he said and she nodded.

    As they left for the meeting after noon, Evelyn couldn''t help but be curious about who they were meeting and what the meeting was about.

    "Mr. Stone, if you don''t mind me asking, who are you meeting? Where is the meeting taking ce! And what is the meeting and out?" she asked, ncing at him as he drove.

    "Are you ever going to stop calling me that?" He asked with a curious, ignoring her question.

    "Am I supposed to?" She retorted.

    "Yes, you should. We are old friends after all. Besides, I''m your employer," he said, and she snorted.

    "Could have fooled me," she muttered.

    "What do you mean?" He asked and she sighed

    *Nothing at all. I''m going to keep referring to you as Mr Stone because that is your name. We are not friends, and I have no intention of being friends with you. Not now, and certainly not in the future either. Let''s keep things formal" she said firmly.

    "You''re a tough nut to crack, you know!" Derek said, and she shook her head.

    "That''s where you got it wrong. I''m not a nut for you to crack in the first ce. So quit trying" she said and Derek nodded.

    0

    "Alright. So, it''s been a week already. I''m curious about your findings so far. What have you learned about me?" he asked changing the subject.

    Relieved by the change of subject, she paused, considering his question. "Well, I''ve noticed a few things, she began cautiously.

    "You have a very hands-on approach to leadership. It''s clear that you''re deeply involved in every aspect of thepany, which ismendable and it makes me wonder how you''ve managed to keep away from the public eye for so long," she said and Derek chuckled.

    "It would have remained so if you hadn''t shown up," he said confidently. "It''s good to know you''re paying close attention and you''re being objective too," he said not bothering to say anything to satisfy her curiosity.

    "It''s what I''m good at." Evelyn said, making up her mind to find out why he had stayed away from the media for so long before the end of the arrangement.

    "I''m curious to see more things you''re good at, he drawled and Evelyn sighed dramatically, making him chuckle.

    "You didn''t answer my question about the venue of the meeting, who you are meeting, and why? Shouldn''t I know what to expect?" Evelyn reminded him, steering the conversation to safer grounds. "Why the hurry? We are almost there, and you will find out soon enough. But I can assure you that you will like the restaurant," he said, and Evelyn rolled her eyes.

    sen the p Why did he sound like he had chosen ce with her in mind? It wasn''t like they were going on a date.

    date, she mused, but said nothing.

    Once they arrived at the charming deluxe restaurant, the hostess greeted them and led them to their reserved table.

    Evelyn raised a brow when she noticed it was a table for two, but before she could ask any questions, Derek held out her seat and she sat down. She waited until Derek was seated before looking at him with

    a raised eyebrow. "Where is the client? Are we too early? And why are there only two seats?" she asked suspiciously as a waiter brought a bottle of champagne and sses.

    Derek checked his watch and shrugged. "He''s probably runningte. When he arrives we will leave you here and go to a different table to speak privately while you observe. Let''s order lunch while we wait. I''m famished," he said casually, and Evelyn hesitated, looking at him suspiciously.

    uwait. Someone could see us and misunderstand..."

    "I don''t think it''s a good idea to have lunch with you while you

    know

    my identity, their opinion doesn''t really

    "The people who know my identity won''t care about seeing me with you, and those who don''t) matter, does it?" He asked, his eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and determination.

    "What''s the champagne for?" Evelyn asked as he poured the wine into their sses.

    "To celebrate your return into my life. The celebration is long overdue, don''t you think?" He asked, and she frowned.

    "Did you deliberately bring me here for this? Or is there really a meeting with a client?" She asked, giving him a pointed look that demanded nothing but the truth.

    Derek held her gaze. "It''s our first date," he confessed and watched with amusement as a spark of anger ignited her green eyes as she started to push from the table

    "I''m not doing this with you," she said as she rose and picked up her handbag

    "I told you, Eve. I wasn''t going to keep things professional. If you want me to flirt with you openly at the office, I will do so. suggest you sit down and have lunch with me," he said calmly.

    "Are you threatening me?" She asked, ring at him.

    . But if you don''t. I

    Derek shrugged. "You can call it whatever you want, Eve. Six years ago I let you have your way with me. Now I''m going to have my way with you whether or not you like it. You can call me a jerk or whatever, but I intend to have you, Eve. So, you can either let me treat you as a gentleman or I will go about it the other way," he said, lifting his ss to her in a silent toast.

    Evelyn hesitated for a moment, torn between calling his bluff and walking away, and taking his threat seriously. She didn''t want him to flirt with her openly especially not at thepany.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

    "ise a good girl and sit your pretty ass down Eve. I gave you a week to settle down. Now I''m just getting started," he said with a roguish smile as he picked up the menu in decide on what to order, while Evelyn inhaled deeply and let it out slowly to calm herself as she sat back down.

 Chapter 22

    Evelyn sat down, trying to suppress the anger boiling within her. She didn''t know what infuriated her more: Derek''s arrogance or the fact that he was right- she couldn''t afford a scene at thepany. "Fine. Let''s get this over with," she muttered, picking up her menu and pretending to be engrossed in it.

    "That''s the spirit." Derek said, his smile widening as he signaled the walter o OVCE.

    They ordered their meals, and the atmosphere at the table was thick with tension. Evelyn focused on her breathing, trying to keep calm and collected despite Derek''s presence. She knew she had to y along at least for now,

    tell me, Eve, have you gotten a ce yet?" He asked, attempting to strike up a conversation as their drinks were served.

    "Not your business," she muttered.

    "I don''t suppose you are still at the Orchid Hotel, are you?" He asked, and her eyes widened slightly in surprise making him smile.

    "What! You thought I wouldn''t know where you moved to after leaving my hotel! I don''t intend to have you disappear on me ever again, Eve. I n to keep my eyes on you this time," he said and she nodded. "I will keep that in mind" she said quietly.

    -So, how do you like your

    your new apartment?" Derek asked, and she raised a brow.

    "Are you stalking me?" She asked and he grinned.

    "I guess you''ve moved into an apartment now, What''s it like? Do you like the ce?" he said, pleased with himself for getting her to answer his question indirectly.

    Evelyn took a deep breath, "What will it take for you to stop all of this!"

    Derek shrugged, "Give in to me."

    "Give in to you? Do you think because you have a hot body and a sexy smile you can do whatever you want?" She asked and it was only when the words left her lips that she realized what she had said. Derek grinned, "Yes, I think so. And I''m pleased to know you find my smile sexy and my body hot," he said with a wink

    "I didn''t mean I find

    I find you appealing in any way

    "Oh! You find me appealing too. Aren''t you full ofpliments today?" he asked with a chuckle and she closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

    "It''s fine. My apartment. I like the ce," she said, deciding that it was best to answer his simple questions since avoiding them seemed to be making the conversation moreplex for her. Derek grinned, "Just fine? Come on, you can do better than that. I bet it''s cozy and suits you perfectly, he teased, leaning back in his chair. Evelyn forced a smile. "Yes. It''s everything I need." Derek studied her for a moment before nodding. "Good. I''m d you found a ce you like.

    Their food arrived, and Evelyn was grateful for the distraction. She focused on her meal, determined not to give Derek any more ammunition. But he wasn''t done.

    "You know, Eve, I never really understood why you left without a word six years ago. Not even a thank you," he said casually, taking a bite of his food

    rtone neutral.

    Evelyn stiffened. She had been dreading this conversation, but she knew it was inevitable. "I had my reasons," she said, keeping her to Knowing Derek, it was better she answered his question else they were just going to keep going around in circles and he wouldn''t give up. Derek''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Reasons you could not share with me! You didn''t even tell me why you were in that state or anything. Why?" "It wasn''t the right time," she replied, hoping to shut down the topic.

    "And when would be the right time? Now?" he pressed, leaning forward.

    Evelyn put down her fork and met his gaze squarely. "No. Not now. Not ever," she said as she raised her ss to her lips,

    Derek''s expression hardened for a moment, but then he sighed and leaned back again, studying her.

    Tve been curious about something for a while now. Where have you been these past six years, Eve!"

    Evelyn almost choked on her drink when she heard the question. It had caught her off guard as she didn''t expect him to ask her that.

    She looked up to find Derek''s gaze intense and unwavering and she decided to not let him know she had left the country the next day after sleeping

    with him

    "was around until four years ago," she replied vaguely

    "You were in this city for two years" Derek pressed, leaning forward in his chair.

    "Howe I never saw you or ran into you? I''ve been looking for you since that night, Eve. It was as if you disappeared into thin air," he said and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat.

    "Why were you looking for me? Please don''t tell me anything ridiculous about falling for me at first sight," she said with forced bravado.

    Derek grinned, "I''ve been with lots of women, but you''re the first that made me feel so alive in longer than I remember"

    Lust shot up her spine like lightning and before she could prevent it the memory of their wild sex together rushed back to her and made her feel weak. That had undoubtedly been the best sex of her life and merely thinking about it made her horny.

    But she quickly reminded herself what had led her to that decision. It was a man like him. His cousin for that matter whose deception had broken her so badly that she had almost gotten into an ident. She had no room for lover such desires in her life.

    "That''s bullshit."

    ¡°Simple honesty,¡± he said, intrigued by the emotions that had flickered through her expressive green eyes

    She thought

    She had hoped to avoid this conversation, but it seemed inevitable. Perlups it was time she put an end to all this talk about their pair. 5 and then cleared her throat.

    "This arrangement is not for us to revisit the past, Mr. Stone. So, I''d rather we focus on that," she said firmly, trying to steer the conversation back to their professional arrangement.

    "Are yo

    you just going to pretend it never happened?" he asked, his voice low as he fixed his eyes on her

    "I thought we were over this already" she asked, exasperated

    He shook his head. "Not by a long shot. I told you I n on making you mine before this arrangement is over, he said, holding her gazeContent ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn also held his gaze, her eyes steady. "For the sake of this project, and both our sakes, I hope you abort any of those ns you have skimming in your head. I already told you nothing you do would work on me so it''s best you return to being professional."

    "Why?" Derek asked curiously.

    "Why what?" Evelyn asked with a frown.

    "Why are you resisting? Why don''t you want to give me a chance! Derek asked curiously

    "I''m simply not interested. So, you should quit wasting your time on me and channel it somewhere else," Evelyn said tly.

    "Do you always have sex with random men you''re not interested in?" He asked, holding her gaze.

    "I didn''t have sex with you because it was you. It was nothing personal, Mr Stone. I would have had sex with just about anyone as long as he had something dangling between his legs. I didn''t pick you out specially. You just happened to be avable," she said with a shrug

    A mix of hurt and anger shed in Derek''s eyes, and to keep himself from saying anything hurtful he looked away from her as he picked up his ss and took a sip of his wine.

    Watching him. Evelyn could tell that her words had hurt his ego, but she tried not to feel bad about it.

    "I don''t know about that, however, I do know I will make sure thave you in my bed agom," he said and Evelyn telt a shiver run down her span

    "Do you know who I am!" She asked, doubtful that he knew she was his cousin''s ex-fancer.

    "I don''t care who you are, Eve: I want you to know that I''m not letting this go. We have unfinished business, and I intend to see it through There is no basmess between us. Mr Stone. There never was,"

    never was," Evelyn sad firmly.

    This timer Dork chuckled softly "Keep telling visitself that. Eve But we both know that a not true. You started the business between us, and I intend

    112

    She looked away, unwilling to engage further. The rest of the meal passed in ufortable silence, and Evelyn couldn''t wait for it to be over.

    As they finished their lunch, Derek signaled for the check and then turned to her. "I have a proposal for you."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, wary. "What kind of proposal!"

    He leaned in, his eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made her heart race. "Give me a chance, Eve. Let me prove how much I want you"

    She stared at him in disbelief. "You can''t be serious," she said, wondering if he had memory loss problems or if he was just trying to get on her

    ¦°¦¥¦±¦£¦¥¦©.

    1. I''ve never

    Tam.

    never been more serious about anything in my life," he said, his tone earnest.

    Evelyn shook her head. "You''re delusional if you think I''m going to fall for this."

    hy not? What are you so afraid of?" he challenged.

    "Why

    Im not afraid. I''m just not interested" she snapped, feeling frustrated.

    He smirked. "We''ll see about that."

    The waiter returned with the check, and Derek paid without another word. As they left the restaurant, he looked at her.

    "You''re heading home now, right? Where should I drop you off?" He asked as he signaled to the valet to get his car.

    "Thanks. I will take a cab," she said, not wanting him to take her home.

    "Suit yourself," he said and she gave him a nod.

    "I will," she said as she took out her phone to book a cab ride.

    "I enjoyed our date. Let''s do it again soon," he called to her as he got into the car a momentter.

    Evelyn''s mind was racing as she watched him drive off. She needed to figure out a way to deal with Derek and his relentless jeopardizing her job or her sanity.

 Chapter 23

    The next day, Derek was as professional as ever, but Evelyn couldn''t shake the feeling that he was watching her every move, waiting for her to slip up. She had to stay vignt and not let her guard down. At the close of work, she felt a sense of relief wash over her as she made her way out of Derek''s office and headed for the elevator.

    She was relieved that Derek had behaved himself and not caused any unnecessary drama. All she had to do now was do her best to keep things this way for the next twenty-two days and soon it will all be over. Her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar but unpleasant voice calling out her

    name.

    "Evelyn! Evelyn!"

    Evelyn took a deep breath as she turned to face Michael, praying for the patience to deal with him.

    "It''s really you.

    What are you back here for?" He asked as he strode towards her, his expression a mix of surprise and annoyance.

    When Sandra had informed him that Evelyn had checked out of the hotel, they had both assumed that she had returned to wherever she came from and they didn''t have to deal with her anymore, but seeing her here now, on his way to Derek''s office to remind him once again of the anniversary which wasing up the next weekend, Michael couldn''t help but feel annoyed.

    "What''s your business with my reason for being here, Michael? Why do you concern yourself with my business?" Evelyn asked, looking trying to keep the irritation out of her voice

    "You know where this is, don''t you? This is Stone Corp. I not only work here, but this ce belongs to my family too, so your presence here is my business. What are you doing here?" Michael demanded, his tone sharp and condescending.

    Taking a deep breath, Evelyn decided to wam him off onest time. "You don''t own the ce, Michael. Stay out of my

    "Didn''t Derek make it clear he wouldn''t grant your magazine any interview? Why are you stilling around? Or do you n to seduce him into falling for you like you did to me only to break my heart and cause me so much embarrassment?" he asked, his tone bitter,

    Unable to help herself, Evelyn scoffed, "I don''t have the time for this nonsense," she said, deciding to ignore him since she was already losing her temper hearing him speak that way to her.

    As she turned to walk away, Michael grabbed her hand, "Hey, I''m still talking to you," he said as he pulled her back. There was no way he was letting her ignore him like she had done the other day. Evelyn jerked her hand free, and she smiled sardonically as she met his gaze. "Don''t tell me you''re not over me yet, Michael. That would be too pathetic, don''t you think? Seeing as I haven''t even spared you a thought in all this time, She asked, deciding to bruise his ego.

    Michael blinked, wondering why she sounded like someone different and why she was speaking to him in that manner. "I don''t have any feelings for you either.."

    "Good. That means you shouldn''t bother yourself with me. We have nothing inmon. We are basically strangers, so stay out of my way"

    "I won''t I won''t let a bitch like you anywhere near my cousin, Michael spat out.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "What if he is the one who wants to be near me?" She asked with a sardonic smile.

    "What do you mean by that?" he asked feeling confused,

    "What can you really do if I decide to seduce him? Are you going to stop me?" she asked with a smirk and Michael''s frown deepened. "What a

    are you up to? Are you really trying to seduce Derek?" He asked in utter confusion.

    "Here''s a litle advice for you, Michael, Evelyn said as she stepped closer to him and adjusted his tie, "Why don''t you go ahead and tell your cousin who I am! Please, do me a favor and tell him. I''d like to see how he reacts to that," she said with a challenging glint in her

    cyes.

    "What is wrong with you, Evie! You''ve changed so much," Michael said, feeling bothered by her behavior.

    Hearing him call her that, the smile slid off Evelyn''s face as she dropped her hands. This is thest time I will be cordial with you, Michael Hills, I''m going to warn you for thest time, stay away from me, and make sure that whenever you see me, you act like you don''t know me, else I''m going to make things very unpleasant for you. Evelyn warned, her tone serious and without another word, she turned around and walked away.

    20. 1

    She had no desire or n of letting either him or Sandra know that she knew what they had been up to. That would make her the pathetic one. had run away because of them, and she didn''t want that She would rather they continued to delude themselves into thinking she was the viin than let them

    think of her as their victim

    She knew she wouldn''t keeps hidden forever. But for now, she nned to keep it to herself. When the name was right, she would expose them both if they refused to stay out of her way

    AM

    She was curious to see if he would tell Derek about her, and she was even more curious t

    to see how Derek would take the news.

    What would he do if he found out he had slept with his cousin''s wife-to-be a day before their supposed wedding? What would his opinion of her

    be!

    Would he still want her? Would he still want to do the interview for their sake or would he back out?

    The didn''t care about him not wanting her or him having a bad opinion about her. All that mattered to her was for him to keep to his word and do The interview, After that, she would dly disappear from his life since she wanted nothing to do with anyone, who was rted to Michael.

 Chapter 24

    Michael''s jaw was clenched in anger as he watched Evelyn''s retreating figure and his eyes were dull with confusion at the same time.

    He couldn''t help but wonder what had happened to Evelyn six years ago and why she changed so drastically from the sweet girl she used to be

    What was she up to? Hemused as he turned on his heel and headed for Derek''s office, his anger barely contained as his mind raced with questions. Why was Evelyn still involved with thepany and with Derek? What was Dereck thinking? Why did she sound like she had personal business with Derck!

    Derek looked up from his desk when Michael barged into his office without knocking

    "Did something happen! Why do you look that way? Derek asked, his expression calm and unbothered.

    "I should be asking you if something happened. Why did I just see thatdy here again? I thought you said you wouldn''t do the interview. So, why did shee back here?" Michael asked heatedly. Derek''s expression remained neutral, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes as he couldn''t help being amused by Michael''s irritation when he was the one being asked to be interviewed.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "Is that why your hackles are up? I''m considering granting her the interview, he said and Michael''s eyes widened in disbelief,

    "You''re doing what? Why are you suddenly considering having your face out there after all this time? Why Empowered Magazine? Why not the People''s Times? You know how close I am to the Quinns yet you turned them down when they asked, so why now? Why her?" Michael asked Infuriated

    Derek raised a brow. "Since when d

    when do I answer to you?" Derek asked, his tone cool and authoritative,

    Michael hesitated, realizing he might have overstepped. "Look, Rek, all I''m saying is, if anyone deserves a chance to interview you, it should be the People''s Times. They have a wider reach, a better reputation, and also they''re good people, Michael said and Derek''s eyes shed with irritation

    "I think you are forgeuing that this is about me and not you. It''s my choice who I choose to work with, Michael, not yours. questioning my decisions or choices. I have chosen to do this with Empowered Magazine, and that''s the end of it. Derek said in a tone of finality.

    I don''t need you

    Michael''s face tightened with frustration, but he knew better than to push further. Derek was stubborn and whenever he made up his mind on something, his decisions were final, and challenging him would only lead to more conflict.

    He sighed and nodded. "Fine," Michael said, his voice strained. T''m sorry 1 overstepped. I was only looking out for you because I trust the People''s Dailies more," Michael said and Derek nodded

    understand. But I''m curious about something. Do you know thedy from Empowered personally?" He asked, recalling Michael''s interest in her thest time and wondering why Michael seemed so agitated at the prospect of him letting Evelyn interview him

    Michael opened his mouth to tell Derek who she was, with hopes that he might change his mind, but he hesitated when he remembered Evelyn asking him to tell Derek who she was

    He had no idea what she had nned, but he wasn''t going to y into her n. He needed to talk with Sandra first.

    Thankfully before he coulde up with something, Derek''s phone rang "I will be on my way out, Michael said and walked out without bothering to answer the question.

    Michael stood outside Derek''s office, looking at the door, his mind a whirlwind of anger and confusion before continuing out.

    As he got into the elevator, he couldn''t help but wonder what Evelyn must have said or done to get Derek to agree to do the interview. With a sigh. he pulled out his phone and dialed Sandra''s number. "Hey boo, what''s up" Sandra asked immediately when she received the call

    "Are you out of the office! Can we meet now?" Michael asked as he strode out of the elevator and beaded for his car.

    "What''s wrong? Did something happen?" she asked with a frown, sensing that he wasn''t asking to see her because he kissed her but for something else Something serious

    "I ran into Evelyn again, Michael said and Sandra raised a brow.

    "At Stone Corp! Or where!" She asked curiously.

    "This isn''t something we should discuss over the phone. Meet me at my ce. I''m headed home now," Michael said and Sandra nodded

    "Fine. I''ll be there in thing minutes, Sandra said before hanging up

    Michael sighed as he got into his car, and as he drove home, his mind churned with anger at being dismissed not only by the bitch Evelyn but also by his fool of a cousin, Derek

    He was going to have to teach the two a lesson, he thought as he drove off

    we had

    Only after he had driven for some time did he remember that he had forgotten to talk to Derek about the anniversary party- the reason he been on his way to the office in the first ce before running into Evelyn.

    As though reading his thoughts, his phone rang at the moment and he scowled when he saw it was Derek before he received the call.

    "Yeah?"

    "I understand that you''re close to the Quinns, and you''re disappointed I''m letting another magazine do the exclusive, so how about I grant your favor instead! Would that appease you?" Derek asked, since he didn''t want Michael to feel too bad.

    "What favor!" Michael asked grudgingly.

    "The anniversary party. I will honor their invitation and make an appearance there for your sake. That should be good enough for you, right?" He asked, and although Michael still wasn''t pleased about his decision to grant Evelyn the interview, he agreed that this was better than nothing

    "Yes, it is. Thanks, Rek, Michael said, deciding to settle for this until he figured out what was going on between Derek and Evelyn, and found a way

    make Derek change his mind about granting her the interview.

 Chapter 25

    Sandra''s mind was filled with questions as she drove down to Michael''s ce. Ever since their phone call, the major thing she had kept asking herself why Evelyn had not reached out to her since she arrived in Ludus, and why Evelyn had to leave the Hotel.

    Where was the staying? Why was she back after six years? What did she want! Why was the interview with Derek Stone important to her?

    The moment she arrived at Michael''s house, she punched in the passcode and walked in since she knew he was expecting her and there was no neeil for unnecessary formalities between them.

    The moment she walked into the living room she saw Michael, lounging on the sofa with a ss of whiskey in his hand. Although he was still wearing his work clothes but had taken off his jacket and loosened his tie

    "What is going on, Mike? Why did you sound that way over the phone? Did Evelyn say anything to you? What happened?" Sandra demanded as she joined him on the couch. "Before 1 say anything. I have news. One good

    good news and one bad news. Which do you want to hear first?" He asked as he raised his ss to his lips. "Hm. The bad one I guess," Sandra said after a moment''s pause.

    "Derek has agreed to do the exclusive interview with Evelyn, Michael said tly, and Sandra stared at him in disbelief. "He did what? Why would he do that? Didn''t you say he said he was not going to do it?" Sandra asked, rising from her seat. "That was what he said. I have no idea what that bitch did or said to him. I''m so fucking mad at everything right now," Michaels

    I said Thitterly

    Taking a deep breath, Sandra returned to her seat, "Calm down and tell me exactly what happened. How did you find out about Derek''s decision! Did he tell you? Or did you hear it from Evelyn?" "Derek, that fool told me so himself. He said he''s considering granting her the interview...

    "There is hope then. The key word there is considering. We can change his mind." Sandra cut in, relieved.

    "I know Derek. The only reason he would have said that is because he has made up his mind, Michael said and Sandra frowned

    "Why would he do that? Why Evelynt Didn''t you tell him who she is?" Sandra asked in confusion

    "No L

    I haven''t. Not yet

    "Why not? You should have told him who she was the moment he told you he was considering doing the interview with her. I don''t think he''d be so willing to have anything to do with her if he knows she is the bitch that broke your heart. And who knows? If he cancels his arrangement with her, he just might consider letting me do it now that it seems like he is ready to reveal himself, Sandra said thoughtfully. have a point. I was going to tell him but then I changed my mind when I remembered what Evelyn said Michael said and Sandra raised a

    "What did she say?" Sandra asked, and Michael told her all about his encounter with Evelyn.

    That bitch! I''m sure she was only bluffing. What makes her think she can seduce Derek or have him?" Sandra asked, seething

    *She seemed so different, Sandy. I can''t ce it, but she was like a different person, Michael said, and Sandra snorted.

    "How different can she bet She''s still Evelyn. All I need to do is find a way to meet up with her and I''m sure I will easily find out what she is up to Sandra said confidently.

    Michael shook his head, "You should know that she isn''t the same Evelyn, else why hasn''t she reached out to you yet since she got back? You were her best friend Michael pointed out

    Sandra sighed. "I''ve been curious about that too, but seeing how she hasn''t reached out to either of our parents I guess it''s nothing personal"

    "No matter how hard I try, I still can''t seem to wrap my head around how she could change so much overnight. Six years ago everything was perfect. I never gave her any reasons to doubt me. You even talked about how ecstatic she was when she tried on the wedding dress. We talked over the phone and everything was fine. How could she change so drastical. The rest of his words were cut short when Sandra pped him hard across the face causing some of the whiskey in his ss to spill,

    "What did

    d you do

    o that for? Michael asked, his eyes burning from the sting of the p

    anger

    7h that gibberish you''re ranting about important right now? Who cares why she chose to call off your bloody wedding? We are talking about now. The present. Not some fucking past. Sandra hisseil

    "If you were smart you''d knw that we need to understand what happened and why she changed in order to know why she is back and what she is up to What if she broke up within six years ago because she suddenly thought that she''d rather marry Derek the bear to Stone Corp? What it

    Gluper 21

    that''s the reason she is approaching him now?" Michael snapped at her.

    Sandra parsed her lips as her brows furrowed thoughtfully. "You think so? You think she is interested in Derek?" She asked and then shook her head

    I like Evelyn. She''s naive and gullible. She isn''t the type to plot..."

    "That doesn''t sound I

    "Neither

    r was the the type to call off a wedding she had been dreaming about for long and walk out on her family!" Michael cut in harshly.

    of fury

    Sandra took a deep breath. "You might have a point," Sandra said, feeling a surge

    "Whatever her n is, this isn''t good. Not good at all. We can''t have her do the interview or get too close to Derek. You need to find out why Derek agreed to this. Ask him-"

    TH

    "You think I didn''t? I asked but the arrogant fool wouldn''t answer my questions Michael cut in

    "Evelyn should have remained wherever she was. Why did shee back! Six years ago, she ruined our n just when we were about to achieve it, and six yearster, she''s about to do the same. I hate that bitch!" Sandra hissed, frustration bubbling up inside her.

    Michael''s expression darkened. This time. I''m not going to let her get in my way. I will kill his my bare hands iExclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    determination hardening into something more dangerous

    "By the way, what was the good news?" Sandra asked when she suddenly remembered.

    I have to." Michael said, his

    "I guess Derek fell guilty. He called on my way home to say he would attend the anniversary to make up for doing the interview with Evelyn." Michael exined

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed and then she snapped her finger, "That is it I think I''ve gotten it." Sandra said, and Michael raised a brow.

    "Gotten what?"

    Sandra sat beside him, "When next you see her, follow her. We need to find out where she lives now. That way I can said before he could interrupt her. befriend her... just

    Fust listen," she

    ¡°I''m going to find a way to get Evelyn to attend the anniversary party, and while we are there at the party, we will make Derek find out who she is naturally. That way you can act like the scarred ex who didn''t want to reveal the ex who hurt you to your beloved cousin. I''m sure he would cut her off and would want nothing to do with her after that," she said and Michael nodded slowly, his anger giving way to a cold, calcted resolve.

    "But what if they do the interview before then? Don''t you think the purpose has been defeated then?" Michael asked, and Sandra smirked.

    "Not at all. The interview was never our end goal remember? The goal is for me to get married to Derek, we get rid of him and his parents and together we take over Stone Corp. Exposing Evelyn that way is to make sure Derek wants nothing romantic to do with her if she ns to seduce him. Also, we can stop the interview if we want. All we need to do ise up with ways to discredit her. Let''s drive a wedge between her and Derck now," Sandra said and Michael nodded thoughtfully.

    "We have to look for a way to make her seem untrustworthy and unprofessional in Derek''s eyes. If we can nt doubts about her work ethic in Derek''s mind, he might reconsider the interview, Michael said, his eyes gleaming with a renewed sense of purpose.

    "You''re such an evil genius, Sandy," Michael said with a grin as he cupped Sandra''s face in his hands and kissed her lips.

    Sandra giggled, "When there is a will, there is always a way. We can take care of Evelyn," she said confidently.

    "I think I already know what to do, Michael said with a smile.

    Sandra raised a brow. "Tell me what you have in mind."

    "I will be needing your help," he said and Sandra smirked.

    "You know I will do whatever I can as long as it takes her out of the way," she said and Michael nodded.

    he said as he went on to tell her his n

    By the time he was done, Sandra was giggling happily, "And you said I was the evil genius. I know this is going to work. Evelyn won''t know what hit her when we''re done with her, Sandra said and Michael smiled smugly.

    "C''mon, why don''t you sell me how much of a genius. I am on the bed?" he said suggestively and Sandra grinned.

    [course, too," she said as she led the way to the bedroom.

 Chapter 26

    Evelyn arrives at the office the next day with a sense of determination mixed with caution.

    Even though she had acted all brave during her exchange with Michael the previous day, she sort of worried that Derek might back out of the interview if Michiel told him who she was.

    She had no ns of letting him back out of their arrangement. Not after she had spent over a week doing his bidding and following him about the ce like a puppet.

    As the rode the elevator, she clung to the hope that Derek hadn''t reached out to her since the previous day, so that had to mean that nothing had changed.

    Working in Stone Corp was tasking in a lot of ways and she couldn''t wait for the one month toe to an end so she wouldn''t have to worry about seeing Michael or being seduced by Derek anymore. Once she got to Derek''s office lobby, his secretary gestured to her to go in as usual and she took a deep breath as she stepped into his office.

    "Good moming. Mr. Stone" she greeted when she saw him focused on his desktop

    And she held her breath as she waited for him to look up. She was curious to know if Michael had said anything to him or not.

    Derek nced up

    and shed her a quick smile. "Good morning, Eve, I need a moment to respond to an email," he exined as he returned his attention to his desktop.

    e didn''t have any with him.

    Seeing how busy he was, she decided to go get him coffee a usual since he di

    "I will go get your coffee then, she said and without waiting for a response, she headed out to the coffee room, needing the mundane task to steady her nerves.

    It seemed like Michael had not said anything to him. Why didn''t Michael say anything? Or did he? Was Derek merely ignoring what Michael had said and choosing to honor their agreement? She mused as she walked into the coffee room.

    The machine hummed softly, filling the room with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. She poured a cup, added the exact amount of sugar and cream Derek preferred, and carefully carried it back to his office.

    "Your coffee," she said and Derek looked up from the desktop, a faint s

    smile ying on his lips.

    "Thank you, Eve," he said as he reached out for Evelyn to hand it to him.

    A

    he took it from her, he let his fingers brush against hers, lingering just a moment too long as he held her gaze.

    The contact although expected made her flinch, and in her haste to pull away, the coffee cup slipped from her grasp..

    The cup fell on the desk and some of its contents sshed onto Derek''sp and soaked some of the documents on his desk before the ground. cup hit the

    Seeing this, Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat as a wave of anxiety washed over her. "Oh my, God! I''m so sorry!" bag for her handkerchief.

    she eximed, quickly digging into her

    She couldn''t believe that in her worry about Michael''s conversation with Derek, she had forgotten to keep her guard up around Derek. How could she have momentarily forgotten that even though he had been on his best behavior the previous day, he was still very unpredictable and could switch when the least expected, just like he had done with the whole lunch thing? She mused as she quickly grabbed the tissue box and ced some of them on the desk to soak the coffee.

    And then she went around the desk and dropped to her knees, dabbing at the coffee stain on his clothes, her face flushed with embarrassment. "Im so sorry," she repeated.

    When Derek didn''t say a word after some time, she raised her head to look into his face, curious to know why he wasn''t even stopping her from fusing over the stain or making any attempt to check the damage done to the documents on his desk

    Evelyn''s brow pulled together when she was met with an infuriating grin. "Why did you stop?" he asked, his voice low and teasing causing Evelyn''s frown to deepen as she wondered why he would be smiling that way in a sination like that

    She nced back at her hands which were resting on his thigh and immediately, she snatched her hands when the realization of how intimate the scene appeared his her.

    Evelyn''s face turned crimson. She stood up abruptly, throwing the tissue paper into the trash can beside his desk. "I think I''ve cleaned it all ott," she said, stepping back to create some distance between them.

    Her pulse raced as she tried to regain herposure. Before she could move further away, Derek''s hand shot out, grasping her wrist. "I don''t think so he said, pulling her closer, his eyes holding hers captive. "We are in your office. Anyone could walk in on us right now, and this wouldn''t exactly tell well of either of us Evelyn said, looking away from him. and trying to sound reasonable despite her thumping heart. Derek grinned, "I don''t know what you are talking about," he said as he dabbed at a stain on her blouse.

    "You also have some coffee stains on your clothes," he pointed out.

    "Oh! Thanks," she said, looking flushed as she withdrew her hand from his and stepped away.

    "I will t

    take care of it myself. Thanks," she said again.

    "I think my thigh is scalded he murmured as he rubbed his thigh.

    Concern colored Evelyn''s eyes, Tim sorry. Maybe you should go to the hosp...

    "It''s okay. I don''t think it''s that serious. Just get me another coffee while I change into something else. I have some spare clothes in here," Derek said, shifting back to his professional mode when he saw she looked worried.

    Evelyn nodded, "What about the soiled documents and the floor."

    "Don''t worry about it. My secretary will take care of it. Ask her toe in on your way out, Derek said and Evelyn gave him a nod before walking out of the office

    She let out a deep breath when she shut the door behind her and quickly informed Derek''s secretary that Derek wanted her inside.

    By the time Evelyn returned with the coffee, he had already changed his clothes and his secretary was not in sight

    "So, what is on my schedule for today? Derek asked and Evelyn went on to read out his schedule for the day.

    "By the way, where is your secretary? I didn''t see her outside earlier. Evelyn asked curiously.

    "She went to get me something for my thighs, he said, and Evelyn''s eyes widened.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    "I''m so sorry...

    wall

    "If you are, go on a date with me, Derek suggested.

    "No."

    "Okay," he said with a grin, choosing not to press since he had a n in mind already.

 Chapter 27

    Michael who had been thinking all morning about how to get more information on Evelyn and Derek''s interview arrangement decided to go speak with Derek''s secretary since he believed she would know all about their appointments,

    If he could find out the next time Evelyn would be stopping by to meet with Derek, then he could easily arrange to tail her when she leaves.

    He frowned when he got to Derek''s office lobby and saw that his secretary was not in her seat.

    y was inside the office with Derek, and not wanting to leave without getting the information he came for, he decided to

    Assuming that the secretary was go into Derek''s office.

    He knocked once on the door, and without waiting for a response, he opened the door and stepped in.

    He stopped in his tracks when he saw Evelyn seated there with Derek. Although her presence ignited a spark of anger in Michael, he didn''t let it show and instead, he pasted a polite smile on his face. Derek and Evelyn who had been in the middle of a conversation looked up when Michael walked in, and Evelyn suppressed a scowl.

    *I wasn''t expecting you this morning." Derek said as Michael walked further into the office after closing the door behind him.

    "I''m sorry to barge in...

    "You don''t have to apologize, Derek said and then turned to Evelyn whom he thought had no idea who Michael was

    "Eve? This is Michael, my cousin, and Michael, this...

    "There''s no need for the introductions. We already met, Michael said turning to smile at Evelyn who couldn''t help but wish she could knock the smile off Michael''s face. "Really?" Derek asked, giving Evelyn a questioning look and Evelyn offered a polite nod to Derek.

    "Yes, we''ve met. I will be waiting outside since you havepany," She said as she rose.

    Derek gave her a nod, and she walked away, her movement graceful andposed

    As the door closed behind her, Michael turned back to Derek, who gestured to him to sit down. "Are you having the interview already?" Michael asked as he sardown.

    Derek shook his head. "No, not yet. Evelyn is working closely with me to get a better understanding of me. I want her to be as objective as possible in whatever she writes. At the end of our month together, she would have gotten all the answers to her questions about me and the interview would merely be a mere formality," Derek sald and Michael nodded, suppressing a delighted smile.

    He was more than pleased with this information since it meant he and Sandra had ample time to put their n into motion. That sounds thorough I guess this is your way of controlling what is put out about you," he said and Derek nodded.

    "Exactly, I would hate for false news to be put out there, Derek said and Michael nodded.

    That makes sense. Anyway, I stopped by because I wanted to thank you for agreeing said and Derek waved it off:

    "It''s the least I could do," Derek said and Michael nodded.

    to attend the anniversary party y with me. It means a lot," he

    "Thanks once again. I will get going then and leave you

    you to your work, Michael said as he rose.

    "Did you reallye all the way here just to thank me! Derek asked and Michael chuckled

    or

    course. That''s so tell you how much it means to me that you honored my request. It''s not an easy feat getting the elusive Derek Stone to attend

    a party. And it''s even more satisfying knowing that you''ll be making your appearance at the party before the interview, Michael said and Derek chuckled in amusement.

    "As long as there won''t be any cameras or interviews at the party, we are good, Derek sadd and Michael nodded.

    "Nothing of the sort. Only premium entertainment, Michael assured him before heading for the door. Things were fallinContent ? N?velDrama.Org.

    were falling into ce perfectly, Michael thought with a satisfied smile as he stepped out of the office.

    When he saw Evelyn seated in the waiting area and busy with her phone, he approached her, his expression carefully neutral. "Hello, Evie," called and Evelyn looked up, her face unreadable.

    he

    Thought I

    Lasked you not to talk to me when you see me?" She asked irritably

    "Why are you so mean to me, Evie! Shouldn''t I be the one behaving this way towards you? You''re the one who broke things off between us, not inc. We don''t have to be enemies just because things didn''t work out between us. Whatever I did to make you change your mind about marrying me, I''m sorry. And you should know I didn''t tell Derek about our past so you can rx. I don''t mean you any harm. I still want what''s best for you,'' he said and Evelyn''s lips curved in a mirthless smile.

    It was obvious he was ying the victim and trying to pretend to be good to her. She needed to be cautious now more than ever. She thought as she looked at him, her brows perfectly arched in a questioning

    manner.

    "Am I supposed to thank you for doing me a favor?" she asked and Michael shook his head.

    "I didn''t say that. I''m just trying to say we should forget the past. You know what? Why don''t we catch a drink sometime? You know, clear the air properly," he suggested and Evelyn''s smile faded, reced by a steely look.

    "I don''t know what you''re thinking but that will never happen. If I nned to ever catch a drink with you in the future, then I wouldn''t have bothered calling off our wedding in the first ce. I do not want anything to do with you, not now. Not ever. warned in a slightly raised voice and Michael raised his hands in a gesture of surrender as he stepped back

    Keep your distance, Michael," she

    "Okay, okay. No need to raise your voice. Point taken, Michael said and then turned and walked away, his mind already working on the next steps of their n.

    Evelyn watched him leave, suspicion clouding her thoughts. What was Michael really up to? And why wasn''t he telling Derek about their past? Why was he trying to act nice! She mused.

    Should she just go ahead and tell Derek about their past!

 Chapter 28

    Long after Evelyn''s exchange with Michael, she kept thinking about their conversation and wondering why Michael had chosen not to tell Derek about their rtionship.

    What was Michael thinking? What did he want? Why was he suddenly being friendly now when he had seemed so bitter towards her in their first two encounters since they met at thepany! These were the questions that kept whirling in her mind.

    Derek, who had noticed her absentmindedness and had been hoping she woulde to him with her worries decided to ask, unable to bear seeing

    her so worried.

    "Are you okay. Eve?" he asked, snapping a finger in front of her.

    Startled, she looked at him, "Did you say something?" She asked apologetically.

    Seeing that she had not heard him, Derek asked again, "You''ve been distracted all day. Is there something bothering you?"Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn shook her head. "No. Everything is fine," she said as she nced at her wristwatch. She was relieved to see that it was almost time to leave. "Are you sure?" Derek asked again and she nodded.

    Although she was worried about why Michael was hiding their history and had considered telling Derek herself, she still wasn''t sure how he would

    reacL

    As much as she would have loved to tell him about it herself, she didn''t want to risk him changing his mind and deciding to call off the interview.

    It was best she yed cool until the end of their arrangement so she could do the interview and leave. Maybe after the interview, she would tell him about it if Michael failed to do so by then. "Yeah. I''m fine, just tired.

    1. Can I leave now since there''s nothing left to do and it''s a few minutes to your close hour?" she asked as she rose, carrying her handbag.

    why

    the hurry! I could drop you off if you want....

    "I wonder why you keep offering when you know I''m going to keep saying no," she cut in and Derek smiled.

    "I told you I don''t give up easily," he said and she rolled her eyes.

    "I''m going home. See you tomorrow," she said and headed for the door.

    Just as she got to the door, Derek stopped her, "There''s something I forgot to tell you about," he called, his tone casual yetmanding and she turned to face him, her expression impatient "What is it this time" she asked with a roll of her eyes, expecting one of his silly antics.

    "We will be traveling together this weekend for a business meeting, he announced, leaning back in his chair, his eyes gleaming with an unreadable expression.

    Her brows furrowed slightly and she gazed at him, searching for any sign of mischief. When she didn''t see any, she sighed as she returned to her

    Best

    "Why didn''t you mention it earlier? Where are we traveling to? And what''s the meeting about?" she asked and he leaned forward.

    "The resort in Varis needs more space. We need to buy more of the properties surrounding the resort but one of the owners is being stubborn. He has insisted that I speak with him myself, he said and Evelyn looked at him, suspicion lingering in her mind.

    "So, you''re going there to convince

    "Precisely that."

    chim

    to sell his property to you?" She asked, and he nodded.

    Remembering her parents'' anniversary to be that weekend, Evelyn smiled, taking it as her perfect excuse to avoid going on the trip with him.

    to see you in action. I have ns for

    "Well, I''m sure you''re going to handle that really smoothly. Unfortunately, I won''t be able to go there with you to see the weekend. I have to be somewhere important on Sunday," she said, and Derek''s eyes twinkled with amusement.

    He could tell she was probably saying that just to avoid going on the trip with him. He rxed back in his chair and held her gaze. "Did you say Sunday?" He asked, and she nodded.

    "Yes. It''s very important. I can''t miss it," she repeated

    Too bad. He had been thinking of asking her to apany him to the anniversary party.

    "Well, you don''t have to worry about that. I also have somewhere I need to be on Sunday. So, we''ll leave after the close of work on Friday and return on Sunday morning. You will be back in time for your ns," he said, and Evelyn sighed inwardly.

    "I hope this isn''t one of your usual antics," she said and Derek raised a brow

    "What do you think?" He asked, leaving her to decide whether it was a trick or noL

    She looked at him for a moment and then sighed, "Alright. I wille prepared for the trip on Friday," she said and Derek nodded.

    "Enjoy the rest of your day." Derek said as he watched her rise.

    "You too." Evelyn called back before walking out of the office.

    As she headed for the elevator she quickly booked a ride and by the time she stepped out of the building her ride into the cab.

    Was

    waiting

    outside and she gor

    Michael who had been in his car for over thirty minutes, waiting for her to step out so he could tail her and know where she was leaving now, immediately followed her cab at a discreet distance. Michael followed her for over thirty minutes and he frowned when the cab stopped in front of a cake and coffee bakery and she alighted from it He watched with a puzzled frown as she entered and was greeted by a young woman with red hair, whom he recognized to be Rayna, Evelyn''s friend from high school.

    Inside the bakery, Evelyn''s face lit up with a genuine smile as she embraced her old friend, Rayna.

    Rayma had been one of her closest friends in high school and had been on Evelyn''s bride train before she called off the wedding.

    Thinking about it now, Evelyn realized that Sandra had always tried toe between her friendship with Rayna, and had not left room for her to be friends with anyone else.

    Evelyn had run into Rayna some days ago while she was grocery shopping and they had agreed to meet up at Rayna''s bakery to catch up.

    "It''s so good to see you. Eve. You have no idea how happy I was after I ran into you the other day. How have you been?" Rayna asked as she signaled to her waiter to serve them what she had prepared. "I''m fine, Ray. I see you finally got the bakery you always talked about The ce looks really nice." Evelyn said, looking around the bakery. progress," R

    Thanks. It''s still a work in

    Rayna said, beaming with pride.

    "What have you been up to, Eve? What happened? Why did you disappear that way? I kept trying to reach you for some time. Your phones were off, you deactivated your Facebook. Even Sandy couldn''t tell me anything. It was as though you dropped off the face of the earth. What happened" Rayna asked as they were both served to sses of iced coffee and cake slices.

    Evelyn shrugged, "I''m sorry. I just needed some time alone. I wanted to clear my head, Evelyn replied, her smile tinged with a hint of sadness.

    Noticing this, Rayna reached across the table to touch Evelyn''s hand. "Why did you really call off the wedding? There were rumors that you called it off because you met someone else, but I don''t buy any of that. We all know how much you loved Michael. Remember how I used to wish to have something as beautiful as what you and Michael had? What really happened, Eve?" Rayna asked, her voice gentle but curious.

    Evelyn''s smile faltered for a moment, as she considered confiding in Rayna but after a moment''s thought, she decided not to.

    "Nothing really happened. I just realized I didn''t love him as much as I thought. I was getting married for the wrong reasons, hence I changed my mind before I could make the mistake, she said softly. "Enough about the past. What has been going on with you? Are you dating? Married?" Evelyn asked, changing the subject, and Rayna seeing that Evelyn didn''t want to talk about her past, decided to drop it. "My rtionship status is probably the only thing that hasn''t changed since you left," Rayna joked a

    "What about you?" Rayna asked and Evelyn shook her head.

    Evelynughed.

    "I''m still single," she said, and for a brief moment, she thought about telling Rayna about Samantha, but decided to wait until she told her father

    "By the way, our ss reunion ising up soon. They already booked the bakery for the date. You shoulde, Eve. It''ll be fun to catch up with everyone," Rayna said and Evelynughed, remembering all those faces from high school.

    "That I am sure of, I should definitelye." Evelyn said and Rayna nodded as they both continued to catch up

 Chapter 29

    As Michael waited for Evelyn outside the bakery, he decided to give Sandra a call to while away the time since he was bored.

    He knew she would be happy when he told her about Derek''s arrangement with Evelyn. He smiled as he dialed her line and it didn''t take long for

    her to receive the call

    "Hey, boo," Sandra greeted in a sultry voice that made him grin.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

    what?" He asked and she raised a brow.

    "Evelyn got hit by a car and she''s dead?" She asked, and Michael chuckled.

    "You''d like that to happen, wouldn''t you!"

    You know that would take care of ALL my problems, Sandra sald and Michael chuckled again.

    "Well, she isn''t dead. I have my eyes on her right now. She''s hanging out with Rayna at the moment," he said and Sandra frowned.

    "Evelyn is hanging out with Rayna? You mean that stupid bitch is hanging out with Rayna when she is yet to reach out to me!" Sandra asked in disbelief.

    "I told you she has changed, didn''t It Michael said and she sighed.

    "Do you think that maybe she found out about us? She asked with a frown.

    "There is no way she could have found out about us. We''ve been careful all this while. She doesn''t even know her," Michael said and Sandra nodded. you masterminded my meeting with

    "You are right. I just can''t understand why she is being this way," Sandra said, and seeing that she was upset, he decided to change the subject. "Well, why don''t I brighten your mood? 1 found out about her arrangement with Derek," he said, and Sandra perked up.

    "You did? What about it?" she asked excitedly,

    "That''s awesome" She screeched when Michael told her about meeting her in Derek''s office and what Derek had told him.

    Michael chuckled, "Yeah. It means the universe is on our side. Everything is going to go perfectly

    "Yeah. Are you still on her tail?"

    "Yes. I think this might take a while, Michael said, not looking forward to waiting on Evelyn for that long.

    "Don''t bother with that anymore. You can go home. I''m going to reach out to Rayna and find out what''s up with Evelyn. And now that I know Evelyn will be at Stone Corp, I think it''s best I pay her a visit at the office. If she won''te to me, I should go to her," Sandra said thoughtfully.

    Michael nced at his phone when it buzzed with an awaiting call notification, "Yeah. You should do that. I have to go now. My mom is calling," he said, before hanging up Sandra''s call immediately to receive his mother''s call and he drove off from there.

    After her call with Michael, Sandra waited for two hours before deciding to call Rayna since she wanted to be sure Evelyn w

    would have left by then. "Hello, Ray! How are you? Sandra asked, the moment Rayna received her call, her voice was warm and friendly since she had been in touch with Rayna the whole time.

    "Sandy? What a pleasant surprise to have you call," Rayna said she had always been the one reaching out to Sandra

    Sandra rolled her eyes. "Im sorry I haven''t been calling often. It''s just that I''ve been really busy with work, she said apologetically

    "It''s fine. It''s funny that Evelyn just left here and you''re calling now," Rayna said and Sandra smiled, pleased with herself for her perfect timing,

    "Oh, she did? You won''t believe that we both have not met yet because of our busy schedules, Sandra said, keeping her tone light and conversational.

    "Oh, really! I guess I''m lucky to have seen her before you then," ire said with a giggle, her voice bright.

    "I can''t believe you both met up without me. Why do I feel left out?" Sandra said, pretending to be hurt.

    "me that on your busy schedule. I hope you won''t be too busy to attend the reunion though. It''s going to be so much fun with Evelyn in attendance this year. Rayna said excitedly.

    Sandra raised an eyebrow. "Evelyn said she will be atte

    attending the reunion?

    "Yes. You''reing, right?" Rayna asked and Sandra smirked.

    "I wouldn''t miss it for anything. Especially not when my Evie will be there after all these years. Please keep me in the loop concerning the details of the reunion." Sandra said before hanging up.

    So. Evelyn was going to be at the reunion this year? Well, she was going to make sure to teach the bitch a bitter lesson, Sandra promised herself.

    Away from there, Evelyn''s heart felt lighter as she stepped into her apartment, the soft click of the door behind her marking the end of a long day.

    The Canibar hum of conversation drifted from the living room, and a smile tugged at her lips as she recognized the voices.

    She walked in to find Samantha and her stepmother, seated on the couch, their heads bent close together in animated discussion.

    Samantha''s face lit up the moment she saw her mother. "Mommy! Look who''s here!" she eximed, scrambling off the couch and running over to Evelyn. Evelyn stopped h

    at ire

    scooped her up, hugging her tightly, her smile widening as she looked over at

    "Hi, Mom. It''s so good to see you" Evelyn said warmly, her eyes meeting her stepmother''s.

    ire stood, her face breaking into a gentle smile. "Hello, Evelyn. Sorry, I stopped by unannounced. I wanted to see Sam and drop off some stuff"," Evelyn waved off the apology as she set Samantha down, "You don''t have to apologize. You''re always wee," she said as she nced down at Samantha who grabbed her hand and started pulling her towards the couch.

    "Mom, you have to see the dolls Grandma bought met They''re amazing!" she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

    Evelyn allowed herself to be led, her curiosity piqued. Samantha proudly disyed the dolls, each one meticulously dressed and positioned as if mid-adventure.

    Evelyn''s breath caught as she recognized them. These... these were mine when I was your age," she said softly, reaching out to touch one. Samantha beamed. "Really? What are their names?"

    Evelyn settled next to her daughter, picking up the first doll. This is Lily. She was my favorite," she said, brushing a strand of the doll''s hair back. She moved to the next one, her voice gentle and filled with nostalgia. "And this is Dora. And that one over there is Sophie."

    Samantha''s eyes were wide with wonder, "Wow, Mom, They''re so pretty. Thank you, Grandma," she said, turning to ire with gratitude. ire smiled, her eyes twinkling with warmth. "You''re wee, sweetheart. I''m d you like them."

    Evelyn turned to her step-mom, "Thank you. I totally forgot about them," she said, genuinely happy to see her daughter p

    After a few more minutes of doll-rted stories, Evelyn called out to Maya. "Maya, could you take Sam in to get ready for bed? I need to talk to my ying with her toys. Mom."

    Maya nodded,ing over to take Samantha''s hand. "Come on, Sam. Let''s get you into your pajamas.

    Samantha pouted for a moment but then smiled and followed May out of the room, clutching Lily to her chest.

    Once they were alone, Evelyn turned to ire, her expression sincere. "Thank you foring and spending time with Samantha. It means a lot to

    1. me.

    ire reached out, covering Evelyn''s hand with her own. "It''s my pleasure, Evelyn Samantha is my grandchild after all, and I cherish every moment I get to spend with her.

    Evelyn nodded, grateful. "I''m d, I know she loves having you here."

    ire''s expression softened as she rose, "I have to leave now. I was waiting to see you before I left," she said, and Evelyn rose to see her off.

    As they headed outside ire asked Evelyn about work and they made small talk until they got to ire''s car, and her expression turned serious.

    "I wanted to remind you about the anniversary party on Sunday. You haven''t forgotten, have your ire asked as she unlocked her car.

    Evelyn shook her head, "No, I remember. I''ll be there. Although I''m traveling for the weekend. But I''ll be back on Sunday in time for the party?" ire raised an eyebrow. "Are you taking Samantha wish you?"

    replied. The trip is work-rted. Sam will be home with Maya"

    "No" Evelyn frpl

    "Well, ire said thoughtfully, "I could stop by and keep an eye on her while you''re away. If that''s alright with you,

    Earlyn''s facet up with relief. That would be wonderful.

    1. d. Thank you. Mom"

    11:26 AM

    ire nodded. "Of course. Anything for my girls."

    There was a brief silence, and then ire''s expression turned more serious. "Evelyn, have you reached out to Sandy yet!"

    Evelyn shifted ufortably. "No, I haven''t"

    "Why not?" ire asked gently. "Did she do something to upset you?"

    Evelyn shook her head, not meeting her mother''s gaze. "No, she didn''t. I''m just not ready to see anyone yet. I''m still trying to settle in

    Since when did Sandy be anyone? ire mused. And although she didn''t buy what Evelyn had said, she nodded. "I see. I just hope youe around soon. Sandra misses you," she said as she got into her car.

    Evelyn nodded slowly. "I''m sure she does. I''ll see her at the party," Evelyn said as she shut the door, and she waved as ire drove off

    Evelyn took a deep breath, wondering how she would react when she eventually met Sandra again.

    Would she be able to act like she knew nothing!

 Chapter 30

    The next day. Evelyns found herself with an unexpected lunch break without Derek. Derek had left for a conference meeting without needing her assistance, which meant she had a rare moment of freedom during office hours.

    Deciding to take advantage of it, she stepped out of Derek''s office, her mind already drifting towards thoughts of a quiet cafe where she could dpress

    As she closed the door behind her, she heard a familiar voice. Her steps slowed, and her heart clenched painfully. Sandra was standing there, talking to Derek''s secretary. Evelyn''s stomach tightened with a mix of surprise and dread,

    Although she had been expecting Sandra''s visit from the moment she ran into Michael the first time and she had been bracing herself since she knew it was inevitable to see Sandra, seeing her now, she couldn''t control how she felt,

    Sandra''s voice carried a lilting warmth. "I was hoping to catch up with Evelyn. Is she in""

    Evelyn''s eyes met the secretary''s, who nced her way, and before she could respond, Sandra followed the secretary''s gaze and turned, her face lit up with delight,

    "Ah, there she is! Eviel" she eximed, her smile broadening as she hurried over.

    As Evelyn watched her approach her with that pretentious smile, she wanted nothing but to push her down, but she couldn''t. She had to control her emotions.

    way and leave, ignore Sandra like she had done Michael but she couldn''t do that either.

    She wanted to turn away

    She couldn''t do anything just yet. She needed to see how far this sly bitch could pretend And she wanted to gather evidence if she was going to eventually expose them.

    As Sandra approached and enveloped her in a bug. Evelyn stood rigid, her arms hanging uselessly at her sides. The embrace felt like an unwanted Intrusion, a forced act that reopened wounds she lud worked hard to close.

    Evelyn''s body stiffened, her hands clenching into fists at her sides. Memories and emotions she had buried deep began to surge.

    Thoughts from six years ago, Sandra''s mocking voice and that of Michaelughing at her, how she had been totally fooled without realizing who Sandra was stirred a lot of negative emotions within her, and even though she wanted nothing than to p Sandra hard in the face, and telling her she knew everything, she stood still.

    Sandra pulled hack, her smile faltering slightly as she noticed Evelyn''s cold response. "I was just asking about you. I''ve missed you so much, EvieTM Evelyn forced a tight smile, the effort straining her facial muscles. "Sandra, she acknowledged, her voice clipped.

    Tve been expecting to see you," Evelyn said, not bothering to say anything to Sandra''s earlierment.

    "Really?" Sandra asked even though she was doubting that in her mind. "If so, why didn''t you bother reaching out to me at least! It''s been six years, Evie. Why did you cut me off! If not for Michael. I wouldn''t have known you were back and working her. Sandra said, pretending to feel hurt.

    She knew that even though Evelyn was naive, she was no fool and would naturally know Michael had told her about her working at Stone Corp. "I was trying to settle in first. You look good," she said as she put some distance between them.

    Sandra''s eyes searched Evelyn''s face, looking for a sign, any sign, that she was wee. "Yer you visited Rayna and not me." Sandra said and when Evelyn looked at her in surprise that she knew, she shrugged.

    "Don''t look so surprised. I called Rayna to catch up with her and she told me you just left then. Sandra said but Evelyn said nothing as she wondered if Sandra and Michael were tailing her. "Can we talk? I was hoping we could catch up over lunch," she said softly, her tone tinged with hope.

    Evelyn''s heart pounded, a storm of conflicting emotions brewing within her. The anger and resentment she had bottled up for so long threatened to spill over. She swallowed hard, her throat tight. "I don''t see why not, seeing as you''vee all the way here to see me, Evelyn said and Sandra nodded.

    Sandra linked her arm through Evelyn''s, guiding her toward the elevator. "Thank you. I can''t wait to catch up with you." Sandra said excitedly while Evelyn remained lent

    As they rode the elevator down, Evelyn''s mind raced as Sandra chattered endlessly about work. Evelyn stared at the numbers descending, feeling Trapped. She couldn''t wait for the doors to open and release her from this suffocating proximity.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    Coer ooturle, they found a small cafe nearby. Sandra chose a quiet table by the window, and they sat down. Evelyn could feel the tension in her own lealy, every minele tint with uprave. She wanted to be anywhere but here.

    11.28 AM

    Although Evelyn had been hungry earlier, she didn''t have any appetite to eat in Sandra''s presence, and instead, she ordered iced coffee while Sandra ordered a burger and a can of Coke.

    *So, where are you staying? And why are you noting home yet?" Sandra asked after they had gotten their orders.

    "Because I have no ns ofing home. I guess you''re still close to Michael." Evelyn said watching Sandra closely. She had purposely

    y mentioned Michael, wanding to see how well Sandra could hide her ws in front of her.

    tre really

    "Yeah. Michael was really heartbroken when you called off things. We just couldn''t cut him off, you know? What happened, Evie! You were excited about marrying him. What changed?" Sandra asked and Evelyn snorted, unable to hold it.

    Seeing this Sandra frowned. "What Did he do something?"

    "I don''t want to talk about it. Let''s talk about something else," Evelyn said and Sandra nodded.

    "Okay. Let''s talk about something else. So, what''s this I hear about you working at Empowered and an interview with Derek Stone?" Sandra asked, and Evelyn smiled.

    "It''s exactly as you heard," she said, suspecting that this was the reason Sandra had visited her.

    "I''m curious about something. How did you convince Derek to do the interview!" Sandra asked and Evelyn smirked.

    "I don''t think that''s something I should be telling my rival, don''t you think?" Evelyn said and Sandra''s heart skipped a beat.

 Chapter 31

    "Rival!" Sandra asked, wonilering if Evelyn knew something.

    "Of course. We work for two different magazines, remember?" She said with a small smile when she saw the fear in Sandra''s eyes before it flickered

    "Oh, that''s what you mean," Sandra said with a relievedugh.

    "Of course. What else could I have meant!" Evelyn asked innocently.

    "Exactly why I was taken aback by your statement. I can''t imagine us being rivals. But you have ns of returning to the family magazine, don''t you" Sandra asked, and Evelyn shrugged.

    "Do

    o you want me tot I thought you''d be happy to run things there without me in the way," Evelyn asked, and Sandra''s smile faltered.

    "Why would you think that? I''ve missed you and would want you toe back. Dad and Mom miss you too. And talking about them, you have toe to their anniversary party. It''s this Sunday, Sandra said, and Evelyn feigned surprise,

    "Oh really?" She asked and Sandra nodded.

    "Yes. You absolutely have to be there. I''ll text you the details now," Sandra said wanting to forward the invitation to EvelynExclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

    "Do I need an invitation to attend my parents'' anniversary? I''ll be there. Thanks for letting me know." Evelyn said and Sandra smiled, happy that she had convinced Evelyn to show up for her humiliation. "Great! I''m sure they would be happy to see you. They''ve been worried and disappointed about you noting home," Sandra said and Evelyn smiled

    "I''m not so sure Dad would be happy to see me. He might not want me there," Evelyn said and Sandra extended a hand to Evelyn, wanting to hold her.

    Evelyn drew her hands down from the table and Sandra withdrew her hand. "You shouldn''t think that, Evie. Dad misses you too. I''m sure he''d be happy seeing you, Sandra said and Evelyn nodded. "I hope so." Evelyn murmured.

    "I can''t wait for you to start working in the familypany again, Sandra said and Evelyn resisted the urge to scoff.

    Was Sandra scared of hering back to take everything from her! Things that were rightfully hers? She mused with a shake of her head.

    "Me too," Evelyn said with an easy smile. It was bing easier now to just y along and watch Sandra and Michael make a fool of themselves. "So, do you have anyone special in your life right now?" Sandra asked conversationally,

    Evelyn nodded. "Yes, I do," she said, thinking of Samantha.

    "Aww. Tell me everything about him," Sandra said excitedly "Why does it

    does it have to be a he?" Evelyn asked, amused.

    "No way!" Sandra eximed with wide eyes, "You do women now? Is that why you called off things with Michael She asked in a whisper and Evelyn couldn''t help butugh

    Trust Sandra and her shallow brain to interpret things that way. "Who knows?" Evelyn asked with a shrug, not answering Sandra''s question.

    "I guess there''s nothing between you and Derek Stone then. Michael was sort of worried..."

    "Can we not talk about Make?" Evelyn snapped, sounding harsher than she meant.

    Surprised by her outburst, Sandra nodded, "Sure. So, do you know if Derek has someone in his life" She asked with a curious smile.

    "Why? Are you interested in him" Evelyn asked and Sandra smiled shyly.

    "I''ve heard a lot about him from Mike. So, I''m just curious," she said, and Evelyn rolled her eyes inwardly at her.

    "I have to get back to the office now. Evelyn said, ncing at her wristwatch. She was tired and wanted Sandra out of her face. Their conversation was beginning to wear her out. "Why do you see different, Evier Sandra asked, looking at Evelyn c closely.

    She could tell that Evelyn had changed like Michael had said. Evelyn seemed like she didn''t exactly want

    11:36 AM

    Maybe it was because this was the first time they

    were

    meeting in six years. Whatever it was, she would try to find out,

    "Different How so?" Evelyn asked with a raised brow.

    "I feel like I lost my best friend. You''re not telling me anything. You seem distant," Sandra said with a sad pout.

    "We''ve notmunicated for six years. It''s normal to feel that way," Evelyn said easily.

    "We should correct that immediately. Start by giving me your number, Sandra said and Evelyn nodded.

    As expected, she thought and then took Sandra''s phone to type in her number,

    "Good. Now, where do you stay? I should visit you for a sleepover...

    "No!" Evelyn cut her off,

    "No!" Sandra asked and Evelyn nodded.

    "Yeah. My ce isn''t conducive for a sleepover, I really need to go now and I''m sure Sandra rose too.

    you

    need to get

    back to work," Evelyn said as she rose and

    As they both walked out together, Evelyn couldn''t help wondering what Sandra was thinking and how she could continue putting on this act even after six years

    "Are youing in to say hello to Michael before you leave!" Evelyn asked when they got to the front of Stone Corp.

    Sandra shook her head, "Nah. I came solely to see you," she said and Evelyn nodded.

    "Alright then. See you on Sunday." Evelyn said with a wave and walked away before Sandra could attempt to embrace her again.

    As Sandra watched her go, she frowned. Something was up with Evelyn, and she nned to find out exactly what it was

    For now, she was d that despite Evelyn''s behavior she had gotten Evelyn''s phone number and told her about the anniversary party. That was a good start as far as she was concerned.

    As she got into her car, she dialed Michael''s line. "Hey! I just finished with Evelyn, Sandra said the moment Michael received the call.

    "So? How

    did

    go with her

    "You were right. She has changed. But I have her phone number now, and she agreed to attend the anniversary party," Sandra said proudly. "That''s great then"

    "What about you! Have

    Have you been able to nt

    the lure

    bug in Derek''s office!" Sandra asked hopefully.

    "Yes. I did that shortly after you both left. Thankfully his Secretary didn''t suspect a thing. Michael said and Sandra smiled

    "Perfect,¡± Sandra said, pleased that everything was falling into ce gradually.

 Chapter 32

    Long after Evelyn and Sandra parted ways, Evelyn kept thinking about their meeting and Sandra''s hypocrisy,

    No matter how hard she thought about it, she just couldn''t bring herself to believe that Sandra could be so two-faced.Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

    If she hadn''t seen Sandra and Michael with her own eyes six years ago, she would never have believed it even if a seer had told her about it.

    The thought that she was going to be seeing Sandra at the anniversary party and act like everything was okay again made her stomach chum

    She was going to leave to avoid any personal interaction with Sandra at the anniversary party, or else she feared she was going to lose it and p the fake smiles off her face.

    She narrowed her eyes when she remembered how Sandra had expressed her interest in Derek,

    Did Michael know about Sandra''s interest in Derek! Was that the reason Michael had seemed worried that she was getting close to Derek?

    That didn''t make sense. Why would Michael be okay with his lover wanting his cousin? Shouldn''t Michael and Sandra be nning on how to get married instead of Sandra dreaming of Derek when she and Michael still obviously had something going on between them?

    Or were they also nning to dupe Derek the same way they had nned to do to her! She mused and shook her head.

    She hoped that wasn''t their n otherwise she was going to make sure to ruin their ns and expose them. She wasn''t going to let anyone else be fooled by those two as she had been fooled.

    Evelyn raised her head when a finger snapped in front of her face and she was surprised to see that Derek had walked into the office while she was lost in her thoughts.

    "You''re back? How was your meeting!" she asked but Derek raised a brow.

    "It went well. What were you thinking about?" He asked curiously.

    "It''s nothing. Just trying to sort some stuff in my head," she said, and even though Derek was not convinced he gave her a nod and went around the desk to get into his seat.

    "I see. So? Have you!

    had lunch? Or should we go grab lunch" Derek asked and Evelyn shook her head.

    professional mode

    I''ve had lunch. Thanks," she said and he gave her a nod before picking up his phone to order some takeouts for himself While he waited for the meall, he busied himself with work, and Evelyn couldn''t help but be d that he was in his profe Evelyn rose when the secretary walked in with his lunch. "Il excuse you while you eat, she said, but Derek shook his head. "There is no need for that Sit down," he said, not wanting her out of his sight, especially not when she looked so distracted. He wondered if it had anything to do with why she was also worried the day before and wished she would confide in him and tell him whatever was bothering her.

    "You can sit down. And maybe you can ask me some possible interview questions while I eat," he suggested when Evelyn hesitated.

    He knew her well enough to know she would jump at any opportunity to ask him questions and he also hoped her questions would distract her from whatever was on her mind

    "Really Let''s do that then, Evelyn said eagerly as she sat down, and Derek hid a smile.

    "So? What is your fin

    first question?" Derek asked as he watched Evelyn take out her journal and a pen.

    Evelyn looked at him, her eyes gleaming with curiosity, "We''ve been talking about work this whole time, but you''ve never talked about your family I''d like to know more about your rtionship with your family, she said and Derek raised a brow as he chewed slowly.

    "Hmm. Are you asking for yourself or the magazine! Because I don''t want anything about my family put out there," Derek said after swallowing morsel of food in his mouth.

    r the

    Evelyn pursed her lips as she considered his question. Was she asking for herself or the magazine? She couldn''t deny that a part of her was curious about him, especially now that she knew of Sandra''s interest in him

    "For myself then," she said as she set down her pen and shut the journal.

    Derek smiled, pleased with her response. It felt good to know that Evelyn was curious about his life and wanted to know something about him. "Why do you want to know?" He asked, and she shrugged. Chayan 30

    "You said you want the interview to be as objective as possible. To bnce my view of you I think it''s only fair that I take a peek at your personal life. Don''t you think sal" Evelyn asked and Derek raised a brow as he considered her question

    personal hile, huh? Does that mean you''re going to ask me about my past and present rtionships too?" He teased and she rolled her eyes.

    No I don''t think there is a need for that." Evelyn said dismissively.

    I would also like to know the reason you don''t like being interviewed or attending social functions," she said and Derek chuckled.

    "You seem quite curious about me, Eve," Derek said and she shrugged.

    "Tim sure by now you are aware that a lot of people are curious about you, Mr Stone. It''s nothing personal." Evelyn said politely. "It''s off the record, right?" Derek asked to be sure.

    You have my word" Evelyn assured him.

    1. me. They are the most amazing parents anyone could ask for," Derek said and

    "I love my parents. They are the best thing that ever happened to m Evelyn smiled.

    I''m sure they feel proud of you." she said and he nodded.

    "Yeah. They never cease to tell me that." he said with a small thoughtful smile

    "Why do you sound like you don''t believe them?" Evelyn asked when she noticed a subtle change in his eyes and he shook his head.

    "It''s not that I don''t believe them. I do. It''s just that sometimes I wonder if I''m the one they see when they look at me," Derek said, and Evelyn frowned "What do you mean by thair

    Derek held her gaze for a moment as he contemted telling her something personal about himself that only the family knew about.

    "Im not their real son. I was adopted," he said in a low voice as he met her gaze.

 Chapter 33

    Evelyn''s eyes widened slightly in surprise at the unexpected information before she quicklyposed herself

    "I''m sure it doesn'') matter to them whether or not you were adopted. You''re their real son and all they see when they look at you is their son," Evelyn tried in reassure hien,

    "No. I''m not their real son," he insisted and Evelyn looked at him with a confused frown as she waited for him to exin himself since he seemed like he had something else to say.

    Knowing he was not going to be able to eat anymore, Derek packed what was left of his lunch and pushed it aside while Evelyn waited patiently,

    "After they adopted me I went home to an already prepared room. There were toys, clothes, and everything a boy of my age and size should have, waiting for me. Even some books and awards in the name, of Derek Stone," he said and Evelyn''s eyes widened again as realization dawned on her but she shook her head not wanting to believe it was what she was thinking.

    "I was too young at the time to understand what was going on. When they came and said my name was going to be Derek Stone henceforth, I epted it happily Living there was far better than being at the orphanage after all," he said and Evelyn''s heart ached for him as she listened to

    him

    1 was made to learn every single thing on those awards. The awards and certificates were not originally mine, but I earned them all by working hard. I became Derek Stone in every sense of the word. I became the son they lost, Derek said, confirming her suspicion.

    "Oh, Derek," she whispered.

    Looking into his eyes. Evelyn could feel the pain and vulnerability that was evident in his voice, and her hands itched to reach across the table and touch his infort.

    Now she understood what she meant when he said he wondered if he was the one his parents saw when they looked at him.

    "When I was in high school I was searching for something and I saw a picture of a litle boy. The original Derek Stone. It was then that I realized the reason I was adopted. We had simr features. The same brown hair and blue eyes. The closest they could get to their son," Derek said and this time she reached across the table and squeezed his hand

    "Tim so sorry," she murmured.

    "Don''t be." Derek said with a wry smile as he looked down at their hands. "Tim d they adopted me. I mean, who knows how my life would have turned out had they not! They''ve shown me nothing but love even though sometimes I think all they see when they look at me is their son and not me. I feel like I''m not living for myself. I feel like I''m living for them. Or perhaps their son is living through me," Derek said with a sigh.

    "Did you ever ask them?" She asked, and he nodded.

    "At first I tried to keep it away from them, but my Mother could tell something was wrong, so she asked until I opened up. It was after that time that I stopped joining the family for interviews. I was willing to be their son, but I didn''t want to stand in front of any more cameras pretending to be who I was not." Derek said and Evelyn finally understood why he refused to grant interviews.

    "That was why you wanted me to spend time getting to know you for who you really are," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "Yeah. That and the other reasons," he said, and Evelyn sighed deeply.

    "What about your biological parents? Have you ever tried to find them?" she asked and he shook his head.

    "There was no need to. My parents said they were told my biological parents died in an ident hence I ended up at the orphanage, he exined.

    "Do you remember them? How old were you when you were adopted?" she asked and he shook his head.

    "I was seven. I don''t remember anything from before I ended up at the orphanage," he said and Evelyn sighed deeply as she tried to let go of his hand, but he held on to her hand.

    her heart fluttered.

    "You should know that you''re the first person I''m talking to about this. The only person I''m going to tell this to," Derek said holding her gaze, and

    "Why did you tell me this?" she asked and he shrugged

    I''m sure you know why," he said as he let go of her hand.

    Evelyn ced her hands on her thigh and sped them together as she looked at him. She realized now that there was more depth she thought. She felt sorry for him and at the same time, she respected him.

    nth to the

    mam than

    "Why did you agree to the interview? You don''t have to do it if you..."Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org.

    "I''m putting my trust in you, Eve, I need you to do a good job. I expect the interview to be about me. The real me." he said, cutting her off,

    Evelyn feh a lump in her throat as she gave him a nod. "I promise to give this my best. Thank you for trusting me with this," Evelyn said, shing Derek a genuine smile for once.

    Derek smiled back. "It wasn''t so hard, was it?" He asked and she raised a brow.

    "What''" She asked in confusion.

    "Dropping the honorific and calling me Derek like you did earlier," he said, and she felt a blush creep up her face.

    Please, don''t go back to the whole Mr Stone thing. It''s tiring," he pleaded, and she looked at him hesitantly for a moment before giving him a nod.

    Her new knowledge about his background had sort of changed the way she looked at him, and she believed that by sharing his story with her, they ad crossed some sort of line and maybe it wouldn''t hurt to be a little more friendly with him.

 Chapter 34

    As Sandra freshened up and got ready to join her parents for dinner after work, she couldn''t help but reflect on her meeting with Evelyn.

    Seeing Evelyn again had stirred a nus of emotions-old memories, resentment, and the thrill of maniption.

    She was determined to uncover whatever secrets Evelyn was hiding and push her back into whatever hole she had crawled out of after all these

    As she entered the dining room, she was greeted by the warm, familiar scent of her mother''s cooking. "What''s for dinner?" she asked as she approached the kitchen.

    ire emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dish towel. "I didn''t hear youe in. Dinner is ready. Help me set the table," she ordered, and as Sandra and her mom finished. Eric joined them. "You''re right on time, honey? ire said with a smile.

    "That''s because the delicious aroma of your cooking drew me out," he said, and ireughed softly as they all settled at the dining table.

    While ire served the meal-roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and a medley of vegetables-Sandra and Eric discussed work.

    As they began to eat, Sandra decided it was time to bring up her visit to Stone Corp.

    1 visited Evie at Stone Corp i

    today, Sandra began, watching Eric''s reaction closely.

    Eric paused, his fork midway to his mouth. ire''s eyes widened slightly in surprise. "Oh? You did? How is she?" ire asked, her tone curious.

    Sandra smiled, savoring the moment. "She seemed fine although she wasn''t very receptive. She was sort of cold."

    "Gold? Why? Did something about between you two!" ire asked since she had been wondering that this whole time.

    It was one thing for Evelyn to have left the house and curmunication with her parents, but Sandra was her best friend. She couldn''t imagine how Evelyn could have done that considering how close they had been.

    Thave no idea. I suppose she''s upset I remained friends with Michael Sandra said with a shrug and a sad pout.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    "Does she have any right to be upset about that when she ended things with the poor young man herself?" Erie asked with a scowl

    "Did she tell you that? ire asked and Sandra shook her head.

    "Not exactly. But she hinted at it when she asked me if I was still friends with him. You know, I told her I found out she worked there from Michael." Sandra exined but Eric said nothing, his jaw set in a hard line

    "Anyway, I told her about the anniversary I

    y party and invited her over. I hope you don''t mind," she said, looking at Ene to gauge his emotions. ire''s looked at her with a raised brow. "Why would we mind! Evelyn is part of the family"

    Enc, however, frowned, his fork ttering against his te as he set it down. "You shouldn''t have bothered inviting her. She''s been keeping her

    an outsider. I see no reason she should be here."

    distance,

    acting like

    ire thot him a reproachful look "Enc, don''t talk like that. She''s still our daughter"

    When was thest time she acted like it" Eric asked, annoyed,

    Pleased with his reaction, Sandra decided to push further. "I also heard from a friend at Empowered that Evelyn returned to take over the role of editor-in-chief at Empowered. I asked her when she ns to return to the house ande back to thepany, but she seemed hesitant.

    ire''s re was sharp enough to cut through steel "Sandra, keep quiet, will you? If you''re not going to help the situation, don''t make it any worse than it is with your senseless words," She scolded, wondering how Sandra could be so tactless as to keep talking like that when she knew the state of things between Evelyn and her father,

    Eric''s expression darkened. "Why are you scolding her? She has done nothing wrong. And Evelyn can do whatever she wants. She can stay at Empowered forever, for all 1 care"

    The tension at the table was thigh as a curtain, and Sandra reveled in it. "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to worsen things," Sandra said, pressing her lips together.

    "Don''t be. You did nothing wrong dear. Eric assured her.

    They all returned their attention to their meal and are in silence until Sandra''s phone beeped, breaking the silence

    She nced at the screen and a smile crept across her face when she sa

    saw a text message from Michael

    11:26 AM

    [Hey, sexy, I think we''ve got something. If you can,e spend the night so you can listen to it too]

    Su soon! She mused excitedly knowing that he was referring to a recorded conversation between Evelyn and Derek.

    [I''ll be there in thirty minutes. She texted back before looking up.

    "Oh oh. I forgot all about my ns for tonight. I''m going for a sleepover at a friend''s ce. I''ll head to the office from there tomorrow," she said as she pushed away from the table. ry I can''t do the dishes tonight, Mom. I have to leave now," she said and ire nodded.

    "I''m sorry

    "Alright, dear. Be careful."

    Sandra kissed her mother''s cheek and gave Erie a brief hug before going in to change her clothes and heading out,

    As she drove to Michael''s ce, her mind buzzed with anticipation. She was certain that whatever Michael had found was bound to be interesting.

    When she arrived, Michael was waiting for her at the door and he greeted her with a kiss before leading her inside.

    "You won''t believe it. We''ve got something HUGE, he said excitedly guiding her to the living room where hisptop was set up.

    Sandra sat down, her excitement barely contained. "What did you find?"

    Michael yed the recording, and as Sandra listened, her eyes widened at first, and then a wicked smile spread across her face as she met Michael''s gize

    "Did you know about it? I mean him being a recement for your dead cousin?" Sandra asked and Michael shook his head.

    "I knew he was adopted but I never knew he was a recement, and I definitely didn''t know he felt this way or that this was the reason he didn''t agree to show his face in public, Michael said with a chuckle. "I''m d that he knows he is a nobody and he knows his ce," Michael said with a smirk.

    "This is perfect," Sandra said, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "We''ve got her right where we want her."

    Michael nodded, his expression mirroring her own. "Now we just need to figure out h

    out how to proceed and make sure it''s never traced back to us.

    I wonder why he chose Evelyn for this. Do you think maybe he likes her?" Sandra said thoughtfully.

    "Does that matter? It won''t matter by the time we are done," Michael said and Sandra grinned. "You''re right," Sandra said as she leaned back in her seat, feeling a surge of triumph.

    With this, she was well on her way to getting what she wanted. By the time they were done with Evelyn, even Empowered Magazine wouldn''t want her anymore.

 Chapter 35

    The rest of the week milled by quickly and on Friday, immediately after the close of work, Derek and Evelyn left for their trip.

    Even though as usual, Derek had been very professional with her and she had tried to treat him a little bit friendlier, Evelyn couldn''t still shake off the feeling that she was making a mistake by going on this trip with him.

    She had ined observing Derek, hoping to gauge from his reactions if the trip was just a ruse to be with her alone so he could continue trying to seduce her as he had said.

    However, no matter how hard she had tried, she had been unable to discern anything unusual from his behavior and even though it was supposed to make her feel rxed, she couldn''t help feeling even more anxious. He was unpredictable and she was beginning to feel worn out from having her guard up all the time.

    As they drove into Stone Corp''s luxurious resort in Varis at past midnight, Evelyn sighed, her nerves tightly wound. The idea of being away like this with him even though on a business trip, sort of stirred something within her and she feared if she wasn''t cautious enough, she might just end up falling for his tricks here.

    The resort was breathtaking, with its grand building designs and lush surroundings, but Evelyn''s mind was too preupied to fully appreciate it as they got out of the car.

    Derek nced at her, hiding a smile as he extended a hand. "Are you going to stand here all evening or go in with me, my love?" he asked, his tone yful and Evelyn scowled at him.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    This was the part of him she was desperate to avoid, Evelyn mused as she ignored his hand and walked ahead into the resort.

    With a chuckle, Derek harried after her, and together they made their way to the reception area of the resort, and before they could get to the reception stand the manager hurried towards them with his most polite smile.

    "You''re wee. Sir. We''ve been expecting you since you informed us of your visit and everything has been arranged as..."

    "Thank you" Derek said, curting him off before he could finish, "We can discuss anything else in the morning. We are exhausted and need to get some rest." Derek said, and that was when the manager nced at Evelyn and acknowledged her with a polite nod.

    "I will escort you to your suite, Sir," he said and Derek looked at him.

    "I''d like to make sure she is sealed in her room before 1 leave for my suite. Lead us to her room."

    "Her room! I''m sorry, sir, but your secretary didn''t inform us about a second room. We prepared your suite as usual. We didn''t realize you were corning with someone, the manager replied, causing Evelyn''s frown to deepen

    Evelyn looked from the manager to Derek in disbelief, "Well, I''m sure we can easily resolve that. You can take me to anyfortable room she said and the manager shed her an apologetic look. "I''m sorry, ma''am, but the whole resort is fully booked. It''s the weekend, he exined as though reminding Derek of how busy the resort usually was on weekends.

    "How could she have made such a mistake? I should call her right now and fire her!" Derek said dramatically as he took out pretending like he wanted to dial has secretary''s line since he didn''t want Evelyn to figure out that this was all his n.

    Hearing this. Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat, as different thoughts started crossing her mind. She nced at Derek, searching for any sign that this was his doing, but he looked like he was pissed.

    "Don''t You shouldn''t call her. It''ste in the night already. And it''s only a mistake. Anyone can make mistakes," she said, stopping him.

    "What are we going to do then! This is a mess!" Derek said pping his face dramatically.

    "I''m very sorry for the oversight, sir. Perhaps you could both share your suite?" The manager asked with a wince,

    The reality of the situation began to sink in, and Evelyn felt a surge of anxiety. How was she supposed to share a room with Derek!

    The same man that had been the object of her fantasies for the past six years? The man who had made her feel so good despite how much her heart had been aching at the time.

    How was she supposed to find the will to resist him if he tried yi

    ying any of his silly tricks on her when they were alone in such proximity?

    This wasn''t going to happen. It couldn''t. She might have decided to treat him a bit more friendlier than before, but that didn''t mean that she would befortable sharing a room with him.

    "I don''t think it''s going to work. C''mon! How do you expect us both to share a suite?" Derek asked before Evelyn could prote Whatche can we do? Are there no other options How many bedrooms are in this site?" Evelyn asked the manager

    with an edge of desperanton in

    11.27

    "It is a one-bedroom suite, the manager said and Derek sighed.

    Tri so sorry, Eve. I don''t even know what else to do right now. I''m so exhausted and can''t think straight," Derek said and then sighed,

    "I think we might have to share the room, Eve," he said, causing Evelyn''s pulse to quicken.

    There has to be another option," she said weakly, ncing at the manager but he shook his head.

    "I apologize for the inconvenience, but there''s nothing else we can do, the manager said apologetically.

    "It''s okay. Leave us. I''m sorry I dragged you out of bed sote, Derek said to the manager and he nodded and handed Derek the card to his suite before excusing himself and Derek signaled the bellhop to leave as well.

    "I can''t share a room with you. This ispletely unprofessional and uneptable, Evelyn said the moment they were alone.

    "Would

    you rather stand out here and argue or can we go in? I know you''re a logical person, and your action right now is not logical," Derek said as he picked up their luggage and headed for the elevator Evelyn feeling irritated by the situation followed him, her eyes narrowing as she thought about how perfectly convenient this whole mess was for

    Derek

    "Don''t tell me you nned this. Did you?" she asked the moment they got into the elevator.

    "What if I did! You said you weren''t scared of whatever I nned to do since it wouldn''t work on you, didn''t you?" Derek asked cocking his brow in amusement and Evelyn swallowed, feeling cornered by Derek

    "What? You really nned this?" She asked, wondering why she believed the show he had put up out there just now.

    he said, even though he had made sure to book any empty

    Derek chuckled "How could I have nned this! You heard him! The resort is booked," he rooms they might have had.

    "I''m not stupid, Derek. I know this is your family Reson.."

    "I love it when you call my name. Say my name, baby," Derek drawled and she red at him,

    "What?

    Feeling scared of what might happen between us if we are alone?" He asked with a teasing smile

    Evelyn took a deep breath. There was no way she was going to let him know she was indeed scared of all that might happen if she stayed in that room with him.

    "Why should I be?"

    the asked in a challenging tone and Derek shrugged.

    "I don''t know. Maybe because you probably don''t trust what you might do when you''re alone with me. After all, this isn''t the first time we would be alone together in a room, and you..." Evelyn was d when the elevator opened at that moment and she hurriedly walked out of it so that Derek wouldn''t have the satisfaction of seeing the blush on her face.

    "For someone who doesn''t want to share a suite with me, I''m shocked you''re in a hurry to get there," Derek teased as he followed her.

    Evelyn turned to re at him, "I''m only here to work and nothing more. I trust myself enough to know that nothing will ever happen between us again.." "Then prove it," Derek said and Evelyn swallowed.

    "How?"

    she asked without meeting his gaze.

    "Prove it by sharing the suite with me. If you''re able to resist me, then I promise to stop trying to seduce you, he said and Evelyn considered it.

    It was only for two nights. It was a fair deal for her as long as she kept hier resolve. She would resist all his attempts in these two nights and make sure he gave up on her. "Fine. It''s a deal. I hope you will keep your word at the end of this," she said and Derek nodded, a wicked nt flickering in his eyes

    walked into the site

    Evelyn had just yed into his trap and it made him happy knowing he was going to win this. Derek thought as he unlocked the door and they

 Chapter 36

    As Evelyn and Deck stepped into the suite after Derek opened the door with his card, Evelyn couldn''t help surveying the room.

    She sighed when her eyes fell on the single king-sized bed dominating the space.

    Her eyes then darted to the couch in the room. Although it was small, she decided it was best she slept there.

    "I will take the couch," she said firmly, crossing her arms over her chest

    The scent of freshundry wafted from the bed, enticing her to reconsider, but she stood firm. There was no way she was going to share a bed with this daredevil, feel the warmth of his body, or inhale the enticing scent of his skin.

    Derek nced at the plush sofa, and then back at her as he undid his tie. "You won''t befortable there. Besides, we can share the bed. It''s big enough for both of us. You don''t have to be scared," he said with a grin, his deep voice low and peruusive.

    The sound of his voice seemed to vibrate through her body, making her skin tingle but Evelyn shot him a re, her eyes shing with determination. "I''d rather not." she said fiercely, her voice firm. "I thought we were beginning to get along." Derek said since he had noticed how friendly she had been in the following days after he told her the story of his adoption.

    "Getting along doesn''t mean I want to sleep on the same bed with you." Evelyn went to sit on the couch, the soft cushions enveloped her, but she couldn''t rx. How could she when she was supposed to spend not just one but two nights with Derek?

    "Why? Wouldn''t it be nice to have someone you consider sexy and hot on the same bed with you, and perhaps giving you all the pleasure you can think of having?" Derek asked with a wink and Evelyn''s breath caught as the memory of that night flickered through her mind.

    She shook her head when she realized she was starting to imagine what had happened that night. "I know what you''re trying to do. But I can assure you that it won''t work," Evelyn said, crossing her legs as though that could stop the hotness that was already enveloping the area between her legs. Derek chuckled, the sound low and husky, as he watched her. He could tell it was working. "Alright, suit yourself. But don''t you dare think I''m going to act like a silly gentleman and offer to sleep on the couch? I won''t. It''s either you join me on the bed or I sleep on it alone," he warned.

    "I will sleep on it alone." Evelyn said and he grinned,

    "I can assure you that you will end up sleeping on this bed with me willingly before the end of this trip: Derek said, his eyes holding a determined. glint as he unbuttoned the first two buttons of his thirt His gaze seemed to burn into her skin, making her feel even m

    more hotter and flustered than she was already feeling.

    Evelyn''s heart raced as she stared back at him, her mouth feeling dry. She could feel the tension between them, like a thick nket, drawing them together and enveloping them

    She could hear her heart pounding in her ears and she knew he would hear it too if he came too close to her.

    Maybeing to this trip and agreeing to sleep in the same room with him had been a mistake. A reckless one. She should have known better than to trust the sneaky bastard. She was not going to give him the satisfaction of knowing how much being in the wouldn''t let him weaken her resolve

    "That''s not going to happen," she said, struggling to keep her cool.

    room together was affecting her. She needed to show him she

    "You think so!" Derek asked as he walked up to her

    When Evelyn saw him approaching her, she quickly rose and moved away from the coach, putting some distance between them.

    But for

    every step she took away from him, Derek took two steps forward, wanting to close the gap

    between

    them.

    They both continued to dance around in circles until her legs hit the wall, trapping her. The soft thud of her back against the wall seemed to echo through the room, causing a smirk to appear on Derek''s face. Evelyn''s heart raced faster, her senses heightened as Derek ced both hands on the wall on both sides of her, his gaze intense and unyielding She could feel the warmth of his body, even though he wasn''t touching her, and her skin tingled in response.

    She tried to calm herself, to get herself to think about the right approach in a situation like this but she couldn''t think straight with him so close All she could think about was how those wonderful hands of his and lips had pleasured her six years ago.

    The thought of it made her feel hot all over and she became breathless. She needed to get away, to clear her head. "L. I think I need some air," the

    stangmered, trying to push past him.

    But Derek didn''t budge. Instead, he leaned in closer, his lips almost touching her ear. "You''re not going anywhere, Eve, It''s past midnight, remember?" His voice was a gentle whisper, but it sent shivers down her spine.

    She felt trapped, and cornered, and her mind screamed for escape. But her body seemed to betray her, leaning in closer to Derek''s warmth, craving his touch

    "What are you trying to

    trying to do?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Her throat felt dry, and she swallowed hard, trying to moisten it.

    "Do you want to force yourself on me?" she asked again, her voice barely audible as she met his gaze.

    "Why would I want to do that when I can clearly see that you also want

    int me?" he asked and Evelyn shook her head.

    "No, I don''t," she said, more to herself than to Derek.

    "Are you sure? Because I think otherwise, Derek said, leaning in closer, his lips brushing against her neck.

    Evelyn''s eyes fluttered closed, her body betraying her resolve. She felt her head tilting slightly, giving him ess to her skin as her chest rose and fell with every breath she drew.

    As his lips made contact, a spark of electricity ran through her body. She felt herself melting into his embrace, her resistance weakening. But then, something inside her snapped.

    She remembered his promise earlier. If she gave in to him now, then he would never stop. He would keep wanting her and then eventually he would find out about Samantha. She couldn''t let that happen. She couldn''t let anyone know she had a child for Michael''s cousin. That would make thingsplicated.

    Immediately, her eyes flew open, and with a surge of determination, Evelyn pushed him away, her hands on his chest. "No, Derek. No, I don''t want you," she said firmly, her voice clear and strong, She looked into his eyes, her gaze steady.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    Derek''s eyes narrowed slightly, but he didn''t move closer. He seemed to be waiting for her next move,

    The tension between them was tangible, and the air was thick with unspoken desire.

    Seeing the glint of stubborn determination in green her eyes, Derek chuckled. "Fine. I''m going to freshen up. You can shower after me, Derek said as he put some distance between them and Evelyn released the breath she had been holding

    "And you don''t have to worry. I will never force myself on you or do what you do not want. You can rest assured that when we finally do have sex, you will be very much willing and eager to do it," he said before making his way into the bathroom.

    Evelyn sighed as she went to sit on the couch and then reyed the scene in her head. For a moment she had felt weakened and had wanted nothing more than to have him inside of her.

    She had managed to resist him this night but would she be able to do that tomorrow! She mused.

    She would just have to keep reminding herself of the fact that Derek was Michael''s cousin. Maybe that would stop her from doing anything stupid. Evelyn thought with a sigh.

 Chapter 37

    Evelyn woke up the next day to find herself on the bed with Derck nowhere in sight. She looked down at herself and sighed in relief when she saw that she was still very mich clothed which meant nothing had happened in her sleep.

    How did she get on the bed? She mused since she could remember sleeping off on the couch after she had freshened upst night.

    Had she been exhausted to the extent that she didn''t know when Derek carried her to the bed? How could she have let herself sleep that deeply! She wondered with a frown as she got off the bed. Seeing as Derek wasn''t in sight, Evelyn assumed he had left for his meeting without her and decided to use the opportunity to check on Samantha and then freshen up before he came back, After the quick phone call, Evelyn took out the clothes that she had arranged to wear for that day and headed for the bathroom but before she could open the door, it opened and Derek stepped out, Evelyn froze, her eyes widening as she took in the sight of Derek emerging from the bathroom, d only in a white towel that hung loosely around his waist. Water droplets glistened on his toned chest, tracing a path down his sculpted abs and highlighting his athletic build

    He exuded a raw masculinity that stole the breath from her lungs and left her speechless.

    How had she not heard the sound of the shower? Had she been that distracted? She mused as she quickly looked away, feeling her cheeks heat up. "Good morning. Eve. Sleep well Derek asked, a hint of amusement in his voice as he watched her reaction.

    "I guess I did," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "I didn''t realize you were in there," she said and Derek smirked, leaning casually against the doorframe.

    "Is that why you can''t even look at me straight in the eye! It''s just my bare chest, Eve. I''m not entirely naked... yet. Besides, you''ve seen way more than this," he said making her more flustered as she tried not to imagine himpletely naked without the towel.

    She had barely recovered fromst night''s torture, yet here she was, going through another round.

    She desperately tried to maintain herposure. "I don''t know what you''re talking about. Can you get out of the way? I need to g managing to hold his gaze while trying not to let her eyes go on an excursion. "Sure," Derek replied, stepping aside but not without brushing slightly against her as he moved.

    Evelyn clenched her jaw, determined not to give him the satisfaction of seeing her rattled.

    get ready," she said.

    Once inside the bathroom, she took a deep breath and let the warm water from the shower calm her nerves. She couldn''t afford to lose her focus, especially not with Derek constantly pushing her buttons. All she had to do was survive this day and night, and then Derek would stop bothering her, she told herself as she showered

    After washing up, she dressed and was relieved when she stepped out of the bathroom to find a fully clothed Derek seated on the edge of the bed. scrolling through his phone,

    For a minute she had been worried that he wouldn''t dress up

    up and tret

    try to tease her some more

    "We should go get breakfast," she said, hoping to avoid any further tension

    "We should," Derek replied as he stood up and led the way to the beachfront

    reyaurant.

    Derek had reserved a table with a perfect view of the water, wanting this to feel like the perfect resort vacation he had envisioned.

    As they settled into their seats, Evelyn couldn''t help but admire the setting. The restaurant was open-air, with a gentle breeze rustling the palm leaves

    The scent of fresh seafood and tropical fruits filled the air, as they ate.

    "So, what do you think of the resort Like it" Derek asked casually as they ate

    seen thus far," she said and Derek nodded with

    "I don''t think I''ve seen enough of it to have an opinion about the whole ce, but I like what I''ve seen t approval.

    "That''s a good response. Why don''t we take a stroll after breakfast a

    and I can show you around?" Derek suggested easily.

    Hearing this, Evelyn frowned. Why did it suddenly feel like they were on a weekend getaway! She mused and then her frown deepened when a thought caused her mind.

    In definitely couldnot be. She told herself with a shake of her head.

    "I don''t think that''s necessary. We are here for work and not for a getaway. When are you meeting with thend owner?" she asked taking a sip of her freshly squeezed orange juice as she observed Derek

    "Oh.

    that," he eximed, pausing his fork halfway to his mouth. He set it down and looked at her with a hint of a smile.

    "It''s been resolved. So, we can rx," Derek said and Evelyn swallowed as she hoped it wasn''t what she was thinking.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    "When was it resolved?" she asked, telling herself to calm downl

    "I met with him earlier this morning" he said and Evelyn frowned.

    "It''s barely 10 AM." Evelyn pointed out suspiciously. "Am I supposed to believe that you n

    met him already?" She asked and Derek shrugged.

    "You didn''t even know when I carried you to the bed and if you didn''t wake up on the bed you won''t believe I carried you there," he pointed out and her cheeks flushed

    "You should have left me on the couch....

    "And have youin of body aches when you wake up?" Derek cut in as he resumed eating

    "Why didn''t you wake me up to go with you? Isn''t that the reason you brought me along in the first ce?" She asked, not bothering to answer his question

    Derek shook his head. "I didn''t have the heart to disturb your sleep when I saw how beautiful and peaceful you looked," he said and even though she still didn''t believe himpletely she decided to give him the benefit of the doubt

    "So? How did it go? Did he agree?" she asked and he smiled.

    "Of course. Who do you think I am? I can be very persuasive when I put my mind to it," he said with a smile that told her she was treading on dangerous grounds now.

    "We should go back now that you''re done with your business," she suggested,

    "We can''t go yer, Eve. We had a deal. It''s just today and after today it''s over. Except you''re saying you give up and I win, Derek said, his tone challenging.

    Evelyn sighed. It was only for today and she would be free of this torment. "Fine. Let''s just stay and leave tomorrow as we nned," she said and Derek smiled. "Since we''re staying, you''ll have to treat this like a getaway with me. This trip is

    is no longer a business trip but a getaway with the love of my life... "I''m not the love of your life and I''m never going to be, Evelyn countered holding his

    "Never say never, Eve. I won''t give up," he said and she raised a brow.

    "You said you would if I don''t give in to you this weekend," she reminded him.

    gaze.

    "Yes, I said that. But I also know you will give in, so I won''t give up," he said and she rolled her eyes

    "I won''t

    "We''ll see about that. C''m

    mon let''s eat so I can go show you around this ce, he said and Evelyn scowled.

    Just as she opened her mouth to say she''d rather return to the suite, she paused when she realized staying out with him was better than staying in the suite since it meant he wouldn''t have the chance to seduce her in public.

    Without a second thought, she shed him a smile. Till like that," she said and Derek nodded as he returned her smile.

    Although Evelyn was still suspicious about the trip and how everything had yed out as she suspected Derek had lied decided to focus on resisting his advances and making sure she won their bet d about having a meeting, she

 Chapter 38

    After breakfast, Derek led Evelyn on a tour of the resort. As they strolled along the cobblestone paths lined with beautiful flowers, Derek pointed out various amenities to her.

    "That''s the qu, and over there is the fitness center. The public pools are on the other side of the resort, each with its unique style," Derek pointed ou and Evelyn nodded, taking in the beauty of the resort.

    It was a paradise, and despite her reservations about Derek, she couldn''t help but feel a bit enchanted by the ce and enjoy herself.

    As they walked past a lush garden, Derek''s phone rang. He nced at the screen and smiled when he saw that it was Michael calling.

    "Excuse me," Derek said to Evelyn before taking the call.

    "Hey, what''s up?" Derek asked the moment he received the call.

    "Where are you! Did you forget we had ns? I stopped by the hotel so we could work out together as nned but you''re not in. Did you go homer

    "No. I forgot about that. I''m sorry. Something came up so, I''m away on a business trip in Varis, Derek replied, keeping his tone casual.

    Michael frowned, his curiosity piqued. "Varis? Did something happen? Is everything okay over there?"

    Before Derek could answer, Evelyn''s phone rang. She nced at the screen and when she saw it was Maya, she quickly nced at Derek and said. 1 need to take this. I will be right back."

    She stepped away, giving Derek some space so she could talk to Samantha since she had asked Maya to call her when they were about to leave for the amusement park.

    "Is that empowereddy''s

    clearly said he was away just heard?" Michael asked with a frown wondering why he would be hearing Evelyn''s voice when Derek had

    a business trip in Varis.

    Derek hesitated for a moment, but seeing the need to lie, he nodded even though Michael couldn''t see him. "Yes, Mike, it is, I brought her with me on this trip, Derek said and Michael couldn''t help the burst anger he felt within him, knowing that Evelyn was with Derek.

    Even though his blood was boiling with anger, he knew better than to show it. He took a deep breath to calm his mind. "You brought her with you? Why! She''s not your secretary," he pointed out, trying to sound natural.

    "It''s all part of me wanting her to know about me before the interview...."

    "Still, don''t you think you''re trusting her too much? Taking her on business trips and all? Michael asked and Derek sighed.

    "I understand your concerns, Mike but you don''t have to worry. I know what I''m doing," Derek said and Michael rolled his eyes.

    "Alright then. Now that you''re in Varis, what about the party tomorrow? Don''t tell me you won''t make it, Michael said and Derek chuckled. "I have been waiting for you to ask that

    "Is that your way of saying you''ll miss it?" Michael asked, not wanting to believe that Derek was about to ruin his n just before it could hatch.

    "Don''t worry. I won''t miss it. I told you I would go so I definitely will be back in time for it, Derek said and Michael smiled, d that their n was still in ce.

    "Okay then. I''ll leave you to your work," Michael said and then hung up.

    Once Evelyn who was busy on the phone with Samantha saw that Derek was done with his phone call, she ended their call, promising to check on Samantha againter.

    "Is everything okay?" Derek asked, and she nodded.

    "Sure," she said and they continued their tour.

    After their tour around the resort, Evelyn tried all she could to keep Derek outside with her and she was d it worked.

    Now, it was evening and she couldn''t help feeling anxious all over again as they both stepped back into their suite after having dinner.

    "I go shower quickly, Derek said, before Evelyn could and she couldn''t help wondering why he always showered before her.

    "Why don''t I shower first?" She asked and he smiled.

    "Because then you''d go to bed before I get out and I don''t want that," Derek said and she sighed.

    113/AM

    "It doesn''t make any difference whether you shower first or I do," she said, deciding that after he was done showering, she would shower and then go to her. She wouldn''t give him the chance to try to seduce her like he had done the previous day.

    "Oh, ir dues. It makes plenty of difference. You will see," Derek said with a wink before walking away to the bathroom.

    While she waited for Derck, who was in the shower, Evelyn was haunted by the image of a half-naked Derek from that morning no matter how hard she tried not to think about it.

    Waiting to distract herself, she walked over to the balcony and called Maya again so she could confirm that Samantha had had dinner and was getting ready for bed.

    When she called and found out Samantha was exhausted from all the fun of the day at the amusement park and was just getting into bed, she decided to tell Samantha a made-up bedtime story. Derek smiled when he came out and didn''t see her inside the room as he had expected.

    Just as he picked up his phone to call her and let her know he was out, he noticed the balcony door was open and he set down his phone and decided to go to her instead.

    By the time Derek joined her at the balcony, Samantha had slept off and Evelyn was talking to Maya.

    When he saw that she was on the phone, he snuck up behind her, and before she could sense his presence, he wrapped both arms around her waist and kissed her neck, making her freeze. Evelyn''s heart raced at the sudden contact. The warmth of Derek''s breath against her neck sent shivers down her spine.

    She felt a surge of conflicting emotions-part of her wanted to pull away, while another part was dangerously close to giving in to the r

    Stop," she said, her voice trembling slightly as she tried to maintain herposure on the phone.

    Maya''s voice crackled on the other end, "Are you still there?"

    Yes, sorry, I''m here," Evelyn managed to reply, her voice steadier now. "I''ll call you tomorrow."N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    She hung up and turned around to face Derek, her eyes locking with his, and only then did she realize her mistake.

    She shouldn''t be facing him. She should be running in the opposite direction.

    moment.

    The intensity of his gaze made her breath catch in her throat. For a moment, they stood there, the tension between them thick as a cord "Why are you doing this?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Because I can''t stop thinking about you," Derek admitted, his voice low and sincere. He leaned in closer, his lips inches from hers.

    "You''re driving me crazy, Eve. I''ve never wanted anything in my life as much as I want you. I long for you. I long to feel your skin against mine. I want to hear you moan my name. I crave the taste of your lips." he whispered in a husky voice as he brushed his hand cupped her cheek, his thumb rushing gently against her skin.

    Her resolve wavered as he spoke. She could feel the pull, the temptation to surrender to i

    Slowly, inexorably, he closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a soft, lingering kiss.

    The

 Chapter 39

    my wrapping around his Evelyn''s mind screamed at her to stop, but her body betrayed her, responding to his touch. She kissed him back, her arms wra neck as she melted into the kiss

    For a brief moment, she let herself get lost in the sensation and the world around them faded away. Nothing else mattered but what she was feeling.

    All she wanted for this brief moment was to forget all about the past and to live a little, but then reality crashed back in

    She couldn''t do that. Not when a lot was at stake. Not when she had to protect Samantha and herself

    She pulled away abruptly, her heart pounding. "I can''t do this," she said, her voice filled with regret. "I''m sorry, Derek

    Before he could say anything, she turned and hurried back inside the suite. She needed to get away, to clear her head. She grabbed her toiletries and disappeared into the bathroom, locking the door behind her.

    Once inside, the leaned against the door, taking deep, calming breaths. Her lips

    r lips still tingled from the kiss, and she could feel the lingering warmth

    of his touch on her skin. She shook her head, trying to dispel the memory.

    Evelyn sshed cold water on her face, trying to wash away the confusion and guilt that swirled inside her. She stared at her reflection in the mirror, searching for some semnce of rity.

    e a mess."

    "You can''t let this happen," she whispered to herself. "You have to stay focused. You need to stay focused else everything will be a After a few more moments, she undressed and stepped into the shower, hoping the hot water would soothe her frazzled nerves.

    As she stood under the spray, she reyed the kiss in her mind, wondering how she had allowed herself to do that.

    When she finally emerged from the shower, she felt somewhat calmer, but the memory of the kiss still lingered at the edge of her thoughts.

    She dressed quickly and returned to the bedroom, determined to keep her distance from Derek for the rest of the night.

    She was a bit shocked when she stepped out and saw that he had pushed both the table and sofa closer to the bed and there were two wine sses and a bottle of champagne on the table. "What''s that for?" she asked with a frown, not liking the feeling she was having about it.

    Derek, still wearing his bathrobe, looked up at her with a mischievous smile. "I thought we could drink to ourst day here together and probably thest day I could get to seduce you" he said, holding up the bottle of champagne

    He had been pleased by her response to his kiss earlier and that had assured him even more that she wanted him as much as he wanted her but was holding back for reasons he intended to find out "I don''t think there anything worth drinking to or celebrating about our stay here," Evelyn said and Derek raised a brow,

    "Okay. If not for celebration, at least let''s have a drink together and perhaps get to know a little more about ourselves. I told you stuff about me yet I don''t know anything about you" Derek said, trying to convince her to have the drink with him.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    Evelyn hesitated, her mind racing. She knew Derek was trying to charm her, but she didn''t want to give him the satisfaction of knowing she was affected by the thoughts.

    "I really just want to get some sleep, Derek," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

    "Just one ss, Derek insisted, pouring the champagne into the sses. "I promise, no tricks and I won''t do what you don''t want

    She had a problem with the way he worded it. His promise to not do what she didn''t want was not something she could rely on since they both knew now that she couldn''t trust herself.

    Every fiber in her being was screaming for her to decline and just go to bed as nned but somehow she found herself taking the winess he offered.

    "Alright, just one ss," she said, sitting down on the bed since Derek was already sitting on the

    sofa.

    Evelyn took a small sip, the bubbles tickling her nose as she eyed him warily. She still couldn''t understand why he wanted her.

    "So, what has been bothering youtely?" Derek asked and she raised a brow,

    do you mean?

    "I noticed you seem unusually distractedtely. And you always have worry lines between your brows. Is there anything I can help with?" Derek asked, wanting to see if she would open up to him.

    Evelyn shook her head. "It''s personal. I don''t want to talk about it, Evelyn said and Derek looked at her with interest.

    "So, you do admit that something has been bothering you:"

    "We all have things bothering us. I''m sure you do too," she said taking another sip from her wine.

    "The only thing that bothers me is how to get you to open up to me," Derek said and s

    she rolled her eyes.

    "And was that the reason you brought me here?" she asked, deciding to confront him directly. "I know you lied about a property owner asking you toe in person," Evelyn said and Derek chuckled as he leaned back in his seat

    "I told you, Eve. Aside from the fact that I want to charm you into my bed and have you as my woman, I wanted you to get to know me better." he said easily.

    "And you think lying to me and tricking me intoing here with you is the best way to do that?" she challenged, raising an eyebrow and Derek chuckled

    "Yes, I think so. Tell me honestly, Eve, would you have gotten on the ne with me had I told you the truth?" Derek asked and she shook her head. "Obviously not

 Chapter 40

    Evelyn knew that by responding that way, she had in a way justified Derek''s reason for tricking her intoing on the trip with her.

    "You see? Why can''t you open your heart to mir, Eve? As much as I want to have sex with you because sex between us was great and it''s an experience I''ve been craving to have again, I really do care about you. Deeply even, Derek said, and butterflies fluttered in Evelyn''s belly.

    His words conjured the memories of their night together coupled with the picture of his bare body which she had been struggling to keep away. Not wanting him to see how much his words were affecting her, she took a sip and said, "That was a one-time thing, Derek. Nothing is going happen between us. Nothing can or should happen. I''m only here to do my job, and after that, I intend to disappear from your life" "Are you sure about that, Eve! Derek asked and Evelyn frowned.

    "Sure about what?"

    "Can you look into my

    eyes and tell me that you don''t wish to have me again? Derek asked as he set down his winess and rose.

    Evelyn watched him, her heartbeat increasing as he walked around the table to her and sat beside her.

    "Do you not wish to feel my hands on you? To have me pleasure you again?" He asked as he took her hand and raised it to his lips.

    Evelyn swallowed, unable to withdraw her hands or look away from his intense gaze which held her spellbound.

    Everything he was saying was true. She wanted him so badly and even now, the only thing in her head was to trace her fingers down his chest, connecting every muscle and having him pleasure her like he had done six years ago.

    "Deny it. Eve." Derek said as he kissed her palm and then her wrist where her pulse throbbed. "Tell me you don''t want me as much as I want you and I''ll stop," he said as he inched his face closer to hers. he dared her, his voice husky as he kissed up her arm.

    "Tell me you haven''t ever dreamt of this moment once in thest six years," he

    Evelyn opened her mouth to say ''No'' but as though her lips had their own volition, what she said was, "Yes, I want you, right now.

    "Then let me have you, Eve. Give yourself to me. Let me make love to you and touch you in ways no man has ever touched you or will ever touch you. I want another taste of all that passion you have buried deep, Derek said as he leaned closer to her.

    In her head, she knew that this was a bad idea and she should stop, but her body had a mind of its own and was determined to betray her. So, instead of pushing him away, she found herself closing the gap between them until both their lips connected.

    Abandoning logic,, she kissed Derek passionately as he devoured her lips with his, and his hands caressed her.

    His hands moved over her body with a deliberate tenderness, sending electric sparks coursing through her veins.

    She could feel his heart pounding against her own, and the intensity of his desire only fueled her own

    Their kisses grew more fervent, more urgent, as Derek''s hands found the hem of her dress and slowly inched it upward. Evelyn''s breath hitched when his fingers brushed against her bare skin, and she arched into his touch, wanting more.

    Derek''s lips trailed from her mouth to her neck, leaving a scorching path that made her tremble. She threaded her fingers through his hair, pulling him closer, losing herself in the heat of the moment.

    She would worry about everything else tomorrow. She would me this recklessness on the wine if she had to, but for now, just for tonight, she

    needed this.

    "I want you now, Derek," Evelyn cried when his fingers brushed her nipple, and desperate to have a feel of his body, she tore his robe off his body. Taking that as his cue, Derek u unleashed his desires on her, eager to make the night even more pleasurable than their first time together.

    The next morning, Evelyn woke up cradled in Derek''s arms. She could feel the warmth of his body and hear his heartbeat because her head was resting on his chest.

    For a brief moment, she allowed herself to savor the feeling of being held in his arms. It had been so long since she felt the arms of anyone wrapped around her this way, and she admitted to herself that it felt really nice.

    The nice feeling however didn''tst for long, as the reality of their situation quickly set in, stirring a lot of emotions within her.

    Shame, anxiety, and guilt. Shame for recklessly giving in to her desires and acting so wantonly despite all she had said about never falling for him.

    Anxiety because now Derek was not going to give up on his pursuit of her, and that might inevitably cause him to learn about Samantha

    Guilt because she knew how Derek felt about her, yet she was keeping vital secrets from him about her rtionship with his cousin and their

    11:28 AM

    daughter.

    What was she going to do now? Pretend like nothing happened? Perhaps she could get him to believe that she had only used him to satisfy her sexual desires and that was all it meant to her.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    She sighed inwardly, telling herself that she was probably overthinking the situation. She was just going to get up and act like sex with him wasn''t a big deal.

    Just as she started to lift his arm she she could free herself from his, Derek''s phone started ringing arousing Derek.

    Derek, who had been sound asleep jolted awake when he heard the ringtone that was only associated with his parents and immediately he reached for the phone and received the call, while Evelyn took the opportunity to excuse herself from him and headed for the bathroom

    A couple of minutester, Evelyn stepped out of the bathroom, ready to face Derek with the mischievous glint in his eyes and the smug smile she knew would be on his face having seeded in his mission, but the look on his face stopped her dead in her tracks when she saw the anger on his face as he looked at her.

    "How could you?" he asked, his voice low and icy as he stared at her with a pair of cold piercing blue eyes that seemed to freeze her soul.

 Chapter 41

    Seeing the anger burning in his eyes, Evelyn froze. This wasn''t what she had expected. In fact, it was far from what she had been expecting after everything they had donest night.

    What was wrong? Was it the phone call! Did he find out already about her rtionship with Michael? Or was it about Samantha!

    She shook her head inwardly. It couldn''t be about Samantha since even her mom who knew about Samantha didn''t know that Derek was Samantha''s father.

    So, what was he talking about? And why did he look so angry? It had to be about her and Michael, she thought as she took a deep breath.

    "I''m sorry. I would have told you about it but I was scared if I did you wouldn''t.."

    "I wouldn''t what?" He snapped, angrier at the admittance of her action.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.

    "I bared my heart to you. I told you it had to be off records and between us. Why would you ever divulge such information to the public?" He asked bitterly

    This time Evelyn looked at him, her brows drawn together in a confused frown. "Divulge what information? What are you talking about?" she asked, her heart pounding as she took in his cold demeanor. "Don''t y dumb with me, Evelyn! It''s toote for that when you already admitted to it," he growled and her frown deepened.

    "Admitted to what? What''s going on? You are confusing me." Evelyn said and Derek shed his phone''s screen in her face even though they were standing on the opposite side of the bed.

    Evelyn dimmed her eyes so she could see what was on the screen. Her heart skipped a beat when her eyes caught the caption.

    [WHO IS DEREK STONE IS HE DEAD OR ALIVED

    "What is the news of my adoption doing all over the inte You promised to keep it to yourself. How could you betray my trust in this manner?" Derek asked, his voice filled with hurt and anger. Evelyn shook her head in denial when she saw the pain in his eyes, "I didn''t. I didn''t tell anyone about your adoption... The rest of her words trailed off when Derek closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "I don''t know if I''m more disappointed by your action or the lies you''re telling now. You are the only one I have ever confided in about that....

    ¡°That doesn''t mean I''m the only one who knows about it. Evelyn cut in and Derek looked at her incredulously.

    "You are the only person apart from my parents who knows how I feel about it, and it is all written in here! How could you even think of using my family of revealing something like that to the public?" Derek asked, his anger rising to its peak.

    He had never imagined that she would do something like this or try to me his family for what she had done.

    "I swear to you, I didn''t. I promised to keep it myself and I did just that.....

    "If not you, then who! My adoption has been a secret kept within the family all these years yet just a couple of days after I reveal it to you, it bes national news. How convenient is that?" he asked, his voiceced with hurt and anger.

    Evelyn shook her head as she walked around the bed to meet him, her eyes glistening with tears. She had never seen him that hurt or angry and it pained her to see him that way because he thought she had betrayed his trust.

    Who could have done this? She asked herself as she stopped in front of him.

    "Believe me, Derek. I didn''t tell anyone about it. I''ve never spoken to a single soul about your adoption, I swear it, she said but Derek turned away from her.

    "If so, why is Empowered magazine the source of the news?" he asked and Evelyn''s heart skipped a bear, confusion clouding her mind. "Empowered Magazine?" She repeated, and Derek watched as she reached for her phone and scrolled through it.

    She could understand why he was upset. Not only was the news telling everyone about his adoption, but it was also hinting at his adoptive parents"

    selfishness.

    How could Empowered have gotten hold of that information if not through her? And why didn''t they inform her or call to confirm the information from her before releasing the news?

    2:51 PM

    She frowned when she saw that the news had been released that morning. "This was released this morning," she said as though that should mean something and Derek raised a brow, "How could I have released this if we were here together?" she asked and he shook his head.

    "I''m supposed to be your alibi! Seriously? I''m not stupid, Evelyn. We both know you don''t have to do it yourself. Any of your subordinates could have done it with your instructions. And even if you didn''t give the instructions, there''s no way they could have released this news if you didn''t tell them about it in the first ce, Derek said and Evelyn ran her fingers through her hair in frustration.

    He had said apart from her the only people who knew about his adoption were his family, and if they had been quiet about it the whole time, why was it made public knowledge the moment she knew about it? "I understand why you think it''s me. But, I''m telling you I didn''t post such news and neither did I give permission or tell anyone about it."

    "Okay. Since you didn''t tell anyone, can you tell me who did? Perhaps you think I did, Derek cut in, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

    Even though she could understand why he thought she was behind it, she couldn''t help feeling angry at him for not listening to her or giving her the benefit of the doubt.

    "Don''t you think instead of assuming I''m behind this, you should listen to me, and let''s solve the puzzle of how this whole thing got out?" she asked with a frown. "How can I listen to you

    ou when you admitted."

    "That wasn''t what I was admitting to. That was something else," she cut him off before he could

    "I guess this isn''t the only thing you''ve done," he said, his tone tinged with disbelief.

    "What is it, Evelyn What else have you done that I should know about?" he asked wearily. finish.

 Chapter 42

    Derek rubbed the bridge of his nose unable to believe all that was happening. What bothered him most was his parents and how they must be feeling. He couldn''t imagine how he was going to face them.

    All his adult life he had done his best to not give them any reason to be disappointed in him, and now just because of onepse in judgment he had hurt them so much. He couldn''t begin to imagine how they were feeling.

    "That''s not important right now," Evelyn said with a frown as she tried to think.

    There were three main questions begging to be answered and they were the Who, how, and why,

    Who could have released the news? How did the person get to know about those details? And most importantly why was it released!

    She could still remember that they had talked about it in his office. Could that mean that someone had overheard them! She mused. That had to be

    "You don''t get to tell me what''s important..."

    "I think someone might have overheard us while we were talking about it." Evelyn voiced out before Derek could finish

    Derek scoffed "That''s not possible. It doesn''t even make sense, so I suggest you save your excuses. If you were going to reveal such private details in the first ce. you shouldn''t have imed you were asking for yourself. I trusted you, and you made me regret it. Derek said in a resigned tone

    Evelyn felt her heartbreak. She wanted to exin, to make him understand that she would never betray him like that but she could see that no matter what she said, he wasn''t going to listen.

    As much as she could understand that his feeling was hurt by the article posted about him and his family, she couldn''t excuse his reaction

    He was behaving the same way her father had behaved six years ago. Like her father, he was not giving her the benefit of the doubt. She needed to get away from here.

    What was the point of studying him and working so closely with him if he didn''t trust her: She knew he was likely going to call off the interview after something like this happened anyway.

    Im sorry about the news and even though I know you won''t believe a word I say. I really didn''t release that news or tell anyone to do it. I never would. And maybe if you trusted me as much as you made me believe you did, you would know that," she said, her voice firm.

    Seeing as Derek remained silent, she nodded. "I think we should leave now."

    Derek nodded. We should. Pack your things. We''re leaving." he said and without wasting any more time headed for the bathroom to freshen up.

    He had hoped that afterst night maybe they could find a way to build what they seemed to have, but now, it was obvious there was nothing there and it had all been a figment of his imagination.

    Neither of them said a word as they left the Resort and all through their flight back home, the only thing that was on Evelyn''s mind was how Derek''s adoption news got out

    No matter how hard she thought about it, she just couldn''t figure out how the news could have gotten out or how it happened to be released by Empowered, making her the only suspect. Was it a setup!

    Who could be behind it? Michael''

    Was that why he had pretended to be friendly with her? But even if it was Michael, how had he managed to guess Derek had told her about the adoption

    She tried thinking about the events of that day, what had happened before and after Derek told her about it but there was nothing out of the ordinary apart from Sandra''s visit.

    But then, Sandra had visited before she had the talk with Derek, so what exactly happened?

    Evelyn''s mind was upied with these thoughts throughout the flight and when they arrived Derek offered to drop her off but she politely turned down has offer and took a cab instead since she couldn''t stand being in his presence any longer

    Evelyn sighed when she remembered how quiet and uhdrawn Derek had been. She rested her head on the headrest and shut ber

    2:52 PM d

    Somehow in thest couple of days since she started working closely with him, she had begun to think of him as a friend, and as a result, his reaction hurt her deeply.

    Why did he bother telling her about his secret if his trust in her was so little! She mused sadly.

    She had to find out who had released the news and clear her name. She needed to prove to him that he had misjudged her. Not because she wanted anything to do with him, but because she really hated the injustice of the entire situation.

    As she walked into her apartment a short whileter, her lips curved in an involuntary smile when Samantha ran to her for an embrace.

    "Mommy!" Samantha screamed as she threw herself at her mother.

    Evelyn knelt to hug her daughter, feeling a wave of relief wash over her. Even though they had only been apart for two days, it was the first time they had been separated for such a duration.

    "Hey, sweetheart." Evelyn said softly, holding Samantha tightly as she pushed every other thought aside.

    "I missed you so much. Evelyn said as she buried her face in Samantha''s hair.

    Samantha pulled back to look at her mother, her blue eyes wide with excitement. "Did you bring me something, Mommy?" she asked and Evelyn chuckled, the tension easing a bit from her shoulders. Her daughter indeed was a source offort to her.

    "Do

    you want something or do you want your Mommy?" Evelyn asked dryly.

    "I want

    my mommy." Samantha said with a wide smile as she grabbed her mother''s hand and led her into the living room while chattering excitedly about her weekend thus far.

    Evelyn listened, nodding and smiling, as she kept trying to focus on her daughter''s cheerful chatter and stop her mind from drifting back to Derek. She had to figure out what had happened, and fast. Samantha plopped down on the couch, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Are you back from the party?"

    "Not yet, darling. I have to get ready first and leave from here," she said and Samantha''s face fell slightly, her curiosity quickly turning into a pout.

    "You''re leaving again?" She asked and Evelyn nodded.

    "Can Ie with you! Pretty please?" she pleaded with a pout and Evelyn sighed, shaking her head gently.

    "No, darling, you can''te this time," she said and Samantha frowned.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    "Why not?" Samantha asked, her pout deepening and Evelyn took her hand.

    "Because I have to go alone for now," Evelyn exined, brushing a a strand of hair away from Samantha''s face. "But soon, I promise I''ll start taking you everywhere with me. Okay?" Samantha''s expression softened a bit, though she still looked disappointed. "Okay, Mommy," she said and Evelyn hugged her daughter tightly.

    "I promise. Now, why don''t you continue telling me what you''ve been up to while I was gone while I get ready for the party!" Evelyn said, an attempt to distract herself and Samantha''s eyes lit up again.

    Evelyn wished she had not made promises to her stepmom regarding the anniversary party. She would have preferred to stay indoors now after the whole Derek episode, but unfortunately she couldn''t.

 Chapter 43

    Instead of going to the hotel. Derek asked his driver to take him home to meet his parents so he could apologize to them properly. He had wronged them greatly.

    As he sat in the car looking out the window, he couldn''t shake off the hurt and disappointment in his mother''s voice that lingered in his head.

    Not once had he given his parents any reason to be sad or disappointed in him since he joined the family, yet here he was now, simply because he had been too trusting.

    He nced at his phone started when it started ringing and sighed when he saw that it was Michael calling again. He had been calling all morning and Derek knew it was regarding the news.

    Derek reluctantly tapped on the receiver but didn''t say anything as he waited to hear Michael''s voice.

    "Rek? What''s wrong! You''ve not been taking my calls all morning. Are you okay? I saw the news," Michael said, his concern evident in his voice just as Derek had expected.

    He sighed. "I''m more worried about my parents than myself right now," Derek said with a weary sigh.

    "I was with them earlier. They are very upset. Although they have ordered Empowered to take down the news, they''re still worried that everyone has seen it, Michael said, sounding concerned and Derek closed his eyes, feeling even more mad at himself.

    "Where are you? Are you back already?" Michael asked, wanting to know if Derek was back and if there was a way he could still get Derek to the anniversary party.

    "I''m in Ludus now. I''m on my way home. I need to see my parents and apologize to them, Derek said and Michael nodded, d that he was back

    "Alright I will meet you there. Try not to worry too much. Things like this happen at times. And I''m sure they will understand and forgive you seeing as you''ve always been a good son to them, Michael said even though he inwardly hoped this would cause a major problem between Derek and his parents.

    Over the years he had grown tired of hearing about how perfect Derek was and now he was happy that he had gotten the chance to deal with both Evelyn and Derek at once.

    Earlier he had told Derek''s parents how he had warned Derek not to do the interview with the girl from Empowered and how Derek had almost fought with him over it. And he had made sure to innocently'' mention that Derek had even gone on a business trip with her.

    "I hope so. Thanks," Derek said before hanging up.

    As he looked out of the window again, his mind swirled with thoughts of his meeting with his parents. He had no idea what he was going to say or how he was going to exin the situation andfort them. And he wasn''t sure how they were going to react since something like this had never happened before. He hoped that they would forgive him and not take whatever Empowered had released to heart.

    As the driver drove up the long driveway to his parents'' house, Derek felt a knot of anxiety form in his stomach

    Derek took a deep breath after the driver parked the car but that did nothing to calm the churning as he got out of the car.

    As he walked up to the front door, he noticed that Michael had already arrived there and he sighed. He hoped that with Michael there, his parents wouldn''t be too mad at him.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    When he got in, he found his parents in the living room, his mother''s face was red like she had been crying for long and his father''s face was stern Michael on the other hand sat off to the side, a well- concealed smug look on his face when he saw how anxious Derek looked

    The moment his mother saw him, tears filled her eyes again as she rose, "How could you? How could you do this to us?" She asked, her voice trembling with emotion as she struggled to hold herself together. Ever since she saw the news, thoughts about her dead son had flooded her mind and the pain of losing him all those years ago came back in full

    force..

    "I thought we w

    we were over this a long time ago. Why? Why would you tell someone about it instead ofing to us if you his mother asked, tears rolling down her cheeks.

    u were still feeling that way?"

    Without thinking Derek went on his knees, "Tim so sorry, Mon. I have no excuse for any of this. It''s all my fault. I''m sorry about all that was written there. I never meant for this to happen or for what I said to be taken so out of context, Derek apologized but his father shook his head.

    "Have we not shown you enough love! Have I ever made you feel like a recement? Do you not trust us enough? Have I not treated you like a real son? Or have we in any way treated you badly? Is that why you did this?" He asked and Derek shook his head.

    "I''m sorry." Derek pleaded, shunting his eyes so he wouldn''t see the disappointment and pain reflected in their eyes.

    Michael watched the scene before him, happy with what was happening while keeping a straight face as though he was feeling very bad about everything.

    "Don''t just apologize, Derek. Tell us how you''re feeling. Are we bad parents! Do you feel we are using you?" She asked, crying now as she went to kneel in front of him.

    "No, Mom, it''s not that at all," Derek said quickly. "You''ve shown me more love than I could ever ask for and I''m so sorry I made you feel otherwise It''s all my fault. I''m sorry," he said, looking at both his parents

    "No, it''s not your fault. You should me the person responsible. Why are you covering for her! It''s Evelyn, isn''t it?" Michael asked, and before Derek could shoot him a look to shut his mouth if he wasn''t going to be helpful, his father spoke again.

    "Stop crying, darling. You both should sit down. Derek, I want to hear about this Evelyn," his father said and his mother brushed away her tears as she rose and she held out her hand to him to stand up. "Who is Evelyn?" His mother asked after they were both seated.

 Chapter 44

    As upset as Derek was over Evelyn''s breach of trust, he had no desire to expose her to his parents this way.

    He knew his parents well enough to know they wouldn''t her it slide or let her go if he told them exactly what had happened. They would tear her apart and he couldn''t let that happen.

    Dad..

    "Are you going to deny that you didn''t tell her about this, and it''s a coincidence that Empowered happened to find out about this and release the news?" Michael asked before Derek could defend Evelyn. "All these years you refused to appear in front of cameras or grant interviews. Why did you suddenly change your mind? What does this person have on you?" His mother asked with a concerned frown. Derek shook his head, looking down at the floor. "I don''t know what I was thinking." Derek said, wondering why he would ever have assumed that Evelyn was the right woman for him simply because they spent a night together six years ago.

    "What I want to know is why you told her about it in the first ce. It was supposed to be a family matter, his father said and Derek drew a deep

    breath.

    Seeing how Derek was trying to protect Evelyn from his parents, Michael became even more determined to fuel the fire, "Uncle, Derek trusted her. I knew she was trouble and I tried to warn him, but you know how trusting Derek can be.."

    "And you

    traveled with this girl?" His mother asked, remembering that Michael had mentioned it earlier.

    Derek looked at his Mom in s

    surprise and then turned to Michael knowing that only he could have told his parents

    that.

    "You shouldn''t cover for her, Derek. Uncle and Aunt need to know the truth. They need to know that she released such confidential information that you expected her to keep to herself," Michael said, and Derek frowned.

    "How did you know that?" Derek asked, and Michael''s heart skipped a beat when he realized he had slipped.

    "Isn''t it obvious? I''m sure you would never have asked her to publish something like this," Michael said and Derek sighed.

    "So, she released news you told her in confidence?" His mother asked, and Derek had no choice but to admit it.

    "I wanted her to get to know me and understand why I always turned down interviews. I didn''t expect that things would turn out this way, I''m sorry, Derek said, and his mother sighed.

    Michael leaned forward. "It''s not your fault, Rek. You only trusted the wrong person. I''m sure you wouldn''t have told her if you knew she had such bad intentions," he said and Derek''s parents exchanged a nce, then turned back to Derek

    Derek sighed. "I''m truly sorry about all this mess, Derek repeated, his voice sincere.

    "You need to cancel whatever arrangement you have with Evelyn or whatever you call her. Cancel it and stay away from her. People like her can never be trusted, his father said firmly.

    His mother nodded in agreement. "You should cut her off. I''m sure if you had chosen to interview with the People''s Times magazines, this would never have happened, his mother said since Michael had mentioned Sandra''s desire to interview Derek because she was interested in him.

    "If you want to do the interview so badly, then do it with the People''s Times. They''re a reputable magazine and the Quinns are friends of the family," his mother said and Michael nodded in agreement but said nothing.

    "You''re not interested in this Evelyn girl, are you? Is that the reason you agreed to do the interview with her?" His mother asked when he didn''t respond to what they said about cutting her off

    She had suspected that he was interested in Evelyn from the moment Michael mentioned that he had traveled with Evelyn n on a business trip.

    "Even if he was, I''m sure he has learned his lesson now. And while we are still on the subject. I think it''s high time you settle down," his father said, and his mother nodded in agreement.

    "Yes. About that, I''m going to arrange for a date between you and Sandra Quinn. We have heard she is a good girl," his mother said and although Derek felt a surge of frustration about the way the whole issue was going, he remained outwardly calm.

    He knew arguing about it was only going to make things worse and he didn''t want that. All he wanted was to appease his parents and calm them

    down.

    *1 will think about it," he said and both his parents nodded.

    2:55 PM

    "Good," his mother said and Derek, sighed inwardly.

    "I''m sorry I made you

    cry and disappointed..."

    "Don''t say that Everyone makes their fair share of mistakes, and you made yours by trusting that ssless girl. Now that we understand the situation we will deal with it. Don''t worry about anything else," his mother said, taking his hands in her own and squeezing it.

    Although Michael didn''t like that Derek''s parents forgave him so easily, he was happy that they had brought up the issue of Derek being in a rtionship with Sandra.

    k nodded.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    sure you must be tired after your trip. Let''s talk

    I''s talk again another time," his father said and Derek

    "You should go

    to get some rest. I''m sure you

    After thanking them, he and Michael stepped outside. "I''m d Uncle and Aunt understand now. And I''m not sorry I told them everything. I just didn''t want them to be so hard on you. Covering up for her would have made things worse for you and them, you know?" Michael said before. Derek could scold him for telling his parents about Evelyn.

    Derek sighed but said nothing. He wasn''t pleased with the way Michael had behaved, but he wasn''t in the mood to talk about it.

    Now that things have happened this way. I think you should listen to your parents and stay away from her. If you still want to pursue the interview, you should do it with the People''s Times, Michael suggested but once again Derek said nothing.

    Something was nagging at the back of his mind but he couldn''t ce it. All he knew was that something was bothering him. Something he seemed to be overlooking

    Seeing how Derek wasn''t responding, Michael switched the subject, "I should get going now. It''s almost time for the anniversary party. I will exin the situation to everyone. I''m sure that even though they are all disappointed, they will understand that you''re not in the mood to be seen in public after the news," Michael said sadly.

    "I gave my word. I will be there," Derek said, and Michael shook his head,

    No. Derek. You don''t have to.

    "You know how much I hate to go back on my word, don''t you? You can go ahead of me. I will go back to the hotel to freshen up and meet you there, Derek said and Michael shook his head.

    go with you to the hotel then, and keep you e

    us to go together," Michael said and Derek shrugged

    "Alright then, let''s go."

 Chapter 45

    As Evelyn arrived at her father''s house, she stood outside for a while, nostalgia enveloping her. It had been six years since she had left this house, and now, standing there, a wave of emotion washed over her

    Memories of her time living there, the happy

    uppy moments with her father and stepmother, surged through her mind. However, Sandra''s presence in

    those memories dampened the warmth.

    That sly bitch! She cursed inwardly, knowing she was going to see her there.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    Taking a deep breath, Evelyn reminded herself to stay as far away from Sandra as possible. She couldn''t afford to lose her cool, especially since she was already in a bad mood.

    She stepped inside the living room, the familiar scent of home greeting her instantly. Even with the decorations hanging around the house, she could still see that the house hadn''t changed much, and a pang of sadness mixed withfort filled her.

    She could hear the musicing from the backyard where guests who had arrived for the anniversary party were already flocking around.

    She took a deep breath as she made her way to the backyard, and the moment she got there, the first person her eyesnded on was

    Sandra.

    Thankfully, Sandra was engrossed in a conversation with someone so she averted her gaze quickly only for her eyes to meet her father who seemed to have seen her the moment she walked in.

    They both locked gazes, but neither of them made any move to approach the other since they were still mad at each other and waiting for who to apologize first. ire who had been talking to her husband but noticed he was no longer listening to her, followed his gaze and her face split in a smile when she saw Evelyn. "She made it," ire said happily and Eric scoffed.

    "As what? A guest? She doesn''t even have regard for her parents enough toe say hello," Eric muttered with displeasure as he looked away from Evelyn. Without a second thought, ire ignored her husband and walked over to Evelyn to wee her. I''m d you made it!" ire said as she hugged Evelyn "Isn''t that your sister?" Sandra''spanion asked, and she turned in time to see her mom and Evelyn embracing.

    Sandra''s brows pulled together when she observed how they both seemed happy to see each other, unlike the way Evelyn had treated her so coldly. "Happy Anniversary, Mom," Evelyn said as she hugged ire back, a genuine smile ying on her lips.

    "Thank you, darling. Why haven''t youe to say hello to your father? And what is that about Derek Stone? Did you release that news?" ire asked with a frown. While they were still talking. Sandra observed them with a frown. Something about their bodynguage gave her a feeling that this wasn''t a six-year-long reunion.

    Was there something she was missing! Had Evelyn seen her mom since she came back? But if so, how? And why didn''t her mother mention it? Sandra mused as she decided to go join them, but when she saw them heading towards her father, she headed there instead.

    She got there in time to hear Evelyn congratting their father. "Hello, Dad. Congrattions on your anniversary

    "Am I still your father? I don''t think so considering your actions. As far as I''m concerned, you''re here as a guest, so I will treat you as one. When you recognize me as your father and do the right thing, I will acknowledge you then," he said and without waiting for her response, he turned away from her and walked away.

    was happy to hear d

    hear she was attending the party frowned. "I will go talk to him" ire said and

    Seeing this, ire who had told Evelyn her father was h hurried after her husband.

    Sandra turned to Evelyn after their parents left and smiled at her. "Hey, Evie. I''m so d you made it. I was scared you wouldn''t show up" she said, trying to Lake Evelyn''s hand.

    Evelyn palled her hand away. She hated the fact that Sandra could still pretend to be a good sister to her after betraying her the way she did. "Why won''t I show up? It''s my parents'' anniversary after all," she said, smiling back at Sandra

    Sandra modded, her gaze darting to the entrance to see if Michael and Derek had arrived. Earlier, Michael had texted to let her know he would be

 Chapter 46

    After everything that had happened with Derek earlier that day, Evelyn was mentally exhausted and wasn''t in the mood for any more drama. Thest thing she wanted was to waste her time trying to figure out what Sandra was thinking or plotting

    int me to know where you live! Why? It''s me, Sandy. Your best friend. What''s wrong, Evie?" Sandra asked with a hurt expression on her

    "You don''t want

    face.

    "You''re not my best friend, Sandra. Maybe you were when I didn''t know better, but you''re nothing to me now. You mean nothing to me, so please leave me alone, and cut the act.""" Evelyn said, not bothering to hold back anymore.

    Sandra blinked in surprise, "Evie, Did I do something wrong?" She asked as a tear dropped from her eyes.

    Evelyn sighed in exasperation, "Save your tears, will you? You''re really getting on my nerves with this whole performance you have going on. Why not be an actress! Your performance is top notch and I''m sure you''ll win multiple awards," Evelyn said, and Sandra frowned, wondering why Evelyn was talking to her in that manner.

    "What do you mean, Evie? How can you refer to my desire to reconnect and bond with you as a performance!" Sandra asked and Evelyn broke into a humorlessugh

    "I must have been so naive and gullible to not have seen through you," Evelyn said with a self-deprecating smile and then shook her head.

    "You''re

    ''re confusing me,

    Evie...

    "Please stop. Sandra, please, just stop, okay? I''m not the gullible fool I once was. So, stop wasting both my time and yours." Evelyn said, and hearing that, Sandra narrowed her eyes.

    "Gullible fool? What do you mean by that?" Sandra asked and just then, the spotted Derek and Michaeling since she was facing the door, while Evelyn had her back to the door.

    "What do I mean! Why don''t you tell me something, Sandrat Tell me why you''re not married to Michael yet. Why are you interested in Derek when you have Michael!" Evelyn asked, and Sandra blinked, taken aback by what Evelyn said.

    If Evelyn was asking her that then it only meant one thing: Evelyn knew of her affair with Michael

    How did Evelyn find out about it! When she did find out? All these years, she and Michael had done their best to be careful, so how did she find out? Was that why she called off the wedding and left! Sandra mused.

    Evelyn smirked when she saw the flicker of surprise on Sandra''s face and in that moment, she couldn''t help the smug feeling she felt watching as Sandra slowly realized that she had been making a fool of herself the whole time.

    "Don''t look so surprised, Sandra. Did you think I''d never find out about the both of you?" Evelyn asked with a smirk.

    Wanting to know how much Evelyn knew, Sandra shook her head. "I didn''t know my feelings for him were so obvious, Evie. I''m so sorry. I promise I never told him how I feel. ''

    Evelyn sighed and shook her head, "Perhaps you shouldn''t be an actress. You''re too dumb and stupid to be one if you can''t even tell when your audience is no longer enjoying your performance. I''m so disappointed."

    Sandra scowled. "What exactly do you know, Evie!" Sandra asked,ing out straight.

    "What or rather, how much do you think I know?" Evelyn asked with a wry smile.

    Tired of the games, and seeing that Evelyn knew about her and Michael, Sandra decided that there was no need for her to keep pretending in front of her. It was tiring for her since she hated Evelyn with every fiber of her being

    "How long have you known?" she asked as she nced behind Evelyn, in Michael''s direction, to see that he was still busy introducing Derek to some of the guests

    "What does it matter how long?" Evelyn asked with a perfectly arched brow.

    "Is that why you called off the wedding and left!" Sandra asked and Evelyn shrugged.

    "I''m sure you never wanted me to return. You must have thought I''d disappear forever and you can have all that is

    is mine." Evelyn said with a smirk.

    "If you know that, why did you return? You should go back to the hole you crawled out from," Sandra hissed, annoyed that she had been making a fool of herself this whole time when Evelyn knew everything. Evelyn, who had been waiting for Sandra to reveal her true color, smiled, "Finally, you''ve dropped the act. I was beginning to worry that you''veCopyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    §±

    pretended for so long that you no longer know how to be real, Evelyn said, with a shake of her head and then tsked.

    "Why did you pretend you knew nothing? Was it fun to watch me make a fool of myself?" Sandra asked irritably.

    "I should be asking you that since it was you and Michael who made a fool of me. But unfortunately, I don''t have the time to do this with you. Now that we don''t have to pretend to like each other anymore, stay away from me, Evelyn said, wanting to walk past her.

    Seeing as Michael and Derek were approaching them now, Sandra immediately fell to the ground with her ss of wine which shattered beside her. "Why are you doing this, Evie?" Sandra cried out loud to get the attention of everyone and the ce became silent as all eyes turned to the sisters.

    Evelyn stared at Sandra in shock, taken aback by the show she was putting on and feeling embarrassed when she felt all the eyes on her.

    "What did I do to deserve such hatred from you? I''ve been nothing but a good sister to you. Why are you being mean to me simply because I remained friends with Michael!" Sandra asked before breaking into a sob.

    Derek, who had seen Evelyn and had been wondering what she was doing there, suddenly made the connection after he heard Sandra''s statement about being a good sister.

    And then his heart skipped a beat when something else suddenly hit him.

    Evelyn Quinn.

    If she was Sandra''s sister, and her name was Evelyn, that meant she was Michael''s Evelyn.

 Chapter 47

    Derek had thought that Evelyn''s name sounded familiar when he first heard it and now, he knew exactly why.

    Why didn''t she tell him about her rtionship with Michael? Was that why she had tried staying away from him?

    Why didn''t he think of that when Michael first asked him about his business with Evelyn? Why didn''t he think of it when he saw the way they had greeted each other so coldly in his office! he mused as he turned to nce at Michael

    Michael sensing his piercing blue eyes on him, shed him an apologetic look but Derek merely gave him a look that said they would talk about it

    Meanwhile, Evelyn quickly recovered from her shock at Sandra''s theatrics, and realizing what Sandra was doing, she smiled.

    It was obvious that Sandra was putting up the act because she wanted to make her look bad in front of everyone. She could already hear some of the guests whispering about her. ff on the morning of her wedding.

    She could hear them asking questions about her and discussing how she ran off on

    Knowing the purpose of Sandra''s drama and understanding that nothing she was going to say in her defense would make any difference now, Evelyn decided to y along with Sandra.

    "I''m being mean to you, right? Then I guess this shouldn''t be a problem," Evelyn said as she emptied the content of her ss on Sandra and pped her, causing everyone to gasp in shock. Derek frowned as he watched the scene before him. What was going on and why was Evelyn doing that? Although he didn''t know her much, he knew she wasn''t such a bad person or maybe she was considering how she couldn''t keep his personal matter to herself, Derek mused as he watched Evelyn''s father storm over to where Evelyn and Sandra were standing and push Evelyn away roughly. "What the hell is wrong with you, Evelyn Why do you keep embarrassing me and bringing shame to this family?" Eric growled and Evelyn shook her head, not surprised by her father''s reaction. "What is going on Evie? Why is Sandra on the floor and why did you pour your wine on her? ire asked while Sandra who had been pretending to be crying stood up with Eric''s help

    "I was only asking her why she was being cold to me and wouldn''te back home but then she said I was asking because I was jealous and feeling. threatened by presence. I tried to exin to her but she just pushed me angrily saying she would never forgive me for remaining friends with Michael, Sandra said, crying

    Eric shook his head at Evelyn while Derek''s mind swirled with several thoughts about what was happening.

    "You are nothing but a disappointment. You brought shame to us six years ago and now, after your return, you''re still doing the same thing! Apologize to your sister right now or get out of here right now!" Eric yelled at her.

    "Eric, calm down," ire pleaded, looking at Evelyn with concern. She couldn''t understand what the problem was, but she knew Evelyn well enough to know she wasn''t the type to be troublesome or confrontational

    "I won''t apologize. I didn''t do anything wrong." Evelyn said as her hands balled into a fist at her side, and she blinked back the tears that gathered in her eyes, determined not to cry. Especially not in front of Sandra,

    "Did you hear her? Did you hear what she just said? I never wanted her here. I told you so. Now see what she did to her sister who invited her! Eric yelled angrily at his wife.

    Derek watched with a frown, wondering why her father was yelling and speaking so harshly to her in front of everyone. Unable to stand the scene anymore, he decided to save her from the embarrassment even though he was still mad at her.

    *1 want you out of here right now. Get out or I will have you thrown out," Eric yelled, and before Evelyn could say anything. Derek stepped forward and grabbed her hand.

    Although blinded by tears and she couldn''t see the face of the person holding her, she knew the smell of Derek''s cologne and the feel of his hand,

    She tried to pull away but Derek dragged her out of the house with him while Michael and Sandra exchanged nces when they saw this, both wondering what Derek was doing

    "And make sure you don''t evere back until you return to your senses," her father called after her.

    Evelyn, who had been taken aback when Derek took her hand, jerked her hand free the moment they got outside.

    For someone who didn''t like public functions, he was thest person she had expected to see at the party especially considering the fact that

    305 PM

    something so sensitive had been released about him just hours earlier.

    "What do you want!" Evelyn asked hotly, fighting back her tears as the whole events of the day finally caught up with her.

    "What do you mean what do I want? I couldn''t stand watching you being treated that way by your family. What were you doing in there? Why did you do that? And why didn''t you tell me you were Michael''s. Derek let the rest of his words trail off, unable to bring himself to refer to her as

    Michael''s ex

    "What does it mean to you if I am embarrassed by my family?" Evelyn asked as tears of anger and frustration fell from her eyes and she brushed them off angrilyN?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    Seeing her this way, Derek remembered the first time he met her and how broken she had seemed then. He momentarily forgot all about their misunderstanding and stepped closer to her, wanting tofort her and understand her.

    "Eve."

    Evelyn stepped away before he could touch her. "Don''t! Keep your distance from me. I want you to maintain the same energy you gave me this morning. Ignore me as you did earlier and stay away from me, Evelyn said and Derek''s hands dropped to his side.

    "Why are you being unreasonable when I''m only trying to help? Come with me. I will take you home."

    "I don''t need your help. Derek!" She snapped angrily.

    "You do realize that I should be the one who is mad between us, not you, right?" Derck pointed out

    "Yes, you are right. You should be mad, not me. So, let''smunicate through ourwyers."

    "Lawyers? What for?" Derek cut in with a confused frown.

    of

    "I guess you haven''t thought about the agreement we signed. I signed a nondisclosure agreement when you asked me to be objective in my review you, didn''t I? Isn''t that the reason I''ve been at your beck and call? If you decide to take legal action against me, yourwyers can give me a call," Evelyn said and without waiting for his response, she walked away, leaving Derek staring after her with a confused frown.

 Chapter 48

    A confused frown creased Derek''s brows as he watched Evelyn leave, Wasn''t she supposed to be feeling guilty both for exposing his secret and for concealing her and Michael''s rtionship from him?

    Why was she making it seem as though he was the one at fault? And why was she still insisting she didn''t discuss his personal matter with anyone! Was she really not the one!

    Hemused and then narrowed his eyes. Thinking about what she had said about him getting hiswyer involved, he admitted to himself that unlike him. Evelyn had treated their arrangement with utmost professionalism, and judging from how professional she had been, it didn''t make sense that she would have made public something he told her in confidence no matter how juicy the news seemed. Certainly not when she had signed an NDA with him.

    Now that he thought about it, he remembered how empathetic she had been when he told her about it and how she had treated him better after that day.

    Even if everything pointed at her, he just couldn''t believe that she was behind it. Perhaps she was really innocent and he had used her wrongly.

    if Evelyn was innocent, who then could have revealed the news about him? And how did the person find out about it! Derek mused.

    Was he missing something? What was it? He mused and then turned when he noticed he was no longer alone.

    An involuntary scowl appeared on his face when he turned and saw that it was Michael who had joined him.

    "You lied to me," he growled, feeling annoyed that Michael had deliberately kept the truth from him.

    "I didn''t lie," Michael said defensively, "I told you I knew her. I just didn''t tell you the whole truth-Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    "What difference does it make? How could you hide something as important as this? Can you give me any good reason why you hid the truth this whole time?" Derek snapped at him, cutting him off. "That was my personal rtionship with her and you both were only working professionally. I didn''t think I should get in the way-

    "Get in the way? If you had told me, I wouldn''t have-

    "You wouldn''t have what? Agreed to the interview? Michael asked, cutting him off "Didn''t I try to stop you?" What did you tell me then? Michael asked, equally infuriated,

    Derekbed his hand through his hair in annoyance, "Couldn''t you have just exined and told me she is your ext" Derek asked and Michael snorted

    difference would it have made? She didn''t tell you about me either, did she? Even now after Ending out what a spiteful bitch she is

    "Don''t call her that Derek cut him off with a growl.

    "See? You are still taking her side even now. Why, Derek! Why are you taking her side? Shouldn''t you hate her as much as I do after finding out how she exposed your secret and how she hurt me? Why are you still taking her side even after your parents asked you to stay away from her?" Michael asked wondering what was wrong with Derek and why he was being defensive of Evelyn when he was supposed to be mad at her.

    "What I do or who I associate with is none of your business, at least not anymore. Not after you kept your rtionship with her from me." Derek Paid coldly

    "I didn''t know how to

    "Save it. I don''t want to hear it. I don''t want to hear whatever excuses you have to make," Derek said and without another word, he walked away to his car, leaving Michael to scowl at his back. Why was Derek making things difficult by being stupid? This wasn''t the n. Derek was supposed to direct all his anger at Evelyn, not him. Michael mused angrily as he watched Derek''s car leave.

    Inside the car, Derek sighed uredly as his driver drove him back to the Hotel. He never would have imagined that after a passionate night with her which he had always dreamt of in the past six years, he would wake to having a misunderstanding with her and then end up finding out that she was the samedy who had dumped his cousin on the morning of their wedding six years ago.

    What sort of coincidence was this? Or perhaps it was not a coincidence and it was all nned by her? He mused and then shook his head

    They had never met before that day six years ago, so there was no way she could have approached him because she knew who he was,

    She couldn''t even remember his face when they met again in his office. And judging by the way she had resisted his advances this whole time, he

    3:09 PM

    - doubted that any of this was schemed by her.

    So, if she hadn''t deliberately approached him six years ago, what were the chances that of all the people she could have run into on that day, it was he. Michael''s cousin, who had just returned to the country?

    Perhaps it was fate!

    He paused when he remembered how she had been crying that day and all she had said about making a mistake.

    What mistake had she been talking about? Did it have anything to do with Michael? Was it the reason she left Michael! He mused with a frown.

    His frown deepened when he remembered Michael saying Evelyn had spent the night to their wedding with her lover only to return the next morning reeking of a man''s cologne.

    When she packed up and left the house after she argued with her family, everyone had assumed she left to go be with her lover, but he knew that wasn''t true since he was the lover she had spent the night with,

    What exactly happened? Why had Evelyn been crying that day? Why did she act so recklessly that day? Why did she call off her wedding? Why didn''t she tell him about her rtionship with Michael? What exactly was going on! He mused and then sighed again.

    He would find out about what really happened that day but first, he needed to sort out the misunderstanding between them and find out who had dared to release something of that sort about him. After finding out who had released the news about him, he would find out how they got to know about it in the first ce.

    Taking out his phone, he dialed Susan''s line. Since she was Evelyn''s boss, he expected her to look into the issue and find out which of her staff had released the news and on whose order.

    Derek hoped desperately that Evelyn''s name wouldn''t be associated in any way with the release of the news. He wanted her to be innocent and to show him that he wasn''t making a mistake by giving her the benefit of the doubt.

 Chapter 49

    Evelyn sighed when she stepped into the house to find that Samantha had already gone to bed.

    Wanting to drawfort from her daughter after the events of the evening. Evelyn went into Samantha''s room and sat by the edge of the bed as she gazed at Samantha''s sleeping form.

    Although she was looking at Samantha, all she could think of was the look on Derek''s face earlier when he said he couldn''t stand seeing her being treated that way.

    She cringed at the thought that he had witnessed all that had transpired between her and her father.

    Who was he to criticize how her father had treated her when he had done the same too! she thought and then narrowed her eyes when something urred to her.

    When did he arrive at the party! Why was he there in the first ce when he didn''t even like making public appearances? Had he be close to her family in her absence! Or did Michael and Sandra invite him? Was that the reason Sandra had asked her to attend the party!

    Did Sandra put up that show because Derek was there? Did Michael not bother to tell Derek about their rtionship this whole time because they nned to embarrass her this way!

    She sighed when she remembered that Derek had wanted to ask her about her rtionship with Michael but she had been too angry and embarrassed to talk to him.

    Evelyn did not doubt that Sandra had not acted alone. Michael had to have been involved in what Sandra did, and it made her wonder why they were doing all of that when she wasn''t even bothering them. Were they trying to sabotage her chances of having an interview with Derek? Or was Sandra just feeling threatened by her presence in Derek''s life and so wanted her out of the picture?

    Was it possible that Michael could have released the news about Derek? She mused, narrowing her eyes.

    It couldn''t be a coincidence that the very day Derek told her about it was the same day Sandra visited thepany, or was it!

    But how could Michael have known what she discussed with Derek? Evelyn mused as the massaged her temple where a headache was beginning to

    throb.

    She was jolted out of her thoughts when her phone started ringing and she immediately silenced it and left the room so that she wouldn''t disturb Samantha''s sleep.

    By the time she got into her bedroom, the call had already disconnected, but before she could check who the caller was or even dial the caller back, her phone started ringing again and she sighed when she saw it was her stepmom.

    If only her father was a bit more attentive and caring like ire then maybe things wouldn''t be the way they were, she mused as she took the call

    "Hello, Mom," she greeted, her voice soft.

    "Are you home now?" ire asked, sounding exhausted.

    "Yes, Mom. I''m sorry I caused such a ruckus at your party. I shouldn''t havee," Evelyn said with a sigh.

    "What''s really going on between you and Sandra?" ire asked since could understand the problem between Evelyn and her father but she couldn''t understand what the problem was between her and Sandra.

    "It was just a misunderstanding-"

    "It wasn''t just a misunderstanding, Evie. I know you. I saw the way you looked at her. I never really understood why you didn''t reach out to her or want to see her when you got back. And now this. What''s really going on? Did Sandra do something to you? ire pressed, clearly worried for her children''s rtionship,C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

    "Mom, I can''t tell you about it. Maybe it''s best you take Sandra''s words for it," Evelyn said since she still didn''t want to tell ire what Sandra had

    done.

    "I can''t do that, Evie. I don''t want to do that. Please talk to me," ire pleaded.

    Evelyn couldn''t help but wonder how someone as sweet as ire had given birth to someone as evil as Sandra.

    "If you want me to talk to you

    this," Evelyn pleaded.

    to you, then you''d have to wait for me to do so when I''m ready. I can''t do that right now. Please, do not worry yourself over

    306 PM

    "Why can''t you tell me now!" ire asked and Evelyn sighed.

    "I promise I will tell you when the time is right. For now, I really don''t want to dwell on it," Evelyn said and ire sighed.

    "I''m sorry your father treated you that way earlier..."

    "Don''t, Mom. Don''t apologize on his behalf. I''m okay. Thank you," Evelyn said and ire sighed once again.

    "Alright. I will stop by to see you soon. Take care of yourself and Sam," ire said before hanging up.

    "Really, Mom!" Sandra, who had been cavesdropping on the call asked from behind ire, startling her.

    "Really what?" ire asked as she turned around to face Sandra.

    "I can''t believe you''re in here talking to Evelyn," she said and ire raised a brow,

    "Why not?" she asked. Wondering why Sandra''s tone and expression were usatory.

    *You saw what Evelyn did to me out there. You saw how she embarrassed me and humiliated me publicly but you didn''t take my side. Yet here you are apologizing to her because Dad scolded her. Am I your biological daughter or is Evelyn your true daughter?" Sandra asked and ire looked at her for a moment without saying anything

    "I know you, Sandy. And I know Evelyn. I raised you both myself. You are both my daughters and I won''t take sides. I don''t believe what you said earlier about the reason Evelyn did that to you-" "Mom!" Sandra eximed, unable to believe that her mother was doubting her.

    "I don''t know what happened between you both but do not expect me to take sides. And I''ve noticed how you subtly bring up inciting conversations. regarding Evelyn around your Dad. I don''t know what you hope to achieve or what you''re up to, but you better put an end to your foolishness else I will be forced to deal with you myself, ire warned before walking away,

    Sandra scowled as she watched her mother leave and then she tapped her fingers on the ind of the kitchen.

    So, her mother had known where Evelyn was the whole time and had kept it away from her. Sandra mused, thinking about what she had heard her mother say.

    She turned when Michael joined her, "Where is Derek?" she asked since she had left the party to go freshen up and change her clothes earlier after Derek left with Evelyn

    "The idiot left," Michael said after making sure no one was around to eavesdrop on their conversation.

    "With her?" She asked, not wanting to believe that their n did not work.

    "No. They left separately, Michael said, reluctant to tell her that Evelyn had been the one to leave Derek

    "What?" Sandra asked when she noticed his hesitance, and he told her that Evelyn had left Derek before he got there and went on his conversation with Derek.

    at on to tell her about

    "Are you saying our n failed?" She asked with a frown, and Michael sighed.

    "I wouldn''t say so since his parents have said they want him to be with you. Wej

    e just need to make sure Evelyn stays away from Derek. By the way, why did you put up that show? The n was for you to introduce Evelyn as your sister and let Derek figure out the rest himself," Michael said and Sandra scowled.

    "That bitch knew about us all along. Can you believe it? She knew about the both of us. I got so mad and couldn''t hold it in anymore," she said and Michael frowned.

    *She told you she knew about us?" He asked, and she nodded.

    "Yeah. It

    It''s so annoying. Cosh! I hate her so much," she said and Michael''s frown deepened.

    "Did she tell you when she found out about us?" He asked curiously.

    "No. But she probably knew about it all along and decided to string you along and wait until the wedding morning to call things off. Spiteful bitch," Sandra hissed

    "That means w

    we need to be more careful. What if she tells Derek or your parents about us?" Michael asked and Sandra smirked.

    "After the performance, I put up tonight, do you think anyone is going to believe her over me! Besides, she doesn''t have existence. If she dist, she would have exposed us already. Don''t worry about her," Sandra said but Michael shook his head

    3:06 PM

    "That''s more reason

    we

    e need to be careful. Let''s not give her the evidence she needs, okay?" Michael said and Sandra shrugged.

    "Alright then. Let''s get back to the party," Sandra said and they both returned to join the others.

 Chapter 50

    The next morning, instead of going to Stone Corp

    pas usual, Evelyn headed for her office at Empowered.

    She had received a call from Susan the previous night, informing her that the board was having a meeting that morning to discuss disciplinary measures for her, and she was to fish out the person behind the article and their source or face the consequence.

    She hade to Ludus for a promotion not to face the consequence of an action that had nothing to do with her, Evelyn thought as she looked out

    of the window of her cab.

    She was not going to let anyone, not even Sandra or Michael, get away with messing with her integrity in this manner and making people question

    ber character.

    As she walked into the building, she stopped at the reception stand and asked the receptionist to ask the heads of all the teams to gather in the conference hall for a meeting Instead of going to her office, she went straight to the conference hall to wait for them, since there was nothing for her to do in her office.

    Ten minutester, the heads of each unit came in one after the other and they all sat around the conference table.

    Evelyn couldn''t believe that the first time she would be addressing her subordinates here would be over an issue like this, and it angered her even

    more.

    Evelyn looked around at everyone seated at the table, "Im sure I do not need to tell you the reason I called for this meeting." Evelyn said as she TOK and paced around her seat.

    "I''m going to go straight to the point. Who released the article on Mr Derek Stone? And on whose order was it released?" She asked as her gaze moved from one person to the other.

    The

    deputy editor cleared his throat and all eyes turned to him, "The information came in through our tip line from an anonymous source some days ago. We looked into it. Checked old pictures of Derek Stone and thest picture of him online before he stopped making public appearances and we confirmed the news before releasing it."

    *So, it was released on your order?" Evelyn asked and he nodded hesitantly without meeting her gaze.

    "Why wasn''t I informed before the story was published?" Evelyn said, feeling frustrated at the whole thing.

    Although, she had figured that if someone was doing it to set her up, then the information must havee as an anonymous tip but now that she knew for sure, she just couldn''t help feeling frustrated, since it didn''t help her plight.

    "You know very well that our weekend column is all about gossip. How were we supposed to know this would cause such amotion? It''s not like we can inform you about everything we publish here. Besides, you haven''t resumed here officially yet, he pointed out

    "The point here is that you all knew I was working on an exclusive with Derek Stone, yet you went on to publish something like this about him. Do you have any idea how much trouble this has caused me?" Evelyn asked through gritted teeth, trying hard not to yell

    "I admit that didn''t think of that. I''m sorry. I didn''t realize it would blow up like this. I just wanted to get the story out there," he said and Evelyn sighed, feeling a wave of frustration "Who is the head of IT here? Is there a way we can track the anonymous caller?" She asked, but he shook his head.

    "We can''t. You know thepany''sws protect the privacy rights of our anonymous callers. Besides, it wasn''t like the tip was false," he said and Evelyn massaged her temple. "I guess that''s the end of this meeting. You can all leave," she said and walked out of the hall before any of them could rise.

    Tears of frustration burned her eyes as she made her way back to her office, her heart beating

    ng hard and fast.

    What was she going to do now? How was she ever going to find the person behind the anonymous tip? She couldn''t believe that there was no way for her to prove her innocence. Inside her office, Evelyn bowed her head as she let herself break down in tears. She didn''t know what to do. She was feeling confused, frustrated. angry, and wronged While Evelyn was busy trying to figure out the way forward, Derek was in his office, a frown etched on his face as he wondered why Evelyn wasn''t in the office yet. He knew that they had a misunderstanding, but they had yet to officially end their arrangement, so why wasn''t she at the office?

    3:06 PM d

    Was it because she was mad at him? He mused, thinking about all that had transpired between them from the moment he received the call from his mother at the resort.

    He had been thinking about it all since the previous night, and he admitted that he didn''t exactly handle things right or leave room for doubt despite her insistence that she was innocent.

    He had been so sure that she was responsible for the article, but afterst night and how she had reminded him of the NDA, he couldn''t help but be in doubt

    Was it possible that someone overheard their conversation? What was he missing? He mused as kept reying everything that happened from the moment he woke up at the resort tost night at the Quinn''s residence.

    He narrowed his eyes when he remembered how confident Michael had been that it was Evelyn who had released the news when he didn''t even know if he had confided in Evelyn about it or not.

    He remembered how Michael had also talked about Evelyn releasing confidential information which she was supposed to keep to herself.

    Was it possible that Michael was the one responsible for all of this? Derek mused notN?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    ot wanting to believe it.

    Why

    would Michael do such a thing? What did he stand to gain by releasing such sensitive information!

    As Derek pondered on it, he remembered when Michael had firste to him iming to be curious about who Evelyn was and what she was doing in his office. He also remembered how upset Michael had been when he told him he was granting Evelyn the interview.

    Parents"

    He thought about how Michael had hidden Evelyn''s identity from him this whole time only to invite him to her family house for her p anniversary party

    Michael must have known that Ex

    Evelyn would be there. Had it all been his n? It was all beginning to seem suspicious

    Could Michael have released the news just so that he would get conversation with Evelyn, since he knew that the only thing Michael knew was the fact that he was adopted?

    rid of Evelyn? But then, how could Michael have found out all that detail of his

    He

    e couldn''t possibly have overheard the e conversation, so how? Derek mused and shook his head when a thought crossed his mind.

    No way. There was no way Michael could have gone as far as bugging his office, Derek told h suspicious device.

    himself as he began to look around his office for any

    Even as he searched around, he prayed and hoped that he wouldn''t see anything of the sort then, but all his hope came crumbling down when he looked under his desk and saw the bug Michael had nted.

 Chapter 51

    Instead of going to confront Michael as Derek really wanted to do, he grabbed his phone and dialed Evelyn''s line.

    He couldn''t believe how much he had messed up. He had wronged Evelyn. He had used her falsely and had not even listened when she kept insisting that she wasn''t behind it.

    Thinking about how hurt and confused she had been when he was using her, the only thing that came to his mind was that he needed to apologize to her. He needed to let her know he now knew she was innocent

    When she didn''t receive the call, he hurried out of his office. Although he didn''t know where she lived, he knew her ce of work and believed that she would most likely be there trying to find out who was behind the news

    The moment he got to the Empowered building, he was directed to Evelyn''s office, and when he got there, he knocked on the door before pushing it open.

    As Derek entered Evelyn''s office, he was met with a sight that made his heart skip a beat. Evelyn was sitting at her desk, her head bowed and shoulders shaking as she sobbed uncontrobly.

    Her usuallyposed and confident demeanor had crumbled, and she looked vulnerable and broken.

    her

    Derek''s eyes widened in shock and regret as he realized the extent of the pain and distress he had caused her. He felt a pang of guilt and remorse for using her falsely and not believing her when she insisted on her innocence.

    Derek approached her slowly, not wanting to startle her, and cleared his throat to announce his presence. Evelyn looked up, her eyes red and puffy from crying, and their gazes met.

    He opened his mouth to speak, but before he could utter a word, Evelyn spoke, her eyes zing with anger and hurt.

    What do you want? Are you here to use me some more and tell me how untrustworthy Lam? Evelyn asked as she rose, feeling both embarrassed and angry that he had seen her in that state. "No, Eve, I''m sorr

    Before Derek could finish, she cut in, "Get out Leave my office, now. I don''t want to see you."

    "Evelyn, I''m sorry for how I handled everything. Please listen to me-

    "No." she interrupted, her voice rising "I don''t want to hear anything you have to say. You''ve made it clear what you think of me. And I have nothing else to say to you. I have no way to prove that I''m innocent, so it''s fine if you still believe that I exposed everything. Just leave."

    "Eve, I believe that you''re innocent-

    Derek tried to speak again, but Evelyn cut him off, her words pouring out angrily even though she knew he didn''t exactly deserve her anger.

    "I don''t care what you think or believe anymore. And I don''t want your apologies or your excuses. I just want you to leave me alone. If you have a problem with me, send yourwyer. Get out of my office, get out of §êy life.

    Derek''s face fell as he realized the depth of Evelyn''s pain and anger. He knew he had hurt her, and he didn''t me her for not wanting to listen to him.

    Taking a deep breath, he turned and walked out of her office, wanting to give her some time to calm down since it seemed like her emotions were high.

    As Derek returned to the office, he kept thinking about what to do about the bug in his office.

    Even though he was feeling very tempted to confront Michael, he didn''t want to act rashly. He needed to first understand the situation and he could only do that by talking to Evelyn first.

    Although Michael was his cousin, he felt like Michael was not beingpletely honest with him and he couldn''t trust him.

    Even though Evelyn was the one who had dumped Michael on the morning of their wedding, he knew enough to know there was more to the story than Michael had told the family, since he had seen Evelyn''s pitiful state the day before the wedding.

    Also, he could understand and excuse why Evelyn could have hidden her rtionship with Michael from him, but he couldn''t do the same for Michael

    Michael had betrayed him twice and it wasn''t just over some trivial matter but major issues. He would never be able to trust him again

    press

    It was one thing for Michael to hide his rtionship with Evelyn from him, and it was another for him to expose such a family secret to the p just to get at Evelyn. As much as Derek knew there was a slight possibility that Michael might not be the one who nted the bug, the chance of it being his handiwork was much higher. Michael knew his way around such devices since his father was a private investigator, and could easily get

    uld easily get his hands

    hands on one.

    As Derek walked into his office, his phone started ringing with a call from Susan, Evelyn''s boss, and he sighed as he received the call.

    "HaveContent ? N?velDrama.Org.

    you found the culprit? Derek asked the moment he received the call.

    Tm sorry, Mr. Stone. The information came in as a tip from an anonymous source, Susan said apologetically.

    ery well that Michael would have covered his tracks properly so it wouldn''t be traced back to him.

    Derek knew very

    "It''s okay. You can inform Ms Quinn that the arrangement is still on and she can resume tomorrow," Derek said, deciding to use Susan to bring Evelyn back to work.

    "That won''t be possible, Mr. Stone.

    "Why not?" he asked curiously.

    "We will be sending someone els-"

    "Didn''t I make it clear enough that it''s Evelyn Quinn or no one else?" Derek cut in, and Susan sighed.

    "You did, but your parents requested that we fire her or they will take legal action against us. We can''t afford that, so the board has decided to let her go. Susan said and Derek''s heart skipped a beat. Was that the reason she had been crying earlier in her office? Derek mused.

    "How can you do that when you know she isn''t responsible for it? Shouldn''t you be more protective of your employee?" Derek asked, pissed.

    "We can''t afford awsuit." Susan said simply, and Derek sighed.

    "Have you terminated her employment already?" he asked, hoping they had not done so yet.

    "No. Not yet. I wanted to talk to you first. Susan said and Derek sighed in relief.

    "Don''t fire her. I''m sure she is not responsible for this. I will talk to my parents and resolve the misunderstanding. Please convince your board," Derek said before ending the call, making up his mind to go sort it out with his parents.

    There was no way he would let her lose her job over something Michael had done. That would be too unfair.

 Chapter 52

    Unable to focus on work, Derek asked his secretary to reschedule all his appointments for the day as he left the office, and headed home to meet with his parents

    He knew that his parents were not going to be pleased with him if he showed up there to beg on Evelyn''s behalf without proof of her innocence, but this had to be done. Evelyn was innocent and he was not going to let her suffer for this no matter the case.

    When he got there, he saw his mother in the living room and after greeting her, he looked around, "Where is Dad!"

    "He''s in his study. Is there a problem! Why are you here in the middle of a workday?" She asked curiously.

    "I wanted to talk to you both about something." Derek said and his mother nodded.

    "Let''s go join him in his study then," she said, and as she led the way, she looked at him.

    "Did you know that the shameless girl from Empowered is the same girl your cousin was going to marry?" his mother asked, and he turned to look

    at her.

    "How did you know?" Derek asked, wondering when his parents found out about it.

    "How else! Michael told us about itst night. Poor Michael. I can''t imagine how hard it must have been for him to watch you work with her, yet he kept it to himself because he didn''t want to interfere with her career. Too bad for her that I''m not as merciful as Michael. I intend to teach her a lesson. She can''t publicly embarrass our family twice and get away with it this time," his mother said as they walked into the study.

    them

    Hearing all this, Derek could see that it wouldn''t be easy to convince his parents to let Evelyn be. This was exactly what Michael had wanted.

    "Derek, what are you doing at home during work hours? I hope it''s not because you''re still worried about us?" His father when he saw

    "I came to talk to you both" Derek said, and his father gestured for him to sit.

    "What is wrong?" His father asked after he was seated.

    "I heard from the CEO of Empowered that you threatened to file awsuit against them if they don''t relieve Evelyn of her job," Derek said, and his mother nodded

    "Of course. Although losing her job won''t be enough to make up for the damage she has done to this family, but that is a start," his mother said firmly.

    "I asked that they shouldn''t fire her, Derek said and his parents exchanged a nce before looking at him like he had lost his mind,

    "You did what!" his mother asked wanting to be sure she had heard wrong

    "I asked them not to fire her. I understand how upset you are over this incident and-"

    "You understand? No. I''m not sure you do. If you did, you wouldn''t ask them to defy our order. Is all of this a joke to you? Do you have any idea how devastating that article was? His mother asked, looking both hurt and disappointed, while his father simply stared at him with a stony expression

    -Why di

    did you ask them not to fire her!" His father asked quietlyN?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    "I found out that she didn''t tell anyone about it and neither was she the one that put out the story. I don''t think it is right for her to lose her job over something that someone else did. Derek said and his mother looked at him unbelievably.

    "Really? Does that mean you told someone else about it too?" She asked, and he shook his head.

    "I didn''t

    "Then someone overheard you both and published the news? I take it the person came forward to confess?" His father asked, and Derek shook his head.

    "Do you have proof of her innocence? His mother asked.

    No, but-

    "Then how do you know she isn''t behind it? Don''t tell me you''re taking

    word for it," his father said, sounding both impatient and annoyed now,

    Although Derek was tempted to tell them about the bug he found in his office, he didn''t want to reveal it to them yet. He knew that if he told them, they would tell Michael about it, and he didn''t want that. He didn''t want Michael to know that he was on to him.

    Clupter 59

    "I can''t prove it to you right now, but if you give me some time I will just don''t let them live her. Take my word for it, she doesn''t deserve this. don''t want her to suffer for something she didn''t do, Derek said and his mother looked at him sunpiciously

    ¡°Let''s assume that I believe you and she didn''t do this, but still, she hurt your cousin and disgraced our family. She deserves to suffer for doing that too," his mother insisted.

    "I believe she had her reasons for calling off the wedding and she shouldn''t be punished for that, Derek said, and his mother looked at him incredulously.

    What hase over you, Derek? How can you take the side of someone like that over your family! Have you forgotten so soon how devastated your cousin was after she called off the wedding the way she did! What stupid reason could she have had to be with another man on the day before her wedding! His mother asked angrily.

    "Don''t tell me you''re doing all this because you''re interested in her, Derek, his father asked suspiciously.

    "Are you?" his mother asked when she saw that he didn''t deny it immediately as she had expected him to.

    Derek nodded, "Yes, I am. I wouldn''t have told her about it if I wasn''t interested in her in the first ce," he said unapologetically.

    "How can you be in love with her even after finding out who she is! That temptress! I can see she approached you on purpose. Perhaps it was her n all along. I''m sure she didn''t tell you about her rtionship with Michael. Or did she!" His mother asked and Derek sighed

    "Evelyn isn''t that sort of person, Mom. She didn''t even know who I was."

    "That is what she wants you to think! You''re in love and have lost your senses, but as your mother. I won''t let her do to you what she did to Michael I won''t let that evil girle anywhere close to you," his mother said and picked up her phone.

    "What are you doing, Mom?" Derek asked when he saw the determination in his mother''s eyes,

    "I''m calling Empowered headquarters and asking them to fire her with immediate effect!"

    "No, Moms. You can''t do that, Please. Dad, talk to her. Evelyn really isn''t that sort of person. Please, just let her be. If not for anything but for my sake, Derek pleaded and his parents exchanged nces. Even though they were angry that he was intervening for her, they knew they couldn''t entirely say no to him expecially since he was begging them this way!

    "Why are you so certain she didn''t release the news? Is it because you''re in love with her and you don''t want to admit she betrayed your trust?" His

    father asked and Derek shook his head

    "No, Dad. It''s not that. It''s far from it. You saw me yesterday. I didn''t defend her when I thought she was guilty. But I have tangible reasons to believe she is innocent, trust me. I''m not so stupid to want to defend her if she betrayed me this way. 1 just need a little more time to prove Derek exined and his father nodded.

    Wellde

    "Honey, we should listen to Derek. We''ve always trusted him, let''s trust him too on this one." bis fathe

    one, his father said, and his mother sighed.

    "We''ll drop the case and let her go on one condition. Derek''s mother said, deciding to use the opportunity perfectly well.

    "What condition?" Derek asked, knowing he won''t like it

    "You are to stay away from her and stop all arrangements with her as we previously agreed. Now that we know she is Michael''s ex will let her anywhere near you."

    there''s no

    way 1

    "Can we reach apromise? I still want her to be the one to do the interview, especially after all this mess, She doesn''t have toe to my other: anymore or hang around with me. We will just do the interview and be done with it, Derek pleaded and his mother looked at him for some time.

    "Fine. I will let you do that only on one condition," she said and Derek sighed.

    "What''s the condition!"

    "You will get married to Sandra. To that end, you''ll have to go on a date with her. I heard what that heartless girl did to the poor girl at their family partyst night simply because she remained a good friend to Michael."

    "Mom, I can''t just marry someone I don''t even know, Derek said, not liking the idea of marrying Sandra.

    Apart from the fact that he didn''t like her brause he knew the whole idea of marriage between them must have been nted in his mother''s heart by Michael, he also did not like her.

    Although he did not really know her, seeing her altercation with Evelynst night had told him he wouldn''t like her. He didn''t need to know what had transpired between them to take Evelyn''s side. Right now. Evelyn could do no wrong in his eyes.

    "That''s why you will go on dates with her and get to know her. She''s beautiful and sharp so you won''t have a problem getting along. That is my condition," Mrs Stone said and Derek linked at her for a moment before nodding

    Even though he didn''t like it, he knew he needed to agree so he could help Evelyn secure her job and the exclusive interview since that had been the condition for her promotion.

    "If that is what you want, I will do it," he said, hoping that after he is able to get to the root of what happened between Evelyn and Michael six years ago and prove that Michael had released the news of his adoption to the press, then his mother wouldn''t trust Michael so easily anymore, and she would change her mind about Sandra

    "Good then. I believe it is settled. I will text you the details of the date after it''s been arranged," his mother said with a pleased smile.

 Chapter 53

    made her way to the exit and headed home

    Evelyn''s thoughts were a tangled mess, a mix of fear, anger, and sadness as she ma

    She had nothing left to do at work as she awaited the verdict from her superiors, and the wright of it all was crushing.

    The day had been a blur of emotions, and her heart felt heavy with the uncertainty that loomed over her

    Although the distance between her office to her apartment was a ten-minute drive, she decided to walk, needing to clear her head

    Each step feltboreil as if she was dragging her feet through the swamp of her thoughts.

    Evelyn''s mind kept reying all that happened since Sunday morning and now, with the added threat of loung her job, she felt as though her world was crumbling around her. When she finally arrived at her modest apartment, Evelyn unlocked the door and stepped inside, her shoulders slumping with exhaustion.

    She closed the door behind her with a soft click, the sound resonating in the quiet space

    "Mama"" a small voice called out, full of excitement and warmth.

    Evelyn barely had time to set down her bag before a blur of movement raced toward her. Samantha threw herself into her mother''s arms, her giggles filling the room with life.

    "You''re back so early Samantha eximed, her arms wrapping tightly around Evelyn''s neck.

    Samantha''s enthusiasm was contagious, and for a moment, the weight on Evelyn''s chest lightened as she held her daughter close.

    as

    Evelyn hugged Samantha tightly, her face buried in her daughter''s sofi curls. She inhaled deeply, the scent of innocence and love surrounding her. The tears she had been holding back since she left the office threatened to spill over, but she blinked them away, not wanting to rm her daughter "Are you sick, Mommy?" Samantha asked, her voiceced with concern as she pulled back slightly to look at Evelyn''s face

    Evelyn forced a smile, her heart aching at the sight of her daughter''s worried expression. "No sweetheart. Im just a little tired," she lied, brushing a hand through Samantha''s hair.

    Samantha''s big blue eyes searched her mother''s face for any sign of illness, but she didn''t seem convinced. Still, she didn''t p she took her mother''s hand, tugging gently. "Come on. Mommy. Let''s go to your room. You can rest and I will keep youpany."

    t press further. Instead.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "You''re wee, ma''am, Maya greeted from the side, and Evelyn gave her a nod as she let herself be led by Samantha, their footsteps quiet against the floors as they walked down the hallway.

    Inside her room, Evelyn sat on the edge of the bed with her back resting on the headboard, and Samantha immediately climbed up beside her. snuggling close.

    The warmth of her daughter''s body next to hers brought a small measure offort, but it wasn''t enough to dispel the storm of emotions swirling within her.

    Samantha nestled into her mother''s side, resting her head on Evelyn''s shoulder. The child''s presence was a balm to Evelyn''s frayed nerves, and she found herself holding her daughter a little tighter, drawing strength from the connection they shared

    As shey on the bed, Evelyn''s mind raced with thoughts of the future. How would she provide for Samantha if she lost her job? The prospect of starting anew was daunting, especially with her daughter set to start school the following week. She had moved back to Ludus with the hope of rebuilding her life, but now, everything seemed uncertain

    The question gnawed at her: had she made a mistake by leaving Hu'' Maybe she should have remained in Husta, where she had friends who offered some semnce of security and were far away from people like Sandra and Michael

    She sighed as she remanded herself that there was no need to look back now since that chapter of her life was over, and she had made her choser. Now, she had to live with the consequences.

    East in thought. Evelyn didn''t notice the time passing until the sharp trill of her phone broke through her reverie. She sat up abruptly, her heart potinding as she reached for her phone on the nightstand When she saw Susan''s name shing on the screen, her breath hitched and her pulse quickened with anticipation. Samantha, who had doard at, forded upammiously as Evelyn stood.an you go y in the living room for a big Evelyn kel, her voice slightly strained.

    Samantha hesitated but then nodded, slipping off the bed and padding out of the room with a concerned nce over her shoulder. Evelyn waited until she heard the door click shut before she answered the call, her hand trembling slightly.

    "Hello. Susan," she greeted, trying to keep her voice steady.

    "Evelyn, I just spoke with the board Susan began, her tone careful, as though she was measuring each word. Evelyn''s heart sank at the ominous pause that followed. They decided to let you go." Evelyn''s world seemed to tilt on its axis, and for a moment, she couldn''t breathe. The words hit her like a physical blow, and she gripped the edge of the nightstand to steady herself.

    "But. Susan continued, "Mr. Stone intervened. He convinced the board to reconsider, and you''re not being let go after all. I thought you should

    know.

    Relief washed over Evelyn in a wave, so intense that her knees nearly buckled. She closed her eyes, a shaky breath escaping her as the tension in her body eased slightly. "Thank you, Susan. I-I don''t know what to say, she stammered, her voice thick with emotion

    "You should thank Mr. Stone, Susan added before ending the call.

    Evelyn stared at her phone, the relief slowly giving way to a mix of gratitude and frustration. She was grateful that she still had her job, but the thought of Derek stepping in to save her left her with conflicting emotions. She wasn''t sure how to feel about it, considering everything that had happened between them.

    She was still very mad and disappointed in him, and at the same time, she was too

    she was too embarrassed to face him.

    Just as she was about to sit down again, her phone rang once more. This time, when she saw Derek''s name on the screen, her heart skipped a beat. Her fingers hovered over the screen, hesitant to answer, but after a few moments of indecision, she swiped to ept the call.

    "Evelyn, Derek''s voice came through the line,

    calm yet i

    yet insistent, "I''m outside your house. I need to see you.

 Chapter 54

    Evelyn''s breath caught in her throat when she heard that. Outside her house or her office? Perhaps she didn''t hear him properly. She told herself as she nced toward the window, her mind racing, "You can''t see me. I''ve left the office," she replied, her voice trembling slightly as she prayed she had heard wrongly.

    Tim aware of that. I''m right outside your house, not your office, Derek repeated a hint of urgency in his tone. "I need to talk to you. Pleasee out or I''lle to your door. The only reason I haven''t done that is because I promised not to barge in on you. So, consider this a courtesy call

    Hearing this. Evelyn''s heart rate increased. How did he know where she was staying? Why was he there? What about Samantha? What if he saw her? What should she do now!

    She couldn''t allow him into her home or even remain outside her house. She couldn''t risk him seeing Samantha. Thest thing she wanted was for Derek to see Samantha

    "I will be right outside. Give me a moment," she said quickly before ending the call.

    Immediately she ended the call, she hurried out of her room, finding Maya and Samantha in the living room. "Maya, please make sure Samantha doesn''t step outside until 1 return. I have to go out for a bit. "Is there a problem?" Maya asked when she saw how pale Evelyn looked and heard the urgency in her tone.

    Evelyn shook her head. "No. Just make sure you both don''t step out. I''ll be back soon, she said and Maya nodded, concern flickering in her eyes as she watched Evelyn kiss Samantha''s forehead before hurting out the door,

    As Evelyn stepped outside, her breath hitched when she saw Derek''s car parked at the curbs

    What would she have said or done had she been outside with Samantha'' She mused as she took a deep breath to calm herself before hurrying over to meet him.

    On getting to the car, Derek opened the door and gestured for her to get in. As Evelyn slid into the seat, she forced herself to stay calm, since she didn''t want to give herself away by acting suspiciously. "Thank you foring out-

    "How did you find out where I liver she asked, cutting him off irritably.

    Derek''s gaze met hers, a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes. "Did you really think after losing you six years ago that I wouldn''t make sure to know where you lived this whole time in case you disappear again?"

    His words hung in the air between them, filled with unspoken emotions. Evelyn swallowed hard, her fingers gripping the edge of her seat.

    "You knew where I''ve been staying all this time?" she asked a tinge of fear in her voice which Derek mistook for surprise.

    "Yes, I did. I wasn''t going to take any chances," he said with a shrug and Evelyn swallowed as different thoughts ran through her mind.

    Did that mean he had followed her or how did he find out! Had he by chance seen Samantha? He certainly haven''t if he had not asked her about it. She told herself, deciding to tackle why he was there so that he could leave and not ran into Samantha

    "What do you want, Mr. Stone?" she asked, looking at him.

    Derek sighed, "I see we are back to being formal," he said and she nodded.

    "Yes, we are. Only friends who understand and trust each other should address each other informally. So, I ask again, what do you want!"

    "I want us to talk," he replied simply, his tone earnest. "Can we go in! We can''t talk here..."

    "No, we can''t!" Evelyn said, sounding harsher than she had intended, but she didn''t careCopyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    He deserved it. He deserved it for showing up uninvited and he deserved it for not believing her.

    Derek nodded, understanding the unspoken reason behind her refusal to let him into her house. "Is there somewhere we can go then?" he asked -and Evelyn sighed.

    "There''s a park around the block. We can go there, she offered, and Derek started the car, driving in silence until they reached the small, sechaded park

    They found a bench under a tree, away from prying eyes and ears. Evelyn sat down first, her arms crossed defensively as she looked at Derek

    "I know you''re still very angry at me, and I deserve it. I doubted you and said things I shouldn''t have and so, I want to properly apologize to you. I''m very sorry. I feel ashamed of myself for saying I trusted you when I couldn''t show my trust in you when you needed it. I regret it," he said truthfully and Evelyn blinked back the tears that gathered in her eyes when the memories of that morning and everything that had happened after came to

    mind

    "Your apology doesn''t change anything, Mr. Stone. What''s done is done. But I appreciate you stepping in and helping me keep my job. I''m grateful for that even though I would never have been at risk of losing it in the first ce if you and your family didn''t jump to the conclusion that I was behind the news," she said and Derek sighed deeply.

    He knew she was right. If Michael hadn''t made his parents believe that she was responsible for it, they never would have asked her boss to fire her.

    "I want to make things right, Evelyn. I don''t want any more misunderstandings between us. I''m truly sorry. Can you forgive me?" he asked and she sighed, her gaze dropping to the ground as she wrestled with her emotions.

    Although she had been quite angry at him and had thought she wouldn''t be able to forgive him, hearing him apologize now made her realize she had forgiven him but was just disappointed in him.

    "If you don''t mind me asking, why do you suddenly believe me! It''s not like the culprit was caught. So, why do you think I didn''t do it?" Evelyn asked curiously as she looked at him.

    "Well, I was too upset to think straight, and when I was calm, I thought about what you said. It didn''t make sense that you would release news like that after signing an agreement with me," Derek said and Evelyn nodded.

    As much as his reaction had hurt her, what he said made sense. Anyone would have been upset i

    in his shoes.

    "I''m sorry it got out. I don''t know how anyone else got to know about it. It wouldn''t have been exposed had I not asked you to tell me.

    "About that, I know how it got out, and I think I know who''s behind it, Derek admitted, watching her reaction carefully.

    Evelyn looked at him, her eyes narrowing slightly. "I thought you said I was the only one you told. Did you tell anyone else about it?"

    "No," Derek shook his head. "Only you," he said and Evelyn raised a brow.

    "Then how do you know who released it if you didn''t tell anyone else? Who are you suspecting?" she asked, her curiosity evident in her tone. She wanted to know if he was also suspecting Michael and why.

 Chapter 55

    Derek held Evelyn''s gaze for a moment as he contemted telling her about his suspicions.

    Although it was shameful to admit to her that it was a member of his family who had caused him all that trouble, Derek knew she deserved in know.

    The same way he wanted to know why she didn''t tell him about Michael and the reason she called off her wedding six years ago.

    "Before I tell you anything. I need to know why you didn''t tell me about your rtionship with Michael...

    "My past rtionship with Michael. I have no rtionship with him now she corrected not wanting to be associated with him like that.

    Derek nodded. "Yes. Your past rtionship with him. Why didn''t you tell me about it!"

    Tim sorry I didn''t tell you about it. I know I should have. I thought Michael would tell you..."

    "I''m not talking about Micheal, Eve. Why didn''t you tell me! I would have very much preferred to hear it from you than find out about it the way I

    did," he said and she nodded

    "I promise that I had no idea who you were when we met six years ago.....¡±

    "I know you didn''t. You would have to be a witch to have arranged our meeting so perfectly. Derek said

    Derek said and she nodded, relieved that he believed

    her.

    "And when I was sent to interview you, I knew you were Michael''s cousin, and when I realized you didn''t know about me and Michael I couldn''t tell. you because I didn''t how you''d react. I feared you''d call off the interview and it meant so much to me at the time, she admitted and Derek nodded. hearing the sincerity in her voice.

    He had figured out that much himself since it made sense, but he had wanted to hear it from her.

    "If you don''t mind me asking, what exactly happened six years ago? Although I saw Michael and how hurt he was, I also saw you that day. I can tell. there''s a story behind your actions so, what''s the story?" Derek asked, hoping she would tell him this time.

    Evelyn shook her head. "I don''t want to talk about it," she said and then narrowed her eyes

    "You''re asking me about this because you''re suspecting Michael, aren''t you? she asked and Derek raised a brow as he looked at b

    "Why are asking

    me that? Am I supposed to suspect him?" he asked, wanting to hear her opinion and reasons,

    Evelyn shrugged. "I wouldn''t put it past him. I believe he did it. I just don''t have the evidence to prove it," she said and Derek sighed.

    "Actually, I found something under my desk-a listening device. Derek said and Evelyn looked at him shocked.

    "You mean your office was bugged!" she asked and he nodded, she shook her head.

    That exins it. Now it all makes perfect sense," she said and Derek nodded.

    "Yes. I won''t let it slide though. I''m definitely going to expose him."

    "Don''t At least not yet," Evelyn said and Derek narrowed his eyes.

    "Why? Is there a particr reason why you don''t want me to?" he asked and she nodded.

    "Yes. I believe Michael and Sandra are up to something and it is best to not let them know you''re on to them until you find out what they''re up to she said and Derek looked at her surprised. "Sandra your sister?" he asked and she nodded.

    You t

    think she''s working with Michael he asked wondering what they must be nning if true.

    "I don''t think they''re working together. I know it," she said and Derek sat up, wanting to know what was happening.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

    , Eve?" he asked and she shook her head

    What exactly is going on, I

    "I don''t know exactly what. All I know is, you need to be careful, very careful. If they can go as far as bugging your office, who knows what else they are going to do?" she asked and he nodded even though his mind was a whirlwind of thoughts.

    It made a lot of sense that Michael was working with Sandra, seeing how his mother was trying to get him to marry her.

    His hands clenched into fists on his thigh, "So we y along and act as if we''re oblivious?" he asked and she nodded.

    "I can do that but I won''t let it slide if they pull a stunt like this and try to harm you again, Derek said, making up his mind to y along with Sandra

    A bit of silence settled between them, both of them thinking about the situation of things and what Michael and Sandra could be nning.

    After the silence had stretched for a while, Evelyn looked at him, "What if you didn''t find the bug in your office! Would you be here if you didn''t have any tangible proof of my innocence?"

    "If I didn''t believe you were innocent I wouldn''t have searched for something to prove your innocence in the first ce," he said and she sighed.

    "I messed up. I know I did. Eve. And I''m deeply sorry for it. Can you please give me another chance!" he said and after a while, she shook her head

    "I forgive you, but I don''t know what you mean by another chance," she said and Derek raised his brow.

    "Don''t worry about that. For now, let''s talk about how to go forward with the interview," he said, deciding not to ask her for another chance to win

    her heart

    He couldn''t actively chase her yet because of his a

    agreement with his mother and he didn''t want to tell her about it either.

    Evelyn shook her head. "I don''t think you should do it anymore considering all this mess."

    "I have to. As a matter of fact, I think that is more reason why I should proceed with it First, because we had an agreement and I need to honor it as you have honored it thus far. Secondly, because now that everything is out, there is no reason for me to keep hiding, and I want you to help me put out something positive about my adoption to correct the lies they spread, andstly your promotion is attached to it. After the trouble this has caused you, you should get your promotion." Derek said and Evelyn sighed.

    "I guess you have a point.."

    "But you won''t have toe to my office anymore. Let''s just fix a date for the interview," Derek said and Evelyn nodded, d to hear that

    "Thank you. Eve. I want you to know that I''m sorry for everything. Not just for doubting you, but for the way I''ve handled things that day especially after that night," Derek said, holding her gaze. Evelyn''s heart ached at his words as the memories of that Saturday night came to mind but she quickly pushed the emotions aside.

    "It''s okay. All that is past now," Evelyn said and stood up, brushing off her clothes as if to shake away the tension. "I should get back now. It''s gettingte," she said and Derek rose as well

    TII drop you off, Derek said but Evelyn quickly shook her head.

    ves. Derek nodded.

    "It''s okay. I''ll walk. I need the air," she said, and seeing the determined look in her eyes,

    you insist. Thank you for meeting with me," he said and Evelyn offered a small smile.

    "It''s nothing. I hope you don''t show up at my ce again this way," Evelyn said and turned to leave.

    "Eve," Derek called, stopping her.

    Evelyn turned back to look at him, "Yeah?"

    For a moment Derek considered telling her about his parents'' desire for him to date Sandra, but he shook his head. "Never mind."

    Evelyn gave him a nod before walking away. As she walked back to her house, Evelyn''s mind was upied by various thoughts of how she was going to keep Samantha a secret from Derek, seeing as he knew her house.

    He could show up any day like he did today and see Samantha. Though she was worried about what Michael and Sandra were nning, she was more worried about Derek finding out about Samantha and her paternity.

    She needed to do something, but she didn''t know what, Moving wasn''t an option since this wasn''t a hotel that she could change easily.

 Chapter 56

    After the close of work, instead of going home, Michael decided to go visit Derek''s parents to check on them and make sure everything was still going ording to n.

    He arrived at the Stone family mansion and was, as usual, greeted warmly by Derek''s parents who were in the living room.

    Did

    youe directly from thepany!" Derek''s mom asked when she saw the files he was holding

    "Yes, aunt. I came to see how you are feeling now," Michael said with a concerned frown, his voice dripping with sincerity.

    "You work too hard, Michael. This is more than two hours after closing hour," she said and Michael waved it off.

    "It''s nothing. Aunt. I had some work left to do so I had to stay back. How are you both doing?" Michael asked looking from his aunt to her husband.

    "We''re fine, dear. It''s good to see that you''re doing a good job at helping Derek out at thepany. I''m d," Mr Stone said and his wife nodded.

    "I got these vitamins for you. You''ve been stressed a lot. I was told it is good for people your age," Michael said, and his aunt smiled as she took it from him

    "Thank you, dear. You''ve always been such a good nephew, Michael. I hope you''re going to have dinner with us before you leave?" she asked and Michael smiled.

    "Only if you prepared it," he joked and his auntughed.

    "I will

    go see what is going on in the kitchen," she said as she excused herself.

    After she left, Michael and Mr Stoneunched into a long conversation about politics and sports.

    A short whileter she returned to join them, "Why don''t you both bring your lively conversation with you to the dining?" she asked and theyughed as they followed her to the dining.

    After they had eaten for a while, Michael looked at his aunt, "I hope you''re feeling better now that everything has settled and Evelyn has been fired?" he asked and his aunt smiled, touched by his concer "Thank you, Michael. We''re fine but I''m afraid we changed our mind about having her fred," she said and Michael frowned.

    "You changed your mind? Why?" Michael asked, and Mr Stone nced at his wife before responding.

    "Derek believes someone else is responsible for the scandal, not her, and he pleaded with us to let it go," Mr Stone said and Michael''s frown deepened, fear gripping his heart for a moment "Who else will be responsible for it if not Evelyn?" he asked, wanting to know all Derek had said to them.

    "We don''t know the details. He said he''s gathering proof and would in time expose the person behind it," Mr Stone said causing Michael''s heart to skip a bear, as he felt a sudden wave of anxiety wash over him.

    Did Derek find the bug in his office already? Was he suspecting him! But if so, Derek would have confronted him: The Derek he knew was a confrontational person and wasn''t one to keep something like that to himself, so why was he not asking him yet?

    Or did Derek just say that to have his parents let Evelyn go? He mused and then shook his head. That didn''t make sense. From all Derek''s parents had said, Derek seemed confident that Evelyn wasn''t the culprit. Who then was he suspecting!

    he moment

    He had to find a way to get that bug out of Derek''s office in case he hadn''t seen it already since he knew Derek would know it was him the he set eyes on the device.

    "We were also as confused as you when he told us it wasn''t her, Derek''s mother said thinking the frown on Michael''s face was because he was confused.

    Keeping his voice steady. Michael shook his head. "I don''t know but I have a feeling that Derek said that to keep her from not getting fired unless he told someone else about it, Michael said but Derek''s father shook his head.

    "I don''t think that is the cas

    case," Mr Stone said and even though Michael was already getting irritated and frustrated, he tried to remain calm.

    "Seeing as he had no evidence, I don''t think you should have let him stop you. We all know how softhearted Derek is. I''m sure she knows it too and she is taking advantage of it," Michael said and Mrs Stone sighed

    "Lagree with you. But we let her go on the condition that he marry Sandra, so we don''t have to worry y about her taking advantage of him anymore, she said anel Michel who had been fuming in anger raised a brow when he heard that.

    172Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    §±

    "He agreed?" Michael asked with a pleased smile.

    He was d that even though Evelyn had not lost her job as he had wanted, Derek had agreed to marry Sandra and that was good enough for him.

    "Yes. He did. Now we have to fix a date for them," his aunt said.

    "I can''t believe he agreed because he didn''t want Evelyn to be fired. Did Derek tell you anything about his rtionship with her? I''m beginning to think there is more to it than just the interview," Michael said and his aunt exchanged a look with her husband, both silently agreeing not to tell Michael that Derek had said he was in love with Evelyn.

    "I don''t care if she isn''t the one that put out the news about us. I will never let that shameless girl anywhere near my son. Not after what she did to you," she said and Michael nodded in agreement. "Who knows? Perhaps she ended things with me so she coulde for Derek," Michael said, wanting to add fuel to the fire.

    "Too bad for her, because I''m not going to let that happen. Why don''t you work out the details of his date with Sandra and let me know when it is time so I can have him meet with her?" His aunt said, and Michael nodded.

    "I will do just that," Michael promised.

    After dinner, Michael left the house, and as he drove away, he couldn''t help feeling frustrated, scared, and aplished at the same time.

    He was frustrated because Evelyn didn''t lose her job as he had wanted, and it also seemed like Derek still trusted her. Scared because he was worried that Derek might already be suspecting him, and aplished because Derek had agreed to marry Sandra.

    Thinking of his fears, he decided to call Derek and see if he could find out what Derek was thinking and know if he was a suspect.

    "Hey, Rek," Michael greeted casually when the call connected.

    "Hey, Mike, What''s up?" Derek asked, sounding equally cool,

    "I''m okay. I was at your office to check on you today but your secretary said you left early. Is everything okay?" he asked curiously

    "Yeah. Just had some stuff to handle but I''m good," Derek said and Michael couldn''t help feeling relieved when he saw that Derek didn''t seem to be suspecting him of anything.

    "Cool. I just left the house now, and aunt told me you asked them not to fire Evelyn because you don''t think she''s guilty," Michael said naturally.

    "Yeah. I know she''s your ex, but that doesn''t mean she doesn''t deserve the benefit of the doubt," Derek said and Michael sighed.

    "Are you at the hotel?" Michael asked, wanting to see Derek face to face.

    "Yes. I''m at the lounge. Derek replied. "Want to join me?" he asked with a smirk knowing that Michael was asking so he coulde over.

    "Sure, I''ll be there soon," he said before hanging up, certain now that Derek wasn''t suspecting him and had probably told his parents all he had said just to save Evelyn.

 Chapter 57

    When Michael arrived at the hotel lounge, he walked up to Derek when he found him sitting at a corner table, nursing a drink.

    Derek looked up a

    and when he saw Michael approaching, he smiled as he took a sip from his ss, his expression friendly.

    As Michael sat down, he tried to gauge Derek''s mood. "What''s up? Why are you here drinking alone?" he asked, pretending to be concerned.

    Derek shrugged, taking a sip of his drink. "I just need to clear my head. It''s been a long day," Derek said easily.

    "Why were you at my office earlier?" Derek asked, wondering if Michael had gone there to take out the bug.

    He had phoned his secretary earlier to find out if Michael had entered his office at any point in his absence the previous week, and she had told him that Michael had been to his to submit some files earlier on the day he told Evelyn about his adoption. That had been the confirmation he needed.

    "I wanted to find out if you were still mad at me, considering the way you left the party it night," Michael said, and Derek sighed.

    "Last night! I can''t believe it was just yesterday. It feels like a week has passed already." Derek said, running his fingers through his hair.

    "I''m really sorry I kept everything away from you..."

    "Tve moved on from that, Michael I really don''t want to hear about it anymore. But I''m curious about something else," Derek said and Michael''s heart skipped a beat. "What?" Michael asked as he looked at him curiously.

    "What exactly is going on between Evelyn and Sandra? Why did she treat Sandra that way at the party?" he asked and Michael leaned in, eager to spin his tale.

    "Evelyn has always hated Sandra and I think it got worse because she remained friends with me after all this while. Can you believe that she returned after all these years but wouldn''t return home to her family because she believes they betrayed her by remaining close to me," he said and Derek''s brows pulled together.

    "Evelyn is that kind of person?" Derek asked, feeling disgusted by what Michael was saying. Although he didn''t know everything about Evelyn, he knew she wasn''t that kind of person

    Michael felt a rush of satisfaction as he saw the disgust on Derek''s face. He was pleased to see that he was getting through to him.

    "Looks can be deceptive you know," Michael said, and Derek nodded.

    "But why does she not want them to be friendly with you? What really made her call off your wedding! Did you do something? Derek asked and Michael scowled at the memory.

    "I wish I did. I did nothing but love her and be faithful to her. What did I get in return? Infidelity. Betrayal. Humiliation. While we were all worried and searching everywhere for her, she was busy making love to another man. Do you know what hurts me the most? I saw the signs..."

    "What signs?" Derek cut in curiously.

    "The cologne. The same male cologne she was reeking of that morning when she came back. I''ve smelt it on her several times when she went out There was this guy she imed was her friend. That was his cologne. I always thought they were just friends but when she returned that morning reeking of him, I knew I had been made a fool of, he said and Derek shook his head in disbelief at the lies.

    "Seriously? Evelyn did that! Did you confront the guy?" Derek asked and Michael shook his head.

    "I wanted to, but I haven''t seen him since then. Who knows? Maybe she eloped with him," Michael said and Derek nodded.Content ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Perhaps if he hadn''t been Evelyn''s so-called lover, he would have bought the story, but he knew for a fact that he was the one with Evelyn that night and his cologne then was a gift customized specially for him by a friend who made perfumes. That made it impossible to have the smell on

    someone else.

    *If I may ask, did anything happen a day before the wedding! Did you both fight? Did she lose a loved one? It''s possible that something might have... Michael shook his head before Derek could finish. "No. Nothing of the sort happened. Everything was perfect. We even spoke over the phone and she sounded very fine. I have no idea why she decided to wait until that day to do what she did. Evelyn is a maniptive bitch!"

    "I guess she has always been a cheater then?" he asked and Michael nodded.

    It was heartbreaking for me especially since I gave her my all. I loved her so much, Rek, Michael sad and gulped his drink, pretending to he feeling hurt just by talking about her.

    Everything that Michael told him just confirmed that Michael was indeed a liar. There was more to the story and he was going to find out all it one way or the other, Derek told himself as he sipped from his drink.

    "It''s okay. Let''s stop talking about her. Why don''t you tell me about Sandra inatzad! I''m sure you must have heard from my Mom that I''ve arred marry her," he said and Michael couldn''t help his smile Hearing Derek say he was nning to marry Sandra proved to him that Derek was still oblivious to the fact that there was a bug in his office and that he was the one behind everything "Speaking about your Moon, why did you ask your parents not to use Evelyn fired You realize that sha Michael asked now that he was sure he wasn''t a suspect and Derek would arvower has question. leserve your mercy, don''t you?

    Derek turned to Michael, his expression unreadable. "Evelyn wasn''t respemuble for the release of the news," he wad and Mi

    "If she wasn''t, then who was behind it? Did you tell someone else about it?" Michael aked and Derek shook his heart

    "I didn''t. But I know Evelyn isn''t behind it. I''m very sure of it. I know you are still mad at her for what she did to you, beat Didn''t thank that i mnough reason for us to make her pay for a crime she did notmit." Derek said and Michael frowned.

    "How can you be so sure she isn''t behind it Mind you I''m not saying this because I want her to pray for a crime the did notmi

    curious to know why you seem so convinced of her innocence, Michael said, and Derek shringeri

    "We signed a nondisclosure agreement before we started, Derek said and Michael''s heart skipped a beat

    "That doesn''t mean she couldn''t have

    "It does. She had been very faithful to every single rule of mur agreement even when it wain''tenient and the didn''t want to. Sheint Frelih sa want to nun everything and her chances at an exclusive interview over such a sectet. And even if the wanted to, she could have waited un

    the interview to release it not now," Derek sand and Michael paused for a moment.

    it seem like Evelyn was the rul

    Perhaps it was best to stop insisting that Evelyn was behind it. I might look suspicious if he continued to make it see

    That son of makes sense. Who could have done it then!"

    "I don''t know yet, but I n to find out. And when I do, I will make sure they pay for all this me" Derek promised.

    "Well, let me know if I can help you in any way," Michael said and Derek smiled.

    "Sure, I will. I know I can always count on you. Thank you," Derek said, pping has on the back

    "So, about Sandra, do you really n to marry her, or did you just say that to get Evelyn off the hook for the time being? Michael asked suspiciously

    "Even though we didn''t get to talk at the party, she made quite an impression on me. I''m interested in her, he said and Michael smiled.

    "She''s something, isn''t she?" He asked and Derek nodded.

    "Yeah. She is Derek agreed

    "Unlike Evelyn, Sandra is everything you could want in a woman. If I wasn''t too heartbroken by what Evelyn did, I would''ve gone for her but then again, apart from the fact that she''s kind and loyal, she has a thing for you, Michael said and Derek russed a brow

    "Me" he asked and Muharl nodded.

    "How We arent close and I think the only time I''ve seen her apart from at the party was when she came to ask for an interview with can she like me? Derek asked with a confused frown.

    "Well, she has heard a lot about you from me. Besides, what Lady wouldn''t want a man like you? Michael asked

    d Derek nodded.

    "I guess that means we will get along really well. So, what the can you tell me about her I mean specifics. Things I need to know to win her heart" Derek wish and Michael smiled as he continued to sing Samfra''s princi

    Derek listened, asionally nodding and at the same time, Evelyn''s words about Michael and Sandra working together yed in his bend as be kept asking himself what then big n was

    When Michael Enished. Derek smiled at him. "Thanks, Mike. I''m already looking forward to seeing her auf geting to know her

    with Sandra but what he couldn''t understand was what Michael mos na gans if he

    $3.07 PM

    indeed married Sandra.

    A couple of minutester, Michael left the lounge, feeling triumphant. He had seeded in nting more doubt in Derek''s mind about Evelyn and had properly watered the ground for Sandra What he needed to do now was find a way to get the bug out of Derek''s office before Derek or anyone else would discover it

 Chapter 58

    The next day, Derek walked into his office earlier than usual, his mind set on one thing- installing a security camera in his office.

    Seeing how Michael had been so interested in knowing why he thought Evelyn wasn''t the culprit, he could tell that Michael was thinking he had not seen the bug he nted in his office yet.

    He had a feeling that now that Michael had gotten what he wanted and had seeded in getting Evelyn away from him, Michael would soon retum to remove the bug in order to get rid of evidence of foul y. He couldn''t let that happen. He needed proof. A definitive proof that Michael was the one behind the scandal. One he can present to his parents and wouldn''t have to exin further for them to understand. His chat with Michael the previous night had given him enough reasons to agree with Evelyn that Michael and Sandra were up to something and if he could show his parents proof of Michael''s treachery, they would get the whole picture.

    The moment he got in, he temporarily deactivated the bug in his office and no sooner had he settled down before the man he had contacted for the job arrived. They got to work and Derek ensured that the camera was hidden away from view and angled to capture his office perfectly.

    After connecting it to his phone and testing the live feed to ensure it was working properly. Derek dismissed the technician.

    As he took a seat behind his desk, having aplished his mission, Derek''s mind drifted to Evelyn and he rubbed the bridge of his nose.

    Over the past few weeks, he had grown used to her presence in his office- The way she scowled and red at him whenever he said something inappropriate, the way she hid her smiles when he said or did something amusing, the sound of her voice whenever they discussed, the way she asionally nced up at him with those intense green eyes that spoke volumes without saying a word, her smile and how she''d try to keep him off her.

    Derek found himself missing all of that now. He missed her so much and was determined to handle Michael as fast as possible so he could have Evelyn back to his side where she belonged. He wondered if she was at the office and and if she was thinking about him and missed working with

    him too.

    He needed to talk to someone. He wished his best friend, Ethan, who was around. Ethan, who was a sailor was away in the sea, and he had no idea when he would be back. Taking a deep breath, Derek forced himself to focus on work, but just as he turned on his system, his office door burst open.

    Derek raised his head to re at whoever was at the door for walking in without knocking, but his scowl transformed into a smile when he saw it was just the person he needed. Ethan his best friend.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    be damned if it isn''t the Pirate himself!" Derek eximed as he stood up to greet his best friend.

    Ethan, looking rugged and weathered from his three months at sea, strode into the office with a wide grin on his face. "Hey, buddy! Why do you look like you are about to cry from joy because I''m here?" Derek''s smile transformed into full-blownughter as they exchanged a hearty handshake and a p on the back.

    "You might not believe this, but I was just thinking of you before you opened the door, Derek said and Ethan chuckled as he dropped into the chair opposite Derek''s desk.

    "What exactly were you thinking about?" He asked as he watched Derek go around to get into his seat.

    "I was wishing you were here. I just really needed someone to talk to, Derek said and Ethan shook his head.

    "You know, this is the reason you need a woman in your life. We should get you a wife soop. It''s high time you stopped pining for your mystery woman of six years ago, Ethan said and Derek smiled. "What if I told you I''ve found her?" Derek asked and Ethan raised a brow

    "You''re kidding, right?" Ethan asked and Derekughed.

    "I''m not. Give me a moment to ask my secretary to push back my appointments and I''ll bring you up to date with all that''s happening." Derek said as he picked up his phone to give his secretary a call. "Do you want something! Coffee?" Derek asked Ethan who was scanning the office.

    "Yes, please," Ethan said and after instructing his Secretary to get them coffee and push back his appointment, Derek focused on Ethan. SKUQ MM

    "So, how are you doing? How is work? What''s.."

    "We can talk about thatter. I''m more interested in your news," Ethan said, and Derek chuckled thinking he was talking about Evelyn.

    "Her name is Evel."

    "Not that. I got inst night and came to see you this early because my brother told me about the news of your adoption being made public and I wanted to check on you. What''s up with that? Ethan asked and Derek rubbed his eyes,

    "Well, it''s all rted. It''s connected to her," Derek exined and paused when his secretary y came to serve the coffee.

    After she left. Derek went on to fill Ethan in on the situation with Evelyn, Michael, his parents desire for him to marry Sandra, and the security camera he had just installed.

    Ethan listened intently, his eyes narrowing as he processed the information. "Wow! This all sounds like something out of a movie," Ethan said, and Derek nodded

    "Yeah. I''m d you''re here. How long will you be staying this time?" Derek asked and Ethan shrugged.

    "A month hopefully," he said and Derek smiled

    "That''s a relief," Derek said and Ethan held his gaze.

    I''ve got your back, mate. Don''t worry too much. We''ll get to the bottom of this and expose whatever Michael is scheming." Ethan promised.

    "Thanks, man. I''m just so d you''re here right now!

    "You''ve said that already." Ethan said with a chuckle, "Anyway, I''m d you finally met your mysterydy and we now know who she is. Why don''t you tell me more about her, huh?" Ethan asked with a grin. Derek''s face warmed up as he thought about Evelyn. "She''s...different. Smart, feisty, and beautiful. I miss her, Ethan. I need to get her back."

    Ethan nodded, a knowing glint in his eye. Tim sure she wille back to you after everything has been resolved. She is probably staying away because you are Michael''s cousin. I have a feeling Michael did something to make her call off the wedding, and maybe her stepsister is involved too, Ethan said thoughtfully as he sipped from his coffee.

    Derek nodded, "Yeah. I think so too."

 Chapter 59

    Evelyn stared nkly at the document on herputer screen, trying to focus on work to no avail.

    She had too many thoughts running through her mind at the same time, and the most frustrating of all was the fact that she missed Derek despite all that was happening.

    No matter how many times she tried to talk some sense to herself and remind herself of all the reasons why she couldn''t be with Derek, nothing seemed to work

    Her thoughts kept drifting to Derek and all the different ways he tried to seduce her and challenge her into making decisions she wished she never did.

    The way he''d hold her gaze with his intense blue eyes, and let their fingers brush ever so lightly. Most especially she remembered how he had made love to her a few days ago and made her forget everything else.

    She couldn''t deny the strong force of attraction between them, even though she knew it was all a very bad and dangerous idea.

    "Too much is going on. Evie, you shouldn''t be thinking about him," Evelyn told herself with a sigh as she pushed her seat back and stood up.

    She walked over to the window hoping the view would distract her and help her clear her mind. She needed to focus on her work, not on Derek or theplicated feelings she had for him. There was too much at stake, and she couldn''t risk them for some silly infatuation.

    She didn''t know how long she stood there until she heard the buzz of her phone on the desk and she walked over to pick it up and see who was calling

    She felt a pang of guilt when she checked the caller ID and saw it was Margaret, her friend and neighbor back in Hu.

    She had missed several calls from Maggie in the weeks since she arrived, and each time she told herself she would call back but she never did.

    Taking a deep breath, Evelyn received the call, "Hello, Maggie, It''s been a while!" Evelyn greeted cheerfully as she settled back in her chair.

    "That''s because you''ve not been taking my calls or returning them, Maggie pointed out.

    "You''re right. I''m sorry. I''ve been so busy with work and trying to settle in since I got here," she said apologetically.

    "I figured. I''ve missed you, Evelyn. How''s everything going over there? Have you settled in now? How''s Sammy doing?" Margaret asked with a smile.

    "She''s good as always," Evelyn said, a smile tugging at her lips as she thought of her daughter. "How about you? How''s everything going?"

    "Oh, you know, just the usual craziness with Josh and the twins. Wanted to check on you and see how you''re settling in. I miss you so much," she said and Evelyn smiled,

    "I''m fine, and I miss you too," Evelyn assured her.

    "So, have you

    you been able to get the interview!" Margaret asked curiously.

    Evelyn sighed, "It''s a long story, Maggie," she said and Margaret raised a brow.

    "Do you want to tell me about it?" Margaret asked and Evelyn nodded.

    Margaret had been the first friend she had when she got to Hu six years ago and although it had taken quite some time for her to open up to anyone again after the betrayal from Sandra and Michael, she had told Samantha about Derek and the fact that her pregnancy had been the result of a one night stand with a man she didn''t know.

    "Yeah." Evelyn said, before going ahead to tell Margaret about meeting Derek again but leaving out the details.

    "You mean Sammy''s Dad is the same guy you''re interviewing?" Margaret asked in disbelief when Evelyn was done.

    "Yeah."

    "This is what hopeless romantics like me call fate or destiny, you know? It can''t be a coincidence that you met him that reunited with him again this way now. Have you told him about Sammy!" Margaret asked and Evelyn sighed.

    way six years ago and

    "No. Dilon''t want to"Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    "Why not? I thought when you made up your mind to return there, you were ready to find Sammy''s father, Margaret cut in.

    "That was before 1 found out he is Michael''s cousin," Evelyn said and Margaret snorted.

    "So, what! He is Samantha''s father and I believe that''s the most important thing you should consider instead of focusing on his rtionship with your ex." Margaret said and Evelyn shook her head.

    "I don''t want things to be moreplicated and difficult for me than they already are. I just want to live quietly with Sam..."

    Wh

    hy should you live quietly? I thought when you made up your mind to return there, you were i or hide from them now?" Margaret asked with disapproval.

    to run

    ready to face everything. Why do you want to

    "I''m not running or hiding. I just don''t want to expose Sammy to all that drama. If Sammy''s father didn''t happen to be Michael''s cousin I would have exposed everything, but now it''s all tooplicated so I have to be more careful for Sammy''s sake," Evelyn said weakly.

    "Hmm. If you say so. By the way, I was at the hospital the other day for my appointment and I ran into Dr Liam," Margaret said, changing the subject.

    Evelyn found herself smiling at the mention of Liam. "You did? How is he doing?" Evelyn asked with interest

    "He seemed okay. We chatted for a while and he kept talking about you as usual and expressing how worried he was that you moved so far away." Margaret said and Evelyn smiled as she remembered how hard he tried to convince her to not return to Ludus.

    "Liam is such a nice guy. You won''t believe he keeps in touch with Samantha even though we haven''t spoken much since I got here." Evelyn said, thinking about how Liam had been by her and Samantha''s side since she was pregnant till now.

    "You do know he''s doing that because he knows that Samantha is the way to your heart, right?" Margaret teased and Evelyn rolled her eyes since this was an argument they had had countless times. "No. He''s doing that because he has been a part of Samantha''s life since birth as my obstetrician and friend," Evelyn said as she always did.

    "I know he likes you, Evelyn.."

    "First you imply that reuniting with Samantha''s father is fate, and now you''re talking about Liam. Choose a struggle, Maggie," Evelyn said, and Margaret giggled.

    "Well, both men have potential. You can be with either of them, just don''t be alone, Evelyn. You deserve to be in love and happy. And well, deserves a father too," Margaret said and Evelyn sighed. Sammy

    "And she also deserves peace. So, tell me, what''s new with you? How''s Josh and the twins? Sammy misses them," Evelyn said, changing the subject. They talked some more and after the conversation ended with a promise to talk more often, Evelyn felt more at ease and got to work.

    Since her return to Ludus, she had forgotten how nice it felt to share her problems with someone, and she was d that Margaret had called and reminded her of it. She didn''t have to do any of this alone

 Chapter 60

    Sandra wore a satisfied smile as she drove toward the Golden Lotus Restaurant, where she was meeting Derek''s mother for lunch. Michael had arranged the meeting now that Mrs. Stone had decided to make Sandra her daughter-inw.

    She still couldn''t believe their n was finallying together. Soon enough, she would be marrying Derek Stone, just as she and Michael had nned

    However, as thoughts of their n crossed her mind, Sandra''s smile faltered, reced by a scowl. Michael had informed her that their attempt to have Evelyn fired had failed. It seemed Derek trusted Evelyn more than they anticipated, and he was actively seeking ways to prove her innocence

    The idea that Evelyn was still in the picture, knowing about her and Michael''s rtionship, left Sandra feeling uneasy. Although they had agreed. not to meet at Michael''s ce anymore and to keep theirmunications to the phone, Sandra knew they had to find a way to eliminate Evelyn as a threat. Otherwise, she might expose their affair and ruin everything.

    How could she get rid of Evelyn Sandra mused as her mind raced. She prided herself on being ahead of the game, but now the tables were turning. She needed to neutralize the threat Evelyn posed, and fast.

    The first step was keeping an eye on Evelyn, which meant finding out where she lived and learning the details of her life. Sandra''s eyes narrowed as she recalled that her mother seemed close to Evelyn. Maybe her mother was the key she needed to regain control of the situation.

    Satisfied with her new n, Sandra pushed thoughts of Evelyn from her mind. She needed to focus on making a good impression today.

    Winning over Mrs. Stone was crucial if she wanted to secure her ce in Derek''s life and push Evelyn out for good.

    She believed winning Derek''s heart would be easy; after all, she had always had her way with men. Derek would be no exception-she just needed ess to him, and only his mother could grant her that, Sandra pulled into the parking lot of the Golden Lotus Restaurant, a ce known for its elegance and exclusivity.

    As she stepped out of the car, she reached into the backseat for the gift she had carefully selected for Mrs. Stone-a delicate silk scarf. She knew the older woman would appreciate it, given her known fondness for scarves.

    Taking a deep breath, Sandra smoothed down her dress and made her way into the restaurant.

    A hostess greeted her at the entrance and escorted her t

    er to the private dining area where Mrs. Stone was waiting.

    As Sandra approached the table, Derek''s mother rose to greet her, a warm smile lighting up her face.

    "Sandra, dear, it''s such a pleasure to finally meet you properly," Mrs. Stone said, pulling Sandra into a hug

    "Mrs. Stone, it''s an honor to be here. I brought this for you," Sandra said, handing over the gift.

    "Oh, dear. You didn''t have to." Mrs. Stone said as she received the gift from her.

    "I wanted to. I hope you like it," Sandra said, watching the woman with a smile.

    Mrs. Stone''s eyes lit up as she unwrapped the scarf. "Oh, Sandra, this is lovely. You have such exquisite taste," she said with approval.

    "I''m d you like it. I thought it would suit you" Sandra replied, pleased with her reaction

    "It''s perfect. Thank you. Please sit," Mrs. Stone said as she gestured to Sandra to sit down. "I took the liberty to order our real while waiting for you. I hope you don''t mind

    "Not at all," Sandra said as they took their seats.

    As if on cue, the waiters came in with the order, the aroma of the food was tantalizing, and Sandra couldn''t help butment. "The food smells delicious.

    "Trust me, it tastes even better," Mrs. Stone said with a smile.

    The conversation flowed easily as they ate. Sandra was careful to be polite and attentive, listening closely as Mrs. Stone spoke about Derek, their family, and her hopes for his future. Sandra yed her part perfectly, nodding in agreement and adding thoughtfulments when appropriate. She also spoke about her admiration for Derek, and how much she had always looked forward to hearing Michael''s stories of him.

    Mrs. Stone waspletely taken in by Sandra''s act, her smile growing as she listened. "You know, when Michael first suggested matching you and Derek, I was skeptical, considering your close rtionship with her," Mrs. Stone wrinkled her nose with disgust as though she couldn''t stand the

    SOUL PM

    thought of Evelyn.

    Sandra felt a flicker of triumph but kept her expression concerned and bowed her head as she set down her cutlery, "I understand how you feel. I''m very sorry for the troubles and embarrassment my sister has caused your family," she said softly as if torn.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    "You don''t have to apologize for her. I know your family does not approve of her behavior. As a matter of fact, I heard all about her actions at your parents'' anniversary and how she treated you." Mrs Stone said and Sandra looked up at her with tears in her eyes.

    "She was not always this way. I have no idea how she became this sort of person, but the Evelyn I knew was wonderful. I have hope that she will change, Sandra said and Mrs Stone smiled.

    "I can''t believe how sweet and pure-hearted you are to be making excuses for her despite what she did to you. You would make a wonderful wife for Derek, Mrs Stone said with approval.

    Sandra''s heart swelled with satisfaction. Thank you, ma''am. It means a lot to hear you say that."

    "Call me Reba, my dear. You''re going to be my daughter-inw and we are going to get along just fine," she said and Sandra smiled shyly.

    "Thank you, Reba"

    Mrs. Stone studied Sandra for a moment, and then her expression softened. Tell me more about yourself, Sandra,¡±

    Sandra nodded andunched into a well-rehearsed story she had prepared, telling Mrs. Stone all she knew she wanted to hear and painting herself as the perfect daughter-inw,

    As their lunch came to an end, Mrs. Stone reached across the table and patted Sandra''s hand. I''m so d we had this time to get to know each other, Sandra Let''s do this again, perhaps shopping together or at the spa. I''ve always wanted a daughter and I''m d I get to have one when you marry Derek,"

    Sandra smiled warmly, pleased with how well the meeting had gone. Thank you, Reba. I look forward to seeing you again.¡±

    After saying their goodbyes, Sandra walked back to her car, a satisfied smile on her face. The meeting had gone exactly as she hoped. Derek''s mother was now firmly on her side, a major victory.

 Chapter 61

    Evelyn sat at her desk in the spacious office of Empowered Magazine, her fingers hovering over the keyboard as she tried to focus on the article she was editing.

    Although her promotion was not official since she was yet to interview Derek which was the criterion for it, she was working as the acting editor-in-chief. Even though she had only just resumed, she had a mountain of work to get through, with deadlines around the corner and articles demanding her

    attention

    Despite her best efforts to focus on work, her mind kept drifting back to Derek and she found herself staring at her phone often, half-expecting a call or text from him.

    She knew she had no reason to expect him to call since they had nothing important to discuss. Yet she couldn''t stop herself from hoping

    No matter how hard she tried to push thoughts of him out of her mind, and bury herself in her work, it was no use. He lingered in her thoughts, a distraction she just couldn''t seem to shake.

    Get it together, Evelyn, she silently scolded herself, shaking her head as if that would help clear her mind. You have work to do.

    She forced her attention back to the article on her screen, determined to focus. She was still trying to concentrate when her phone rang, startling her.

    Seeing Susan''s name on the screen, she quicklyposed herself and answered.

    "Hi, Susan," Evelyn said, her tone professional, though her mind was still a bit scattered.

    "Evelyn, how''s it going?" Susan''s voice was brisk, as always, but there was a hint of warmth that put Evelyn at ease.

    "Good, just working through some edits." Evelyn replied, sitting up straighter as though Susan could see her.

    "That''s what I like to hear, Susan said, a smile evident in her tone. "Listen, I wanted to talk to you about that interview with Derek Stone. Have you reached out to him? Or did he talk to you about it? You''re still doing it, right?"

    Evelyn felt her stomach tighten at the mention of Derek''s name. "Yes. We talked about it."

    "Great! Have you set a date yer?"N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    "Not yet," she admitted. "I discussed it with his secretary and she mentioned that this week would be very busy for him, so I was thinking next week might be better."

    "Next week, huh?" Susan sounded thoughtful. "Well, I suppose that''s fine, but make sure to lock it down soon. We don''t want anything toe up again and have him change his mind. I''m sure you know how important this is, especially after the trouble

    "I understand. I''ll make sure to get a firm date from him" Evelyn said, thinking that would be a good reason to reach out to him.

    "Great" Suson said, her tone brightening. "I know you''ll handle it. Just keep me posted"

    "I will," Evelyn promised.

    After a few more words, they ended the call, and Evelyn set her phone down on the desk, staring at it as if it held all the answers.

    She knew she needed to call Derek, but the thought filled her with a strange of anticipation and anxiety,

    She wasn''t sure she was ready to face him again, especially not after the way theirst encounter had left her feeling so conflicted.

    But this was work, she told herself with a sigh and picked up her phone, scrolling through her contacts until she reached Derek''s name. Her finger hovered over the call button, but she hesitated.

    She was still debating whether to call him or call his secretary instead so she couldmunicate with him on her behalf when her thoughts were interrupted by the sudden ringing of her phone again.

    She nced at the screen and smiled when she saw Rayna''s name shing. First Margaret, now Rayna. It seemed like everyone was reaching out today, she mused.

    "To what do I owe this pleasure Evelyn asked warmly as she answered the call.

    Raynaughed, -To friendship, of course. How are you doing? I hope I''m not interrupting work?" Kayna''s voice was as cheerful as ever, bringing a

    genuine smile to Evelyn''s face.

    "No, you''re not interrupting anything. How are you doing?"

    "I''m a perfect blend of stressed out and bored. I need some time off. If I had a man, this is the time I''d want to take off with him to some exotic corner of the world and just rx and have sex and repeat the circle over and over again," Rayna said and Evelynughed.

    "What do you mean rx and have sex?" Evelyn asked with amusement.

    "Go swimming, have sex in the pool. Sunbathe, go back to our room to have sex. Go see a movie, make out in the cinema, and go back home to have sex, go club.."

    "Okay. Okay. I get the picture. Thanks," Evelyn cut inughing.

    "Unfortunately no guy in the picture you got," Rayna said and they bothughed.

    "Why don''t you just sign up on a dating site or something?" Evelyn suggested.

    "I tried that once but it was a disaster. As a matter of fact, I''m traumatized by it," Rayna said and Evelynughed.

    -Was it that bad?

    What happened?" She asked and Rayna shook her head.

    "I''ll tell you about it after I get therapy," she said and Evelyn giggled.

    "Anyway, I was thinking we should meet up. How about I swing by your ceter?" Rayna suggested.

    Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat. She didn''t want Rayna to know about Samantha yet. She just wasn''t ready to exin that part of her life to Rayna or anyone else yet,

    She knew that Rayna was friends with Sandra too, and she could hardly ask Rayna to stop being friends with Sandra for her sake. If Rayna knew about Samantha, there was every possibility that she might innocently tell Sandra about it and then just like that it would get to Michael and Derek would get to know about Samantha

    "Oh, I would love that Evelyn began, searching for an excuse. "But I''ve been so busy with work that I''m yet to set up my ce. It is a mess, and I wouldn''t want you to see it like that. How about Ie by your bakery instead?"

    "Ugh, I''m so tired of that ce. I took the day off. I need to escape," Rayna groaned, making Evelynugh.

    "Okay, how about we meet somewhere else then?" Evelyn suggested, feeling relieved to steer the conversation away from her home.

    "Somewhere else, huh? How about a club? We could use a night out!" Rayna''s voice was full of excitement, but Evelyn didn''t share in her

    excitement

    She couldn''t go to a club, especially not on a weekday. It wasn''t just the fact that she had work in the morning- there was also Samantha to consider. The idea of leaving her daughter at night while she went out to party was unthinkable.

    "A club? On a weeknight?" Evelyn tried to sound casual, but she could already feel the guilt creeping in

    "Why not? It''s not like we will be there till Dawn. All we have to do is put on sexy clothes and hang out there for an hour or two. We are never going to meet any men if we don''t go out, Eviel Don''t do it for yourself. Do it for your lonely old friend," Rayna said and Evelyn couldn''t help but chuckle at her friend''s persistence.

    "I really can''t tonight. How about we do it this weekend instead?" She said with a sigh.

    "Weekend, huh? I''ll hold you to that," Rayna said, her tone yful but firm. "You better not bail on me, Evelyn. We both need a night out."

    "I won''t bail," Evelyn promised, knowing full well that she probably needed the hangout too.

    "It''s a date then. And I have just the perfect ce in mind," Rayna said, clearly pleased. "Will Sandra be joining us? She sort of felt left out when I told her we were together at the bakery thest time," Rayna said, and Evelyn winced.

    "T''d rather it''s just the both of us. Can you not mention our outings to her?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna paused.

    "Is there a problem? Are you both fighting?" Rayna asked and Evelyn sighed

    "It''splicated, and I really can''t talk about it. But I need you to promise me that you won''t discuss me with her or tell her about our hangouts," Evelyn said and Rayna smiled

    "Sure. You know you''ve always been any favorite friend, anyway," Rayna said and Evelyn smiled, relieved that Rayna wasn''t asking any questions.

    1:08 PM

    After the call ended, she leaned back in her seat and her thoughts drifted to Sandra and the stunt she had pulled at the anniversary party, She couldn''t help but wonder if that was all Sandra had up her sleeves or if she should be expecting more,

    Thinking of Sandra her thoughts circled back to Derek and she sighed. It seemed like all her problems were centered on Derek.

    She let out a frustrated sigh as she looked up at the ceiling as if the answers to everything that bothered her were hidden in the panels above.

    She sighed when her thoughts drifted back to her conversation with Margaret earlier. It had left her feeling guilty about hiding Samantha from

    Derek

    It was true that one of the reasons she had returned to Ludus had been to find Samantha''s father- not because she wanted a rtionship with him, but because she wanted to find out if he would be interested

    in meeting and knowing his daughter since that was the fair and logical thing to do, but after finding out who he was that n had changed.

    Although she tried to convince herself that she was doing it for Samantha''s sake to protect her from the drama that the revtion would bring. deep down she knew she was doing it to

    to protect herself.

    What would be do if she told him about Samantha She mused and then smiled since she could imagine Derek insisting on being a part of their Tres. That was just the kind of person he was.

    She allowed herself to daydream for some time, thinking about being with Derek and Samantha as a family. She could imagine how happy Samantha would be and imagine them getting along. She was also thing she wanted was toe between him and his parents whom he loved so much.

    start enough to know his family wouldn''t let something like that happen. Not after how she ended things with Michael And thest

    Shaking her head she decided to face reality and get back to work. Derek was never going to be hers, so there was no re meless daydreams

    reason to torment herself with

 Chapter 62

    the day ended, it was past his closing hours, and he was drained, both mentally and physically,

    By the time Derek''sst meeting g for the

    As he drove back to his hotel, his thoughts wandered to the CCTV he had nted in his office earlier that morning and he couldn''t help but wonder if Michael had gone into his office at any point in time.

    The moment he got into his suite, Derek didn''t bother to take off his clothes first. He sat on the couch and pulled out his phone to check the recorded feed from the security camera in his office.

    It didn''t take long before his suspicions were confirmed. Michael had indeed returned to remove the bug, providing Derek with the proof he needed to expose him.

    Although he had suspected that Michael was behind it, having evidence of Michael''s betrayal made his blood boil with anger.

    Needing to calm himself so that he could think straight, he rose and took off his clothes as he headed for the bathroom.

    As the water flowed over him, Derek told himself that instead of being angry he should be happy that he now had the evidence to prove Evelyn''s innocence.

    His thoughts drifted to Evelyn and he wondered how she was doing. He missed her and needed to talk to her to hear her voice again.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    secretory because

    His secretary had told him that Evelyn called to discuss the details of the interview with her. He knew she had reached out to his sec she was avoiding him, but he wasn''t going to let her do so for much longer.

    Now that he had the evidence to prove her innocence, things could return to normal between them and he would find a way to get his parents to approve of her.

    After he freshened up, he grabbed his phone and dialed Evelyn''s number. It rang twice before she picked up.

    "Hello, Mr. Stone," Evelyn greeted curtly the moment she picked up, and Derek smiled when he heard her voice. "Hello, Eve. How are you doing? Derek asked pleasantly.

    Evelyn raised a brow, "Is there a reason you called?" She asked aloofly, wanting him to go straight to the point.

    Although she was happy to hear from him, she didn''t want to make things harder for herself than it already was by keeping in close contact with him when she knew how much effect he had on her emotions. "Yes. But before I say anything I want to know how you''re doing," Derek said stubbornly

    "How I''m doing has nothing to do with you. Please.."

    "You can either tell me how you''re doing so I can get to the reason I called or you can keep ranting, I love hearing you talk either way. How was work today!" Derek asked, and Evelyn sighed.

    "I''m fine. Work was fine. Are you calling because you heard from your secretary?" She asked, wanting to make sure they were only going to talk

    work.

    "Heard what?" Derek asked even though he knew what she meant. He just wanted to hear her talk.

    "We decided on a date for the interview. Does next Friday work for yo

    "you?" she asked and he nodded even though she couldn''t see him,

    "That works for me. It would have been the end of our monthlong arrangement," he said with a wistful smile.

    "Yeah. So. Why did you call?" Evelyn asked, not wanting to dwell on anything else.

    "I miss you, Eve. The office is not the same without you. I could barely focus on work today," he said and Evelyn sighed inwardly since she understood what he meant.

    "Is that the reason you called?" She asked, trying to sound harsh.

    Ethan ca

    caine around today," Derek said conversationally.

    "Your sailor best friend?" Evelyn asked before she could stop herself.

    "You remember him," Derek said with a pleased smile since he had only casually mentioned Ethan to her once or twice

    "I was quite happy to see him," Derek said and Evelyn sighed.

    "Good for you," she said in an indifferent tone, "I''m going to hang up now if that''s all," Evelyn said but before she could do that he spoke up.

    "I called to tell you that I got the evidence to prove that Michael was behind everything," he said and smiled smugly when he heard the sharp intake of breath on the other end

    "What evidence? How did you manage to get it!" she asked excitedly.

    "I had a security camera installed in my office. It captured Michael when he came into my office during my absence today to remove the bug." Derek exined, a note of triumph in his voice. "Oh, my god!" Evelyn eximed, feeling overwhelmed with relief.

    "I''m going to show it to my parents tomorrow and have them deal with him. And then..."

    "No. Derek. Don''t," Evelyn cut in before he could finish.

    Derek frowned. "Why not? We need to prove your innocence and punish him for his action," he said and Evelyn sighed.

    "I know. I understand you want to help clear my name and punish Michael but trust me, a single footage won''t be enough," she said reasonably.

    "What do you mean?"

    "I know Michael, and although I don''t know what he ns to do, I don''t think he is done yet. I think Michael has bigger ns and the best way to know what he''s up to is by not letting him know you know he was behind the interview. He can easily twist the situation and even though you won''t fall for it, your parents could. And if he seeds, you''ll lose the chance to find out what he''s really after." Evelyn exined patiently and Derek considered her words, realizing she had a point.

    "I get your point. This is so frustrating," Derek said with a sigh.

    Evelyn smiled, understanding how he felt since she had felt that way for the past six years. "I understand. But it''s for your good. If you''re patient enough, you might uncover the full extent of his ns." She said, reasoning that if Derek was able to expose Michael and Sandra she wouldn''t have to do anything.

 Chapter 63

    at he had

    Derek sighed deeply, feeling frustrated that he had to keep ying along with Michael, and also feeling thankful that Evelyn was being his voice of

    reasons at the moment.

    "Thanks for looking out for me when you should be more focused on proving your innocence," he said, and she shook her head.

    "I''m not doing it for you. I''m doing it for myself," Evelyn said, causing Derek''s thoughts to drift to Sandra and how he was now convinced that she was working with Michael.

    He hesitated before speaking again. "There''s something else I think you should know, but I''m not sure if I should tell you," he said and Evelyn raised a brow.

    "What is it!"

    "Mommy, I want..." Evelyn raised a hand to her lips to silence Samantha, who had just run into the bedroom, and she quickly muted the call.

    "I''m on the phone darling. I''ll be right out," she said, forcing a smile even though her heart was racing.

    "Who was that?" Derek asked, since he had heard Samantha.

    "I have some guests," she lied, "What did you want to tell me?" Evelyn asked, hoping that Derek would focus on their conversation and forget about what he had heard.

    "Michael convinced my parents to set me up with Sandra. They want me to marry her," Derek confessed, his voice tinged with frustration.

    Hearing this, Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat. She felt a pang of something she didn''t want to acknowledge as jealousy.

    Was that the n? Were they nning to get Sandra to marry Derek for his inheritance as they had nned to do to her? Evelyn mused.

    "Eve!" Derek called when she didn''t say anything

    "What are you going to do about it? Are you going to marry hert Evelyn asked in a low voice.

    "No. We both know I''m not interested in marrying Sandra. I only agreed to it because that was the condition for you not to get fired. I was hoping that by exposing Michael quickly I would be able to avoid it, but now that I can''t expose him yet, I think it''s best I use her to find out what they are. really up to," he said and Evelyn sighed softly,

    "Well, if that''s The

    with Sandra

    case, you

    should be careful. They''re both very cunning and good at pretending, she said, trying not to think about Derek being

    "You don''t have to worry, Eve. I am never going to fall for Sandra. You''re the

    "I''m nothing, Derek. The only thing between us is the interview and once the interview is done, we will go our separate ways," she said firmly.

    Derek''s clenched jaw. He was determined to prove her wrong. He wanted to tell her that she belonged with him and he wouldn''t let her go, but before he could say anything she hung up abruptly.

    Evelyn was so damned stubborn, he mused, scowling at his phone, Just as he threw the phone on his bed, it rang again and he quickly picked it up hoping Evelyn was calling back.

    He sighed when he saw that it was his mother calling and he received the call. "Hello, Mom, Derek answered, trying to sound more excited than he felt

    Reba frowned when she heard the tiredness in his voice. "You sound exhausted, darling Did you overwork yourself?" Reba asked, her voice filled with concern.

    "It was a long day, but I managed to get through it. How are you doing, Mom! How was your day?" Derek asked conversationally.

    was good, darling. Actually better than good. I had lunch with Sandra today," Reba said, sounding excited.

    "Oh. I see, Derek said in a voice devoid of emotion.

    wo will make a beautiful couple. Reba said with a pleased

    "She''s such a lovely girl, Derek. Michael was absolutely right about her. I think you two smile and Derek raised an eyebrow.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    When he saw his mother''s call, he had expected her to mention Sandra at some point, but hearing her sing praises of Sandra made him wary and even more exhausted than he already was..

    "If you''re already singing her praises this way, then she must have really won you over. I''m looking forward to meeting her now," he replied lightly and his motherughed.

    "Yes! That''s precisely why I called. Reba said happily and Derek groaned inwardly.

    "Is it? Here I was thinking you called because you wanted to hear your son''s lovely voice?" he joked, and his motherughed.

    "I did call to hear your voice, but I also called to let you know that we have picked a date for your date. It''s going to be on Friday. I have instructed your secretary to make the necessary reservation," she said and Derek sighed inwardly, knowing he had little say in the matter.

    "Okay, Mom. I will be there," he said and Reba smiled.

    "I want you to make an effort with her. Derek. I don''t want you to marry her simply because I''m asking you to. I believe she is a nice girl and she will make you happy. Don''t just write her off. Please give her a chance. Get to know her and I''m sure you''ll fall in love with her.

    "If she''s as nice as everyone says, I''m sure we will get along pretty well. You don''t have to worry," Derek replied, keeping his tone neutral and his

    mother smiled.

    After asking after his father and making small talk, Derek hung up.

    As hey on his bed thinking about his conversation with Evelyn and his mother, one question popped into his head.

    What was the exact

    rtionship between Michael and Sandra? Why would Sandra take Michael''s side over her sister''s side after their break up? Was ita natural step-sisters rivalry, or was there something else!

    Picking up his phone, Derek called Ethan to request the number of one of his investigative detective friends. After he got it, he dialed the number and set up a meeting.

    With Michael and Sandra, he knew he needed to be careful. He wasn''t sure yet what the n was, but he nned to stay one step ahead of them. And to do that, he needed someone to keep a close watch on Michael''s movements.

    He nned to find out what Michael was up to no matter the cost, and when he did, he wasn''t going to let him get away with his schemes.

 Chapter 64

    After hisst appointment on Friday evening. Derek headed directly for the restaurant where he was to meet with Sandra for their dinner.

    He wished the date had been set at an earlier time and not after the close of work, so he could easily leave after thirty minutes or an hour.

    Though the date wasn''t until 5 p.m., Derek had decided to arrive there early. He wasn''t there out of eagerness but just because he wanted to have control of the situation.

    He wanted to be fully prepared for the evening, knowing well that this date was more than just to fulfill his end of the bargain with his mom but also a step toward uncovering Michael''s plots.

    As he sat there, sipping on a ss of water and waiting for Sandra. Derek decided to give Ethan a call but before he could dial Ethan''s line, his call

    came in

    Derek received the call with a chuckle, "Why do you always appear or call just when I talk or think about you!"

    Ethan chuckled. "Maybe because you''re in love with me?" he joked and Derek rolled his eyes.

    *Last time I checked, you do not have boobs, and your name isn''t Evelyn," he said causing Ethan tough.

    "Yet you''re always thinking about me," Ethan said dryly. "What are you up to?" he asked and Derek raised a brow

    "I''m at

    at the restaurant waiting for my date to show up," he said and Ethan chuckled.

    "No wonder you were missing me," he said, making Derekugh.

    o to the g

    golf club," Derek suggested.

    "What are you up to tomorrow? Let''s go to

    "Sure. But I was hoping we could hang out at the club tonight. It''s been a while since Ist went clubbing." Ethan said and Derek grinned.

    "Me too. I think I will be needing a drink after this date, Derek said and Ethanughed

    "It might not be so bad. Who knows! You might end up falling hopelessly in love with her," Ethan said and Derek snorted.

    "Not when Evelyn is alive. And even if Evelyn stopped existing, I could never be interested in her step-sister. Anyway, I wanted to call you earlier ''cause I want you to call me at exactly 6 p.m. I don''t want this date to be longer than an hour, Derek said and Ethan chuckled

    "Sure. About our own date tonight, how about you pick me up so we go together?" Ethan suggested.

    "Cool But it''s not a date. Don''t forget to call by 0. Bye, Derek said and hung up when he saw Sandra approaching.

    Derek smiled as he watched her draw closer, his eyes never leaving her. Observing her appearance, Derek couldn''t deny that she was indeed a beautiful woman. But her beauty didn''t interest him since Evelyn was far more beautiful. What he was interested in was the hidden agenda he knew she had.

    Sandra smiled as

    as she saw the way he was

    he was staring at

    at her with interest, and she could swear she saw a spark of lust in his eyes.

    Of course, no man wouldn''t want to have her. Not even Derek Stone was immune to her charms.

    The moment she stopped in front of him, Derek rose to greet her, putting on his most charming smile.

    "I hope I didn''t keep you waiting, Mr Stone," she asked, her voice soft and apologetic.

    "Please, call me Derek. And no, you didn''t keep me waiting. A beautiful woman like you should be waited on Derek said smoothly, putting on his

    best act

    Sandra smiled even more brightly d that he was receptive to her. "Thanks," she said as he pulled out a chair for her.

    "I''ve heard a lot about you, Sandra.. I can call you that, right?" Derek asked as he took his seat, and she nodded. "Please do" she said eagerly.

    "I was going to say, I''ve heard so many wonderful things about you, and it sort of made me anxious about our date so I had to arrive a little early to calm myself so I don''t make a fool of myself," he said and Sandra giggled softly.

    "For real? Do you know how anxious I''ve been about this date? I''ve been walking about all day with a jittery feeling in my belly. I''m d to know Tim not the only one who''s anxious about this date. So, maybe we can both rx together or make a fool of ourselves together, Sandra said and before Derek could respond, a waiter appeared at their side.

    chapier 04

    "Are you familiar with their dishes here!" Derek asked Sandra as she perused

    the

    menu.

    Sandra nodded. "Yes. I''ve been here a couple of times."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    Derek took one nce at the menu and kept it aside with a charming smile. "Then I will trust you with my stomach and have whatever you''re having," he said and Sandra grinned. "Alright then," she said and ordered for the both of them

    As the waiter left, Sandra cleared her throat. "You know, this feels like a dreame true. All these years I''ve heard so much about you and admired you from afar, and now I get to sit with you this way, she said and Derek smiled.

    "Same here. You know, I was hoping to talk to you at the party. Unfortunately, I couldn''t. I''m sorry you had to go through such embarrassment," he said and she waved it off.

    "It''s nothingpared to what you and your family went through," she said, shing him an apologetic smile.

    "Thankfully, everyone has moved on from that now," Derek cut in dismissively as the waiter came with their wine.

    "So, how was your day!" Sandra asked, and Derek told her about his day and Sandra in turn went on to tell him about hers.

    "Why don''t you tell me more about yourself, Sandra? I''ve heard a lot from both my Mom and Michael. Now, I want to hear directly from you Derek said and Sandra smiled as she told him about herself.

    Derek listened attentively as she talked, stopping her to ask questions at intervals, and Sandra soon realized that she was bing more rxed. and was actually enjoying the date.

    She hade, thinking that Derek would be distant and unpleasant, but she was happy to see that she had been wrong.

    They paused their conversation when the waiter returned with their meals and after he had served them and left, Derek urged her to continue as they are

    Derek

    ek smiled as he listened to her. He could tell that she was rxing with him unlike earlier when she had been trying too hard.

    This was exactly

    what he wanted. He wanted her to let down her guard and be free with him.

 Chapter 65

    ?

    Chapter 65

    As dinner progressed, Sandra found herselfughing easily and enjoying the flow of their conversation and Derek''s humor.

    "I think I''ve said enough about me. Why don''t you tell me about yourself? I''d like to know things about you that your Mom and Michael haven''t already told me," she said as she raised her winess to her lips. Derek resisted the urge to nce at his wristwatch even though he knew it was well over an hour already.

    What the heck was wrong with Ethan? What was keeping him from calling? Derek mused in frustration while keeping a smile on his face.

    Not wanting to talk about himself and wanting to stall until Ethan called, Derek decided to steer the conversation in the direction he needed it to go.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

    "I''m pretty sure they''ve told you everything possible about me. But I''m still very curious about you. I''m not satisfied yet," he said and she arched her perfectly shaped brows.

    "What more could you possibly want to know?" She drawled, eyeing him with interest.

    "You are a very interesting woman, Sandra," he said and she giggled.

    "So, I''ve been told," she said with an easy smile.

    Derek leaned back in his chair, adopting a thoughtful expression. "How did you get to know Michael? How did be friends with him? Was it through Evelyn?" He asked, and her smile faltered. "Yeah. I got to know him through Evelyn," she said with a shrug.

    "That makes me even more curious. Why did you choose to remain friends with him after your sister ended things with him that way? Shouldn''t you have taken your sister''s side naturally?" He asked, wanting to know how Sandra perceived Evelyn.

    Sandra smiled, d that she had anticipated this question, "Well, you''re right. Naturally, I would take my sister''s side if she is right. But she isn''t. What she did was wrong, and I''m a person who believes in fairness. Michael didn''t deserve to be treated that way. We also saw how much he cared for her and loved her. She is my sister and we used to be really close, but I just couldn''t take her side. What she did to him is cruel. I couldn''t bring myself to turn my back on him too," she exined and Derek smiled.

    "I guess you know why she did that?" Derek asked and Sandra sighed and looked away.

    "She was cheating on Michael with a friend. I knew it the whole time and I tried talking her out of it. I couldn''t tell Michael about it then. On the day to their wedding, I overheard her telling the guy on the phone that she would visit him. She returned the next day smelling of his cologne," Sandra said, confirming the story Michael had told Derek.

    "You''re such a wonderful soul, Sandra. I can''t see any reason why anyone would hate someone like you," he said and Sandra smiled shyly as she met his gaze again.

    "Tell that to Evelyn," she said with a deep sigh, "I miss our friendship though. I know she has her ws, but I really love Evelyn."

    "You love her even after what she did to you?" Derek asked and Sandra shrugged.

    "How can I not? I''m sure she was mad because she felt like I betrayed her by remaining friends with Michael. But it just doesn''t make sense that I will cut him off when she was the one who ended things, does it?" She asked, and Derek shook his head thoughtfully.

    After hearing all Sandra had said and how she was supporting Michael''s allegations, Derek was certain now that Sandra most likely had a hand in whatever had happened six years ago, and perhaps that was the reason Evelyn was wary of her.

    "I never believed it was possible to meet a perfectdy until now. You''re so perfect I''m scared of screwing this up," he said and sheughed.

    "Please do not tter me. I have my ws too," she said and Derek raised a brow.

    "Can you tell me one?"

    "I am..."

    "Hold that thought," Derek said when his phone buzzed on the table with a call from Ethan, "I''m sorry, I have to take this," he said and she gave him a nod to go ahead.

    Derek raised the phone to his ear, "Hey! What''s up?" He asked, acting like he didn''t know any Ethan was calling.

    Ethan chuckled, "I figured I give you an extra thirty minutes to talk to your wife-to-be so that you''d be happier to hear from me when I call."

    "You bastard. I''m going to make you pay," Derek muttered under his breath, "Shit! I totally forgot about that. Alright. I''m sorry. I''ll be there shortly," Derek said out loud for Sandra''s benefit before hanging up.

    "I''m sorry, Sandra, I have to run now. I forgot I had to be somewhere," Derek said apologetically and watched as a flicker of disappointment crossed her face.

    She had been hoping to follow him back to his hotel and spend the night with him, not only because it was what she had nned with Michael but also because she had enjoyed their date.

    "We didn''t get to talk about you because I was too carried away talking about myself. Perhaps I could stop over at your suite tomorrow so we get to know ourselves better?" She suggested her smile coy.

    Derek shook his head, offering her a polite smile. "I don''t think there''s any need for the rush. We have more dates toe, and there is a lifetime of getting to know each other. One thing you''d learn about me is that I love to take my time in anything I do," he said with a suggestive wink, not wanting her to take his rejection to heart since he intended to keep her close.

    Sandra smiled shyly. "It''s okay. I totally understand," she said, d to see that he was not only offering her an exnation but was also flirting back which meant that he liked her.

    "We should leave now so we don''t disrupt your ns any further," she said as she pushed away from the table, and Derek rose.

    As they walked out of the restaurant together, Sandra couldn''t help but hope that he''d ask for her contact details.

    "Let''s do this again. I enjoyed yourpany," he said, holding her gaze.

    "Me too," she said with a sweet smile, wondering if she should ask for his number or wait for him to ask her.

    Just as the valet brought her car, Derek held out his phone to her. "Do you mind gracing my phone with your number? I''d like to buy you a drink and hear more about those ws without the date being set up by my Mom," Derek asked, and she grinned. "I was thinking you''d never ask," she said as she typed in her number.

    Derek held out her car door, and as she got in he smiled at her, "Did I tell you how beautiful you look in your dress? Sorry it''singte," he said, and she giggled as he closed the door.

    Derek stepped aside and watched with satisfaction as she drove offughing. He was proud of himself for handling the date naturally and leading her on sessfully.

    He was certain that Michael would soon hear all about how Derek had fallen for their n, Derek thought with a chuckle as he got into his car and drove off.

    He just needed to keep ying along until he found out exactly what that n was.

 Chapter 66

    elyn organized her desk as the final hours of the workday slipped away. The offer was quiet, with most of the staff

    werkend

    She should have been door and left the office already, but because she had been ton distracted all day since she got Derek''s test that morning informing her of his date with Sandra, she had been unable in focus and as had finishedie

    And even now as she prepared to leave, she found herself wondering how the date was going and if Derk was going fall for Nameles a charm.

    As the clock struck six her phone buzzed on the desk, pulling her out of her reverie. the nced at the wreen and son Kayna''s name Mashane With

    resigned sigh, she picked up the phone

    "Hey, Ray Evelyn greeted trying to merr some enthusiau

    "Evelyn Are you ready for tonight? Rayna re was full of energy, her exement ofis

    ea of a might imat at the club feeling more

    ting than ewiting. She won''t in the monit for lourd music, cromedi

    of attention Raya was likely hoping for Rot a promise was a promise, and she wasn''t going to hack no

    "Yeah but Em just about to leave the office now" Kerlyn said, forting a mile for know yma ole

    "No worries. We don''t have to get there too early! So was thinking we she meet up at one of our ces vol get realy ether

    and Was krone Ide old times.""" Rayna Riggestel, her tone bright and neuralgie

    Evelyn''s eyes flicked questions she wi

    cand the framed photo of Samantha on her desk. Thest thing the wanted was firs arly to answer. She quickly thright of apromue

    "How about we meet at your ce incai"

    irlyn Hiperited. "We can get maily therr, and

    Kayna sdidn''t miss a beat. "Cool" I will i

    Evelyn breathed a quiet sigh of relief "Thanks, Ray III are

    ween h¨®wg with prople

    nching Marbi

    After ending the call. Evelyn gathered her things and left the offer. The Evelyn frit a pang of longing for the simplicity of a quiet evening at home with Samantha curlibed Samantha chose Unfortunately, tonight wasn''t about her preferred mitite; it was about humoring a promise to a frierul.

    Thankfully, she had asked Ma

    Maya to take Samantha to the amusement park during the day. herself so putting her to deep would be easy wing Samanth,

    freshened up quickly and after having diruser with Samantha, she prepared her for brid.

    Samantha, reading her a bedtime story, Samantha''s eyes grew heavy, and the stuggled into Evelyn''s side uking Evelyn smule.

    "I thought you''d forgotten all about him." Evelyn said, amused.

    "No Is him. I dreamt that ek was ying with me at the park" Samantha sail, and Evelyn patted her hair "Well I don'') the

    cendently

    at the Hotel. But don''t

    "Memory, will we always be together" Samantha asked deepily

    Evelyn kossed her forehead, her heart aching with lowe "Always, my darling Always"

    A Samantha dried off deep, Evelyn stayed by her side, watching her little girl beate softly

    Afee making sure that she was sleeping soundly, Evelyn gofressed and let to Karma K a dergi breath befor

    ser bum again." Evelyn sand

    3:00 PM

    d

    Evelyn stepped inside, taking in Rayna''s stylishly decorated apartment. It was warm and weing, with a lively energy that reflected Rayna''s personality perfectly.

    ust like this, getting ready for nights out with She felt a pang of nostalgia as she remembered the countless nights they had spent together in ces just nothing but fun on their minds, but then again, Sandra had been present on every one of those nights.

    Thinking back now, she remembered how Michael had taken Sandra to the dancefloor on every one of their outings, and like a fool she had watched them,ughing happily that her sister and boyfriend got along so well. What a fool she had been.

    But that was years ago, Evelyn reminded herself. Life had changed since then, and so had she. She was no longer that fool.

    Shaking off her thoughts, she turned to Rayna with a smile. "Your ce is lovely."

    "Thanks. You were taking so long, so I decided to get ready while I waited," Rayna said, exining why she was dressed.

    "Great I''m d I dressed from home too. We can leave now," Evelyn said and watched as Rayna''s eyes traveled over her outfit- a simple, knee-length dress in a soft blue that Evelyn had thought was suitable for the evening. But the way Rayna''s lips twisted into a yful smirk told her that her friend didn''t agree.

    "Are you sure you''re dressed for the club? Because I was about to ask where your bag is." Rayna said, and Evelyn''s cheeks flushed slightly.

    "What''s wrong with what I''m wearing?"

    "Evie." Rayna began, cing a hand on her hip. "There is no way I''m letting you go to the club dressed like you''re heading to a board meeting."

    "I don''t wear this to a board meeting," Evelyn said defensively,

    Rayna raised an eyebrow, her expression incredulous. "What happened to you, Evelyn! You used to be so much fun, so daring. Now you''re all... demure. Mind you, I''m saying demure only because it''s the most polite I know. I''d rather say boring and stiff."

    "Thanks, Evelyn said dryly.

    *For real. Evie, what happened?" Rayna asked with concern.

    "Life happened, Rayna. I don''t have time to y dress-up anymore," Evelyn replied a hint of defensiveness in her tone.

    Rayna''s gaze softened, but she wasn''t about to let Evelyn off the hook. "Well, I won''t be letting you leave here dressed this way. We won''t be catching any masculine attention with you dressed like that." "I don''t care about masculine attention, so you shouldn''t care about what I''m wearing. Let''s focus on you. Y said, crossing her arms.

    on you. You can have all

    the stree

    attention," Evelyn

    Rayna shook her head,ughing softly. "I won''t be getting any attention because people are going to take one look at you-my friend- and think I''m like that too. So, you see? I care about what you''re wearing. We need to up your game, just for tonight."

    Before Evelyn could protest, Rayna had already moved to her bedroom, motioning for Evelyn to follow. With a sigh, Evelyn trailed after her, feeling a mix of reluctance and resignation.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    Rayna opened the doors to her closet, revealing a treasure trove of clothes that ranged from stylish to downright daring.

    "Why does a baker have such stylish clothes? Evelyn asked, and Rayna grinned.

    *So that whenever she steps out, she''s always in style." Rayna said with a grin. "Remember how we used to y dress-up back in the day!" Rayna said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. ¡°This is just like that, except now we actually get to go out and show off."

    Evelyn couldn''t help but smile at the memory of their younger days when the world had seemed so much simpler. The idea of dressing up like they used to felt like trying to step into a time capsule.

    "I''m not sure anything in there is my style anymore," Evelyn said, eyeing the racks of dresses with some apprehension.

    Rayna wasn''t having any of it. "Nonsense! You''re going to pick something sexy, and you''re going to love it."

    After much prodding, and with no small amount of reluctance, Evelyn finally selected a dress- one far more revealing than anything she had worn in years.

    It was a deep red, with a plunging neckline and a hemline that brushed just above her knees. She held it up in front of her, turning to Rayna with a look of uncertainty.

    "What do you think about this? Evelyn asked, her voice a mix of doubt and amusement.

    Rayna grinned. "You''re going to look amazing

    Once Evelyn had slipped into the dress, Rayna stepped back to admire her handiwork.

    "Now that''s more like it." Rayna said with satisfaction, a spark of pride in her eyes. "You look stunning. Evelyn Just like the Evelyn of the past,"

    Evelyn gave a half-hearted smile, smoothing the fabric of the dress over her hips. "I hope I don''t regret this?

    "You won''t." Rayna assured her, already pulling out makeup and hair tools. "Now sit down. Let me work my magic."

    Evelyn sat at the small vanity as Rayna began applying makeup with practiced hands. She watched herself in the mirror, seeing the transformation take ce as Rayna skillfully highlighted her features and styled her hair into soft, tousled waves.

    When Rayna was finished, she stepped back with a satisfied nod. "There you go. Ready

    to take on th

    on the night."

    Evelyn barely recognized herself. The woman staring back at her from the mirror looked like a stranger. She felt a pang of apprehension, wondering if this was really who she wanted to be tonight.

    But before she could second-guess herself, Rayna was already grabbing her purse and keys, "Come on, let''s go before you change your mind like 1

    can sense you''re about to."

    With onest nce in the mirror. Evelyn stood up, feeling the unfamiliar sensation of the dress hugging her curves. She followed Rayna out of the apartment, trying to push aside the nervous flutter in her stomach.

    As they stepped out into the night, Evelyn couldn''t help but wonder what the evening had in store for her. She was stepping out of herfort zone, leaving behind the safe shell of her everyday life. As Rayna linked arms with her and led her toward the car. Evelyn felt a small flicker of excitement beneath her apprehension.

    Maybe tonight would be a chance to reconnect with the part of herself she had almost forgotten. The part that was adventurous, daring, and ready for anything. And maybe, just maybe, she wouldn''t regret it after all.

 Chapter 67

    As Evelyn and Rayna pulled up to the club, Evelyn could feel her nerves tightening in her chest. The club building was imposing and its entrance was nked by ck-d bouncers, with a red carpet leading to the door..

    entrance. The bouncers barely

    A line of people stretched down the block, but Rayna confidently led Evelyn past the crowd, straight to the VIP en nced at them before waving them through, and Evelyn wondered just how often Rayna frequented this ce.

    "You do this often, don''t you?" Evelyn asked and Rayna grinned.

    "Why do you ask?"

    "Seems to me like they know you," Evelyn said with a shrug.

    "Well, there''s a story behind that. I''ll tell youter," Rayna promised as she led her inside.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    Rayna had chosen Sodom And Gomorrah, one of the most exclusive clubs in the city, for their night out, and the moment they stepped inside, Evelyn could see why it was exclusive. The interior screamed of ss and luxury.

    The music was loud, and the air was thick with energy, anticipation, and the scent of expensive perfume.

    Rayna''s excitement was barely contained as she grabbed Evelyn''s hand, pulling her through the crowd. "This is going to be so much fun! Trust me, you''re going to have the time of your life tonight. Evelyn forced a smile, trying to match Rayna''s enthusiasm, but the truth was, she feltpletely out of ce. The dress she was wearing, the makeup, the club-it all felt like a role she was ying, and she wasn''t sure if she was doing it right

    Years ago she would have been just as enthusiastic and excited, but all that enthusiasm, excitement, and energy had been drained out of her. This wasn''t her scene anymore, and she knew it

    As they weaved through the crowd, Rayna swayed her waist to the rhythm of the music, while Evelyn prayed they find a seat soon so she wouldn''t get any unnecessary attention.

    Once they reached the bar, Rayna leaned against it, signaling the bartender with a flick of her hand. "Two martinis, please. Extra dirty"

    As they waited for their drinks, Rayna turned to Evelyn with a wide grin. "Isn''t this ce amazing? I mean, look at all these people. We''re going to have a st!"

    Evelyn nodded, though her attention was beginning to wander. The dancefloor was packed with bodies moving in time to the beat, and she found herself scanning the crowd.

    Her gaze swept across the room, and for a moment, she thought she saw a familiar figure in the distance. A man, tall and broad-shouldered, with dark chocte hair that looked achingly familiar. Evelyn blinked, telling herself that it couldn''t be who she thought it was. Derek was supposed to be on a date with Sandra. There was no way he''d be here, at the same club, on the same night. The odds were too slim.

    But then the man turned slightly, his profile bing clearer, and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat. It was Derek.

    He was standing near the entrance, just stepping into the club with another man she didn''t recognize. He was dressed in a fitted zer and dark jeans, looking effortlessly handsome, and he hadn''t noticed her yet

    Her pulse quickened as she realized she wasn''t imagining it. Derek was really here, at the same ce, at the same time. It was as if the universe was ying some kind of cruel joke on her.

    For a brief moment, Evelyn considered turning around and leaving. Thest thing she needed tonight was to see Derek, especially not when she was trying to forget about him, about his date with Sandra, about the mess that her emotions had be since she moved back to Ludus. But she couldn''t move. Her feet felt rooted to the spot, her gaze locked on Derek as if drawn by some invisible force.

    And then, as if sensing her eyes on him, Derek looked up. Their gazes met across the crowded room, and for a heartbeat, everything else faded away-the music, the people, the noise. It was just the two of them, staring at each other from a distance.

    Evelyn''s breath caught in her throat. She didn''t know what to do, what to think. A part of her wanted to march over to him and demand to know why he was here and not with Sandra. Another part of her wanted to flee, to avoid the confrontation altogether. But she did neither.

    Instead, she tore her gaze away from him, turning back to

    k to the bar as if she hadn''t seen him at all.

    Kayna handed her a martini, blissfully unaware of what had just transpired. "Here you go! This will get you in the mood."

    BIUM PM

    Evelyn epted the ss, her hands trembling slightly as she took a sip. The alcohol burned as it went down, but she weed the distraction, anything to keep her from ncing back at Derek.

    She couldn''t afford to get caught up in whatever was going on between them, not tonight. Tonight was supposed to be about fun, about forgetting. not about dredging up feelings that had no ce in her heart.. Meanwhile, across the club, Derek who had just walked in with Ethan, turned to him, a knowing smile ying on his lips. "You won''t believe who''s

    here."

    Ethan, who had been scanning the crowd himself, raised an eyebrow. "Who?"

    "My mysterydy," Derek said, nodding toward the bar where Evelyn was standing, doing her best to ignore him.

    Ethan followed his gaze, his eyesnding on Evelyn and Rayna whose backs were turned to them. Thedy in red or the other one

    Derek nodded, his expression a mix of surprise and something else-something that Ethan couldn''t quite ce. "Thedy in red. And I think she saw me, but she''s pretending she didn''t"

    Ethan chuckled, pping Derek on the shoulder. "Well, looks like tonight just got a lot more interesting for you. But hold that thought-1 see someone I know. I need to go say hello."

    Derek watched as Ethan disappeared into the crowd, then turned his attention back to Evelyn. She was still at the bar, sipping her drink, her posture tense as if she were trying to block out the world around her- or perhaps he was the one she was trying to block out.

    He couldn''t help but smile to himself. There was something about Evelyn that intrigued him, something that made him want to strip away theyers and uncover what was hidden underneath. Without another thought, he started making his way through the crowd, his gaze never leaving Evelyn.

    He didn''t know what he was going to say, or what her reaction would be, but he knew he couldn''t let this opportunity pass. Not when fate had brought them together again, in the most unexpected of ces. Derek continued to weave through the throng of people, his eyes locked on Evelyn. He watched as she raised her ss to her lips but he could tell by her bodynguage that she was anything but rxed.

    When

    Evelyn turned to look in his direction and saw him approaching, he saw her stiften.

    Evelyn turned to Rayna, her voice barely above the pounding music. "I need to use the restroom. I''ll be right back"

    Rayna nodded, raising her ss in a mock salute. "Don''t take too long."

    Evelyn forced a smile, then slipped off her barstool, making a beeline for the restroom. But before she could get far, Derck stepped into her path.

    Derek''s gaze swept over her, taking in the fiued dress that clung to her curves, the smoky eye makeup that made her eyes look darker and more mysterious, the way she lookedpletely out of ce yet entirely captivating. He was surprised to see her like this- so different from the Evelyn he thought he knew.

    "What are you doing here, Eve?" he asked, his voice low enough that only she could hear.

    Evelyn avoided his gaze, "What does it look like I''m doing? I''m here to buy and sell," she replied, her tone dripping with sarcasm and Derek chuckled.

    "Alright. Maybe that question was stupid..."

    "Yes, it was. What do you want, Derek? And why are you talking to me when you should be with your date?" She asked, trying to sound harsh.

    "You know what I want. And the date ended already."

    "Well, I don''t care, Evelyn snapped, trying to push past him, but Derek gently caught her arm.

    "Why don''t you join us at our table?" he asked, his tone more of an invitation than a request.

    Evelyn shook her head, pulling her arm free. "I don''t want to. I''m here with my friend, and we''re fine where we are."

    Before Derek could say anything else, Rayna who had sensed the tension between them from the distance, appeared beside them, holding their drinks. She looked at Derek curiously, then at Evelyn. "Who are you? And why are you bothering my friend?" she asked with a raised brow since she had seen him touch her.

    "It''s fine, Ray. I know him...

    3.UN PMI

    "Oh, you do?" Rayna asked eagerly and sensing what Rayna was about to say next. Evelyn spoke quickly.

    "He''s not someone you need to worry about," Evelyn said dismissively.

    Derek smiled, refusing to be dismissed so easily. "Pleased to meet a friend of Evelyn''s," he said, extending a hand to Rayna. "I''m Deick, and I was Just asking if you''d like to join us at our table." Rayna nced at Evelyn, then back at Derek. "That depends. Do you have a single friend you can introduce me to? If so, we might consider it, slie said, since it was obvious Derek was interested in Evelyn Evelyn''s eyes narrowed, her patience wearing thin. "If you want to join them, Rayna, I''ll just head home. Evelyn said before Derek could speak.

    Rayna caught the edge in Evelyn''s voice and understood that her friend wasn''t interested in hanging out with Derek. She smiled politely at bins and shook her head. "On second thought. I think we''re good where we are. It was nice meeting you, Derek."

    Derek felt a twinge of disappointment as he realized that Evelyn wasn''t going to budge. He nodded, masking his frustration. "Likewise," he said, stepping back to give them space.

    He watched as Evelyn and Rayna walked away, feeling the night''s excitement fizzle out, leaving an empty ache in its wake.

    "So. how''d it go?" Ethan asked from behind Derek and he turned to face him.

    Derek shook his head, a rueful smile on his lips. "Not as well as I''d hoped.

    Ethan chuckled, pping him on the shoulder "Better luck next time, my friend, Though I have to say, she''s one hell of a beauty."

    Derek nodded as he turned back to look at Evelyn. One way or the other he was going to have her where he wanted her in his life. Beside him.

 Chapter 68

    Evelyn and Rayna returned to their seats, and they both sat in silence for some time as Evelyn tried to gather her thoughts. Knowing Rayna was definitely going to ask her about Derek, she wasn''t sure what or how much she was ready to tell her.

    She sighed inwardly when it seemed she was hiding so much from Hayna. Seeing how happy Rayna seemed, reconnecting with her made her feel like a terrible friend, but there was nothing she could do about it-at least for now.

    came

    so easily

    easily to her after Sandra''s betrayal

    She would be risking too much if she so much as told Rayna about her secrets. Trust no longer c

    Rayna, who couldn''t hold back her curiosity any longer and was tired of waiting for Evelyn to talk, cleared her throat and turned to look at Evelyn

    after some time.

    hy did you act like that? Did something happen between

    She leaned in close, her voice barely audible over the music. "So, who''s Derek, Evie? And why you two!" she asked, and Evelyn sighed.

    She had known the conversation was inevitable, not after she had acted that way.

    Evelyn took a deep breath, trying to keep her voice steady. "Like I said before, he''s no one to concern yourself with. Just someone I am going to be Interviewing soon," she said with an indifferent shrug before sipping from her martini.

    Rayna raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. "Come on. Exic. I know it''s more than that, especially with how you reacted. I saw the way he touched you and the way he looked at you, you know? That guy likes you, and it''s obvious. I have a feeling you like him, too."

    Evelyn shook her head dismissively, though she couldn''t quite keep the emotion from her voice. "It really doesn''t matter even if I do," she said, and Rayna frowned, sensing there was more to the story.

    of concern

    cern for her friend.

    e wasn''t prepared.

    -Why d

    doesn''t it matter? What''s going on?" she asked, not exactly because she was curious but our

    Evelyn sighed, knowing she wasn''t ready to open up, not here, not now. She wanted to and wished she could, but she

    "Ray, please.. can we not

    e... can we not talk about it?" she asked, not wanting to lie.

    Rayna sighed but nodded, relenting for the moment. "Alright, I won''t push. But when you''re ready to talk, just know I''m here to listen. Anytime, okay?" she said reassuringly.

    Evelyn managed a small smile, grateful for Rayna''s understanding. "Thank you, Ray, for not pushing. I appreciate that, and I will definitely tell you everything when I''m ready," she said, and Rayna returned the smile.

    Not wanting to dwell on that and spoil the fun they hade for, Rayna quickly brightened up, her mood lifting as she grabbed Evelyn''s hand. "Enough with the serious stuff. Let''s take some pictures and make some videos! We need to document this night," she chirped, Evelyn chuckled, feeling a little lighter as she watched Rayna pull out her phone.

    They posed for pictures, made funny faces, and made boornerang videos, and Evelyn''s earlier nonchnce was temporarily forgotten as they immersed themselves in the fun of the moment.

    While Evelyn and Rayna were busy taking pictures and having fun, Derek and Ethan sat a reasonable distance away from them, and Derek watched Evelyn''s every move with a smile on his face. Derek had convinced Ethan so they could find a spot closer to Evelyn where he could keep his eyes on her, and as he watched Evelyn, Ethan shook his head.

    "If I had known she would be here tonight, I would have taken you elsewhere," Ethan said with an amused smile.

    "And she would have been there, my friend. You can''t tamper with fate," Derek responded without taking his eyes away from Evelyn, and Ethan chuckled.

    "I brought you here to hang out with me, but your attention is fixed elsewhere. Ethanined as he watched his friend.

    "You don''t understand how I feel seeing her here this way, Derek said, turning to spare Ethan a nce.

    "Seeing you so in love with her this way makes me jealous," Ethan said, and Derek shook his head.

    her to

    date

    me

    "There is nothing to be jealous about. Our rtionship is soplicated right now that I know it''s going to be a tough fight to get and talk more about marrying me. There are so many obstacles. I have to deal with Michael, my parents, and Evelyn herself. She''s so damned stubborn. I know she likes me, but she just won''t give in. You, on the other hand, can date and marry whoever you want. You don''t have any obstacles in your path. So, you see? Nothing to be jealous about." Derek said, feeling pretty much frustrated by the thought.

    "Who says I can date anyone! All I want to do right now is find someone suitable and

    married to her so

    o she can give

    kids. You know I do not

    3:10 PM

    have the luxury of time to do any dating drama," he said, and Derek turned to look at him, giving hi

    him a confused look.

    "Just get married and have kids? What are you talking about! Don''t you have to date someone or fall in love with them to get married?" Derek asked, and Ethan shook his head.

    "I''d love to date and fall in love, but as it is, I don''t have the time. And we don''t always have to date someone to get married to them. I''m sure I can get to like and date whoever I get married to after marriage." Ethan said, and before Derek looked at him like he had lost his senses.

    you out of your mind? Why would you do something like that when you can find a woman you like, court her, and have her fall for you like every normal rtionship?" Derek asked incredulously. Ethan shrugged, his expression turning serious

    "How am I supposed to meet a woman, fall in love, and do all that normal rtionship stuff when I''m barely around for more than a month at a time? I don''t have the time for that, Rek, All 1 need is someone who''s ready to settle down, have kids, and take care of the family while I''m away for work. Besides, falling in love would only put us both in misery whenever I''m away," he exined. Derek shook his head, but Ethan raised a finger before he could say anything

    "Hear me out, okay! I''m thirty-eight right now, in two years, I will be forty. Let''s say I spend the next two years trying to date and fall in love like you''re suggesting and then I manage to get married by the time I''m forty, Great. Let''s say we decide to have a baby immediately, and then my wife and I wee our baby when I''m forty-one. Il be fily by the time my first kid is nine years old. Fucking nine years old, man! And I''ll be sixty when he''s going to college. Ethan said, expressing his frustration.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    Derek frowned as he thought about it. "As long as you''re healthy, that doesn''t matter!

    "It does to me, Derek. I always thought there was time. I thought I had the time and I was rxed. And then, on the morning of my birthday a few weeks ago, I realized I was in myte thirties already and close to forty. That wasn''t my n, man. My n was to get married at thirty and retire at forty-five to be with my family, not start a family at forty, Ethan said, and Derek sighed

    "Okay. So, if you don''t want to date, how do you intend to marry! Don''t tell me you''re thinking of a contract marriage, Derek asked, and Ethan shrugged.

    "Something like that, but it''s not going to be for a specified duration. I want a home, a real family. I want to get married to someone who can take care of our kids while I''m away at work," Ethan said, and Derek sighed, understanding Ethan''s reasoning

    "I understand what you''re saying, but marriage is a lifetimemitment. Ethan. I don''t think you should make such a serious decision lightly." Derek said, and Ethan smiled.

    "You know me. I wouldn''t share my n with you if I had not already thought about it and made up my mind," he said, and Derek sighed.

    "So, how do you n to find thisdy who would be willing to give up her life for a lifetime of a loveless marriage? Derek asked, and this time. Ethan chuckled, knowing Derek was going to think he had lost it when he heard his n.

    "Why are youughing that way? Say something. How do you n to get a girl?" he asked again.

    "First, it''s not a lifetime of loveless marriage. Like I said, we can fall in love and date after marriage. I''m just hastening the process by beginning with marriage. And as for my n, I''m going to put out an ad for a wife in one of those magazine/blog couple corners"

    "You''re going to do what?" Derek asked incredulously.

    "You heard right. I n to get married before I return this time, and this is the only way I can achieve that." Ethan said in a tone that told Derek that his mind was made up.

    Derek shook his head, unable to wrap his mind around the idea. "That''s a ridiculous n, Ethan. You can''t just rush into something like that. It doesn''t make any sense to me, Derek said, but Ethan grinned, undeterred

    to do so I don''t remain a bachelor forever. I want to have a wife and kids to return to." Ethan

    "It doesn''t have to make sense to you. It is what I want to said, and Derek sighed

    "I know I can''t change your mind, so I have no choice but to support you. I just hope you don''t regret this, though." Derek sand, and Fihan smilest "1 won''t regret it"

 Chapter 69

    Sandray back on her bed, staring at the ceiling with a bright smile ying on her lips as she thought about her date with Derek earlier.

    The date with Derek had gone better than she had expected; it was nothing like she had expected. He had been the most charming, attentive man she had been on a date with, and, most importantly, he seemed to have really enjoyed herpany.

    Although she had wanted to go out of her way to impress him, she hadn''t exactly done too much. He had made it all too easy for her. She thought as her already wide smile widened, and she kicked her legs in the air yfully.

    As the memory of his smile shed in her mind, she felt a warm feeling spread through her chest. It was rare for her to feel this way after a date. especially when it was all just part of the game, but this just sort of felt different for her.

    She caught herself thinking about how easy it was to talk to him, how heughed at her jokes, and how he looked at her, his beautiful pair of blue eyes filled with so much interest,

    Could it be that he was in love with her after hearing about her! She asked herself but then frowned. If he liked her so much, why hadn''t he called her, yet? Sandra mused as she checked her phone for the tenth time, her fingers tapping anxiously on the screen.

    He should have called by now, or was he still caught up in the meeting he had gone to! It had to be that.

    She thought about calling him to ask if he was back, but she shook her head. Doing that might make her seem too forward or desperate. He was already into her, and thest thing she wanted was to chase him off by being clingy. She thought and almost jumped out of her skin when her phone buzzed.

    A grin immediately appeared on her face, and without wasting time, she grabbed her phone, her heart pounding. She was hoping it was Derek since he was the only one she was expecting to call her.

    She scowled, and a wave of irritation washed over her when she saw that it was Michael who was calling. She sighed before reluctantly answering the call.

    "Hey, Mike," she said, trying to keep her voice neutral,

    "Hey! What''s up? Are you back already? How did the date go?" Michael asked eagerly, with an edge of curiosity that Sandra had grown ustomed

    "I''m back, and it was okay," Sandra replied, her tone dismissive.

    "Just okay?" Michael pressed, not satisfied with her curt response.

    "Yeah, Sandra said, her frustration rising. "He seemed to be taking the act as we already knew he would. It''s all going ording to n," she said with a shrug.

    Although she had just received the call, she couldn''t wait for it to end. Talking to Michael right now felt like a chore, and she wanted to get over with it as soon as possible so her phone could be free to receive Derek''s call.

    What if he was trying to reach her right now while Michael was on the line? She didn''t want to keep Derek waiting because she was discussing their date with Michael.

    1 sec. Why didn''t you call me when you got back?" Michael asked, his voice hardening slightly. "I had to wait, thinking you had probably gone to his suite with him. Why didn''t you call?" he asked again.

    Sandra rolled her eyes, knowing that Michael couldn''t see her. "I was busy, and even now, I''m still busy," she said, trying to sound casual.

    "Busy? Busy doing what?" Michael asked, his tone almost usatory. "And why didn''t you return with him to his suite as nned? What happened? Tell me everything."

    Sandra gritted her teeth, her irritation with Michael growing. He was always like this overly suspicious, always prying, and just wanting to be in control of everything "He had to leave earlier because something came up, so I couldn''t go with him, she said, her voice clipped.

    "Something like what?" Michael asked, but Sandra''s mind had already drifted back to Derek.

    What if he called while she was stuck on this unnecessary phone call with Michael? Why wasn''t he hanging up and just asking stupid questions! She asked herself irritably. She needed to wrap this Sandra took a deep breath, forcing herself to stay calm. "He didn''t say. But he did say we''d go on other dates, which means there''s plenty of time to deepover. Can we talkter I''m busy right now, the said in a firm tone.

    There was a pause on the other end of the line before Michael finally spoke again. "What are you doing t

    that needs your attention so much? And

    3:10 PM

    why do you sound like I''m bothering you?" he asked, his voice taking on a probing tone.

    "For Christ''s sake, Michael, I''m busy! Let''s talkter. I can''t fully concentrate on this conversation right now," Sandra replied harshly before ending

    the call.

    Once the call ended, she let out a sigh of relief. Finally, she was free. She immediately checked her phone again, but there were no missed calls or messages from Derek.

    A small frown tugged at her lips, but she pushed the disappointment aside. Maybe he was still busy. After all, Derek was a man te. She was sure he would call her when he had the time and she didn''t mind waiting.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    He had been the one to ask for her number after all, so she had no doubt that he was going to call.

    with a lot on his

    To distract herself while she waited for his call, Sandra decided to go through her Instagram feed, mindlessly scrolling through the posts.

    She paused when she scrolled past a picture and it urred to her that it was a picture of Rayna with Evelyn at a club. She returned to it and then clicked on Rayna''s profile.

    She scowled when she saw more posts of them together; Pictures and boomerang videos. Her scowl deepened as she watched the clips of themughing and clinking sses like didn''t have a care in the world.

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed as she watched the video and when she checked the time it was posted and saw that it was twenty minutes ago, she couldn''t help but feel more annoyed that she was lying there bored in bed while Evelyn was having the best time of her life.

    She didn''t like it one bit that Rayna and Evelyn were bing close again. She didn''t like that Evelyn was smiling andughing that way. It

    irritated her.

    As she watched the video again, she decided that!

    whe

    was going to work on her friendship with Rayna and find a way to use Rayna to get to Evelyn.

    She was going to poison Rayna''s mind against Evelyn and ensure that no one in Ludus would ever want anything to do with Evelyn. Evelyn had no ce here and she would make sure Evelyn knew it A slow smile spread across Sandra''s face as she envisioned her ning together.

    Satisfied with her n, Sandra set her phone down and leaned back, feeling a renewed sense of purpose as she waited for Derek''s call.

 Chapter 70

    While Derek was lost in conversation with Ethan about his crazy n, Evelyn stole nces at him at intervals, wondering how his date with Sandra had gone

    "Come on, Evie, let''s hit the dancefloor. It''s been ages since I saw you dance," she said with a grin.N?velDrama.Org owns all content.

    Evelyn chuckled but shook her head as she turned to face Rayna. "Nah, I don''t think I can do that anymore..."

    "Why not?" Kayna asked, but Evelyn shook her head.

    "Like you said, it''s been ages since Ist danced. I do not have it in me anymore. I''m not here to dance, only to keep youpany while you do your boyfriend hunt. You go ahead, and I''ll cheer for you from here," she said with an encouraging smile.

    Rayna pouted, clearly disappointed. "It''s no fun dancing alone, so I won''t bother. Maybe we should just head home since it''s quite obvious I won''t be getting any man''s attention tonight, Rayna said with a sigh and took a long sip from her drink.

    Evelyn frowned, feeling a twinge of guilt. I''m sorry, Ray. I didn''t mean to ruin your night," Evelyn said with a frown.

    Rayna sighed, her expression softening. "No. You didn''t ruin it, don''t worry. I''m d we got to do this," Rayna said, and Evelyn looked at her skeptically.

    "Are you sure?" Evelyn asked, her toneced with concern, and Hayna nodded.

    "Yeah, we''ve been here for over two hours already. I think it''s time to call it a night," she said, and Evellyn nodded, feeling a wave of relief.

    "Let''s do that, then. It''s been a long week, and I''m tired to my bones, Evelyn said, thinking about spending the weekend rxing with Samantha.

    Rayna nodded and pushed back her chair. "Let me quickly use the restroom before we leave. Il be right back," she said, and Evelyn gave her a nod

    As Evelyn watched her friend weave through the crowd, her mind drifted back to her encounter with Derek.

    As much as she tried to shake off her thoughts about Derek, they lingered in the back of her mind.

    She knew she had been distracted all night, and Rayna had noticed it. This made her feel like she was failing Rayna as a friend because she was not open to her.

    She would tell Rayna everything when the time was right; she told herself as she sipped thest drop of her martini

    "Having fun?" Derek asked from her side, causing her to jolt in surprise since she had not noticed himing

    "What are you doing here?" She asked, even though a part of her was happy to see him.

    "What do you think I''m doing?" He asked as he took the seat which Rayna had left.

    He had noticed Rayna leaving just when Ethan stepped out to receive an important phone call, so he had decided to keep herpany so that no one else would approach her. "Being a nuisance," she said, and Derek smiled.

    "You look beautiful, Eve, Derek said, watching her closely.

    She flushed with embarrassment and resisted the urge to adjust her dress. "Thanks" she mumbled.

    "I didn''t think this was your sort of crowd," Derek said conversationally, "Let me guess, it''s your first time in a club, right?" He asked, and she rolled her eyes.

    "It''s not. You know that," she said, and Derek opened his mouth to say he didn''t but then shut it when he realized what she meant.

    Michael loved clubbing, and while she was still dating Michael years ago, they used to go clubbing a lot. On different asions when they were together, Michael called Derek in the middle of the night after they returned from the club because of the time zone difference.

    "It''s still somewhat difficult to think of you as Michael''s ex. I just see you as my Eve," Derek confessed.

    "First of all, I''m not your Eve. And secondly, you should try your best to always remember that I''m Michael''s ex, that away from me. Nothing good is going toe from being with me this way." Evelyn said, and Derek sighed.

    you a question!" He asked, and she shrugged.

    way, you can learn to stay.

    *If Michael wasn''t my cousin, would you have given me a chance? Considering how we met and started," he said, and Evelyn''s heart fluttered.

    She had thought of that a lot since meeting him in his office for the first time. If he wasn''t rted to Michael, she knew it would have been so much easier to let herself fall for him.

    Evelyn swallowed. "I can''t answer that," she said, and Derek smiled.

    "Tm d then," he said, and she raised a brow.

    "What are you d about?" She asked in confusion.

    "I''m d that my rtionship with Michael is the only reason you''re so against the idea of us being together. If you had said there was something else, I would have been more worried," he said, and she frowned.

    "I didn''t answer your question," she pointed out, and Derek chuckled.

    "You didn''t have to. Your silence was answer enough. If the answer was negative, I''m sure you''d have easily answered my question," he said, and she sighed.

    Her heart skipped a beat when he reached for her hand, and she quickly attempted to withdraw her hand. Still, he held on, "I don''t know what happened between you both or why you chose to have sex with a stranger on the night before your wedding and call off your wedding, but knowing all I know now, I''m sure Michael must have done something to make you act that way. Whether or not you open up to me about it, I will find out what happened and expose Michael and Sandra. I will make sure I clear your name so that everyone doesn''t keep seeing you as a bad person. I know you''re not bad," Derek said, and Evelyn felt butterflies in her belly.

    "You don''t know that," she said in a cracked voice and cleared her throat.

    "I know that. I know you, Eve. I don''t know how, but I know you, and I trust you. You have no idea what you mean to me, Eve," Derek said, and Evelyn swallowed as she tried to withdraw her hand again, but Derck held on

    "You remember our deal, right? You realize it''s still on?" He asked, and she raised a brow.

    "What deal?"

    "We agreed that if you fell for me at the resort, then I wouldn''t."

    Evelyn cut in before he could finish, "Derek, I don''t think you should be talkin... the rest of her words trailed off and she frowned, "Why are you smiling?"

    "I like it when you call me Derek," he said, and she rolled her eyes.

    "Want to know how

    my

    date went?" Derek asked, changing the subject, Without waiting for her to respond, heunched on with the details of his

    date

 Billionaires 71

    Chapter 71

    While Evelyn was busy with Derek, Rayna navigated through the crowd as she made her way back from the restroom. She swayed her body to the rhythm of the music, feeling the pulsating beat vibrate through her.

    Her thoughts wandered to Evelyn, who seemed so preupied tonight. Rayna wished she could convince her friend to let loose and have fun, but it seemed like that was a lost cause.

    As she approached the corner leading back to their table, she passed a group of guys standing close to the bar, theirughter and conversation loud and boisterous. She paid them no mind, keeping her eyes ahead until she felt someone tap her ass suddenly. The impact sent a shock through her system, and she froze in ce, stunned.

    Heat flooded her face as anger surged within her. She spun around, her eyes scanning the faces of everyone around, trying to identify the culprit. But everyone around looked at her with feigned innocence, smirking and nudging each other.

    Her eyes continued searching until theynded on the retreating figure of a man she recalled had walked past her at the same time just before she felt the tap on her ass.

    Assuming the worst, Rayna''s eyes narrowed, and she stormed towards him, her heels clicking louder with each step. She nted herself in front of him, crossing her arms over her chest, her expression a mixture of fury and disbelief.

    "What the hell is wrong with you?" she snapped, her voice raised over the noise of the club.

    Ethan blinked, clearly taken aback by her outburst. "What are you talking about?" he asked, his brows furrowing.

    "Don''t y dumb with me! I felt that!" she said usingly, jabbing a finger towards him. "You just pped my ass!"

    Ethan''s eyes widened in shock. "What? No, I didn''t!" he protested, raising his hands defensively. "I didn''t touch you! I don''t even know who you are."

    Rayna''s temper red even more at his denial. "Don''t lie to me! I know what I felt!" she shot back, her voice rising.

    "What kind of pervert does that to a woman he barely knows? Do you think it''s funny?"

    Ethan looked around, noticing the people nearby ncing at them. He took a step closer to Rayna, lowering his voice in an attempt to calm her down.

    "Listen to me. I didn''t touch you. I swear, it wasn''t me," he said, his tone earnest.

    But Rayna was not having it. "Do you think I''m stupid?" she hissed, her eyes zing. "You walk right past me, and then I feel someone p my ass! Who else could it have been?"

    Ethan''s frustration was evident as he ran a hand through his hair. "I don''t know, maybe one of those assholes by the bar? But it wasn''t me!" he insisted, pointing over her shoulder at the group of guys who were now trying to hide their snickers.

    Rayna turned to look at the group, theirughter and sly grins making her blood boil even more. She turned back to Ethan, her eyes still filled with suspicion. "You expect me to believe that?" she asked, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

    Ethan nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, because it''s the truth. I wouldn''t do something like that. You have to believe me," he said, his voice firm.

    "You look to me like just the type to do something like that, you pervert," she said, and his eyes darkened at her words.

    Ethan took a deep breath to calm himself from saying something he might regret, "Don''t call me that." His voice was low, with a tinge of warning in his tone.

    "Then you shouldn''t act like one if you don''t want to be addressed as one," she retorted.

    Ethan''s jaw tightened as he nced back at the group of guys, who were still snickering. One of them gave him a mocking salute, clearly enjoying the drama they had caused.

    Ethan''s hands balled into fists at his sides, but he forced himself to take a deep breath. As much as he wanted to confront them, he knew it wouldn''t help the situation with this annoying woman.

    Ethan returned his attention to her, "I didn''t touch you. I have no reason to. I didn''t even notice that I walked past someone like you because you''re not attractive enough to get my attention," Ethan said, looking her over with disapproval, "and you''re not smart either if you can''t tell when a man is being honest or not. Simply put, you''re not my type," Ethan said, and even though his words stung, Rayna paused.

    For a moment, Rayna hesitated, her anger wavering as she looked into his eyes. There was no sign of deceit, no trace of a smirk that suggested he was lying. All she saw was annoyance. But her pride wouldn''t let her back down so easily. She shook her head, her jaw set in a stubborn line.

    "I don''t care whether I''m your type or not. You''re not my type either," she said, though her voice was not as confident as before, but it was stillced with distrust.

    "But if I find out you''re lying, you''ll regret it."

    Ethan watched her, feeling both angry and frustrated.

    "Listen, I''m sorry someone touched you and made you feel ufortable. But that person wasn''t me. I hope you find them."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    They eyed each other for a moment, but Rayna said nothing more. She huffed, turned on her heel, and stalked back to join Evelyn, her heart pounding with a mix of anger and confusion.

    The moment Rayna got to the table, she didn''t spare Derek a nce as she grabbed her purse and motioned for Evelyn to follow. "Come on, let''s get out of here," she said and left.

    "Are you okay?" Evelyn asked with concern as she grabbed her purse.

    Derek looked from Evelyn to Rayna, wishing Rayna had not returned so soon since he was enjoying being there with Evelyn despite her nonchnt attitude.

    "Let''s just get out of here," Rayna said, heading out without waiting for Evelyn to follow her.

    "I have to go with her," Evelyn told Derek, and he nodded, then smiled at her.

    "It was nice seeing you here" Derek called after her as she ran after Rayna.

 Chapter 72

    ?

    Chapter 72

    Rayna was getting into the car when Evelyn finally caught up with her. After Evelyn got into the car, she looked at Rayna with concern, wondering what could have ruined her mood.

    "Did something happen?"

    Rayna huffed, her cheeks still flushed with a mix of anger and embarrassment from the incident. "I really don''t know what is wrong with people. Can you believe that some sick pervert tapped my ass?" she asked incredulously. Evelyn''s eyes widened in disbelief, "Someone touched you inappropriately?"

    Rayna shook her head, her voiceced with frustration. "Can you stop making it sound so mild? Touching me inappropriately could be touching me in a way I don''t like. Touching my ass is sexual harassment. Someone touched my ass!" She said, and Evelyn nodded. "I hope you handled it. Did you report him to security and have him thrown out?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna sighed.

    "I would do so if I was absolutely sure of the culprit. The asshole I thought was responsible had the guts to say I was not attractive enough to have been noticed by him or smart, and I''m not his type, so he didn''t touch me. Can you imagine that? I don''t know what makes me more angry right now. The fact that I actually believe that the annoying jerk might be telling the truth or the fact that I didn''t find the bastard who touched me!" Rayna ranted, clearly pissed.

    "What kind of jerk says something like that to a beautifuldy like you? Doesn''t he realize that you were upset? Instead of being rude, why didn''t he help you find the culprit?" Evelyn asked, equally annoyed on Rayna''s behalf.

    "You know what? Let''s go back in there. I want to see the jerk who said that to you and got you all worked up. I''m going to give him a piece of my mind, and then we will find the asshole that touched you that way and make sure he never uses that hand ever again," Evelyn said, and Rayna, who was upset, took one look at Evelyn''s face and smiled.

    "That sounds more like the Evelyn I know," Rayna said, and Evelyn scowled.

    "I''m serious. Let''s go," Evelyn insisted, and Rayna giggled.

    "Let''s just go, Eve. Let''s call it a night. Besides, he looked really pissed, too, when I called him a pervert. And I also told him he wasn''t my type," Rayna said, thinking about the exchange with Ethan.

    "You did? Who had thest word?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna giggled, remembering how they used to like to have thest word in every argument growing up.

    They always believed that the winner was the one who had thest word and walked away first.

    "Well, hisst word to me was an apology after I told him back that he wasn''t my type," Rayna said, and Evelyn pped happily.

    "Great! That should put Mr Shitface jerk in his ce," She said, and Raynaughed.

    "He''s not exactly a Mr Shitface, though," Rayna said, and Evelyn raised a brow.

    "He isn''t? But didn''t you say he wasn''t your type?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna giggled.

    "He was actually good-looking. He''s very much my cup of tea, and maybe if he had admitted to being the one who had tapped my ass, I might have forgiven him and let him tap more than my ass," Rayna confessed, and Evelyn shook her head in amusement. "You know what, Ray? Just take me home. I''m done with you for tonight," Evelyn said, and Rayna giggled as she started the car.

    "Just kidding. I could never let a pervert tap my ass, but then again, maybe I can. Lovees in unexpected ways," Rayna said thoughtfully, and Evelynughed.

    "You''re just a silly and confused girl," Evelyn muttered.

    "By the way, how did you arrive at the conclusion that he was the culprit?" Evelyn asked as Rayan drove away from there.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

    "How else? He walked right past me before I felt the tap. Isn''t it natural that I assume he did it?" she asked. Evelyn raised an eyebrow, not agreeing with her.

    "Maybe. But didn''t you walk past others, too?" Evelyn asked reasonably, but Rayna shook her head.

    "I don''t know. He did suggest that a group of guys around there could have done it, but they didn''t look guilty to me," Rayna exined.

    "And he looked guilty?" she asked, amusement dancing in her tone.

    "Not exactly. I don''t know. Maybe he was innocent, and I messed up; I don''t know anymore," Rayna admitted.

    They were silent for a while as she drove, then she turned to spare Evelyn a nce, "Do you think maybe I should have asked for his number? You know, tell him I''ll call to apologize after I find the culprit? And then I''ll offer to buy him a drink?" Rayna asked with a wink, and Evelyn giggled.

    "What''s wrong with you, Ray? What exactly is your problem?"

    "I''m just saying," she said with a grin and then looked at Evelyn again. By the way, I noticed you were with Derek again. I''m not asking anything; I''m just going to say, if you like him and he likes you, maybe you should give him a shot."

    "I can''t. It''splicated," Evelyn said, looking away from Rayna to look out the window.

    "Then uplicate it. I''m not sure there''s an English like that, but I''m sure you get the gist. I feel people are only making excuses when they say something isplicated," Rayna said, and Evelyn sighed.

    "It''s not so easy, Ray. Derek is Michael''s cousin," Evelyn confessed, deciding to share that much information.

    "Oh!" Rayna''s lips rounded in surprise.

    "Yeah. That''s all I can tell you for now," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded.

    They were both silent for the rest of the drive. While Rayna thought about her exchange with Ethan, Evelyn thought about everything Derek had said about his date with Sandra.

    "Evie, I don''t know where I''m driving to. Where do you leave?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn hesitated as she thought of the pros and cons of letting Rayna know her ce.

    She didn''t want a surprise visit from Rayna at any point until she was able to tell her about Samantha.

    "Visteria Lane," she said, deciding to let Rayna drive her up to her street and make sure she got off before they got close to her ce.

    "Oh, I know there," Rayna said and took the route that led there.

    As they approached her ce, Evelyn suddenly eximed, pretending to remember something. "Oh my god! I can''t believe I forgot to get my toiletries. Can you drop me off at the convenience store over there? I need to get some stuff," Evelyn said, and Rayna nced at her.

    "Will you take time? I can wait and take you home," Rayna said, and Evelyn shed an appreciative smile at her.

    "No, you don''t have to. My apartment is just a stone''s throw away," she said, and Rayna looked at her.

    "Are you sure? I took you out, and it''s only right I return you to your house," Rayna said, and Evelyn rolled her eyes yfully.

    "Are you going to walk me to my door and kiss me too?" She joked, and Raynaughed.

    "I''m notfortable with you driving around alone sote in the night. Drop me off and call me off here, and call me the moment you get home," Evelyn said firmly, taking charge of the conversation.

    Rayna relented with a sigh as she pulled over in front of the convenience store. "Alright. You too. Call me when you get home," she said, and Evelyn nodded.

    Evelyn smiled as she got out of the car, "Thanks, Ray. I had fun," Evelyn said, and Rayna waved at her before driving off.

    Evelyn sighed deeply as she watched the car disappear into the night. She longed for the day when things would be lessplicated, and she could finally open up to her friend.

 Chapter 73

    Derek raised a brow when Ethan returned to the table with a frown etched between his brows, "What''s wrong" Derek asked, concerned by his friend''s obvious annoyance.

    Ethan scowled. "Can you imagine your mysterydy''s friend calling me a pervert?" Ethan said, and Derek frowned.

    "You? A pervert? Why would she call you that? Were you the reason she left so angrily? Did you hit on her?" Derek asked, trying to understand why Rayna would say something as offensive as that. "I didn''t. Why would I do that" Ethan asked, annoyed.

    "Who knows? Maybe you shared your ridiculous marriage idea with her," Derek said and Ethan red at him.

    "I didn''t do that. Why would I propose to a total stranger when I can just put out an ad and have severaldies apply then make my choice from? 1 neither did nor said anything to her," Ethan said, and seeing how pissed he looked, Derek could tell he was being serious.

    "Did you ask her why she called you that?" Derek asked, and Ethan looked away, feeling embarrassed to even say what he had been used of "Someone seemed to have touched her inappropriately, and she assumed it was me because I walked past her at the same time. I kept trying to tell her I wasn''t the one but she wouldn''t listen, Ethan exined with annoyance.

    "Oh. I see." Derek said, understanding the situation better.

    "It must have been pretty annoying. I''m sorry, man," Derek said, and Ethan scowled.

    "Why are you apologizing!"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    "Because the is my Evelyn''s friend. I don''t want you to hold it against her, Derek said, and Ethan''s scowl deepened.

    "I already hold it against her, She did too much. She had the nerve to say I look like a pervert, Ethan said through gritted teeth, when he reyed the incident in his mind. "You know what? Let''s call it a night. My night has been ruined."

    Derek nodded since he knew there was no more fun for him at the club now that Evelyn had left. "Alright, let''s go, he said and they both rose and headed out of the club.

    "Maybe this wouldn''t have happened had we all sat together. I was going to introduce her to you" Derek said as they got into the car, and Ethan

    "It''s a good thing they didn''t join us. And why would you introduce her to me? Ethan asked and Derek chuckled.

    "She wanted me to introduce her to my single friend.

    "Of course, she is single! It makes sense that someone like her with that attitude is single," Ethan muttered and Derekughed.

    "She really pissed you off, didn''t she? Derek asked and Ethan nodded.

    to stay single for a long time. You should advise Evelyn to stay away from

    She did. And I can assure you that with that attitude of hers she is going to st her." Lilian savet, and Derek Laughed softly.

    After dropping off Ethan, Derek returned to his suite and as hey on his bed to sleep after freshening up, his mind drifted to Evelyn and how alluring she looked in her dress.

    Sandra was definitely nothingpared to her, he thought. Thinking about Sandra, he sat up, remembering that he ought to give her a call. Checking the time, he saw that it was past midnight alright, so he decided to call her the next morning

    In under for lus n to seed, he needed to lead her on and make her believe he loved her. That was the only way he could use her to get all the evidence he needed to expose Micharl

    Derek''s thoughts drifted back to Evelyn and their earlier conversation, and he contemted calling her to find out if she had gotten home, but he

    decided not to disturb her.

    He was just going to call her in the morning and im he wanted to know how I

    Rayna was doing because he heard what happened from Ethan. The next morning. Derek awoke and after sending Evelyn a good morning text, which he had decided to be sending to her everyday from now on so he would remain in her thoughts, he dialed Sandra''s number.

    Sandra, who had been peacefully asleep, was awakened by the ringtone. Thinking it was likely Michael, she decided to turn off her phone but when

    1:14 PM

    she picked it up and saw Derek''s name shing on her screen, she immediately sat up, joy enveloping her.

    She had fallen asleep while waiting for his call and without a second''s thought, she quickly answered, trying to sound calm.

    "Good morning, Derek," she greeted, her voice a little coarse.

    "Morning, beautiful, Derek replied, his voice smooth and warm. "How did you sleep?"

    Sandra frowned, not liking that he wasn''t apologizing to her first but decided to not say anything about him not calling herst night. "I think I slept well, actually. What about you!" she asked and Derek''s face turned in a wicked smile.

    "Too bad I couldn''t sleep," Derek said, his tone teasing. "I was up all night thinking about you and our date which was abruptly cut short," he said smoothly

    Sandra felt a sudden flutter at his words and she smiled. "Really? Then why didn''t you call me when you got back from your meeting?" she asked. unable to stop herself.

    "I''m sorry I didn''t. I finished quitete, and didn''t want to disturb your beauty sleep as I was certain you must have gone to bed by then." Derek exined, his voice low and sincere, just the way he wanted it to sound

    Sandra smiled, feeling her heart swell. "Well, you should have called. I don''t mind you disturbing my sleep," she said and Derek smirked.

    *I hoped you''d say that." Derek said with a chuckle. "Thanks for showing up yesterday. I really enjoyed yourpany. I hope we can do that again. soon," he said and Sandra giggled, her excitement bubbling

    over.

    "What about today?" She suggested.

    "No. Today can''t work. It''s a busy day for me, Derek said apologetically.

    "It''s okay if you''re busy today. There are other days. I''m not running," she said even though she was slightly disappointed that she wouldn''t see him.

    "Are you sure about it? You''ve been running through my mind a lot," Derek said, and Sandra giggled.

    "That''s such a cheesy line," she said and Derek chuckled.

    "But I do mean it. I''ll work something out and make sure to see you soon," Derek promised.

    "Tll be looking forward to that," Sandra said, happy that things was going smoothly between them. "I have to get ready fo

    for my day now. I''ll call you

    when I''m free," Derek promised before hanging up

    After they hung up, Sandray back on her bed, a satisfied smile on her lips. She definitely could feel it. Derek was falling for her. It was only a matter of time before her n seeded, and she''d be standing by his side as his wife.

    She would be Mrs Stone, Wife of the elusive billionaire and most eligible bachelor in the country.

    What more could she ask for? There was no way she was giving up someone like Derek for someone like Michael Michael could go to hell, she thought with a smirk.

 Chapter 74

    Evelyn woke up with a smile on her face the following morning, after spending the night dreaming of Derek- In her dream they had been dancing together at the club and having fun,

    Her smile had widened when she saw a good morning text from Derek, and by the time she was having breakfast with Maya and Samantha, she was humming a happy tune under her breath. As she watched Samantha eating silently. Evelyn couldn''t help but think about how much she resembled Derek, especially the way heughed so genuinely and carefree

    On days like this, she couldn''t believe that she had a child for Derek. A child with Derek. Derek had given her the best gift of her life, and for that she will always be grateful to him regardless of everything else. Thinking of Derek, her thoughts drifted back to their encounter at the club the previous night and she grinned when she remembered how he had insisted on keeping herpany in Rayna''s absence. She scowled when she remembered how he had told her all about his stupid date with Sandra. It was as if he knew how curious she had been about it even though she never would have outrightly asked him. Although she hadn''t shown it, but she had felt quite ufortable hearing him talk about Sandra the way he did.

    She wasn''t sure if she felt that way because she was worried about how cunning Sandra and Michael could be or because she was worried about Derek ending up falling for Sandra. She sighed and assured herself that Derek would never fall for Sandra.

    She remembered the determination she had seen in his piercing blue eyes and how serious he had sounded when he told her he would find out what happened between her and Michael and expose it to everyone so that everyone would know she wasn''t a bad person.

    The memory of those words brought a smile to her lips. Derek had always been stubborn, but seeing him so set on proving her innocence was so endearing.

    She never would have imagined she left such a strong impression on him six years ago. She hadn''t expected him to care so much about her when they met again, especially after he found out she was Michael''s ex. Yet, here he was, not only determined to help her clear her name, but also set on having her in his life. She was d to know he wanted her as much as she wanted him.

    Samantha, who had been watching her smile andugh to herself all morning, looked up from her bowl of cereals with curious wide blue eyes. "Mommy, did something good happen! Why are you so happy?" she asked curiously,

    Maya, who had also noticed Evelyn''s unusual behavior, looked at Evelyn too as she waited to hear Evelyn''s good news.

    Evelyn was pulled back to the present, and her smile widened when she looked at her daughter''s face and saw the puzzled expression she had

    made

    "I''m happy because I have the best baby girl in the world," Evelyn said, and Samantha''s brows pulled together in confusion.

    "But you''ve always had the best baby girl in the world and you don''t always look so happy," Samantha pointed out, making Evelynugh. "How did I give birth to such a little miss smarty pants?" Evelyn asked yfully and Sumantha giggled.

    "Well, Mommy had a nice time hanging out with her longtime friendst night. Thinking about it makes me happy," she said, her tone light. Samantha''s eyes lit up with interest. "Can I meet your friend?" Samantha asked and Evelyn smiled as she leaned forward, brushing a stray curl a from Samantha''s forehead.

    "Maybe you will someday, if you remain a very good girl," she said, and Samantha bobbed her head.

    "I''m always a good girl"

    away

    "Good girls don''t talk while eating, and good girls always finish their meal, Evelyn pointed out, and Samantha nodded, turning her attention back

    to her cereal with renewed enthusiasm

    "You should hangout with her more often, Samantha said after a moment.

    "You''re brin

    re bring a bad girl, she pointed ourughing, and thankfully Samantha focused on her meal.

    As they resumed their breakfast, Evelyn''s thoughts drifted once more, this time to Rayna''s words fromst night and how she had urged her to go for Derek and uplicate things

    1:15 PM

    Uplicate things. Evelyn repeated in her head and almostughed at the simplicity of it but held back herself, not wanting another round of questioning from her daughter.

    Rayna had always been the type to dive headfirst into whatever she wanted, consequences be damned. But Evelyn knew better than to think things were that easy, especially with Derek.

    Still, the thought lingered. What if things were as simple as Rayna made them seem? What if, for once, she allowed herself to take a chance on something she knew could go wrong? Where would things go then? Would they really go wrong?

    Her musings were interrupted by the sound of her phone vibrating on the table. She nced down and a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips when she saw it was her

    §¹§Ö§â§ä§à§ä.

    ire had always been a source offort, a steady presence in her life despite everything that had happened between her and the family and Evelyn appreciated that more than she could say, "Hello, Mom," Evelyn greeted warmly as she answered the call.

    "Hello, dear. How are you doing today? And how is Sam and Maya?" ire asked, her voice soft and motherly.

    phone,

    Sandra who had just stepped out of her room to get a can of juice from the fridge paused by the door when she heard her mom on the p wondering who Sam and Maya were.

    "We''re doing fine," Evelyn replied, ncing at Samantha, who was now humming to herself as she ate. "We are in the middle of breakfast." That''s good to hear," ire said, and there was a pause, and Evelyn could almost see the thoughtful look that would be on her stepmother''s face. "Are you free today? I was thinking ofing over," ire said thoughtfully and Evelyn''s smile widened at the thought of spending the day with her stepmom

    "Yeah. I''m free. And you should know you''re always wee here, Mom, Besides, Sam''s been missing you and going on and on all week about Grammy ire. She will be excited to see you." Evelyn assured her.

    ireughed happily, "Alright. I will be with you by noon. I will bring some food over if you don''t mind," she said, and Evelyn rolled her eyes. "I''ve told you severally that you don''t need to go through that trouble, but since you insist, then we can as well enjoy your Michelin star standard meal," Evelyn said making ireugh.

    "See youter, Evie, ire said before ending the call.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

    Sandra, who was still standing by the kitchen door, narrowed her eyes as she pieced together all she had heard.

    At first she had thought her mother was having an affair, and that Sam and Maya were her lover''s kids, but after hearing her mom mention Evelyn''s name, it became clear that her suspicion that her mother knew were Evelyn lived, was true.

    Who then was Sam and Maya? She mused.

    Now that the opportunity had presented itself, she was going to make good use of it, Sandra told herself as she returned to her room to get ready.

    She intended to tail her mother and find out where Evelyn lived. She was going to find out all she could about Evelyn and find a way to make her disappear.

 Chapter 75

    Sandra kept a close watch on her mother all morning, waiting for the moment she''d leave the house so she could follow her.

    Her patience was rewarded when she saw her Mom heading out, and without wasting time, she quickly followed, keeping a safe distance from

    ire.

    ire''s drove through the familiar streets of Ludus until it came to a stop in a neighborhood Sandra didn''t recognize

    She watched intently as ire approached a particr house. Sandra''s curiosity was piqued when the door opened, and she saw Evelyn standing there, weing her mother inside.

    It was now obvious to her that her mother had been in close contact with Evelyn since Evelyn returned. She must have known Evelyn had left the hotel thest time, yet she hadn''t said a word to her.

    Her mother knew where the witch lived, but she pretended she didn''t know anything She wished her mother would act like a true step mother to Evelyn and not suck up to her like that, showing her love and concern she was supposed to give to daughter alone.

    She was annoyed at her mother, but she was more angered by the bitch for trying to take her mother away from her and getting everything even though she didn''t deserve them.

    She scowled as she watched ire disappear inside with Evelyn. Sandra''s eyes wandered to the front yard, as she tried to look around where Evelyn had been hiding herself, and she couldn''t help noticing a small pink bicycle leaning against the wall.

    It was clearly a child''s bike, and she couldn''t help but wonder who might own it and why it was there. Was Evelyn staying with a kid? Or was she married and had one? She mused andughed at the absurdity,

    How could she have a kid Evelyn was the perfect daughter and would never have a child out of wedlock. Sandra reminded herself.

    She paused when she remembered her mother asking about Sam and Maya. Who were they? she mused and then decided to keep an eye on Evelyn now that she knew where she lived. She was going to find out who Sam and Maya were, and she was most definitely going to find owned the pink bike.

    who

    Satisfied with her discovery for the day now that she knew where Evelyn stayed, Sandra turned her car around and decided it was time to pay Rayna a visit. She needed to put her next n into action immediately.

    She had a smirk on her face as she drove to Rayna''s bakery. Once she arrived, she parked her car and dialed Rayna''s number.

    "Hello, Ray, a drop of golden sun," Sandra greeted yfully when the call connected

    Rayna smiled, but her eyes were narrowed in suspicion as she responded, "Hello, Sandy Rayna greeted, wondering why Sandra seemed to only reach out to her after she hang out with Evelyn. "Are you at the bakery!" Sandra asked, her tone friendly.

    "Where else would 1 be on a Saturday Rayna replied, still surprised to see Sandman call.

    "That''s good to know, Sandra chirped as she got out of her car.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Rayna paused, curiosity piqued. "Why do you ask?"

    "Why don''t you wait and see for yourself? Sandra said pleasantly.

    A momentter, the door to the bakery opened, and Sandra stepped in. Rayna''s

    Rayna''s face was full of surprise when she saw Sandra

    andy) What a pleasant surpriser Rayna eximed with a broad smile as she took off her apron and chef hat before walking over to Sandra.

    warm but her eyes

    I was around the block and thought I''de by to say hi and pick some of these delicious snacks, Sandra said, her smile war calcting

    Rayna smiled back but still couldn''t help thinking that it was too much of a coincidence that Sandra always seemed to show up or call right after she bang out with Evelyn servers in serve them coffee and

    she wondered if Sandes was up to something, but she didn''t let her suspicion show. Instead, she asked one of her serv marks higher offer before leading Sandra away to her office. linde her office. Kayna grand to a rat "Hease make yourselffortable"

    As familia took firm seat, she looked around Kayna''s offer, which looked surprisingly ner. "You seem to be doing trally well for yourself," Sandra

    said in a tone that raised Rayna''s eyebrows.

    "Did you think I wasn''t?" Rayna asked, and Sandra quickly realized her slip, and sheughed.

    "Of course not. I''m just saying maybe I shoulde so you employ me," she joked, and Rayna scoffed as she ordered them both

    "I never would have imagined that you''d visit me. This calls for a celebration," Rayna said with a teasing smile.

    Sandraughed softly as she leaned back in her chair. "For real, Ray, I''m sorry I don''t call often or hang out with you, she said with an apologetic smile, but Rayna waved her off.

    "It''s not a big deal. I totally understand. Things get busy," she said and Sandra nodded.

    "Thanks for your understanding. So, how''s the school reunion n going?" Sandra asked, trying to sound genuinely interested and Rayna shrugged. It''sing together perfectly, I hope you haven''t forgotten that it''s in two weeks, Rayna replied, her tone casual.

    "Nah. I haven''t forgotten. It''s going to be a good opportunity to catch up with everyone. I''m hoping it will remind Evic of the good old times, and she wille around," Sandra said, and Rayna raised a brow. "What do you meane around!" She asked, since she was still curious about what was going on between Evelyn and Sandra.

    Sandra sighed, "I''m sure you must have noticed that things are not like they used to be between us," Sandra said with a forlorn expression.

    Rayna nodded and paused when the waiter brought in their coffee and snacks. After the waiter left she continued. "I can''t say I haven''t noticed. What exactly happened between you both?" she asked curiously, wondering if Sandra would tell her.

    Hearing Rayna''s question, Sandra smiled inwardly, pleased that Evelyn was yet to tell Rayna anything. Well, she was just going to be the first to confide in Rayna since Evelyn was the bigger person. Sandra leaned forward in her seat, "Honestly, I have no idea what went wrong with Evie, she said, and Rayna frowned.

    "What do you meant"

    1 she confessed, her toneced with a

    Sandra hesitated, as if reluctant to spill the details. "Evelyn is angry with me because I''m still close to Michael," mix of regret and frustration.

    "You won''t believe that she went as far as pushing me down and emptying her ss of wine o Michael," she said and Rayna''s eyes widened in surprise

    on me at our parents anniversary just because I invited

    "Evelyn did that to you? When? Why would she do such a thing! I didn''t think she was capable of such a thing, Rayna said with a frown, wondering why Evelyn would do that.

    "I was just as shocked and embarrassed. I would never have expected that she would do something like that to me, Everyone witnessed it, Ray. Our parents, our guests, even my fianc¨¦, Sandra said, looking deeply hurt,

    especially not in public.

    "I''m sorry, Sandy, but that doesn''t sound like Evelyn, Rayna said, confused by what she was hearing.

    "Right? The same way cheating doesn''t like Evel.. oops, Sandra said, raising a hand to her lips as though she had revealed something she wasn''t supposed to reveal.

    Kayna''s eyes w

    widened, her expression turning serious. "What do you mean by that?" She asked as she watched Sandra sip from her coffee while avering her gaze.

    Sandra waved it off, "Let''s not talk about that Forget I said anything."

    Rayna studied her for a moment before deciding to drop the subject, but she couldn''t help feeling uneasy. She wasn''tfortable talking about Evelyn with Sandra

    you were

    "Yeah, I think we should stop talking about Eve. So, are youing to the reunion alone or with your fiance! By the way, I didn''t know yo engaged" she said, changing the subject.

    Seeing how easily Rayna changed the subject without pressing for details, Bandra seethed inwardly, but forced a smile. "We are keeping it lowkey for now, And I n toe with him if he''s not very busy then Sandra said, and Rayma nodded.

    Before Rayna could say anything. Sandra spoke again, "Despite everything Evelyn has done, I still hope we can go back to the way things used to be. I''m sure she''s acting this way towards us because whenever the sees Michale the feels gully about cheating on him. And my remaining close to him makes her see him often," she said and Hayna merely stared at her without saying a word

    Kayna''s expression remained neutral as she wondered why Sandra was saying such things about Evelyn? What was she really trying to achieve?

    100

    1:15 PM

    Rayna couldn''t shake the feeling that Sandra was trying to poison her mind against Evelyn, but for what purpose?

    As they finished their co

    coffee, Rayna''s thoughts remained on Evelyn. She couldn''t quite believe Sandra''s words, and the more she thought about it, the more she felt that Sandra had ulterior motives. She resolved to keep an eye on Sandra, unsure of what she might be nning next.

 Chapter 76

    Evelyn and ire satfortably in the living room, watching Samantha as she yed with her toys on the floor, and ire couldn''t help but remind Evelyn about some of her childhood antics Evelyn found herselfughing at those memories, allowing herself to derive joy from her childhood without thinking of Sandra since ire made sure to talk about the memories involving just Evelyn, Maya and Samantha also joined in theughter as Samantha asked more questions about Evelyn''s childhood.

    As theirughter died down, Evelyn''s phone rang on the dining table and she excused herself to go receive the call.

    A wide smile spread across her face when she picked up her phone and saw the caller ID. It was Liam.

    "I need to take this, Mom, Evelyn said, still smiling as she walked into her bedroom to receive the call

    "Hello. Doel" she greeted cheerfully.

    "Hello, Editor-In-Chief, Lism greeted, and Evelyn gizzled.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "Not yet. It''s still unofficial, Evelyn said, happy to hear from him

    "Well, I trust you, I''m sure you''re going to get it. How are you doing?" he asked cheerfully.

    "I''m fine. How are you? How have you been!" Evelyn asked, feeling a tug of guilt because she had not called him since she moved to Ludus

    "I''m alright. How is my little plum doing?" He asked, and Evelyn grinned.

    "She''s fine. She misses you.."

    "What about your Do you miss me too!" Liam cut in

    "Of course, I do," Evelyn said with a smallugh.

    "Does that mean you won''t mind letting me see your face?" he asked and Evelyn grinned

    you mean a video call or a picture Evelyn asked thoughtfully

    "A video call. And please get my little plum on the phone too, Liam said, and Evelyn nced towards the living room where she could hear Samantha asking ire a plethora of questions "Alright. Give me a moment." Evelyn said, and once she got back to the living room, she switched the call to video call and the moment it connected her screen lit up with Liam''s face, and she waved at him and she smiled before turning the phone to Samantha.

    "Sammy, guess who wants to say hello" Evelyn said, and when Samantha saw Liam''s face on the screen she screeched excitedly.

    "Liam She cried with a wide smile as she rushed to her mother''s side.

    "Sammy, girl! How is my favorite linle girl in the world doing? Liam asked with a wide smile while ire watched them with interest as they exchanged pleasantries with Liam, wondering who Liam was. She would have thought he was Samantha''s Dad, but that didn''t seem to be the case considering how she was addressing him by his name.

    "When are youing to see us, Liam?" Samantha asked curioudy.

    "Soon," Liam promised. "And when I do, I''m bringing that doll I promised you, remember?" he asked and Samantha''s eyes lit up.

    The one with the princess dress?" she asked and he nodded.

    "That''s the one" Liam confirmed, smiling at her.

    "Yay! I can''t wait!" Samantha eximed happily.

    "It won''t be long, pumpkin. But you have to be extra good until then, okay?" he said and Samantha grinned.

    "I will Samantha promised, nodding vigorously.

    Evelyn watched the exchange with a soft smile, her heart warming at how easily Liam connected with her daughter. He had always been like that with Samantha and had abrays been a part of her life. "Cool girl. Now give the phour back to Mommy, Liam said and Samantha handed the phone back to Evelyn.

    to ask me e

    When Evelyn took the phone back, she yfully chided him, "You shouldn''t spoil her so much, Liam. Now she''s going to you''reing and I don''t know what excuse I''ll give her," Evelyn said and Liam smiled.

    "That''s exactly what I want, Liam said with a wink. "Keeps me on your mind, doesn''t it?" he asked and Evelynughed.

    "As if I could ever forget about you or what you''ve done for me," Evelyn said with a smile.

    me every day when.

    They chatted a bit longer, catching up on each other''s lives, before finally saying their goodbyes. As Evelyn turned to face her Stepmom, she caught her watching her with a wide smile.

    *He makes you smile a lot, doesn''t he? Seems like a good guy to me whoever he is, ire said, a knowing look in her eyes.

    "Yeah." Evelyn said, still smiling, oblivious to whatever ire meant. "He was my obstetrician when I was pregnant with Sammy and since then, we''ve been friends. He''s been such a good friend to me," Evelyn exined.

    "He seems to care

    to care about Sam a lot, ire noted, her tone thoughtful. "You could hear it in the way he talked to her," ire said and Evelyn nodded.

    "He does. People used to think he is her Dad, but that''s just the way Liam is," Evelyn said, brushing it off

    "If that''s what you think," ire said, her tone suggesting she thought otherwise.

    "Sammy, I want to speak with Mommy alone, can you please excuse us?" ire asked and Samantha rose, as did Maya

    "Mummy can I go to the park?" Samantha asked, looking at Evelyn with a hopeful smile.

    "Sure," Evelyn said without hesitation since the park was just around the block and she wanted Samantha to meet other kids her age and establish solid friendship before she resumed school the next week. ire waited until Samantha and Maya had left the house before turning to Evelyn with a serious expression. Seeing this, Evelyn braced herself, knowing that ire was about to say something that would make her ufortable. She only hoped it wasn''t about her rtionship with Sandra..

    "From what you said just now, I guess Sammy''s father has never been in the picture since her birth," ire said, and Evelyn nodded, her earlier smile fading.

    "He doesn''t know of her existence. Evelyn said and although ire wanted to ask her why and what happened, she didn''t.

    "And you don''t n on bringing him into the picture?" She asked again, and Evelyn hesitated.

    "It''splicated," she said, and then remembered what Rayna had said about that being an excuse.

    "Well, I think it''s time to introduce a father figure to Sam. Don''t you think so?"

    "I know that. But I''m not ready for that right now," Evelyn said and ire looked at her.

    "It''s not about what you are ready for Parenthood is all about sacrifice, especially motherhood. Sam is getting older, Evic. Every child needs a father figure in their life for bnce. If you''re not ready to meet someone new, then maybe you should consider letting her father be a part of her life. He''s alive isn''t he?" ire asked and Evelyn nodded.

    "So!"

    "It''s not time yes, Evelyn said quietly.

    "Not time? When is the right time, Evie? And what exactly are you waiting for?" ire asked, concern evident in her voice,

    Evelyn didn''t answer immediately. She wasn''t sure she had an answer that would satisfy either of them. Instead, she just sighed. "I don''t know, Mom. I just know I need more time," she said and ire nodded slowly, her expression softening,

    "Alright, Evie, Just remember, Sam looks up to you. She''s going to follow your lead, whatever that might be. So, you have to put her best interests first before yours, ire said and Evelyn nodded, grateful that ire didn''t push further.

    Deep down she knew ire was right, but she also knew the time wasn''t right. She would tell Derek about Samantha after everything had been resolved, but not a moment before then.

 Chapter 77

    Derek by on his bed, his eyes glued to his phone, as thoughts of Evelyn clouded his mind.

    After sending her a good morning text earlier, he had been hoping to get a call from her to at least scold him for sending her a text or maybe to say she liked it even though he knew that was unlikely to happen.

    Seeing as the day was far gone and he hadn''t heard from her, he contemted calling her to ask if she liked it so he could hear her voice even if was for a second,

    After contemting for a while, he smiled when an idea hit him. He could call under the pretense of wanting to find out what had happened between her friend, Rayan, and Ethan. Without wasting any more time he dialed Evelyn''s line.

    Evelyn, who was alone in the house after her stepmother left, since Maya and Samantha were not back from the park yet, was lying on her bed thinking about Derek when his call came in.

    Her lips curved in a smile when she saw the call, but she rolled her eyes as she received it, "Hello, Mr. Stone," she said, not because she felt like addressing him formally, but because she wanted to get a rise out of him.

    "Ah! I see we are back to the formalities, Derek said, and she stuck her tongue in her check.

    "What do you want?" She asked in a cool tone

    "Are you going to give me what I want if I tell you? I want you naked on my bed and writhing under me with your..."

    "Stop" she said, shutting her eyes to block out the picture that his words had painted.

    Derek chuckled, "You asked what I wanted," he said, rising from his bed to walk around his room.

    "Did you get my text

    my text this morning! I''m sure you did. Why didn''t I get a response?" He asked, and Evelyn sighed.

    "You know why you didn''t get a response. I''ve told you before. If it isn''t a work rted conversation, I don''t want.. "Why are you so damn stubborn, Eve?" Derek asked with mock frustration

    "I should be asking you that," she retorted.

    "Well, that''s not why I called," Derek said, changing the subject, and she raised a brow.

    "So, why did you call? Is it about the interview!" She asked with undisguised curiosity.

    "Ethan told me what transpired between him and your friend at the clubst night. It was a misunderstanding.."

    "Ethan'' The jerk she talked about was your best friend?" Evelyn asked in disbelief

    "Ethan isn''t a jerk. I can assure you that Ethan would never touch anyone inappropriately. He was pretty upset..."

    "And so was Rayna. He could have just been a gentleman instead of saying mean words to her." Evelyn said, and Derek shook his head.

    "You weren''t even there and you''ve picked sides already. If your friend had listened to him instead of calling him a pervert he wouldn''t have said anything harsh to her. Ethan doesn''t take kindly to some words, and pervert is one of them, Derek exined.

    "Well, I guess they were both wrong" Evelyn concluded.

    "Yeah. So, what are you up to today?" Derek asked, and she pursed her lips, wondering how best to answer his question

    "Tim" she trailed off when she received an iing call and she pulled the phone away from her ear to check who was calling.

    it

    She smiled when she saw it was Rayna, "I have to go now. I have another call. Bye" she said, and quickly ended their call since she wasn''t sure how the conversation with him would go from there. "Hey, Ray?" Evelyn greeted cheerfully the moment she received the call pleased with Rayna''s perfect timing

    "You sound excited to hear from me today." Rayna observed with a smile and Evelyn giggled.

    "Of course, Lam. I was fast talking about you before you called," Evelyn said, and Rayna raised a brow

    "Really? Me too." Haynu said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Krally? What were

    were you talking about and with who?" Evelyn asked curiously.

    "Well, you go first," Rayna suggested.

    "Remember Derek? From the clubst night?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna raised a brow.

    "Yeah. The guy you want and who wants you but you can''t date him because it''splicated," she said dryly and Evelyn giggled.

    "What a way to say it. Well, apparently, the guy you used of being a pervert happens to be his best friend and he

    "Damn!" Rayn?

    cussed, and Evelynughed.

    "Can you imagine how awkward it would be if I were to cross path with him again? This is one of those times you hope you never see someone again. Now I''m just going to hope things remainplicated between you and Derek, so I never have to run into him again." Rayna said, causing Evelyn to holler withughter now,

    "Rx. It''s not that deep Evelyn said amidst herughter.

    "Let''s hope so. Anyway, can you guess what happened today?" Rayna asked, changing the subject.

    Evelyn chuckled. "You caught the person that touched you at the club?" She asked, and Rayna groaned. "Don''t remind me, please."

    "Okay. You know I''m terrible at guessing. So, shoot."

    "Alright, alright. Sandra came to visit me at the bakery today," Rayna revealed,

    Hearing this, Evelyn couldn''t help the prickle of unesse she felt at the mention of Sandra. "Sandra visited you?"

    "Yeah," Rayna confirmed and Evelyn swal

    allowed.

    "Well, that shouldn''t be strange, right? I mean, you''re both friends too, and I''m sure you both have been in touch all these years," Evelyn said easily

    "Well, it is strange. I think she''s trying to poison my mind against you," Rayna said, her voice growing serious.

    "Why would you think that?" Evelyn asked, her brow furrowing in confusion as she wondered what Sandra had been up to

    "She said a lot of things about you that made me believe she visited me specifically to badmouth you" Rayna said, and then went on to tell Evelyn what Sandra had said about her behaviour at the anniversary party.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn rolled her eyes as she listened. Typical of Sandra. She thought with a shake of her head. "Well some part of that is true," she said and Rayna raised a brow.

    "Really? What part?" Rayna asked curiously

    "The part where she said I poured wine on her," Evelyn said and Raynaughed.

    "Wait, what? You actually poured wine on her?" Rayna asked, surprised.

    "Yes, I did. And that was only because she was trying to put up a show that I pushed her down. So, I figured if she''s going to paint me as a bitch. 1 should as well for the picture," Evelyn exined and Rayna hesitated before speaking again.

    "Does that mean it''s true that you chested on Michael?"

    "Cheated on Michael Sandra told you that!" Evelyn asked in disbelief.

    "Yeah. Although she didn''t outrightly say it. She hinted at it," Rayna exined,

    I she told you, why are you asking

    ig met" Evelyn asked and Rayna smiled even th

    though Evelyn couldn''t see it.

    "Because you''re my friend. I told her that doesn''t sound like you. So, I want to hear directly from you, Evie. I''m not going to believe just anything I hear about you without hearing it from you. I will only believe whatever you tell me," Rayna said, her voice calm but insistent

    Evelyn''s heart raced as she processed Rayna''s words. Despite everything Sandra had told her, Rayna was still giving her the benefit of the doubt even though she hadn''t exactly told her anything.

    She wasn''t blindly believing Sandra''s usations, she was asking her for the truth. At that moment, Evelyn realized how much Rayna valued their friendship, and it touched her deeply. Rayna was a true friend and she deserved to know the truth.

    Rayna having been waiting for Evelyn to say something spoke up again when the silence had stretched for too long. "I won''t judge you, Evie. I will never judge you, okay? So, you don''t have to worry. And if you still want me to wait until you''re ready to tall, I will she promised.

    Evelyn swallowed hard, her throat suddenly dry. "Thank you, Ray. But you don''t have to wait anymore. I promise to tell you everything when neXT we see each other, Evelyn said and Bayna smiled.

    12:15 PM

    "Really? Are you sure?" She asked, sensing how difficult this was for Evelyn.

    "Yes. I am," Evelyn said her voice firm. "Why don''t you visit me tomorrow?" she asked and Rayna smiled, d that Evelyn was finally ready to open

    up to her

    "Tomorrow it is then," Rayna agreed. "But I hope you know that you really don''t have to tell me anything unless you''re ready?" she asked and Evelyn smiled.

    "I know and I also know that there''s no one else I would rather confide in but you," she said and Rayna nodded.

    "Alright them. Text me your address and I''ll see you tomorrow."

    After they hung up, Evelyn sat back on her bed, feeling a strange sense of relief. For the first time since she returned to Ludus, she felt like she wasn''t carrying the burden alone anymore.

    cared for her as a

    as a friend.

    She had someone she could trust in Ludus now. Someone who wasn''t tangled up in the web of her past like Derek, but someone who genuinely

    The thought made the weight on her shoulder feel a little lighter, and for that, Evelyn felt grateful.

 Chapter 78

    After Derek''s call with Evelyn, he paced around his room feeling restless. He had thought hearing from her would make him miss her less, but it only increased his longing for her.

    Derek decided to give Ethan a call so they could hangout together and take his mind off Evelyn. He dialed the line and Ethan picked up after a few

    rings.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    "Hey, man!" Ethan greeted the moment he received the call

    "What''s up! Are you busy!" Derek asked casually.

    "I''m hanging out with Melvin. His wife is pregnant. You won''t believe the distance she is making us drive to go get her some pastries and cake. I''ve heard about pregnancy cravings, but this is wild. She insists she only wants snacks from this bakery. If she wasn''t carrying my nephew, I would leave Melvin to handle this alone," he said, and Derek chuckled despite the pang of disappointment he felt.

    "So, who''s going to run such errands for your contract wife when she gets pregnant and you''re away!" Derek asked, and Ethan chuckled.

    "That''s why I have you and Melvin. You both will take care of her," Ethan said confidently.

    "By the way, why did you call! Were you missing me?" He asked, and Derek snorted

    "Nals. I called to check on you to see if you''re feeling better considering how pissed you werest night," Derek said, not wanting to tell Ethan the

    reason he called

    "Don''t remind me of that, please," Ethan st?d with a scout and Derek chuckled.

    "Alright. Talk to youter," Derek said before hanging up. He tossed his phone onto the bed and sighed.

    Sitting an

    around wasn''t going to help. He needed to clear his head. Maybe some fresh air would do him good, he told himself as he grabbed his car key and jacket and headed out

    As Derek drove through the city, he found himself heading in a direction he hadn''t intended, and before he knew it, he was on the road leading to Evelyn''s house.

    Knowing that Evelyn wouldn''t appreciate him showing up at her doorstep, Derek drove down to the park close to her house, that way if for any reason he caught a glimpse of her, he could say it was coincidence.

    As he pulled into the parking lot, the sight of the greenwns and tall trees offered a small sense of relief.

    Derek stepped out of the car, taking a deep breath of the cool evening air. The park was quieter than he expected, with only a few families scattered around, kids ying on the swings, and couples walking hand in hand.

    As he walked along the path, he tried not to think about anything by focusing on all that was going on around him.

    Suddenly, out of theer of his eye, he spotted a small figure running towards him, her bright, happy voice ringing through the air.

    "Rek!" he heard and then turned, just in time to see Samantha racing toward him, her tiny arms outstretched.

    A wide smile broke out on his face before he could stop it. He bent down just as she reached him, scooping her up into a big hug while offering Maya who wasing behind her a curt nod. "Hey, Sam! I missed you, kiddo," Derek said, genuinely surprised by how much he had missed her and how happy he was to see her.

    Samantha''s blue eyes were wide with excitement, her small hands gripping his shoulders. "I missed you too, Rek! Did youe to see me?" She asked, hoping he hade to the yground in search of her.

    Derek chuckled, feeling a warmth in his chest that he hadn''t felt all day. "I''ve missed seeing you too, Sam. I kept going to the yground at the hotel, hoping I''d run into you there, but I didn''t know you were here. I''ve been at the hotel. That''s where I stay, remember!" he asked and her lips formed a small ''o

    Samantha smiled, d that Rek hadn''t forgotten her. "This is where Ie now," Samantha said, her voice serious as if exining something very important. "It''s closer to our house. Why are you here if not to see me?" she asked and Derek chuckled.

    *I guess my heart led me to you, I was passing by and decided to check. Do you like it here?" Derek asked, while Maya watched them.

    Maya couldn''t help but wonder what the connection was between Derek and Samantha and why Samantha seemned so taken with him.

    50

    She wondered what Evelyn would think if she saw Samantha clinging to Derek that way, but then again, she reminded herself that Evelyn knew about Derek already, since Samantha had told her about her friend called Rek.

    Samantha shook her head at Derek''s arstion, "I like it but I''m not having as much fun as I had with you the other day. Can youe here to hang

    12:15 PM 0

    to disappoint her, Derek nced at Maya and then back at her.

    out with me often?" she asked hopefully and not wanting to d

    "I cane y with you on Saturdays if your Mom is okay with it, and wouldn''t mind," he said and Samantha beamed.

    "Yes. She knows about you and she wont mind," Samantha said confidently, her eyes bright with excitement.

    Derek nced at Maya and the thought of her not being Samantha''s Mom crossed his mind again. As much as he wanted to ask her, he didn''t want to be rude. "Pinky promise with me, so I know you''re not lying," Samantha said, breaking into his thoughts..

    Derek couldn''t help butugh softly, "Alright, alright. Pinky promise," He said and linked his pinky with hers, sealing the deal, leaving Samantha to rejoice happily.

    Derek turned to Maya, "Can I have your number? That way I can let you know on days I won''t be able toe y with Sam," he said, and Maya hesitated. "Please," Samantha pleaded, making a cute face, and Maya reluctantly gave Derek her number.

    "Can we y a little now?" She asked, and Derek grinned.

    "Sure," he said, happy to while away the time with his little friend.

 Chapter 79

    Ethan followed his brother Melvin into the cozy bakery cafe, inhaling the delicious scents of freshly baked bread and pastries and brewing coffee, which wrapped around him like a warm hug.

    He hadn''t been thrilled about the errand, but Melvin had insisted, iming his pregnant wife had a craving that only Ray''s Bakery could satisfy Ethan had never been to the ce before, but as he stepped inside, he found himself appreciating the inviting atmosphere with its wooden beams and cheerful floral arrangements

    Melvin, on the other hand, walked in like he owned the ce. He moved with the case of familiarity, waving at the young woman behind the counter, who greeted him with a bright smile..

    "Hey, Melvin Back so soon?" she called, her eyes sparkling with recognition.

    "You know my wife," Melvin said with a good-natured chuckle.

    ckle. "She''s craving Bay''s croissants again. If I don''t bring them home, I''m a dead man!

    The baristaughed, nodding in understanding. "I''ve g

    got you covered. Fresh batch just came out of the oven

    "Awesome! Is Rayna in?" Melvin asked hopefully

    "She stepped out to get something down the block, but she''d be back soon"

    Ethan watched the exchange with mild amusement, his curiosity piqued. He hadn''t realized his brother and his wife were regrs here. "So, the famous bakery that Sarah keeps raving about." Ethanmented, looking around. "Not bad"

    Melvin grinned, nudging Ethan''s shoulder. "Not bad! This ce is a lifesaver. They have the best pastries in town.

    "Easy with the exaggeration, Ethan said, and Mekan chuckled.

    "A trial will convince you. Come on, let''s grab a table and have some muffin and coffee before we head out Melvin suggested, nodding to the barista to serve them.

    pastries croissants, muffins, cinnamon rolls, and other

    Ethan nodded, his mouth watering at the sight of the disy case filled with an array of pa treats that looked too good to resist,

    After ordering some muffins and two cups of coffee, they slid into one of the booths.

    Tahan picked up one of the muffins and but into it as they sat down. His eyes closed involuntarily as he savored the taste. He had to admit that Melvin was right and the baker was good. it with approval.

    "This tastes really good. I didn''t know a muffin could taste so good," he said

    Told you" Melvin said with a grin, taking a bite of his cart. "Best in town"Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

    Melvin leaned back in his chair, taking a sip of his coffee. "You know, Ethan, you shoulde here more often. The owner, Rayna, is a really lovelydy. She''s single, too: Sarah and I have been thinking of introducing you two. I bet you''d hit it off."

    Echan raised an eyebrow, hiding his smirk behind his coffee cup. "Oh? Are you trying to set me up, Mel! Is that why Sarah insisted wee here today!"

    Melvin shrugged, a yful glint in his eyes. "Just saying, you''ve been single for too long. Rayna''s great. She''s beautiful smart, and kind, and she makes a mean chocte cake. What more could you want?"

    "Is this about what I want, or about you and Sarah wanting a sister-inw who can make a mean chocte cake for you!" Ethan asked. He had yet to tell his brother about his n to put up an ad for a wife. "Well, that''s a given, but you''re the one who gets to have an amazing woman," Melvin said with a grin.

    Before Ethan could respond, the door to the bakery swung open, and Rayna walked in, dressed in a casual bat chic outfit, her hair pulled back in a next ponytail.

    "Speak of the devil," Melvin said with a wide smile. "Raynal Over here!"

    On hearing her name, Rayna''s eyes scanned the room briefly before she spotted Melvin, who was waving her over with a big smile.

    Curious, Ethan humed to look, and his stomach dropped. He recognized her instantly the same woman he had argued with at the club-the same woman who had used him of being a pervert. Oblivious to Ethan''s displeasure. Melvin grinned as Rayna approached, "Beautiful, isn''t she!"

    Rayna pained, her smile fading as she took in Ethan''s presence. "You?" she asked, wondering what he was doing these and if perhaps Derek had sent hiar cover to apologize to her.

    12:15 PM dd.

    "What are you doing here?" Ethan dernanded at the same time, his voice cold and sharp.

    "I could ask you the same thing." she said, her tone cautious,

    Melvin looked between the two of them, clearly confused. "Wait, do you two know each other?¡±

    Melvin

    "What is she doing here, and who is she to you?" Ethan asked, and Melvin frowned.

    "She is the one I was just telling you about. How do you know her?" Melvin asked, looking from one to the other.

    Kayna

    Ethan shot out of his chair, his face a mask of anger. "I can''t believe this. You own this ce?" he asked, his voice sharp with disbelief. When R: nodded, he let out a bitterugh. "I''ve been eating something you made? Unbelievable."

    Rayna''s face flushed with embarrassment, her eyes wide with regret. "Look, I." Rayna tried to say, but Ethan didn''t wait to hear her out.

    He pushed his chair back, standing up abruptly, his jaw clenched in anger. "I''m out of here, Mel," he said and stormed out of the bakery without. looking back, leaving Rayna standing there, stunned. Melvin called after him, but Ethan ignored him, disappearing out the door. The little bell above it jingled with his departure, leaving an awkward silence in its wake. Melvin turned back to Rayna, his expression a mix of bewilderment and concern

    "What just happened? I''ve never seen him so pissed. Did something happen between you and my brother?" Melvin asked in confusion.

    Rayna nodded, biting her lip as she watched Ethan''s retreating figure through the window. "We met once before. It didn''t go well. It''s...plicated," she said, her voice soft. "You should probably go after him, Melvin."

    Melvin hesitated, ncing back at the door. "I don''t know what''s going on, but you''re right. I''ll talk to him. Thanks, Ray. And I''m sorry about this."

    Rayna shook her head, offering him a small, reassuring smile. "It''s okay. Go on."

    Melvin nodded, giving her a grateful look before hurrying out after Ethan. As the door closed behind him, Rayna stood alone in the middle of her bakery, her heart pounding. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

    What manner of coincidence was this? All this while she had heard of Melvin''s brother from his wife, Sarah, but had never seen him, and then all of a sudden, she is meeting him now after a misunderstanding at the club?

    "Way to go, Ray. You''ve got rotten hack"

 Chapter 80

    Evelyn was in the kitchen, her hands busy with dinner prep, but her mind elsewhere, thoughts of her conversation with Rayna carlier upied her mind as she tried to figure out what Sandra was up to.

    She was jolted back to reality when she heard the front door burst open. Samantha''s voice rang through the house, a high-pitched excitement that brought a smile to Evelyn''s face as she quickly wiped her hands on a dish towel and hurried out to meet Samantha.

    "Mommy! Mommy! Guess what?" Samantha''s small feet pounded against the floor as she raced into the dining, her face flushed with enthusiasm.

    "What is it, sweetheart?" she asked, her eyes sparkling as she knelt to her daughter''s level.

    *1 met Rek!" Samantha eximed, bouncing on her toes

    Evelyn''s brows shot up in surprise. "You did! At the park?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

    Samantha nodded vigorously. "Yes! Can you believe it?" Samantha asked, and Evelynughed, delighted for her daughter who had reconnected with a lost friend

    "That''s wonderful, baby. Was he there to y too?" Evelyn asked, genuinely curious.

    "He was driving by and saw the park, so he stopped to see if I was there. And I was!" she said, her voice bubbling over with excitement.

    Maya was tempted to cut in and say that wasn''t exactly what Derek had said, but she didn''t want to dampen Samantha''s excitement, so she quietly watched with a smile on her Face.

    "He said he missed me and kept looking for me at the yground," Samantha said, her eyes gleaming with joy.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn''s heart warmed at the thought of the little boy who had made such a strong impression on her daughter Now she was dying to meet the kid.

    "I guess he lives close to

    Evelyn asked, and Samantha shock her head.

    to the park?"

    "No, he still lives at the hotel." Samantha replied, herne matter-of-fact. ¡°That he said he''lle to the park to y with me every Saturday! And he took Maya''s number so he can call if he can''te. Right, Maya?" she asked, and Maya nodded.

    Evelyn smiled, feeling a sense of relief. It was nice to know that Samantha had made a friend, someone who cared enough to keep in touch. "That''s great, honey. Did you meet his parents? Or his nanny?" she asked, wondering if she''d have a chance to meet them too, perhaps arrange a ydate.

    Samantha giggled at the thought that an adult like Derek would have a nanny. "No, Rek was alone. But he promised toe y with me every Saturday," she repeated, her eyes shining with anticipation

    ta

    Maya frowned, wondering why Evelyn was asking that sort of question about a grown man like Derek

    "I guess he was alone with his driver then," Evelyn said, wondering how wealthy the kid''s parents must be if he was still living at the hotel, and could afford to drive around so leisurely.

    Evelyn felt a wave of gratitude for this thoughtful friend who was making her daughter so happy. She reached out to smooth back a strand of Samantha''s hair, her smile softening. "You know, Sam, maybe you could go to the same school as Rek. Would you like that?"

    Maya, who was still Estening from the doorway, felt a sudden realization dawn on her. Evelyn had been assuming all along that Rek was a child, not an adult.

    Maya decided to correct Evelyn and exin that Rek was actually Derek Stone, the owner of Stone Pce Hotel, but before either her or Samantha could say anything, Evelyn''s phone rang, cutting through the air.

    Evelyn took her phone out of her pocket and nced at the phone screen. She raised a brow when she saw Rayna''s name shing "Go wash up sweetie," she said, getting to her feet. "I have to take this. We''ll talk more about Rekter, okay?"

    Samantha nodried, and Evelyn kissed her forehead before walking towards the living room to answer the call.

    Maya watched Evelyn leave, feeling a knot of worry in her stomach. She had to find a way to exin the situation before it get out of hand.

    Maya turned back to Samantha, whose eyes were still shining brightly. "Sammy, did you tell your Mommy that Rek is a kid?"

    Samantha shook her head. "No. Do you think Mommy thinks Rek is a kid?

    Maya nodded, "Yes: We can''t let her keep thinking that. Okay! We have to tell her the truth, and maybe she can see him if hees around next Saturday," She said, and Samantha bolibed her head. She wanted Derek in meet her mother and see how beautiful she was, so that they could both get married

    Samantha smiled as she remembered her conversation with Derek while Maya was not close enough to hear.

    12:15 PM dd-

    Samantha looked up at Derek with big curious eyes. "Rek? Are you married?" she asked,

    Derekughed. "That''s a big question! I''m not married yet, Sam. Why do you want to know?"

    Samantha thought for a moment. "I want you to marry my Mommy! She''s so pretty! And she''s nice too. You would like her"

    Derek smiled as he nced at Maya who was keeping an eye on them from the distance. "That''s very sweet of you, Sam. But don''t you think your Mommy should pick her own husband?" Samantha shook her head. "No no no! I want you! You are nice. And you''re handsome like a prince. My Mommy likes princes

    Derek chuckled. "Well, I''m ttered, he said, then decided to ask her the question on his mind,

    "Isn''t that your Mommy?" He asked, jerking his head towards Maya.

    "Maya?" Samantha asked, and when he nodded, she shook her head.

    "No. Maya is my nanny and she takes care of me when mommy is busy. My mommy is not Maya," Samantha said, and Derek nodded, realizing his mistake this whole time. "Oh, I see."

    "My Mommy is very pretty, and she doesn''t have a boyfriend," Samantha said, and Derek nodded, not knowing what more to say to that.

    This wasn''t a conversation he should be having with a little girl, especially as he knew he would be disappointing her and had no idea how best to turn her down. He had someone he liked and even if he didn''t, there was no way he was going to allow a little girl y matchmaker.

    "Liam says my Mommy is the best woman in the world. You will like my Mommy when you see her. She is really pretty and smart," Samantha promised confidently

    Thankfully, Derek was saved from the conversation when Maya approached them to say it was time to leave.

 Chapter 81

    "Hey. Ray! What''s up!" Evelyn asked the moment the call connected.

    "Evelyn! You will not believe what just happened!" Rayna''s voice came through loud and high-pitched, nearly causing Evelyn to pull the phone away from her ear. Evelyn''s smile faded as she heard the strain in Rayna''s voice. "What happened? Are you okay?

    Rayna''s breath wasing out in gasps, like she had been running or maybe just talking a mile a minute. "I wish the ground would just open up

    and swallow me,"

    "Calm down, Ray. What''s wrong?" Evelyn asked, concerned.

    "I ran into him. Evelyn, ran you believe it? I ran into the guy from the club again?""

    ere did you meet him?"

    Evelyn''s eyes widened. "Wait, you mean Ethan'' The guy you called a pervertst night? Where

    "He came to the bakery! Can you believe that?" Hayna''s words tumbled out, her excitement palpable. "You should have seen his face He was so angry when he realized I baked the muffins he ate, Evelyn. If looks could set someone aze, he would have set me and the Bakery aze. And then-"

    "Kayna, slow down," Evelyn intermapted, trying to keep up with her friend''s rapid speech. "He was at the bakery, and he recognized you. What did you say to him?"

    Rayna''s voice dropped slightly, tinged with a hint of frustration. "I didn''t even get a chance to say anything! He stormed out before I could exin or apologize. Can you believe that? He just walked out Evelyn!"

    Evelyn exhaled, a mix of relief and concern washing over her. "Maybe it''s for the best," she said, trying to soothe her friend. "I mean, he probably needs time to cool off. But I''m sure he''ll get over it eventually. You did call him a pervert, after all."

    "That was an honest mistake. Anyone would have done the same in my shoes," Rayna said defensively.

    "If"

    f you want, maybe I could ask Derek if he could set up a meeting or something? You know, just so you can apologize properly" Evelyn suggested.

    Rayna considered it for a moment, then shook her head. "No, I think I might run into him again. I''m starting to think this might be fate.

    Evelyn mised a brow, "Fair" She asked in confusion.

    "Don''t you see, Evie? This has to mean something. I mean, what are the odds of running into him again! First, we met at the club, and I had no idea he was your Derek''s.."

    "Not my Derek." Evelyn corrected, but Rayna continued as if she had not heard her.

    "friend. And then I meet him at the bakery only to realize he is Melvin''s brother."

    "You know his brother?" Evelyn asked with interest

    "Yeah. His brother and sister-inw are my regrs, and they always used to talk about him but I''ve never seen him. If this were a movie or one of those romance web novels I love, it would mean we''re meant to be, right! Like destiny or fate or something?"

    Evelyn rolled her eyes, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "Rayna, seriously? You need to stop watching so many kdramas and reading those silly romance novels. They''re getting to your head. You''re too old for these fantasies."

    Haynaughed, a light, carefree sound that made Evelyn smile. "You''re never too old to believe in a litle romance, Evelyn. What if this is fate? What if I meet him again by coincidence? That would be the third time. Isn''t there some saying about the third time being the charmm""

    Evelyn sighed, shaking her head even though Rayna couldn''t see her. "Okay, let''s say you do run into him again. What then? Are you just going to apologize, or are you nising to make him your boyfriend?" There was a brief passe on the other end of the line, and Evelyn

    d thenAll content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ask him to be my boyfnend. I mean, why not! Every romane almost see Rayna''s mischievous grin. "Why not both III apologize and t

    has a beginning, and maybe what happened at the club was ours.

    Evelyn chuckled, unable to help herself. "You''re unbelievable, Rayna. I wish you good luck with asking a guy you''ve already called a pervert to be your hoyfriend. Tim sure that will go over well" "Hey,at could work." Kayna shot back, her tone yful. "Stranger things have happened"

    *Need I remind you that he told you you ser en''t his type?" Evelyn pointed out.

    weren''

    Kaynaughed again, but before she could respond. Evelyn caught a whiff of something acrid. She turned her head towards the kitchen, the stuell od scaunching kaming teaching her nose. Her eyes widened in horror. "Oh no, the food?" she eximed. "Ray, I have to go Tisi buning diwwert"

    12:16 PM cd

    She hung up quickly, not waiting for Rayna''s response, and rushed to the stove. Smoke was curling from the skillet, and she grabbed an oven min, quickly turning off the heat and moving the pan to a cool burner. She coughed, waving away the smoke with her free hand, and sighed. Dinner was definitely ruined.

    "Mommy, something is burning." Samantha said as she and Maya came out to check what was burning

    "Yes, darling. It''s not burning; it is burnt," Evelyn said as she stared down at the charred remains of what was supposed to be a healthy stir-fry.

    It seemed like a night for takeout, after all..

    "I hope you both don''t mind having pizza for dinner," she said and chuckled when Samantha''s cycl lit up.

    "Yay! I love pizzal

    "Alright. Give me a minute to ce an order for it," Evelyn said as Maya moved around to clean up the mess in the sink.

    Once Maya finished, she went to the living room to join Evelyn and Samantha, who had settled down on the sofa and were watching a show on Nickelodeon, "I need to talk to you about something," Maya said as she sat down opposite Evelyn.

    Evelyn looked from the television to Maya, "Sure."

    "I just realized that you''re mistaken about something. Samantha''s friend, Rek, isn''t a child"

 Chapter 82

    "What are you talking about Evelyn asked, folding her arms as she regarded Maya with a raised brow

    Maya cleared her that, suddenly feeling a bit nervous under Evelyn''s scrutinizing gaze. "Evelyn," she began, choosing her words carefully, "I mean. Samantha wasn''t talking about a child. Rek is an adult." Evelyn blinked, her smile faltering "What do you mean an adul?¡°.

    Maya hestated, casting a quick nce at Samantha, who was nodding vigorously. "He is a grown man."

    For a mom

    a moment, Evelyn didn''t respond. her brain struggling to process the information. She felt a cold shiver race down her spine. "What?" she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Maya rushed on, sensing the tension building "I''m sorry I didn''t tell you earlier, Evelyn. I thought you knew. I mean, I assumed when Samantha talked about Rek, you knew he was an adult. I didn''t think he woulde across as a child-

    Evelyn''s face paled visibly, her heart skipping several beats. "You let a stranger spend time with my daughter?" she asked, her voice rising in pitch, her gaze sharp as it focused on Maya. "A man we know nothing about?" She asked as she rose from her seat.

    Samantha piped up. "But Mommy, Rek is not a stranger! He''s my friend!" She looked from her mother to Maya, confusion clouding her youngN?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Evelyn turned to Samantha, her expression harsh "Hush, Samantha. This is an adult conversation. Go to your room," she ordered as she picked up the remote controller and turned off the television. Samantha''s face fell, and she rose from her seat, her steps slow and reluctant as she walked away. Maya waited until Samantha was out of earshot before she spoke again, her voice a touch defensive. "Evelyn, I didn''t think

    "Exactly, Maya! You didn''t think!" Evelyn cut in sharply. "What if he''s a kidnapper, a child trafficker or a pedophile targeting Samantha? Did you

    Even consider that?"

    Maya''s o eyes widened, and she shook her head quickly. "No, I didn''t think that at all. He seemed like a decent man, Evelyn. He was polite, and he genuinely seemed to care about Samantha''s wellbeing" Evelyn let out a shon, disbelievingugh. "And how do you know that, Maya? Because he seemed decent? You can''t judge a person by a few polite words and a smile?

    Maya''s face flushed, and she looked down. "I''m sorry, Evelyn. 1 really am. I should have told you sooner. I just... I didn''t see any harm in it. Mir Stone has been nothing but kind to Samu "Wait What?" She asked, her heart skipping a bear

    "I said he''s been nothi...."

    "Mr what?" Evelyn cut in

    "Mr Stone. Rek is actually Mr. Stone. The owner of Stone Pce Hotel," Maya exined, hoping this would make Evelyn calm doin

    But instead of calming her, Maya noticed her words had the opposite effect.

    Evelyn''s breath wasing faster, her mind racing as she tried to piece together the implications of what she''d just heard. "Mr. Stone... Rek?" she repeated, as if trying to make the name fit into the chaotic puzzle of her thoughts, "The Derek L."

    It hit her then, like a physical blow, knocking the wind from her lungs. Her knees felt weak, and she had to grip the back of the chair to steady herself. Rek was Derek. Derek Stone. Her Derek, Samantha''s father.

    Maya, noticing Evelyn''s pallor, stepped forward, concern etched on her face. "Evelyn, are you alright!"

    Evelyn shook her head, unable to find her voice. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. How was it possible that despite all her efforts to keep Sarmantha away from Derek, he had found her! Not only found her but had effortlessly be a part of her daughter''s life from the moment they ser foot back in Ludus.

    "I need to be alone," Evelyn managed to say, her voice strained and shaky. Without waiting for a response, the nimed and hurried to her room, the door closing behind her with a soft click.

    As soon as she was inside, Evelyn''s legs gave way, and she sank to the floor, her back against the door. Her breathing was erratic, her chest tight with panic. How had this happened?

    How had she not figured it out this whole time? All those times Samantha had mentioned Rek, and she had simply assumed it was a child.

    She remembered all the times Samantha had told her about Rek from the very first day they had arrived and checked into Stone Pce Hotel

    She thought of Rayna''s words about fate and destiny. Was this what she had meant! That no matter how hard Evelyn tried to escape, Derek would always find his way one way or the other into her life? Into Samantha''s life?

    Her heart ached at the thought of Samantha''s innocent smile, her eyes lighting up when she talked about her friend Rek. How was Evelyn supposed to put an end to that friendship and separate them now, especially when Samantha clearly adored him?

    "What am I going to do now?" she whispered to herself, her voice choked with emotion. She pressed a hand to her chest, trying to calm the wild beating of her heart.

    Was she to let them keep being friends? At least that way Samantha would get to spend time with her father even though she didn''t know he was the

    one!

    What if Derek knew she was Samantha''s Mom already? What if he had seen them together or Samantha had told him about her and that was the reason he had approached Samantha?

    The sound of the doorbell cut through the silent apartment and Evelyn took a deep breath before walking out of her bedroom to go answer the pizza delivery guy.

    "I took it already." Maya said, holding out the box.

    "Thanks. You can go ahead," Evelyn said as she nced at Samantha''s bedroom door.

    "Evelyn, I''m very sorry. I really don''t know what I was thinking.."

    "It''s fine. I need to talk to Samantha, Evelyn said, and headed for Samantha''s bedroom

    Samantha who was lying on the bed and sobbing quietly looked up when her mother walked in

    *Mommy, Rek is good to me. I like him. I want him to be my friend, she cried as though she could read Evelyn''s mind and tell that she wanted to put an end to the friendship.

    Evelyn sat on the edge of the bed and brushed Samantha''s tears away, "Tell me everything about Rek. How did you meet him? Did he talk to you first? What did he say to you? What have you said to him'' Did.." Evelyn caught herself when she realized she was asking too many questions at a time.

    She decided to focus on the two most important questions and the find out the rest slowly. "Did Rek talk to you first?"

    Samantha shook her head and told Evelyn how she had met him at the lobby and advised him not to hold his phone too closely to his eyes.

    "I asked you not to talk to strangers." Evelyn said with displeasure.

    "You also said to help strangers," Samantha pointed out and Evelyn sighed.

    "Have you told him anything about me? Does he knew your Mommy''s name?" She asked, and Samantha looked away guiltly, making her heart skip a beat.

    "He knows my name?" Evelyn asked and Samantha shook her head quickly.

    JON.

    "What did you tell him about me?" Evelyn asked with a worried frown.

    "Don''t think of lying to me. Sammy." Evelyn warned and Samantha''s lips quivered.

    "Don''t be mad, Mommy. I told him you are pretty and i want him to marry my Mommy, Samantha said, and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat No No No. She couldn''t let this continue. She had to keep Samantha away from Derek for the ume being.

    had found cas

    But how could she do that when Samantha had already let Derek into her heart? How could she keep them apart now that they h

    Evelyn lourd her eyes to stop her tears from falling as s

    she gathered Samantha into her armis,

 Chapter 83

    Evelyny awake on her bed for most of the night, thinking about. Derek and his friendship with Samantha.

    She knew without a doubt that the only reason Derek could have gone to the park was because he was thinking of her and probably didn''t want to show up unannounced at her doorstep She had been the one to show him the park and had unknowingly helped him reunite with Samantha.

    What could she do?

    As night slowly gave way to morning. Evelyn finally dozed off and woke up a momentter to the familiar ping of her phone, indicating that she had received a new message. Still half-asleep, she reached over and picked it up from the bedside table, squinting at the bright screen.

    Her heart skipped a beat and the sleep disappeared from her eyes as she sat up when she saw she had two texts and one of them was a good morning text from Derel When was he going to stop sending her these texts? She mused, feeling a pang of guilt

    Not wanting to dwell on Derek''s thoughts, she tapped on Rayna''s text and sighed when she saw that the text was to let her know Rayna would being over by noon.

    She was d that she had decided to confide in Rayna. That meant she could share her present worries with Rayna and get sound advice

    As much as she would have loved to confide in Margaret about this new development, she needed someone who was present, and she also knew Rayna would understand best since she would understand better her rtionship with Sandra and Michael and why she was hiding Samantha.

    With a sigh, Evelyn got out of bed to go check on Samantha. She had promised Samantha that they could bake cookies, and she wanted them to get a bead start on it before Rayna arrived.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    A short whileter, as they all sat to have breakfast, Maya looked at Evelyn, still feeling guilt-ridden, "Evelyn, about yesterday, I''m sorry," she said, and Evelyn sighed.

    After her conversation with Samanthast night, Evelyn had not bothered to talk to Maya again, and even now, she wasn''t sure what to tell Maya.

    She contemted telling Maya the truth about Defek so that Maya would better keep Samantha away from Derek, but she wasn''t sure if that was the right thing to do

    "It''s okay. If he calls you, let him know that Samantha''s Mom disapproves of his meeting with Samantha_

    "No, Mommy!" Samantha protested as tears spring to her eyes

    11

    Ignoring Samantha, Evelyn held Maya''s gaze. "From now on, Samantha is prohibited from going to the park on weekends. You can take her there when she gets back from school during the week, but she can no longer step a foot out of the house on Weekends unless I''m taking her out myself. Am I clear! Evelyn asked, and Maya nodded.

    "Yes, ma''am.

    Without finishing her breakfast, Samantha dropped her spoon and pushed back from the table, causing Evelyn to raise her brow. "Where do you think you''re going? Sit down and finish your food," she ordered gently.

    "I don''t want to eat," Samantha said with a sad poet, and a fat drop of tears rolled down her cheeks.

    "Why?" E

    Evelyn asked as she looked at

    "I''m sad. I want to be friends with Rek" Her lips wobbled as she spoke.

    "Why do you want to be friends with him?" Evelyn asked, even though her heart broke at seeing her daughter looking that sad.

    Maya, on the other hand, picked up her te and excused them since she was done eating and really didn''t want to see Samantha crying over

    Derck

    As far as she was concerned, Derek was a nice man, and Evelyn was overreacting by trying to keep Derek away from Samantha. She believed that the best way Evelyn could have handled the situation was to bivice Derek over and get to know him

    But then again, no one asked for her opinion, and Samantha wasn''t her child, so she couldn''t determine what was best or not for the kid. Mayra reasoned as she left them

    "Rek is very nice. I like him, and he bikes me too, Samantha said, and Evelyn nodded.

    12:16 PM ? ?

    do you like him?" Evelyn asked, wanting to understand the attraction.

    "Because... ''cause he is kind," Samantha said, unable to exin her reason for liking Derek, "You will know when you see him."

    "Well, I''m sorry, darling, I don''t want to see him, and I don''t want you to be friends with him anymore..."

    "Why?" Samantha asked in confusion.

    "Because I don''t want it. Don''t worry, baby, I will meet Rek in the future, and when the timees, I will let you be friends with him. But for now, you can''t meet him anymore. You trust me, don''t you?" She asked, and Samantha nodded.

    "You know I love you and will only do what is best for you?" Evelyn asked, and Samantha nodded again as she brushed off her tears,

    "Then listen to me, baby. I love you and wouldn''t do anything to hurt you. I have my reasons for asking you to stay away from Rek, I promise," she said as she held out a hand to Samantha, and she rose from her seat to take her hand.

    Evelyn wiped the tears from Samantha''s eyes, feeling sorry that she had to make such a decision for the time being until she was able to resolve everything and exin it to everyone.

    "Let''s go bake some cookies. That should put you in a better mood," Evelyn suggested as she rose and cleared the table while a sullen Samantha followed her.

    "And

    guess

    what? You''re going to meet

    meet Mommy''s friend today," Evelyn said excitedly, trying to cheer Samantha.

    "I don''t want to meet your friend." Samantha murmured as she watched Evelyn do the dishes.

    "Why not, darling?" Evelyn asked curiously.

    "You don''t want to meet my friend. I don''t want to meet your friend too, Samantha said, and Evelynughed despite herself.

    "Alright. You don''t have to meet my friend if you don''t want to. But she''sing over soon, and if you want us to bake those cookies, we have to start now. So, what is it going to be! Are you going to keep sulking? Or are you ready to bake cookies?"

    Samantha considered her mother briefly. "I can be friends with Rekter, just not now," she asked, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Sure. Don''t ask me why."

    "Okay. Let''s bake the cookies," she said with a resigned sigh

 Chapter 84

    By the time Kayna rang the doorbell at noon, Evelyn and Samantha had finished baking the cookies and were snuggling together, watching an episode of Dora the Explorer.

    Evelyn answered the door with a bright smile. "You''re right on time," she said, holding out the door for Rayna

    "If I coulde at the crack of Dawn, I would have, I could barely sleep a winkst night cause I was too busy wondering about your big reveal," Rayna said as she walked past Evelyn, and Evelynughed. "Ray, I''d like to introduce you to someone," Evelyn said just as Rayna walked into the house.

    Rayna stopped abruptly when her eyesnded on Samantha, who was standing some feet away. Immediately, her expression softened. "Oh my goodness, who is this line angel?" she asked, ncing at Evelyn suspiciously before returning her attention to Samantha.

    "Hello! What''s your name? Rayna asked as she crouched down to Samantha''s level.

    "Samantha," Samantha said shyly as she looked from Rayna to her mother and then hack again.

    Evelyn smiled proudly. The little angel is my daughter. Rayna, meet my daughter, Samantha. Haby, this is mummy''s close friend, Rayna." Evelyn introduced, and Rayna looked at her with questioning eyes but decided to leave the questions forter

    "And this is Maya, Samantha''s nanny."

    1. ny. Evelyn said, gesturing to Maya, whom Rayna acknowledged with a curt nod.

    Rayna beamed at Samantha. "Aren''t you just

    st the most adorable little girl? You look beautiful, just like your mom, Hayna said, genuinely in love with Samantha

    Samantha giggled, "Thank you.

    You look p

    .

    pretty, too, and you smile like cake, Samantha said with a smile, and Raynaughed as she embraced her.

    "I do, don''t Do you like cakes!" Rayna asked, and Samantha babbed her head.

    "Then I''m going to bring you some when next Ie around." Rayna promised as she straightened.

    After they were done with the introductions. Evelyn nodded to Maya, and she led Samantha out of the living room to her bedroom.

    Rayna watched them leave, her gaze softening. "She really is an adorable child, she said, turning to Evelyn

    Evelyn''s smile grew. "Yes, the is. She''s my greatest blessing, she said s smiled.

    sofily."

    . ¡°I can''t imagine my life without her." Evelyn said fondly, and Rayna

    "I guess she is the reason you''ve changed so much, and she is the reason you didn''t let me visit before or tell me anything. Rayna said. understandably, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Yes, she is. Come, let''s sit down. I have so much I want to share with you," Evelyn said, and together, they walked into the living room and sat on the couch.

    "Is she Michael''s?" Rayna asked the moment she was seated.

    Evelyn quickly shook her head, her expression growing serious. "No. Samantha is not Michael''s daughter. What can I get you! Tea? Coffee! Soda!" She asked, and Rayna shrugged.

    "Water is fine. I smell cookies. Can I have some! I want to eat something I didn''t bake for a change," she said, and Evelyn Laughed as she rose to go get her a ss of water and some cookies. Once Evelyn returned and settled down. Hayma turned in her seat to look at her. "Go on. Evie. I want to hear everything. But first, tell me it''s not a coincidence that she has blue eyes like Derek, Rayna asked thoughtfully.

    Evelyn winced. Rayna had always been a smart one. She wasn''t exactly book smart, but she was good at deducing things apart from when it came to who tapped her ass at the club

    "I''s not adence

    "It''s not! Does that mean you cheated?" Rayna asked, dropping her voice

    Evelyn shook her head, "No, I didn''t. It''s a long story, Ray, I don''t know where to stan, Evelyn said, and Raynaughed.

    "Rayna said with a grit, and Evelyn

    "Well, I guess it''s a good thing I can easily fit into your clothes. You can take your time. We can talk all night, Ray Laughed voly

    Evelyn took a deep breath and took a nunate to gather her thoughts before she began to speak. "Well, guess I should start with the reason I called off the wedding." Evelyn said and went on to tell Kayna bow she had walked into Michael''s apartment and seen him with Samdra and what she had

    12:16 PM d

    "You''re kidding me, right" Rayan asked in disbelief, but Evelyn shook her head.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    "I wish I were," she said, and Rayna''s brows pulled together.

    "Oh, my god, Evie! That must have been terrible!" Rayna said, reaching out to grab Evelyn''s hand as she thought about it.

    Evelyn nodded, "It was. You can''t imagine how devastated I was. I was shocked, heartbroken, confused, embarrassed, mad, all at once," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded her eyes filled with understanding. "Absolutely. Anyone would be," Rayna said, and Evelyn went on to tell her how she had run into Derek and everything that followed up until she left Ludus six years ago.

    Rayna listened intently, her expression shifting from surprise to understanding as Evelyn continued. When Evelyn finally finished, Rayna didn''t know what to say.

    She was silent for a minute as she disgested all she had heard, and then she shook her head, "I don''t know how you''re so calm Evie, but if I were in your shoes, that bitch would be six feet under by now, and I''d be chilling in jail," Rayna said, and Evelynughed involuntarily.

    "I''m not joking. Evie! It''s not even funny! That filthy bitch! To think she had the guts to show up in my bakery and y the victim card! I should shave off all the hair on her head so she can look like the ugly vulture she is!" Rayna cussed angrily.

    "Calm down. Ray. Don''t worry. They will both get what they deserve soon," Evelyn said and then went on to tell Rayna about how she had reunited with Derek and all that Sandra and Michael had done. "Why won''t they just let you be? And why is she going after Derek? Thank God he isn''t falling for their lies," Rayna said, and Evelyn sighed. "Now I see why you said things wereplicated, Rayna murmured. "It really is," she said and then looked at Evelyn thoughtfully.

    "So, what do you intend to do about Derck being Samantha''s father? Do you think you''ll ever tell him?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn sighed. "You won''t believe what I just found out," Evelyn said and went on to tell Rayna about Samantha''s friendship with Derek. "Blood is indeed thicker than water. You know you can''t hide the truth forever, right? And I think it''s best you let them both continue their friendship. Let him get to know his daughter. He doesn''t need to know she is yours yet They can keep being friends, Rayna suggested

    "I''m not sure, Ray. How long do you think it will be before he insists on meeting her Mom? I just want to keep this secret until after we expose Sandra and Michael I don''t want them to twist the narrative. I know what those two are capable of," she said, and Rayna sighed.

    "I understand where you''reing from. This is all soplicated," Rayna said with a frown.

    person she truly is Rayna said,

    "Im going to cut Sandra off at once. I don''t want that cunning bitch anywhere near me now that I know the kind of p stinking her nose with disgust.

    Evelyn shook her head. "You shouldn''t do that, she said, and when Rayna looked at her in confusion, she exined. I believe Sandra is trying to get close to you so she can use you against me, she continued, and Rayna''s face hardened even more.

    "Isn''t that another reason I should stay away from her? Rayna asked, and Evelyn shook her head.

    "No. If you cut her off, she would just find other means to get to me. So, it''s best we keep her close. Could you y along with Sandra? Let her believe you''re on her side. That way, we can be a step ahead of her and know what she is really nning. Evelyn said and Rayna nodded. understanding what Evelyn was saying.

    "Don''t worry, Evie, I will do whatever I can to help you. I can''t have her do all these things to you and think she will win. No way, Rayna said, and Evelyn smiled.

    Thank you, Ray. I''m d I can count on you," Evelyn said, and Rayna squeezed her hand.

    "I wish you had confided in me back then, you were, Rayna said, and Evelyn smiled.

    Evie. I hate to think about how you suffered alone. I can''t even begin to imagine how hurt and broken

    "It wasn''t easy, but I''m okay now," Evelyn assured her.

    "You know what? Since we''re doing this, I think we shoulde up with a code or something-something only we can easily use tomunicate," Rayna said, and Evelyn nodded thoughtfully.

 Chapter 85

    As Evelyn sane Rayna off to her car a couple of hourster, Kayna turned to her with a serious expression. "If you ask me, Esse, I think instead of just sitting back and waiting for Derek to handle Sandra and Michael, you should be more proactive. Are yoni really past going to rx when you know they are highting you! You should stand up and fight back. Give them blow for fucking blow," she und, and Evelyn sigheid.

    "Do you think I haven''t thought about it, or I don''t want for I would like to. But Have in think about Samanthu.

    "You''re hiding behind Samantha, Evelyn," Rayna said, and Evelyn frowned.

    "Yes. Where is the Evelyn that poured the wine on Sandra at the party! You know, of all you told me today, that was the meat impressive part. I like det you dicha''t stand there helplessly crying and trying to defend yourself. I like that you acted like thetch the tried to paint yescas Can you imagine how shock, she must have been when you did that Rayna asked, and Evelyn smiled, remembering the shock she had seen on Sandra''s

    fice then

    "She did look really shocked" Evelyn said, and Hayna giggled.

    "Exactly! That''s what I think you should do, Ever Stop being the calm and mature girl. It''s annoying and irritating. Fight backt II Derek, take her from him. Let her know that you have Derek in your palen, and he is yours. Let her know how it feels to see what you taken away," Rayna said passionately as they stood by her car.

    *Samantha is your hidden card. Evic. She is not a disadvantage. She is an advantage. Apart from Derek''s interest in you. Samantha is the eilge you have over Sandra. Your daughter is a Stone. Do you think anyone could use that against you? The story that you weer with a lover wind be useless when everyone knows it was herek

    "Hut I don''t want my business out there that way." Evelyn said, and Rayna groaned in exasperation.

    "You''re frustrating me, Evelyn! In life, you have to fight for what you want. Life isn''t going to past throw handouts at you

    what you want and go for it. You want Derek? Then don''t let Sandra have him. Show Derrk that you want him: Stup pushing him away. If he is fighting for the both of you, the least you can do is to be more receptive to his feelings, especially since you feel the same way," Rayna said, and Evelyn sighed as she contemted Rayna''s words,

    "Do you really think it''s right I mean, my being with Michael''s cousin!" She asked, and Rayna rolled her eyes.

    "Do you think it is right that Michael is with your step-sister? You haven''t done anything wrong You haven''t done anything to be ashamed. I think you should throw out that good and mature Evelyn and be as peny as Sandra is now Don''t just avond her trouble by being on the defensive anymore. You should be on the offensive now. Be the bad bitch!" Rayna said, and Evelyn piggled. "You''re al

    a bad influence, Ray," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded.

    "Yep. The exact kind of influence you need to deal with Sandra. She has gotten away with her nonsense for long enough. It''s time for you to give her a taste of her own medicine. I get that you haven''t told your parents about it yet because you do not have any evidence, but you won''t have any evidence if you keep minding your business this way. Join forces with Derek Rayna advised

    Ray, why are you talking about this now! I mean, we were indoors for over four hours talking and watching TV, but you dad ay any of this." Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded.

    "I was thinking about it the whole time, and 1 was also scared that I might rate my voer and Samantha would hear is," she exined, "Listen. Evor. for Samartha''s sake, you need to fight Sandra head on. Do you have any idea how much damage Sandra can do to your erpuration if she finds out about Samantha before you reveal her yourself? Don''t give that snake anything to use against you." "Alright. I''ve heard you. I will think about all you''ve sand," Evelyn promiseid.

    "You had better. I''ll keep an eye on the snake, don''t worry" Hayna promised embracing Evelyn before getting into her car

    Evelyn stood there, smiling and waving at Rayna until her car disappeared front view, and then Evelyn sighed deeply as she returned inside. Evelyn had never felt more relieved in the post six years than she felt now that s new she could lean on someone as dependable as Rayna: For the rest of the day, all Evelyn could think about needed to be on the repuve now

    Kayna had kind. She had been calm the long enough. To protect Samantha she

    rady in go in bed after Samantha had been tucked in her phone rang, and her heart skipped a beat when she saw it was Derek.

    had kid about being more pportive of Derek, she received the ca

    unded when be noted that she did

    to him collly as Mti

    12:16 PM d''?N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Evelyn smiled, "Why do you think so?"

    *You sound so. Did something good happen?" He asked, and she nodded.

    "Sort of. How are you doing?" She asked, changing the subject.

    "Did you just ask how I''m doing? Or were you trying to ask why I called?" Derek asked in disbelief.

    This time, Evelynughed softly, amused by Derek''s reaction to her easygoing demeanor.

    "I don''t know what happened to brighten your mood, but I hope whatever it is happens every day going forward," he said, and she rolled her eyes.

    "I guess you''re fine then," she noted.

    "Yeah. How was your day? Did you go out?" Derek asked conversationally.

    "No. I was indoors all day, Rayna visited, and we just hung out," Evelyn said, and Derek smiled, enjoying the flow of the conversation.

    "Talking about Rayna, Ethan told me he ran into her yesterday. She owns a bakery, Derek said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Yeah. You should ask him to calm down, though. Ray made an honest mistake. He shouldn''t hate her for it. And the least he can do is give her a chance to apologize. Evelyn said, and Derek sighed. "Sure. I''ll let him know. And I didn''t call to talk about them," he said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Why did you call then? Called to tell me about another date with Sandra?" She asked, and Derek scowled.

    "I wanted to see you yesterday. I missed you so much and wanted to see you. But you won''t believe what happened," he said, and she raised a brow

    "What happened?" she asked, suspecting that he wanted to tell her about Samantha.

    "I decided to hang around the park in your area, and luckily, I reconnected with a little friend of mine. Can you b that told Evelyn he still couldn''t believe it,

    -What

    "What little friend?"

    believe it!" Derek asked in a tone

    "Her name is Sam. Samantha. She''s the cutest, smartest, and sweetest kid I''ve ever met," Derek said, and Evelyn''s heart fluttered.

    He really thought Samantha was all of that? She mused.

    "You must adore her," Evelyn said, and Derek chuckled.

    "Absolutely. I had no idea how much I missed her until I saw her yesterday. I''ll introduce you to her one of these days. We agreed to meet on Saturdays when I''m free," he said, and Evelyn winced when she heard how excited he sounded.

    "I don''t think her parents are going to want strangers meeting up with their kid," Evelyn said, wanting to prepare his mind for the disappointment ahead.

    She knew that following Rayna''s advice, she was supposed to tell Derek about Samantha. But now

    ow was not the time.

    She was not ready yet, and even if she was, it wasn''t going to be a phone conversation,

    "Well, she did say her Mom knows about me. So, I don''t think I will be considered a stranger. I miss you, Evelyn," Derek suddenly said, causing butterflies to flutter in her belly.

    "I know you miss me too, even though you won''t say it. I know you''re holding back, Derek said when she didn''t say anything

    "I miss you, too," Evelyn whispered, and before Derek could respond or react, she quickly hung up.

 Chapter 86

    Derek chuckled as he stared at his phone in disbelief. Did Evelyn just say she missed him! Derek asked himself,ughing happily.

    What had changed, though? Why was she suddenly being this way? He mused as hey down.

    Well, today was a good day. He could go to bed now with a smile on his face

    Dereky in bed, a smile tugging at his lips. Evelyn had said it- she missed him. The words echoed in his mind like a soft melody, filling him with warmth and satisfaction. He had hoped for so long to hear something like that from her, and now that he had, sleep came easily.

    When he woke up the following day, the remnants of that smile were still there, his mood as light as the sunlight streaming through the curtains. Stretchingzily, he reached for his phone, ready to start the day in the best way possible. His fingers moved quickly over the screen,posing at good morning message.

    [Thanks to you, I slept with a grin and woke up with a smile on my face. You''re always on my mind. Good morning, my jewel]

    Satisfied, he sent the text, feeling a slight flutter of excitement in his chest at the thought of her reading it. He imagined her smile as she did, and it made the early start to the day all the more pleasant. With a quick shower and a light breakfast, he was out the door, heading for the office with a spring in his step.

    While Derek was getting ready to leave for work, Evelyn was seated in the back of the cab, her arm draped protectively around Samantha as they

    meared the school.

    It was her daughter''s first day, and both of thern were jattery. Evelyn could see it in the way Samantha''s tiny fingers twisted the hem of her dress and the quiet nces the little girl cast out the window. Maya sat in the front seat, asionally looking back to check on them.

    The hum of traffic filled the air, and Evelyn absentmindedly opened her phone, wanting to find something funny to entertain Samantha. Then she kaw it: Derek''s good morning text.

    Her heart skipped a beat, and a smile spread across her face.

    Seeing his message now, it was hard not to feel warm ini had been wondering if he wasn''t going to send her a good morning text as usual.

    She bit her lower lip as she quickly type a reply. Good morning, Derek. You''re on my mind, too.]

    She pressed her lips together and closed her eyes as she pressed send, feeling like a silly teenager.

    Derek''s message had lifted her mood despite the nervousness she felt for Samantha. Maybe she''d stop by his officeter and surprise him with her presence.

    "We''re here," the driver said, pulling up to the school, Evelyn nced out the window, and she smiled at the scene outside. Parents were dropping off their kids, some children clinging to their mothers, others running excitedly towards the entrance.

    This had been the same school she had attended all those years ago, anding here to drop her own baby overwhelmed her with an inexplicable feeling. Perhaps it was nostalgia since she remembered being dropped off by her father on her first day at school.

    As they got out of the cab, Evelyn knelt beside Samantha, smoothing her hair back from her face. The little girl''s eyes were wide, taking in the sea of unfamiliar faces

    "You''re going to be fine, sweetheart," Evelyn said softly, her voice steady despite her own nerves. "You''re going to make lots of friends today, and you''ll have so much fun I promise." Samantha nodded, though her small hand squeezed Evelyn''s a little tighter.

    "Do you r

    really think so. Mommy?" she asked in a tiny voice, her eyes flicking nervously to the school building.

    "I know so," Evelyn said, smiling warmly. "And Maya will be here when school is over, okay! Maya will pick you up, and I''ll see youter after I get back from work."

    Just as Evelyn was about to usher Samantha forward, a sleek ck car pulled up behind them, and a tall heavily pr hand gently guiding a young girl who looked about Samantha''s age. The little girl, with bright eyes and a shy smile, was clearly just as nervous as Samantha.

    pregnant woman stepped out, her

    Both children B?ckel eyes immediately as though sensing the other''s nervousness, and in that magical way only children could, they gravitated Toward one another as they made their way inside, Evelyn fra lighter as she waved goodbye to Samantha, who was now happily walking into the school with E. The pang of separation still tigges at her, but knowing Samantha wasn''t alone made it easier. Evelyn watched her heart swelling with relief. Samantha had already found a friend.

    Seems like they''ve hit it off, the pregnant woman said,ing to stand beside Evelyn. She had a kind smile, her eyes twinkling with warmth. "It''s always a relief when that happens, isn''t it?" Sarah said, watching the two girls with a fond smile.

    Evelyn nodded,ughing softly as she turned to face her. "Definitely. I was worried for a second, but it looks like they''ll be just fine."

    "By the way, I''m Sarah the woman introduced herself, extending a hand.

    "Evelyn," she replied, shaking Sarah''s hand. "It''s my daughter''s first day here. I think I''m more nervous than she is."

    "Oh trust me, I know the feeling. My little girl, E, was so scared this morning, but I think having a friend here already is going to help.

    "I''m sure it will," Evelyn agreed. feeling the tension ease from her shoulders, "Maybe we could arrange a ydate sometime. You know, something

    to help them get along well. We moved here recently, and Sam doesn''t really have friends her age."N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Sarah''s face lit up. "That sounds great! I think E could use a new friend, especially with the baby on the way."

    They exchanged numbers, promising to stay in touch before they parted.

    With onest nce at the school, Evelyn slid back into the cab. She smiled, feeling as though a small weight had been lifted.

    She had made a new friend, and Samantha had too. The day was off to a good start. Turning to Maya, she gave her a soft reminder.

    "Don''t forget to pick Samantha up after school, okay?"

    Maya nodded "Of course, ma''am. I''ll be there"

    Satisfied. Evelyn leaned back in her seat, her mind already drifting to her next destination- Derek''s office. She hadn''t told him yet, but she was looking forward to surprising him.

    She felt a sense of peace wash over her. Everything was going to be alright. All she had to do was follow her heart and trust her gut.

 Chapter 87

    As Evelyn sat in the backseat of the cab, Rayna''s words echoed in her mind, pushing her toward the decision she knew she had to make.

    Rayna''s advise had helped her put things in perspective. The past few years of carefully guarding the truth had yielded nothing but sleepless nights and a gnawing fear of Sandra''s next move.

    What had hiding the affair between Sandra and Michael ever brought her Protecting the secret had only hurt her, stramed her rtionship with parents, and left her trapped in a web of lies, and prevented her from moving forward. Ennuigh was enough.

    It was pointless for her to be keeping everything to herself. And she was done hiding behind Samantha

    clean with

    She wasn''t just going to surprise Derek anymore as she had nned. Today she was going to tell Derek everything. She woulde el and let him know she was going to use him to fight back.

    After she was done talking to Derek, she will tell her parents everything ton Whether her parents believed her or chose to stand by Sandra, that wouldn''t be her problem anymore. She was just going to put the truth out there, and let them decide what to do with it.

    Evelyn was done ying the quiet victim. She had Samantha to protect, and to do that, she had to take control of the situation and be more proactive instead of cowardly avoiding confrontations

    If her parents sided with Sandra, so be it. She would walk away

    away with

    her dignity and, more importantly, with the truth on her s

    side.

    If her parents, especially her father took her word for it, then after the interview with Derek, she would resign from Empowered and gol family magazine to take back ler rightful ce. She would be Sandra''s greatest nightmare.

    go back to the

    Taking out her phone, she dialed Rayna''s line, wanting Rayna to give her the moral support she needed to do what she had in mind. "Good morning, Evie! What''s up!" Rayna asked excitedly the moment she received Evelyn''s call.

    "I''m going to Derek''s office. I want to tell him everything." Evelyn said, and smiled when she heard Rayna''s happy shriek.

    "Yas, girl! That''s my girl! You better don''t change your mind else I''m going to drag you to him myself and make you spill it, okay! I really hate to see movies or read books where stuff is unnecessarily drawn out this way. You''ve been quiet for long enough. If you don''t tell Derek yourself, you might never get the chance to again, and Sandra might just bear you to it like it happens in movies and novels. I don''t know about you, but I''m not cut out for such drama," Rayna said, and Evelynughed.

    "I''m nervous," she confessed,

    "It''s okay to feel nervous. I believe it''s normal. But you should do this, not just because you want to fight Sandra back, but also because Derek has been good to you and he deserves to know the truth," Kayna said, and Evelyn drew a deep breath

    "Okay. I will. I''m going to tell him everything. I''m going to tell him about Sam. Or do you think maybe I should just wait until weekend." "NO! Do so now! Don''t chicken out," Rayna said, and Evelyn sighed again.

    "Alright. I''m at thepany now. I will let you know how it goes. Thanks, Ray. I''m d I confided in you." Evel

    Evelyn said before hanging up.

    As the cab pulled up in front of Stone Corp, her stomach tightened. Evelyn took a deep breath as she stepped out of the cab, straightening her shoulders as she walked inside.

    The moment Derek''s secretary saw her, she rose to embrace her, "Good morning. Evelyn. I''ve missed you"

    "I''ve missed you too." Evelyn said with a grin as she pulled back. " Mr

    Ir Stone busy?"

    "Not yet. He juu got in a while ago and I was just about to go get his coffee. "Why de

    don''t

    you let me do that." Evelyn suggested, and the secretary mockled since she knew very well that Derek was interested Evelyn. After making Derek''s coffee as she knew he loved it. Evelyn knocked on the door before walking in.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Derek barely nced up from his phone as she approached, assuming she was his secretary, and Evelyn smiled as she got close enough and ced the cuter in front of him.

    "Good morning. Mr Stone. Here''s your coffee, she greeted pleasantly

    Exclyn watched with a grin as his brad sapped up from his phone and she grinned as his face lit up when he saw her

    "Is this a dream?" He asked as he rose, ut dir giggled.

    "Maybe

    12.17 PM (

    Derek watched her, wondering if he was seeing things or if Evelyn was truly standing in his office and giggling

    Seeing how surprised he looked, she grinned, "Wow! I didn''t think you''d be so shocked."

    "You''re really here? I''m not seeing things?" he asked, sounding genuinely pleased, his eyes warm with affection "You''re not seeing things," she assured him.

    "To what do I owe the pleasure?" He asked as he stepped out of his seat.

    "Do you have a minute?" she asked hopefully.

    "For you, I have the whole day if you want it," Derek replied with a teasing grin, his posture rxed as he leaned back against his desk.

    Evelynughed, shaking her head. "I don''t need the whole day, just some time to talk"

    Derek''s expression shifted slightly, a shadow of concern flickering across his face. His eyes darted around the room, and Evelyn could sense the sudden tension in his body.

    The bug. She saw it in his eyes- the uncertainty of whether his office was stillpromised. Without a word, he pushed himself away from the table and walked over to her, taking her arm gently.

    "Can we go somewhere else?" he asked quietly, his voice low. "I''m not sure we should talk here."

    Evelyn nodded. "Sure."

    Derek dipped his phone into his pocket before picking up the coffee she had brought him and his car key.

    "Let''s go," he said, leading her out of the office.

    Derek''s hand stayed on the small of her back as he guided her out of the office, seeing tingles down her spine.

    He paused only to speak to his secretary. "Cancel my appointments for the rest of the day, please," he instructed her before turning back to Evelyn. "Where do you think we should go?" He asked as they got into the elevator.

    "Anywhere else is fine," Evelyn assured him

    A small smile crept onto Derek''s lips, a look of nostalgia crossing his features. "You said something simr when we first met, he murmured, almost to himself

    Evelyn smiled, feeling a bit of the tension case from her shoulders. "Hm"

    They descended to the underground parking, where Derek''s car was waiting. As they settled inside, Derek turned to her with a yful smile. "So. anywhere, huh? How about we go to my hotel like we did then?"

    Evelynughed softly, "Your hotel? Alright, that works," she said, thinking that it was probably a good ce to tell him everything since their rtionship and started there.

 Chapter 88

    During the drive, Evelyn stared out of the window, her mind racing. How do I tell him about Samantha?

    She knew she had to tell Derek the truth, but the words seemed too big, too overwhelming. Perhaps she could invite him over to her ce and reveal everything there.

    That way, Samantha wouldn''t just be a story-she would be real, standing in front of him. But was she ready for that? Ready to open the door to the pust she had kept hidden?

    UR

    I must say, Fen really happy to see you." Derek said, turning to nce at her

    Evelyn smiled, "You looked really surprised earlier.

    "You''d be surprised if you were in my shoes, considering how you''ve kept trying to push me away up until yesterday," he said, and she nodded. "So, you missed me?" He asked with a grin and she smiled. "Yeah, she admitted, shocking him.

    "I''m struggling not to ask you what brought about this change, Derek said, and Evelynughed sofily

    k could respond, they were interrupted by the sound of Derek''s phone

    "You''d find out soon enough when we talk," she said, and before Derek a ringing

    Evelyn nced at him as he picked it up from the console, ncing at the caller ID. "It''s Sandra, Derek told her. Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat, her pulse quickening Without thinking she reached out, "Can I take that?"

    what that meant.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Derek hesitated, his brow furrowing. "You want to take it?" He asked, wondering if she knew

    "Yes," Evelyn said with a nod, and he seemed to consider it for a moment beforending her the phone

    "Go ahead"

    Although he wanted to keep up with their n so he would find out what Sandra was up to, but Evelyn knew about the n, and if she wanted to take the call then he was going to let her

    Evelyn smirked as she swiped the screen and received the call, bringing the phone to her ear. "Hello, Sandra," she greeted pleasantly.

    There was a stunned silence on the other end before Sandra''s voice came through, sharp and demanding. "Who is this" She asked despite recognizing Evelyn''s voice.

    "I''m sure you haven''t forgotten m

    my voice already. Derek is busy," Evelyn said in a soft, suggestive tone that made her stomach twist with satisfaction. "Evelyn what ar

    are you.."

    Evelyn didn''t give her the chance to continue. With a deliberate, almostzy drawl, she said, "He will call you back," before ending the call and tossing the phone back to Derek, a wicked smile tugging at her lips,

    Derek stared at her for a moment, his eyes wide in disbelief, before he burst outughing. "What was that?"

    Evelyn shrugged, her heart pounding but her smile unwavering. "Just giving her a taste of her own medicine."

    Derek shook his head, still chuckling as he ced the phone back in its holder. "You really have changed, haven''t you?"

    Evelyn looked out of the window, her expression softening as

    as the

    city blurred past them. "I guess I have. She nced at him then, feeling a surge of

    determination. "And I''m not done yer

    For the first time in years, she felt like she was finally in control of her life again. And it felt good.

    Derek''s gare flickered with curiosity, but he didn''t press ber further since she had said he would find out about it when they talked.

    Instead of asking any questions, be changed the subject, asking about the interview

    Once they armed at the hotel, they both rode the elevator up to the penthouse, and Evelyn smiled as she remembered that day six years ago,

    At the time she had thought she was going to die. Her perfect worldview had been shattered and she had thought she was never going to recover fren it then, but here she was now. Time, as they said, truly did heal woundh

    "You''re wee to my abode," Derek said with a wide smile as they walked into his suite,

    "Thank you" she said, looking around the ce. "I didn''t really take note of how beautiful this ce was," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "You were 100

    were too busy crying to do that. Make yourselffortable. Do you want something to drink?" He asked, and she looked at him for a

    "You might want to drink something strong when I''m done," she suggested as she sat down

    Derek raised a brow, wondering just what she wanted to say to him that would make him need a drink.

    "You keep arousing my interest," Derek said as he walked over to the bar in his room and poured wine into two sses.

    He returned to join her in the living room, and after setting the ss in front of her, he took the seat opposite her.

    "I''m ready to hear what you

    you have to say," Derek said, and Evelyn took a deep breath.

    Unable to stay still because she was feeling very nervous, she rose, "I don''t know how to begin."

    "Maybe you should start by telling me what you want to talk about. Like an intro or maybe the heading." Derek suggested.

    "I want to talk aboun

    about everything. I want to tell you everything. What happened six years ago. Why I called off the wedding. Why I''ve been trying to keep you away even though I really like you too. Everything," she said, and Derek grinned.

    "I like thest part you mentioned. Did you just admit that you really like me?" He asked, and despite her anxiety, Evelyn smiled.

    "I don''t think that''s the most

    important thing you should be curious about," Evelyn said with a sigh, and then returned to sit down again.

    That day. The day we met...

    Evelyn went on to tell Derek what truly happened and how she ran off after seeing Michael and Sandra in bed and hearing their conversation about

    her

    As Evelyn spoke, the tension in the air thickened. She recounted every painful detail-walking into the room that day and seeing Michael with Sandra. Her voice wavered as she described the shock, the betrayal that had hit her like a tidal wave, the way her world had crumbled right before her eyes

    Derek sat across from her, silent but attentive, his hands gripping his ss. His expression was calm, though his jaw tensed ever so slightly, a clear sign of the anger simmering beneath hasposed exterior. Derek didn''t interrupt. He waited for her to pour out all that was in her heart.

    The room fell into silence after her revtion and her words hung thick in the air between them

    Derek set his ss down, leaning forward slightly. "Why didn''t you expose them? Why did you keep quiet this whole time and let them make you out to be the viin when you were the victim? Why did you run off that way?"

    Evelyn shook her head as tears gathered in her eyes. "I didn''t know what to do," she confessed, her voice raw. "I was hurt, Derek. And I hate to admit it, but I was scared. The two people I trusted most apart from my parents turned out to be strangers. I left because I couldn''t face them and I was so angry at my father. I couldn''t stand any of it."

    "You could''ve taken them down, Evelyn. They wouldn''t have had the power to hurt you if you had just fought back. You should have confronted them right there and let them know you saw them. You should have told your parents the truth. You should have told me, damn it Derek said, raising his voice in frustration.

    "How could you have kept this to yourself for so long? You are always so stubborn and sharp-tongued when ites to me, yet you''ve been hiding away so cowardly from the people you truly need to confront, Derek said, unable to hide his displeasure.

    "I didn''t have any proof. And I wasn''t emotionally strong enough to stand up to them. I just wanted to disappear. To leave it all behind for sometime. I wanted to go lick my wound quietly

    did you wait for six years to return?" He asked, and her heart skipped a beat.

    This was the moment of truth. She was going to have toe clear with him. It was now or never.

 Chapter 89

    Evelyn''s heart began to beat very fast as she tried to work up the courage to tell him about Samantha, but he asked another question before she could do so

    want to

    "Are you ready to fight them now? Are you ready to expose them? Is that why you took Sandra''s call earlier?" he asked softly. "Because you want face her?" He asked as he studied her, his gaze piercing as though he was searching for something in her eyes.

    Evelyn drew a deep breath, her resolve hardening as she gave him a mod. "Yes, Derek. I''m done running. I''m done avoiding them. They''ve messed with me for long enough. I''m not going to let them win anymore I want to take back what they''ve taken from me."

    "How do Ie in?" He asked, knowing she was there to see him because somehow she needed him in whatever she was nning.Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

    Evelyn hesitated, her pulse quickening. "Sandra wants you, Derek. She thinks you''re hers. But I''ve decided I''m not going to let her have you. I want you for myself"

    Her words hang in the air like a challenge, and Derek''s eyes darkened. He leaned back in his chair, his posture still rxed, but there was something dangerous in the way he regarded her

    "You want me for yourself?" he repeated, his voice low. "Is that what this is about! Taking me from Sandra to get back at her?"

    Evelyn''s breath caught in her throat at the intensity of his gaze. Her heart pounded in her chest as she searched for the right words "-" she faltered, unsare how to answer. Her hands twisted nervously in herp before she met his eyes, her voice harely above a whisper. I''m not sure yet what I feel for you. I don''t know if it''s love or desire. But I do know. I want you. I want to be with you And yes, taking you from her would be satisfying.

    Derek''s expression didn''t change, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes- something raw, something possessive. He leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees as he stared her down. "You''re mistaken about something, Evelyn. You''re not taking me from Sandra. I have never belonged to herTM

    The certainty in his voice made her stomach twist. He reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, his fingers lingering at the base of her neck. "My heart has always belonged to you, he said quietly. Even when you ran and kept pushing me away, I never stopped wanting or loving you Sandra has never and could never be a threat to you because, to me, she doesn''t mean anything"

    Evelyn''s heart raced, her breath catching at the intensity of his words. She hadn''t expected this, hadn''t expected him to be so sure, so unwavering in his feelings for her.

    Derek''s hand slid down her chin, tilting her face toward his. "I want you to know something, Evelyn. Whatever you decide whether you''re doing this because you want to get back at them or because you feel something real between us- I''m with you. But don''t think for a second that you''re haking me from anyone. You''ve had my heart all along"

    Evelyn swallowed hard, her eyes filling with emotion as she held his gaze. She could feel the tension building between them, the years of pain anger, and longing all crashing together in this moment. Slowly, she reached up, covering his hand with hers.

    "I don''t want to run anymore," she whispered, "I want to fight. But I''m scared."

    Derek''s expression softened, his thumb brushing against her skin gently. "You don''t have to be scared. Not when you''re with me. We''ll face them together. You''re not alone in this anymore, Eve? Her chest tightened at his words, "Thank you" she whispered.

    Derek leaned in pressing his forehead against hers. "We will take them down and make them pay for all the pain they caused you." he promised, his voice a quiet vow.

    As their breaths mingled, Evelyn closed her eyes, letting the warmth of his words and thefort of his touch envelop her.

    "There is something else I need to tell you, she whispered.

    "What?" Derek asked as he pulled back

    1

    They were both startled and looked up when the door to the suite suddenly opened, and Derek''s mother walked in

    "What is going on here. Derek! What is she doing here?" Derek''s mother asked harshly as her disapproving gaze settled on Evelyn-

    She had received a distress call from Sandra earlier, letting her know that she had gone to Derek''s office to see him, but he wasn''t in his seat. And that Evelyn had received her call, iming Derek was busy and she was worried about Derck

    Derek''s mother had contacted the secretary before calling the hotel manager to find out if there was in his suite, and then she was informed i

    he was in

    Evelyn rose quickly, putting some distance between her and Derek, while Derek rose slowly to face his mother.

    "We were talking," he said calmly.

    "Talking? Not in your office? Not in a restaurant or public ce, but in your suite?" Derek''s mother asked harshly.

    "I will be on my wa.."

    "Don''t you dare take a step!" Derek''s mother snapped at her, and Evelyn nced at Derek.

    "Derek, didn''t we have an agreement? Didn''t you promise to stay away from this good-for-nothing slut?" She asked, and Evelyn flinched.

    "Don''t call her that, Mom! Do not call her that," Derek said, annoyed at his mother.

    He turned to Evelyn, "You can leave. Let''s continueter," Derek said, and Evelyn gave him a nod and headed for the door again, but Derek''s mother blocked her path.

    "Do you really think I''m going to let someone like you be involved with my son! It is never going to happen..." before his mother could finish, Derek walked over to where Evelyn stood and took her hand, he pulled her along with him and walked past his mother.

    "I''m sorry for this. I will call youter," he promised after leading her to the door, and she gave him a nod before walking away.

    The moment the door closed behind her, Derek turned to face his mother, and she pped him hard across the cheeks. "How dare you d

    disrespect me that way in front of that slut?" She asked angrily.

    "She is not a slut. Do not call her such names, Mom," Derek said, and she looked at him with disbelief

    "What hase over you, Derek? Didn''t we have an agreement? Didn''t you agree to stay away from her and be with Sandra? Why did her to your suite? Why did you let her take Sandra''s call?" Why did you bring

    Derek took a deep breath to calm himself. He was still so mad after all that he had heard from Evelyn about Sandra and Michael.

    "How well do you know Sandra, Mom? What exactly makes you think she is a suitable wife for me? Why do I have to marry her simply because Michael rmended her to you? How much do you trust Michael?" Derek asked, the questions pouring out.

 Chapter 90

    Derek''s mother blinked, clearly taken aback by the sudden barrage of questions. Her face tightened with disbelief, and she shook her head slowly as if trying toprehend what her son was implying. "Where are all these questionsing from?" Although her voice was steady, it held an undercurrent of confusion.

    "From my heart. Mom. I really want to know if having lunch with Sandra one time is enough for you to im you know her or her stability for me, Derek said, his voice quiet but firm.

    "What are you trying to suggest That I don''t know what''s best for you? That Sandra isn''t good enough? She told me well during your date. What changed? Did that witche here to hypnotier you and change your mind?" She asked, her confusion apparent

    e that you both got along really

    by you''re pushing n

    "Leave Evelyn out of this, Mom. I''m asking you why you really think Sandra is good enough for me. I want to know why! marry her so strongly when you''ve only met her in person once.

    "I''ve met her once, but Michael has known her for years.."

    "Exactly my point! Have you asked yourself the reason Michael, of all people, is rmending that I marry her? He''s single, too, Mom. Why doesn''t he marry her himself if he thinks she''s such a good catch? Doesn''t he need a good wife?"

    "Michael is only looking out for you.."

    "How do you know that? How can you be so sure that he doesn''t have another motive?" Derek

    "Because Michael is my nephew, she uid, her voice clipped, as if that exined everything

    "And I''m your son Derek countered, his voice barely above a whisper, the hurt in his eyes in to see. "Or does that not count for anything anymore? He tells you a woman is good enough for me, and you want me to marry her, but you won''t let me be with the woman I know is good for me?" Derek asked angrily.

    The sharp lines in his mother''s face softened into something more guarded, her eyes narrowing as she regarded him carefully. "What hase over you, Derek! You never used to talk back to me like this. You never used to question me. Now, suddenly, you''re defying me. And it''s all because of that girl," she said with displeasure.

    Derek''s frustration simmered to the surface, "No. It is not because of Evelyn. It is because I do not understand you anymore. This has nothing to do with Evelyn. It is about you forcing me into something I don''t want and you not trusting me to make my own decisions. Up until now. I''ve obeyed you and let you dictate my life, but this time is different! This is about my future! It is about deciding the woman I''m going to spend the rest of my life with, and I can''t let you make that decision for me. You''re not the one who is going to be living with Sandra if I should marry her. I love you. Mom. I really du. But right now, you''re frustrating me." Derek said as he sighed deeply

    His mother''s eyes shed with indignation, her voice rising "What do you mean I am frustrating you! I am only doing what any mother who loves her son would do. You think I don''t know what''s good for you? Do o you think Evelyn is better for you than Sandra! She''s already caused enough trouble. I''m trying to protect you. Derek."

    "Protect me." Derek''s voice sharpened. "You''re not protecting me, you''re suffocating ine! You''re forcing me into a marriage with someone I don''t love, all because Michael says it''s a good idea. You want to protect me? Then trust me to make my own choices! Why do you trust him so much? Why do you trust him more than your own son?"

    He wished he could tell his mother everything and shows her the video of Michael entering his office to take out the bug, but he knew that if he did, she would most likely dismiss it and say Michael had done what he did because Evelyn hurt him.

    And he wouldn''t be able to trust her to keep it to herself. He couldn''t have that. He needed a more solid proot. Something that would be ring and undeniable. He hoped the person he had put on Michael''s tail would get him the needed evidence

    His mother was visibly caught off guard by the usation and a stunned silence fell between them. She straightened her posture, her lips thinning. an she carefullyprised herself.

    "I want you to stay away from Evelyn," The name shipped from her tongue like a biner poison. That''s the end of it. You have a future to think abour, Derek, and she is not a part of that future," she said, her tone hard and ful, like a judge delivering a sentence

    Derek''s jaw clenched, his muscles tensing as his frustration reached a boiling point. "I won''t stay away from her. I don''t want to stay away from her"

    His mother''s eyes shed with fury. What did you just say

    "You heard me." Derek said, his voice unwavering. Tm not staying away from Evelyn. Do you remember what I told you when you asked me it lud a girlfriend or someone I liked shortly after I returned to the country six years ago Derek asked, and his mother nobled

    "Of course Llo, What does that have to do with anything?" She asked in confusion.

    "What do I tell you?" Dick asked, ignoring her question

    "You asked if I believed in love at first sight, and you said you were searching for the girl who hit your car," she said, and Derek nodded.

    When he told his mother about Evelyn the first time, he had left out the part about them having sex together, but he had told her everything else.

    "I found her. And guess what? That girl is Evelyn," Derek said, and his mother''s eyes widened slightly with disbelief.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    "What are you trying to say?" She asked, and Derek nodded.

    "Evelyn is the girl I told you about years ago. She''s not the bad person you think she is. You know how hard I tried to find her until I gave up and decided to leave it to fate. And then, out of nowhere, she showed up in my office. What do you call that? How can you ask me to give that up?" Derek asked, his heart burning.

    She shook her head. "I will pretend I didn''t hear this. Don''t say this nonsense to anyone else. I forbid you from being with her, Derek. Do you have any idea how much pain and humiliation that girl caused your cousin? Do you know how much shame and embarrassment her actions brought us?" She asked, wanting to talk some sense into her son,

    of our family.

    you to stay away from her. I don''t care if it was love at first sight or whatever. That girl is never going to be a part o

    "I want you

    "You still don''t get it, Mom. The ident happened on the day before their wedding. She wasn''t with any lover. She was with me." Derek said, and his mother shook her head vehemently, her eyes narrowing as she took a step closer to him.

    "Do you expect me to believe that? Is that what she asked you to say! Did she really ask you toe up with this nonsense? I don''t believe you, Derek. I don''t care about the past, whether she was with you or someone else. And I don''t care about your childish infatuation with that girl I want her gone from your life, and that is final."

    Derek inhaled deeply, staring at her with a grim determination in his eyes. "You can say whatever you want, but I''m not going to stop. I''m going to show you that Evelyn is not the person you think she is. And I''m not going to let you or anyone else stand in our way."

    His mother''s face twisted in anger, her chest rising and falling rapidly. She stepped back, her eyes zing with disbelief. "How dare you defy me. like this! How dare you speak to me like this because of her?" "Because I''m tired of you trying to control my life!" Derek shot back, his voice trembling with emotion. "I''m tired of you not listening to me! Do you really consider me your son? Do you care about Michael''s opinion more because he is blood-rted to you, and I''m adopted''

    His mother''s lips parted, but no words came out. For a brief moment, she stood there, frozen in shock. Then, with a sudden surge of rage, she spun on her heel and stormed toward the door.

    As she reached for the handle, she paused, her back rigid, her voice shaking with barely contained fury. "I will never ept that girl. Not now, Not ever. And whatever I do to her, will be your fault.¡°¡± Without waiting for a response, she yanked the door open and stormed out, the sound of the door mming shut, echoing in the silence that followed.

    Derek stood there, his chest heaving, his mind racing. He stared at the closed door, the weight of his words and the confrontation weighing him down. His hands trembled slightly, the adrenaline still coursing through his veins.

    Letting out a slow breath, Derek sank into the nearest chair, his head dropping into his hands. His mother''s words still echoed in his mind, but so did his own

    For the first time in his life, he had truly stood up to her. He had stood his ground against her for the first time and chosen his own path.

    Although he didn''t feel too good about it, he knew he wasn''t wrong. And he wasn''t turning back now not for anyone.

    All he had to do now, was find a way to protect Evelyn from the wrath that was to co

    Coinc.

 Chapter 91

    H

    Evelyn''s heart pounded in her chest as the cab sped toward the office. She sped her trembling hands together as if it would help her hold herself together.

    The confrontation with Derek''s mother reyed in her mind, each scornful word ringing in her ears like a bell she couldn''t silence.

    Her stomach knotted as she remembered the fury in his mother''s e

    eyes, the venom in her words.

    Why had she thought this was a good idea? The chill of doubt settled deep within her, mingling with the heat of regret.

    Had she just made things worse! The question gnawed at her. Did she justplicate things further by throwing caution to the wind and acting so recklessly?

    Thest thing Evelyn wanted was to drive a wedge between Derek and his parents, and it seemed like she had done just that. She sighed deeply, trying to still the storm of emotions inside her Maybe she shouldn''t have listened to Rayna Opening up like that was a terrible idea. But it was toote to undo it now.

    She was started out of her thoughts when her phone buzzed from inside her bag. Quickly, she fished it out, her heart fluttering with a fleeting hope that maybe it was Derek calling to say that everything was fine and that he had resolved things with his mother. But her face fell when she saw Rayna''s name shing on the screen.

    Evelyn answered with a soft sigh, trying to keep her voice steady

    "Hey! Are you there yet? I hope you haven''t chickened our Rayna''s voice, always so full of energy, crackled through the line.

    Evelyn bit her lip. "I don''t know why I let you talk me into this, I shouldn''t have."

    Rayna cut her off concerncing her tone. "Did something happen? What happened? Is he mad at you for keeping Samantha from him?"

    Evelyn could picture Rayna on the other end of the line, probably pacing in that no-nonsense way she did when she was worried. Evelyn swallowed, closing her eyes as she relived the scene. "I didn''t get to that part before his mother showed up. She was furious. She called me a a good-for-nothing slut. She said she would never let someone like me be involved with her son. Rayna, I was scared I don''t think I''m ready for all of thi Evelyn''s voice faltered.

    There was a long pause on the other end of the line, then Rayna''s voice hardened. "What did Derek do? Did he take your side, or did he just stand there and let his mom talk to you like that?" Rayna asked since Derek''s reaction was more important to her.

    If Derek had stood there and watched his Mom say all of that without defending Evelyn, then as far as she was concerned. Evelyn would have no more business with him.

    "He tried to defend me. He

    "Good" Rayna said, the relief in her voice unmistakeable. "That''s all that matters, Evie. Forget whatever his mother said and focus on what he said." Evelyn leaned back in the cab seat, staring nkly out the window, "I wish I could, but I can''t. His Mom seems like she''s going to be trouble. You know me. Ray. I can''t stand confrontations..."

    "Well, you have to learn to, Evelyn, Rayna''s voice softened but remained firm. "You can''t run from confrontations all your life. You have a daughter to look out for. You ran away six years ago, but I''m not going to let you run away again, do you hear me?"

    Tears welled up in Evelyn''s eyes, her chest tightening with the pressure of Rayna''s words. She brushed them away quickly, trying to stayposed "What am I supposed to do now?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Rayns was quiet for a moment, then asked, "How did Derek''s mom know you were with him? Did she just randomly show up, or do you think someone tipped her off? Rayna asked thoughtfully.

    Evelyn bit her lip. "It''s my fault. Sandra called Derek while I was with him, and I. I picked up the phone. I think she told Derek''s mom." Rayna burst intoughter, catching Evelyn off guard. "What''s Guy" Evelyn asked, still feeling the weight of her mistake.

    "You.. you answered Sandra''s call" Rayna managed through herughter. "That''s brilliant!"

    A small smile inged at the corner of Evelyn''s lips despite herself. "Tin not sure it was

    such a

    La good idea."

    "Oh, on the contrary. I think it was perfect What did you say to the snake?" Rayna''s one lightened considerably, the earlier tension between them cvaporating in her amaisement,

    Evelyn recounted the conversation, feeling a little lighter as she heard Bayna''s delighted giggles on the other end.

    "You''ve drown the battle be. Evie You''ve already lered war on the snake, and I love at There''s no backing out now."

    A knor of anxiety twisted in Evelyn''s stomach at Kayna''s words. "Do you really think I should tell Derek about Samantha now? I don''t want to cause trouble

    Kami''s tone tumed serious agam. "It Sandra and Michael can cause trouble, why shouldn''t you Especially seeing as everyone already thinks the worst about you! Bring back that bitch in you that poured wine on Sandra at the anniversary party to live up to the image she was creating of you. Stop trying to be the peacekeeper. Derek won''t thank you for it when he finds out you kept his daughter from him just to keep peace with his parcurs. And while we''re at it, I think it''s time you talk to your parents 100."

    Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat at the mention of her parents. "I was thinking about that earlier, but now I''m not so sure."

    "You don''t have to be sure," Rayna replied softly, "I''m sure enough for both of us. Do not let Sandra keep you apart from your father. I get that he hart your feelings, and you''re mad at him for not handling things as you would have preferred, but it''s time you extended a line grace. If you don''t tell him what happened, he will never know the truth, and the misunderstanding will dragon endlessly. Think about it: if your father had died while you were gone, wouldn''t you have been heartbroken at the state you left things!

    Evelyn''s throat tightened her eyes stinging with unshed tears "What if he doesn''t believe me?"

    "You will never know if you don''t tell him," Rayna said gently. "He deserves to know why you ended things like you did. And after your exin, then you can tell him how hurt you were by the way he acted Evelyn let out a long, deep sigh. "When did you be so wise?"

    Rayna giggled. I was just wondering the same thing."

    Evelyn couldn''t help butugh, the tension in her shoulders easing just a bit. "Alright, I tell him. Maybe I''ll invite my parents over this weekend and exin everything"

    "That''s my girl." Rayna said, pride in her voice. "And don''t forget to tell Derek about Sammy the next time you see him. The longer you wait, the more upset he''ll be. A man who defends you against his mother is worth holding on to."

    Evelyn smiled, the warmth of Rayna''s words wrapping around her like a hug. "Thanks, Ray, I feel better now. And to make sure I don''t back out. I''m sending my mom a text as soon as we hang up, inviting her and Dad over for dinner this weekend, Evelyn said as the cab driver pulled up in front of her office.

    "Good. By the way. I called to ask if you knew anything about the anonymous rtionship ad that was put up on the Empowered Instagram Page this morning" Bayu asked

    "An anonymous rtionship ad! I haven''t seen it yet, but if it''s in the rtionship column, then it''s legit. Empowered always runs the background check on people before putting out such ads, Evelyn said as she dug into her wallet for money and paid the cab driver before getting out.

    "Great then, ''cause I

    I''m signing up for it," Rayn said, and Evelyn raised a brow

    "Weren''t you singing about how Ethan is your destiny yesterday? You''re already moving on from your soul mate?" Evelyn asked dryly

    Raynaughed, "Well, I''m not putting all my eggs in one basket. I just want to see how this goes. Besides, I''m sure so manydies would reach out to him, too.

    "Well I wish you good luck with that. I got to go now. And thank you, Ray. I do not deserve you or our friendship, but"

    "Bitch Bye!" Rayna said and hung up, making Evelynugh softly as she continued inside

    The moment she

    got into her office and sat down, she dialed her stepmom''s number. It connected almost immediately it connected. "Hello, Evie. I was just thinking about Sammy. How is she doing? Did she resume at the school today!" ire asked, and Evelyn smiled.

    "She has, Mo. How are you doing? And how is Dad?"

    "We are both alright, but it would be better if you resolved things with your Dad and called him directly instead of."

    That''s the reason I called. I want you both toe over for dinner," Evelyn eut in.

    "Your father and ire asked her voice rising with excitement, and Evelyn smiled.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "Yes, Men, I think it''s high time he meets his granddaughter. And I''m ready to tell you everything now. I''d rather talk to you both together." Evelyn said, and ire smiled happily.

    "Ols, my God! Youve no idea how happy I am

    to hear this When do you want us over! Tonight or tomorrow?" she asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    Although Evelyn had nned to invite them over during the Weekend, she decided to just push it forward so she would be done with it. "Let''s

    "You can''t change your mind, okay? Tomorrow, we will be there," ire said, and then Evelyn hesitated for a moment.

    "Mom, if you don''t mind, can you not let Sandra know about this?" She asked, and ire sighed.

    "Don''t worry. I''ll tell her we are going on a date if she asks. I hope you n to tell us what''s going on between you both as well." ire asked hopefully. "Sure. I''ll tell you everything tomorrow." Evelyn promised.

    "Alright then. See you tomorrow," ire said.

    Just as they hung up, the door to Evelyn''s office was pushed open, and Sandra walked in.

 Chapter 92

    Thinking East, Evelyn quickly activated the recording app on her phone with a swipe of her finger and ced it on her desk before looking at her Secretary, who hade in with Sandra.

    Evelyn''s secretary stepped forward, looking f flustered. "Ms. Evelyn, I''m so sorry. I tried to stop her, but she just barged in-

    Evelyn raised a hand to stop her. "It''s fine," she said calmly, her expressionposed. "You can go now

    The secretary hesitated. Although she was relieved that Evelyn said it was okay, she was still worried since she had only just begun working with her and didn''t want Evelyn to think she was ipetent. She nodded and hurried out of the office, closing the door softly behind her.

    Evelyn leaned back in her chair and turned her attention to Sandra, who stood before her with arms crossed tightly across her chest and eyes zing with fury.

    Evelyn could tell that Sandra hade to her office on impulse out of anger. This wasn''t a calcted visit. Sandra was clearly livid, but Evelyn remained seated, calm and collected.

    "Sandy. Evelyn greeted with an annoyingly pleasant smile, "what brings you to my office today!"

    Sandra''s nourils red, her fists clenched at her sides. "Cut the crap, Evelyn. What are you smiling about? You know exactly why I''m here." Sandra said, her voice was sharp,ced with bitterness,

    "Oh?" Evelyn raised a brow, frigning ignorance as she adjusted her posture, her smile never wavering. "Do enlighten me," she said, not wanting to believe that Sandra had the guts toe to confront her over taking Derek''s phone call when she was the same bitch, who had been shamelessly having an affair with her dance.

    Sandra cook a step closer, her eyes narrowing. "What the bell was that earlier? Don''t you have any shame!" Her voice was sharp, dripping with

    Evelyn arched a brow, then threw her head back andughed, a deep, genuine sound that filled the room, catching Sandra off guard. "Shame! Do you really think someone like you should be asking me such a question!"

    were you with

    Sandra shot Evelyn a disdainful look, clearly irritated by her calm demeanor. "What do you think you''re ying at, huh? Why wer Derek!"Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.

    "Did you barge into my office just to ask me that? Sandy, surely you have more important things to do than to waste your time on questions that really don''t concern you."

    Sandra''s face twisted with anger. "You think this is funny here to tell you to back off. Derek is my man. I don''t care what you think you''re doing, but you''d better stay the hell away from him! He is mine!" Evelyn''s lips curled into a smirk, her eyes gleaming with amusement as she leaned forward and locked eyes with Sandra. "Oh, Sandra, that''s a shame," she said, her voire dripping with mock sympathy. "Unfortunately for you, that won''t be happening because I''ve decided that I want Derck for myself. She spoke so casually as if the were talking about a TV show

    Sandra''s o

    eyes widened, her 1

    lips parting in shock. "What?" she spat, her voice shaking with disbelief. She had expected a denial from Evelyn, not this "You you can''t be serious," she said, unable to believe that Evelyn had just admined that she wanted Derek.

    Seeing how shocked she was, Evelyn smirked and leaned forward slightly, her tone light and almost yful "Oh, I''m very serious. You can have Michael I left him for you, after all. But Derck! He''s mine now." The shock on Sandra''s face morphed into pure rage. Her fists clenched at her sides, her nails digging into her palms. "You bitch! You have no i what you''re getting yourself into. You''re about to bite off more than you can chew!"

    no idea

    Evelyn''s smile widened, but her eyes hardened "Oh, sweetheart, you already bit of more than you could chew when you came after me first, Evelyn said, her voice low and sharp.

    Sandra''s jaw clenched, and she took a step forward, but Evelyn didn''t back down. If anything, she rose, her confidence radiating in the way she

    red her shoulders and Sandra''s gaze head-on

    "When I came back to the country, I nned to keep to myself and mind my business. All I wanted was to forget the past, do my job, and live a quiet life. But you and Michard You twa just couldn''t let me he, could you? You decided to provoke me, You pushed me, Sandra. And now, I won''t just sit back and watch anymore Evelyn continued her toneced with icy calmness.

    Evelyn''s eyes shed with a dangerous glint. "You see that stunt you pulled at the anniversary party! You brought out the bitch in me, and I''ve only just started. You wanted a fight, Sandrat Well, congrattions. You''ve got one. So sit back and enjoy the show because I''m about to be your work nightmare

    Sando''s face paled for a moment, but she His mother will never ept you. No matter what you do, you''ll never win. I will never let you have him!

    she quickly regained herposure. "Do you really think you can take Derek from met You''re delusionall

    12.18 PM dd.

    Evelyn felt a cold shiver crawl up her spine at the mention of Derek''s mother. Refusing to show any sign of weakness, she masked her fear behind a confident smirk. "Is that so?" She arched a brow, crossing her arms. "Want to bet on that?"

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed, and she took a deep breath, trying to control her temper. "You''re making a huge mistake, Evelyn. And you''ll regret it. Trust

    me

    Evelyn''s smirk widened. "Trust you? Why would I ever trust an evil bitch like you? Don''t you want Michael anymore? Or did you only want him because I had him? Does he even know you''re here, fighting over another man? Or wait. Your rtionship with him is an open one, isn''t it? Seeing as you were willing to share him with me, it must be. I guess it''s his turn to share you with Derek. What a dirty pair you are." Sandra''s face flushed with humiliation and anger, her fists clenching so tightly that her knuckles turned white. "You''ll pay for this, Evelyn," she hissed through gritted teeth. Evelyn didn''t flinch. "We''ll see."

    Without another word, Sandra spun on her heel and stormed out of the office, mming the door behind her.

    The moment the door closed, Evelyn let out a breath she hadn''t realized she was holding. She quickly turned off the recording on her phone, her hands shaking slightly.

    She sat back down in her chair, her heart racing as she stared at the door Sandra had just stormed through. The encounter had shaken her more than she cared to admit, but she wasn''t about to let Sandra know that.

    It didn''t matter that Sandra had not admitted to her rtionship with Michael. She had not bothered to deny it either, and that was good enough for Evelyn.

    It had started. The battle lines were drawn, and Evelyn knew there was no turning back now.

 Chapter 93

    Derek paced around his suite, his mind racing with thoughts of Evelyn, his mother''s stubbornness, and Michael''s underhanded tactics

    Remembering that he had yet to call Evelyn to find out where she was and apologize for what happened, Derek picked up his phone and dialed Evelyn''s number.

    The line rang twice before she picked up Derek, her voice came through, soft but tinged with concern.

    "Eve, Derek paused, running a hand through his hair. "Are you alright! Where are you now? I''m very sorry for what happened earlier."

    There was a brief silence on the other end, and then Evelyn let out a deep sigh. Tm fine. I don''t think you''re in a position to worry about me right now. Are you okay! I feel like all I''ve done is cause trouble between you and your Mom. I should never have-

    "Don''t apologize," Derek cut in his tone gentle but firm. "You didn''t do anything wrong. It was only a matter of time before I had that talk with her."

    wanted to

    "I don''t know maybe I acted rashly, Evelyn said, the guile evident in her voice. "Maybe I shouldn''t have taken Sandra''s call. I just stand up for myself, but now it''s going toplicate everything. How are you going to find out anything from her now?" She asked, her voice moreposed now.

    Derek smiled faintly, though it didn''t quite reach his eyes. I''m d you took the call. I loved hearing you talk to her that way. And if anything, we both know that Sandra will most likely be more interested in me now. She''ll want me even more, thinking there''spetition. Don''t worry about

    Evelyn sighed, and then Evelyn''s voice returned softer, more vulnerable. "I just didn''t want to make things harder for you"

    "Trust me when I say it''s alright, Eve, Derek said, his voice lowering as his thoughts shifted back to their earlier conversation. "I meant everything i uid earlier. I hope you won''t pull back again. I''ve got you" There was a pause, and then Evelyn spoke again with a hint of relief in her breath. "Sandra was in my office earlier.

    "What? She was where? What did she say? I ho

    I hope she didn''t cause any trouble for you!" He asked, totally surprised.

    "Don''t worry. I handled it Evelyn said quickly, sensing his concern. "She came to intimidate me. She wanted me to back off because you were hers. But I think I threw her off. She didn''t expect me to push back." Evelyn said with a small sotile.

    Derek exhaled slowly, letting the tension ease from his shoulders. "Well, I like that Keep pushing back. I hope you told her I''m not hers?" Derek asked, and Evelyn grinned.

    "I told her you were mine," she said, and Derek chuckled

    "I wish I were there to hear you say that he said, and Evelynughed softly.

    "I''ve decided I''m going to talk to my parents tomorrow and tell them everything she said, her tone bing serious again

    "That''s a good idea. It''s about time you told them. They need to know, I really don''t get why you kept it from them in the first ce, Derek said, and then Evelyn bit her lower lip.

    "There''s something else I need to tell you." Evelyn continued, her voice hesitant. "Can we meet? I don''t think it''s something I should say over the phone."

    Derek''s brows pulled together when he remembered that she had wanted to say something earlier before his mother interrupted them. "Let''s talk over dinner, then Will you have dinner with me

    Before she could respond, Derek''s phone beeped with an iing call. He nced at the screen and saw his father''s name sh across it. His stomach twisted. He knew why his father was calling. He could tell his mother had reported him

    "Evelyn, I have to go," he said, trying to keep the tension from his voice. "My father''s calling. I''ll call y

    I you back"

    "Okay Be careful," Evelyn replied, her voiceced with worry.

    Drick ended the call and immediately switched over to his father''s line. "Dad?

    "Derek," has father''s voice was calm, but there was a weight to it that Derek didn''t miss. "I need you toe home immediately

    "I''ll be there soon, Derek replied, already grabbing his keys and heading for the door. He knew his mother had told his Eather everything The drive to his parents'' house feh lon

    longer than usual, but he tried to stay calm and prepare himself for the impending conversation with his father, hoped he could make him see trasou

    By the time he pulled into the live way, his mind was racing again. His father wasn''t easily swayed, but Derek ht and understand the truth

    As soon as Derek walked into the house, he headed straight for the study, where he knew his father would be waiting. The door was slightly ajar, and he knockeit lightly before stepping inside.

    "Su down," his father said, gesturing to the chair in front of therge mahogany desk. The room, filled with the scent of old books and polished wood, felt like a courtroom awaiting a verdict. Derek sat, his eyes meeting his father''s with quiet determination.

    "I''m sure you know why 1 invited you over in the middle of a work day. What happened with your mother?" his father asked, his tone measured, though Derek could sense the curiosity and concern beneath it, Derek took a deep breath, deciding to go straight to the heart of the matter. "Dad, before I answer that, I need to ask you something. Who do you int more-ne or Michael?"All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    His father blinked, clearly taken aback "What kind of question is that? Of course, I trust you most. You''re my son," he said without hesitation.

    Derek nodded, pleased with the response. "In that case, you need to know something and I need you to keep it between us for now," Derek said, his voke steady.

    Ath

    His father raised a brow but said nothing as he watched Derek pull out his phone. Derek brought up the CCTV footage he had saved, and with a few taps.be handed the phone to his father. The screen disyed Michael sneaking into his office to remove the bug.

    His father''s face paled as he watched the video. Is this what I think it is?" He asked when he was done, and Derek nodded grimly.

    "Michael nned a listening device in my office and then tried to remove it when I wasn''t there. He''s been ying us all along, and he''s the one behind the scandal. He deliberately made it look like Evelyn was responsible for it"

    His father''s hand tightened around the phone. "Why would be do something like that? When did you find out?" His father asked, and Derek sighed.

    "I found out about itst week

    "Why didn''t you show this to us earlier Especially to your mother? Or have you shown her?" He asked, and Derek shook his head.

    "Not yet. I''m worried because she''d find a way to justify it. You know how she is about Michael. She''s too blind where Michael is concerned, Derek said, his voice tight with frustration.

    His father stared at the footage again, then looked up at Derek, his expression grave. "Still, this shows that Michael is guilty and used someone the falsely his father insisted

    "Yes, but I need to get more evidence to show her and make her understand that Michael isn''t the person she thinks he is. He''s manipting this whole situation, and Sandra is in on it "Sandra? The girl your mother wants you to marry?" His father asked, and Derek nodded.

    "Evelyn told me everything today. She told me what truly happened and why she called off the wedding. Derek said, and his father raised a brow. "You seem to trust this Evelyn girl a lot, his father observed. "Yes, I do. She''s not just some random girl I fell for Dad. I''ve been searching for her for the past six years. Although I didn''t know she was Michael''s fance then, I was the one with her on the night before their wedding" Derek revealed

    "Your How?" His father asked, taken aback by that piece of information.

    "Remember I got into an ident shortly after I arrived?" He asked, and his father nodded.

    "Yeah. You talked about somedy

    ly who was weeping" his father said, and Derek nodded.

    "Thatdy was Evelyn. And she was weeping because she saw Michael having sex with Sandra that day," Derek said, and his father looked at him in disbelief

    "Michael and Sandra! And yet he wants y

    you to marry her! What''s his endgame?" Hi! father asked, and Derek shook his head

    "I''m not sure, Bui judging by what Evelyn told me, Michael had been with her for her inheritance, and Sandra was on to it. So, it''s possible they are doing the same to me. I''m still trying to figure out what Michael and Sandra are really after. Something''s not right here." Derek admitted

    His father sighed deeply. "So, what now? What do you want me to do?

    "For the time being. I''m acting like I don''t know anything while gathering evidence. But I don''t intend to lose Evelyn in the process. Yst can''t let Mom push her out of my life."

    Ha father sat back, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Maybe you should pretend to stay away Sandra. You can also take a page from Michael''s book and bug their phones. That should expedite the process of exposing them"

    y from Evelyn for a while. Focus on exposing Mchand

    1216 PM ? ?.

    Derek''s eyes widened slightly at the suggestion. "Why didn''t I think of that?"

    His father gave a slight, approving nod. "Because you''re too worried about other things. Don''t worry, Derek. I''ll help however I can. Just be careful, Derek Michael''s ying a dangerous game, and we don''t know how far he''s willing to go. And don''t let your Mom know that I have your back in

    tha"

    Derek nodded, determination hardening in his chest. "I''ll get someone to hack their phones. We''ll get to the bottom of this."

    His father''s gaze softened slightly. "Whatever happens, son. I''m on your side.

 Chapter 94

    Seated in her car, Sandra''s heart pounded heavily, the adrenaline from the confrontation still coursing through her veint

    The fury and humiliation from Evelyn''s words seared her mind. Sandra''s thoughts were erratic, tangled beteren rage and disbelief

    Knowing that Michard was most likely going to hear what had happened from his aunt, Sandra contemted going to Michael''s offer. However, when she remembered that they had agreed in limit physical meetings to avoid raising suspicion, she decided to call him after she put back to her.

    That was safer. There, she could think clearly without the emotions of the moment clouding her judgment.

    Sandra gritted her teeth, forcing herself to calm down. She reminded herself that she needed to stick to the n. They couldn''t afford to be reckless now, not when things were at such a crucial point. Taking a deep breath, she started her car and returned to her office. The drive back was a blur of angry thoughts, and her mind was soumed by her encounter with Evelyn that she barely paid attention to what was going on around her.

    How could things spinal out of control so quickly? She had Derek right where she wanted him, or to she thought, and then Evelyn showed up. trying to throw a wrench in her n.

    ig wheel too figlely

    By the time Sandra reached thepany, her knackles were stiff from gripping the steering

    As she approached her office, she tried to think about how best to exin the situation to Michael, Even though she genuinely wanted Derek for henell now, she knew she still needed Michael to achieve that. Sandra froge when she pushed the door to her office open. And her heart skipped a heat when she saw that Michael was already there, seated in her chair, his eyes dark with barely restrained anger.

    He was taken aback when his aunt phoned him earlier and asked him to calm Sandra down so that she wouldn''t be too upset about what Evelyn had done. He was curious about the situation, and that''s when she informed him about receiving Sandra''s distress phone call and her subsequent visit to the hotel.

    He had wanted to call her, but had decided that he didn''t want a repeat of the nonchnce she had disyed over the phone during the weekend. hence he was in her office.

    Something about the way he was staring at her, scared her. The door clicked shut behind her, but neither of them spoke at first

    What the hell is going on, Sandra?" Michael''s voice was low but filled with simmering rage. His piercing gaze locked onto hers, demanding

    going to stop by your office," she began cautiously, "but I remembered we

    Sandra swallowed, her mind racing to form a coherent response. "I was going t agreed to limit our menting. I was about to call you-

    That''s not what I''m asking Michael interrupted, his voice rising slightly. "What are you up to! Why haven''t you been carrying me along? You''ve been acting recklessly, Sandra, making moves without consulting me.

    Sandra opened her mouth, taken aback by his directness. "I didn''t do anything wrong," she said defensively, "I only called Derek to see if we could meet, bur Furlyn got involved, so [="

    "So you thought it was a good idea to involve De

    Derek''s mother?" Michael''s voice cracked Like a whip, causing Sandra to Linch.

    He stood up from the chair and red at her. "Do you even realize what you''ve done? You went and called his mother. Do you really thank Derck was going toe running back to you alter that?"

    Sandra''s eyes widened in indignation. "Thad to do something! I didn''t expect Evelyn to interfere the way she dat She''s still hanging around Derrk. and Incerted his mom to know and p

    I get rid of her?

    "Are you that stupid!" Miral snarled, turning to face be fully "Why would you bring his mother into this? You''re supposed to handle things like an adult, not like some desperate food clinging to a man''s mother for help! You should have called me instead, and I would have taken the matter to her myself

    Bandra felt the sting of his words but fought in keepi Evelyn said to me"

    Michael used, arrowing his eyes. "What did Evelyn way

    Sandra''s heath quickened as the memory of the confrontation resurfaced. "She said she wanted Derek for herself. She said he was bers, and I could have you see she left you for me!

    Michacks exjorasion darkened, has jas ring "She and that in front of Derek

    12:18 PM dd

    "No." Sandra muttered. "At her office earlier when I went to confront her."

    Michael''s patience snapped. "You went to her office? Are you out of your mind?" He strode toward her, the tension in his movements apparent. "What is wrong with you? Do you even think before you act? Evelyn could have recorded the entire conversation! She''s smarter than you give her

    credit for."

    Sandra stiffened, refusing to back down. "I didn''t say anything that could be used against me. I only told her to stay away from Derek. That''s all."

    Michael exhaled sharply, rubbing his temples as if trying to suppress a building headache. "Sandra, is this still about our n, or is this about you?" His voice was quieter now but no less cutting. "Why are you asking me that sort of question?" Sandra asked with a scow!

    "Because I want to know. I noticed your behavior after your date with Derek. Tell me right now, are we still on the same page? Because you''re not acting like you care about our n anymore."

    Her chest tightened at his usation. T''m sticking to the n!" she insisted, her voice rising defensively. "I just don''t want Evelyn ruining everything for us. She''s trying to sabotage me, and if I don''t stop her, she''ll get Derek, and everything we are working for will be gone."

    Michael stared at her for a long moment, his eyes searching hers. Then he sighed deeply, a look of cold disappointment settling on his face. "Tell me exactly all you talked about with Evelyn," he ordered. Sandra went on to tell him all she could remember that Evelyn had said, and when she was done, he sighed deeply.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "Sandra, you need to stop acting on impulse. You''re making mistakes that could cost us everything. From now on, you don''t make a move without informing me first. No more surprises." The finality in his voice left no room for argument.

    "Fine. I''ve heard you," she said with resignation.

    Michael continued. "If you take one more reckless step without consulting me, I won''t take it lightly. Do you understand?"

    Sandra swallowed hard, her pride warring with the fear of losing Michael''s support. "I understand. I''m sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    Without another word, Michael stormed out of her office, the door mming shut behind him with a force that made Sandra flinch. She stood there, rooted to the spot, her mind spinning with different emotions- anger, fear, and frustration

    But one thing remained clear in her mind: she couldn''t afford to lose. Not to anyone. And most especially not to Evelyn.

 Chapter 95

    mskipped a

    The shrill ring of Evelyn''s phone shattered the quiet of her office, palling her out of her reverie. She nced at the screen, and her heart s?

    beat Susan.

    She had been dreading this call all day since her encounter with Derek''s Mom, a call she thought

    mighte but still hoped it wouldn''t

    For a moment, she considered not answering it, letting it ring until it stopped, but that would only dy the inevitable. With a deep breath, she siriped so answer and brought the phone to her ear, hoping that she was wrong; and Susan was only calling to find out her ns for Derek''s Intendew that week.

    "Hello, Susan," she said, trying to keep her voice calm despite the anxiety bubbling inside her.

    "Evelyn," her boss''s voice came through, uncharacteristically seilt, and Evelyn inurediately knew something was wrong. "T. I''m sorry to do is over. the phone. You''re a great employer, and if it were up to just me, this wouldn''t be happening, but unfortunately, the board has made their decision." Evelyn sat up straight, her pulse quickening. "What decision?" she asked, though a part of her already knew to let you go

    Susan passed before she spoke again, and that brief hesitation felt like a hammer waiting to drop. "The board has decided to

    The words hit Evelyn like a blow to the chest, but she didn''t react immediately. She sat frozen, her mind racing, trying to make sense of it. "Let me go?" she repeated slowly as if hearing the words again might change them. "Susan why are they doing this? Why am I being punished for doing my job?"

    There was another pause. "I''m really sorry. Evelyn. This decision wasn''t mine. There''s nothing I can do. Wes will be stepping in to take over."

    Evelyn felt a surge of anger rising within her. Her grip tightened around the phone as she hit back her initial response. After all the hard work, the loyalty, the sacrifices, and this is how it ended? She wasn''t even worth a proper meeting; it was just a phone call to cast her aside like an expendable piece.

    "Why do you all keep toying with me like this?" Evelyn''s voice shook with frustration. "Why do I have to keep putting up with any of this? Why can''t an international brand like Empowered protect its employees? I did everything you asked of me, Susan I dedicated years to thispany, and this is how I''m repaid? Fired for doing my job- because someone powerful is pulling your strings!"

    "I understand, I really do," Susan''s voice wavered with guilt. "But my hands are tied. It''s out of my control. You know how these things work... once the board decides..

    "I don''t want to hear it," Evelyn snapped, unable to hold back her frustration any longer. "This is unfair, Susan, and you know it."

    "I''m so sorry." Susan whispered again, but Evelyn had already heard enough.

    Without another word, Evelyn ended the call, dropping her phone on the desk with a sharp thud. The silence that followed was deafening, but it didn''tst long. The anger swelled inside her, hot and sharp, until it bubbled over. She grabbed the edge of her desk, forcing herself to take deep breaths

    She should have seen thising. It shouldn''t have been so surprising, seeing as the board had always wanted Wes here, and she had narrowly escaped being fired the previous week.

    But strangely, despite the frustration and anger, there was no sorrow. She wasn''t devastated. Instead, a calm realization began to creep in. Maybe this was exactly what she needed

    She had nned to leave Empowered after resolving things with her father anyway, hadn''t she? She had always known that one day, she would return to her family''spany and take her rightful ce there. This this was just life''s way of pushing her out of herfort zone and making her go there sooner than nned,

    Evelyn stood, methodically clearing her desk. She gathered her personal items. Every movement felt deliberate and final. As she looked around the office onest time, she fel a surprising sense of closure. Thankfully, she hadn''t worked in this office long enough to be attached to it. And although Empowered Magazine had been her life for so long, in was time to let it go.

    As she left the office, walking through the corridors, her steps felt ligler than expected. It was over. She was free. Now, they had nothing more to hold over her. No one would exercise such control over her anymore.

    When she arrived home, the house was quiet, and Maya wasn''t in. She checked the time and realized that Maya had already left to pick Samantha up from school

    Evelyn dropped her handbag on the couch and headed straight for the kitchen to get a ss the bedroom...

    ss of water. After taking a long sap from it, she headed for

    After taking off her clothes, she decided to freshen up and get some rest before she focused on nning her next nove

    As she stepped into the shower, the water hit her skin, soothing the remnants of tension that clung to her body. She stood under the stream for a long time, letting the heat wash away her frustration. After her shower, she wrapped herself in her bathrobe and headed to the bedroom. She sank into her bed, the soft sheets weing her.

    She closed her eyes for a moment, thinking about everything that had happened in the past few days. Losing her job was the final push she needed to focus on herself, her family, and her future. She was going to make sure Sandra regretted every move that led her here.

    The sound of the doorbell startled her. She frowned, wondering why Maya would be ringing the bell instead of justing in.

    Getting out of bed. she adjusted her robe and made her way to the front door. When she opened it, her eyes widened in surprise.

    "Derek?" she eximed, blinking at him. He stood on her doorstep, looking worried. "What are you doing here?" She asked, her heart beating fast as she realized that Samantha might be back in any moment.

    "I''ve been trying to reach you, Derek said, stepping closer, concern etched in his features. "Your boss told me what happened... that they let you go. I tried calling, but you weren''t picking up. I was worried." he said as he searched her face, relieved to see that she hadn''t been crying.

    Evelyn sighed, running a hand through her damp hair. "I was in the shower. I didn''t hear the phone. But yeah. They fired me," she said, thinking about whether to invite him in right now or send him off and meet with him somewhere else.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Derek''s brow furrowed, and he stepped even closer, his hand resting lightly on her arm. "I''m sorry, Eve. This is all my fault. I''m going to resolve it

    all soon.

    Evelyn shook her head, "It''s not your fault. You don''t have to worry about that," she said, thinking that she needed to get him to leave immediately else she won''t get the chance to tell him about it and prepare him.

    "Are you okay?" Derek asked when he noticed she seemed to be ufortable.

    "Why don''t we m

    meet upter? I need to.."

    Before Evelyn could finish, a high-pitched voice interrupted them from behind. "Rek!"

 Chapter 96

    Derek and Evelyn turned, and in both their surprise, Samantha came barreling at of a cali, her schoolbag bouncing on her back. she ran tow and Derek her face lighting up with joy.

    "Rek!" Samantha shouted again, finging her arms around him in a free hug, Derek, taken aback, knelt down to embrace her, hu ryes wide in Surprise

    "Sam" he chuckled as he lifted her and rose, "This is my line friend I told you about, he said to Evelyn, looking between Samantha and Evelyni

    "I didn''t expect to see you here, Sam What are you doing here?" He asked, turning to look at Maya:

    Maya''s eyes widened as she took in the sight before her, and she nced between Evelyn and Derek. Her surprise was evident, especially as her gare lingered on Derek, the man Evelyn seemed to know personally

    Evelyn''s stomach sted. She could feel Maya''s curiosity and confusion raduating from across the distance, but there was no time to address it had to focus on Derck, who sull stood in front of her.

    "This is my house. And this is my pretty Mommy, Samantha announced procally, her ile fare lighting up with excitement, all of her mother''s warning to stay away from Derek forgotten.

    Evelyn froze, her heart thudding in her chest as the simile slid off his face. His entire demeanor slided at that single word

    His confusion was instant as his eyes flickered between Evelyn and the little girl in his arms, has brow katting in surpre Evelyn''s breach hitched as she met Derek''s gaze, his eyes full of questions. The word "mommy" hung between them.

    "Mommy?" His voice was low, almost disbelieving.

    Evelyn swallowed hard, panic gripping her, but before she could speak. Samantha spoke again. "Did you e with hopeful eyes, oblivious to the tension between the two adults

    Dragging his gaze away from Evelyn. Derek smiled at Samantha, I guess I did once again, without meaning to, he said, his gaze flickering to Evelyn as he wondered what was going on

    Evelyn had a child Samantha was Evelyn''s child? How? Why did she keep it away from him this whole time? Was that the reason she had asked him not to show up at her ce unannounced? How long did the n to keep it a secret from him? Who was Samantha''s father? Was it Michael''

    Evelyn watched as Derek''s expression, which had been softened by concern and care, hardened with confusion and questions. His gaze locked onto Evelyn, his eyes narrowing as though searching for answers

    Evelyn didn''t have time to react as Samantha wrapped her arms around Derek''s neck. "Mommy, can I show Rek what I drew in school today!" she asked, her voiced with innocent enthusiasm. Evelyn cleared her throat, "I was going to tell you," she said in an unfamiliar voier.

    Maya, who remained where she stood, staring at the trio awkwardly, moved quickly, realizing that whatever this was, they needed "Sammy, let''s go in Maya said, reaching for Samantha, and Derek let her go.

    space to talk

    "You cane in." Evelyn said to Derck after Maya and Samantha went in since she did not have any mor Derek stared at her for a few seconds without saying anything, and she could see the wheels turning in his mind before he finally gave her a nod and stepped inside.

    more reason to keep him

    "You can make yoursellfortable. I''ll join you in a munure," she said, needing a minute to pull herself together because her heart was beating text fast.

    Evelyn wens into Samantha''s bedroom and turned to Maya. "Iners you to take Sath to the park for some time. I will let you know when I''m done," she said, and Maya nodded, while Samantha poured "Can I y with Rck now she asked with a pout, and Evelin forced a smile

    "Soon, baby. Mommy needs so talk cek right now. Evelyn coaxed softly, and Samantha bobbed her head enthusiastically

    Walking away from there. Evelyn went into her bedroom to change into something more appropriate since the bathrobe she was covered in making her feel just as physically exposed and vulnerable as she was emotionally

    In the long ro

    ruan, Derek dul not sa online he remained standing as his gare reamed over the photo frames at Evelyn and Samatha  decorated the long pouchThis text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Abdugh he was achieved stoner

    no man was in the pumer,s uumid raced such thoughts of Evelyn''s secrecy.

    It all made sense now. He met Samantha at the hotel while Evelyn was there, and then he met her at the park just around Evelyn''s block.

    Was she the reason Evelyn had refused to date him this whole time? Was Evelyn feeling embarrassed because she was a single mother?

    He looked up when Evelyn returned, dressed in a sweatshirt and faded jeans trousers, and his gaze shifted behind her when he saw Maya and

    Samantha, too.

    "Rek. I''m going to the park," Samantha announced. She was happy to leave her mother and Rek alone since she was hoping that they would get married and Rek would be her daddy. "I will see youter then." Derek said, shing her a smile.

    He watched as Evelyn kissed her forehead before escorting her to the door. The moment the door closed behind Samantha, his smile slid off his face as Evelyn turned to face him, her mouth dry.

    The silence between them was thick, charged with the weight of unspoken words. She knew what wasing and wasn''t sure how to navigate the storm she had long been avoiding Derek''s gaze hadn''t left her. "Samantha is truly your daughter?" His voice was calm..

    Evelyn opened her mouth to respond, but her throat felt constricted, and the words refused toe. How could she exin this? Where was she to

    start from?"

    "Talk to me, Eve," he urged her, his voice still calm.

    Evelyn bobbed her head. "Yes. Samantha is my daughter, she admitted

 Chapter 97

    velyn words seemed to suck the air out of the room. For a moment, Derek just stared at her, his expression unreadable, as if trying to process what she had just said. The silence stretched between them, thick with tension.

    Finally, Evelyn spoke again after gathering her thoughts, "Earlier, you asked me why I waited six years to return. It was because I found out I was pregnant

    "You found out you were pregnant!" His voice was a low rasp,

    Evelyn nodded, her throat tight. "Yes. I found out I was pregnant. So, I didn''t want to return, considering how I left things," Evelyn said, watching him and waiting for his reartion.

    he processed what she had just said. "Is this what you were going to tell me earlier?" He asked, and when she

    Derek was silent for a moment as be nodded, he sighed.

    It made sense that she had been resisting his advances this whole time because she had a child for Michael and probably didn''t know how to tell

    him about it.

    He could also guess that she had kept it away from him because she didn''t ward Michael to know about his child, and she probably feared that he would tell Michael if she told him. And she was telling him now because she believed she could trust him

    I''m sorry, I know I should have told."

    At the same time. Derek spoke. "That is why you''ve been turning me down this whole time, asn''t it?" He asked in a tone that suggested that he had figured out everything and he understood. Evelyn stared at him in confusion, wondering what he was talking about, "What are you talking about?"

    "I mean Michael''s child. I would have been more understanding if you had told me from the start. And I can assure you that I don''t care that you have a child for him. It doesn''t change how I feel about you." "Samantha is not Michael''s daughter." Evelyn cur in immediately.

    "But you said.

    "Yes. She is mine, but she is not Michael''s," she said and then paused to let her words sink in.

    Derek frowned, "If the child is not for Michael, then whose trailed off, when he remembered that when she had told him earlier about what happened between her and Michael, she had told him that Michael was her first love and he, Derek, was the only other guy she had been with after

    Michael.

    No way. There was no way Ex daughter

    Evelyn could have a child for him, Derek mused, not wanting to consider the possibility that Samantha was his

    How was that possible! It did not make sense that she had his child, yet they''d been seeing each other for the past three weeks, and not once did she mention it. It did not make sense that she had his child yet had been resisting all his advances

    As much at he didn''t want to believe it, he could tell from the way she stared at him that that was precisely what she was trying to say.

    Not wanting to make any assumptions, be held her gaze. "Is Samantha mine! Even as he asked, his heart raced.

    Evelyn swallowed as she nodded, "Yes."

    Derek staggered backward as if the ground had been ripped out from under him. He sank into the couch, his face pale and his hands trembling slightly as he tried to wrap his mind around the reality Evelyn had just revealed.

    "You have got to be kidding me he

    e muttered under his breath.

    "I''m sorry, Derek. I know this maye as a su

    surprise..

    "No kidding!" He said as he rose to face her, "What exactly are you trying to tell me. Evelyn? You expect me to believe di Samantha is my daughter, yet you deliberately kept her away from me this whole! Wait, did you leave the hotel and change to a different hotel because you didn''t want me to find out about her? My own daughter? He asked angrily.

    Evelyn swallowed hard, ferling the sting of her own guilt wing at her chest. Im sorry."

    Derek asked agat, bu

    "Net No. I don''t want you in be sorry. Inred an exnation. A good one, damn it! Derek snapped. "Why didn''t you tell me De voire hunter now. I had a right to know about in this whole time

    "I was going in" Evelyn shaped her voice barely audible.

    When When Evelyn" He asked, standing in front of her and staring her down.

    "When I came back into the country, a part of my n was to see if I could find you and maybe check if you''d be interested in co-parenting. But then I saw you and realized you were Michael''s cousin. What was I supposed to do? How was I supposed to tell you that our reckless encounter, which was proposed by me, resulted in pregnancy!" She asked defensively.

    "And so the best thing to do was to keep it to yourself?" He asked in disbelief

    "Not I was going to tell you. After all, the mess has been resolved. I didn''t want to bring my child into this. I thought I''d tell you about it after I''ve cleared my name."

    "Your child" You thought you''d tell me after you cleared your name?" Derek echoed, incredulous. "Can you hear just how selfish that sounds?" Derek asked, staring at her like he didn''t know her.

    I was going

    tell you everything earlier at the hotel before your Mom came in. I was only trying to do what I thought was best for us all. What the could I have done?" She asked feeling frustrated and annoyed.

    "Are you being serious" Derek asked when he heard the annoyance in her tone, "What about simple honesty, Evelyn? I''ve been honest and straight with you from the beginning. Not once have I lied or kept secrets from you! That is the same thing I expected from you. in honesty! Do you have any idea what this means?"

    Reminding herself that she had no right to feel annoyed when she was the one who had messed up. Evelyn took a deep breath and blinked back. the tears threatening to spill.

    I''m sorry. Derek. I know I should have told you about her sooner, but I wasn''t in the right space of mind to handle it. I was scared. And I wanted to proiect Sam and myself. I don''t care if you call that selfish or stupid, but I did what I believed was right for us," Evelyn said, her tears finally slipping

    free.

    Derek turned his back to her and rested his forehead on the wall. "Thave a daughter. Sam is my daughter," he said as if saying the words aloud would make them more believable.

    "You''re telling me that we have a daughter! You and me?" He asked, turning to look ar Evelyn again.

    Evelyn hit her lip and nodded. "We can have a DNA test to confirm it,"

    Derek stood there for several moments, staring at the floor, his mind reeling. He didn''t know what to say or how to react. The anger he had felt moments ago was now tangled with shock, disbelief, and something far more profound-a deep ache that he had missed our on the first six years of his child''s life.

    "Why didn''t you tell me sooner, Eve?" he asked his voice hoarse. "I would have been there for you, Evelyn. For both of you."

    "I know" she said, wiping at her eyes. "I know that now. But back then, I couldn''t see it. I thought I was doing the right thing, hiding her away from the mess of my past I didn''t want her to be dragged into any of this mess. I thought I was protecting her,"N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Derek shook his head, disbelief exched into his features. "You should''ve trusted me. You should have let me protect you both instead of making that

    choice for us

    Evelyn walked toward him, her hands trembling as she reached out but stopped short of touching him. "You''re right. I made the wrong choice, and I''m so sorry for that. I can''t take back what I did, but I''m here now, telling you everything," she said, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

    "It''s okay," he said, palling her close and embracing her.

    Evelyn wrapped her arms around them as she broke into a sob, relieved that she had finally told him the truth and she didn''t have to worry about It anymore.

    "It''s fine. As much as I don''t like it. I understand. And now you don''t have to worry anymore. I''m going to protect you and Sam now," he murmured as he rested his chin on the top of her head and parted her back

    After she had cried for some time. Derek pulled back and looked into her face and then he brushed away her tears with his thumb, "Does anyone the know about ber*"

    "Just my Moen and Raya. I n on telling my Dad tomorrow," she said, and he sighed.

    "And they know I''m herther""

    "Only Rayna knows She ctually convinced me to tell you," Evelyn confessed

    "I see. And Sam! Have you said anything to her?"

    Evelyn shook her lead. No. I haven''t told her anything yet. I wanted to wait until I told you

    you first," Evelyn said, and Derek nodded.

    "I need in tre her. Evelyn. I need to know my daughter. I want you both in my life," he said, and she smiled.

    "I was hoping you would," Evelyn said, her voice soft and vulnerable.

    "And about tomorrow, can I be there when you talk to your parents?" he asked when he remembered how her father had treated her at the party.

    "You want to?" She asked, taken aback by his request.

    "Yes."

    "Why?" She ac

    "Why?" She asked, and he shook his head.

    "Let''s talk about thatter. For now, I want you to introduce me to our daughter."

 Chapter 98

    Arlyn and Derek waited for Maya to bring Samantha back from the park. Derek paced the living room, his mind still spinning from the revtion

    He couldn''t wrap has head around it-Samantha, the bright little girl he adored and had grown in fond of, was actually his daughter. Every interaction they''d had suddenly took on new meaning. Flow had he not seen it before!

    He nced at Evelyn, who sat on the couch, her eyes following his every step. And as much as a part of him was still upset that he had missed out

    I save of her. on the earlier years of Samantha''s life and that Evelyn hard deliberately kept the much from him for over three weeks, he was still

    She had done such an amazing job raising Samantha alone, and that thought filled him with awe. Evelyn, the woman he had fallen for at first sight. and lost, had carried the weight of motherhood by herself while he remained oblivious.

    "What are you thinking" Evelyn''s voice cut through the silence when she saw him staring at her.

    Derek shook his head. "I''m still just.. trying to wrap my head around the fact that you have a child for me, and not just any child. Samantha I just can''t believe that Samantha is actually my child," he admitted, his voice raw with emotion

    Misunderstanding what he meant, she frowned, "We could have a DNA.

    "No. Don''t get me wrong, Eve. I don''t doubt you. Not in any way. It''s just that all this time, we''ve been interacting, and I didn''t know" He let out a soft, disbelieving chuckle. "From the first time I met her. I fch this connection to her, but couldn''t exin why. Now, it totally makes sense. I never really believed in those craps about the parent and child connection, but I know I felt it with Sam. There was this pull. This inexplicable feeling" Evelyn smiled faintly, understanding his shock. "I was surprised on when I realized you were the ''Rek'' Samantha always talked abour." Derek''s brow furrowed. "When did you know about my friendship with berr"

    "I always knew Samantha had a little friend called Rek. Evelyn said, her voice soft. "From the first day we arrived in Ludus, I knew she had met him in the hotel lobby. I always assumed he was a kid she had a crush on. I didn''t know Rek was an adult let alone you, until Saturday. That was when Maya corrected my impression and everything clicked."

    Derek frowned

    "So, when we talkedst night and I told you about my little friend, did you know I was talking about Samantha?"

    Evelyn swallowed hard, guh flickering in her eyes as she gave him a nod. "Yes I knew."

    Derek''s jaw tightened, a mix of frustration and understanding swirling in his chest. "You could''ve told me then. Why didn''t you?"

    Evelyn sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I didn''t know how. I was still processing everything myself. How was I supposed to say something like that in the middle of our conversation?" She asked, and Derek sighed

    ¡°I

    suppose you''re right

    "And I

    actually sold Samantha to stop hanging out with you, especially after she told me she asked you to marry her. Evelyn confessed, but to her surprise, Derek chuckled.

    Now that Derek remembered Samantha''s innocent request, he smiled. "She put me in such an awkward position with that," he said, shaking his hrad

    "I''m sure she did. I was taken aback when she told me that." Evelyn admitted and Derek walked over to sit beside her.

    "You did such a wonderful job raising her on your own. Eve. I can''t imagine how tough it must have been doing it all alone especially considering how beanbroken you must have been at the time. Thank you for keeping the pregnancy even though you didn''t even know me. Thank you for taking good care of our daughter. Thank you for bringing her back to me. She''s such a beautiful and wonderful chuld, Derek said, and seats gathered in Evelyn''s eyel

    "I''m in the picture now, so you don''t have to do it alone anymore. You won''t have to. And just so you know, you are stuck with me for life now You really can''t leave me anymore. Eve. We are going to be a family. I want you and Sam in my life. You''re going to be my wife, Eve. Im not asking Im telling you Derek said, and Exclyn''s lips riched with amusement

    "And if I uy sol

    Fm sure Sample you My no. And if you do, I''m just going to kidnap you to live with me case there''s no way out," he said, and she giggled

    take you to an ind somewhere far away, and you''ll be forord

    "Do you really think we can do that, Derek?" Evelyn asked, her doubts and worries swimming in h

    in her green EL,

    "We can. And we will," he said, and then, his stile faded when he remembered something else.

    the many always let people t

    to Samanthus the way the let anse!" 11

    He asked with a from

    12-10 PM c d

    Evelyn sighed again. "Honestly? I have no idea. Maya is a good nanny. She''s been with us since Samantha was a baby. But I was surprised when I found out how much ess she allowed you to have. I scolded her for it, so I''m sure she won''t repeat it."

    Derek''s expression darkened. "Now that I know Sam is my daughter, I''m not okay with that We need to make sure no one has that kind of ess to her unless we approve. I don''t even want anyone looking at her twice. Im going to have to talk with her

    Evelyn nodded, a smile twitching her lips at his instant protectiveness. "You''re right. That has to stop"

    Derek crossed his arms, his mind already shifting to the dangers surrounding them. "And until we deal with Sandra and Michael, we need to take extra precautions. I don''t trust them not to try something if they find out about Samantha. We can''t risk it."

    Evelyn''s face tightened with worry. "Tve been thinking of that too. I''ve been doing my best to keep her a secret."

    "How about I move you both to somewhere safer? This ce is too open. Anyone driving by can see you. Let''s get a house in a more private environment. Probably an estate," he suggested..

    "We have been moving from one ce to another since I returned to Ludus..."

    "Running from me, Derek pointed out.

    Evelyn winced. "Not totally. But Samantha needs to be stable."

    "And she will be. What I mean is, let''s get our home. You and Samantha can stay there, and I''ll stay in the hotel until we have resolved everything And then when we get married, I''ll move in with you," Derek said, and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat.

    "Our home? Isn''t that too soon? I mean, aren''t we moving too fast?" She asked, and Derek looked at her incredulously.

    "If you ask me, we are not moving fast enough. I''ve missed out on both you and Sam''s life, and I don''t want to waste more time than necessary. I don''t think you understand yet that I love you. You''ve been engraved in my heart from the moment I saw you six years ago, and I want you in my life. Not temporarily, Eve. I want you for life," Derek said, his voice firm yet gentle.

    "Now, back to the subject, I want you out of here," he said, and she sighed.

    "But her school is nearby and my

    "She

    yoffice..." she trailed off when she remembered she had lost her job.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    can keep attending the school. I will get you a car, Sam will have a car and a driver to take her to school and bring her back daily. I don''t want to take any chances. I don''t know the length Michael and Sandra intend to go, but I want you both to be safe. Let me do it for Sam''s sake, Derek said, and Evelyn took a deep breath.

    Before Evelyn could respond, the doorbell rang, and they both turned as the sound echoed through the room.

 Chapter 99

    Knowing what was about to happen, Evelyn took a deep breath as she walked to the door and opened it to reveal Maya standing with Samantha. who was smiling brightly, unaware of the gravity of the moment

    Samantha bounded into the room, her wide eyes lighting up when she saw that Derek was innocent voice filling the room.

    as still there. "I''m back," she announced to Derek, her

    Seeing her again now, Derek couldn''t believe he was so lucky to have her as his daughter, Staring at her, he remembered the patron at the hotel talking about how they looked alike, and now he could see it- especially her eyes, which looked like his. Derek''s heart ached with love for this little girl who was his

    "Wee back," he said, shing her a smile,

    r room to give them

    Maya''s gaze flickered between Evelyn and Derek, sensing something different in the air. Just as she started to walk away to her room to privacy, Evelyn stopped her.

    "Join us, Maya. Please sit down." Evelyn said, and Maya nodded as she went to sit down oppoviae Derek.

    Derek nced at Evelyn, waiting for her to speak. His heart pounded as he realized that in just a few moments, Samantha''s world- and his- would change forever

    Evelyn kock down in front of Samantha, forcing a smile as she gently took her daughter''s hands. "Sweetheart," she began, her voice tender but trembling slightly, "there''s something important I need to talk to you about"

    Samantha bobbed her head as she looked at Evelyn with wide, innocent eyes. Then she nced at Derek, wondering why her mother looked so serious and what she wanted to say

    "Remember hour you always used to say everyone has a daddy! And you always asked me about your daddy?" She said, and once again, Samantha bobbed her brad.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Evelyn nced at Derek, and he gave her a nod. "Your friend. Rek.. isn''t just Rek. He''s actually your daddy"

    Maya gasped sohly behind them, her hand flying to her mouth in shock, but Samantha''s curiosity changed to confusion.

    "My daddy" she repeated, ncing from her mother to Derek.

    "Yes, baby" Evelyn said, her voice thick with emotion. "Rek is not just your friend. He is your daddy

    Samantha blinked, processing the information slowly. Her eyes shifted to Derck as though seeking confirmation, and he nodded, his heart in his throat.

    For a moment, Samantha stood there, wide-eyed and silent. "Are you going to be my daddy because my mommy is pretty and you''re marrying her, or you are my daddy!" She asked, wanting to understand what it was

    Derek''s lips twitched, amused by her intelligent question. Even Evelyn smiled, but before she could rify it. D

    Derek spoke.

    I''m your daddy, Sam. Your mommy and I made you" Derek said softly, holding out his hand as he crouched down to her level.

    Then, in a burst of emotion, she ran into Derek''s arms, hugging him tightly. "You''re really my daddy, Rek?" she asked, her voice muffled chat

    against his

    Derek wrapped his arms around her as he nodded, his throat tight with unshed tears. "Yes, sweetheart. I''m your daddy. And I''m going to take care of you and your mommy. I promise."

    Samantha pulled back slightly, locking up at him with a bright smile. "Are you really going to marry my mommy too! Like I asked?"

    Derek chuckled through his tears, nodding "Yes, I''m going to marry your pretty monany, just like you wanted."

    hurt

    Samantha squealed with joy, throwing her arms around Derek''s neck again. Derek held her close, his heart swelling with a love so fierce it almost

    Tears streamed down his face as he silently promised himself that he would protect and cherish both Samantha and Evelyn with everything he had. No matter what, he wouldn''t let anything happen to them Opening his eyes, he looked at Evelyn and signaled her over as he rose with Samantha in his arms

    As Evelyn joined the hug. Maya ru full of questions, but she was mostly stated.

    rose and walked out of the living room, wanting to give the family privacy. Her heart was racing, and her head was

    This was his family, and he would h fight for them with his life. Derek promised himself as he k

    as he kissed both their foreheads.

    Ira

    The family moment was interrupted by Derek''s phone buzzing, and he pulled back to take it out of his pocket.

    Evelyn reached out to take Samantha from Derek, but she clung to Derek. "Not yet. Mommy," she said. Derekughed while Evelyn rolled her eyes. but a unile yed on her lips.

    Derek scowled when he saw Michael calling. "It''s Michael," he told Evelyn.

    "Pat her down and take the call," Evelyn said, then gave Samantha a pointed look. "Go to your room, sweetheart," Evelyn said firmly. pouted as she did as she was told.

    Derek received the call and ced it on speaker, "What''s up. Mike?"

    "Hey, Bek! I was just at your office and learned you were not there. Where are you?" He asked casually

    "Why? Is there a problem?" Derek asked without bothering to answer his question.

    and Samantha

    Michael hesitated, "Not exactly. I heard from your Mom and Sandra, so I wanted to check on you. Sandra wanted me to apologize for involving your Mom

    Evelyn rolled her eyes, and Derek''s lips twitched, "Ask her not to worry, I''m not mad at her. I was only meeting with Evelyn to talk about our interview, but now that she has been fired, I guess I have no reason to meet with her anymore, Derek said, and Evelyn scowled at him, making him

    grin.

    "Really? She has been fred?" Michael asked, with obvious joy in his voice.

    "Yeah. You know my Mom. She doesn''t joke," Derek said with a sigh. "Why don''t we hang outter after work? I need a drink after the craziness of today." Derek said, and Michael smirked.

    ¡°Sure. Let''s do that. You''re not mad at Sandra, right?" Michael asked, wanting to be wire.

    "Nah. Not at all. I''m sure she only did that because she was worried. We all know how jealous these females can be, Derek said, and Michaelughed.

    "Of course. You should be careful with Evelyn, though Sandra told me Evelyn said some shocking things about wanting you," Michael said, and Derek grinned at Evelyn

    "She did! Interesting, Anyway, let''s talkter. I''m in the middle of something important, Derek said, and then, as he hung up the call. Evelyn punched him yfully, "What was all that about" She asked, and he chuckled.

    "Alright. I was going to tell you some other stuff when I got here, but the whole revtion distracted me," Derek said, and Evelyn raised a brow. "What d

    did you

    want to talk about" She asked, and he gestured that they sit down.

    Derek told her about his conversation with his father and his decision to get someone to hack Michael''s and Sandra''s phones.

    "Although I have someone following Michael and keeping an eye on him. Earlier, he was at Sandra''s office. But his phone will be much faster to

    track.

    "I think that''s a brilliant idea," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "Yeah. So, that''s why I won''t be with you publicly for the time being. But that doesn''t mean I''m going to stay away from you. I''ll get the house as 1 said. It will be in a secure environment. That way, just anyone can''t get in, Derek said, and Evelyn stared at him for a moment before giving him a nod.

    "Alright. Let''s do that, Let me know how I can help, although Rayna is helping me keep an eye on Sandra," Evelyn said, and then she told him about Sandra''s visit to Rayna and all she had said.

    Derek shook his head when she was done, "She seems obsessed with you."

    "I have no idea why. Evelyn said, and Derck chuckled.

    "Well, I''m obsessed with you, and I can tell you why he said, making her smile.

    "I guess the interview won''t be holding anymore." Derek said, and Evelyn scoffed.

    "It will. But just not at Empowered. I''m going back to work at the People''s Times. Sandra won''t know what hit her." Evelyn said, and Derekughed. "Fierer! I like it," he said with a nod of approval. "I think your friend Rayna is really good for you, otherwise, we would have kept going anal in circles. I owe her one, lie added, and Evelynughed sofily.

    "Now get me, Samantha. I need to spend some time with her before leaving. I''ve got

    gos so much to do now."

 Chapter 100

    Although Derek had spent over two hours with Samantha already, she was still clinging to him. Her face was bright with joy as she showed him each of the items around her room and the story behind them. "Daddy" Samantha called, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

    "Yes, Samantha!" Derek asked, looking at her with so much love in his eyes.

    No matter the number of times he had heard her call him that in thest couple of hours, his heart still did a flip-flop each time the called him that

    "Daddddy?" She drawled.

    "Yes, Sammannny?" Derek asked, imitating her drawl, and she giggled.

    "Daddddddy?"

    Derek chuckled this time. "Alright. I give up. What is it. Sam?" He asked, and she giggled as she shook her headl

    "I just love to call you Daddy. You''re no longer just Rek. You''re daddy," Samantha said, and Derek chuckled.

    "And you''re my baby." Derek said, and Samantha grinned.

    "Then when I say Daddy, you should say baby," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "Okay, babbbby, Derek drawled, and Samantha giggled happily.

    "Dadddddy!"

    "Yes, Habbbbby!"

    Evelyn, who was busypiling pictures and videos of Samantha from when she was little to the present into a sh drive, listened to their conversation andughter. Sheughed softly, too, her heart swelling with happiness at her daughter''s joy.

    She was very relieved now that she had told Derek the truth. And his understanding reaction to it both surprised and pleased her. Now, she didn''t have to resist him or her feelings for him anymore. now," he said, and

    She looked up from herptop when Derek knocked on her open bedroom door, carrying Samantha in his arms, "I have to go n Evelyn nced at her screen to make sure all the pictures had been sent before pulling out the sh drive and rising.

    "You''re leaving?" Samantha asked with a frown, and Derek chuckled.

    "Now, I have to go for a little while, but I be back soon, okay?" Derek replied, giving her a warm smile.

    Samantha poured slightly but nodded. "Okay, Daddy Promise you''lle back?"

    "Promise," Derek said, giving her a gentle kiss on the forehead. "I''ll see youter," he promised before setting Samantha on her feet. Derek turned to Evelyn. "I need to speak with Maya for a moment," he said, his voice serious.

    Evelyn nodded, "I''ll get her," she said, and as Derek walked towards the living room, Evelyn went to Maya''s bedroom to get her, A minuteter, Maya joined Derek in the living room with a curious expression, and Derek motioned for her to sit down. "Maya, Derek began once they were alone, "I want to thank you for everything you''ve done for Samantha. Evelyn''s told me h with her, and I really appreciate it. how great you''ve been

    Maya''s eyes widened slightly, her heart p

    pounding with nervous anticipation, "Thank you, Mr. Derek. I''ve always tried to take good care of her." Derek nodded. "I''ve noticed. I used to think you were Samantha''s mom because of how attentive you were. I realized you weren''t this past weekend."

    -Derek paused for a moment. "But now that I know Samantha is my daughter, I want to make sure we''re all on the same page."

    Maya''s expression shifted to one of confusion. "What do you mean?"

    "I need to be clear about a few things," Derek said firmly. "As much as I''m grateful that you let me get so close to my daughter unknowingly, I''d like to ask that you not allow any strangers near Samantha or let her go near them. We can''t take any risks, especially considering I could have easily been someone dangerous, and you wouldn''t have known"

    Maya kryes softened with understanding. I understand. I''ll make sure no one gets close to her without your on Evelyn''s permission."

    Derek offered her a reassuring smile. "Thank you, Maya. I appreciate your understanding. And to show my appreciation, I''d like to offer you a sry raise. You''ve been more than just a nanny; you''ve been a crucial part of Samantha''s life."

    Maya''s eyes filled with gratitude. "That''s very generous of you, Mr. Derek. Thank you,"

    Derek nodded. "You''re wee. You''re doing a wonderful job, and I wanted you to know it doesn''t go unnoticed."

    As they finished their conversation, Derek walked back to Evelyn''s room, where Evelyn was waiting. He walked over to her, pulling her into a warm embrace and nting a soft kiss on her lips.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    "I''ll call youter," Derek promised, his voice tender. "And before the end of the week, I''ll make sure to have you moved from this ce."

    Evelyn smiled up at him. "Don''t I have a say in what my home should look like?"

    "You definitely do. I''ll have some of the pictures sent to you. And if you have the time, you can take a look at them in person," he assured her.

    "I would like to do that," she said, and he smiled.

    Evelyn walked him to the door. "Drive safely," she said as she embraced him and discreetly slipped the sh drive into his pocket.

    Derek gave her onest lingering kiss before leaving the house. As he settled into his car, a mixed feeling ofpleteness and euphoria washed

    over him.

    He not only had Evelyn''s open affection, but he also had a daughter. Samantha. He had a whole family.

    He hadn''t realized how much he had wanted a family of his own until he stood in Evelyn''s living room with his arms around Evelyn and Samantha.

    He was so happy that he not only wanted to share the news with someone, but he also wanted to celebrate. Reaching for his phone, he dialed Ethan''s number.

    "Ethan, you won''t believe the news I have," Derek said excitedly when Ethan answered. "Can we meet up? I have something wonderful to share, and I want to celebrate."

    "Well, I have something wonderful to share, too. You won''t believe the number ofdies that have applied to be my wife, Ethan said with a chuckle,

    Derek chuckled, shaking his head in amusement, "I guess your crazy n is going to work after all. Where should I meet you?"

    "Let''s meet at the lounge, Ethan suggested, and once they agreed at the time, they hung up.

 Chapter 101

    101

    As Evelyn walked back into the house after Derek left, a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. She barely had time to close the door before Samantha came barreling out of her room with the pure, unfiltered joy that only children can express.

    "Mommy!" Samantha squealed, her arms outstretched as she ran straight for Evelyn, practicallyunching herself into her mother''s embrace.

    Evelyn caught her mid-stride, lifting her effortlessly and holding her close. She inhaled the familiar scent of her daughter as the warmth of the hug seeped into her bones, easing the tension she hadn''t realized she still carried.

    Evelyn smiled, her heart swelling as she looked into Samantha''s bright, eager blue eyes. "Are you that happy?" she asked,ughing softly.

    Samantha nodded enthusiastically, her curls bouncing with every motion. "I''m very happy, Mommy! I love Rek... no, I love my daddy." She corrected herself proudly, her voice filled with certainty as if the mere acknowledgment solidified her newfound bond with Derek.

    Evelyn''sughter bubbled up, but there was a softness to it- an echo of the joy that only this moment could bring. She pressed a kiss to Samantha''s forehead. "TTM

    d you''re happy, sweetheart."

    Her voice was thick with emotion, and when she nced up, she saw Maya standing a few feet away, watching them with an expression that matched Evelyn''s own-tender, joyful, and a little bit in awe. "I bet that was a surprise," Evelyn said with a knowing look, her voice gently teasing.

    Maya chuckled, her gaze warm as she watched Samantha''s happiness radiate through the room. "It was more than a surprise. Pleasantly so," she admitted, her eyes lingering on Samantha. "I always wondered why Sammy was so taken with him. It all makes sense now."

    Evelyn smiled softly, but a thread of concern tugged at her heart, winding tight as she thought about the future. The moment was perfect, but the road ahead still seemed uncertain. "We might have to move again soon," she said, her voice quieter as she looked between Maya and Samantha, her daughter still nestled in her arms.

    Samantha''s bright eyes widened in curiosity. "Are we going to live with my daddy?" Her innocent question,ced with hope, sent a pang through Evelyn''s chest.

    She hesitated, considering her words carefully. "We might... eventually," Evelyn said slowly, brushing a stray curl from Samantha''s face. "But not just yet. For now, we''re going to move to a safe ce, and when the time is right, your daddy wille live with us. Would you like that?"

    Samantha''s face lit up, her happiness practically radiating through the room. She bobbed her head eagerly. "Yes! Will he take me to school? Teach me how to ride my bike? And buy me dolls?" she asked in one breath, her excitement bubbling over.

    Evelyn and Maya both burst intoughter, the sound light and unburdened. "I''m sure he''d love to do all those things," Evelyn said, her heart swelling at the image of Derek doting on their daughter. "Now," she continued, setting Samantha gently back down on the floor, "why don''t you be a good girl and go take your nap? I know you didn''t have one today."

    Samantha pouted for a moment, then nodded with a grin, skipping off toward her bedroom. Evelyn watched her go, her smile lingering long after Samantha disappeared down the hallway. "I''ve never seen you look this happy," Maya said; her smile was wide, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

    Turning to Maya, Evelyn''s voice softened. "Thank you, Maya. For everything." The words were simple, but the gratitude behind them was immense.

    Maya smiled, her gaze warm. "I''m not sure I''ve done anything, but you''re wee," Maya said before walking away to go check on Samantha.

    Evelyn stood there for a moment longer, absorbing the stillness that followed. Her heart felt light, almost unrecognizablepared to the weight it had carried just hours ago.

    She needed to share this feeling, to voice the excitement that buzzed in her chest. Without hesitation, she walked into her bedroom, picked up her phone, and dialed Rayna''s number.

    The moment Rayna answered, her voice was full of yful suspicion. "Isn''t this like the third time we are talking today? Tell me you''re calling to tell me you''ve told Derek everything. If that''s not it, hang up right now."

    Evelyn couldn''t hold back herugh. It started as a giggle but quickly spiraled into something joyful and uncontroble. "RAYNA!" she screeched, tears of happiness pooling in her eyes. Hearing Evelyn''s carefreeugh, Rayna grinned, "You told him, didn''t you?"

    "I love you, Rayna. I love you so much," Evelyn said, her words rushing out in an emotional downpour.

    "Thank you. Thank you for making me do this. I don''t know why I didn''t tell him sooner. I wish I confided in you earlier. You gave me the best advice ever."

    Raynaughed happily on the other end. "Did I? Last I checked, you were asking yourself why you ever listened to me," Rayna said dryly.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    "I take that back. I must have been out of my mind to say something like that to my sweetest Ray. My genius.

    My drop of golden sun," Evelyn said, her voice still brimming with emotion.

    Rayna chuckled. "Alright, alright. I''ll let you bask in my brillianceter. Now I want to hear what happened.

    Tell me all of it. Do not spare any detail. Wait. Let''s switch to a video call. I need to see your face," Rayna said, and before Evelyn could agree or protest, she switched to a video call.

    Evelyn brushed away the happy tears in her eyes as she received the video call and a momentter. The moment the video connected, Evelyn found herself smiling even wider, the excitement barely contained as Rayna''s face filled Evelyn''s screen.

    "Now tell me everything," Rayna said, and Evelyn went on to tell her all that had transpired.

    She recounted everything, from her initial nerves at finding Derek at her door to the conversation with Derek, the anger, the relief, the understanding. As she spoke, tears streamed down her face, and true to form, Rayna, ever the sympathetic crier, teared up as well.

    "I can''t believe he was so understanding and didn''t get so mad like guys do in movies and novels. Derek is a ten. No. He''s a hundred over ten. I love him for you already," Rayna said as she wiped away her tears after Evelyn finished.

    Evelyn let out a softugh, shaking her head. "A hundred over ten is a ten, Ray. But yeah. He''s a ten."

    "Whatever. You almost let him go, you dummy. I can''t believe you were stupidly going to give him up. I feel like pping you through the phone." Rayna''s voice was teasing, but there was an edge of seriousness in her tone.

    "I know," Evelyn admitted with a sigh. "But we all can''t react to things in the same manner. And you should know that sometimes... when it''s your life, it''s hard to see clearly, you know?" Rayna nodded, her expression softening. "Yeah. I get that. You''re right about that," Rayna conceded.

    They shared a quiet moment before Evelyn cleared her throat. "By the way, guess who was at my office today?"

    Rayna raised a brow. "Who?"

    "Sandra."

    Rayna''s face twisted into a scowl. "What did that snake want?"

    Evelynughed, her mood lifting even higher. "You''ll never believe it. I guess I also haven''t told you that I have been fired," Evelyn said andughed as Rayna''s eyes widened in disbelief. "When? Why? Did that snake have anything to do with it? Are you sure you don''t want me toe over?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Nah. You don''t have to. I''m okay," Evelyn assured her.

    "Alright. Tell me about the visit. What did she have to say?" Rayna asked, and Evelynughed.

    "You know what? I recorded the whole conversation.

    Why don''t I send that to you so you hear it all yourself?" Evelyn suggested.

    Rayna''s eyes lit up. "Oh, please do. I''m going to need popcorn for this. I''m going to hang up now. Send it over right away. I''ll call you when I''m done listening to it," Rayna said and hung up the call. Evelyn giggled as she forwarded the video to Rayna, and a short whileter, Rayna called her back.

    "That girl must be high on something cheap. I can''t believe her nerve! Did she reallye to ask you to stay away from Derek when she knows that you know about her and Michael? Why didn''t you pull her hair or something? Gosh! Yourposure needs to be studied," Rayna said, and Evelynughed.

    "I can''t be bothered by Sandra right now. I''m just really happy that both Derek and Samantha are happy.

    I want to focus on a pleasant feeling now. I''ll think about Sandra another time," Evelyn said, and Rayna smiled.

    "Yeah. You should be happy. You deserve to be happy.

    So, you''re unemployed now. Want me to give you a job at my bakery?" Rayna offered, and Evelynughed out loud.

    "Nah. I believe it''s time to go back to my Dad''spany. Sandra is going to wish she didn''t mess with me."

    "Amen to that, bitch!" Rayna said happily, and Evelynughed.

    "I owe you a drink, Ray..."

    "A drink? You owe me more than a drink, but we can start with that," Rayna said, and Evelynughed.

    "Now that I''m jobless, I have time to spare. So, let me know when you are ready to grab a drink," Evelyn said, and Rayna giggled happily.

    "I can feel it, Evie. The Evelyn I know is finallying back," Rayna said happily, and after chatting for a bit, they hung up.

    Feeling lighter than she had in years, Evelyn let out a deep sigh as she flopped onto her bed.

    For the first time in forever, the crushing weight on her shoulders was gone. She realized now that she had been shouldering burdens that she never really had to shoulder alone, and all she had needed to do was open up.

 Chapter 102

    102

    The moment Derek stepped into his suite, an uncontainable surge of joy overtook him. He flicked his finger in the air, a grin spreading across his face as he moved to the rhythm of the victory beating inside him.

    Without thinking, he glided across the floor in a smooth moonwalk, followed by a jubnt Michael Jackson spin,ughing out loud. Hisughter echoed in the spacious room, filling every corner with his euphoria. He was on top of the world.

    Humming to himself, Derek began stripping off his clothes with the same excitement, eager to freshen up and head out. His shirt was the first to go, followed quickly by his trousers- until something small tumbled out of his pocket and hit the floor with a faint clink.

    Derek paused, his brow furrowing in confusion. He stooped to retrieve the object, realizing it was a sh drive. His mind raced-how had it gotten there? Did someone slip it into his pocket? Who? When? A flood of curiosity washed over him. Shrugging, he walked over to his nightstand where hisptop sat and plugged the drive in, impatient to uncover its contents.

    Derek''s heart skipped a beat as the files loaded on his screen. His breath caught in his throat, and a slow smile crept across his face, growing wider and wider until his cheeks ached from the sheer joy of it. Pictures filled the screen-pictures of Samantha, his daughter. There she was, captured in precious moments frozen in time from birth to infanthood.

    Everyugh, every tiny hand reaching out, every peaceful nap-it was all there. It was a treasure trove of memories he''d never seen yet missed.

    He lowered himself onto the edge of his bed, all thoughts of meeting Ethan slipping away as he scrolled through the images. Each picture struck a chord deep within him. There she was, his little girl, growing up in front of his eyes, frame by frame. His fingers shook as they hovered over the keyboard, unable to tear himself away from the slideshow of her life.

    His heart ached, both in sadness for the time he''d missed and in gratitude for the chance to see these moments now. His vision blurred as tears welled in his eyes, but a soft chuckle escaped him as one particrly goofy picture of baby Samantha popped up. Before he knew it, he was crying,ughing, and smiling all at once, emotions swirling through him like a storm he couldn''t control.

    He nced at the time but didn''t care about how much of it had passed. There was no rush. With newfound determination, Derek connected his phone to hisptop, transferring the pictures and videos. He needed them close, to carry with him wherever he went, so he could look at them whenever the longing hit. He would make up for the time he lost. He promised himself that.

    His phone suddenly rang, pulling him out of the trance he''d been in. Ethan''s name shed on the screen. Realizing how long he had been caught up in the emotional whirlwind, he answered the call hastily.

    "Where are you, man?" Ethan''s voice asked, a yful impatience coloring his tone.

    Derek ran a hand through his hair, already moving off the bed. "Sorry, I''ll be there in a bit," he said, ncing at his reflection in the mirror. His eyes were still wet, but he didn''t care. This was joy, not sorrow. He moved quickly, setting his phone aside as he pulled on fresh clothes. Pocketing his phone and grabbing his wallet and car keys, Derek was halfway to the door before he froze. Hisptop. The sh drive. He couldn''t leave it out, not this- this was too precious, too important.

    He hurried back to the bed, pulling the sh drive from theptop. With a quick nce around the room, he walked over to his closet, sifting through the drawer until he found an old pair of socks. Carefully, he tucked the drive inside the sock and pushed it deep into the drawer. It wasn''t much of a hiding spot, but for now, it would do.

    Satistied, he rushed out, whistling as he made his way to the car. The drive to the lounge was smooth, and the city lights reflected his mood, bright and alive.

    When he arrived, he spotted Ethan already seated at their usual table and waved him over. Derek grinned as he approached, signaling for the waiter. "Bring us the most expensive wine you''ve got," Derek said, his voice brimming with excitement.

    Ethan raised an eyebrow. "What''s this about? Don''t tell me the mysterydy finally said yes," he teased, though a knowing smile tugged at his lips.

    Derek let out augh, the kind that bubbles up from a ce of pure joy. "It''s more than that, man. She did more than just agree. I feel like my heart''s about to burst from joy!" His voice shook slightly, his eyes bright with unshed tears.

    Ethan''s curiosity piqued, and he leaned forward.

    "What did she do? Come on, tell me."

    Derek hesitated, words failing him. Instead, he pulled out his phone and unlocked it, turning the screen toward Ethan. There, in the photo gallery, was Samantha.

    Ethan stared at the picture for a moment before looking back at Derek, his eyes wide. "Is this... what I think it is?"

    Derek nodded, his voice barely a whisper. "Her name is Samantha. She is my daughter."

    "Get out of here!" Ethan said, unable to believe it.

    Derekughed, "I know, it''s unreal. I still can''t wrap my head around it."

    "You''re not kidding? This really is your daughter? The mysterydy has a daughter for you?" Ethan asked again.

    Derek nodded again, tears spilling down his cheeks as he wiped them away with a shakyugh. "Yes. Evelyn has my daughter. I found out today."

    Ethan''s face lit up as he pped Derek on the back. "I can''t believe it! You have a daughter? That''s incredible, man!"

    "If I didn''t already know Sam before Evelyn introduced her to me, it would have been weirder. But I already knew and loved the kid before knowing she was rted to Evelyn," Derek said, his voice choked with emotion.

    Ethan leaned back in his chair, shaking his head in amazement. "You''ve been spending time with her and didn''t even know she was yours?" Ethan asked, and Derek went on to recount all his encounters with Samantha in the past.

    Ethan listened, captivated by the tale, and when Derek was done, he shook his head in amazement, "Wow! You both must have a pretty special bond," Ethan said, and Derek nodded.

    "Hearing her call me daddy did something to me, man. I can''t exin it. It''s the best feeling in the world.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Knowing I have a daughter and that her mother is the woman I''m so crazy about... it''s like a dreame true. I feel like I could die happy now," Derek said, and Ethan chuckled.

    "Let''s not get ahead of ourselves. You''ve got a lot of living to do, my friend. Who''s going to take care of them if you ''die happy''?"

    Derekughed, shaking his head. "I meant it figuratively, you bastard," Derek said, making Ethan chuckle.

    The waiter returned with their wine, pouring the rich, red liquid into their sses. They waited until he had served them and left before continuing.

    "So, how did you know she''s your daughter? Did Evelyn tell you? Why didn''t she tell you about it this whole time?" Ethan asked curiously as he sipped from his wine. Derek told him all that had transpired that day and everything Evelyn had told him.

    "Wow!" Ethan said when Derek was done, "It must not have been easy for her to open up to you. She sounds like a very reserved person."

    Derek nodded, "She said her friend, Rayna, encouraged her to tell me everything," Derek said and watched as Ethan''s smile transformed into a scowl at the mention of Rayna.

    "Can you forgive her for my sake? I feel like I owe her one after what she did for me," Derek pleaded.

    "Let''s focus on celebrating your daughter and resurrected love life," Ethan said, raising his ss in a toast.

    "To you, Derek""" Ethan said, his voice softening. "To finding love and to finding your daughter."

    Derek clinked his ss against Ethan''s, smiling from ear to ear. "Cheers."

 Chapter 103

    103

    Derek walked into the hotel with a spring in his step, the high from the day''s events still coursing through him. He pushed through the doors of the lounge, scanning the room before spotting Michael seated at the bar, swirling a ss of dark liquor in his hand.

    Michael looked up, and his eyes narrowed when he saw that Derek seemed to be in an excellent mood. He couldn''t help but wonder what could have happened to put him in such a good mood, considering what had happened with Sandra and his mother.

    "What''s up, Mike?" Derek asked as he slid into the seat next to Michael.

    "I should be asking you. You look so excited," Michael noted, taking a slow sip from his ss. The suspicion in his voice was hard to miss.

    Derek chuckled, "What can I say? Life''s good today," he replied, waving the bartender over with a carefree hand. "The usual, please."

    Derek was too happy to be upset or irritated by Michael''s schemes. He could go back to being wary tomorrow, but for today, he just wanted to bask in his euphoria.

    Michael cocked his head to the side, scrutinizing his friend. "Really?"

    "Yeah. And I''m happy to see you," Derek said easily, and Michael chuckled.

    Michael''s frown deepened, the cautious expression never leaving his face. "Well, I''m d you''re happy. I thought you''d be upset considering everything that''s been going on," he said, and Derek raised a brow. "Why should I be upset?" He asked as the bartender set down his ss in front of him.

    Michael raised a brow, still suspicious. "Well, I''d have thought Evelyn losing her job because of you might bother you. I know you care about her. And you know, the whole... situation with my mom and Sandra." Derekughed lightly, leaning back in his chair, "Oh, that. Well, I guess it was bound to happen. I try not to stress over things that I can''t control. Everything happens for a reason, after all," Derek said dismissively as he took a long, satisfying sip of his Negroni.

    Michael nodded in agreement, d that Derek wasn''t making a big deal out of it. "So, did Evelyn tell you anything else?" Michael asked, and Derek raised a brow.

    "Anything? Like what?" Derek''s voice was casual, but his eyes gleamed with amusement as he took another sip.

    Michael hesitated for a moment before lowering his voice. "Well, she told Sandra that she was going to make sure things don''t work out between you two and that she would go as far as telling you that Sandra and I are lovers," Michael said, watching Derek carefully for a reaction.

    He wanted to know if Evelyn had recorded the conversation with Sandra or said anything to Derek yet.

    Derek couldn''t help but chuckle. "The Evelyn I know isn''t the type to make idle threats or show her cards too soon. She''s smarter than that," Derek said, and Michael stiffened, not expecting Derek''s nonchnt response.

    Michael shifted ufortably, his grip tightening around his ss. "The Evelyn you know?" He asked, not liking the sound of that.

    "Yes. Aside from whatever personal rtionship existed between the both of you, she''s a very smart and calcteddy. I''m just saying it as it is. By the way, what was that you mentioned earlier on the phone about Evelyn saying she wants me?" Derek asked, trying not to grin as he said that.

    "She told Sandra that she wants you and she was going to get you no matter what. She even told Sandra that she chose toe to interview you so she could seduce you and that neither Sandra nor I could stop her," Michael said, and Derek chuckled.

    "That also doesn''t sound like something Evelyn would say," Derek said, and Michael''s frown deepened. He was irritated now.

    "What do you mean by that? Do you think I''m making this up?" He asked in confusion.

    Derek let out a softugh, enjoying the way Michael''s unease grew with every word. "I don''t know. Are you?" Derek leaned back, crossing his arms over his chest, his expression unreadable. "I''m not making this up. Evelyn told Sandra..."

    "I''m just saying it doesn''t sound like Evelyn. Maybe Sandra''s twisting the truth a little. Were you there? Did you hear any of this yourself? Or is it mere hearsay from Sandra?" Derek asked, and Michael frowned.

    "Why are you asking me that?" He asked, unable to understand why Derek sounded like he was making fun of him.

    "You haven''t answered my question," Derek insisted.

    Michael''s lips pressed into a thin line. "No, but..."

    "Then it''s all secondhand, isn''t it?" Derek interrupted,

    "Did you ever wonder why I asked Evelyn to work with me for a month before granting her the interview?

    Didn''t you think it was an unconventional arrangement?" Derek asked since he knew that Michael was bound to hear from his Mom sooner orter that he was in love with Evelyn. Michael blinked, caught off guard. "What are you talking about?

    "I wanted her close, and not just for business reasons. I asked her to do that because I''m really into her. I fell in love with her at first sight. That was the same reason I shared personal stuff with her and took her on that trip. I wanted to get to know her. I wanted her close enough so I could seduce her."

    Michael''s expression twisted into a scowl. "You''re in love with her? How can you say that to me after everything she did to me?"

    "That was before I found out about your history with her. I had to let go of her because you''re like my little brother, and I care about you," Derek said, pping Michael''s back fondly, "Do you see now why I don''t believe the story you just imed you heard from Sandra? Evelyn didn''te to seduce me. If she wanted to, she would have gotten me without trying, and she knows it," Derek said, wanting to nt a seed of doubt in Michael''s heart toward Sandra.

    "Maybe she was taking her time. Maybe she wants you now because..."

    Derek shook his head, grinning. "I''m over her. I no longer care about her. It is Sandra I''m interested in now."

    Michael''s eyes lit up at the sound of Sandra''s name, his suspicion easing. "Sandra, huh? Well, that''s more like it. I knew you had good taste. Well, I just thought I should warn you."

    "So, you should ask Sandra to forget about her sister and focus on me now," Derek teased, watching as Michael''s tension melted away.

    Michaelughed, clearly relieved, "I trust you. I know you won''t have anything to do with Evelyn. We are family, after all, and what affects one affects all," Michael said, and Derek nodded.

    "Yeah. What affects one affects all," he said, chuckling as he took a sip, savoring the bittersweet taste, knowing the seed of doubt he''d just nted in Michael''s mind would fester over time.

    The conversation shifted easily to lighter topics - sports, politics, and work. For a moment, everything felt normal. But Derek knew better than to trust the peace. There was always something brewing beneath the surface with Michael, but tonight, Derek wasn''t going to worry about it.

    After a while, Derek yawned, stretching his arms. "I''m exhausted, man. I''m going to head up."

    Michael nodded, standing to leave as well. "Yeah, I''ll see you tomorrow."

    As Michael made his way out of the Hotel, Michael bumped into a young woman entering the hotel. Both of their phones tumbled to the ground in the confusion.

    She immediately knelt, grabbed a phone, and handed the other to Michael.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    "I''m so sorry! I wasn''t paying attention," she said breathlessly, offering a quick smile.

    "No worries""" Michael muttered, pocketing the phone without a second nce. He nodded at the woman before turning to head out,pletely unaware that the phone in his pocket wasn''t his.

    As Michael disappeared into the night, the woman hurried away with a glint of determination in her eyes, and Michael''s phone was tucked safely in her hand.

    She had what she needed. Now, it was just a matter of time.

    She was determined to clone his SIM card before he realized he had the wrong phone.

 Chapter 104

    As Michael drove back home, he thought about what Derek had said about trying to seduce Evelyn, and he snorted. Over his dead body, he thought. There was no way he was ever going to let anything happen between Derek and Evelyn. The very idea made his blood boil.

    Thinking about it again, he began to wonder if Sandra had lied to him earlier. If Evelyn truly wanted Derek, why hadn''t she made a move? She knew Derek had feelings for her, so what was stopping her? The more he thought about it, the more unsettled he became.

    Michael''s thoughts drifted back to the first few times he had run into Evelyn at thepany and the way she had acted. It all made sense now that Evelyn had acted that way because she knew Derek was interested in her. Was she ying some sort of game, testing their boundaries?

    He shook his head to rid himself of those thoughts.

    None of it mattered anymore. Evelyn had lost her job at Empowered, and Derek had no reason to meet with her again. Michael allowed himself a small, satisfied smile at the thought. Derek had said it himself - there was no longer any connection between them. As far as Michael was concerned, that chapter was closed.

    Yet, the smile faded as quickly as it came when Sandra came to mind. Michael''s expression darkened as his thoughts shifted to her. Something about Sandra wasn''t sitting right with him. He couldn''t shake the nagging feeling that she was up to something, plotting behind his back. Her decision to visit Evelyn at her office - careless, reckless-kept gnawing at him. What was she thinking? Michael''s jaw clenched. Talking to her was not enough.

    He needed to put Sandra in check. It was clear that she needed to be kept on a much tighter leash. Perhaps it was time to find some leverage-something to hold over her that would guarantee her loyalty and obedience. He couldn''t afford any surprises.

    With that thought in mind, Michael reached for his phone, ready to call Sandra and arrange a meeting the next day. But when he picked up the device, something felt off. He nced at the screen, and his brow furrowed in confusion. The wallpaper was different. His phone didn''t have a floral background.

    What the hell?

    His brows pulled together when he pressed his thumb against the fingerprint sensor, but the phone refused to unlock. Panic bubbled up inside him as he tried again, only to be met with the same result. Swearing under his breath, Michael pulled over to the side of the road, his fingers flying over the keypad as he entered his password. The screen remained stubbornly locked. Frustration mounted as he looked closer at the phone.

    It was slightly different from his, just enough that he realized with dawning horror that this wasn''t his phone at all. It was someone else''s.

    He cursed loudly, his pulse racing as he recalled the brief encounter with the woman he''d bumped into earlier. Could it be? Had they somehow switched phones? He mentally retraced his steps to the hotel, remembering how she had been going in as he wasing out. There was no doubt about it - they had swapped phones.

    Without wasting another second, Michael turned the car around and headed back toward the hotel. He prayed that the woman was a guest there and that she hadn''t gone far. If he could just get in touch with her using Derek''s phone, maybe she''d answer if he called his own phone and brought it back to him. He needed to fix the error at once.

    The tension in his chest eased slightly as he pulled up to the hotel. He hurried inside, heading straight for Derek''s suite. There was no time to lose. He rang the bell, impatience thrumming through his veins. Inside the suite, Derek had just stepped out of the shower with a towel wrapped loosely around his waist as he prepared to settle down for the night. He had a phone call to make- one he''d been looking forward to all evening. Evelyn. He smiled to himself as he reached for his phone, but the sound of the doorbell pulled him from his thoughts.

    Derek paused. Who could that be? His eyes narrowed as he approached the door, checking the peephole. A smirk tugged at his lips when he saw Michael standing outside.

    After contacting the hackers, he had told them he wanted the job done as soon as possible and had promised to double their fee if they were able to get it done before the end of the week. When they told him they needed a way to get

    Michael''s phone so that they could clone his SIM card, Derek had told them he was meeting with Michaelter that evening, and they could wait around at the lounge and find a way to get the phone from Michael after their meeting.

    The Hackers had called Derek earlier to inform him that they had gotten Michael''s phone, so he could guess why Michael was standing outside his door.

    Instead of answering the door, Derek returned to his bathroom with his phone. He dialed the number of the Hacker to find out how far they had gone. "How''s it going?" Derek asked, his voice low.

    "We''re almost done," the hacker replied. "Just a few more minutes."

    "Good. He''s here now. Make sure you finish up quickly and return the phone to him. Don''t make it look suspicious."

    After ending the call, Derek draped a towel over his shoulders and opened the door, greeting Michael with a wide, disarming smile. "Mike? What brings you back here? I thought you left already." Derek asked as he stepped aside to let Michael in.

    Michael''s face was set in a scowl as he stepped into the suite. "I bumped into some woman earlier, and I didn''t realize it at the time, but we swapped phones." He held up the unfamiliar device in his hand. "I was hoping I could use your phone to call her."

    Before Derek could respond, the phone in Michael''s hand began to ring. Both men nced down at the screen. The name ''Baby'' shed across it, and Michael''s scowl deepened as he quickly answered the call.

    Derek watched with barely concealed amusement as Michael spoke tersely into the phone. When Michael

    hung up, he turned to Derek with a sheepish expression. "That was her fianc¨¦. He wants me to meet him in the parking lot to exchange the phones."

    Derek nodded. "That''s a relief. Do you want me toe with you?" Derek offered, and Michael shook his head.

    "Nah. I''ve got it. I''ll be on my way now. Thanks anyway," Michael said, and Derek gave him a nod as he saw him off to the door.

    After shutting the door behind Michael, Derek chuckled quietly. The whole situation couldn''t have yed out better if he had nned it himself. The phone was cloned, and Michael was none the wiser. Now, Derek had ess to all of Michael''s calls and texts, a crucial step in their n. He wished he had thought of hacking Michael''s phone earlier.

    He sank onto the bed, his thoughts shifting to Evelyn.

    Grinning to himself, he dialed her number, eager to hear her voice.

    "Hey," she answered after the second ring, her tone warm.

    "Hello, darling," Derek responded, his grin widening at the sound of her giggle. He could practically hear the smile in her voice.

    "What have you been up to?" Evelyn asked since he had said he had a lot to do when he left.

    Derek leaned back against the headboard, rxing as he recounted his day. "I met with the hackers..."

    "I thought you said you spoke with them beforeing over," Evelyn cut in.

    "Yeah. That was over the phone. After seeing Samantha, I decided to see them in person to let them know how important it was. And after that, I met with Ethan to celebrate, and then I had a drink with Michael," Derek said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Sounds like you''ve been quite busy," Evelyn remarked a hint of amusement in her voice.

    Derek chuckled. "Yeah, but it was worth it. They''ve cloned Michael''s SIM. We can now monitor his calls and texts."

    Evelyn''s gasp of surprise was audible. "Already? That''s incredible."

    "Yep. We''re one step closer. Don''t worry, Eve. We''re going to take him down."

    For a moment, Evelyn was silent, processing the magnitude of what Derek had just told her. Relief washed over her. "Thank you, Derek. I don''t know how to repay you."Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    "You don''t have to repay me""" Derek said softly. "We''re in this together."

    "So, where is my daughter?" He asked, and Evelynughed at his proud tone.

    "She''s in the living room," Evelyn said, and Derek raised a brow.

    "When is her bedtime... hold on. I just remembered something. I saw the sh drive. Are you a magician?

    When did youpile all of that and put it in my pocket?" He asked, and Evelynughed.

    "Ipiled it while you were busy with Samantha, and I put it in your pocket when you were leaving," she exined.

    "I''m not done going through it yet, but I love it and am grateful for it. Thank you, Eve. Thank you so much," Derek said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "You''re wee."

    "So, when is Samantha''s bedtime? I want to tell her bedtime stories. We can do that over the phone for the time being, but after you move to a more secure location, I''lle over to do that every night and tuck her in. I have a lot of catching up to do," Derek promised, and Evelyn''s smile widened to the point that her jaws ached.

    "She''d love that," Evelyn said, imagining how happy Samantha would be to hear that.

    "I''d love that even more," Derek said. After that, Evelyn took the phone to Samantha, and they talked. Derek spoke with Samantha for a while until it was time for her to go to bed, and then he made up a bedtime story for her.

    By the time Samantha finally dozed off, Derek was halfway asleep himself, and Evelynughed softly as she bid him goodnight and ended the call.

    As Evelyny in bed, ready to go to sleep, she let out a relieved sigh, grateful for how everything had yed out and hopeful thate tomorrow she would be able to clear the air with her parents.

 Chapter 105

    105

    As Evelyn prepared breakfast for Samantha the following day, her thoughts were scattered. A mix of excitement and anxiety clouded her mind. Today was the day. Today, she would finally face her parents and tell them everything.

    After dropping Samantha off at school, Evelyn returned home and took a deep breath as she surveyed the living room. It would be her father''s first visit to her apartment, and everything had to be perfect. Hosting her parents for dinner was one thing; telling them about Samantha, Sandra, and Derek was another. Her stomach churned at the thought, but she forced herself to focus.

    She started by wiping down the kitchen counters and straightening the already immacte furniture. Then, the doorbell rang, and Evelyn hurried to answer it, thinking it was Maya, who had gone out to help her get the items she needed to make dinner.

    Instead of Maya, Rayna stood at the door with a wide smile and a bag of pastries. "Thought you could use some extra hands and dessert," Rayna said, her tone lighthearted but with an underlying concern. She knew how much this evening meant to Evelyn.

    Evelyn exhaled in relief. "Thank you. You''re such an Angel."

    Rayna set the bags on the counter and unpacked them into the refrigerator. "Everything will be fine, Evie.

    You''ve been stressing over this for years, but your parents will understand. Despite all that has happened, your Dad loves you, and I''m sure he will be happy to hear everything from you finally." Evelyn''s hands trembled slightly as she joined Rayna in unpacking, "I don''t know, Ray. My dad... he''s traditional, and he''s always expected so much from me. I''m scared of how he''ll react to Samantha. To the fact that I had a child out of wedlock and kept it from him. And you know my stepmom... although she''s wonderful and has been good to me, she''s still Sandra''s mother. What if she sides with her when I tell them about the affair?"

    Rayna came up beside her, cing a gentle hand on her arm. "You''re overthinking and overworrying.

    You''re not responsible for what Sandra did. ire might be upset, but she''s always cared about you. Trust me, she won''t take Sandra''s side. You''re her daughter, too. And as for your dad, well... I''m sure your Dad will understand that you did what you had to do. Just be honest. You''ve raised a wonderful daughter. He''ll see that."

    Evelyn offered a shaky smile, her heart still pounding in her chest. "I hope you''re right."

    Soon, Maya returned with the groceries, and as the hours passed, both Rayna and Maya worked side by side with her to help her prepare avish meal.

    Once it was time to get Samantha from school, Maya left to pick her up while Evelyn and Rayna set the table with the best dinnerware. Evelyn fussed over the cement of the flowers, moving them from one spot to another until Rayna finallyughed and took the vase out of her handsOriginal content from N?velDrama.Org.

    "Rx," Rayna said, cing the flowers in the center of the table. "It''s going to be fine."

    Evelyn wiped her palms on her apron. "I just... I want everything to be perfect."

    Rayna smiled. "It already is."

    After some time, Rayna left. Evelyn felt her heart lighten slightly when Samantha ran into the house a short whileter with an excited expression on her face.

    Samantha sniffed the air, which was filled with the scent of roast chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and saut¨¦ed vegetables.

    "Are we having a party, Mommy?" Samantha asked, her bright eyes scanning the decorated table and the kitchen bustling with food.

    Evelyn knelt to her daughter''s height, smoothing a hand over Samantha''s soft curls. "Not a party, darling.

    But your grandfather ising to visit tonight, and I want you to be on your best behavior, okay?"

    Samantha''s eyes widened with excitement.

    "Grandfather? Grandma ire''s husband?" She asked, and Evelyn smiled as she nodded.

    "Yes, baby. My father. You saw your Daddy yesterday, and now you get to see your Mommy''s Daddy. He''s very important to me, so I want you to be a good girl as always when he arrives," Evelyn said, her own nerves bubbling up again.

    Samantha beamed and gave her mother a tight hug. "I will, Mommy. I promise."

    As the time for dinner approached, Evelyn received a call from Derek. The sound of his voice immediately helped ease some of her tension. "Hello, love! I''m sorry I haven''t called all day. I''ve been pretty busy. How have you been? How''s Sam? And how''s everything going?" he asked. Evelyn nced around the room, still scanning for any imperfections. "Sam is fine. I''ve been busy, but I think we''re almost ready."

    "Do you need anything on my way over? Wine?

    Dessert?" Derek''s tone was casual, but she could hear the concern hidden beneath his words.

    "No, everything is set. I think..." Evelyn paused.

    "Actually, maybe wine. Just in case."

    Derek chuckled. "I''ll bring something special. I''ll see you soon."

    Evelyn hung up the phone, feeling a small sense offort, knowing Derek would be there soon. He was always so calm and steady. Just having him near would help her as she prepared for the inevitable conversation with her parents.

    True to his word, Derek arrived a little while before her parents. He walked in with a bottle of wine in one hand and a box of desserts in the other. Evelyn, who had just finished freshening up, greeted him at the door, her nerves still evident, but she smiled when she saw him.

    "You brought dessert?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

    "You can never have too much""" Derek replied, giving her a reassuring smile. He set the wine and dessert down on the dining table and pulled her into a gentle embrace. "You''re doing great. Everything smells and looks perfect."

    Evelyn let out a small, shaky breath as she rested her head against his chest. "I''m scared, Derek. What if my dad... what if he''s furious?"

    Derek gently lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. "He might be upset at first, but I''m sure he''lle around. And don''t worry, I''m here for you. We''ll face this together."

    Before Evelyn could respond, Samantha came rushing into the room, her face lighting up when she saw Derek. "Daddy!" she eximed, running toward him.

    Derek knelt down to greet her with a warm hug. "Hey there, baby. How was school?"

    "Exciting! I have so much to tell you. Are you staying for dinner? Will you meet my grandpa?"

    Derek nced up at Evelyn with a knowing smile. "Of course, I am staying. I don''t want to miss any of this deliciousness I smell. But first, why don''t we see what you learned today before your grandparents arrive?"

    Samantha grinned and grabbed his hand, leading him toward her bedroom. Evelyn watched them go, her heart swelling at the sight. Derek was wonderful with Samantha, and she was grateful for that. Evelyn''s stomach tightened with anticipation as the clock ticked closer to dinner time. She had just finished checking on the roast in the oven when the doorbell rang. Her heart leaped into her throat. This was it.

    She hurried to the door, smoothing her hands over her dress before opening it. Her father, looking a little confused, stood there, and her stepmother, who wore a pleasant smile. "Evelyn?" Eric said, furrowing his brow as he looked from his daughter to his wife. "What''s going on?

    ire, didn''t you say we were going out for dinner."

    ire gave Evelyn a knowing nce before turning to Eric. "Yes, darling. Evelyn wanted us toe here for dinner tonight."

    Knowing how difficult her husband could be, she had made him think they were going on a date and were stopping by the way to say hello to a friend.

    Eric''s eyes narrowed, his expression darkening as he looked at his wife. "ire, what is this?"

    Evelyn stepped forward, her hands sped tightly in front of her. "I''m sorry for the surprise, Dad. But I asked Mom to bring you here because... I need to talk to you both about everything."

    Before either Eric or ire could respond, a small voice piped up from the hallway. "Mommy, is Grandpa here?"

    Evelyn''s breath hitched, and she turned to see Samantha standing at the edge of the hallway, her eyes wide with excitement. Samantha ran up to her mother and grabbed her hand.

    Eric''s expression changed in an instant. His eyes widened as he took in the sight of the little girl standing next to Evelyn, looking like a mirror image of his daughter at that age except for the blue eyes. Grandpa?

    "Is this him, Mommy? Is this my grandfather?" She asked, then her gaze shifted to ire, and she embraced ire, who was smiling down at her. "Grandma! I''ve missed you!"

    Evelyn swallowed hard, her heart pounding in her chest as she looked from her father to Samantha.

    "Dad, this is Samantha. Your granddaughter."

    For a moment, there was only stunned silence.

 Chapter 106

    Eric''s face seemed to pale, his eyes darting from Evelyn to Samantha in stunned disbelief. He opened his mouth as if to speak, but no words came. The revtion seemed to shrink his normallymanding presence.

    ire ced a gentlend on Eric''s arm, her voice soft and encouraging. "Eric, we should go inside and sit down."

    Bat Eric remained frozen, his gaze fixed on Samantha, who was still holding tightly to her grandmother''s hand, her innocent eyes brimming with curiosity and excitement.

    Following Evelyn''s introduction, Samantha''s face lit up with a radiant smile. She let go of ire and, without hesitation, stepped forward, her tiny arms outstretched toward Eric. "Hi, Grandpa! I''m Samantha She said, her voice sweet and unburdened by the tension around them.

    For a heartbeat, Erie remained motionless; his brows furrowed deeply as if trying to process everything

    Although he was still confused and a bit upset, he didn''t want the kid to know about it, so his eyes softened slowly. His posture, once unyielding, rxed slightly as he took a tentative step closer to Samantha. He leaned down, reaching out his hand toward Samantha.

    "Hello, Samantha. It''s nice to meet you," he said, his voice hoarse but gentle. He nced up an Evelyn, his eyes questioning full of confusion and unspoken words, "I hope you have a good exnation for this Seeing the bewilderment and hurt in her father''s expression, Evelyn''s heart ached. "I do. Dad. And I''m sorry, I should''ve told you sooner," she said, her voice barely above a whisper as she stepped away from the door so they coulde in.

    Eric straightened, his face hardening as he walked into the house. While Evelyn shut the door behind them, he turned to ire again. "You knew. didn''t you?" His tone was low, a mix of usation and disbelief.

    ire sighed, her calm exterior faltering slightly under his intense gaze. "Evelyn wanted to tell you herself, but she needed time to gather the courage. This dinner was her idea

    Eric was torn between anger and sorrow as he struggled to find his footing in the whirlwind of emotions. His gazended back on Evelyn

    As they all walked into the living room, Eric and ire faltered in their steps when they saw Derek standing there, and ire looked from Derek to Evelyn

    They both recognized Derek from their anniversary party since Michael had introduced him to them. They knew Evelyn was interviewing him, and not only had they seen the way he took Evelyn away after her brush with Sandra, but they also knew that Sandra was in a rtionship with him. Seeing Derek there at such an important moment, ire looked between Derek and Samantha and began to wonder if it was only a coincidence that Samantha had blue eyes like Derek and if she was Imagining things by thinking that Samantha looked like Derek a little now,

    Maya came out to greet Evelyn''s parents, Evelyn signaled her to take Samantha to the bedroom for some time since she didn''t want Samantha to hear what was about to be discussed.

    After Maya and Samantha left, Evelyn''s father looked at Derek, "What is going on here?" Eric asked harshly, trying to keep his voice down because of the kid in the house.

    Before Evelyn could speak, Derek stepped forward and stood beside her. "Hello, Mr. Quinn, Mrs Quinn, he greeted with a polite nod. It''s nice to meet you both again. I''m Derek Stone, Evelyn''s fianc¨¦, and Samantha''s father," he said, cing his arm around Evelyn''s shoulder.

    Evelyn looked up at him, taken aback by his self-introduction, while her parents exchanged surprised and confused nces

    "What do you mean you''re her fiance! We are aware that you''re seeing Sandra," Eric said harshly as he turned from him to Evelyn with a look of disbelief, "did you jump from Michael to his cousin! Is that how I brought you up? To be shameless and irresponsible?"

    "Dad.."

    Derek cut in before Evelyn could speak. "Please refrain from using that tone and such words on my fianc¨¦e. I decided to be present at this meeting because I did not appreciate the way you spoke to my fianc¨¦e thest time in public. I wanted to make sure you do not repeat it today. If you want an exnation, you''re going to get it, but do not talk to either of us that way, Derek said firmly, surprising everyone in the room once again.

    Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat at his words, and she looked up at him, shaking her head and pleading with her eyes for him not toplicate things. but Derek refused to meet her gaze as he held her father''s gaze, refusing to be stared down.

    Evelyn looked at ire helplessly, but ire was also looking at her with a confused frown because she couldn''t understand what was going on Evelyn had not told her anything about being in a rtionship or having a nce. Last she checked, Evelyn had said Samantha''s father was not in the picture, and she was not ready to introduce a father figure to Samantha. So what was going on! Why was Sandra''s love interest suddenly introducing himself as Evelyn''s fianc¨¦ and Samantha''s father''

    After both men had stared at each other for a while, Eric finally looked away from Derek and turned to Evelyn again. "Did you invite him over to be rude to me?"

    "Enc. you need to calm down...."

    "I should be calm? How can you ask me to be calm when Evelyn here invited us to her apartment to be insulted by her boyfriend?" Eric cut in, facing ire, "It''s not enough that she had a child out of wedlock; it had to be with Michael''s cousin. Have you no iota of decency? Did you cancel your wedding with Michael just to be a Babymama?" Eric asked as he turned to look at Evelyn with disapproval once again. "I always wondered why Evelyn would rather leave than talk to you and tell you all that happened. Now I can understand why your daughter couldn''t say a word to you all these years. With your poor..

    "Derek, stop. Please. Let me handle this," Evelyn said quietly, not wanting her carefully nned dinner to be reduced to such a meaningless exchange of words.

    "Evelyn, please exin what is going on," ire said softly.

    "What''s there to exin

    "Dad, can you just keep quiet and listen?" Evelyn snapped at her father, fed up with his criticism. "For once, can you just listen and stop being so critical of everything I do!" Evelyn asked angrily, ring at her father.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Her father blinked, taken aback by her outburst. And her stepmother looked at her, equally shocked.

    Derek on the other hand, smiled as he watched her, d that she was finally talking instead of just letting her father speak to her that

    way.

    "You know what! I''m done with this! It was one thing for you to give me that ultimatum six years ago. I let that happen because I wanted to leave. At the anniversary party, you threw me out in front of everyone without asking to know what happened, but I took that. That was your house and you were free to treat me that way there. But this is my ground and I''ll be damned if I let you do this to me under my roof. I spent all day trying to organize my home and put things in order because invited you into my home to exin things to you, yet all you''ve done since you stepped in is condemn and criticize me for things you know nothing about. You know NOTHING about me or my life, Dad! Now, it''s as Derek has said. If you want an exnation and you know you''re going to listen, then you can sit down, and I''ll tell you what you need to know. But if you won''t listen and you''re just going to keep talking to me this way in MY home, then you should leave, and let''s cut ties permanently right now. Because I do not want anything to do with a father who doesn''t listen to me and can''t even give me the benefit of the doubt! If you won''t listen, leave!" Evelyn continued angrily.

 Chapter 107

    The room fell into a heavy silence as Evelyn''s words hung in the air between them. Eric stared at her, his expression hard to read somewhere between shock, hurt, and anger.

    ire looked between her husband and stepdaughter, her face pale, eyes wide with concern. "Eric now''s the time to listen. Evelyn is right. We owe her that much"

    er shoulder, silently supporting her as she confronted her father.

    Derek stood still beside Evelyn, his arm still gently resting on her

    For a moment, no one spoke. The tension in the room was tangible. It was so thick that a knife could cut through it. Evelyn''s heart pounded in her chest, her breathing in short, sharp bursts as she waited for her father''s response

    She had never spoken to him like that before, and part of her was terrified of what he might say or do. But another part of her felt a sense of liberation¡ªa relief that she''d finally voiced her feelings after years of pent-up frustration

    Eric finally took a deep breath, the sound harsh in the quiet room. His face had lost some of its earlier fury, reced with something moreplicated, almost unreadable. He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again as if struggling to find the right words.

    He loved his daughter, and he couldn''t help it that he felt disappointed by her choices so far. "Evelyn" he began, his voice low and strained as his

    wal authoritative exterior crumbled.

    "I have never intended to hurt you. I just.." He paused, running a hand over his face in frustration. "I feel sad. I feel your mother would be disappointed in nie and think I did a poor job raising you. I promised her I would take care of you and make sure you get only the best of everything, and seeing you live this way, it''s like I''ve done the opposite so far....."

    "How can you say that? What do you know about me to be disappointed! What do you think you know about my life to judge me and think my life is messed up?" Evelyn asked, annoyed by his choice of words.

    ire gently ced her hand on Evelyn''s arm, her eyes filled with understanding and sadness. "Evie, we''ve all made mistakes," she said softly. "Your father wants to listen to you, so please calm down." Evelyn''s anger began to ebb, reced by a deep sadness and fatigue. She took a deep breath, her shoulders slumping slightly as the adrenaline drained from her body. "I know you didn''t mean to hurt me, Dad. But your expectations, your disappointment. it''s been suffocating All I ever wanted was to get married to Michael. You both knew how much I loved him. Do you think I would call the wedding off without having a good reason I expected better, Dad. I expected your understanding without question I was in pain, Dad! I didn''t expect that other people''s opinions and expectations of a wedding would make you throw me out that way over a canceled wedding?

    Eric looked up at her, his expression pained. "I didn''t expect you to leave, Evelyn. I tried to find you after I calmed down. I just.. I wanted the best for you, and maybe I was too harsh in trying to ensure that." Evelyn shook her head slowly. "And you think I don''t want the best for myself? I need you to understand that and respect my decisions. I''m not a child anymore. I have my own life, my own child. My own family."

    Eric''s eyes flicked toward Derek, then back to Evelyn. "And he he''s part of that family?" There was a hint of disbelief in his tone as if he still couldn''t fully grasp the situation. "Yes, he is." Evelyn said firmly.

    "He is Sandra''s boyfriend, Evelyn Are you aware of that? Is Sandra aware that you have a child for her boyfriend?" ire asked with a concerned frown, worried that Derek might be the reason her daughters were not getting along

    "If you''re willing to listen, we can all sit down and talk. I''ll exin everything to you, and we can start to figure this out together, Evelyn said, gesturing toward the couch.

    Eric hesitated for a moment before finally nodding as he exchanged a nce with his wife. "Alright," he agreed, his voice softer and more resigned. "Let''s talk," he said as they sat down.

    Evelyn smiled, feeling a small sense of relief. The hardest part was over, and though there was still a long way to go, she was hopeful.

    She nced at Derek, who gave her a reassuring nod, and then back at her father as she sat down, and Derek stood behind her. "What happened! Why

    sy did you call off the wedding? Why are you with Michael''s cousin! When did you have Samantha? Why didn''t you tell me? Why didn''t youe back home all this while?" Eric asked, the questions tumbling out

    Evelyn''s throat tightened, and she sped her hands together as her heart began to beat fast. She had rehearsed this conversation a hundred times in her head, but now, seated here, with her father looking at her with both hurt and confusion, all her practiced words vanished.

    I... I was scared, Dad," she finally managed, her voice trembling. "I was scared of how you''d react. I know you do not approve of having kids outside wedlock, and I didn''t want to disappoint you more. I wasn''t sure if you''d wee us."

    "You weren''t sure if I''d wee you?" Eric echoed, his tone incredulous. "Evelyn, you''re my daughter. I raised you to be strong and to face life''s

    challenges head-on, not to hide them from me"

    ire ced her hand gently on Eric''s arm. "Eric, let her exin. This isn''t easy for her."

    Evelyn swallowed. "Before I say anything. I know that what I''m about to say wille as a shock to you both. I will understand if you do not believe me, but I will appreciate it if you give me the benefit of the doubt and give me time to prove it to you," Evelyn said, and her parents exchanged a look before giving her a nodN?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Evelyn took

    a deep breath, "I called off the wedding because I saw Michael and Sandra in bed together the day before our wedding?"

 Chapter 108

    The silence that followed Evelyn''s confession was deafening. Eric''s eyes widened in shock, and for a long moment, he didn''t speak. ire, however, visibly stiffened, her hand rising to cover her mouth. "What?" ire whispered, her voice filled with disbelief

    Evelyn nodded, her voice breaking as she continued. She told them how Sandra had left her with the designer, iming she wanted to check on florist, and how she had left for Michael''s ce for a surprise visit only to find them in bed together and hear them talking about her.

    I was so broken and didn''t know what to do, I didn''t want toe back home to see either of them" Evelyn blinked back tears, "That was how I met Derek that day. My car hit his," she said, and her parents turned to Derek.

    -you were involved in an ident?" ire asked with a worried frown.

    Evelyn''s lips wobbled, and tears dropped from her eyes as

    is the nodded, remembering

    ring the pain afresh.

    "I can''t believe this," Eric said with a shake of his head as he rose, trying to process all that Evelyn had just said,

    "Eric."

    "This doesn''t make any sense. If something like this happened, why would you keep it to yourself? Why not confront them? Why run away? How do you expect me to believe this?" He asked before his wife could say anything.

    "I didn''t know how to face them. I was ashamed that I was a fool for so long. I was hurt. Maybe if Sandra had been a stranger, it would have been different. If she were my friend, it would have yed out differently. But Sandra is my sister! She is your daughter, too. I didn''t have any proof How could I just expose something like that?" Evelyn asked, crying now.

    Samantha, who had been hearing their voices but could note out because of Maya, ran out when Maya went into the restroom to ease herself. Sensing the tension in the room but not fully understanding it, she went to her mother. "Mommy? Why are you crying"" she asked, then went to

    Enc

    She tugged at his hand "Grandfather, why are you making my Mommy cry! Are you mad at her?"

    Eric''s expression softened immediately as he looked down at Samantha, her wide eyes full of innocence. He knelt once more, hand in his "No, sweetheart. I''m not mad at your mommy. We are just... talking."

    assured her.

    "Go back to your room, darling. I''m fine." Evelyn assa

    taking her small

    Samantha looked at Derek, and when he winked at her and gave her a nod, she smiled. Satisfied with the answers, the scampered off toward her

    FOGLIL

    Once she was out of earshot, Eric faced Evelyn again, his face flushed with anger. However, before he could speak, Derek spoke up.

    "I was with Evelyn that day. I can prove it to you if you want me to. She wasn''t okay. She was crying so much that she got into an ident. I couldn''t let her drive away in that state, and I had to take her back to my hotel. She spent the night with me but left before I woke up. I spent thest six years searching for her until she showed up in my office recently. I have evidence of it all Derek said as he took out his phone and scrolled through

    his drive

    Evelyn looked at Derek, wondering what Evidence he could possibly have since he had not mentioned anything to her.

    Derek clicked on the footage clip of Evelyn crying as she walked into the hotel with him six years ago. "This was her with me. I had to get this for the private investigator I got to help me find her." When he started his search for Evelyn six years ago, he had gotten the footage from the hotel''s security room.

    ire rose to join Erie in watching the footage, and although it wasn''t so clear, they could tell the person in the video was Evelyn.

    When they were done with the video, Derek showed them pictures of the ident scene that his driver had captured and sent to him.

    "Sandra really did something like that! To you?" ire asked, her voice trembling, and Evelyn nodded again, her heart aching as she saw the hurt in her stepmother''s eyes.

    "Yes, Mom. That''s why I couldn''t go through with the wedding. I couldn''t marry a man who hail, who had been with my own sister. Evelyn said. her lips trembling.

    Eric''s hands clenched into fists, his jaw tightening as he looked away, his anger clearly boiling beneath the surface.

    On the other hand, ire seemed to be struggling to keep herposure. She had known that Evelyn had something against Sandra, but she never would have imagined that it was something of this magnitude.

    11:23 AM

    She couldn''t say she had not worried about Sandra''s close rtionship with Michael or noticed how Sandra subtly kept trying to make Eric mad at Evelyn, but this! This was something totally different and uneptable.

    For a moment, she looked as though she might crumble under the weight of the revtion. Then, to Evelyn''s surprise, she straightened her back, her expression hardening.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "If this is true," ire said quietly, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her eyes, "then Sandra has a lot to answer for."

    Still reeling from the news, Eric looked at Evelyn, his voice thick with emotion. "I''m so sorry, Evelyn. I had no idea. If I had known-

    Evelyn cut him off, shaking her head. "Dad, it''s okay. I didn''t expect you to know. I kept it from you also because I didn''t want to hurt you or Mom."

    "No. It''s not okay. I was too harsh and didn''t even give you a chance. You were hurt, and I didn''t pay attention as your father. I failed you when you needed me," Eric said, unable to forgive himself for taking Michael''s side all these years.

    "It was stupid of you to keep something like this away from us, Evelyn. All this while you stayed away from your father because of this? We are your parents. If Sandra did something like this, you were supposed to tell us. How could you have gone through all of this alone simply because you were trying to protect us!" ire scolded, shaking her head.

    "I''m sorry. I didn''t know better, Evelyn cried.

    Ent reached out, pulling Evelyn into a tight embrace. "You''ve been through so much, and I''m sorry I wasn''t there for you. I''m sorry I didn''t listen or give you a chance to confide in me Evelyn buried her face in his chest, breaking into a sob. "I''m sorry, Dad. I was scared."

    Eric''s voice was firm as he held her close. "There''s nothing to forgive, Evelyn. You did what you thought was right. I''m the one who is sorry."

    Still visibly shaken butposed, ire stepped forward and ced a hand on Evelyn''s shoulder. "We''ll deal with Sandra," she said softly. "But for now, let''s focus on being here for you." Evelyn pulled back from her father, wiping her tears as she looked at both of them. "Thank you. I wasn''t sure how this would go, but... thank you" Eric sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly as the tension seemed to drain from his body. He looked at his daughter with a mixture of love and disappointment. "I just.. I always thought we had a better rtionship than this, I wish you had trusted me with this, Evelyn. I would''ve stood by you," Eric said, brushing off her tears while Derek watched them, relieved that her parents were reacting as he had hoped they would.

    ire, sensing the delicate nature of the moment, took a step back, giving father and daughter the space they needed.

    Evelyn''s heart squeezed painfully at her father''s words. She had always valued his opinion, and the thought of letting him down had haunted her for years, warring with her disappointment at his reaction. "Everything was soplicated in my head. I didn''t know how to handle it all myself." Im going to handle it. I will make sure I deal with Michael.."

    "You can''t do that, Dad. You can''t do anything yet or let h tell you."

    him or Sandra know you are aware," she cut in, her voice steadying, "there''s more I need to

    Eric''s brow furrowed again, but he nodded, gesturing for her to continue. Tim listening

    Evelyn took a deep breath, ncing briefly at ire, who offered her an encouraging nod. "Before that, about what happened at the anniversary party. I never pushed Sandra. She put up the act herself. I had to pour the wine on her because she was trying to make me look bad, so I thought I should y along." Evelyn exined.

    "Is that girl even my daughter? ire asked, unable to understand Sandra and her schemes.

    Eric sighed deeply. "Let''s sit down," he suggested, and they all sat down again.

 Chapter 109

    109

    Evelyn settled back in her seat, her heart pounding as she prepared to reveal the final pieces of the puzzle to her parents. Eric and ire, still reeling from the weight of the previous revtions, looked at her with a mixture of concern and anticipation.

    "Mom, Dad," Evelyn began, her voice trembling slightly, "there''s more you need to know. Michael and Sandra... they''re not just close. They re working together, and it''s more than just their affair. They nted a bug in Derek''s office." Her words hung in the air, thick with the gravity of the usation.

    Eric frowned deeply; his confusion was evident. "A bug? You mean... they were spying on Derek?" Eric asked, ncing at Derek, who was still silent.

    After seeing that Evelyn was capable of handling herself, Derek had relegated himself to the background since it was a family discussion, and his only reason for being there was to give Evelyn moral support and defend her.

    Derek nodded. "Yes, they were listening to our conversations."

    "They were trying to gather information to sabotage me. And it worked. They were the ones who leaked the news about Derek, which was all over the cest weekend. That was private information that Derek confided in me. It caused problems between Derek and me. And it almost led to me losing my job."

    ire gasped, her hand flying to her mouth as her eyes filled with tears. "They did what? But why? What could Sandra possibly gain from doing something so cruel? Why is she still after you?"

    Evelyn hesitated, her gaze shifting between her parents. "Now that I think about it, I think they did that because they wanted me out of Derek''s life and also so that the interview would not hold. I believe Sandra is trying to manipte her way into Derek''s life, the same way Michael did with me. She wants to marry Derek for his wealth, and Michael is in it with her."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    ire''s face paled, her shoulders slumping as the realization of her daughter''s greed settled in. "Sandra... my Sandra... would do something like this?" Her voice was barely above a whisper, thick with sorrow.

    Evelyn''s heart ached at the sight of her stepmother''s pain. "I''m sorry, Mom. I know this is hard to hear."

    Eric ced an arm over ire''s shoulder, "Calm down, darling."

    "How can I be calm after all the trouble she has caused? I always suspected that she was up to no good.

    But this? This is evil. I can''t believe that girl is my daughter," ire said as she broke into a sob.

    The room was filled with a tense silence, broken only by the sound of ire''s quiet sobs. Eric, his expression one of deep sorrow, reached out and took his wife''s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "ire, this isn''t your fault. You did everything you could as a mother.

    You''ve been there for Evelyn, and that''s what matters."

    Evelyn, fighting back her own tears, nodded in agreement. "Dad''s right, Mom. You''ve always been good to me, and I don''t want you to me yourself for what Sandra has be." ire shook her head, her eyes glistening with tears.

    "But I should have seen it, Evelyn. I should have known..."

    "No""" Eric interjected, his voice firm. "You''re not a magician or a fortune teller. You couldn''t have known.

    You can''t hold yourself responsible for Sandra''s choices. You''ve been a wonderful mother, and you''ve done your best. That''s all any of us can do."

    Evelyn leaned forward, her voice softer now as she tried to reassure ire. "Dad is right. None of this is your fault, so stop ming yourself. The only reason I''m telling you this is because now is because I''ve made up my mind- I''m not going to let her get away with this anymore. I''m done ignoring what she''s done to me. I won''t consider her my sister any longer. I''m going to fight her, fire for fire," Evelyn said firmly. Eric nodded, his face set with determination. "We''ll do whatever it takes to support you, Evelyn. For all the pain Sandra has caused, you have our full backing."

    ire, still struggling to process everything, tinally nodded in agreement. "Yes, Evelyn. We''ll support yo

    You''re not alone in this."

    "Thanks. I''m going to return to the familypany.

    But I need your help. I don''t want Sandra to know anything about what I''ve told you. I''m going toe over and ask you to forgive me and give me a job-in front of her. She can''t suspect anything," Evelyn said, and her parents nodded.

    "We''ll keep this between us," Eric assured her. Despite the reassurance, the weight of his earlier mistakes still bore down on him, filling him with regret.

    With the difficult conversation behind them, Evelyn stood up, wiping the remaining tears from her eyes.

    "Thank you. Now, I''m going to heat up dinner. We all need to eat."

    ire quickly rose to her feet, her maternal instincts kicking in. "I''ll help you, dear."

    As they moved toward the kitchen, Eric remained seated, his gaze shifting to Derek. The silence between them was heavy with unspoken words until Eric finally broke it. "Derek... I owe you an apology. I was rude earlier and didn''t give you or my daughter the benefit of the doubt. I''m sorry. And thank you for standing by Evelyn and for being there for her when I wasn''t."

    Derek met Eric''s gaze, his expression sincere. "All is forgiven. All that matters to me is that everything has been resolved. All I want is for Evelyn to be happy," he said, and Eric smiled, pleased with his response.

    "When did you find out about all this? When did she tell you?" Eric asked, and Derek sighed.

    "Yesterday. She told me about Michael and Sandra yesterday. I also found out about Samantha yesterday.

    With your permission, I''d like to marry her once this is all over," Derek said, and Eric smiled.

    "If she is willing, you have my support. As you can see, Evelyn makes her own decisions," he said, and Derek chuckled.

    "Yes, she does. You should know that I n to move Evelyn and Samantha away from here to somewhere more secure. I don''t trust Michael and Sandra, not after everything I''ve learned."

    Eric considered Derek''s words carefully, the concern for his daughter evident in his eyes. "You''re right. It''s a good idea. We should do whatever it takes to keep them safe."

    In the kitchen, ire watched Evelyn as she heated the food, her heart heavy with the knowledge of how much her stepdaughter had endured in silence.

    Without warning, she moved closer and enveloped Evelyn in a tight embrace. "Thank you, Evelyn, for finally opening up to us. I''m so sorry for everything. I understand now, and I wish I had sooner."

    Evelyn leaned into ire''s embrace, feeling the warmth and sincerity in her stepmother''s touch.

    "Thank you, Mom. I was worried... that you might take Sandra''s side."

    ire pulled back slightly, her hands resting on Evelyn''s shoulders. "Evelyn, you''re as much my daughter as Sandra is. I could never choose one over the other, especially not when ites to something like this. You''re my daughter, and I''ll always stand by you."

    Tears welled up in Evelyn''s eyes once more, but this time, they were tears of relief. "I''m so d to hear that.

    I''ve been carrying this for so long, and it''s such a relief to share it with you finally."

    ire smiled, though it was tinged with sadness. "You don''t have to carry it alone anymore. We''re here for you." She nced toward the doorway, where Samantha''s quiet voice could be heard. "I should go check on my granddaughter."

    As ire left the kitchen, Evelyn stood alone for a moment; the weight of her secrets finally lifted. She took a deep breath, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. For the first time in a long while, she didn''t feel like she was hiding anymore.

 Chapter 110

    110

    The evening had taken on a peaceful tone, the weight of secrets lifted and reced by aforting sense of unity. As Evelyn saw her parents off to their car, she felt a mixture of relief and gratitude. Standing beside the car, Evelyn hugged her mother first, holding her tightly as ire whispered words of reassurance into her ear. "You''re stronger than you know, Evelyn. We''re always here for you." Evelyn nodded, her voice thick with emotion. "Thank you, Mom. I don''t know what I would''ve done without you tonight."

    ire pulled back and offered a warm smile before stepping aside so Eric could say his goodbyes. Evelyn''s father wrapped her in a strong embrace, his familiar scent of cologne mixed with the warmth of home.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    He held her for a moment longer than usual, his hands gently rubbing her back in aforting gesture.

    "I''m so proud of you, Evelyn," Eric said softly as he pulled away just enough to look her in the eyes. His gaze was full of affection and pride. "And Samantha... she''s a wonderful little girl. I can''t wait to get to know her better and spend more time with her. She''s just as amazing as her mother."

    Evelyn smiled through the tears that threatened to spill over. "She''s going to love spending time with you, Dad. Thank you foring."

    Eric kissed her forehead gently, a gesture that took her back to her childhood when such kisses were the solution to all her worries. "You take care of yourself, Evelyn. And if you ever need anything, don''t hesitate to call us."

    With a final hug and wave, Evelyn watched her parents enter their car and drive off into the night. The tail lights disappeared around the corner, leaving her standing alone in the quiet parking lot, the cool evening air brushing against her skin.

    As she turned to head back inside, she felt a renewed sense of determination. The conversation with her parents had been difficult but necessary. She wasn''t alone in this battle- she had their support and that of Derek and Rayna, too.

    Once inside, Evelyn headed to Samantha''s room, where she knew Derek would be. Her steps were light but deliberate. She paused when she heard the soft voicesing from the slightly ajar door and peeked inside.

    Derek was sitting on the edge of Samantha''s bed, holding a book in his hands. Samantha, her eyes wide with fascination, was snuggled under her nkets, listening intently as Derek read to her. But it wasn''t the words on the page that held Evelyn''s attention- it was the conversation that followed.

    "Daddy, I''m so happy you''re here," Samantha whispered, her little voice filled with joy. "I always wanted a daddy to read me bedtime stories."

    Derek''s heart melted at her words. He closed the book gently and looked down at her with a tender smile.

    "I''m happy to be here too, baby. I''ll read you as many bedtime stories as you want every night."

    Evelyn''s heart swelled with emotion as she watched them. The bond forming between Derek and Samantha was everything she had ever hoped for. She quietly stepped back, leaving them to their moment, and made her way to the kitchen.

    Maya was there, diligently cleaning up after dinner.

    The kitchen smelled faintly of the evening''s meal, and the clinking of dishes was the only sound breaking the silence. Evelyn hesitated in the doorway, unsure of how to begin the conversation she knew they needed to have.

    "Maya" Evelyn finally said, stepping into the room.

    Maya looked up, surprised but smiling as she set down the dish she was drying.

    "Yes, Evelyn?"

    Evelyn took a deep breath, leaning against the counter.

    "I know this past few days have been confusing with everything that''s been going on. And I think you deserve to know what''s happening. So, tomorrow, after Samantha leaves for school, I''ll exin everything. You''ve been here for us through so much, and I don''t want to keep you in the dark."

    Maya''s expression softened, a mix of relief and curiosity evident in her eyes. "I have been wondering, but I didn''t want to pry. I appreciate you being willing to tell me."

    Evelyn nodded, feeling a sense of responsibility toward Maya, who had been more than just Samantha''s nanny- she had been family. "I promise I''ll exin it all. But for now, let''s finish up here."

    The two women worked together infortable silence, washing dishes and tidying up the kitchen. By the time they finished, the kitchen was spotless, and Evelyn felt a sense of calm wash over her. Excusing herself, Evelyn went to her bedroom. She stepped into the bathroom, letting the warm water of the shower soothe her tense muscles. The events of the evening yed over in her mind, but instead of anxiety, she felt a sense of closure and hope for what was toe.

    Just as she stepped out of the bathroom, towel wrapped around her, there was a soft knock on the door. Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat as she instinctively knew who it was.

    "Come in," she called, a shy smile ying on her lips as Derek stepped into the room and shut the door behind him.

    He grinned when he saw her, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "It seems like one of us is always seeing the other in a towel."

    Evelyn giggled, feeling a warmth spread through her at his yful tone. "Don''t remind me."

    Derek''s grin softened into a tender smile as he took a step closer. "I need to leave now, but..."

    Before he could finish, Evelyn closed the distance between them and kissed him, her lips pressing against his in a gesture filled with gratitude and something deeper. Derek''s surprise quickly melted into a grin as he pulled back slightly.

    "What was that for?" he asked, his voice low and teasing. "Are you trying to seduce me again?"

    Evelynughed softly, shaking her head. "No... well, maybe. But mostly, I was thanking you. For standing up for me earlier. For making me speak up for myself. My Dad was quite shocked."

    Derek''s eyes softened as he looked at her, his hand reaching up to tuck a damp strand of hair behind her ear. "Well, I came to tell you that you did great tonight. You were wonderful, Eve."

    Evelyn''s heart fluttered at his words, and she looked down, feeling a bit shy. "And it was because you were there. By the way, about the clip you showed them earlier. I really didn''t think you were trying to find me all those years."

    Derek''s gaze grew serious as he gently lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes. "I was. From the moment I saw you, I knew I had to find you again. I fell in love with you at first sight."

    Evelyn''s eyes widened, a blush creeping up her cheeks.

    "At what point while I was crying did you fall for me?

    Don''t tell me you have a fetish for cryingdies?" she asked yfully, trying to hide her embarrassment.

    Derekughed, the sound deep and warm. "Maybe I do," he teased, his hand brushing against her cheek.

    "But I''m d you came back to the hotel room with me that day. I''m d you chose to recklessly have sex with a stranger."

    Evelyn rolled her eyes, though she couldn''t hide the smile tugging at her lips. "I don''t know what I was thinking. In retrospect, that was a very stupid thing to do."

    Derek''s expression softened further as he cupped her face in his hands. "I don''t know what I was thinking either by epting, but I''m d we both did something so dumb."

    Before Evelyn could respond, Derek leaned in and kissed her deeply, his lips capturing hers in a way that made the room seem to spin. For a moment, they were lost in each other, the intensity of the kiss making everything else fade away. When Derek finally pulled back, his breath was ragged, his eyes dark with desire.

    "I should leave now. If we continue this, I''m going to make love to you," he said, his voice husky.

    Evelyn''s heart raced as she looked up at him, her own desire mirroring his. "What if I want you to?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    "Are you sure?" Derek asked, and she nodded.

    "I''m sure."

    Derek''s eyes searched hers for a moment, and when he saw the certainty in them, he wasted no time. He scooped her up into his arms, carrying her to the bed with a sense of urgency and tenderness all at once. Heid her down gently, his hands and lips exploring her with a reverence that made her feel cherished and loved

    As they made love, their connection deepened in ways words could not express. It was more than just the physical act¨D it was the culmination of years of longing, of unspoken feelings, and of the love that had blossomed between them despite all the obstacles.

    They moved together as if they had always been meant to, their bodies and souls entwined in a dance of passion and love.

    When it was over, theyy in each other''s arms, their breathing slowly returning to normal. Derek pressed a soft kiss to Evelyn''s forehead, pulling her closer as she snuggled against him.

    "I love you," he whispered, the words filled with emotion. "I always will"

    Evelyn smiled, feeling a tear slip down her cheek- not out of sadness, but out of the overwhelming happiness that filled her heart. She didn''t say the words back, and Derek didn''t pressure her to do that either. Derek waited until she had drifted off to sleep before leaving.

 Chapter 111

    The following day, Erie sat at the head of the dining table, dressed in a crisp white shirt. His expression was unreadable as he stirred his coffee absently while thinking about his daughter, Evelyn, and how he had failed her.

    ire, seated beside him, was equally quiet, her eyes downcast as she picked at her fruit sd. She was equally thinking of her daughter, Sandra, and how she had failed to raise her correctly.

    The click of heels against the floor announced Sandra''s arrival. She entered the dining room looking forlorn, although her hair was perfectly styled. and her makeup wlessly applied, as always. "Good morning!"

    "she greeted as she slid into her chair opposite her parents.

    Eric and ire looked up simultaneously, their expressions neutral as they greeted her. "Morning," Eric muttered, his voicecking the warmth it usually held.

    ire echoed the greeting with a forced smile, her eyes flickering briefly to Sandra''s before dropping back to her te.

    Sandra didn''t seem to notice the tension in the air, if she did, she chose to ignore it. She poured herself a cup of coffee, her movements smooth and practiced. After taking a sip, she set the cup clown and leaned back in her chair, her gaze flitting between her parents "So," she began, her tone casual, "how was your datest night?"

    Eric and ire exchanged a quick nce, both of them struggling to maintain theirposure. "It was fine, ire answered, forcing a smile that didn''t reach her eyes. "We had a nice time."

    "Yeah, it was good, Eric added, his tone clipped. He avoided looking directly at Sandra, focusing instead on his te as he cut into his eggs with a finle more force than necessary

    Sandra''s e eyes narrowed slightly as she studied them, but she still didn''t pick up on their unease. "That''s great," she said, her voice light. "You both deserve some time to yourselves.

    She took another sip of her coffee, then set the cup down with a satisfied sigh. "Anyway, you won''t believe what Evelyn did yesterday."

    The mention of Evelyn''s name from her, as usual, caused Eric''s hand to freeze mid-motion. His jaw clenched, and he slowly set his fork down, his appetite suddenly gone.

    Eric finally looked up, his eyes sharp as they locked onto Sandra''s. "What has she done this time?" he asked, his voice low and dangerous, Sandra, mistaking his reaction for his usual anger at Evelyn, smirked inwardly, leaned forward in her seat, and sighed as though she was worried that by saying it, she might cause some more trouble.

    "I''m not sure if I should."

    "If you''re going to speak, then do so. If you won''t, keep shut!" ire snapped at Sandra, causing her to flinch

    "She''s trying to seduce Michael''s cousin, Derek. Can you believe that?" Sandra asked, her voiceced with disbelief

    ire frowned, her fork pausing mid-air. "That''s ridiculous," she said, her voice incredulous. "Where did you hear that!"

    Sandra waved a hand dismissively. "Evelyn told me herself," she replied, her tone suggesting that it was the most obvious thing in the world.

    "When and where did you both have this conversation?" ire asked, even though she knew already because Evelyn had told them about it and had also yed the recording of her conversation with Sandra to them

    Sandra bowed her head sadly. "Yesterday. I went to her office to plead with her, as my sister, to leave Derek alone because we are in a rtionship. I cried and begged, but she told me that she wanted Derek and that I could have Michael. I don''t know what I did to her, but she''s always behaving this way, always trying to cause trouble for me. She''s giving our family a bad name. And now, because of her behavior, she''s lost her job," Sandra said with a worried frown

    Eric''s grip tightened around his coffee cup, his knuckles whitening. He could feel his blood boiling, but not for the reasons Sandra assumed. He hated hearing her talk about Evelyn this way, spreading more hes and twisting the truth to salt her narrative,

    ire, sensing the growing tension, quicklyposed herself. ¡°She lost her job?¡± she asked, feigning surprise. ¡°Maybe now she will return to the familypany and take her ce

    Sandra''s smile faltered, and for a split second, a scowl threatened to break through herposed exterior. She quickly forced a smile back to her face, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "Yes. It would be nice if Dad could forgive her and let her return," she said, her voice tight

    Eric''s eyes bone into Sandra''s as he asked, "Are you sure about that?"

    Cluper li

    Sandra didn''t hesitate before nodding "Yes, Dad. Of course," she replied, though her voicecked conviction.

    Eric sighed, setting down his coffee cup with a thud. "If that''s what you want," he said, his voice heavy with implication. "But if you can convince Evelyn toe ask for my forgiveness and beg me for a job, then I''ll let her have it."

    As if on rur, the sound of footsteps echoed from the hallway, and Evelyn appeared at the entrance to the dining room. She stood there for a moment, her posture poised and confident as she took in the scene before her.

    Sandra''s eyes widened in surprise, her carefully crafted mask slipping for a brief moment as she met Evelyn''s gaze.

    "I want to join the family magazine, Evelyn said calmly, ber voice cutting through the tension in the room. She stepped further into the room, meeting her father''s gaze

    Eric looked at her. his expression unreadable as he leaned back in his chair. "Do you now?" he asked, his voice deceptively mild.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Without hesitation. Evelyn walked over to her father''s side of the table and knelt before him. "I''m sorry for everything, Dad. I know I disappointed you and hum your feelings. Please forgive me, she said, her voice steady. "I want toe back"

    Sandra stared at her in disbelief, her mind racing as she tried to process what was happening. This wasn''t how things were supposed to go. Evelyn wasn''t supposed to be here this way

    Evelyn was supposed to be groveling and begging, not taking charge like this. Was this Evelyn''s way of showing her that she truly meant war and wasing back to take her ce!

 Chapter 112

    Eric''s gaze flickered to Sandra, who was now visibly struggling to maintain herposure. "What do you think, Sandra? Should I let your return?" he asked, his voice holding a challenge.

    Sandra forced a tight smile, though it was clear she was struggling shaking slightly

    sister

    g to contain her anger. I don''t think Evelyn should return yet," she said, her voice

    "Weren''t we just asking your father to let her return to the magazine?" ire asked, reminding Sandra of the conversation they were having before Evelyn showed up.

    "Yes, Mor. But at the moment, she has a bad reputation, which could reflect poorly on thepany. If we have to give her a job, it should be a lower-ranking job. That way, she can prove herself" Evelyn remained kneeling, her expression unbothered by Sandra''s words. "Before I lost my job, I was able to secure an interview with Mr Derek Stone. My first project will be to interview Derek," she said confidently, her eyes still locked on her father''s. "It will be a major story for the family magazine."

    Eric nodded slowly, a hint of a smile ying at the corners of his mouth. "Isn''t that the young man you just mentioned?" Eric asked Sandra curiously.

    "Yes. Dad. But..

    "Why is he granting Evelyn an

    interview

    ew instead of you!" Eric asked, and Sandra forced a smile.

    "My Derek likes to keep his personal and professional life separate, Sandra said, and her father nodded.

    "I see. Well then, I forgive you. Evelyn. You can rise. You''re wee to resume at the office on Monday. Evelyn," he said, his tone final.

    Sandra lilinked, surprised that their father had forgiven Evelyn so easily. She couldn''t have that, She couldn''t let Evelyne back here like this.

    No way

    Sandra watched with anger as Evelyn rove, and ire smiled at her. "Evie, why don''t you join us for breakfast?" she suggested, rising from her seal. "The missed having you here this way. I''ll get you an extra cup"

    Ene stood as well, smoothing his tie as he nced at his watch, "I need leave to make a call," he said, his voice businesslike. He exited the room at the same time as his wife, leaving the two sisters alone As soon as their parents were out of earshot, Sandra leaned forward, her eyes shing with fury. "What do you think you''re doing? Do you really! think you still have a ce in this family or at the magazine?" the hissed, her voice low and venomous.

    Evelynughed softly, the sound filled with a confidence that rattled Sandra. She leaned back in her seat, her eyes glinting with amusement. "I''ll always luve a ce in this family and at the magazine, Sandra. It belongs to MY father, after all," Evelyn said, knowing their parents were spying on

    them

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed, her hand

    nd itching tosh out, "Not if I have anything to say about it. Do you really think I''m going to let you crawl back here? You have no ce here, not in this family, not at the magazine, and definitely not at this table. I''ll make sure of it," Sandra said with a venomous smile as she rose..

    "Unfortunately, that''s not up to you," Evelyn said, keeping her calm.

    While Evelyn was still talking, Sandra drew closer to her and knelt down in front of her. "Watch and see, Sandra said. Before Evelyn could process what she was up to, Sandra pped herself hand across the face and let out a piercing scream, her voice echoing through the dining room.

    "Ow! Evelyn, how could you?" she cried, her voice filled with exaggerated pain and shock as she walled loud enough for their parents to hear. Evelyn didn''t flinch, her gaze steady as she watched Sandra''s performance with a mixture of pity and disdain. As Eric and ire rushed back into the room, concern enched on their faces, Sandra began to sob, clutching her cheek as if in pain.

    Eric''s eyes immediately darkened at the sight of Sandra clutching her cheek, her eyes brimming with tears.

    "Sandra, what happened?" ire asked, rushing to her side.

    "What happened?" Eric demanded, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene before him.

    "She pped me!" Sandra cried, pointing a trembling finger at Evelyn, "I was asking her to please leave Derek alone now that she is back as a part of this family, and she asked me to kneel and beg. I did as she said, and then she hit me," Sandra cried as she rose from the floor.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Evelyn didn''t rise from her seat, her expression serene as she looked up at her father. "She is putting up a show, Dad. I didn''t touch her," she said

    12

    calmly, her voice ummavering. "She''s lying."

    Sandra''s tears flowed freely now, her expression one of hurt innocence. "She''s lying, Dad! She''s always been jealous of me, and now she''s trying to make me look bad!"

    ire nced between her daughters, her expression tom as if she was trying to make sense of the situation even though she had seen everything that had happened.

    Before ire could speak, Eric''s jaw tightened. his eyes narrowing as he turned to Evelyn. "You came here asking for forgiveness only to cause more trouble!" Erie asked, and tears sprang to Evelyn''s eyes while Sandra watched with satisfaction.

    Evelyn turned to Sandra, "Sandra, you can y this game all you want, but it''s not going to work this time. I know you''re trying to turn Dad against me, but it''s not going to happen. You know I didn''t p you." Sandra''s expression hardened, the mask of tears slipping as anger shed in her eyes. "What did I ever do to you? Why are you doing this to me? First, you embarrass me at the party, and then you try to seduce my boyfriend. Now this? Why?"

    Evelyn sighed inwardly. She was grateful that she hade clean with her parents and had arranged for them to see firsthand what a talented actress Sandra was. "Dad. I didn''t."

    "How

    ow do you expect me to believe you when you''re always causing trouble?" he asked Evelyn sharply, causing her to flinch. "Darling."

    "Answer me" Eric roared at Evelyn, cutting off whatever his wife had to say.

    Evelyn hesitated, her eyes darting between her father''s stern gaze and Sandra''s teary eyes. "I have evidence. My phone''s recorder is on," Evelyn said, and Sandra''s eyes widened in surprise. She had not expected that. Why would Evelyn''s recorder be on? Had Evelyne here nning for this to happen!

    "You do? Then go ahead and y it," ire encouraged Evelyn.

    "Should I?" Evelyn asked Sandra as she rose gracefully to her feet.

    "Why are you asking her that? You should y it if you have it," their father said, and Evelyn opened her handbag and took out her phone from Inside.

    Sandra''s heart raced as Evelyn yed the recording true to her words. She knew she was trapped, and the realization sent a wave of panic through her

    "You lied against your sister!" ire asked in a disbelieving tone.

    "I... I didn''t mean any of that, Dad. I was just upset because of what she did to me at the anniversary," she stammered, her earlier bravado crumbling. "Mom, I didn''t mean to...

    Eric''s expression hardened as he stared down at her, disappointment etched in every line of his face. "Enough," he said firmly. "I''m not interested in any of this nonsense drama. Eric growled. "We''ll discuss thister. For now, both of you will sit down and finish breakfast without any more drama," ire instructed firmly.

    Sandra''s face crumpled as she sat back down, her hands trembling slightly as she reached for her coffee

    cup.

    As ire served Evelyn''s breakfast, the room fell into an uneasy silence. Evelyn remained where she stood for a moment longer, her gaze unwavering as she met her father''s eyes. There was a silent understanding between them, one that Sandra was not a part of. Finally, Evelyn took her seat at the table, her movements unhurried and dignified. Sandra seethed in her seat as she w

    watched Evelyn eat at the table. Evelyn had won this round, but she was not going to let her win the next round.

 Chapter 113

    10:55 Bin ?? g?i

    Before heading to his office, Derek found himself driving toward his parents'' home. Because he had been very busy at the office the previous day, he had been unable to visit his father and tell him about Samantha.

    Now, he wanted to do that before going to work since he knew he had another busy day ahead of him.

    As much as he would have loved to tell his mother about Samantha, he knew he couldn''t do that. At least not yet. She didn''t like Evelyn enough yet to want to ept anything that came from Evelyn, and she might just extend her anger at Evelyn to Samantha.

    That was something he didn''t want since he wouldn''t forgive her for it if she tried it.

    He still felt a bit anxious over the lingering tension with his mother. He wasn''t sure what to expect when he arrived, but he knew he couldn''t keep the news of his daughter from his father any longer.

    As he pulled into the driveway, the mansion loomed before him, reminding him of the legacy his family held. Derek parked and took a deep breath before stepping out of the car. The air was cool, a slight breeze rustling the leaves of the oak trees lining the property.

    With determined steps, he approached the front door.

    The door swung open before he could knock, and his mother stepped outside in her gardening clothes with the butler beside her.

    Seeing him, her expression was a mask of cold indifference. She nced at him briefly before turning away, herck of a greeting stinging more than he cared to admit. The tension between them was evident, but Derek forced himself to remain calm, determined not to let her icy behavior affect him.

    "Good morning, Mom," Derek greeted her pleasantly.

    She didn''t respond. Instead she headed in the direction of the garden without a word.

    Derek watched her retreating figure for a moment, the silence between them thick with unresolved issues.

    But he pushed it aside, focusing on why he was here. If she was going to be this way, then he was going to let her be. Without another nce at her, he made his way toward the study where he knew his father would be.

    Expecting him to stop her or try to beg her, his mother turned when she didn''t hear him following her, and she scowled when she realized he had ignored her, too.

    It was all Evelyn''s fault that wretched golddigger, she reasoned.

    Inside the house, the heavy door to the study was slightly ajar, and Derek knocked lightly before pushing it open. His father, who was seated behind his massive mahogany desk, looked up from the papers on his desk, surprise flickering across his features as he saw Derek.

    "Good morning, Dad. Do you have a moment?"

    "Derek, this is unexpected," he said, leaning back in his chair. "Is there a problem?"

    Derek closed the door behind him, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips and his eyes gleaming with excitement as he approached the desk. "No problem, Dad. Actually, I''ve got some good news." His father''s eyes softened as he noticed the eager look on Derek''s face. "Good news, you say?" he asked, a smile spreading across his face. "Well, you look like you''re about to burst with it. Go on, then. What is it?"

    Derek couldn''t help the grin that spread across his face as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. "First, I wanted to let you know that I''ve made some progress concerning ourst conversation. I''ve managed to hack into Michael''s SIM card and have people monitoring his calls and texts."

    His father nodded, impressed. "That''s fast work, Derek. I didn''t expect you to move so quickly."

    Derek shrugged, still smiling. "I acted fast because something new came up... or rather, someone new. I discovered something." He paused for dramatic effect, then pulled up the picture of Samantha on his phone.

    "Someone new? What''s that?" His father asked when he handed his phone to him.

    His father took the phone, his brow furrowing in confusion as he studied the image. "Who is this pretty little girl?" he asked, looking up at Derek with curiosity. Derek''s grin widened. "That''s Samantha. Your granddaughter."

    His father''s eyes widened in shock, his mouth dropping open slightly as he looked between the photo and Derek. "My granddaughter?" he repeated, incredulous. "Are you pulling my leg, Derek?" Derek chuckled, shaking his head. "No, Dad. I''m serious. I found out about her two days ago. I wanted to tell you sooner, but I''ve been swamped at work and didn''t want to share the news over the phone." His father stared at him in disbelief for a moment before a wide smile broke out on his face. "Samantha...

    Evelyn''s the mother, isn''t she?"

    Derek nodded, his excitement bubbling over as he exined. "Yes, Evelyn is the mother. She found out she was pregnant after she left the country, so she stayed back to have the child. She couldn''t tell me earlier because of her past with Michael. And she was even more skeptical to do so because of my rtionship with him."

    His father''s smile faltered slightly as he asked the following question. "Are you sure the child is yours?"

    Derek nodded confidently. "I''m certain. Evelyn is even open to the idea of a paternity test if it makes you feel better."

    His fatherughed, the sound rich and full of joy. "A granddaughter!" he eximed, shaking his head in amazement. "You know, I''ve always wanted a daughter, and now I have a granddaughter. This is wonderful news, Derek!"

    Derek couldn''t help but boast a little as he continued.

    "Do you know what the best part is? We''ve got a strong bond, Dad. I''d already been interacting with Samantha long before knowing she was Evelyn''s daughter. I met her at the hotel the first day they got into the country, and we''ve been good friends since then," Derek said, and his father chuckled.

    "You seem really happy about being a father," his father said, and Derekughed.

    "I am, Dad. I''m even more happy about being Samantha''s father. She''s brilliant, and she''s an amazing girl," Derek said proudly.

    His father beamed, his pride evident. "I''m not interested in hearing all those details from you right now, Derek. I want to see this child with my own eyes and know her for myself."

    Derekughed, nodding. "We''ll have to arrange that.

    I''m sure she''d love to meet you. After meeting Evelyn''s parentsst night, she asked me about my parents."

    "I thought Michael said Evelyn''s parents do not talk to her, " his father asked, and Derek shook his head.

    "Her stepmom has been by her side this whole time. It was her father who cut her off. But they resolved thingsst night," Derek said and then told his father everything.

    "You didn''t tell them about hacking Michael''s phone, did you?" He asked, and Derek shook his head.

    "I didn''t. Evelyn and I agreed not to say anything to them. The fewer people that know about it, the better," Derek said, and his father nodded with approval.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Before they could continue their conversation, the door to the study creaked open, and Derek''s mother walked in. Both men stopped talking, their expressions guarded as they turned to face her. She nced between them, suspicion in her eyes.

    "What were you two discussing?" she asked, her tone sharp. "And why did you stop when I walked in? Were you talking about me?"

    "Do you think a busy man like Derek wille here so early in the morning to talk about you? We were discussing business," Derek''s father replied smoothly, not missing a beat.

    She raised an eyebrow, clearly not believing him. She moved closer to the desk and noticed Derek''s phone lying on it. Before she could pick it up, Derek quickly snatched it back, rising to his feet.

    "I need to get back to the office, Dad. I''ll let you know when I arrange the meeting with the investor," Derek said, slipping the phone into his pocket.

    His father chuckled at his reference to Samantha as an investor, "Please make it soon. I''m looking forward to this business rtionship," he said, and Derek nodded.

    As he headed for the door, his mother called out to him. "Are you leaving without saying goodbye to me?"

    Derek turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "I thought we were not in talking terms. You ignored me when I greeted you earlier, so I don''t see any reason to say anything else to you now."

    Her eyes narrowed, and her voice wasced with bitterness as she spoke. "You''ve lost all love and respect for me because of Evelyn, haven''t you?"

    Derek''s jaw clenched as he responded. "I''m sure Michael and Sandra are giving you all the love and respect you want, considering you no longer listen to me. So why don''t you keep getting it from them and leave me alone?"

    With that, he turned to his father, giving him a respectful nod. "I''ll be in touch, Dad."

    His father nodded, smiling warmly at him. "I look forward to it, son."

    Derek walked out of the study without another word, leaving his mother fuming in his wake. He could hear her muttering under her breath as he made his way out of the house, but he didn''t look back. He had more important things to focus on now-like introducing his father to the granddaughter he never knew he had.

    "Are you really going to let him disrespect me this way in front of you?" His mother asked his father angrily.

    "Disrespect? I didn''t witness any disrespect. If he did, I would have addressed it. Derek isn''t a kid, and it doesn''t make any sense for you to treat him like one. Plus, I like seeing him this way. That''s the kind of man I want him to be," he said firmly and chuckled when his wife red at him before storming out.

    He had a granddaughter; he mused with a chuckle as he rose to pour himself a celebratory drink.

    Samantha Stone. Not bad at all.

 Chapter 114

    Melvin strolled into the dining room to join Ethan, who was seated at the far end of the table. Ethan had his phone in one hand, hisptop open in front of him, and a furrowed brow that spoke of intense concentration.

    The sunlight streaming through therge windows cast a warm glow over the table, but Ethan seemed oblivious to the picturesque morning.

    Curious, Melvin walked over and took a seat across from him, leaning forward with a grin. "Morning, Ethan," he greeted, his voiceced with amusement.

    "What''s got you so focused this early?"

    Without looking up, Ethan replied, "I''m just looking through my email and checking out thedies who responded to my ad."

    Melvin raised an eyebrow, a smirk ying on his lips.

    "Ad? You mean that ridiculous ad you put out for a wife?" He leaned back in his chair, folding his arms.

    "And how''s that going? How many applicants do you have?"

    Ethan chuckled without looking up, "It''s over a hundred."

    "What? Do you mean we have over a hundreddies who are crazy enough to do this with you in this city?

    What are you going to do then? Narrow the list down to a top ten?" Melvin asked incredulously.

    Ethan finally looked up, his expression half-serious, half-amused. "Yes. I''m trying to do that. There are too many of them, and since I can''t possibly meet them all, I''m just finding ways to streamline the process. Gotta narrow it down to at least five before I even think about meeting anyone."

    Melvin burst outughing. "Streamline? You make it sound like a business deal! This is your future wife you''re talking about, not a new hire."

    Ethan chuckled and shrugged. "Same difference.

    Efficiency is key."

    Shaking his head, Melvin leaned in again, his expression more serious now. "Why are you even going through this whole process, Ethan? We could hook you up with someone just fine. Take Rayna, for instance. I don''t know what went down between you two, but she would''ve been a good fit for you."

    Ethan''s face darkened at the mention of Rayna, his lips pressing into a thin line. "Rayna?" he scoffed. "She''s not my type; besides, I don''t think she''s that smart. I read somewhere that kids get their intelligence from their mothers. I want my kids to have the best shot at life, and I don''t think Rayna has much to offer in that department."

    Melvin couldn''t help butugh at the absurdity of Ethan''s logic. "You''re judging her too harshly, Ethan."

    Ethan''s frown deepened as he turned back to hisptop. "Harsh? No, I''m not. I''m only stating a fact," he said, his tone more defensive now.

    "What did she do to you? Why won''t you say?" Melvin asked incredulously, and Ethan shook his head.

    "Because I don''t want to think about it. The more I think about it, the angrier I get. So, let''s leave it in the past. She already gave me an impression of herself, and that impression overrides anything you''re going to tell me about her," Ethan said stubbornly.

    "So, you''ve met her just what? Once or maybe twice, yet you think your opinion of her overrides mine when I''ve known her for a longer time?" Melvin asked with a snort. "First impressions matter," Ethan said, and Melvin scoffed.

    "Not all the time, it doesn''t. That a person is sad the first time you meet them doesn''t mean they are perpetually sad. We need to change this mindset that first impressions define people. Different things can influence a person''s behavior the first time we meet them, and you, of all people, should know that. I don''t know what she did to you, and I no longer care about it either, but you shouldn''t judge Rayna so harshly.

    She''s a very smartdy."This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    "Not from what I experienced," Ethan replied, his eyes still glued to the screen, "Now, if you''ll excuse me, I need to focus."

    Melvin sighed, realizing that Ethan wasn''t going to be swayed. "Alright, alright," he said, pushing his chair back. "I''ll leave you to it since I have to leave for work anyway. But don''t say I didn''t warn you when you end up with some robotic woman who only ticks all the boxes on paper."

    Ethan merely grunted in response, his focus already back on his task. As Melvin left the dining room, Ethan continued scrolling through the emails of applicants, most of whom had eagerly provided their social media handles and personal details. Some had gone as far as sending him beautiful and sexy photos of themselves. He was about to dismiss yet another application when a particr name caught his eye¡ª Golden Sun.

    He paused, intrigued by the uniqueness of the name.

    Clicking on her email, he was surprised to find that she hadn''t left any social media details, something he had specifically requested in the ad. Instead, she had written a note that piqued his interest even more: [I can''t reveal such personal information to a stranger I don''t know. If you want my personal details, it''s only fair you share something personal about yourself, too, other than your requirements. I have every right to check if you''re my ideal man as well as you do.]

    Ethan''s lips curled into a smile, a quietugh escaping him. The boldness of her response was refreshing, something different from the eager-to-please nature of most of the other applicants. He decided right then that he wanted to know more about this mysterious

    "Golden Sun."

    He picked up his phone and dialed the number she had left, his heart beating a little faster than usual.

    After a few rings, a soft, confident voice answered.

    "Hello?"

    "Hi," Ethan began, trying to keep his tone casual. "This is the guy from the couple ad you responded to."

    "Oh! Hi! I wasn''t expecting a response," Rayna responded,ughing awkwardly.

    "Then why did you apply?" Ethan asked, confused.

    "I meant, I wasn''t expecting a call. Maybe an email, yes. But not a call. And I was expecting a rejection email," she confessed.

    "You were? Why?" Ethan asked, amused.

    "Well, I''m sure you received lots of responses, and then again, I didn''t exactly respond the way you requested. So, I wasn''t keeping my fingers crossed on that," she admitted with a chuckle.

    Ethanughed, "I sort of liked your response, and it made me want to know more about you. Would you mind telling me your name?"

    Rayna chuckled softly. "I''m sticking with Golden Sun for now," she said, her tone yful. "I''ll tell you my real name when I''m sure you''re not a psychopath."

    Ethanughed, genuinely amused. "Fair enough."

    "So, what''s your name?" Rayna asked, liking the sound of his voice.

    "Since you''re not telling me your name, you can call me ET for now," Ethan said, choosing to be mysterious like her.

    "ET? Like the alien?" she teased.

    "Exactly," Ethan replied, grinning.

    Sheughed again, the sound light and musical to Ethan''s ears. He had not thought he would find someone on the list this entertaining. "Alright, ET. So, why did you reach out to me? Did everyone else suck, and you decided to try the craziest one?" She joked, and Ethan chuckled.

    "I''m actually still going through the list," Ethan admitted, leaning back in his chair. "But like I said I liked your response. You stood out, and I wanted to check you out."

    "d to hear it," she replied, her tone still teasing. "I just couldn''t imagine a stranger staring at my photos without knowing anything about him first."

    Ethan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Do strangers not stare at them on the inte?"

    "That''s different if you think about it," she exined.

    "Responding to your ad already puts me in a vulnerable position. I didn''t want topound that by giving away too much."

    "I can see your point," Ethan said thoughtfully. "But don''t you think putting up the ad made me vulnerable too?"

    There was a brief pause before she responded.

    "Maybe," she conceded, "but not as much as you think.

    That''s why I believe it''s only fair you share something more personal about yourself other than your age, location, and requirements."

    Ethan smiled, appreciating her logic. "I don''t want everyone to have my details. That would be weird.

    Imagine putting more information out there.

    Everyone will see me and know that''s the crazy guy who couldn''t get a wife naturally and had to order one online."

    Rayna giggled, "That''s understandable," she replied with a hint of warmth in her voice.

    "So, does calling me mean I''m one of your top ten or five? Or your runner-up?"

    Ethan chuckled, amused that she reasoned like him.

    "I''m still going through the list, but you''ll know what number you are soon."

    "Good to know," she said with a smile in her voice. "So, what now?"

    As they continued talking, Ethan couldn''t shake the feeling that this mysterious woman might just be the spark he''d been looking for. Time would tell, but for now, he was content to explore this unexpected connection, one conversation at a time.

    "You''re fun. I want to keep chatting with you. Let''s get to know each other and see if we''repatible enough to meet." Ethan suggested.

    "You mean like a talking stage?" Rayna asked, to be sure.

    "Yes. If you don''t mind," Ethan said, and Rayna smiled.

    "That sounds fair," she agreed. "But I''m curious-why did you put up an ad instead of dating the normal way?"

    "I don''t have time to date the normal way," Ethan admitted. "My job keeps me away for months, so I thought this would be a more efficient way to find someone. I want to settle down soon." "I can rte," she replied.

    "What about you? Why did you respond?"

    "Well, I responded because this seemed intriguing," Rayna said, and Ethanughed softly. "Intriguing, huh? I like that. I''m looking forward to getting to know you better, Golden Sun." "Likewise, ET, she said, her voice softening. "Let''s see where this goes."

 Chapter 115

    115

    As Rayna ended her conversation with Ethan- or "ET" as he had whimsically introduced himself¡ª she found herself smiling at her phone.

    There was something about their exchange that felt both exciting and oddlyforting. She leaned back in her chair, lost in thought for a moment when the door to her office creaked open. "Evie!" Rayna eximed, instantly brightening as her best friend walked in.

    She couldn''t help but notice that there was something different about Evelyn- something Rayna couldn''t quite put her finger on. Evelyn''s smile was radiant, her eyes gleaming with a joy that she had not seen in a while.

    "Ray!" Evelyn eximed in the same tone, mimicking Rayna, and they bothughed.

    "Guess what?" Rayna blurted out, her excitement bubbling over.

    Evelynughed softly, setting her bag down on a nearby chair. "What?"

    "I just got off the phone with the wife ad guy!" Rayna''s voice was a mixture of disbelief and delight. "And get this

    - he seems to like me!"

    Evelyn''s eyes widened, and she let out an amused chuckle. "That''s fantastic, Ray! Congrattions!" She paused, her expression turning slightly sheepish. "I''m sorry I couldn''t look into the guy before I was...you know, let go."

    Rayna waved her hand dismissively, a grin still stered on her face. "Don''t worry about it. From the way he sounded, he seemed like a pretty cool guy. I have a feeling we''re going to get along really well." Evelyn leaned against the edge of Rayna''s desk, crossing her arms. "So, does that mean you''re no longer interested in meeting Ethan to see if he''s your destiny?"

    Rayna giggled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, I''m still interested. It wouldn''t be so bad to go from not having a man to having two men at the same time- and then choose between them. I don''t want to put all my eggs in one basket."

    Evelyn burst outughing, shaking her head. "You''re crazy, you know that?"

    Rayna joined in theughter, "I know that. Don''t you hear Ray when you say crazy?" She asked, and Evelynughed, too.

    "Crayzy. Yeah. I can definitely hear the Ray in it," Evelyn said with a grin.

    Rayna''s gaze soon softened as she looked more closely at Evelyn. There was something about her friend that was different-something that went beyond the usual glow of happiness. "So, what''s up?" Rayna said, tilting her head curiously, "You''re different today."

    Evelyn''s brow furrowed slightly, a smile tugging at her lips. "What do you mean?"

    "You''re glowing, Evie," Rayna said, her voice tinged with awe. "Your eyes are gleaming. Is it because of Derek?"

    Evelynughed, a soft, musical sound that seemed to fill the room with warmth. "It''s because of everything," she admitted, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I''m just really happy now."

    Rayna''s smile widened as she leaned forward, eager to hear more. "Something funny happened this morning," Evelyn continued, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

    But before she could share the story, Rayna cut in.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    "Wait! How did it gost night with your parents? You never told me."

    Evelyn''s smile softened, a dreamy look crossing her face.

    "Derek was there with me. It was... really good. At first, my father was going to be difficult, but Derek stepped up and handled the situation. He was amazing," Evelyn said and went on to tell Rayna how it had all yed out.

    Rayna leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms with a satisfied nod. "Derek is racking up more and more points with me daily. He''s definitely a keeper."

    Evelyn chuckled, a blush creeping into her cheeks. "He really is. So, as I was going to tell you, you''ll never guess where I just came from."

    Rayna raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Where?"

    "My parents'' house."

    Rayna''s eyes widened in surprise. "What were you doing there? Did you see Sandra?"

    Evelynughed, a hint of mischief in her voice. "Oh, I saw her alright. And I put on quite the show."

    Rayna''s curiosity was piqued, and she leaned forward eagerly. "Tell me everything!"

    Evelyn''s smile turned into a sly grin as she recounted the morning''s events, detailing how she had put her phone on recording as she walked into the house and how it had recorded her conversation with Sandra and yed it back when Sandra tried to put on another performance in front of their parents.

    Rayna listened, her eyes widening with every word, and by the time Evelyn finished, she was pping her hands in delight.

    "That''s my girl!" Rayna eximed, beaming with pride.

    "I''m so proud of you, Evie! You finally stepped up and gave Sandra a taste of her own medicine."

    Evelyn''s smile was radiant as she nodded in agreement.

    "No. I haven''t given her a taste of her own medicine yet.

    This is my medicine. Sandra won''t know what hit her by the time I''m done with her."

    Rayna''s eyes sparkled with approval. "You''re making me feel very proud, Evelyn. You''re finally standing up for yourself."

    Evelyn''s expression softened as she reached out to squeeze Rayna''s hand. "I couldn''t have done it without you, Rayna. I''m so lucky to have a friend like you."

    Rayna waved off thepliment with a grin, though her eyes shone with affection. "It''s nothing, really. I''m sure if the roles were reversed, you would have given me the same advice." Evelyn''s smile grew, "Maybe. Maybe not. Thank you for being a friend I can rely on," Evelyn said, and for a moment, the two friends simply basked in the warmth of their bond. After a while, Rayna raised a brow when she saw Evelyn nce at the time and asked, "Were you heading somewhere?"

    Evelyn nodded, standing up and grabbing her bag. "Yeah, I was going to check out some houses. Derek''s agent sent me some photos, and I need to go see the ces in person." Rayna''s eyes lit up with interest. "Ooh, house hunting! I wish I could go with you, but I''m swamped today."

    Evelyn smiled, shaking her head. "It''s fine. I just wanted to stop by and say hello- and let you know how it went with my parents. And say thank you, and I love you."

    Rayna''s smile softened as she walked Evelyn to the door.

    "I''m really d you did, Evelyn. It''s always good to see you happy like the old times."

    Evelyn turned to her friend, her eyes brimming with gratitude. "Thank you, Ray. For everything."

    Rayna gave her a warm hug, squeezing her tightly before letting go. "Go find your dream house, Evelyn. And when you do, make sure it has a big enough guest room for when Ie to visit." Evelynughed as she waved goodbye, the warmth of their conversation lingering long after she left. As Rayna returned to her desk, she couldn''t help but feel a sense of contentment.

    Life was changing for both of them and for the first time in a long while, the future seemed bright and full of possibilities.

    Rayna''s happy mood was interrupted when her phone suddenly buzzed with a call. She rolled her eyes when she picked it up to see that the call was from Sandra.

    "What does the snake want?" Rayna asked aloud as she received the call.

    "Ray," Sandra called, sobbing.

    Rayna rolled her eyes, "What''s wrong, Sandy? Is everything alright? Why are you crying?"

    "I don''t know what I did to Evelyn. She''s bent on ruining my life," Sandra cried, and Rayna shook her head.

    "What did she do? What''s going on?"

    "She''s trying to turn everyone against me. First, it was my fianc¨¦, Derek. She''s trying to seduce him. Now it''s my parents. She came over to the house this morning and put up a show. She manipted our conversation and made me look like a bad person. I don''t know what to do.

    I''m so hurt and heartbroken," Sandra cried, and Rayna smirked.

    "Sometimes I just can''t believe Evie. How can she do this to you? What can I do to help?" Rayna asked, suspecting that Sandra had a reason for calling.

    "Can we hang out? I need a drink and a friend. Maybeter in the day, we can grab a drink?" Sandra asked, and Rayna nodded.

    "Sure. Let''s do that. Want me to invite Evie over? So, you two can trash your differences?" She offered, even though she knew that wasn''t what Sandra wanted. "No. Please, don''t. I can''t stand her right now," Sandra said with a sniffle.

    "Alright then. I''ll be free by 7 PM. You can let me know when to meet up," Rayna said before hanging up.

    She was very sure that Sandra was up to something, and she couldn''t wait to find out what Sandra nned to do.

 Chapter 116

    116

    After the call with Rayna, Sandra paced around her office.

    Her mind raced as she paced back and forth, her heels clicking against the floor.

    Her confrontation with Evelyn had gone disastrously wrong. She hadn''t expected Evelyn to be so prepared, so ready to counter her move. Sandra clenched her fists, trying to calm the anger simmering just beneath the surface. The thought of Evelyn sitting confidently at the breakfast table, basking in their father''s approval, made her blood boil.

    She needed to talk to Michael, to vent her frustrations, and to figure out what to do next. She stopped pacing and nced at her phone on the desk, her fingers itching to dial Michael''s number.

    But a part of her hesitated. Should she call him or go to his office? After all, he was just as much involved in this mess as she was, and he might be able to offer a solution if they talked face-to-face. Michael had said they should limit physical meetings to avoid raising suspicions, and she didn''t want to risk anything that might jeopardize her chances with Derek.

    Sandra resumed pacing, chewing on her lower lip as she weighed her options. The more she thought about it, the more she agreed that calling was the better choice. It was safer and more discreet. With a frustrated sigh, Sandra grabbed her phone and dialed Michael''s number. She tapped her fingers impatiently on the desk as she waited for him to pick up.

    Michael answered on the first ring, his voice calm and collected. "I was just about to call you," he said.

    "You won''t believe what Evelyn did to me this morning," she said, her voice trembling with barely contained anger.

    "What did you do?" Michael asked, his tone sharpening with interest. He knew Evelyn enough to know she wasn''t someone who stirred trouble unless she was attacked first.

    "What do you mean what did I do?" Sandra snapped.

    "Because I''m sure Evelyn wouldn''t just do something if you didn''t do anything first. So, what did you do?" Michael repeated.

    "Are you taking her side right now?" Sandra asked in disbelief.

    "I''m merely stating a fact. Tell me exactly what happened," Michael ordered.

    Although Sandra didn''t like Michael''s tone, she went on to tell him how Evelyn had shown up during breakfast," she recorded our conversation, Michael! And then she yed it for our parents! I was blindsided,pletely humiliated!" Sandra''s voice rose as she relived the scene, the sting of her parents'' disappointment still fresh in her mind.

    There was a brief silence on the other end of the line before Michael spoke. "Why were you so careless, Sandra?"

    Sandra''s face flushed with anger. "How was I supposed to know she was recording me? It''s not like she''s ever done that before! How can you be defending her right now?" Her grip tightened around the phone, her knuckles turning white.

    "I''m not defending her! You should have known better than to talk to Evelyn like that, especially in a ce where anyone could be listening. You were careless to have that conversation with Evelyn in the dining room of all ces.

    Anyone could have overheard you," Michael said, his tone edged with frustration.

    Sandra huffed, her anger not directed at him this time but at the situation. "That''s not the problem right now.

    The problem is that I don''t want Evelyn back at the family magazine. She''ll ruin everything!"

    Michael sighed, his voice calm but firm. "You need to make a choice, Sandra. You can''t have both Derek and the magazine. You need to decide what''s more important to you."

    Sandra''s breath caught in her throat. "Why can''t I have both?" she demanded, her voice rising in desperation. "I want both, Michael! And I don''t want Evelyn getting either of them or getting in my way!" There was a pause on the other end of the line, and Sandra could almost picture Michael rubbing his temples in exasperation. "Sandra, have you considered the fact that keeping Evelyn close might actually work in your favor? We will know where she is now, and that''s an advantage. If she''s at the magazine, you can keep a close eye on her and control what she does. It''s better to have her where you can see her than letting her run around unchecked."

    Sandra fell silent, considering his words. As much as she hated the idea of Evelyn working at the magazine, Michael had a point. Having Evelyn close meant she could monitor her every move, sabotage her work, and ensure that no one respected her.

    "You''re right," Sandra finally admitted, a slow smile spreading across her face as the n took shape in her mind. "I need to keep my enemy closer."

    "Exactly," Michael said, his voice smooth and reassuring.

    "If you y your cards right, you can ruin Evelyn''s credibility at the magazine. Make her aughingstock.

    Once she loses respect there, even her father will see that you''re the better choice."

    Sandra''s smile widened, the tension in her shoulders easing as she imagined Evelyn''s downfall. "I''d like to see that happen."

    "Good. Now stop worrying about Evelyn. I''ve missed you.

    I want us to meet." Michael''s voice took on a more seductive tone.

    Sandra hesitated for a moment, "You know we shouldn''t meet too often. We agreed it''s too risky,, Sandra reminded him, her mind still racing with the possibilities their conversation had opened up. "Not at my ce," Michael countered smoothly. "We''ll meet somewhere else. I miss you, baby. I want a taste of you."

    Sandra let out a softugh, though her mind was already shifting gears. "I can''t meet tonight. I''m supposed to see Rayna."

    "Rayna? Why are you meeting with her?" Michael''s voice sharpened with suspicion.

    Sandra leaned back in her chair, twirling a strand of hair around her finger. "Our ss reunion is taking ce next weekend, and I n to humiliate Evelyn. To do that, I need Rayna on my side." Michael sighed in exasperation. "Sandra, you''re wasting time on petty revenge. Forget Evelyn. You should focus on what we''re doing. We''re closer to achieving our goal than ever. You should be focusing on Derek, not this childish vendetta."

    "I am focusing on Derek. That''s why I''m going to make sure hees to the reunion as my date. I want him to see why I am the better choice," Sandra said, her voiceced with determination.

    "If that''s your n, then make sure you use one stone to kill two birds. Ensure you get him to sleep with you that night," Michael said, his tone turning cold and calcting.

    "I should have sex with him?" Sandra asked, even though it was already her n to seduce Derek that night.

    "Yes. Once you have slept with him, you can im you''re pregnant. That will force him to marry you quickly. I know his mother will be excited at the prospect of a grandchild, and she wouldn''t want him to have one outside wedlock," Michael said, and Sandra''s smile faltered.

    "But I won''t be on my ovtion at the time," she pointed out.

    "Are you stupid, Sandra?" Michael''s voice snapped through the phone. "I''m not talking about actually having Derek''s child. I''ll be the one to get you pregnant, not him.

    You''ll just use the excuse to trap him. Don''t get any ideas about having Derek''s baby for real. If you are having anyone''s child, it''s mine."This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Sandra bit her lip, feeling a mix of anger and excitement at Michael''s controlling tone. "Fine. I''ll do as you say."

    "Good. I''ll text you the location tomorrow. Be ready," Michael said, his voice softening slightly. "And remember, Sandra, keep your eyes on the prize. Derek is the key to everything we want."

    Sandra hung up the phone, her mind buzzing with the n Michael hadid out for her.

    As for Michael, she had no ns to have his baby. Why would she want to have his child when she could have Derek''s baby for real?

    She would get pregnant for Derek and lie to Michael that the child was his. She would y along and focus on getting Derek to fall for her, and then - when the time was right - she''d take Evelyn down for good and cut Michael off, too.

 Chapter 117

    Evelyn stepped out of the third house she had inspected for the day, her eyes scanning the tree-lined estate as she took in the neighborhood. She sighed, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the choices and the responsibility of finding the perfect home for her family.

    Seeing the look on her face, the realtor could guess that she wasn''t impressed, but Evelyn''s phone buzzed in her pocket before she could say anything.

    Evelyn felt a flutter in her chest when she saw Derek''s name on the screen, and her lips curved in a wide smile as she answered.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Although they had spoken earlier that morning, the call had not been for long since she was getting Samantha ready for school then, and he had mostly talked to Samantha, not her.

    "Hello, D," she asked, her voice soft and warm as she stepped away from the realtor so she could speakfortably.

    "D, huh?" Derek asked with an amused smile, and Evelyn giggled.

    "You call me Eve, after all. And I''ve been meaning to call you that for a while now," she said, and he chuckled. "Well, you can call me whatever you want as long as it''s not the annoying Mr Stone you always used in the past," he said, and she giggled.

    "I can''t exactly call you Mr Stone anymore, can I?" She asked, and he chuckled.

    "You had better not. So, how''s your day going? Found any houses you like yet?" He asked curiously.

    Evelyn nced back at the house she''d just toured. "I''m still working on it. I''ve seen a few nice ces, but nothing that feels like home yet. I''m trying to be thorough, but I hope to find something soon." "Yeah. You should be thorough. I''m sure you''ll know the right one when you see it," Derek said encouragingly.

    "By the way, I never got the chance to ask you earlier when you called ¡ª when did you leavest night?" Evelyn asked curiously. Derekughed, a low,forting sound that seemed to spread warmth all over her. "I left after you fell asleep.

    You were out like a light."

    She chuckled, recalling how the night had ended. "Well, I slept like a baby. After what you did, how could I not sleep well?"

    "I''m d to know I''m good for something. If you''re having difficulties falling asleep in the future, invite me over, and I''ll knock you out," Derek joked, his tone light, and Evelynughed softly. "You''re good for a lot more than that," she assured him.

    "So, how did it go with your parents?" He asked, changing the subject.

    "Oh, it went well enough"" Evelyn replied with a giggle and went on to tell him about the drama with Sandra.

    "Well, she has managed to clear up any doubts your parents might have had regarding her innocence," Derek said with a chuckle.

    "Yeah. Enough about me. How did it go with your father?

    Did you go home as nned?" She asked, and Derekughed as he recalled his father''s excitement.

    "He was happy to hear about Samantha. He said he had always wanted a daughter, and now he has a granddaughter. He''s already looking forward to meeting her. I told him I''d arrange something soon, Derek said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Well, I''m sure we can arrange that," she said, d that his father was happy about it.

    "So, let''s arrange for it. I want him to meet you and Samantha soon," he said, and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat.

    Meeting Derek''s father felt like a significant step, one she wasn''t sure she was ready for, but there was no denying the excitement and warmth that bloomed inside her at the thought. "Why don''t you invite him over for lunch or dinner after we move? He can see the new ce and meet Samantha."

    "That''s a good idea," Derek agreed, though she could hear a touch of hesitation in his voice. "But we don''t know how long that''s going to take, and my dad - he''d rather not wait that long. He''s eager to see Samantha. Would you be okay with me taking her out this Saturday? Just the two of us?"

    Evelyn bit her lip, her thoughts racing. She trusted Derek, but the idea of him spending time alone with Samantha was still new. "So, you''re nning to spend the day only with Samantha? What about me?" Derek''sughter was deep, rolling through the phone and making her smile widen. "Are you Jealous?"

    Evelynughed softly. "Maybe just a little. But don''t worry, I''ve had her to myself for all these years. It''s only fair that you have her for a day. It might actually give me some time to focus on this house-hunting without any distractions."

    Derek was about to respond when there was a soft knock on his office door. His secretary stepped in quietly.

    "Mr. Stone, Ms Sandra is here to see you," she said, her tone polite.

    Derek''s brows lifted slightly. "Let her in," he instructed, then turned his attention back to Evelyn. "I''m sorry, Eve, but I have to go. Sandra just arrived. I''ll call you back after she leaves, alright?"

    Evelyn''s heart gave a slight pang at the mention of Sandra, but she pushed it aside. "Alright, D. I''ll talk to youter."

    As soon as he ended the call, Sandra walked into the office, her usual confidence tempered with a slightly sheepish look. Derek stood up to greet her, a wide smile on his face.

    "Hello, Sandra," he greeted her warmly, though there was an edge of curiosity in his voice.

    Sandra approached his desk, her expression a mix of guilt and yfulness. "Are you still mad at me for what I did?" she asked, her voice soft, almost apologetic.

    Derek tilted his head slightly, feigning ignorance. "What did you do?"

    She let out a small sigh, fidgeting with the strap of her handbag. "For involving your mother the other day," she confessed, her eyes briefly dropping to the floor. "I thought you might be upset." Derek smiled, and he shook his head. "That''s in the past, Sandra. I told Michael to let you know I wasn''t mad.

    Didn''t he do that?"

    Sandra''s lips formed a slight pout, a tactic that might have worked on someone else but only made Derek smirk. "If you weren''t mad, why haven''t you called me since then?"

    Derek chuckled and leaned back in his chair. "I''ve been busy, Sandra. Besides, you didn''t call me either. But let''s forget all of that. To make it up to you, how about we go out for lunch today?" Sandra''s face lit up at the suggestion, her earlier guilt forgotten. "I''d love that," she said, her tone brightening.

    Before they could continue, Derek''s phone buzzed again, this time with a notification from the team monitoring Michael''s phone. It was a recorded message. He couldn''t hide the smirk that crossed his face as he saw it.

    He knew the message was important and that it was most likely a conversation between Michael and Sandra.

    Not wanting to leave the office with Sandra without listening to it first and finding out if it had anything to do with the reason he was in his office, Derek held up a hand.

    "Give me a minute, Sandra. I need to take a message from an important client," he said as he connected his earbuds and yed the message.

    His eyes narrowed slightly as he listened, and the smirk on his face deepened as he heard the conversation, confirming what he had suspected.

    Well, this was going to be the first of many pieces of evidence against them, Derek reasoned.

    When the recording ended, he quicklyposed himself and turned back to Sandra, who was watching him curiously.

    "Ready for lunch?" he asked with a wide smile, his voice casual as if nothing had happened.

    Oblivious to the significance of the message he''d just heard, Sandra nodded eagerly. "Yes. Let''s go."

    As they left his office together, Derek''s mind was already spinning with ns. The recorded message had given him a crucial piece of the puzzle, and he was determined to use it to his advantage. But for now, he would enjoy lunch with Sandra, y his part, and keep his cards close to his chest.

    As they walked into the elevator, Derek''s thoughts lingered on the phone call with Evelyn, herughter still echoing in his ears. There were so many moving pieces in his life right now, but one thing was sure - he wouldn''t let anything, or anyone,e between him and the life he wanted with Evelyn and Samantha. Not his mother, not Sandra, and certainly not Michael.

 Chapter 118

    As the Elevator door closed behind Derek and Sandra, Derek casually leaned against the wall, his mind already working on the next steps.

    He slipped his phone out of his pocket and quicklyposed a text to Evelyn: [Taking Sandra to lunch. I just sent you something important. Check it out when you can.] With a swift motion, he forwarded the recorded conversation to Evelyn, ensuring she had all the evidence he had just acquired since it had everything to do with the both of them. As he slipped his phone back into his pocket, he turned his attention to Sandra. "Did youe in your car?" he asked, his tone light as if the question was merely a formality. "Yes, I drove. Why?" She asked with a cheerful smile.

    Although the day had started out in such a shitty way, she was happy being with Derek this way and having him take her to lunch.

    "I was thinking it might be easier if we took separate cars, so you don''t have toe back just to pick up yours.

    That way, you can go straight to your office," he exined, not wanting to endure herpany in the drive to the restaurant.

    Sandra''s expression faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered, her voice taking on a yful lilt. "Oh, Derek, you''re such a gentleman. But I really don''t mind. I enjoy spending time with you. We can go together, and I''ll juste back here with you afterward."

    Derek''s smile was polite, hiding the mild irritation he felt at her insistence. Before he could respond, the elevator dinged softly, signaling their arrival on the ground floor.

    The doors slid open, revealing the busy lobby of the office building.

    As they stepped out, their eyes immediatelynded on Michael, who was approaching the elevator. The surprise on Michael''s face was almostical as he took in the sight of Sandra by Derek''s side. "Sandra," Michael greeted, his toneced with mild confusion. "What are you doing here?"All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    Sandra''s heart skipped a beat. She had acted without informing Michael. "I just came to make sure Derek wasn''t mad at me anymore. You know how I hate it when we''re not on good terms." Michael''s eyes flicked to Derek, who was watching the exchange with a neutral expression. "My feelings are hurt.

    You cared about Derek so much and didn''t even stop by to say hello to me?" Michael asked, clearly taken aback by Sandra''s boldness.

    Sandra shook her head, her hair bouncing slightly with the motion. "I nned toe over and say hello to you when wee back from lunch," Sandra assured him with a sugary, sweet smile. Derek decided to step in before the tension could escte. "We''re heading out for lunch, Mike. Care to join us?" His offer was casual, but all he wanted was to see how Michael would react. Michael shook his head, a tight smile on his lips. "Thanks, but I''ve already got ns. You two enjoy yourselves."

    Derek nodded, watching as Michael walked away, his posture stiff. As soon as he was out of sight, Derek turned to Sandra, his voice light. "Shall we?"

    Sandra beamed up at him, "Let''s go."

    She was not going to worry about Michael. If Derek loved her, that was all she needed. She knew that Michael would never expose her. Not when doing that would mean exposing himself since they were partners in crime.

    They walked out of the building together, the sun shining brightly overhead as they made their way to Derek''s car.

    The drive to the restaurant was filled with small talk- Sandra prattling on about work while Derek responded with polite, if distant, interest.

    Now that he was in a rtionship with Evelyn, he found it even more difficult to pretend to like Sandra as he had done thest time. He wasn''t even in the mood to hear her talk.

    Once they arrived at the restaurant, a chic ce that Sandra had suggested, they were promptly seated at a secluded table.

    As they settled into their seats, Sandra wasted no time, her tone taking on a slightly usatory edge. "So, I was meaning to ask you. Why did you let Evelyn answer your call the other day?" Derek raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the sudden change in her demeanor. "I was driving," he exined calmly. I don''t take calls when I drive, so I asked her to answer the phone. I didn''t know it was you."

    Sandra pouted, her lips forming a slight frown. "You could have called me back instead of letting her handle it."

    Derek suppressed a sigh, keeping his tone even. "I didn''t think it was a big deal. But if it upset you, I apologize."

    Sandra seemed to ept his apology, but her expression remained wary. "Is it true that you''re still doing the interview? Why are you so determined to have Evelyn do it? I could easily handle it, you know." Derek leaned back in his chair, taking a moment before responding. "Evelyn and I had an agreement. Besides, I prefer to keep my private life and work separate."

    Sandra''s pout deepened, and there was a flicker of something darker in her eyes. "I''m just worried that Evelyn will try to seduce you under the guise of the interview." Derek kept his expression neutral. "Didn''t Michael tell you what I told him?"

    Sandra''s frown deepened in confusion. "What did you tell Michael?"

    Derek leaned forward slightly, his voice lowering. "I told him that I was in love with Evelyn and that I wanted her to do the interview because I wanted to get to know her. But after seeing how she treated you and how she''s been acting, I realized she''s not suitable for me. I''ve moved on from her, Sandra. That''s why I''m interested in you now." Sandra''s eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and pleasure washing over her features. "Is that true?" she asked, her voice almost breathless. Derek nodded, his expression sincere. "Yes. So, there''s no need to worry about Evelyn anymore. She''s not a threat."

    Sandra looked partially mollified, but there was still a hint of bitterness in her at the thought that Derek had ever liked Evelyn in the first ce. She reached into her bag and pulled out her phone. "Can we take a picture together?" she asked with a smile, her tone almost coaxing. Derek smiled tightly, shaking his head as he wondered what she was thinking now. "You know I''m not a fan of taking pictures."

    Sandra pouted again but quickly shrugged it off. "Okay, I understand."

    The waiter arrived then, interrupting the moment as he took their orders. Once the waiter left, Sandra leaned forward, her lips curling in a scowl. "I actually came to see you because I was sort of upset.

    Evelyn came over to the house this morning. She caused some problems for me at home," Sandra said, and Derek''s eyebrows lifted in interest. "What kind of problems?" He asked, wanting to hear what she would say.

    Sandra sighed dramatically, her expression one of false innocence. "She lied against me and tried to turn our parents against me. She has always been jealous of me, but it''s getting worse now that you''re in the picture. I''m worried she will try to seduce you, Derek. She even told me she was going to get you at all costs because you''re wealthy."

    Derek''s eyes narrowed slightly, but his tone remained calm. "I find that hard to believe, Sandra. If Evelyn wanted me for my money, she would have had me a long time ago. And I think you should stop talking to me about Evelyn- it''s unattractive."

    Surprised flickered in her eyes at his harsh words, but she quickly shed him a sweet smile. "You''re right, Derek. I shouldn''t let her get to me."

    "Yeah. You shouldn''t. You should focus on talking about yourself to me instead of filling my head with Evelyn," Derek said, and she nodded.

    "By the way, I was wondering... will you be able to attend my ss reunion with me next weekend?" She asked, changing the subject.

    Derek hesitated, but when he remembered the details of the recording he had just forwarded to Evelyn, he nodded. "With you? Of course, I''ll be there," he said with a carefully calcted smile.

    He needed to make sure Evelyn was safe, and if attending this reunion was the way to do it, then he would y along. He had no intention of letting her get away with whatever she was nning for Evelyn. Sandra''s eyes lit up with excitement, and she squeezed his hand across the table.

    ? "I''m so happy you''reing,

    Derek. It''s going to be a wonderful night."

    As lunch progressed, she chattered on about the reunion.

    Derek yed his role perfectly, nodding and smiling at all the right moments. But beneath the surface, his mind was racing, and he was already strategizing his next move.

    He needed to be ready for whatever Sandra had in store for him, too, since he knew she nned to make him sleep with her and im she was pregnant.

    But for now, he would let Sandra believe she was winning. After all, the best way to defeat an opponent was to make them think they were in control, and he was a master at that game.

    On the other hand, Sandra was blissfully unaware, lost in her fantasies of winning Derek overpletely. She had no idea that Derek was only ying along to protect the woman he truly cared about ¡ª Evelyn.

 Chapter 119

    Lunch with Derek had gone better than Sandra expected. She could feel his interest in her growing, and that gave her a smug sense of victory. Evelyn was nothingpared to her, and she was going to prove that to everyone. With thoughts of her sessful lunch still swirling in her head, Sandra pushed open the door to Michael''s office.o The sight that greeted her brought her to a sudden, jolting stop.

    Michael was leaning against his desk, his hands buried in his secretary''s hair as they kissed,pletely unaware of her presence.

    The shock held her frozen in ce for a moment, and then her irritation surged. "What the hell is going on here?" Sandra demanded, and his secretary jerked back, her face paling slightly as she saw Sandra standing in the doorway. Michael straightened immediately, brushing down his suit as if to restore some semnce of professionalism "Sandra" he started, his voice

    smooth, but there was an edge of irritation underneath it. "I see you''re back from your date."

    The secretary, flustered and red-faced, hastily gathered her things and scurried out of the office, avoiding Sandra''s furious re.

    Once they were alone, Sandra''s hands went to her hips, her eyes zing with disbelief. "What do you think you''re doing with your Secretary?"

    Michael sat at the edge of his desk, his expression darkening as he squared off with her. "That''s riching from you," he sneered. "I should be asking you the same thing. Why were you with Derek, and why didn''t you tell me about it first?" Sandra''s eyes narrowed, her lips curling into a scornful smile. "Oh, so that''s what this is about? You''re upset that I went to lunch with Derek?" She took a step closer, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You''re the one who told me to focus on him, remember? I told you I wanted him to apany me to the reunion, didn''t I? How else was I supposed to make that happen if I don''t clear the air with him and spend time with him?"

    Michael''s jaw clenched, "We had an agreement. You''re supposed to tell me about every move you make. Were you going to tell me about your lunch had I not seen the both of you together?"

    Sandra snorted, "Don''t think I''m going to let you make this about me. I''m not the one who was making out with his secretary. Tell me what I want to know, Michael. Why the hell were you making out with your secretary? Or should I even bother asking? Perhaps this isn''t the first time, and you''ve been doing it all along.

    He met her gaze head-on, his eyes cold. "I told you I wanted you. When was thest time we had sex? You know how sexually active I am. I needed to relieve myself. I asked to meet tonight, and you came up with some silly excuse about meeting Rayna. What did you expect? That I''d wait forever?"

    Sandra''sugh was bitter, disbelief clouding her features. "Relieve yourself? Are you kidding me, Michael? Is that supposed to be your excuse?" She shook her head, disgust evident in her expression. "Well, we didn''t go that far before you came in. Let''s meet this night..."

    "I can''t believe you. Do you really think I''m just going to go along with this? That after what I just saw, I''ll meet you again?"

    Michael rose from the desk, and his hand shot out, grabbing her arm roughly. His grip was tight enough to hurt, his voice low and menacing. "You''ll meet me when I tell you to meet me, Sandra. Don''t push me.

    I''m not going to tolerate any silly attitudes from you."

    Sandra''s eyes zed with fury. "I thought you had better taste, Michael," she spat, her voice dripping with disdain. "But clearly, you don''t. I''m disappointed in you," she said as she tried to wrench her arm free, but Michael''s grip was tight.

    Michael''s expression didn''t falter. If anything, her defiance seemed to amuse him. "And you think I''m not disappointed in you? Do you really think your attitude since your first date with Derek has gone unnoticed by me? Don''t get any ideas about double-crossing me, Sandra. I know how your mind works. If I see one wrong move- if I even suspect that you''re nning something behind my back- everything we''ve built will be over in an instant. Do you understand me?"

    Sandra red at him, her chest heaving as she tried to contain the rage coursing through her. "You don''t get to threaten me, Michael."

    "Oh, I''m not threatening," he said, his voice deadly calm as he grabbed her neck with his other hand. "I''m warning you, Sandra. Meet me at Club Edge tonight at seven..."

    "I told you I''m meeting with Rayna. We are meeting at 7PM," Sandra cut in with an angry hiss.

    "Then push back your meeting with her or cancel it.

    What I want is more important than whatever silly ns you have for the reunion. You can choose to meet with her after I''m done with you. I don''t care. If you don''t show up tonight, consider our arrangement off. And I''ll proceed with my ns without you. You''ll be cut off from everything." Sandra''s mouth tightened into a thin line, "Since when have you be so overbearing?"

    Michael stepped closer, his presence overwhelming as he towered over her. "Since you started giving me a reason to doubt you. Seven o''clock," he repeated as he let go of her neck and arm. "Don''t make me regret trusting you. And you better put on something sexy."

    With onest icy look, Sandra turned on her heel and stormed out of the office, fury bubbling just beneath the surface.

    As she stepped into the elevator, her hands clenched into fists, her thoughts shifted back to Derek. She knew that she had to y this carefully, now more than ever.

    One thing was clear - Michael wasn''t ying games anymore. And neither was she.

    If Michael suspected even for a second that she was trying to outmaneuver him, he wouldn''t hesitate to ruin everything. She wouldn''t let him do that.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    Her churned as she thought of meeting him tonight, and her mind raced with ns of her own. If Michael thought she was going to let him control her or ruin her ns, he had another thinging.

    Once she got into her car, she took out her phone and sent Rayna a text. [Let''s meet at Club Edge by 7 PM.

    You can ask Evelyn to join us, so we can trash out our differences. But don''t let her know I''ll be there, or she might not show up.]

    After sending the text, Sandra tapped her fingers on the steering wheel, and her lips curled with a smirk.

    She was going to take care of both Evelyn and Michael.

 Chapter 120

    "Sandra wants me to show up at the club?" Evelyn asked Rayna over the phone as she walked into her apartment, "Why?"

    "I have no idea what she is thinking. When she called the first time, she said she didn''t want you to join us, but now she sent a text asking if I could invite you but not tell you she would be there," Rayna exined. "I''m not sure I should go. What do you think?" Evelyn asked as she kicked off her shoes and headed for her bedroom. She

    She was exhausted from the round of house hunting she had been doing all day, and all she wanted was to freshen up and then confide in Maya about everything, as she had promised. Rayna sighed. "I don''t know, Evie. I know that as long as I''m there, I won''t let any harme to you, but I''d be morefortable if I knew what she was up to. Why don''t you talk to Derek? Tell him what''s up, and if he thinks you should go, then let''s do that," Rayna suggested. Evelyn frowned as she sat on the edge of her bed.

    "Alright. Let me do that. Ill get back to you after I speak to him. "Evelyn said before hanging up the call.

    After hanging up the call she quickly typed a text, if you''re not too busy, can you call me?),

    she sent the text, she rose and undressed. Before she could make it to the bathroom, her phone rang. She picked it up and received the call when she saw that it was Derek.

    "Is everything okay?" Derek asked, his voice tinged with

    concern.

    "Yeah. I just need your opinion on something," Evelyn said and then proceeded to tell him about Sandra''s text to Rayna.

    Derek paused for a moment as he considered it, and then he sighed, "I think I might have to bug Michael''s office and his apartment if possible. I don''t think hacking his sim is enough." "Why?" Evelyn asked, wondering what that had to do with what she had told him.

    "She met with Michael in his office after we had lunch. I have a feeling that she came up with the idea of inviting you to the club after her meeting with Michael. I need to know what they talk about in person and not just over the phone," Derek exined, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Yeah. That makes sense. But for now, what do you think I should do? Should I go? I mean, I don''t have to go, right? I can easily tell Rayna to tell her that I declined her invitation and suggested we hang out some other ce and not at that club, right?" Evelyn asked, and Derek considered it for a moment.

    "Yes. Do that. Ask Rayna to do that, and let''s see what Sandra will say. That way, we will know if she just wants to see you and do something to embarrass you or if her n is restricted to the club," Derek suggested.

    "Alright. I''ll call you back after I''ve done that. I''m sorry to bother.."

    "You''re not bothering me. You could never bother me.

    And just so you know, I want you to bother me," he said, and she giggled.

    "I''ll call you after I hear from her," Evelyn said before hanging up.

    She had a smile on her face as she called Rayna and then ryed the information to her. After the phone call with Rayna, she went in to freshen up while she waited to hear back from Rayna.

    Away from there, after the phone call with

    Evelyn, Rayna dialed

    Sandra''s line, and it didn''t take long before Sandra received the call. "Hey, Ray! Did you receive my text?" Sandra asked, and Rayna rolled her eyes.

    "I did. That''s why I''m calling. I just got off the phone with Evelyn, and she doesn''t want to meet at Club Edge. She''s suggesting we meet elsewhere," Rayna said, and Sandra scowled. "Can''t you convince her to change her mind?" Sandra asked, wondering why Evelyn was being unnecessarily stubborn. "Do we

    Do have to meet at the club? I mean, it''s not like we are there to party. I don''t think that is exactly an ideal venue to talk. We can..." "Michael will be there too. I want to do my best to reconcile them. Michael is still crazy about Evelyn. I''m hoping that I can help them reconcile, and then Evelyn will leave Derek alone, and things can go back to how they used to be. I need your help to make that happen," Sandra said, Rayna''s brows pulled together.

    and

    "So, Michael will be joining us?" She asked, wondering just what Sandra was up to.

    "Yes. But you can''t tell Evelyn that he will be there. I''m not telling Michael about it, either. I''m going to get a room, and we will lock them inside so they can talk things out. What do you think?" Sandra asked, and Raynaughed softly, amused by Sandra''s crazy n. If she didn''t know about the state of things between Evelyn and Sandra, and she didn''t know about what had truly happened between Evelyn and Michael, she would most likely have fallen for Sandra''s bullshit.

    "I think it''s a brilliant n. And I''m surprised you care about Evelyn so much, and you''re still going through all this stress for her sake, despite all she has done," Rayna said, and Sandra sighed. "She''s my sister. And I love her her regardless of her ws.

    What else can I do?" Sandra asked, and Rayna resisted the urge to snort.

    "I will try to convince Evelyn once again so we meet at Club Edge," Rayna promised.

    "Thanks, Ray. I wonder what I will do without you," Sandra said before hanging up.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Done with the call, Rayna called Evelyn back, "You won''t believe what that snake ns to do," Rayna said the moment the call connected.

    "What is she up to?" Evelyn asked, feeling anxious.

    "She wants to lock you up in a room with Michael so that you both can resolve things," Rayna said, and Evelyn frowned.

    "That doesn''t make sense. She knows very well that I won''t resolve things with Michael since I know they are sexually involved," Evelyn said, and Rayna pursed her lips as she narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. "You have a point. So, what do you think she is up to then?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn sighed deeply.

    "Perhaps they n to set me up. I think it''s more than just being alone with Michael," Evelyn said, and Rayna sighed.

    "She said Michael doesn''t know you''reing," Rayna said, but Evelyn shook her head.

    "You should know that we can''t believe anything she says.

    Sandra is a liar. They probably nned this together. You know what? I''m going toe. I want to see what they are up to. Tell her I agreed to join you," Evelyn said, and Rayna raised a brow.

    "Are you sure you should do that?" Rayna asked, feeling ufortable with the idea.

    "Yeah. If I don''t agree, she will feel you''re not useful to her, and she might not want to involve you or share her ns with you next time. I will let Derek know that I will do it. That way, we will find a way to counter whatever n they have," Evelyn said with a note of finality in her tone, and Rayna nodded. "Alright then. Let''s do that. I''ll let her know you''reing. See you tonight," Rayna said before hanging up.

 Chapter 121

    As the clock ticked closer to 7 PM, Evelyn felt the weight of the impending evening settling heavily in her chest.

    Her mind raced, unable to settle on any single thought for more than a few seconds. She kept wondering what kind of trap she was about to walk into.

    It didn''t help that her stomach churned with anxiety, the kind that crept up on her as soon as she allowed herself a quiet moment. She nced at her reflection in her bedroom mirror. The fitted ck jumpsuit she had chosen clung to her curves, making her feel confident on the outside, even as her insides were a whirlwind of nerves. Rayna was supposed to pick her up, and they would head to the club together. But the uncertainty of whaty ahead still gnawed at her. Despite Derek''s assurance that she''d be safe, she had been overthinking everything. He''d even promised wait outside the club in in case things went south. The thought of him parked nearby, ready to intervene, did bring a small measure offort.

    But it didn''t erase e the knot of fear tightening in her gut.

    But

    What was Sandra and Michael up to? And why now?

    At exactly 6:30 PM, the doorbell rang. The sharp sound startled her, and she instinctively reached for her purse, quickly gathering herself as she moved toward the door. Evelyn braced herself, expecting to see Rayna''s cheerful face, but when she opened the door, she blinked in surprise.

    There,

    "You

    with his hands tucked i

    I in his

    pockets, was Derek. His familiar grin stretched across his face. "Hey, gorgeous," he greeted.

    Standing casually with " she said, her tone Shit from anxious to pleasantly surprised as she opened the door wider to let him in.

    dn''t say you wereing," she

    "I didn''t want to spoil the surprise," he replied with a teasing wink, stepping inside with an easy confidence. over!

    He closed the door behind I

    him, his eyes sweeping

    her, lingering appreciatively. "You look absolutely stunning."

    Evelyn''s lips parted into a soft smile, and a blush warmed her cheeks under his gaze. "Thanks," she murmured, thefort of his presence already helping to ease some of her jitters. Derek stepped closer, cing his hands firmly on her shoulders. "Anxious?" he asked, his voice low and his touch calming.

    She exhaled a shaky breath. "Very anxious, she admitted.

    Without another word, he lea

    he leaned in and kissed her deeply, his lips soft yet firm against hers. The kiss was slow, intentional, and filled with an emotion that seemed to melt away the anxiety wing at her. r handsing up to his chest as she sank into the moment.

    Evelyn responded immediately, he felt her heart racing for an entirely different reason. "What was that for?" she asked, her voice breathy with a hint of amusement. When he finally pulled I away, Evelyn felt

    "That""" Derek erek said, his lips still close to hers, "was to make your stomach flutter for something other than anxiety."

    She chuckled,

    and almost relieved.

    She kled, the sound light and

    "Mission aplished," she teased back, feeling a little more at ease.

    "Now I can tell you that I''m jealous. I can''t believe you''re dressed this way for Sandra when you''ve never dressed this way for me," he said, and Evelynughed softly. "It''s not my fault. It''s the circumstance behind our rtionship," she pointed out.

    "Screw those circumstances. I don''t care about them.

    Let''s go on a date some e time soon," he said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Alright. Let''s do Let''s do that, Evelyn said with

    Derek

    I

    with a nou nod.

    miled warmly before asking, "Where''s my baby?"

    Evelyn j jerked her her head in in the direction of her daughter''s bedroom. "She''s working on her assignments. She should be done soon."

    Derek nodded and took her hand, guiding her toward the living room, where they both sat down on the couch. The soft cushions seemed to embrace her, but the meeting with Sandra still weighed heavily on her mind.

    "I looked into Club Edge," Derek began, his tone bing more serious. "It''s part of the Diamond Edge Hotel and has a reputation. Not a bad one, but still, it''s high-profile."

    Evelyn nodded, already knowing this, but she appreciated that Derek had done his homework. "Yeah, I know. We used to hang out there a lot in the past," she said, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the edge of her purse.

    Derek leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees as he continued. "Michael booked one of the suites there a little while ago."

    She frowned at that. "A suite? What for?"

    HeThis text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    shrugged, though his expression was taut with thought. "I''m not sure yet. But I think whatever Sandra''s nning involves that suite. If I had to guess, they''re probably trying to set you up with Michael somehow, but I can''t figure out why Michael would do that. It doesn''t make any sense."

    Evelyn''s mind raced, trying to make sense of it. "Do you think maybe this is all Sandra''s idea, and Michael doesn''t know what she''s up to?"

    "It''s possible," Derek admitted, leaning back slightly. "But why do you think so?" He asked curiously.

    "Because if Michael had a bad n, he wouldn''t reserve a suite in his name, would he?" She asked, and Derek sighed.

    "But then again, why would Sandra go against Michael''s interests? They''ve been working together all these years," Evelyn said thoughtfully.

    "There''s something more to this. Whatever it is, you need to be extra careful tonight. No drinking unless you''ve seen it poured yourself, and no epting drinks from anyone, especially Sandra," Derek said. She sighed deeply, already exhausted by the thought of navigating the minefield she was about to walk into.

    "Li

    want this whole to be over soon."

    Before Derek could respond, a high-pitched squeal of delight cut through the room. "Daddy!"

    Samantha came bounding out of her room, her excitement bursting like sunlight into the tense atmosphere. Derek turned just in time to catch her mid-jump, sweeping her up into his arms. He immediately started peppering her face with yful kisses, making her squeal and squirm in his arms as she giggled uncontrobly.

    Watching them, Evelyn felt her heart soften, the tension in her chest loosening just a little. For a brief moment, she allowed herself to just enjoy the sight of Derek with Samantha, the easy love between them.

    Then the doorbell I rang again.

    and her pulse quickened, anxiety rushing back in a torrent. Rayna was here.

    Her stomach flipped on shift, Derek''s hand found hers.

    As if sensing

    her

    He squeezed it firmly, his gaze steady as he met her eyes.

    "Hey, don''t worry. I''ll be right there if anything goes wrong. No harm wille to you," he said softly, his voice full of conviction.

    Evelyn offered him a shaky smile, nodding. "I know." But even as she said it, her heart raced at the thought of walking into the unknown.

    "I should get going," she said, rising to her feet.

    Derek stood with her, his protective presence calming her nerves as he walked her to the door, where Rayna''s cheerful voice could already be heard from the other side.

    Evelyn took a deep breath before she reached for the handle. It was time.

    With Derek''s promise echoing in her mind, she opened the door and stepped out, ready to face whatever Sandra had in store.

 Chapter 122

    going to ensure that everything fell into ce.

    As Michael sped down the dimly lit highway towards Club Edge, his mind swirled with thoughts of his n for Sandra. He tapped his finger impatiently against the wheel, a smirk tugging at his lips as he imagined the night ahead. He had made careful ns, and he was With a nce at his dashboard clock, he realized it was time to check on Sandra. He reached for his phone, pressing her number on speed dial. The phone rang twice before Sandra''s sultry voice came through the speaker. "Hey, darling," she answered.

    "Are you on your way?" Michael''s voice was firm.

    Sandra let out a softugh. "Of course. I''m already here, waiting for you, as usual. Did you really think I wouldn''t show up?"

    Michael chuckled, pleased. "Good girl. Just rx; I promise you''ll have a good time tonight. You always do, don''t you?"

    "I''m counting on it," Sandra purred, her voice dripping with the kind of mischief that Michael found irresistible.

    "By the way, I got your text. Instead of asking me to meet with you at Club Edge, why didn''t you just say we were meeting at the Diamond Edge Hotel?" Sandra asked, and Michael chuckled.

    "I thought we should hang out at the club and loosen up before going to the suite. We both know how horny you feel after partying," he said, and she rolled her eyes.

    "Well, I''m horny enough already. Can we skip the partying and meet at the suite? I really want to meet Rayna tonight. You know tomorrow is a work day," Sandra said, and Michael shrugged. "Alright. Since you''re there already, you can go on up to the suite. I''ll be there soon."

    "Perfect. I''ll grab us some wine and get the party started while I wait," she replied excitedly.

    "Do that," he said, smirking. "I''m looking forward to seeing you."

    He ended the call with a satisfied nod. Hearing them one would think it were just another night between lovers, but Michael knew this evening was far from ordinary. A n had been set in motion, and tonight was the night he would follow through with it. Sandra would make everything easy for him, as she always did.

    Away from there, after the phone call with Michael, Sandra stepped out of her car in the club''s parking lot and smoothed her dress-a tight, short ck number - before making her way inside.

    She headed directly to the reception, and after getting the keycard to the suite, she requested that a bottle of Cabe Sauvignon be sent immediately after her.

    The suite Michael had booked was on the club''s top floor, part of the hotel that was reserved for VIPs.

    When she reached the door to the suite, she swiped the keycard and pushed it open, stepping into the luxurious space.

    No sooner had she walked into the suite before the doorbell rang, and the wine was delivered to her.

    "Michael''s favorite," she murmured to herself with a smirk after the waiter left.

    She walked over to the minibar, grabbed two sses, and poured herself a generous serving of wine. As the rich aroma filled her senses, her phone buzzed, and she took it out from her clutch to see a text from Rayna. I''m on my way with Evelyn.]

    Sandra smirked as she replied. [Good. I''ll join you as soon as I can. Keep her rxed.]

    She slipped her phone back into her clutch, and a pleased chuckle escaped her lips as she tipped the ss to her lips and took a slow, deliberate sip.

    When her eyes fell on the clock, and she saw that Michael would likely arrive soon, she reached into her purse and pulled out a small vial of sleeping medication.

    Her fingers were steady as she uncapped it. She nced at the bottle of wine and gave it a quick swirl before pouring half the contents of the vial inside. The liquid dissolved instantly, leaving no trace behind. Smiling, she returned the vial to her purse and set the bottle of wine down on the table. "Now we wait," she murmured, crossing the room to sit on the plush edge of the bed. She checked her phone again, saw Rayna''sst message, and smiled. Tonight was going to be perfect.

    Five minutester, a knock came at the door. Sandra rose and smoothed her dress once more before striding over to open it.

    She smiled when she saw Michael standing there, his usual confident grin stered on his face.

    "Well, well," he said, stepping inside. I thought you were going to be difficult tonight. I''m d to see you''re still my girl."

    Sandraughed as she embraced him, her lips grazing his neck as she stretched on tiptoe to kiss him. "I''ll always be your girl, Mike. Sorry for the attitudetely... Evelyn''s return has been getting under my skin more than I thought possible," she said, her hands resting on his chest as she looked up at him through hershes. Michael waved a dismissive hand. "Forget about Evelyn.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Tonight, it''s just you and me." He strolled towards the table where the wine sat, "You got my favorite wine," he said with a grin as he picked up the bottle.

    "Yeah. That''s my way of apologizing for what happened earlier. We are a team, Mike. I don''t like how things are going between ustely," she said with a pout as she stood in front of him.

    Michael smiled as he watched her toy with the button of his shirt, "I forgive you."

    "Shall we drink to it then?" She asked with a smile as she went to pick up her empty ss. She poured some wine into both their sses and took a little sip from hers before handing him his ss.

    "I think I need to empty my dder." She gestured towards the bathroom before setting down her ss and disappearing inside.

    As soon as the door clicked shut, Michael''s eyes darkened with intent as he took the opportunity to check on the camera he had installed in the room a while ago to make sure it was on and positioned to capture everything that would happen once Sandra returned. He had his own ns tonight-ns she didn''t need to know about.

    He was not going to change them simply because she had apologized for her attitude. He still needed something he could hold over her.

    Satisfied with the setup, he settled on the bed and took a sip from his ss. The taste was rich and familiar, but he didn''t notice the faint bitterness creeping in from the medication Sandra hadced it with. Inside the bathroom, Sandra waited patiently, listening to his movement around the room. She wanted him to drink from the ss and for the effect to start setting in slowly before she returned.

    She leaned against the marble sink, a smirk ying on her lips as she watched the seconds tick by on her watch.

    When she was sure enough time had passed, she took a deep breath and stepped out of the bathroom.

    Michael sat on the bed, winess in hand, his posture rxed as he leaned back against the headboard. His eyes followed her as she walked towards him, his grin widening. "You took your time," he teased.

    Sandra smiled as she sauntered over to stand before the bed. "I had to clean up," She said with a wink.

    Michael''s eyes gleamed with anticipation as he raised his ss to her. "Why don''t you give me a little show, huh?

    I''ve missed you," he said as he took a long sip.

    Sandra''s lips curled into a yful smile. "Anything for you," she said sweetly, knowing exactly what he wanted.

    She began to undress, slowly slipping the straps of her dress off her shoulders, her movements deliberate and seductive.

    She didn''t mind stripping since that meant she was bidding her time until the effect of the medication set in.

    Michael watched, his eyes following every inch of skin she revealed, but as Sandra continued, she noticed his eyelids growing heavy. His once sharp gaze began to dull, and he began to yawn frequently.

    She smiled when his head lolled slightly to the side. By the time she had unsped her bra and tossed it onto the floor, Michael''s grip on his winess loosened, and it slipped from his hand, spilling its contents onto the sheets. Sandra smiled to herself, watching as he struggled to keep his eyes open. "Sleep tight, Michael," she whispered as his body slumped against the pillows,pletely unconscious.

    With a satisfied grin, she picked up her clothes and slipped them back on, her heart racing with triumph.

    Now, all she had to do was make sure everything else went ording to n.

 Chapter 123

    Evelyn leaned back against the bar stool, swaying her body to the pulsing bass of the club''s music, which was thrumming through her as she watched Rayna, who was casually sipping her cocktail. "You know what I''ve been thinking since I saw you and Derek earlier?" Rayna asked as she set down her ss.

    "Am I supposed to know?" Evelyn asked, amused by the mischievous glint she could see in Rayna''s eyes.

    "I''m thinking that if things don''t work out between ET and me, I''m just going to drive out there recklessly and bang the first guy my car crashes into," she said with a grin, and Evelynughed out loud. "And if it''s a married man?" Evelyn joked.

    "Well, I''ll bash the next car I see until I get lucky," she said, and Evelynughed

    "Have you considered the fact that you could run into a serial rapist or killer?"Evelyn asked as she raised her drink to her lips.

    "I''ll take my chances like you took yours. Imagine how you snagged the best man in one moment of recklessness," Rayna said, and Evelynughed.

    Before Evelyn could respond, her phone buzzed in her purse. When she took it out and nced at the screen, she saw Derek''s name shing. She smiled as she showed Rayna the screen. "Hey, D," she answered and grinned when Rayna mimicked her.

    "It seems like you were right," Derek''s voice came through.

    Evelyn raised a brow. "Right about what?"

    "I just confirmed that Michael booked the suite for them both, and from what I can gather, Sandra''s meeting him first. I''m not sure he knows that Sandra invited you over," Derek said, and Evelyn paused, letting the words sink in. "Sandra''s ying him?" Evelyn asked, her brow furrowed in thought.

    "I think it''s something like that. Keep your guard up," Derek warned.

    Evelyn nodded to herself. "Thanks for letting me know.

    I''ll handle things on my end."

    After hanging up, Evelyn turned to Rayna, who was staring at her with curious eyes. "Sandra''s running her own game," Evelyn said, and she told Rayna what Derek had just told her. Rayna raised an eyebrow, swirling the ice in her ss. "I wonder what she''s up to this time."

    Evelyn rolled her eyes and took a long sip of her drink.

    "Honestly, I don''t care. Let''s just enjoy the night until she shows up. The less I think about her, the better."

    Rayna chuckled, leaning back on her stool. Just as she was about to speak, her phone buzzed on the counter.

    ncing at the screen, a grin spread across her face. "It''s ET," she said, giggling.

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, amused. "What''s he saying now?"

    Rayna read the message aloud, still smiling.

    [Congrattions, you made it to the top 5.]

    Evelynughed, shaking her head. "Either he has a really good sense of humor, or he''s full of himself."

    "Probably both"" Rayna said with a grin as she typed back a response.

    [Yay! Let me know when I make it to the top 3.]

    Before Rayna could set down her phone, her phone buzzed again, but with a phone call this time. She nced at the screen and scowled. "It''s the snake." Evelyn straightened in her seat, her eyes narrowing.

    "Perfect timing."

    Rayna answered the call, her voice smooth. "Hey, Sandy!

    Where are you?"

    Sandra''s voice crackled through the phone,ced with impatience. "I''m at the entrance of the club. Where are you two?"

    Rayna gave her their location, then hung up, slipping her phone back into her purse. "She''ll be here soon," she said, sighing.

    Evelyn raised her ss, taking another sip to calm her nerves. "Great. Let''s put on the best show of our lives."

    A few momentster, Sandra appeared, striding through the crowd with purpose as her eyes scanned the room until she spotted Rayna and Evelyn.

    As she approached, Evelyn stered on a surprised expression, setting her ss down a little too hard on the bar.

    "What the hell is she doing here?" Evelyn snapped, her voice sharp, turning to Rayna with mock anger.

    Rayna widened her eyes and reached out, cing a calming hand on Evelyn''s arm. "Evie, calm down, please.

    I just thought -"

    "Sandra, really?" Evelyn''s voice dripped with disbelief, ring at Rayna. "Why would you set this up? Was she the reason you insisted we had to hang out here tonight?" Sandra immediately stepped forward, hands raised in a cating gesture. "Evelyn, please! I don''t want to keep fighting. I want us to resolve this. I''m tired of the bad blood between us." Evelyn scoffed, folding her arms across her chest. "Really? Since when? Do you think I have amnesia and I''ve forgotten the show you put up just this morning? You must think I''m an idiot." "No. It''s not that, Evie, I swear. I''ve realized the errors of my way..."

    "You must really think I''m a fool, and one apology is going to fix everything, don''t you? How dare you show up in front of me after everything you''ve done?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna, ying along, looked between the two women, her face filled with fake concern.

    "Evie, I just thought... you''re both sisters. Can''t you forget whatever happened between you two and get along? I miss us three."

    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed. "You''re saying that because you don''t know the kind of person Sandra is. She''s a backstabbing maniptive bitch."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "What did she do to you?" Rayna asked, but before Evelyn could respond, Sandra cut in.

    "It''s all a misunderstanding, Evie," Sandra''s voice cracked her expression one of desperation. "Just give me a chance to exin. Please. I need you to understand where I''ming from." "I''m never going to understand where you''reing from. You don''t mean anything to me anymore, Sandra," Evelyn said spitefully.

    "Please, Evie. For my sake, can you hear her out? Please,"

    Rayna pleaded, and Evelyn let out an exaggerated sigh.

    "Fine. I''m only doing this for your sake, Ray. But don''t expect me to forgive her," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded.

    "Sure. Thanks. Let''s all sit..."

    Sandra looked at Rayna apologetically, "I''m sorry, Ray, but do you mind excusing us? I want to speak with Evelyn alone. You know, sister to sister."

    Rayna frowned as she nced at Evelyn, and Evelyn shrugged, "You brought me here to hear her out, didn''t you? I don''t see why you should stick around for this. This is between us."

    Sandra bit her lip, nodding slowly. "Yes. Please, Rayna, could you give us a moment?"

    Rayna hesitated, ncing at Evelyn. Evelyn gave her a subtle nod, signaling that everything was under control.

    With a small smile, Rayna picked up her ss and stood.

    "Alright. I''ll hit the dancefloor, But I would have loved to be part of this," she said before walking a short distance away from Sandra''s view, where she could still keep an eye on things.

    Once Rayna was gone, Sandra stepped closer to Evelyn, her voice trembling as she spoke. "Evie, I''m so sorry for everything. I don''t want to fight anymore."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, her expression skeptical. "Cut the pretense, Sandra. We are alone now. Just tell me exactly what this is about."

    Tears welled up in Sandra''s eyes as she began to cry. "I''m serious, Evelyn! I''ve been envious of you for so long. I didn''t know how to handle it and let it ruin everything between us. I just... I miss you. I''m sorry for everything I''ve done. I''m so sorry. I''ve moved out of the house. I''m too ashamed to face Mom and Dad," Sandra said, and Evelyn eyed her with a neutral expression.

    She would have fallen for Sandra''s crocodile tears if she hadn''t known better, but now she could see Sandra''s game. She could tell that Sandra had told her about moving out of the house so she could invite her to her suite, where Michael was waiting.

    Evelyn softened her expression and nodded slowly, though she remained on high alert inside. "Fine, Sandra.

    I''m tired of all the fighting, too. Let''s just put it behind us and bury the hatchet."

    Sandra sniffed and smiled through her tears. "Really?" She asked, and when Evelyn nodded, her face lit up with hope, "If you mean that, hug me. Please. Let''s just... be sisters again."

    Evelyn hesitated but then slowly leaned forward, embracing Sandra. As they hugged, Evelyn could feel Sandra clinging to her longer than necessary, and although she didn''t know why, she could feel Sandra''s hands moving.

    Observing from the gallery, Rayna narrowed her eyes as she watched Sandra embrace Evelyn. Seeing Sandra looking around to make sure no one was looking, Rayna took out her phone to record Sandra.

    She recorded Sandra as she opened her purse and took out a vial. Sandra used her purse to cover the vial from view as she slipped something into Evelyn''s drink.

    Immediately, Rayna stopped recording and hurried down to join them so that Evelyn wouldn''t have to drink from the ss.

 Chapter 124

    Sandra pulled away from Evelyn, a tense smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Thank you so much, Eve. Thank you for hearing me out and forgiving me," Sandra said, even though she wasn''t so sure Evelyn had bought her story. Evelyn smiled, "I''m just d we can put this behind us. "Me too. Now I can order a drink," Sandra said as she signaled the barman, leaning slightly over the counter.

    "Can I get a cocktail, please?"

    The barman nced up from polishing a ss and nodded.

    "Sure. What kind of cocktail would you like?"

    Just as Sandra was about to respond, Rayna suddenly appeared beside her, a wide smile on her face. "Oh, get her the same drink you served us earlier, please," Rayna said cheerfully, sliding into the conversation.

    "You''re back"" Sandra noted with a forced smile.

    "Yeah. I saw you two hugging from across the room and thought, Why not join my favorite duo?" She winked at both of them and leaned her elbows on the bar.

    Sandra shot her a weak smile, trying to regain herposure. "Sure. Let''s all have the same.""

    So,

    all is forgiven

    and forgotten, right?" Rayna asked Evelyn, who was silent.

    Sandra said, reaching for Evelyn''s hand.

    forced a smile, "Yeah. Forgiven and and forgotten."

    Evelyn ford "I''m so happy I could die nas sandra touched her, but she resisted the urge to shudder or reacti Evelyn felt felt her skin crawl as as After mixing Sandra''s dra''s drink, the barman ced it in front of her, but before she could reach for it, Rayna''s eyes twinkled with a yful glint as she gestured toward the entrance. "Hey, Sandy, isn''t that your high school crush?" she teased, pointing toward the crowd. "Tyler? Where?" Sandra asked as she and Evelyn instinctively turned to look, their eyes scanning the room. As they did, Rayna subtly switched Sandra''s drink with Evelyn''s and poured a bit from Sandra''s into Evelyn''s ss to top it off. The action was swift, unnoticed - except by Evelyn, who had caught the exchange out of the corner of her eye. "That''s not Tyler.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    They do not even look alike in any way," Sandra said as she turned back. Evelyn calmly reached for the untouched ss meant for Sandra, raising it to her lips and taking a small sip. She met Rayna''s gaze knowingly but said nothing. After feeling Sandra''s suspicious arm movement during their embrace, she had nned not to touch her drink again and to order something else if need be, but she was d that Rayna had taken the initiative to switch the drinks; now she could see for herself if Sandra had I put something into her r ss.

    Unaware of the switch, Sandra picked up Evelyn''s ss and smiled, holding it out. "Let''s toast-to sisterhood and friendship," she said, her voice a little brighter than before when she saw that Evelyn was sipping from the drink.

    Evelyn smiled tightly, clinking her ss with Sandra''s and Rayna''s. "To sisterhood and friendship," she repeated, her eyes locking with Rayna''s, who gave her a subtle smirk. They all drank in unison, and the tension between the three seemed to ease for a moment. After a few minutes, Evelyn set her ss down and stood up. "I need to use the restroom. I''ll be right back," she said casually, stepping away and leaving Sandra and Rayna alone at the bar so she could give Sandra room to plot more with Rayna. As soon as Evelyn was gone, Rayna turned to Sandra with a pleased smile, "That was quick. I''m d I could help," Rayna said as she picked up her phone casually and turned on the voice recorder. Sandra resisted the urge to roll her eyes as she turned to Rayna. Instead, she smiled sweetly. "Yeah, it was. Thanks for doing this, Ray, but I still need your help with something else," Sandra said quietly. Rayna raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What is it this time?"

    Sand

    Sandra leaned in in closer. "Can

    Can you pretend something urgent came up and leave? I need to spend more time with Evelyn alone. You know, bonding and making up for lost time. It won''t be the same if you''re here." Rayna raised a brow, "What about Michael? When is he getting here?" "He''s here already. He''s in the room I reserved for them..."

    "Michael is s aware that you''re bringing Evelyn to the room?" Rayna asked curiously.

    "Yeah. Of course. I promised him I was going to help him talk to Evelyn," Sandra assured her. "I will get Evelyn to go back to the room with me so I can lock her up with Michael. That way, they can talk things over," Sandra exined. Rayna stared at her for a moment, then shook her head slowly. "Why would you risk everything for that? You just reconciled with her. If she finds out you did this because of Michael, you''ll lose her trust forever." Sandra f a frowned, her voice bing more insistent. "Trust Ray. I have a

    me.

    a n. Just do this for me."

    Rayna hesitated, her fingers drumming on the bar. "I don''t know, Sandy. This feels like a terrible idea."

    Before Sandra could respond, she began to feel a strange drowsiness wash over her. Her eyelids fluttered, and she blinked rapidly, trying to stay awake. "I... I don''t know why I feel so tired," she mumbled to herself, rubbing her temples. Was she feeling this way because of the little sip she had taken from the wine at the suite earlier? Was the medication that potent?" Rayna''s expression changed to one of concern. "Are you okay?"

    Sandra nodded slowly but couldn''t shake the heaviness in her limbs. "Yeah."

    Just then, Evelyn returned, her sharp gaze immediately taking in Sandra''s sluggish movements. She shot Rayna a meaningful look.

    Sandra turned d to Evelyn and signaled

    "Ray? Are you "

    Evelyn raised a brow,"

    "You should go. I''ll be fine with Evelyn."

    between the

    the two women.

    Rayna going," she said as she rose.

    I and as they embraced Rayna whispered to her that she would be outside with Derek.

    reall. Something came up- I should get Evelyn nod Once Rayna was out of sight, Sandra yawned as she looked at Evelyn, wondering why she wasn''t feeling drowsy yet. Figuring that Evelyn had not drunk enough yet, she sluggishly suggested, "Let''s finish our cocktails and head up to my room." "Your room? You have a room here? What for?" "Evelyn asked innocently. "Yeah. I told you I left home because k couldn''t face Mom and Dad. I had a long, terrible day. I feel really exhausted, but I don''t want tonight to end yet. So, let''s go up to my room and chat for a bit. Drink up," Sandra urged Evelyn. Evelyn agreed, and both of them downed their drinks. As Sandra finished hers, she blinked hard, her vision blurring. A wave of confusion swept over her. "Why... aren''t you feeling sleepy?" she asked, her words slurring slightly. Evelyn smiled smiled faintly, her eyes gleaming. "Why should I feel sleepy? I don''t have a job yet, remember? I don''t feel as exhausted as you."

    "But you''re supposed to be feeling sleepy," Sandra said, not understanding what was happening.

    Evelynughed softly, "Am I? Oh, did you, by chance, put anything in my drink? Perhaps that''s why you''re feeling drowsy. I might have switched our drinks mistakenly."

    Although

    she was struggling to keep her eyes open, she managed to look surprised, "You... switched them?" she stammered, her voice filled with disbelief as the realization hit her.

    Evelyn nodded, leaning in closer, her voice cold. "You really think I''d fall for your cheap tricks? Fool me once; shame on you. Fool me twice; shame on me."

    Sandra tried to speak but couldn''t form the words. Her body slumped against the bar as exhaustion overtook her, and within moments, she was out cold, her head resting on her folded arms.

    Evelyn calmly reached for her phone and dialed Derek.

    Momentster, Derek and Rayna arrived at the bar, their expressions concerned.

    Evelyn gestured toward Sandra, who was now fast asleep.

    "I need to take her to the room," she said, her tone steady.

    "Sure. Let''s do

    ?"

    Sure. Let''s that..."

    t need

    that...

    I your help to get her out of here, but I don''t want you to get involved once we''re there. Just assist me in getting her to the room."

    Derek frowned. "What if something goes wrong?"

    Evelyn waved off his concern. "Rayna can wait outside the door, and you can stay some feet away. I''ll handle the rest. If she nned for something to happen, there could be a camera in the room. I don''t want it capturing either of you."

    With a shared nce, Derek and Rayna nodded, and together, they helped Evelyn carry Sandra to the hotel suite since Derek knew the suite number from the text Michael had sent to Sandra.

    Once they reached the door to the suite where Michael was already knocked out, Evelyn dragged Sandra inside andid her on the bed next to him. She paused for a moment, shaking her head at the sight of both of them unconscious.

    Before leaving, Evelyn pulled out her phone and snapped a picture of Sandra and Michael together on the bed, the perfect evidence of their so-called "reconciliation." Satistied, she quietly slipped out of the room, leaving them both in theirpromised positions. Evelyn met Derek and Rayna outside the room, a small, triumphant smile on her lips. "Let''s go," she said simply, and the three of them walked away, leaving Sandra and Michael to deal with the aftermath.

 Chapter 125

    Michael woke up the following day with a splitting headache. The throbbing in his skull was relentless, like someone had been pounding a hammer against his temples all night. He groaned and sat up slowly, his eyes squinting as the sunlight streamed through the curtains of the suite.

    "What the hell happened?" he muttered, rubbing his forehead. The room felt unfamiliar and disjointed. He nced down and realized he was still fully clothed, his clothes wrinkled from having slept in them. Confusion swirled in his mind as he turned to his side. Sandra was lying beside him on the bed, also fully clothed, her chest rising and falling in deep sleep. Michael''s frown deepened. He didn''t remember what had happened and why they were both still fully clothed.

    He reached out and shook her shoulder gently. "Sandra, wake up."

    She didn''t stir.

    Michael''s irritation grew. He shook her harder, this time more aggressively. "Sandra!"

    She groaned, her face scrunching up in difort as she slowly opened her eyes. "What... what time is it?" she mumbled, her voice groggy.

    Michael ignored the question, his mind racing. "How did we end up like this? What the hell happenedst night?"

    Sandra blinked in confusion, slowly sitting up. "I... I don''t know. I have the worst headache," she said, pressing her palm to her forehead.

    Michael narrowed his eyes as he stood up from the bed, his gaze sweeping the room. Something didn''t add up.

    He scanned the suite, his eyes settling on the small hidden camera he had nted in the corner before Sandra had arrived. He quickly retrieved it and plugged it into his phone, his heart pounding as he pulled up the footage.

    He fast-forwarded through the video, his brows furrowing as he saw himself sitting on the bed, drinking from the wine while he waited for Sandra to join him. His movements seemed to slow down, and he yawned repeatedly until he dozed off, passing out within minutes of drinking the wine. Michael''s jaw tightened as he rewound the footage to the beginning.

    There it was Sandra, pouring something into the wine before his arrival. His blood boiled.

    Without a second thought, he marched back to the bed and roughly shook Sandra, who had gone back to sleep, awake again, his voice a low growl. "Sandra, wake up. Now."

    Sandra groaned in protest, her handing up to shield her eyes from the bright light. "What''s your problem?" she snapped, clearly irritated.

    "My problem?" Michael''s voice was sharp as a de. "You drugged me, didn''t you?" He asked as he grabbed her purse.

    Sandra''s eyes widened, but she quickly masked her shock with a frown. "What are you talking about?"

    "Don''t y dumb with me. I just watched the video," Michael snarled, taking out the vial from her purse. "You put this in the wine. I saw you do it."

    "What video? What video are you talking about?" She asked with a frown.

    "It doesn''t matter what video I''m talking about. Answer my damn question! Why did you put something in my drink?" Michael snapped at her.

    Sandra opened her mouth to protest, but the cold fury in Michael''s eyes made her falter. She knew denying it wouldn''t work, so she swallowed hard as she quickly tried to fabricate a believable story, "It..... it wasn''t what you think. I didn''t mean any harm. It was supposed to be an aphrodisiac, not a sedative! I just - I don''t know what went wrong." Michael''sugh was humorless. "An aphrodisiac? That''s the best you''ve got? Do you really think I''m that stupid?

    You didn''t even drink from it, and you left after I passed out." Michael''s eyes darkened, and his jaw clenched in disbelief. Sandra looked at him incredulously. "Did you really set up a video recorder in here?" she asked, her voiceced with disbelief.

    "That''s not important," Michael shot back. "What''s important is why you felt the need to drug me. What were you nning?"

    She flinched at his tone, "Look, I wasn''t nning anything. I just thought¡ª"

    "Cut the crap and tell me exactly what your n was, or else I''m going to kill you in here," Michael threatened.

    Sandra''s eyes shed angrily. "Kill me? Why don''t you try? Was I the only one here with a n? What about you? did you nt a camera in here? What was your n?" She retorted.

    radont mess with me, Michael warned.

    Michael. You should not mess with me! You think you deserve answers, and I don''t? You''re not my boss. You don''t own me. We are doing this together, so quit using that tone on me. I drugged you, so what? Why did you put a camera in here without my knowledge? Were you going to ckmail me with our sex tape or what?" Sandra asked, and Michael frowned as he turned away from her. "This doesn''t make any sense," he muttered, walking away from her as he tried to figure out why she drugged him.

    Seeing that she had seeded in turning the table, after a moment, she exhaled. "Fine. You want the truth? I drugged you, but I wasn''t nning anything. I just... I didn''t want to sleep with you. And I didn''t want to miss my meeting with Rayna," she lied. Michael blinked in surprise, but his re didn''t waver. "What? And you thought drugging me was the best solution?" Sandra b Sandra brushed a brushed her hair out of her face, "You were pressuring me, and I didn''t know what else to do! You threatened to cut me off our arrangement; I didn''t have a choice! It was easier than just saying no. I don''t trust you." Sandra''s voice was defensive. Michael scoffed, shaking his head. "Well, now I don''t trust you either." The room fell into tense silence. They red at each other, tension simmering between them until Sandra''s face suddenly shifted, her frown deepening. "Wait. Did you really have a camera in here?" she asked, her voice sharper now. "Is that how you know everything?" Michael raised an eyebrow. "Why do you care?" Sandra''s brow furrowed as a memory surfaced, her headache momentarily forgotten. "I was with Raynast night, and then Evelyn showed up. I started feeling drowsy, but I don''t remembering back to the room," she said, mixing up the truth with lies since she couldn''t tell Michael that she had invited Evelyn over with ns of setting them up. "Evelyn showed up?" Michael asked as his expression hardened.

    "Yeah. I don''t remember the details. And I don''t remembering back here either. Did your camera catch that?" she asked, and Michael''s anger turned to suspicion.

    He nced down at his phone, scrolling through the footage, rewinding to the point where Sandra entered the room. His stomach dropped as the video showed Evelyn bringing Sandra into the room,ying her beside him, and taking photos of them before leaving. Sandra''s eyes widened as she leaned in to see, and she paled. "What the hell..?" Michael swore under his breath. "Did you tell Evelyn about this suite?" he asked, his voice tight with frustration.

    "No!" Sandra said quickly, shaking her head frantically. "I don''t remember telling her anything, Michael. I was with Rayna when Evelyn showed up, and after that, it''s a blur."

    "Damn it," Michael swore under his breath, and his mind raced as he cursed under his breath again. "We need to get those pictures back, or we''re screwed."

    "How are we supposed to get them from Evelyn?" Sandra asked, and Michael''s jaw clenched as he considered the situation.

    He paced around the room for some time, lost in thoughts, while Sandra frowned as she kept wondering how and when Evelyn had switched their drinks. Was Rayna in on it, too, or had it been just Evelyn? How did Evelyn know the suite number? "I think we will let her keep the pictures"" Michael said after pacing for some time, and Sandra frowned.

    "We can''t do that! How do you..."

    "Getting the photos back would be difficult, but discrediting them could be easier."

    Sandra''s eyes flickered with confusion. "What do you mean?"

    He turned to her with a n forming in his mind. "Think about it: who is she going to show those pictures to? Your parents and Derek. So, we''lle up with a story," Michael exined. "We can say that Evelyn invited us both here separately to talk things over. I got here first; she gave me a drink, and I passed out. Then she knocked you out too, brought you here, and took the pictures to make it look like something happened."

    Sandra''s eyes lit up. "That could work."

    Michael nodded. "You''ll tell your parents that story, and I''ll tell my aunt and Derek."

    Sandra winced. "I''m not sure my parents will believe me.''

    Michael''s gaze hardened. "You have to make them believe you, even if it means that you borrow a page from Evelyn''s book and do what she did to you. Confront her about the pictures and record the conversation. The only part that matters is her admitting she took pictures of us."Sandra slowly nodded, a glimmer of hope sparking in her eyes. "That''s a good idea, but there''s still one problem. The suite is registered under your name. If anyone looks into it, they''ll know Evelyn didn''t book it."This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    Michael smirked. "Don''t worry about that. With the right tip, I''m sure the receptionist can change the name on the booking."

    Sandra let out a slow breath, nodding in agreement.

    "Okay. Let''s do this."

    As they locked eyes, a silent understanding passed between them. They will handle their trust issues some other time. For now, they had amon enemy to handle.

 Chapter 126

    Evelyn sat in the backseat of the cab, a wide smile spreading across her face as she gazed out the window, reying the events of the previous night in her mind.

    After leaving Sandra passed out with Michael, Derek had whisked her and Rayna away to a different lounge for drinks. The memory of the night brought a sense of satisfaction. She was d that they had outsmarted Michael and Sandra, and they now had enough evidence to expose Michael and Sandra''s schemes.

    She let out a soft chuckle, remembering how shocked Sandra had looked when she told her she switched their drinks before she passed out cold.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    Her thoughts were interrupted when her phone buzzed, pulling her from her reverie. When she saw Derek''s name shed on the screen, she answered quickly, still smiling. "Hey," she greeted cheerfully, even though they had spoken earlier that morning when he called to say good morning to Samantha.

    "How''s the most beautiful woman in the world doing?" Derek asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    "That''s quite a stretch, don''t you think?" She asked, stillughing.

    "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, and if I say you''re the most beautiful woman in the world, then you are to me. I don''t care what anyone else thinks about it. Not even you," he said, and sheughed, though his words made her feel warm.

    "Noted. What are you up to? Have you gotten to the office yet?" She asked with interest.

    "Yeah. I walked in a moment ago. What are you up to now?"

    "I just dropped Samantha off at school. I''m heading back home now. I''m going to wait until the realtor calls me, then I''ll step out to continue the house hunting," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "Good," Derek responded, his voice calm but focused. "If I have the time, I will join you. Also, I got an interesting call from the receptionist at the hotel"

    Evelyn raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Why did the receptionist call you?" she asked, curiosity piqued.

    Derek chuckled lightly. "Last night, I had a little chat with him while you were dropping Sandra off. Since you were being careful and didn''t want us to step into the suite with you, Figured we should cover all the bases, you know? So, I asked him not to mention that he saw Rayna and me if anyone was to ask and to let me know if they do ask," Derek exined. Evelyn grinned, impressed by his foresight. "Wow! You sure do think ahead. Why didn''t you tell me you did that?"

    "I didn''t want to overwhelm you, and I wasn''t sure they would actually ask that." His tone was casual, but there was a hint of amusement in his voice.

    "I''m guessing he called you because they asked him?"

    Evelyn asked curiously.

    "Yes. He said Michael and Sandra asked him this morning if he saw thedy who brought Sandra into the suitest night and if she was alone."

    Evelynughed softly. "Oh, so they''re already trying to cover their tracks, huh? What did he tell them?"

    Derek''s voice turned sly. "Well, he told them you escorted Sandra in because she was too drunk, and you asked him for directions to the suite," Derek said, and Evelynughed softly.

    "I guess you told him to say that?" Evelyn asked, amused.

    She might have taken the photos, but the true masterstroke was the setup Derek had orchestrated behind the scenes.

    "Yeah. But that''s not all. So, Michael tried to pay him off to change the name on the reservation from his to yours," Derek said, and Evelyn smirked.

    "I think they must have seen me taking pictures and figured I''m onto them. They''re trying to shift the me now. But it still doesn''t make sense that Michael was knocked out on the bed, Evelyn said thoughtfully, wondering if that was also part of their n.

    "I think it''s a good idea that you didn''t let Rayna and me go in with you. I''m sure they are doing this because they think you were alone, and they can get away by tampering with things," Derek said, and Evelyn''sughter bubbled up.

    "I''m guessing that they think pinning everything on me is better than trying to get the pictures from me. What do we do now?" Evelyn asked curiously.

    "I told the receptionist to take the money from them and y along. Let them think they''ve got the upper hand. I want to see what they try next," Derek said, and Evelyn giggled.

    Just as Evelyn was about to respond, her phone buzzed again - this time with a call from Sandra. She nced at the screen and smirked. "Speak of the devil. Sandra''s calling me right now."

    Derek chuckled. "Don''t admit to anything. And do not say you took her to the suite," Derek advised.

    "But the receptionist already said..."

    "Yes, that is what the receptionist told them, but that won''t be the story the receptionist will say if someone like my Mom should ask him. Don''t worry," Derek said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "You have this all figured out, don''t you?" She asked, and Derek grinned.

    "Yeah. Let''s let them make a spectacle of themself. Let me know how it goes with her. I''ll catch up with you after my meeting." Derek said, and as soon as Derek hung up, Evelyn epted the call, her voice light and teasing. "Morning, Sandy! How was your night? Did you sleep well?" She asked pleasantly.

    There was a pause on the other end before Sandra''s sharp tone cut through. "Why did you put me in bed with Michael and take pictures of us?"

    Evelyn grinned, keeping her voice innocent. "What are you talking about, Sandy?"

    "Don''t act cute with me!" Sandra snapped. "I know you set me up. You put me in that bed with Michael and took pictures to make it look like something happened. How could you? I apologizedst night! I tried to make peace, and you... you ckmail me instead?" Evelyn rolled her eyes, though she couldn''t help but be entertained. "Sandra, I have no idea what you''re going on about. I remember epting your apology and having drinks with you; we both got pretty wasted, and that''s it.

    The rest is a blur," Evelyn said, wanting to see if Sandra would bring up the issue of the switched drink.

    "Don''t lie to me! I know you drugged me and took me to the hotel." Sandra''s voice was growing more frantic now.

    "I have evidence! I know what you did. Was it because you want Derek for yourself? Is that why you''re doing this?" She asked, oblivious to the web they had spun around her and Michael.

    Evelyn burst outughing. "Sandra, you''re so unbelievably delusional," Evelyn said, unable to believe that Sandra was making it seem like she was the one who had drugged her.

    "Did you ask Rayna to set up a meeting with me just so you can use me of something so vile?" Evelyn asked, her disbelief echoing in her voice.

    "Just tell me why!" Sandra''s voice was rose. "Why would you put me in such a position?" She asked, d that the phone wasn''t on speaker so Michael didn''t hear that she had asked Rayna to set up a meeting with Evelyn.

    Evelyn''sughter faded, reced by a calm, calcted tone. "Sandra, I don''t know what you think you saw, but I don''t have any pictures of you with Michael. As a matter of fact, I left before you. I don''t know how you got to your suite or wherever. And if you have some kind of evidence to prove I did whatever you''re using me of, feel free to show it. I''m curious to see what you''ve got." There was silence on the other end. Evelyn smirked to herself, knowing full well that Michael and Sandra would never dare produce any video evidence- especially not when they were trying to pin the whole thing on her.

    With a final satisfied sigh, Evelyn added, "I guess there''s nothing. With this stunt you just pulled, I guess you didn''t mean anything you said, and we are back to normal. Good luck with pinning this on me, Sandy," Evelyn said before hanging up.

    She leaned back in her seat as the cab continued to glide through the city streets. They had Michael and Sandra exactly where they wanted them. The next move was theirs, and she couldn''t wait to see what they would do. Evelyn felt confident they would stumble right into the trap she and Derek had so carefullyid. Now she was enjoying the show.

 Chapter 127

    As Sandra drove back home, she couldn''t stop cussing herself for making such a lousy move the previous night.

    It was unlike her to act so rashly. Now she had to face Michael, who was still very suspicious of her, and at the same time deal with Evelyn.

    She wished she knew what Evelyn was nning or thinking. Something about the way Evelyn had responded made her anxious. Although Michael had said he would clear things up at his end and make sure Derek and his parents wouldn''t take Evelyn seriously, she still couldn''t help being worried about Evelyn.

    As Sandra stepped into the house, she paused for a moment when the soft murmur of voices drifted from the dining table ahead.

    She had been avoiding her parents since the incident with Evelyn the previous day, and neither of them had made any effort to talk to her either.

    Her brows pulled together when she heard Evelyn''s voice.

    Not wanting to believe that Evelyn was there again, she hurried to the dining, taking in the sight of her parents and Evelyn seated together.

    Her heart tightened as she noticed how effortlessly Evelyn seemed to fit in, smiling at her mother and engaging in light conversation with their father as if thest six years had not happened.

    Her stomach churned with hatred at the sight of Evelyn, who looked so rxed. She was the picture of ease and belonging.

    "You''re home," Eric said when they noticed her presence.

    Sandra looked at him, hurt and angry that he had epted Evelyn back so easily despite all her efforts to be a good daughter to him while she was away.

    Sandra, feeling a sudden pang of jealousy mixed with frustration, forced a smile and approached the table.

    "Yeah. Seems like my presence wasn''t missed."

    "Don''t say that, Sandy," Evelyn chided with a cheerful smile.

    After her phone call with Sandra earlier, she had decided to go see her parents instead of going to her ce. She thought it was wiser for them to hear from her first and let them know what happened between her and Sandra the night before. ire looked up from her te with a curious expression. "You didn''t say you were sleeping outst night. Where are youing from? Where did you spend the night?"

    Sandra felt a lump form in her throat. She couldn''t shake the feeling that Evelyn had already told them everything, and now her mother was just waiting for her to admit it.

    Her eyes darted nervously to Evelyn, who was sipping her tea with a contented smile as if she had no care in the world.

    "What has Evelyn told you?" She asked, trying to gauge the situation.

    ire raised an eyebrow and set her fork down. "Are you okay? Why are you asking me about Evelyn when I asked you a question? Where did you spend the night?" ire asked harshly.

    Panic surged in Sandra, and before she could stop herself, tears began welling up in her eyes. "No, I''m not okay. I''m not okay," Sandra cried as she broke into a sob, startling everyone. Evelyn rolled her eyes, wondering what kind of drama Sandra was about to act this time. "What''s wrong, darling?" Evelyn asked calmly.

    "Don''t darling me, you witch!" Sandra yelled, and their parents exchanged a look.

    "Don''t talk to your sister in that tone..."

    "Sister? Evelyn is no sister of mine. She is a witch. I went out to meet Evelynst night to resolve things, but... but she drugged me, Mom! She drugged me and tried to ckmail me!" Sandra cried.

    Both ire and Eric turned to Evelyn, their faces filled with shock and confusion. Evelyn had told them she had something to tell them, but she had yet to get into the details before Sandra arrived, so they had no idea what Sandra was talking about. Evelyn, however, continued sipping her tea, her smile widening ever so slightly. She set her cup down gently and looked at Sandra, feigning surprise.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about, but I find it hrious that you''re trying to twist this entire situation on me. You need to stop this before you dig yourself into an even deeper hole," Evelyn advised. "What are you talking about, Sandra?" ire asked, her voice now tinged with concern as she looked between her daughters.

    "What is she talking about?" ire asked Evelyn.

    Evelyn shrugged innocently. "I have no idea what she''s talking about, Mom."

    Sandra clenched her fists in frustration, her voice rising as she pointed at Evelyn. "Don''t lie! Just admit it! We metst night, right? You drugged me and booked that suite at the hotel! You dragged me there after I passed out!" Evelyn blinked. "Why would I deny that we met? Yes, we metst night. Rayna asked that we hang outst night. I got there expecting to spend time with Ray, but Sandra showed up, and then I realized she was the one who wanted to meet me. But everything else she is using me of fis s absurd, Evelyn said calmly. Sandra''s heart pounded in her chest as she stared at Evelyn, feeling a mix of anger and helplessness. "Don''t you dare pretend like you didn''t drug me! I have evidence, Evelyn. You can''t keep lying!"

    Evelyn leaned back in her chair, her tone still calm but nowced with amusement. "So you said earlier. Well, 1 have evidence, too, and it proves that you''re lying, Sandra."

    Their parents looked between the two of them, their confusion deepening. Eric finally spoke, his voice firm.

    "All right, enough of this. If both of you have evidence, let''s see it. Show us what you''re talking about."

    "The suite! The suite Michael and I woke up in this morning. We found out that Evelyn paid for it! The receptionist said it was Evelyn who brought me in there.

    She set us up and took pictures of us to ckmail me!"

    Eric''s expression darkened, and he frowned deeply.

    "What was Michael doing in the suite with you, Sandra?"

    Sandra swallowed hard, her throat dry as she struggled to exin. "It was a setup! Evelyn called Michael and asked him toe over, pretending she wanted to talk things through with him because she knew he was still in love with her." Evelyn couldn''t hold back herughter any longer. "Oh, Sandra, that''s quite the story. Michael, in love with me?

    That''s the funniest thing I''ve heard all day. Remind me, please. Who called for our meetingst night? Wasn''t it you?"

    Sandra''s face flushed with anger. "I did, but that doesn''t

    mean-

    Evelyn cut her off, her tone turning sharp. "Exactly. And do you really think I would set something up like that and be foolish enough to pay for the hotel suite in my own name? That doesn''t even make sense."

    Sandra''s frustration mounted. "You''re trying to deny it, but it won''t work this time!"

    Eric leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Really? If Evelyn is lying, then how did you know she took pictures of you and Michael if you were both unconscious, as you im?"

    Sandra s

    T

    stammered, trying to think of an answer since she couldn''t say Michael had set up a camera in the room. "I...

    just have a feeling she did it! We woke up there together.

    Why else would she put us there?"

    "So, let me get your story straight. You asked Rayna to invite me over, and somehow I knew you''d be there, so I came with a sedative and also invited Michael over and booked a suite before you showed up, so I could drug you both and set you up? Does it add up? Does rubbish tale you''re spinning make sense to you? I feel insulted that you assume everyone is as mentally slow and retarded as you," Evelyn said, and Sandra red at her, but inwardly Sandra admitted to herself that her story didn''t make sense. Eric folded his arms and turned to Evelyn. "If what Sandra is saying isn''t true, show us your proof." Evelyn''s eyes gleamed as as she

    slowly took out her phone.

    Sandra''s heart skipped a beat. What was Evelyn about to show them?

    "I have a little video, actually," Evelyn said, her voice casual. "So,st night, Sandra imed she wanted us to make up. And then she asked Rayna to excuse us for a while, and we talked things through. After I agreed to forgive her, she embraced me. Never would I have imagined that this snake here was putting something into my drink..." "Lies! All lied! You''re a pathetic liar," Sandra cut in.

    "As I said, I have a video to back up my story. Thankfully, someone at the club signaled me from the balcony and told me they saw something interesting. Sandra, care to guess what it was?"

    Sandra''s blood ran cold. "You''re lying. You''re making this all up."

    "Am I?" Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "You see, the person sent me a video of you trying to put something in my drink. That was why I switched the drinks when you weren''t looking. That''s why I excused you and Rayna, iming I wanted to use the restroom. I went to meet the person," Evelyn said since she didn''t want Sandra to suspect Rayna of being on her side.

    Sandra''s eyes widened. Who could have made such a video? How could that have happened "No! That''s not true! You''re using me falsely! I didn''t-"

    "Rx, Sandra," Evelyn said, her tone icy. "I have the video right here. Do you want to see it, or should I show it to Mom and Dad?"

    Their parents exchanged worried nces, and ire''s voice trembled as she asked, "Show us the video, Evelyn."

    Sandra''s heart pounded in her chest as Evelyn tapped a few buttons on her phone. She yed the video, and there it was-clear as day. Sandra could be seen subtly slipping something into Evelyn''s drink when she thought no one was looking. The sight of it made ire gasp, and Eric''s face hardened with disappointment.

    Evelyn smiled sweetly as she set her phone back on the table. "There you have it. I didn''t drug her. I just switched the drinks, and when she passed out, I left," Evelyn lied for Sandra''s benefit since she nned to tell her parents the truthter.

    ire''s eyes filled with tears as she turned to Sandra.

    "Sandra, what did you put in Evelyn''s drink?"This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Sandra''s mind raced for a way out. "I... I don''t know that person in the video. Evelyn set this up. She''s manipting everything!"

    "You don''t know the person in the video? Take a look at the video again, Sandy. You''re still wearing the same dress fromst night," Evelyn said with a smirk. "You''re lying. Why are you doing this to me?" Sandra asked, breaking into a sob.

    Their mother looked heartbroken, and Eric''s expression was unreadable. "Sandra, you''ve been caught in a lie; quit your drama. It''s embarrassing."

    Sandra''s frustration boiled over. "Why are you both just taking Evelyn''s side and not taking my word for it? You should go to the hotel and confirm it for yourselves!

    Evelyn booked the suite! Why else would she do that if she didn''t take photos of us?"

    Evelyn rolled her eyes, but before she could respond, her phone buzzed, and she nced at it. She rose when she saw it was the realtor and it was time for their meeting.

    "Sorry, I need to take my leave. I have some business to attend to," Evelyn said to her parents.

    Sandra stared at her in disbelief. "You want to run away because you''ve been caught!"

    Evelyn stood up, adjusting her coat. "Don''t be a fool, Sandra. Why would I run when I''m innocent? I''m giving you extra time to cook up a better story, Sandra. We can continue this nonsenseter when I have time to spare for your bullshit. But you should know that I''m really disappointed in you for this cock and bull story you came up with."

    With that, Evelyn turned and walked out of the house, leaving their parents staring at Sandra with disappointment in their eyes.

    "This is your second strike, Sandra. One more strike and you''re out," ire threatened, knowing that Eric was still holding back for her sake.

    Sandra''s chest tightened with rage as she stormed off to her room, mming the door behind her. She screamed into her pillow, her whole body trembling with frustration.

    Who was the unfortunate being who had videoed her slipping the sedative in Evelyn''s drink? How could such an incriminating evidence exist?

    She couldn''t let Michael find out that she had tried to drug Evelyn, or else he was going to figure out why she drugged him.

    She was going to have to find a way to make all of this go away so that Michael wouldn''t find out the truth.

    Evelyn might have slipped away this time, but Sandra swore to herself that she wouldn''t let her get away with it ever again. She would make sure of it.

    With that she picked up her phone and dialed Michael''s line.

 Chapter 128

    Michael stormed into Derek''s office, his usuallyposed face twisted in frustration as he approached the desk where Derek sat, casually ncing up from hisptop.

    idn''t change even though he knew Michael exactly what Michael was in his office to do.

    Derek''s calm expression didn''t

    Derek leaned back in his chair. "Mike. I''ve told you before. You have to knock when youe into my office. You can''t just barge into my way. I can''t keep telling you this. What if I was in a meeting or something?" Derck scolded. office this

    "I''m sorry, Derek. I confirmed with your secretary beforeing in. I just needed to talk to you before I lose my mind," Michael said, resisting the urge to scowl at Derek since keeping up his act was more important at the moment than Derek''s stupidity. "Want to sit?" Derek asked, gesturing for Michael to sit. "What is the problem?" He asked as he picked up his phone casually and ced it on record.

    He knew Michael was about to spin a story, probably some borate excuse. He had been waiting for this all morning. He and Evelyn had agreed to always record their conversations with Michael and Sandra more for their entertainment than for evidence because the duo were dim-witted clowns

    Oblivious to what Derek was doing, Michael threw himself into the chair, rubbing his temples in frustration. "I can''t believe how stupid I am," he muttered through clenched teeth. "I''m so mad at myself that I could die right now

    Derek raised an eyebrow, maintaining his calm demeanor. "How can you say such a thing about yourself? What did you do? Did something happen! Derek asked, folding his hands on the desk in front of him, his voice even and patient.

    Michael exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. "Yesterday, I got a call from Evelyn."

    Derek widened his eyes, feigning surprise. "Evelyn! Why would she call you?"

    "That''s what I thought!" Michael said, shaking his head. "I was just as shocked. She asked if we could meet and said she wanted to talk things over.

    Derek''s expression remained neutral, but inwardly, he was struggling not to snort. He doubted that Evelyn even had Michael''s number, but he knew Michael was ying a part in whatever this was, and he needed to y along "And you agreed to meet her?" Derek asked incredulously

    "At first, I wasn''t going to. I mean, after all that happened, why would I Michael shifted ufortably in his seat. "But then. I guess curiosity got the better of me. I wanted to know why she really called off our wedding. I needed closure.

    Derek nodded slowly, pretending to follow along "That makes sense 1 1 can see why you''d want that."

    Michael continued, his voice dropping lower as if he were sharing a dark secret. "She sent me a

    a suite

    number, not a restaurant or cafe. That should''ve been a red g, but I wasn''t suspicious. I thought maybe she lived there or something, so I didn''t make a big deal out of it."

    Derek kept his face calm, but inside, he was plecing together the story Michael was trying to sell him. "So, you went"

    "Yeah," Michael muttered, looking embarrassed, "When I got there, we talked for a while, and she apologized for everything and for cheating on me. She told me a lot of stuff, and I forgave her."

    "Did you record all she said?" Derek asked, and Michael frowned.

    "No, I didn''t. Why would I think of doing that Maybe I should have. I guess I was still thinking of her as the innocent Evelyn I once loved. This is why I didn''t think anything of it when she offered me a drink afterward. But the next thing I know, I wake up the next morning- this morning- with Sandra beside me in bed," he said in disbelief.

    Derek''s mouth twitched, holding back the urge to smile. So, this was the angle Michael was going for. He managed to keep his voice steady. "Sandra In bed with you? How Do you think Evelyn set this up?"

    Michael nodded, his face a mix of anger and disbelief. "I think she''s trying to ckmail us, make it look like Sandra and I are having an affair."

    Derek leaned forward slightly, acting horrified. "Evelyn Doing something like that? That''s unbelievable

    "I know, right" Mi

    Michael rubbed his forehead again, clearly ying the victim. "The Evelyn I was engaged to was nothing like this. She was so sweet, so pure. Now. I don''t know i''s like she''s turned into someone else. She''s-she''s evil"

    Derek sat back taking in Midiac''s words. He couldn''t help but wonder if he would not have fallen for this bullshit had he not known Evelyn personally.

    "Why do you think she did something like that? I mean, what is the purpose" Derek asked, and Michiel shrugged.

    "I told you what she told Sandra. I think she wants everyone to think she ended things with me because I was having an affair with Sandra. I''m pretty sure that is her n. She might likely send pictures to you or something. She wants to have you for herself like she threatened Sandra Michael uid with a scowl

    He had thought about it, and he know that Evelyn was most Gever give Evelyn an audience.

    lyn was most likely to seisd the pictures to Derek and not his aum. His unke Derek, would

    "Lire. So, what so you n to als Are you going to have her arrested or sur her? Lerk asked since that was the reasonable course of action b follow if something like that truly happened.

    The suggestion made Michael freeze for a second his eyes widening He quickly shook has head. "No, no. I don''t want to take it that far

    Derek''s voice remained calen, but he pressed on pushing Michael into a corner. "Why not? Evelyn crossed a line. She can''t just get away wir something like this. She shouldn''t!"

    Michael shook his head, "I just don''t want to drag this out. It''s embarrassing enough that I fell into her trap."

    Derek scoffed inwardly, "Have you told my Mom or yours al

    ?abeuit this?" Derek asked, eyring him with disapproval agreed to meet with

    Michael shifted in his seat, clearly ufortable now. "Tim not telling them. You know they would be furious that I Evelyn in the first ce. And they will blow the whole thing out of proportion and might arrest her. I don''t want that I just want it to go away quietly" Derek tilted his head, keeping his tone casuall but insistent. "So, you came to me to vent because you expected me to just sit back and allow you not to do anything about this? If you don''t do anything, how will this end! I think we should definitely get her arrested. If you don''t do it I will"

    Derek knew exactly what game Michael and Sandra were ying, and he had no intention of letting them win

    Michael blinked, caught off guard by Derek''s sudden determination. He did not expect such a reaction since he knew Derek liked Evelyn

    He frowned, suspicion creeping into his features "Why are you pushing this so hard? Do you have something against Evelyn"

    Derek waved a hand dismissively, his face calm. "Notting against her. I just think she''s poor too far this time

    Michael looked even more confined. "I thought you cared about Evelyn. Why are you bring so harsh?"

    Derek shrugged. "I did care about her, but that doesn''t mean I''ll stand by and let her rain lives. Besides, I told you my focus is on Sandra now. As long as Sandra is involved in this, I should take action"

    Michael shook his head. "The truth is that I still love Evelyn. I''d rather try to talk things through with her. I don''t think Sandra would want Evelyn to be arrested, either. Despite all she has done to her, Sandra still loves Evelyn very much

    Derek sighed heavily, clearly not buying it, but he didn''t want to argue. "That''s nonsense. She needs to be dealt with"

    Michael narrowed his eyes, now more suspicious than ever. "You''re acting like this is personal for you. If you want to punish her, then don''t let her interview you. I don''t want to arrest her, so drop it," he said, and it was all Derek could do not tough out loud. Derek pretended to cough to hide hisughter, and before he could say anything else. Michael''s phone buzzed. Michael nced at it, and when he saw it was Sandra, he looked back at Derek. "Work calls. I need to get back to my office." He said as he stood up, afering Derek a forced smile. "Thanks for listening"

    Derek nodded, watching Michael walk out. The moment the door closed. Derek leaned back in his chair and let out a soft chuckle. pleased with how the conversation had gone.

    He couldn''t believe Michael thought he was so easy to manipte. Now that Derek could see through his lies as clearly as day, he was beginning to think back to everything Michael had ever said to him in the past and doubted their authenticity

    Just as he was about to return to work, his phone rang. ncing at the screen, he saw it was Ethan. Smiling. Derek picked up the call. "Hey, how''s it going"

    Ethan''s voice was warm and friendly. "All is well. How''s thetest Dad in town and his babies?"

    Derek chuckled "We''re all good. What''s up with you?"

    "I was thinking of stopping by t

    the officeter. You free?" Ethon asked curiously,

    Derek thought for a moment. "I''ve got a busy day, but we can meet after work hours at our usual spot. How''s the wife hunt going?"

    Ethanughed. "You won''t believe it, but I think I''ve found my perfect match. I''ll tell you all about her when we meet

    Deck buckled. "Looking forward to hearing about it."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    As they were wrapping up the call, Derek''s phone buzzed again. "My

    by dad''s calling. Let''s catch upter, okay?"

    "Sure thing" Ethan replied, and they hung up

    Derek answered his father''s call "Hey, Dad What''s up?"

    His father''s voice was cheerful. "I was thinking about when you''re bringing my granddaughter to see ine?

    chuckled. "No hello to met No how you''re doing Don''t tell me you care more about your granddaughter now

    "As a matter of fact, I do. I had a dream about herst night, his father said with a chuckle.

    "You''ve not even met her yet, and you''re dreaming about her already?" Derek asked, amused by his father''s enthusiasm for meeting Samantha since he had never thought that having grandkids was such a big deal to him. That''s my problem, not yours. When am I seeing her? Or do I have to go find her myself?" He asked, and Derekughed.

    "Don''t worry I already talked with Evelyn. I''m taking her on tomorrow, We can meet somewhere."

    "Why meet somewhere" his father asked. "Just bring her over to the house."

    "But Mom.."

    "Don''t worry about your Mom. She doesn''t need to know Sam is your daughter yet. Let her naturally fall in love with the kid before we say anything to her. That way, it would be harder for her to protest." Derck considered it for a moment, then nodded. "That''s actually a good idea. I''ll do that,"

 Chapter 129

    The following day, Derek arrived at Evelyn''s home with a bouquet of bright pink roses in his hand.

    He was excited about spending the day with Samantha, and he stood on the front porch for a moment, taking a deep breath before ringing the doorbell.

    After a few seconds, Maya opened the door with a warm smile and greeted him with a polite nod. "Good morning, sir. Pleasee in. Samantha is almost ready," she said, heading toward the hallway. I''ll go get her." inside, his eyes sweeping the cozy living room as he settled himself onto the couch. The soft hum of quiet household noises filled the air, and Evelyn joined him just a few momentster. "Good "How is my Queen doing? And where is my princess?" He asked, and Evelyn grinned.

    Dere You''re right on time," she said with a bright smile as Derek rose to kiss her.

    "I''m fine. Your princess wanted to make to make a grand

    entrance,"

    Derek turned as he heard light footsteps running down the Evelyn said, jerking her head down the hallway. Samantha

    hall.

    na appeared in the doorway, her face glowing, showing off her outfit.

    with excitement. She was dressed in a lovely pink dress that flowed around her knees. Her hair was tied in a neat bow that matched the color of her dress, and her smile was as wide as could be. Derek clutched his chest dramatically and gasped, his expression full of mock pain. "Oh no! Princess, your beauty is too much for my heart! I don''t know if I can survive!"

    "Daddy! Look at my dress!" Samantha twirled,

    Both Evelyn and Samantha giggled at Derek''s yful reaction, and even Maya, who had been quietly watching from her corner, smiled to herself. Derek grinned, kneeling down to meet Samantha at eye level. He handed her a small flower from the bouquet and asked, "So, are you ready for our first dale, Miss Sall

    Samantha beamed, clutching the flower tightly. "Yes! I''m ready!"

    Derek stood up and turned to Evelyn, handing her the rest of the flowers. "For you. Don''t worry, I''ll bring her back early."

    Evelyn took the flowers with a small smile and waved a hand dismissively. "Take your time, Derek. Maya and I will be busy at the new house, so there''s no rush."

    Evelyn leaned down and kissed Samantha on the forehead. "Be a good girl, okay?"

    Samantha nodded eagerly, and Derek led her to the door. After helping her into the back seat of his car, he got into the driver''s seat and looked at her through the rearview mirror. "Alright, Sam," he said with a smile. "We''re going to have lots of fun today. And I''m going to get you lots of nice things, just you wait."

    Samantha giggled I with excitement as Derek started the car. They spent the morning together, going to a toy store, visiting an ice cream parlor, and ying games at a local park. Laughter filled the air as Derek pushed her on the swings, and they took silly photos together. After a while, as they sat on a bench with Samantha eating a second scoop of ice cream, Derek turned to her with a more serious expression. "Hey, Sam, there''s something I want to ask you."

    Samantha looked up at him curiously, licking her ice cream. "What is it, Daddy?"

    Derek leaned in slightly and asked in a hushed tone, "Can you keep a secret?"

    Samantha nodded eagerly, her eyes wide with intrigue. "Yes! I can keep a secret!"

    Derek smiled and continued, "Alright, so here''s the deal. I want to take you to meet my parents today. But there''s something important. I want to keep it a surprise that I''m your daddy, okay? So when we get there, you should just call me Rek, like you used to. It''s not because I''m scared or ashamed, but I want to reveal it to themter as a big surprise. Can you do that for me?" Samantha''s a''s eyes sparkled, and she nodded enthusiastically. "I can do it! I''ll keep the secret!" "Good girl," "Derek said, Sald What do I call them?" KISSing her forehead. "You''re the best."

    Samantha asked curiously.

    "You can call them Mr and Mrs Stone unless they ask you to refer to them otherwise," Derek said, and with that, Derek drove them to his parents'' house since his father was expecting them for lunch. When they arrived, he parked the car and helped Samantha out.

    Holding her hand as they walked up to the front door.

    Derek''s father weed them at the door, having been watching the security camera to see when they would pass through the

    gate

    "Hello, angel. You''re Samantha, right?" Derek''s father asked,pletely ignoring Derek as he focused on the little girl. Samantha bobbed her head, "Hello, Mr Stone. You can also call me Sammy or Sam. I''m Rek''s friend."

    Mr. Stone''s face softened as he looked at Samantha. "Well, aren''t you a sweet little thing? Come in,e in!"

    "Darling, who is at the door?" Derek''s mom asked, and then she paused when she saw Derek and her eyes widened when she saw Samantha.

    "Hello, Mom," Derek

    Derek greeted, even though they were yet to make up since theirst argument.

    Mrs Stone didn''t say anything as her gaze remained fixed on Samantha. The resemnce between her and Derek when he was a little was striking. Who was the kid? Was this Derek''s kid? When did Derek have a child this grown up? Was it possible that Derek would She seemed a bit taken aback but said nothing as Derek introduced them. "Sam, when we first met, you asked if I had a mommy and daddy. This is my mommy and daddy, and this is our house."

    Samantha greeted them politely, her manners impable. "Hello, Mrs Stone. It is nice to meet you!" she said, looking at Derek''s mom with a bright smile, which Derek''s mom returned. Still, she said nothing.

    Derek''s child would definitely not refer to her as Mrs. Stone, she thought as she nced at her husband to see if he was thinking the same thing.

    Oblivious to what his wife was thinking, Mr Stone smiled warmly at Samantha and gestured toward the table. "Why don''t youe sit with us, Sammy, and tell us all about yourself?" Samantha wasn''t shy at all. She walked over and sat down at the dining table, chatting easily with Derek''s father as his mother served her a te while Derek served himself. me about t school," Derek''s father urged her, and Samantha went on to tell them all about school and her teacher.

    "So, you just started school school. Tell

    As

    the meal went on, Mrs. Stone noticed something- Samantha had the same food preferences as Derek did growing up. She nced at her husband but said nothing, though her curiosity was clearly piqued. With her sweet voice and charming questions, Samantha quickly won over Derek''s parents.

    After listening to to the little little girl for some time, Mrs. Stone leaned forward and looked at Samantha, "So, how did you meet Derek?"

    After the meal, Mrs Stone stacked the dishes Samantha smiled as she looked up at Derek and then told them about how she had met him. Derek chuckled as he added that they had met again at the yground after losing contact. before the the housekeepers

    After the

    could, and

    the e moment she walked into the kitchen, she took out Samantha''s and Derek''s spoons and ced them in a storage bag before hiding them away. Apart from the striking resemnce and simrities between Derek and the kid, she didn''t think Derek would bring any random kid into their home in the name of friendship. And she didn''t buy the act her husband and Derek were putting up either. As Derek''s parents saw them off a short whileter, Derek''s father smiled at Samantha and said, "I hope we''ll see you again soon, Sam. You''re so much fun. And maybe you can call me Grandpa instead of Mr Stone. Can you do that?" Samantha looked at Derek, waiting for his approval. When he nodded, she grinned and said, "Okay, Grandpa!" before hugging him.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Mrs. Stone, not wanting to be left out, added, "And if you''re going to call him Grandpa, then you''d better call me Grandma too!"

    and kissed her cheek.

    Samantha giggled and hugged her as well. "Okay, Grandma!" She said and

    Derek looked at this mother, contemting giving her a hug, and after a moment''s hesitation, he did, "I''m not fighting with you. You should stop fighting with me."

    "If you don''t want to fight, then you should listen to me. And you should bring "I will listen to you when you start listening to me," Derek said before walking away with Samantha.

    Derek drive off with Samantha, Mr. Stone sighed contentedly and said, "You know, I feel like a real grandfather now."

    Watching Der

    His wife turned to him with her arms crossed. "If only that little girl were Derek''s," she said with a hint of curiosity,

    He raised an eyebrow at her. "And you wouldn''t be upset if Derek had a child outside of wedlock?"

    is done.

    If the child is his, we will have to make sure he marries the mother immediately."

    She shook her head. "What''s done is

    He chuckled. "And what about your beloved Sandra?"

    "Sandra''s a good girl"" Mrs. Stone replied with a shrug. "But she''s not the only girl in the world. Derek doesn''t have to marry only her, especially if a kid is in the picture," she said as they walked back into the house. Heughed. "Well, let''s just wait and see what happens." "Yeah. Let''s wait and see," she said, thinking of the DNA test she nned to do.

    She intended to find out if the kid was Derek''s, and if she was, then she was going to have to look into it and find out more.

 Chapter 130

    Rayna pushed her cart slowly down the grocery aisle, scanning the shelves as she went. It waste in the afternoon, and the store

    wasn''t very crowded, making it a peaceful time to shop.

    Her list was almostplete, but she still needed to grab one more thing- her favorite cereal. She turned the corner into the cereal aisle, her eyes immediately locking on the bright blue box she always bought. heart sank when she saw there was only one box left. Quickening her pace, Rayna reached out to o grab i

    it, but just as her fingers touched the box, another hand did, too.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Startled, she looked up and froze when she saw who the hand belonged to. Ethan.

    Her heart skipped a beat. Was this what Fate was? Or was this just a coincidence? How was it possible that she was meeting him again this way?

    Ethan''s dark eyes met hers as he wondered why he was running into her again this way. He refused to believe it meant anything.

    For a moment, neither of them said anything, their hands still gripping the same box of cereal. Rayna could feel her pulse quicken, and she fought to steady her breath.

    "Was this nned?" He asked, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

    ?"

    beg

    your pardon?" She asked, wondering what he was talking about.

    "Why am I running into you here? Did youe here knowing I would be here?" He asked, his eyes narrowed suspiciously.

    Rayna sighed. She hadn''t expected to see him here, and certainly not like this. If she had thought for a moment that she would run into him here, she wouldn''t be wearing her ugly errand dress.

    Damn! Damn!

    "Was I supposed to know you''d be here? Listen, I don''t know what you''re talking about, but what I do know is that I touched this first.

    You should let go," she said, trying to sound confident, but her voice came out a little too weak.

    Ethan raised an eyebrow. "I don''t think so," he said tly, still trying to figure out if his brother or sister-inw had told Rayna that he was going grocery shopping.

    Rayna blinked, caught off guard by his calm response. She tightened her grip on the box. "You know, I wouldn''t have thought we had the same taste in cereal." She tried to make her tone light, but the tension between them was undeniable. Ethan scoffed, still holding the box with a firm grip. "I don''t have the same taste as you. This isn''t for me," he said. "It''s for my sister-inw, he lied.

    At the mention of Sara, Rayna felt a flicker of guilt. She knew it was probably a pregnancy craving. She hesitated for a second before releasing the box with a sigh. "Well, if it''s for Sara, I guess I can let you have it," she said, crossing her arms over her chest.

    "But in exchange, how about I buy you a drink? To apologize for the other night." She winced slightly when she remembered how he had stormed out of the cafe thest time. Ethan''s expression hardened at the mention of what she did, and he shook his head. "I don''t want a drink from you. Thanks for this," he said and turned to leave with the box of cereal. Rayna blinked, taken aback by his blunt refusal, and she quickly blocked his path. "Everyone makes mistakes, you know?" she said, trying to sound reasonable.

    Ethan let out a dryugh, shaking his head again. "Sure. But not everyone goes around calling strangers names when they don''t even know what they''re talking about." His tone was sharp, and Rayna could feel the sting of his words. "You said I looked like a pervert." Rayna bit her lip, embarrassment flooding her. She had been so wrong that day, jumping to conclusions and Ethan''s eyes narrowed, his voice e cold. "Why am I am I not surprised? he said. "Hiding behind alcohol, huh? Isn''ting her frustration get the better of her. "I... I wasn''t thinking straight. I guess I had too much to drink," she said, hoping that would exin her behavior. tit funny how a drunk person used me of being a pervert?" Rayna''s face flushed with anger and humiliation. She had apzed with good intentions, trying to make things right, but now she just felt like she was being attacked. She straightened up, her chin lifting defiantly. "What''s your Yes, I made an error in judgment and called you a pervert. You also said I was unattractive, didn''t you? If I could forgive you for that and still humble myself to apologize to you, why do you keep acting like a jerk? You know what? Forget it," she snapped. "You might not be a pervert, but you''re an unforgiving jerk, and I no longer care whether you forgive me or not. I''ve apologized, and that''s it. You can take it or leave it." Without waiting for a response, she pushed her cart down the aisle and walked away from him. She didn''t look back, but she could feel Ethan''s eyes on her as she left him standing there with the cereal.

    Her heart was pounding in her chest, and she clenched her fists, angry at both him and herself for how the conversation had gone.

    Her phone buzzed in her pocket as she pushed her cart toward the checkout. She pulled it out and saw Evelyn''s name on the screen.

    "Hey, Evie,, Rayna answered, trying to keep her voice steady despite the swirl of emotions inside her.

    "Hey, Ray. Are you

    "I just ran into thatelyn asked when she didn''t hear the usual excitement in Rayna''s voice.

    t understand how Derek can be a ten, and his friend is a minus 10," Rayna said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "You ran into Ethan a Doesn''t that mean he''s your destiny? what you said, right?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna snorted.

    That was what

    "More like my nemesis or archenemy," she muttered, and Evelyn hooted withughter. "Your what? I take it you didn''t ask him out as "You

    "You sound like you''re enjoying my annoyance Rayna hissed.

    s you nned to do when you meet him?" Evelyn asked amidst herughter.

    you had such a beautiful, romantic picture. So, I''m surprised," Evelyn said as she tried to bring herughter under control.

    I''m sorry. I I''m so sorry. It''s just so t so funny. I mean,

    "That guy is a bastard. I''m not apologizing to

    to him anymore. He can go to hell for all I care," she muttered. "What''s up with you, anyway? Why did you call?" She asked curiously, not wanting to talk about Ethan anymore. "Are you home? I was thinking of dropping by," Evelyn said, her tone warm.

    Rayna sighed, trying to shake off the frustration from her encounter with Ethan. "I went grocery shopping, but I''m on my way home now. You cane over if you want. I''ll be there soon." "Perfect! I''ll see you in an hour," Evelyn replied before hanging up.

    Rayna slipped her phone back into her pocket and paid for her groceries, her mind still buzzing with thoughts of Ethan.

    She couldn''t believe how quickly things had spiraled, and part of her regretted how she had handled the situation. But another part of her- still stinging from his words- felt like maybe it was better this way. As she walked out of the store and headed to her car, she took a deep breath, hoping that seeing Evelyn would help take her mind off things.

 Chapter 131

    Ethan scowled as he walked out of the grocery store with his bags in hand. He couldn''t believe that she had referred to him as an unforgiving Jerk.

    First, she had called him a pervert, and now he was an unforgiving jerk, he mused, wondering what her problem with him was and why he kept encountering her this way.

    He knew he was eventually going to have to forgive her and put what had happened between them behind him since she wasn''t someone he could avoid- not when she was close to his brother and sister-inw and also happened to be best friends with Derek''sdy. Either way, he was stuck with her, so he was going to have to find a way to tolerate her despite her annoying personality.

    Not wanting to dwell on it, he got into his car and drove home. The moment he got home, he decided to rx for a while.

    He picked up his phone and smiled as he thought of his Golden Sun. She had asked him to let her know when she made it to Top 3. After chatting with the other fourdies on his top 5 list, his thoughts kept drifting back to her, and he enjoyed talking with her more. During their hangout the previous day, he had told Derek about his Golden Sun, and Derek had suggested that if he enjoyed herpany so much, he should probably work towards meeting with her and finding out if they''repatible in areas that matter. Deciding to give her a call, he dialed her line. Almost immediately, Rayna, who had just stepped out of the shower and was wrapped in her bathrobe, received the call with a broad smile when she saw it was ET.

    "Hello, husband man," Rayna greeted pleasantly, and Ethan grinned.

    "Husband man?" He asked, feeling good already just at the sound of her voice.

    "Why? Do you prefer husband woman?" She teased, and he chuckled.

    "Husband man is fine. I''m just wondering why you chose to call me that," Ethan said, and Rayna sighed as she sat on the edge of her bed. "Because you''re a man aspiring to be a husband. Tell me something, do you call your top five candidates one after the other?" She asked curiously.

    "I called you just because I wanted to know how you''re doing," Ethan said as he rxed on his couch.

    "Well, I''m okay. I was having a bad day a while ago, but I feel better after a cold shower. What about you?" She asked, and Ethan sighed.

    "Same here. But I feel better after hearing your voice. Why were you having a bad day? Want to talk about it?" Ethan asked, but Rayna shook her head.

    "Nah. It''s not worth talking about. Care to tell me my present position in your top five and the criteria to be your top one?" Rayna asked, changing the subject.

    "I believe you''re my top one, seeing how I enjoy yourpany and think about you when I talk to the others," he said, and Rayna grinned. "Really? You think about me when you talk to the others?" She asked with a smile as she bit her lower lip. "Yeah. So, I wanted to ask you some questions," Ethan said, and Rayna''s brow arched.

    "Shoot."

    "Will you be willing to undergo some health checks at a medical facility of my choice? I want to be certain that you''re healthy," he said, and Rayna shrugged.

    "As long as you''re paying for it, I don''t mind," she said, and he smiled.

    "And you''re also going to have to undergo a medical check too at a facility of my choice, but you''ll pay for it yourself," she said, and Ethan chuckled. "Why?" He asked, and she raised a brow.

    "Why what? If you''re asking why a facility of my choice, it''s because I can''t trust a result from a random ce you choose. And if you''re asking why you''re the one paying for it, it''s because I''m sure you''re richer than I am. Besides, you have four other options apart from me. What if you choose to go with them at the end of the day? I would have wasted my hard-earned money already," she said, and he chuckled.

    "Okay. We will do that. Let''s assume that we arepatible and everything is okay health-wise. Would you mind getting married in two weeks?" Ethan asked, and Rayna''s heart skipped a beat.

    ""Two weeks?"

    "Yes. I don''t want to date. I want to get married. We already get along so well. This is better than what I expected when I put out the ad. We can get

    to know more about each other after we get married. And I''d like us to start having kids immediately," he said, and Rayna felt butterflies in her belly.

    "This is supposed to sound rushed and weird, but why does it make me hot?" She asked, and Ethan smiled.

    "Maybe because having kids means we are going to have sex..."

    "You don''t even know if you will find me sexually attractive," Rayna pointed out.

    "For some reason, I already find you sexually attractive even though I don''t know what you look like. Maybe it is your voice. Or the way you speak," Ethan said, and Rayna giggled.

    "I feel the same about you. It''s weird that we feel that way," she said, and looked up when her doorbell rang and she remembered that Evelyn wasing.

    "I think my best friend is at the door. I''ll call you back. Or maybe we can text instead," she said as she headed for the door in her bathrobe.

    "Alright. Let''s switch to texting then," Ethan said before hanging up.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Rayna had a grin on her face as she opened the door to Evelyn, "Hey, what''s up?" She asked, and Evelyn raised a brow.

    "Why do you look so excited when you sounded so pissed earlier?" Evelyn asked as she stepped inside.

    Rayna waved off the question, "That''s in the past. Guess who I was talking with just now? ET," Rayna said with a wide smile as she shut the door behind Evelyn. "Hmm. So, Ethan made you angry, and ET is making you happy. Funny how Ethan''s name begins with ET, too," Evelyn said, and Rayna scowled.

    "Ethan is nothing like my ET. Please don''t even mention their names in the same sentence. That Ethan guy is so so annoying," Rayna said, and Evelyn giggled. "I guess you no longer n to double date," Evelyn said, and Rayna shook her head.

    "Nope. I''m settling for ET," Rayna said as she sat down, and then nced at her phone when it buzzed with a message notification from him.

    ET: [So, how many kids would you like to have?]

    Golden Sun: [I''d like to have three kids. Two boys and a girl. You?]

    ET: [I''m thinking two girls and a boy, or maybe all three girls.]

    Golden Sun: [Why all girls?]

    ET: [I''ve always wanted to be a girl Dad. I see so many cute girl dad videos on Instagram, and I want to be one.]

    "Are you even listening to me?" Evelyn asked with an amused expression as she watched Rayna, who seemed engrossed in her phone and had a grin on her face.

    "Yeah. Sure," Rayna said without looking up, "This guy is hrious, Evie," Rayna said with a giggle.

    "I suppose you''re talking about ET?" Evelyn asked, watching her.

    "Yeah. Who else? I think he''s a 10," Rayna said, looking up at Evelyn with a grin.

    "If he is so great, why is he single and in need of an ad to find a wife?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna shrugged.

    "Am I not a great catch myself? Why am I single? And why did I respond to such an ad to find a man?" She asked, and Evelyn nodded.

    "That''s a good point. You single people need to stick together," Evelyn said, and Rayna''s jaw dropped.

    "You didn''t just say that to me, bitch!" Rayna said, and Evelyn tittered withughter.

    "Yeah, I did, you single Pringle," Evelyn taunted.

    "You do realize that I could get married before you at this rate, right? My ET is not here to y. He wants a wife, not a girlfriend. And we don''t have Sandra or Michael to stop us. We are drama-free," Rayna said, and before Evelyn could respond, Rayna''s phone buzzed again, and she returned her attention to her phone while Evelyn shook her head. ET: [Since your best friend is there, why don''t we chatter? Maybe we can talk about meeting soon. I''d like you to be the first person I go on a date with. That way, I don''t have to meet any of the others if things go well between us.]

    278

    11.03 AM d

    Golden Sun: [Sure. Let''s talk about thatter. I''ll text you after she leaves.]

    Rayna set aside her phone and turned her attention to Evelyn, "Guess what?" Rayna asked excitedly.

    "What?" Evelyn asked when she saw the gleam in Rayna''s eyes.

    "He wants us to meet soon. And I think I might get married in two weeks if our date goes well," Rayna said happily.

    Two weeks?" Evelyn asked in disbelief.

    "Yeah. So, get ready to n my wedding. I have a feeling our date is going to be perfect, and he will be my perfect man," Rayna said with a dreamy

    smile.

    "I was sort of hoping things would work out between you and Ethan. You know, the whole Destiny stuff. It would have been nice for us to date two best friends." Evelyn said, and Rayna snorted. "I don''t care about Ethan. He can go to hell for all I care."

 Chapter 132

    As Rayna prepared lunch for her and Evelyn, she suddenlyughed when she remembered what Ethan had said about being a girl dad, and Evelyn nced at her with a raised eyebrow.

    "Hello? Should Ibe worried? Is everything okay mentally?" Evelyn asked with a teasing smile.

    Rayna giggled. "Sure. Ijust remembered something ET said. How many kids would you like to have, Evie?"

    Derek and Ishould get married for real, then I''l have one more since we have Sam already. That''s two kids. Why? Don''t tell me you''re already discussing kids with him?" Evelyn said incredulously.

    Rayna grinned, "He asked me. We both want three. The discussion made me so hot. Icouldn''t help but imagine the act that would lead us there. It''s been so long since Ihad sex," Rayna said, and Evelyn giggled, shaking her head. "I can''t believe you''re thinking of sex with a random stranger. You don''t even know his real name," Evelyn said, amused.

    "Helo,

    Pot! Im'' not the one that banged a random stranger on the same day we met and found out his name six yearster after

    his child the whole time, duh," Rayna said, and Evelyn hissed, feigning offense as she sat down on the couch.

    having his chil

    "You''re such a bitch, you know that?" She asked as she threw a slice of carrot into her mouth.

    Raynaughed. "Hate

    the message, not the messenger, baby. I speak nothing but the truth," Rayna said as she stirred the vegetables she was frying.

    "How many times do need ot keep telling you that Iwasn''t ni my

    right senses when Ihad sex with Derek?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna rolled her eyes.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    "I won''t be ni my right senses when Ihave sex with ET either," Rayna said with a grin.

    "Go ahead then. Have sex with him and have ten or twenty kids. Who cares?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna winked at her.

    "You do. And no, Idon''t want more than three. Just three is okay. Three is a nice number. Not too many to drive you crazy," Rayna

    then decided ti was time to change the subject.

    said, then

    "So", she began, changing the subject, "the reunion si next weekend. Have you gotten something to wear?"

    "I can pick from al the clothes ni my closet, and I''m sure fi you don''t like them, you''ll find me something to wear, Evelyn said dismissively. "True that.

    but was

    thinking we should get something nice. Derek will be there after all. With that bitch. We can''t let her outshine you," Rayna said, and Evelyn scoffed. "Sandra could never outshine me. And Idoubt there is anything

    be there with her for me, not her," Evelyn said confidently.

    she could do to take Derek''s attention from me. Derek W best for YOUR man. Istill can''t believe you''re letting him go with her. I''m too much of a jealous lover ot do something like that," Rayna said, and Evelyn gave her a wry smile.

    "Still, my dear we need to make s sure you look look your Imean. Idon''t mind. Ilike to return favors, remember? Sandra lent me Michael six years ago, so I''m just lending her my man in return."

    "Yeah, I

    Rayna burst outughing. "That''s abitchy thing to say. Istill can''t believe those two fools actually tried to me you for their screw-up the other night. It''s hrious and pathetic at the same time!" "klnow. I''m I''m honestly looking forward to to seeing how this al unfolds," Evelyn said, a yful glint in her eyes. "And Im'' looking forward of the You''re not a very nice person, you know that, right?"

    reunion. tl wil tl wil be fun to see who''s gotten fatter, balder, or somehow married rich. Ilike how everyone likes to act sessful at reunions," Rayna said, and Evelyn shook her head, amused.

    I"know you love me that way. So, you''re resuming work on Monday, right?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn smiled, but her expression turned thoughtful.

    "Yes. Iwant t t to see exactly what Sandra''s next move is. Iwonder what rumors she is going to peddle about me and the troubles she wil cause for me," Evelyn said with a smallugh. Rayna shook her head ni disbelief. "You are beginning to thrive on this drama, aren''t you?"

    Evelyn smiled mischievously. "It''s the least Ican do. Ididn''t ask for any of this. But now that they''ve brought ti ot me. No problem." "Speaking of which, the new house is is ti close to the office?" e office?" Rayna asked curiously.

    It''s a bit of a drive, but Idon''t mind. The neighborhood is perfect for Sam and is not too far from her school."

    reallydded

    That''s what matters. As!

    s long as Sam is happy."

    Rayna nodded approvingly. "That''s what

    "Speaking of Sam, Ishould check in with Derek. See how they''re doing." Evelyn said as she picked up her phone. Before she could dial his line, her phone rang with a call from Liam, and she received the call immediately.

    "Hey, Doc!" Evelyn answered with a wide smile, and Rayna raised a brow.

    "Hey, Editor-in-chief!" Liam''s familiar voice came through, ful of energy, and Evelyn winced, realizing that he didn''t know she lost her job.

    "Guess what?" He asked before she could make up her mind

    whether or not to tell him she was no longer working at Empowered.

    "Surprise me," Evelyn said, curious to hear what he had to say.

    "I''m ni ni Ludus!" He announced.

    "For real? You''re kidding, right?" She asked ni disbelief, and he chuckled.

    "No. I''m not "

    NO,

    "What are you doing ni Ludus? When did youe in?" Evelyn asked excitedly.

    "I''m here for a medical conference. Id'' love to see you and Sam tomorrow fi you''re free," he said, and Evelyn''s face lit up.

    "Are you serious? That''s amazing! Ihaven''t seen you ni forever. Of

    course, we''re free. I''l text you my address, and you cane by for a visit."

    a few more pleasantries, Evelyn hung up and turned to Rayna, who was watching her curiously.

    Liam?" Rayna asked,

    her

    eyes narrowing ni I suspicion. "Who''s this Liam?"

    i y when Iwas pregnant with Sam."

    "Liam''s my friend. He was my

    a leaned ni with a grin. "Oh. Nice. Is he

    vice. Is he single?"

    Tolled her eyes, chuckling. "You have a problem, Rayna. You can''t hear about a man without wanting to date him."

    Raynaughed along. "Okay, okay! Ipromise

    ????

    How

    I stop. after Im'' married. But I''m curious, though. If he was your OB/GYN, that meant he delivered Sam, right? And he saw your kitty?" Evelyn looked at her incredulously, "What What are you driving at?" who has been there without being there?" Rayna asked with a grin.

    do you stay friends with a man

    Evelyn shook her head with amusement, "I''m not going to dignify that question with a response," Evelyn said as she dialed Derek while Rayna scowled at her yfully. how''s ti going?" Evelyn asked when the call connected.

    Really

    wel," Derek replied, his tone warm. "We just left my parents'' ce. They absolutely adore Sam." chuckled. "Im'' d

    they do. How''s the date going?" She asked, smiling as she imagined him and Sam together.

    "It''s going smoothly. Were still out and about. Im'' taking her to the Hotel so she can see my suite, and then we wil hang around at the yground before Ibring her back. Do you want to talk to her?" "Of course!" Evelyn said brightly.

    Asecondter, Sam''s cheerful voice came through the phone. "Mommy! Imet Grandparents Stone! They''re so fun!"

    Evelyn smiled, confused. "Grandparents Stone? What do you mean by that, sweetie?"

    "My other grandparents are grandparents Quinn!" Sam rified, her logic delightfully simple.

    Both Evelyn and Derek burst intoughter. "I guess that makes sense!" Evelyn said, still giggling.

    As they continued

    "Hey, Sandra''s calling, Derek''s phone beeped with another iing call.

    Derek said after ncing at the

    the screen.

    Evelyn rolled her eyes at the mention of Sandra. "I I wonder what she has to say this time. Im'' with Ray, so I''l let you go. Just call me when you''re done, okay?"

    "Sure. Love you," Der Derek said before hanging up, and he took Sandra''s call.

    "Helo, pretty!" Derek greeted smoothly, and Samantha scowled, hearing him call someone else that.

    Seeing the frown on her face, Derek grinned at her through the rearview mirror and ced a finger on his lips so she wouldn''t say anything.

    "Don''t pretty me. Why haven''t heard from you since ourst date?" Sandra asked with a pout.

    to snort at her tone. He was amused that she felt she was special enough toin this way.

    Derek resisted sted the urge to

    "I''m sorry, Sandra. I''ve been so busy; You should have called or texted," Derek said apologetically.

    Sandra sighed. "I''ve been missing you. When can we meet?" Sandra''s voice was soft and sweet.

    "I was actually thinking we could have dinner tomorrow. With my parents," Derek suggested, knowing that his mother wouldn''t mind such an impromptu arrangement.

    He wanted Sandra and Michael together for what he nned to do next. He wanted ot see how they would escape his trap.

    Sandra''s voice perked up in surprise. "Your parents? You mean it?"

    "Yeah. We''re nning to get married, so I think it''s time you meet my family. And soon, ''ll meet yours too," Derek promised, and he sighed inwardly when he saw the hurt in Samanthan''s eyes as though he was betraying her. Sandra couldn''t contain her excitement. "That''s wonderful! I''d love that," Sandra said, already thinking of what to wear. After a few more excited exchanges, they hung up, leaving Sandra eagerly anticipating their dinner.

 Chapter 133

    After Derek''s phone call with Sandra, he turned to face Samantha, whose tiny arms were crossed. Her little face scrunched in

    frustration as she red up at him with teary eyes. I" want to go home," Samantha announced.

    "Our date isn''t over yet, princess. We have to."

    "I don''t want to go with you anymore. Iwant to go home," she said, and although Derek was amused, he felt sorry.

    "Why not?" He asked, and a tear dropped from her eyes.

    "You said someone

    I re

    else was pretty!" she used, her voice trembling with indignation.

    Although they were still parked by the roadside, Derek got out of the car and went to meet her, trying his best to exin. "Sam, sweetheart, Iwas just being nice. It doesn''t mean anything. You''re still the prettiest little girl Iknow, and your mom-" I" don''t care!" Samantha interrupted, her bottom lip quivering as her eyes filled with tears. "You want to marry that otherdy, not my mommy!" "No, no,

    Derek blinked, taken aback by the sudden outburst. mom. You''re upset over nothing, Ipromise."

    darling, that''s not true at al. Ionly want I to marry your mom.

    arms

    But Samantha wasn''t having it. it. She turned her head I Derek sighed and rubbed his forehead, unsure of how to fix this. He shouldn''t have had Take me home," she demanded, her voice shaking. I don''t want to be here anymore. You don''t love us. You want to be with her!"

    had that conversation with Sandra in front of

    Samantha. He had made the mistake of assuming Samantha was a kid and wouldn''t take something like that seriously.

    He reached for his phone, deciding it was time ot call for backup. Evelyn would definitely know how to handle this.

    "Babe?"

    '' he said when she answered. "We''ve ''ve got a a little situation here."

    "What''s wrong?" Evelyn asked, sounding concerned when she heard the worry in his voice. Derek nced at the sulking child and sighed again. "wl as on the phone with Sandra and..."

    eahughter echoed through the phone. "Let me guess, Sam''s mad at you for talking to anotherdy?"

    and it''s not

    rek groaned, "oed ood. Apparently, Icalled Sandra ''pretty'' and told her toe over for dinner with my parents tomorrow since we n ot get married. You know, that sort of talk, and now Sam thinks I want to marry someone else instead of you."

    I through the phone. "Aww, my baby has my back. Well, that serves you right, Derek. How could you call anotherdy? Especially ni pretty in front of your daughter? I fully support Samantha on this one." Come on, that''s not fair. You know know why Ihad

    "Alright, alright. Put her on the phone." Evelyn said, still giggling do that. Could you talk to her, please? She''s crying now, and I''m not sure how to make this better.

    Derek handed the phone to Samantha, who hesitated before taking it. She held ti up ot her ear, sniffling. "Mommy?"

    "Hey, baby," Evelyn''s voice came through warmly." "Derek didn''t mean what you think. He was just being sily. You know he loves you and me, right?" Samantha wiped her nose with with her sleeve. "But he said she was pretty. What fi he wants ot marry her and not you?"

    chuckled softly. "Sweetie, do do you remember the new house we just got? Who do you think is going ot live there with us?"

    ely that

    for amoment, her brow furrowing. "You, me. and Rek?"

    Great! They were back to Rek again, from Daddy to Rek.

    And do you think your daddy would want ot live ni a new house with us fi he didn''t love us?"

    Samantha''s expression softened, and she bit her lip. "No."

    "That''s right. He loves us very much, and we''re going to live

    happily ever after,

    just like you always wanted. He si your daddy, and we''re al going ot be together. Does that sound good?" Samantha smiled a little, her eyes brightening. "Yes, Mommy."

    "Okay then. Can then. Can you forgive him now?"

    ??

    Samantha hesitated, ncing at Derek, who was watching her nervously. I guess so", she finally said into the phone. "Good girl," Evelyn praised. "Now give Derek the phone back."

    n''s

    smiled as she handed the phone to Derek, who gave her a relieved smile before speaking to Evelyn. "Thank you. You saved me."

    voice was teasing. "Don''t get toofortable. You owe us big time for calling someone else pretty."

    "tl wil never happen again, Ipromise," Derek said, looking at Samantha with a wink before hanging up.

    I"love you, Princess. And Ilove your mommy, too. Never forget that, okay?" Derek said, and Samantha smiled wide, the angerpletely washed away. "Okay, Daddy. I forgive you," she said, and Derek rxed as he got back into the car.

    Derek made a mental note not to underestimate feminine jealousy at any age.

    Acouple of

    of hourster, after showing her around the Hotel and spending time with her at the yground, Derek was on the phone with Evelyn again, ready to take Samantha home. heading home now. Are you still at Rayna''s?" "Yeah," Evelyn replied. "But I''l be on my way now."

    "Want to pick me up on your way?" Derek asked, and when she agreed, he asked her to text him the location before hanging up. Ashort whileter, Derek pulled up to Rayna''s apartment, and Evelyn hopped into the car. She nced at the backseat and

    noticed Samantha was unusually quiet. "Is she asleep?" Evelyn asked with a smile.

    Derek nodded. "Out like a light. It''s been a big day for her."

    "So, did you both have lots of fun?" Evelyn asked, and Derek told her all they had done.

    "

    "What about you?" Derek asked when he was done.

    won''t believe that Rayna ran into your best friend at the grocery store today," she said with a smirk.

    Derek chuckled. "Oh yeah? What happened?"

    Evelyn recounted the story Rayna had told her, and Derekughed. "We really need to figure out a way to get those two to make up", he said.

    Evelyn grinned. I''was thinking the same thing. Maybe we should invite them both to the housewarming party after we move in next week." Derek nodded. "Good idea. Only that Ididn''t know we were having a party."

    Evelynughed, "It''s not a party party. They''re the only ones we are inviting. You know, my best friend and your best friend," she said with a wink, and Derek chuckled.

    After a few minutes of silence, Evelyn spoke up again. By the way,

    what''s your n? Why did you invite Sandra to dinner with your family?"

    Derek sighed. "It''s not just Sandra. Michael wil be there too. Michael doesn''t want her to know about the Hotel incident, so I''m going to do ti for him the same way he helped me tell them about you when the magazine scandal came up. Iwant to make sure my mother investigates the hotel incident herself. I''m sure she wil do a thorough job of ti just to make me stay away from you." Evelyn nodded, understanding his reasoning but still feeling uneasy. "Just be careful, Derek."

    "?

    "Uhm. a l

    friend of mine is visiting tomorrow. His name is Liam, Evelyn said, and Derek turned to spare her a nce. "Liam si a female name, right?" He asked, and

    wil, he

    a Doctor

    assured her as he reached for her hand and raised it to his lips.

    "Who

    Liam; Ididn''t say HER

    and she giggled.

    HER name," she said, making him re at her.

    I"said HIS name is

    WHO this Liam, and where is heing from?" He asked irritably, and sheughed.

    Remembering what Rayna had said about Liam seeing her Kitty, she decided not to mention that he was her OB/GYN.

    "He''s a t a friend and has been very helpful al these years. Imet him while Iwas pregnant. He''s very dear to Samantha and me. He''s in Ludus for a medical conference and wants to say helo," she said, and Derek narrowed his eyes. married Iman with three kids," "he said, and sheughed. and

    "Tell me he is a middle-aged single. Why are you asking that?" Evelyn asked, amused.

    "No.

    and

    "Is eh interested ni

    he isn''t. Hes? you? Dere

    asked, and Evelyn shook her head.

    "Alright.

    "I don''t think so. He''s been a supportive friend and has never given me any reason ot think he wants more than just friendship," she said, and Derek sighed.

    tl should remain that way. He doesn''t live ni Ludus, right? That means when he''s going to return to wherever he came from

    after his conference," Derek said, and Evelyn giggled. "You have nothing to worry about," she promised.

    Once they reached Evelyn''s house, Derek carried the sleeping

    Samantha inside, and gently ced her ni bed. As he headed back

    to his car, Evelyn followed him to the door, and he kissed her softly before leaving.

    As he drove away, he called his father. "Hey, Dad. So, what did Mom think of Samantha?"

    His father''s voice came through warmly. "You saw for yourself that she loved her. Samantha is a wonderful little girl, Derek. Your mother will be over the moon when she finds out Samantha is your kid.

    Derek smiled. "hlope she remains over the moon when she finds already invited Sandra. If Mom is close by, you can pass her the phone so Ican let her know Sandra wille over tomorrow," Derek said, and his father raised a brow.

    "Your Mom left the house a while ago. What''s happening at dinner tomorrow?" He asked, and Derek told him about al that happened.

    "I see. Wel, Ihave made some findings about Michael myself.

    After

    you told me about him the first time, I''ve been looking into him, and I''ve found out some pretty interesting stuff that would

    shock your mother," he said, and Derek frowned. "What did you find?" Derek asked curiously.

    After they both discussed the details of al they had on Michael, Derek hung up and called his mother.

    "Why are you calling me after we met just hours ago?" His mother asked curiously when she received the call.

    She was on her way back from theb, where she had gone ot

    submit Derek and Samantha''s DNA samples. She had told them she wanted it treated as urgent.

    to let you know I invited Sandra to dinner tomorrow. I think it''s time we meet both families," Derek said, and his mother''s face lit up with a smile.

    "Derek! Finaly! You''re making the right decision," she said 8/9

    "Oh.

    out Evelyn is the mother."This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    "Don''t worry, she won''t have a choice," his father promised.

    "Dad, Ineed you to invite Michael over for dinner tomorrow.

    Derek smiled but didn''t respond. He knew his mother thought he was moving toward marrying Sandra, but she was going to be disappointed.

    happily, thinking that he was giving in because he no longer wanted to be on bad terms with her.

 Chapter 134

    After a day of pampering at the spa and a fun shopping spree, Sandra walked into her house feeling energized.

    After the stress Evelyn had put her through during the week, she had decided that she needed ot rx her body and mind so she could think straight ande up with better ideas to get rid of Evelyn

    And what better way was there for her ot destress than a shopping spree?

    Bags of new clothes and shoes dangled from her arms as she made her way through the hal. She couldn''t wait for her dinner with the Stones the next evening. She had everything nned out perfectly ni her head- her outfit, the conversation, and how impressed they would be with her. She would make sure to win Mr Stone''s heart as she had won his wife''s heart, Sandra thought with a smile, thinking of the tie and cufflink she had picked up for him.

    As she passed her parents'' bedroom, she decided to stop and let them know she was back. She also wanted to ask them when she

    could invite Derek over for dinner so they could officially meet her fianc¨¦.N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    Just as Sandra raised a hand to knock, she heard her father''s voice through the door.

    I"still can''t believe Evelyn raised Samantha al by herself. Al these years, she''s been doing it alone, without asking for help," her father said, his tone a mix of admiration and disbelief. Sandra''s hand froze on the doorknob. Samantha? Her heart skipped a beat as she listened more closely.

    ," her mother replied.

    ne''s done a great job, her moth

    Ive been thinking about what to do about al the birthdays we have missed. We have to make ti up to her somehow. Maybe get Samantha presents for each of the five years we have missed?"

    Her mother chuckled kled softly. "Yeah.

    Isuppose you''re agrandpa now. Inever thought you''d be saying that. And about the gifts, we can throw her a big party for her sixth birthdaying up soon." Sandra''s mouth dropped open. Grandpa? Sixth birthday? The

    pieces of the conversation clicked together ni ni her mind. Samantha. fl her father ther was that meant Evelyn had a child.

    talking about being a grandped back from the door. ndra''s eyes widened as she stepped

    No way. Sandra''s

    Not wanting them to know she had heard them, she hurried off to her room, her mind spinning.

    Evelyn, the perfect daughter, has a daughter, Sandra mused, unable to believe it. The moment she entered her room, she threw her shopping bags on the bed.

    Sandra remembered hearing her mother ask about Sam and Maya over the phone thest time, and when she tailed her mother to Evelyn''s house, she remembered seeing a pink bike in the yard.

    given it much thought at the time, but now everything nade sense.

    Was Evelyn married? No. She highly doubted that Evelyn was married. fl Evelyn were married, she would know, and Evelyn wouldn''t be threatening her about wanting Derek.

    She stopped pacing when she remembered her mother talking about a sixth birthday. Even though they had been using Evelyn of cheating on Michael this whole time, Sandra knew that Evelyn wasn''t that sort of person. She had loved Michael to a fault, so there was no way she could have cheated on him. Did that mean Evelyn had a child for Michael? Evelyn had

    Michael''s child? She mused, wondering whether she should be amused or not.

    If her n to take pictures of Michael and Evelyn on the bed together had worked, this would have been the perfect way to pin everything on them.

    She resumed pacing the room again, her anger growing with each step. How could Michael impregnate Evelyn? That had not been part of their n. Was Michael aware that Evelyn had been pregnant at the time of their wedding?

    She snatched her phone off the bed and dialed Michael''s number. It rang once before he answered.

    "Hey, Sandy, what''s

    up?"

    "Where are you?" she snapped.

    "Uh, Im'' at home. Why?"

    "Stay there. Im''ing over right now," she said, her voice shaking with fury.

    "Sandra, what''s going on?" Michael asked, but she had already

    hung up.

    Sandra grabbed her keys and rushed out of the house. It wasn''t long before she was standing outside Michael''s door, her heart racing with anger as she tried ot unlock .ti

    Michael, who had been waiting for her, opened the door from inside, looking confused, but Sandra pped him hard across the face before he could say anything.

    "You bastard!" she yeled. "How could you do this to me?" She asked as she walked into the house.

    Michael''s eyes widened ni shock. "Sandra, what the hel hase over you, and what are you talking about?"

    "You know what I''m talking about! Have you always nned to betray me? Is that what the camera in the hotel room was about?"

    Sandra''s voice cracked with emotion.

    "I don''t have the time nor patience for this nonsense, Sandra! And stop talking to me about betrayal when you''re the one who drugged me! What the heck is wrong with you? Why would youe to my house and hit me without a reason?" Michael asked angrily. "Without a reason? Did you just say I don''t have a reason? You got Evelyn pregnant, you bastard!"

    Michael looked stunned. "What? No, that''s impossible. Ialways used protection with Evelyn. There''s no way she could have had my kid."

    "How am Isupposed to believe that?" Sandra shot back, her voice trembling with rage. I" saw a little girl''s bike outside her house the

    Michael blinked, his mind racing. He hadn''t known that Evelyn had a child. He needed to figure out what was going on.

    "Evelyn has a

    a child? Calm down and talk to me, wil you? Your anger isn''t going to solve anything. Iswear to you, Inever had sex with Evelyn without a condom..."

    "So, are you saying she had sex with someone else? We both know Evelyn wasn''t that sort of person," Sandra said, and Michael sighed.

    "Okay, listen," Michael said slowly, trying ot calm Sandra down. I" didn''t know Evelyn had a kid. But I''l find out. I''l go to her ce tomorrow and see for myself, and Iwill get her to tell me if the child is mine. Don''t worry..." "Worry? I''m not worried, Michael. But you should be. You who should be worried if that child is yours because Iwon''t forgive you

    for it," Sandra snapped at him and stormed away without waiting for a response.

    Michael rubbed his face and let out a deep sigh as he watched her go.

    Evelyn had a child? For him? Michael mused, not sure how to febout that information.

    Did she leave six years ago because she found out about him and Sandra and didn''t want him to know about their baby?

 Chapter 135

    Sunday arrived, and the house was filled with the warm smell of freshly baked bread and the hum of quiet activity.

    Samantha bounced around the living room, her excitement bubbling over. "I Liaming soon, Mommy?" she asked for what felt like the hundredth time, her eyes sparkling with joy. "Yes, sweetheart, Evelyn

    "And he wil bring my dld, smiling at her daughter''s enthusiasm. "He''ll be here any minute."

    and

    For your sake, Ihope he remembers," Evelyn said, and Samantha grinned.

    "Liam never forgets" Samantha said confidently and rushed to the window to peer out.

    She couldn''t wait to see Liam. He was one of her favorite people. He always brought her something small- sometimes a toy,

    sometimes just a funny story- but his visits always made her happy no matter what.

    Maya noticed Samantha''s excitement as she carried a basket ofundry through the hallway. "Looks like someone is really looking forward to seeing Liam today," Maya teased softly. Samantha giggled and nodded, her little face glowing with happiness. "ml'' gonnashowhimmynewdollsandtellhimabout my Daddy."

    Maya chuckled. "Im'' sure he''ll love that, dear." She continued on her way, giving Samantha a wink before heading to theundry room.

    Just then, the sound of a car pulling up outside made Samantha jump up with a squeal. "He''s here! He''s here!"

    Evelyn

    "Liam!"

    "Hey,

    "Im''

    Liam

    wiped her hands on a towel and followed her daughter to the door. Before she could even reach it, Liam was already stepping onto the porch, a friendly grin on his face. He held a small bag ni his hand, clearly for Samantha. Samantha yelled as she flung open the door and jumped into his arms.

    Liamughed, lifting her up easily. I" missed you. How''s my favorite girl?"

    him tight. "Ddi

    Samantha beamed, squeezing and held up the little bag. "You bet. HD you bring my doll?" with excited, handing it to her. her eyes wide ¨¤ said,

    "Thank you, Liam!" am!" Samantha

    he

    excitement.

    She wiggled out of his arms and ran back into the house to check out her new doll. Liam stepped inside, greeting Evelyn with a warm smile. "Hey, you."

    on her

    lips. "Come in. Wer''e just getting everything ready for lunch."

    "Hey, yourself," she replied, a soft smile ying with a weing smile. "It''s Good to see you again, Liam," she said. As Liam stepped into the house, Maya appeared with

    "Good of see you too, Maya. How''s everything?" Liam asked, his tone easy and friendly.

    Maya smiled softly. "Busy, but good. Samantha''s keeping me on my toes as usual."

    like

    Liam grinned and gave a a mock sigh.s like her.

    "Come over ot the kitchen, Liam. Im'' still busy ni here," Evelyn said, and Liam went in with her to the kitchen.

    Liam watched as

    Evelyn nced over her

    she shoulder, s

    vegetables on the kitch

    on the kitchen counter. "Need any help with lunch?" shaking her head. "Nah, I''ve got

    ti under control. You can just t keep mepany and tell me how you''ve been."

    "Wel, I''ve missed you and and Sammy. My life has

    Liam nodded and leaned casually against the counter, watching as she moved around the kitchen with ease. It feltfortable and natural to be there with her. life has been al about work, as usual. Nothing fun," Liam said, and Evelyn raised a brow. "So, what conference brought you ot Ludus?"

    "Just work." Liam sald, not wanting to tel here asked curiously.

    "St

    "So, what about you? How

    yet that he was considering moving to Ludus.

    How has everything been since west talked?" Liam asked, folding his arms across his chest. "Settling in okay?"

    Evelyn paused for amoment, her smile faltering j

    Liam raised an eyebrow. "What kind of Evabit. "Yeah, everything''s been perfect for the most part." She hesitated, then added, "But Ihad a little problem at work."

    I" don''t work with Empowered anymore," elyn admitted, her voice calm but carrying a hint of something more profound. Liam frowned ni concern. "What happened? Ithought you loved it there."

    Evelyn shrugged, continuing

    to chop the vegetables. "tl just didn''t work out. There were some...plications. But it''s fine. I''m moving on". "Wel, as long as you''re okay," Liam said, watching her closely. "If you ever need anything, you know Im'' here, right?"

    Evelyn smiled at him, grateful for his steady support. I" know. Thanks, Liam. Ireally appreciate it".

    Before their conversation could go any further, the doorbell rang. "Are you expecting someone else?" Liam asked curiously.

    "That must be the delivery," Evelyn said, ncing at the clock. "I ordered a few things for dessert."

    Liam pushed himself of the counter. "II'' get it. You''re busy, and Maya''s still working on theundry."

    "Thanks," Evelyn said with a smile.

    Michael stood at the door, his thoughts swirling with questions. He couldn''t shake the idea of Evelyn''s little girl possibly being his daughter. But could it really be true? He needed to know. His stomach was tight with anticipation as he waited for her to get

    the door, but when the door opened, it wasn''t Evelyn who answered.

    Instead, a tall man with dark hair stood ni the doorway, looking at Michael with curiosity.

    "Are you the delivery guy?" Liam asked, looking Michael over and wondering why he wasn''t carrying any package.

    Michael''s brow furrowed. "Who are you?" he asked, not wanting ot believe that Evelyn had another man in her life. But seeing how he

    answered the door and how at home he looked, Michael couldn''t help but think he was Evelyn''s man.

    Liam cocked a brow. I" take ti you''re not the delivery guy then."

    Before Michael could answer, Evelyn appeared behind Liam, her eyes narrowing when she saw who ti was. "What do you want here, Michael?" she asked coldly.

    Michael''s gaze shifted from Liam ot Evelyn, "Who si he?" Michael asked, and Evelyn resisted the urge tough.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    "Like you have a right to ask me that nonsense. Liam, let''s go in," Evelyn said while Liam looked at Michael, wondering who he was.

    I" need ot talk

    Iot talk ot you, Evie. Let mee in" eh said, stopping

    Evelyn before efore she could shut the door.

    Evelyn

    door.

    scoffed. "Someone like you isn''t wee ni my home. fl you have something ot say, you can say ti right here."

    Michael clenched his j jaw. "Fine. "Fine. Who''s this guy?" He nodded toward Liam, who was watching their exchange with mild curiosity.

    "That''s none of your business," "Evelyn replied sharply. "What do you want here, Michael?"

    "First, Iwant to know what happened between you and Sandra at

    the club and why you took pictures of us," he said, wanting ot start with that since he was curious about that.

    Evelyn''s lips curled into a smile, but ti wasn''t a kind one. "Why are you asking me that? Weren''t you both ni on the n together? You both tried to drug me and take pictures of us together, didn''t you?" Michael frowned, "Why would Iwant to do something like that?"

    "Beats me. I''ve been wondering the same thing. Unless you''re telling me you''re not aware that Sandra tried to drug me and take

    me to your hotel suite. Itook those pictures because Ineeded

    something ot protect myself," Evelyn said, and Michael blinked, confused.

    "What are you talking about?"

    Evelyn crossed her arms, her eyes glinting. "nl simple terms, I switched Sandra''s drink. She tried to drug me. From the way you were passed out, I''m guessing her n was to set me up with you ni bed and take pictures. But I turned the tables on her". Michael''s mouth fell open, and for a moment, he couldn''t find the

    words. "Sandra. tried ot drug you?" He could hardly believe what he was hearing.

    Was that the reason she had drugged him? She had been nning to set him up with Evelyn? Why?

    "Yes," Evelyn said, her voice t. "Now, fi that''s al you came for, I think it''s time for you to leave."

    "No. That''s not al. Ihave another question," he said, but he heard a soft giggle from inside the house before he could ask.

    Michael''s head snapped toward the sound. "Who''s that? Is that. a kid?"

    Evelyn''s face hardened. "That''s none of your concern, Michael."

    Michael''s mind raced. He needed to know the truth. Without thinking, he pushed past Liam and barged into the house.

    "Michael, stop!" Evelyn shouted, but he wasn''t listening.

    Samantha sat on the floor ni the living room, ying with a doll. When she looked up and saw Michael, her big blue eyes blinked ni surprise.

    Michael froze. This was Evelyn''s daughter. Was it possible she was his?

    Evelyn stormed over, her face red with anger. I''want you to leave now."

    Sensing the tension in the room, Samantha quickly rose and ran to

    hide behind Evelyn.

    Before Michael could respond, Liam stepped ni front of him. "You heard her. It''s time for you to go". Michael''s

    mind

    I was spinning. He looked from Samantha to Liam and back to Evelyn, anger ring up inside him.

    "Is she mine?" Michael asked, looking at Evelyn.

    "I have nothing that belongs ot you, and you, of al people, should know that there''s no possibility of me having your child, so get lost!" Evelyn snapped.

    Hearing this, Michael''s face reddened, "So, this si the guy, huh? He is her father, isn''t he? Ican''t believe you, Evelyn. You''ve been acting like you''re so innocent, but you''re nothing but "-a

    Liam didn''t wait for Michael to finish. He shoved Michael out the door forcefully, and Michael stumbled back, his head still reeling from everything he had just seen.

    "The next time you show your face around here, Im'' going to call the police," ¨¦velyn promised before mming the door in his face.

 Chapter 136

    Evelyn''s breath hitched as she turned from the door to see Samantha''s little face pale and frightened. She wrapped her arms tightly around Evelyn''s leg, her small body trembling. "I''m sorry about that, baby. Were you very startled?" Evelyn asked as she patted Samantha''s hair.

    who was that man?" Samantha asked, her voice barely a whisper. Evelyn knelt down, cupping her daughter''s face gently.

    "Mommy, that

    that was just someone Mommy used to know. He''s gone now," Evelyn said softly, brushing Samantha''s hair away from her face. "You don''t have to worry about him." "But he scared me," Samantha whimpered, clinging to her mother. baby. You''re safe. No one will hurt you. I promise."

    Evelyn pulled her into a a warm embrace. "It''s okay,

    at the

    As Evelyn held her close, Mayan nodded, knowway, her eyes flicking between the two. "Sammy,e introduce me to your new baby, will you? Mommy needs to finish up in the kitchen," Maya called softly.

    Evelyn hesitated for a a moment, then

    Maya

    had always been afort to Samantha. "Go show Maya your new doll while I finish up," she said, kissing Samantha''s temple. Maya scooped Samantha up gently, whispering soothing words as she carried her toward the bedroom. Evelyn sighed, feeling the weight of the morning settling into her bones. She turned back toward the kitchen and found Liam standing there, his face filled with concern.

    "Evie," Liam said, stepping closer. "Who is Michael? Is he Samantha''s father?"

    Evelyn shook her head quickly. "No, Michael''s not her father. He''s... he''s my ex-fianc¨¦."

    Liam''s brow furrowed, and he exhaled slowly, looking a little relieved. "I see. I just... I''m sorry if I overstepped."

    shook her head, feeling a mix of emotions. "No, Liam, you didn''t overstep. I''m sorry for the embarrassment. I didn''t want you to get involved."

    gave e her a soft smile. "You don''t need to

    Evelyn shook

    Liam t need to apologize. I''m d I was here. If he had done anything more, I wouldn''t have let him." Evelyn smiled back, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you.

    I I should get back to the kitchen," she said, and Liam followed her back in.

    they returned to the kitchen, Evelyn hesitated for a

    Evelyn took a a breath, ready to say something, but before she thinking that this might be a good time to tell Liam about Derek. could, Liam spoke first.

    "I wanted to tell you something," he said, his voice hesitant yet steady.

    have s

    something to tell you, too. But you can go first," Evelyn said with a small smile.

    Liam looked down at his hands for a moment before meeting her eyes again. "Evie, I know that what I''m about to say mighte as a surprise to you. The thing is, Ilike you. I''ve always liked you, but I thought it was just tonic love, you know? Like family. That''s why I "But after you left Hu, I realized... it wasn''t just that. I was in love with you." Evelyn''s breath caught in in

    never acted on it." He chuckled nervously processed his words, her mind spinning. Liam? In love with her? Did that mean Margaret had been right about it all this time?

    n her throat as she

    "I know it''s sudden, and maybe I should''ve said something sooner, but I want to be part of your life, Evie. If you''ll have me." Liam''s eyes were sincere, his voice filled with emotion.

    Evelyn''s heart thumped i in her chest, and thankfully, before Liam could go further, the doorbell rang again, cutting through the tension like a knife.

    I get that," she said quickly, turning away before Liam could say more. Her heart pounded as she hurried to the door, her thoughts jumbled.

    When she opened the door, she was met with Derek''s familiar face, his expression one of concern. "Is everything alright? What are you doing here?" she asked, surprised to see him.

    Derek nced behind her, his gaze quickly assessing the situation. "I was told Michael came by, and I came as soon as I could," Derek said, reminding her that he had someone on Michael''s tail. Evelyn sighed, her shoulders sagging. "Yeah, he was here. He didn''t do anything, though."

    Before she could say more, Samantha''s excited voice broke through the tension. "Daddy!" she cried, rushing toward Derek with open arms.

    Derek

    "Hey,

    Liam

    crouched down and scooped her up, hugging her tightly.

    princess," ''he murmured, holding her close as he stepped into the house.

    appeared in the kitchen doorway, his eyes widening slightly as he watched Samantha in another man''s arms, calling him

    "Daddy.

    Evelyn''s stomach twisted with difort as she cleared her throat. "Liam, this is Derek, Samantha''s father. Derek, this is Liam, my friend. He was here when Michael showed up and helped me get rid of him."

    Liam gave a tight nod, his face still a little pale. "Nice to meet you," he said, extending his hand.

    Derek shifted Samantha to one arm and shook Liam''s hand firmly.

    "I''ve heard a lot about you, Liam. Thanks for looking out for Evelyn and Samantha all these years."

    Liam managed a small smile. "I was happy to do it."

    Derek nced at Evelyn, his eyes flicking between her and Liam, sensing the tension in the air but choosing to ignore it. "How long are you in town?" Derek asked, changing the subject smoothly. "I''d like to buy you a drink before you leave." Liam shifted awkwardly "I''m leaving tomorrow. Actually, I should probably get going so I can rest up for my flight." "That''s a shame," Derek said, and Evelyn stepped forward, concern etched on her face.

    "You don''t You

    have

    to rush off. Stay for lunch, please," she said, not wanting him to leave just like that.

    But Liam shook his head,ughing lightly. "I think I''ll pass this time. It''s... a little awkward now, don''t you think? I''ll call you when I get settled, I promise." Samantha motioned for Derek to put her down, and when he did, she hugged Liam''s leg, her eyes wide. "I''ll miss you, Liam."

    Liam crouched down to her level, giving her a soft smile. "I''ll miss you too, Sammy. Be good for your mom, okay?" He said, patting her hair fondly. "Always," Sar Samantha promised.

    Liam straightened and looked at Derek. "I''m d Evelyn and Samantha have you to take care of them," he said, and Derek smiled and nodded.

    "I am grateful they had you with them," he said, stepping aside with Samantha as Evelyn escorted Liam to the door.

    Evelyn felt a pang of guilt, knowing his confession hung between them. Her heart was heavy, and she felt a mix of emotions as she opened the door. Liam smiled at her, "Talk about wrong timing, huh?" He asked, and Evelyn forced a smile.

    "I''m sorry..."

    "Don''t be, Evie. I wish I could stay for lunch, but I''m feeling too embarrassed to face you right now. You should be happy. As long as you are happy, it''s worth the heartbreak," he assured her.

    "But we are cool, right?" She asked hopefully, and he nodded.

    "Of course. I''ll let you know when I arrive," he promised.

    After Liam left, Evelyn returned to living room and found Derek sitting in the dining with Samantha happily chattering away as she sat on hisp.

    Ignoring them, she went into the kitchen to continue what she was doing.

    Michael''s visit, Liam''s confession, Derek''s unwavering support- it all swirled together in her mind, making her heart beat a little faster.

    She smiled when Derek''s k''s arms wrapped around her from behind,

    She

    offN?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

    f that way?" He asked.

    m seems like a nice guy. Why did he run "Evelyn said, a hint of amusement in her voice as she turned to face him. ecause you showed up at such a perfect time,

    grinned. "What did I do?" leaning on the counter as he held her close.

    Evelynughed lightly, "he was just telling me how he felt about me when you rang the bell."

    Derek raised an eyebrow, his grin widening. "Ah. I figured something like that was going on." shook her head, still feeling the weight of it all. "Well, you interrupted it."

    Evelyn shoo

    "d I did. So, was that the reason you introduced me as just Samantha''s father?" Derek asked, and Evelynughed.

    "You

    You noticed.

    noticed."

    "Of course I

    I did. Would you have epted him had I not been in the picture?" He asked curiously.

    "I don''t know. Maybe. But not because I''m in love with him. He''s a great guy," Evelyn said with a shrug, "And calling you my boyfriend sounded sort of awkward in my ears. Plus, I thought introducing you as that would be sort of harsh, considering he just confessed to me." Evelyn exined. "Well, for the record, I''m not your baby daddy. That''s not the title I''m here for. And since boyfriend sounds too awkward, let''s work on making it fianc¨¦; how about that?" Derek asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Fianc¨¦, huh? I don''t see a ring," she said, and he shrugged.

    "That''s the easiest part," '' he said, and she grinned.

    "So, what do you like? An borate proposal?" He asked, and she shook her head.

    "No. Nah. I''ve been down that road. I don''t want anything fancy," she said, and he raised a brow.

    "You''ve not been down this road, baby. But if you don''t want anything fancy, that''s fine with me," he said, then his expression grew serious.

    "So, what did Michael want?

    Evelyn exined everything that had happened with Michael.

    Derek listened intently, then chuckled. "Dinner with my parents is going to be... interesting."

    "Why do you say that?" Evelyn asked curiously.

    "I can see Michael bringing it up during dinner. The unfaithful fianc¨¦e who called off her wedding and got pregnant for another man. It''s going to be very interesting. I''m looking forward to it already. Too bad you won''t be there," Derek said with a chuckle. Before Evelyn could respond, Samantha joined them, "Daddy, will you stay for lunch?" Derek nced at Evelyn, who shrugged, a smile tugging at her lips.

    "Of course, baby. Since I''m here and lunch smells amazing, I'' invite myself, Derek said, grinning.

    "What''s on the menu, mama?" He drawled, and both Evelyn and Samanthaughed.

    As they sat down for lunch, Evelyn leaned back in her chair, a wave of warmth and contentment washing over her.

    Derek''s presence, his humor, and Samantha''s innocent joy seemed to fill the room with a lightness that had been missing for so long.

    As she nced at Derek, who was yfully chatting with Samantha, Evelyn realized how much things had changed. How much she had changed.

 Chapter 137

    Michael''s mind was in turmoil as he drove down to the Stone Mansion for dinner. The towering trees lining the route to the house provided nofort as he reyed everything that had happened at Evelyn''s. That was the only thought that had been in his head all day- Evelyn''s betrayal. His grip tightened on the steering wheel as Evelyn''s face popped into his mind once more. The bitch had been cheating on him?

    The thought that she had cheated on him six years ago stung his pride, bruising his ego all over again. He couldn''t believe that she dared to betray him like that and then act like he was the devil.

    Did what they had mean nothing to her? He could understand his rtionship with Sandra, but how could Evelyn cheat like their time together had meant nothing? Hadn''t she loved him? Had she been messing with him? Worse, she had a daughter for the man she had cheated with. A child that could have been his. That thought sent a fresh wave of rage through him, but he pushed it down as the Stone Mansion came into view.

    He had been pleasantly surprised when his uncle called him the previous day and asked him toe over for dinner because it had been a while since theyst saw him, and he missed him.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    But after what had transpired with Evelyn, his whole day was ruined, and he doubted that he could enjoy his meal. He knew he was a bitte, but he was sure they would understand after he told them what happened.

    Pulling up to the mansion he saw Derek''s car parked in the driveway as he got out of the car. Still fuming, he straightened his jacket as he made his way to the front door.

    As soon as he entered the mansion, he was greeted by the familiar warmth of the home. He was about to make his way to the dining room when he spotted Sandra, sitting on one of the grand sofas, chatting with his aunt. His stomach dropped. She had not told him anything abouting here for dinner, so what was she doing here? He did not seen her car parked outside either.

    Seeing her now, his thoughts drifted back to what Evelyn had said earlier.

    Evelyn''s exnation made more sense to him than what Sandra had told him, and it exined why Sandra had asked that they not make a big deal out of the pictures that Evelyn took of them.

    He couldn''t believe that the bitch had been trying to set him up with Evelyn. Just what was Sandra up to? Did she want Derek for herself, and so she tried to discard him now that she thought she was about to achieve her goal? The more he thought about it, the angrier he became that the two women he had trusted had betrayed him.

    "Michael, I was beginning to wonder if you wouldn''t make it," Derek''s Mom said with a smile when she saw him, gesturing for him to join them.

    Sandra nced up, her eyes meeting his. They had not seen nor spoken to each other since she visited his apartment the previous evening. For a moment, neither of them spoke, but they could feel the tension between them.

    "I''m sorry, I''mte," Michael said, shifting his gaze to his aunt.

    Sandra smiled, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "Hello, Mike. I didn''t expect to meet you here."

    "I could say the same for you. This is my home, and I can visit here whenever I want," he said, his voice colder than he intended for his aunt to hear.

    "Derek thought it would be nice for me to join his parents for dinner. I didn''t think you were invited."

    Ignoring Sandra, Michael turned to his aunt, "I saw Derek''s car parked outside. Is he in the study with uncle?"

    "Yes. You know how those two always lock themselves in there to talk about business the slightest chance they get. I''m d I get to have a daughter-inw soon. Now that you''re here, why don''t you go get them and meet us at the dining table, Mrs Stone suggested, and Michael gave her a nod before walking away.

    As Michael made his way to the study to get Derek and his father, his thoughts continued to swirl. He needed to keep an eye on Sandra. Something about her wasn''t right anymore, and maybe it was time to pull the plug on their mission.

    He couldn''t trust her enough to let her marry Derek anymore, not after what he had just learned she nned to do to him.

    Michael knocked on the door when he got to the study, and the moment he stepped inside, both Derek and his father turned to him with happy smiles on their faces.

    After exchanging pleasantries, they made their way to the dining room to join Mrs Stone and Sandra.

    Once they were seated at the long, elegant dining table, Sandra presented the gift to Mr. Stone: a tie and cufflinks she had carefully chosen. Mr. Stone epted them with a gracious smile, thanking her.

    As they began eating, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, but Michael didn''t say much as he ate, and then Derek raised a brow.

    "You seem to be in a foul mood, Mike. What''s wrong?" Derek asked, knowing that Michael was going to talk about Evelyn.

    Derek''s Mom nodded. "I noticed, too. Did something happen, dear?" Mrs Stone asked with concern.

    "Can you believe that Evelyn not only cheated on me, but she had a child for that bastard, too. I guess she called off the wedding because she found out she was pregnant. This whole time she made me feel like it was my fault and I did something wrong," he said, unable to hold back any longer.

    Sandra raised a brow at the mention of Evelyn''s child. After thinking about it after their confrontation the previous day, she had been hoping that the child would be Michael''s so she could use it against him. Now, she was disappointed that the child didn''t seem to be his. Mrs. Stone looked shocked. "What? A daughter?" she asked, her eyes wide with surprise.

    "Yes" Michael said, his tone even. "If I didn''t see the kid and the jerk myself, I never would have believed it. I saw them all together."

    "You saw him? Wow. Even though she is my sister, Evelyn is unbelievable. I can''t believe she has been trying to get Derek when she has a man and a child in her life," Sandra said with a worried frown.

    "Isn''t she your sister? Didn''t you know about the child?" Mr Stone asked Sandra curiously.

    "I only found out about it yesterday. That was when I told Michael because I thought the girl was his considering her age," Sandra said, and Derek smirked.

    So, it was Sandra who told Michael about Samantha, and that was the reason he went to see Evelyn. Interesting. But how did Sandra find out about Samantha, Derek mused.

    Mrs Stone paused, her brow furrowed in thought. "Why would you think that the child is Michael''s? How old is she?" She asked curiously.

    "From what I heard, she will be six soon," Sandra said, and Derek exchanged a look with his father, knowing that his mother was slowly putting the pieces together.

    "Six?" She asked, thinking that Samantha was around that age too,

    "What''s the name of the child?" she asked again.

    "Samantha." Sandra answered.

    Mrs. Stone''s face paled as the pieces clicked together in her mind.

    There was no way it was a coincidence.

    The child Derek had brought home- the little girl- was Evelyn''s daughter. And if Samantha was almost six, that meant... that meant Derek was the father.

    Apart from the fact that she remembered Derek saying he was the one who had been with her the night before the canceled wedding, she still couldn''t shake off the striking resemnce between the kid and Derek''s younger self.

    Evelyn was the mother of that little girl? She mused as she looked at Derek, who was seated across the table from her. Derek met her gaze with a slightly raised eye brow, as though asking her what she nned to do with the information she now had. Derek''s mother looked away from Derek and back to Michael, "So, the man you met at her house, are you sure he is the father of the child? The one she cheated with?" She asked Michael. "Yes. Definitely," Michael said, and Derek resisted the urge to snort.

 Chapter 138

    Derek narrowed his eyes at Michael. "You went to her ce? Did you go to see Evelyn because of the Hotel incident? I hope you confronted her about drugging you?" he asked, his voiceced with hope. "Why are you bringing that up right now?" Michael asked in dismay, annoyed that Derek was talking about it in front of his Mom even though he had told him that he didn''t want their mothers to know.

    Derek leaned forward, his voice tense. "You are the one who brought Evelyn up. I''m just asking a question. By the way, Sandra, why didn''t you tell me what Evelyn did to you?" Derek asked with a concerned frown, startling Sandra, who had not expected that subject to be brought up. Mrs. Stone looked between them, confused. "What are you talking about, Derek?" She asked, wondering what game Derek was ying. "It''s nothing, Aunt," Michael said, not wanting Derek to talk about it.

    Derek didn''t hesitate. "You won''t believe that Evelyn drugged Sandra and Michael. She took pictures of them together in bed to frame them. And Michael''s refusing to do anything about it."

    Michael cler clenched his fists, ring at at Derek. "Why are you bringing this up?"

    "You brought her up first. I thought you were ready to talk about it," Derek snapped. "Didn''t I tell you that if you were not going to do anything about it, I would?"

    Mrs. Stone turned her gaze to Michael, her expression serious. "Is that true? Did Evelyn do that to you?" she asked, looking from Michael to Sandra and then back again.

    Michael shifted ufortably in his seat. He didn''t want to talk about it, but Derek spoke up again, exining the situation in detail to their mother as Michael had told him.

    Sandra couldn''t help feeling trapped. She looked down at her te as Derek spoke, wondering how to approach this without exposing herself.

    Mrs. Stone''s eyes widened when Derek was done. "And you''re not arresting her, Michael? Why?" She asked, even though she still couldn''t understand why Derek was doing this when she knew he cared about Evelyn.

    No. This is

    ispletely uneptable. She has to be arrested. It was one thing for her to go scot-free after tarnishing Derek''s image, but this? We have to arrest her!" Mr Stone said, and both Derek and his mother nodded in agreement. Sandra, her voice soft and hesitant, spoke up. "Evelyn is my sister.

    I don''t want to do anything that might upset my parents further.

    Besides, I have to think about my niece. I don''t want to think about what her little girl will go through if Evelyn is arrested."

    "Nonsense," Mr. Stone interrupted, his voice firm. "Evelyn should have thought about that before doing such a thing. She needs to be held ountable. Honey, make sure you get her arrested."This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    "I agree. I''m not going to let this slide. First, she embarrassed our family, and then she tried to seduce Derek and exposed our family business without authorization, and now she tries to ckmail you two? I''m not going to let her get away with it this time," Mrs Stone said firmly.

    "My friend owns that hotel. Let''s talk to the receptionist tomorrow, and once he gives us the evidence we need to prove that Evelyn paid for the suite and took Sandra into the room, we will get her arrested," Mr Stone suggested.

    "Yes, let''s do that," his wife said with a nod while Sandra shifted ufortably in her seat, worried that Evelyn might present the video she had.

    Hopefully, no one would listen to whatever she had to say if the receptionist testified against Evelyn, Sandra thought.

    Or maybe she could find a way to get her hands on Evelyn''s phone and delete the video from the club? Perhaps she could convince Rayna to help her do that.

    "It''s funny that somehow we''ve made dinner all about Evelyn. Can we talk about something else now?" Derek asked, but everyone was too lost in their thoughts now to talk about anything else. Dinner continued awkwardly, with Mrs. Stone growing more silent by the minute as she wondered what her husband and son were up to.

    After dinner, they all rose to leave, and Sandra smiled at Derek,

    "Can

    you

    drop me off on your way? I didn''t bring my car," she said, tucking her hair behind her ear.

    "I''m sorry, darling, Derek won''t be able to do that. I need to speak with him," Mrs Stone said, and Sandra''s smile fell. She had deliberately left her car so she could have Derek take her home or hotel.

    to his hote

    Mr Stone turned to Michael, "Mike, why don''t you take her home," he suggested, and Michael gave him a nod.

    Once Michael and Sandra left, Mrs. Stone turned to Derek and her husband, who were sitting in the living room with her.

    After a long pause, she let out a deep sigh. "What is going on?" She asked, looking from one to the other.

    "What do you mean?" Her husband asked innocently.

    "Why are you both lying to me?" she asked, her voice firm. "I know it''s not a coincidence that the little girl you brought home yesterday is called Samantha, and Evelyn''s daughter is Samantha, too. I want to know what is going on. And I want to know why you put up that show earlier about about getting Evelyn arrested." Derek sighed, exchanging a nce with his father. "The only people putting up a show are Michael and Sandra. But you''re too blind to see it, Derek said, his tone bitter.

    His mother''s eyes narrowed. "What do you mean by that?"

    "If you really want to know the truth, investigate the hotel incident, and you will find out what you need to know," Derek said simply.

    She turned to her husband, her face filled with confusion. "What is he talking about?"

    Mr. Stone leaned back in his chair, his expression serious. "You''ve always been a smart woman, buttely, you''ve been disappointing me, honey. You need to start listening to Derek. Michael isn''t who he says he is."

    "I still don''t understand what you''re both saying. Derek, is that little girl your daughter? Did you impregnate your cousin''s ex-fianc¨¦e?" She asked, and Derek nodded.

    "Yes, Mom. Samantha is my daughter, and my cousin''s ex-fianc¨¦e is going to be my wife. You can either give us your blessing and be a part of our lives or not, but my mind is made up," Derek said firmly.

    "Derek..."

    "You think you know so much about Michael? For your information, Michael has been having an affair with Sandra all these years. That was the reason Evelyn called off the wedding!

    Michael wants me to marry Sandra so they can rip us off! That was the reason he was to marry Evelyn, too. Because of her inheritance. Do you know Michael was the one who let out the news of my private discussion with Evelyn?" Derek asked his mother, who sat in stunned silence as heid out all the usations.

    While his mother was still processing all he was saying, Derek dropped a phone containing all the evidence he had gathered thus far on Michael and all that Evelyn had gathered on Sandra. It included the CCTV footage from his office showing Michael taking out the bug, the recordings of phone conversations and texts, and the video of Sandra trying to drug Evelyn.

    "Everything I''ve gathered until now is in there. You can take a look at it if you care about knowing the truth. But if you''d rather keep ming Evelyn for crimes she didn''tmit just so your nephew can keep looking good in your sight, then don''t bother. I have no idea why you hate her so much when you haven''t even heard her side of the story. And just so you know, Evelyn has reconciled with her parents, and they know all about Sandra''s schemes now. Think carefully about whose side you are on. Mine or Michael''s. You can either choose to join us and expose them together or not, but you should keep in mind that Evelyn WILL be my wife with or without your permission." With that, Derek walked away, leaving his mother staring at the table in disbelief. Mrs Stone turned to her husband, "Do you believe him?" She asked, and he nodded as he ced a hand on her shoulder.

    "Derek is right. You will find all the evidence in there. I also looked into his activities in thepany after Derek came to me. Michael has been stealing from thepany. You need to make up your mind about Evelyn and Samantha because they are going to be part of this family."

    Mrs. Stone sat in stunned silence, the weight of the truth pressing down on her. She knew her husband and trusted him without a doubt. If he said Michael was guilty, then she believed him.

    It seemed like everything she thought she knew about Michael was a lie, and now, she had to face the reality of who he really was.

    With a deep sigh, she rose from her seat and picked up the phone which Derek had left on the table. Without another word to her husband, she walked away, determined to find out the truth for herself.

 Chapter 139

    Neither Sandra nor Michael said a word as he drove her home. The quiet drone of the car was the only sound as Sandra stared out the window, lost in her thoughts. She was still battling with her disappointment over having Michael take her home instead of Derek. She had hoped to spend some time with him. Michael, on the other hand, was still reeling from the events of dinner. Damn Derek and his wide mouth.

    If only

    y Derek had kept it shut. No. It wasn''t Derek. It was Sandra. If only she had not pulled that stupid stunt and had simply shown up at the hotel as he had asked her without involving Evelyn, then none of these would have happened, Michael thought as his grip tightened on the steering wheel and he pulled the car over by the roadside abruptly. Sandra turned to ask him why he was stopping, but without warning, Michael reached over and wrapped his hands around her throat.

    Sandra gasped, eyes wide with terror. "Michael! What the hell are you doing?" she choked out, her hands instinctively wing at his, trying to pry them off.

    His voice was

    low and angry, "What did you n to do, Sandra? Why did you try to drug Evelyn? You think I wouldn''t find out?"

    Sandra''s mind raced as she struggled to catch her breath, fear shooting through her veins. "What...what are you talking about? I didn''t-" she sputtered, trying to feign innocence.

    "Don''t y dumb with me!" Michael snarled his face inches from hers, his grip tightening for a moment before he released her abruptly.

    Sandra coughed, gasping for air as she backed cked against t the door, shaking as she raised both hands to her neck.

    "You tried to set me up with Evelyn, didn''t you? You thought you could drug her, drug me, and make me look like a fool. Do you like Derek that much that you''d do something this reckless?" Michael''s words cut like shards of ss. Sandra''s voice trembled, "Michael, I don''t know what you''re talking about... you''re scaring me." She tried to sound convincing, but her heart pounded in her chest.

    a hand t

    t falling for for her act.

    She could see the fury burning in his eyes- he wasn''t through his hair in frustration. "Don''t mess with me, Sandra. You set this whole thing up, and I''m done with you. You''re not marrying Derek. Our deal is off."

    Michael scoffed, leaning back in his seat, running a

    Sandra''s fear quickly turned into anger. She straightened up, her voice now sharp. "You don''t get to decide that anymore, Michael. I''m marrying Derek whether you like it or not." Michael''s eyes shed with rage. "You think you''re walking into that that family without my blessing? I paved the way for you, Sandra. I brought you into this. If I decide you''re out, you''re out. I''ll block every step you take." Sandra''s lips curled into a bitter smile. "You wouldn''t Because if you try to block I''ll expose you. I know more about your schemes than you think. So you stay out of my path, Michael. It''s in your best interest." Michael clenched his jaw, shaking his head. "I can''t believe I ever trusted a bitch like you."" a bastard too. Don''t get mad just because I''m ying the same game as you. You nted that camera so you could ckmail me with those photos to keep you in check," he snapped at her.

    Sandra shot back, her voiceced with contempt. "And

    "I didn''t want to ckmail you! I only wanted leverage. So also wanted leverage. We''re the same, Michael. We think alike, so stop acting surprised and betrayed."

    Sandraughed scornfully, "L "Leverage, ckmail, same They "We

    stared at each t each other, the tension thick between them. Finally, Sandra spoke again, her tone softening. were both

    both wrong. We shouldn''t have thought of doing what we nned to do. I''m sorry I did that to you. We have bothe a long way, and I don''t want us to fight each other. We both want the same thing, Michael. I want to be Derek''s wife. And honestly, you stand to gain more than lose if I marry him. I''ll make sure you''re always taken care of. I''ll push things in your favor. We can still work together." I Michael remained silent for a moment, weighing her words. Then, reluctantly, he sighed. "Fine. You can keep going. But only on one condition-you stay my lover. No more games, no more stunts like this."

    Sandra raised an eyebrow, her voice skeptical. "And how do I know I can trust you not to take more photos? How do I know you won''t try to ruin me?"

    Michael nced at her, his expression unreadable. "As long as you don''t give me reasons to doubt you, I won''t do it again. Just don''t try anything stupid like you did the other night."

    Sandra leaned back in her seat, exhaling, "Fine."

    They both sat in silence for a moment before Sandra spoke again. "But what about Evelyn? If she gets arrested, she might have proof that I drugged her.

    Everything could fall apart."

    Michael cursed under his breath, gripping the wheel tighter. "It''s Derek''s fault. He''s the one pushing for this.

    I thought he''d be defending her as usual, not throwing her under the bus. I don''t understand why he wants her arrested so badly."

    Sandra''s lips twisted into a smirk. "Shouldn''t you be d, though? It clearly shows that Derek is done with her. He doesn''t want her anymore."

    Michael paused, his mind working through the situation. "Yeah, but did you notice? He didn''t seem shocked about Evelyn having a kid. He didn''t even blink. Something''s off."

    Sandra nodded slowly, realizing the same. "Maybe that''s why he''s so determined to punish her. Maybe he realized that she wasn''t as good as he thought, and now he''s angry. Did you really see the kid''s father there, or were you just fibbing?" Michael scowled. "I saw him. His name is Liam. I still can''t believe she cheated on me."

    Sandra''s smile widened. "We "Well, it looks like Evelyn wasn''t as innocent as we thought. It''s a good thing she''s not in our way anymore. I''ll talk to Rayna. I need her help deleting that video."

    Michael''s head snapped toward her, eyes wide. "What video?"

    Sandra looked away, shame washing over her when she realized he didn''t know about that. "Someone caught me on camera putting something in Evelyn''s drink."

    Michael''s eyes red with anger. "Are you f for real?

    Have you lost your senses? Do you realize what you''ve done?"

    Sandra swallowed, her voice trembling. "I didn''t know what I was thinking. I''m sorry. I will take care of it, I promise."

    Michael sighedContentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    d heavily, running his hands over his face. "When is Evelyn supposed to resume at the magazine?"

    "Tomorrow," San Sandra replied, wondering why he was asking.

    "Fine," Michael said, his voice cold and calcting.

    "You can arrange for someone to steal her phone tomorrow. And I will do what I can. I will talk to my aunt and convince her to drop the hotel investigation and leave Evelyn alone. We can''t afford any more loose ends." "That sounds like a good idea. Let''s do that. I don''t want any more business with Evelyn," Sandra said since she had begun to worry that Evelyn might ruin her ns if she continued to provoke her.

    "To prove that we are back to being partners, why don''t you be a good girl and give me some sugar?" Michael asked, taking her hand and cing it on his thigh.

    Sandra rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged on her lips as she unzipped his fly, and she gave him a blow job.

    With that settled, Michael restarted the engine and took her home.

 Chapter 140

    Derek''s mother sat in her bedroom, staring at the phone in her hand. Her heart pounded in her chest as she scrolled through the countless files and messages Derek had left her. Everything was there- recordings, texts, videos- each one unraveling the lies she had believed for so long. It felt like a nightmare, one she couldn''t wake up from.

    She had trusted Michael and loved him like her own son, but now she felt like a fool.

    Unable to

    stay still, she rose and paced the length of her room, her fury growing with every step.

    How had she been so blind? How had she let Michael manipte her for so many years? How had she been so gullible to not see through Sandra? Every conversation, every lie they had spun now felt like daggers piercing through her. As she walked, her thoughts raced. How could she have been so cruel to Evelyn? How could she have pushed away her own son, siding with Michael at every turn, while Evelyn- the mother of her granddaughter suffered the consequences? Just then, the door to the bedroom creaked open, and her husband walked in, concern etched on his face. "I guess you''ve seen everything," he said, his voice steady, but his but his eyes scanned her tense figure.

    She

    allu

    pacing, her eyes wild with disbelief. "I can''t believe it," she said, her voice trembling. "I can''t believe Michael has been ying me for years! How could I have been so blind? How could I have let this go on right under my nose?" Her husband sighed and walked toward her, his hands outstretched as if to calm her down. "Rx, dear. He fooled us all. Don''t let this get the better of you. Well figure it out," he said softly. "Rx?" she almost screamed, stepping back from him, her voice shaking with anger. "How can I rx when I''ve been an idiot? I''ve been fighting with Derek my own because of Michael! I believed everything Michael and Sandra told me. And now look where we are. I almost forced Derek into marrying that... that witch!" Her husband nodded patiently. "I get it. I know you feel betrayed. You believed Michael because he''s your nephew. You''ve loved him like your own child."

    son-

    Mrs. Stone shook her head violently. "No! No, that''s not an excuse! I should have seen through him. I should have known!" She threw her hands up, pacing again. "I''m not going to let this slide. I''m going to deal with him! I''m going to deal with those two shameless animals! I''m going to confront him him tonight!" Her husband quickly moved to her side, gently taking her arm. "No. You can''t do that."

    She whipped her head around to him, her brows furrowed. "Why not? What are we waiting for?"

    "I don''t think it''s time yet," he said quietly. "Let''s think this through. If you confront him now, you''ll only tip him off. We need to be smart about this. We don''t know how far they are willing to go." Taon! "So, what? We should let them continue? For how long? I am not interested in ying games. I want to handle this right now!"

    Before he could respond, her phone rang. The shrill sound cut through the tension in the room. She looked down at the screen, and her face twisted with anger when she saw it was Michael. "Answer it calmly," her husband urged. "We need to be careful."

    She hesitated, then took a deep, calming breath as she epted the call and ced it on loudspeaker for her husband''s benefit.

    "Hello, Aunt," Michael''s smooth voice came through the line. "I just wanted to thank you again for the lovely dinner. And I wanted to let you know I''ve dropped Sandra off, and I just got home." Mrs. Stone clenched her jaw. "That''s good," "she forced out, trying to keep her tone even.

    Michael continued, his voice sounding casual, almost t too casual. "Also, I hope you will forget everything we discussed at dinner. I really don''t want to get Evelyn arrested, Aunt. I know she hurt me, but she''s not worth it." Mrs.

    "Why not? not?"

    Stone asked, her voice barely hiding the edge in her tone.

    There was a brief pause on the line, and then Michael spoke again, this time with a tone of false humility.

    "I''m ashamed to admit it, but I still have feelings for her. I just want to move on now that I understand why she did what she did. Let''s just leave it in the past. I want her out of our lives for good. That way, I can really move on." Mrs. Stone shot a nce at her husband, who nodded subtly, encouraging her to agree.

    "Fine," she said through gritted teeth. "If that''s what you want, I''ll let it go. But I''m only doing this for your sake, you know that."

    Michael let out a breath, seemingly relieved. "Thank you, Aunt. I appreciate it."

    And with that, the call ended. The room fell into a heavy silence, and Mrs. Stone lowered the phone, her hands shaking.

    Had she not seen all the evidence Derek had left her, she would have fallen for Michael''s lies once again.

    How? How could Michael be so deceptive?

    Her husband stepped closer, watching her intently. "I know you''re upset, but you need to calm down.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Michael is family, and for that reason, we can''t act rashly."

    As her husband spoke, her thoughts were elsewhere.

    She turned to him, "Why doesn''t he want me to investigate what happened?"

    "That''s because he''s worried that the truth might be revealed if you look too deep. Do you see now?" he asked softly.

    She stared at the phone in her hand, her mind racing.

    "First thing in the morning, I''m going to visit the hotel and look into this," she said firmly.

    Her husband frowned. "Are you sure? You don''t need to get involved in this mess. Derek and I will handle it."

    But she shook her head. "No. I''ve let Michael make a fool of me for long enough. I need to see the truth for myself,'' she said in a determined voice.

    The next morning, having gotten all the necessary information from the evidence on the phone, Mrs.

    Stone found herself standing in front of the hotel where the incident had taken ce.

    The receptionist looked up as she approached. "Good morning, ma''am. How can I help you?"

    "I need to speak with the person who was working herest Thursday night," she said, her voice cool but firm.

    The receptionist nodded, motioning for her to wait. A momentter, a young man emerged from the back, his expression cautious.

    "Yes, ma''am? You wanted to speak to me?"

    Mrs. Stone studied him for a moment before speaking. "I''d like to confirm a certain incident that took ce on your watch," she said, and after narrating what Derek had said about ady taking an unconscious woman to the suite, the receptionist nodded. "Yes, I remember." "Can you tell me the name of the person who booked that particr suite? Was it a male or female?" She asked, and the man hesitated.

    "Actually, a man booked the suite," he said, and she nodded.

    "What about thedy who brought in the unconsciousdy?" She asked, and he shook his head.

    "I don''t know her. But I do know that the unconsciousdy she brought it in was with the man. She arrived before him and took the key," he exined.

    "So, it wasn''t Evelyn who booked the suite," she said, and he shook his head.

    "No, ma''am. It was the man who booked the suite. But they both paid me some money and asked me to put the name of thedy who brought in his unconscious friend."

    Mrs. Stone''s breath caught in her throat. "Are you sure?"

    "Positive," he replied. "You can check the CCTV if you want. I made sure the CCTV caught it."

    Her heart pounded in her chest as she processed the information. "Why did you do that? Did Evelyn ask you to do this?"

    "No, ma''am. The person I spoke with was Mr Derek Stone. He was here, and he helped her carry the unconsciousdy inside. He said someone mighte to ask questions, and I should tell you he was here and show you all the evidence if need be," the receptionist admitted.

    Mrs. Stone''s stomach turned at the thought, and she quickly thanked the receptionist before leaving the hotel.

    As she stepped out into the morning light, her phone buzzed in her hand. It was theb.

    "Hello?"

    she answered, her voice shaky.

    "Mrs. Stone, the results are out," the voice on the other end said.

    "And? What does it say?" She asked, even though she knew the answer already.

    It''s a match."

    Even though she knew the answer before it was said, it didn''t stop her from freezing in ce as the weight of the truth crashed down on her.

    This confirmed everything. Her husband had told her how Evelyn and Derek had met, and how she had been crying that day because she had seen Michael in bed with Sandra.

    In the same way that the test result confirmed Derek''s story, everything else she had seen on the phone and heard from the receptionist confirmed that Michael was a pathological liar. Nephew or not, she would deal with him. She had to.

    But first, she needed to meet with Evelyn.

 Chapter 141

    Evelyn had a smirk on her face as she pulled into the parking lot of The People''s Times building.

    Six years had passed since shest stepped foot in the family''s magazinepany, and now, she was ready to take her ce here once again.

    The magnificent ss-covered building loomed over her, a symbol of how much had changed in thest six years. She wasn''t the same person who had left Ludus all those years ago, and she doubted thepany was the same either. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out of the car, straightened her zer, and walked toward the entrance. As she pushed open the doors, the familiar scent of fresh paper and ink hit her, bringing back memories of all the time she had spent here. But theyout had changed. The once warm, cozy reception area had been transformed into a modern design with metallic finishes and ss partitions. The walls were adorned with magazine covers- The People''s Times had clearly kept up with the times.

    Evelyn approached the front desk, where a young receptionist looked up and smiled. "Good morning. How may I help you?"

    "I''m Evelyn Quinn," she said, offering a small smile.

    "I''m resuming here today."

    The receptionist''s eyes widened, clearly recognizing the name. "Oh! Wee back, Miss Quinn. Let me notify HR."

    As she waited, Evelyn scanned the room, noticing a few familiar faces among the staff bustling around. Some of the people who had been there for years smiled warmly at her, clearly recognizing her. A tall, graying man- Mr. Jenkins waved from across the lobby. He had been in charge of the finance department for as long as she could remember.

    "Good to see you, Evelyn!" he called out. "Wee back!"

    Evelyn smiled and waved back. "Good to see you too, Mr. Jenkins."

    "HR will be with you shortly," the receptionist said, interrupting her thoughts. A momentter, a woman from HR appeared, clipboard in hand.

    "Miss Quinn, follow me, please."

    Evelyn nodded and followed her through the sswalled corridors, trying to shake off the unease settling in her stomach. She wasn''t nervous about the work itself-she could handle that. It was Sandra she was worried about.

    Sandra had made it clear she didn''t want her back, and although Evelyn was prepared for whatever confrontationy ahead, she still couldn''t help but feel wary.

    After a brief tour of the office spaces, HR led her to an office near the corner of the building. "This is where you will be working," the HR rep said, smiling as she led Evelyn into the office. Evelyn smiled to herself as she followed thedy into

    Sandra''s office, eager to see the look that would be on Sandra''s face when she realized that they were going to be working together, and as such, sabotaging her work would cost her as well

    Sandra was sitting behind arge desk. Her expression froze the moment she saw Evelyn, and her eyes widened in disbelief.

    "Sandra here will be your direct supervisor, as I''m sure you both know already. Ordinarily, I will do the introduction, but since you''re sisters, I guess there is no need for that."

    "You''ve got to be kidding me," Sandra muttered under her breath before remembering that they hadpany and she had decided to stop fighting with Evelyn.

    Before she could fake a smile, Evelyn forced a bright smile of her own, stepping forward as though nothing was wrong. "Hey, sis, I''m really excited to be working with you. I look forward to learning from your wealth of experience," Evelyn said, and Sandra blinked, clearly taken aback by Evelyn''s overly cheerful tone.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "Why are you working here as an associate editor when you should be a senior editor?" Sandra asked in disbelief.

    "Because I want to work with you, Sandy," Evelyn said, her voice sickeningly sweet.

    Sandra''s shock was barely hidden as she stood up. "Dad allowed this?"

    "Of course. I might be a senior editor at Empowered, but I''m new here. I should learn from you." Evelyn kept her expression innocent, though inside, she was savoring the moment. "I''m sure we will work well together," Evelyn added, keeping her voice light.

    The tension in the room was thick as they exchanged fake smiles. Evelyn knew Sandra was probably fuming inside, but Sandra couldn''t do anything to her.

    "Sandra, I guess you can handle the rest. Please let her know what is expected from her," the HRdy said before excusing them.

    As thedy walked away, Sandra subtly picked up her phone and turned on the recorder, wanting to use Evelyn''s tactic against her this time.

    The moment the door clicked shut after the HRdy, Sandra''s smile dropped. "What the hell are you doing here in my office?" she hissed, crossing her arms.

    Evelyn didn''t flinch. Instead, she leaned casually against the desk. "Oh, Sandra, don''t pretend you''re not thrilled to see me. You look so happy." Her voice dripped with sarcasm.

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed. "Cut the act, Evelyn. You know we can''t work together. I do not want that and I''m sure you don''t want it either."

    "And yet, here I am," Evelyn said, her tone turning icy.

    "Working right under you. Isn''t it perfect?"

    Sandra red, her nostrils ring. "You''re a fool if you think I''ll make this easy for you."

    Evelyn''s smile turned sharp. "And why do you think I''m going to make it easy for you either? I know you''re ufortable, Sandra. But guess what? I''m only getting started. If I were you, I''d quit now and save myself the trouble. You see, a snake like you doesn''t belong in this family or thispany. You''ve slithered your way through everything for too long."

    Sandra''s mouth twitched, and she reached for her phone. "You realize I''m recording this, right?" She asked with a smirk.

    Evelyn let out a low chuckle. "Oh, sweetheart, I''m recording too. So go ahead."

    Sandra''s face paled slightly as she realized Evelyn had anticipated her move. "What game are you ying, Evelyn? Why are you doing all this?"

    "You know exactly what game I''m ying, and you know why I''m doing this too," Evelyn said, her voice soft but firm.

    Sandra snorted, "No matter how

    hard I try, I can''t understand why you go about acting all innocent and self righteous when you''re nothing but a dirty slut. You cheated on Michael and had a child yet you have the guys to keep acting like the victim. Well, guess what? Your secret is

    out

    now. Derek and his family know exactly the kind of slut you are. A word of advice to you, do not think of seducing Derek again. I don''t want you embarrassing yourself and our family any more than you''ve done already. Derek''s family will never let him marry a single mother, and especially not you," she said, and Evelyn smirked.

    "It''s good to see you still care so much about me, but you can keep your concern to yourself. It''s not wee. And just so you know, I won''t only be seducing Derek, I will also get married to him. Want to make a bet and see if I don''t?" She asked, and a sense of unease settled over Sandra.

    Evelyn wasn''t the same girl she remembered. And that made her dangerous. "I do not want any more

    troubles, Evelyn. Let''s leave the past behind."

    "Says the one who tried to drug me after using simr lines," Evelyn said with a roll of her eyes. "Guess what? You might not want trouble anymore, but I want trouble. I warned you before, remember?

    Now, here is the first rule of our

    arrangement: I''m not yourckey. I''m preparing for my interview with Derek, so you will have to handle your work yourself. I''ve heard about how you order everyone around, but you do nothing here. That''s going to change now that I''m here. You have to start earning your sry. This isn''t a charity organization for lowlife bitches like you."

    Sandra opened her mouth to retort, but nothing came out. She stood there, seething, as Evelyn calmly walked toward the door. "I''m here to stay, Sandy." With that, Evelyn walked out, her heart pounding but her faceposed. She could feel Sandra''s gaze burning into her back, but she didn''t look back.

    As soon as she was out of the office, Sandra grabbed her phone and furiously dialed Michael''s number.

    "She''s here," Sandra hissed when he picked up.

    "Evelyn just resumed. And you won''t believe the nerve of her. She thinks she can walk in here and-" "Calm down," Michael interrupted. "We knew this wasing. Don''t let her get to you." "Calm down?" Sandra spat. "She''s going to ruin everything! She''s already threatening me."

    "You need to focus," Michael said, his voice steady. "Remember, we''re not worrying about Evelyn anymore? I told you, you have to choose one It''s either you want Derek or you want your family magazine. You have to focus on what is more important and profitable. What you need to do is find a way to get her phone and get rid of that video from the club- if she still has it, you''re done for."

    Sandra clenched her jaw. "I am done for?"

    "Of course. I wasn''t party to that. That is all on you.

    Have you gotten someone to steal her phone?"

    Michael asked, and Sandra took in a deep breath.

    "It''s easier now that she''s working with me. I''ll find a way to get it," Sandra said as she stared at the door Evelyn had just walked through, her mind racing.

    Michael said calmly. "Good. Figure it out. And get it done quickly."

 Chapter 142

    Evelyn sat at her desk, engrossed in her work, her fingers tapping lightly on her keyboard as she worked on the questions she waspiling for her interview with Derek. The phone on her desk buzzed softly, and she nced down at the screen. A smile spread across her face when she saw Derek''s name shing.

    Without hesitation, she picked up the phone. "Hey, D!" she greeted warmly, leaning back in her chair, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

    "Hey, baby! How''s your day going?" Derek''s familiar voice came through the line, and she could hear the hint of a smile in his tone.

    "Going smoothly so far" Evelyn replied, ncing briefly at the clock on herputer screen. "What about you?"

    Derek chuckled softly. "Busy, as usual, but everything''s on track. I wanted to check in and see if the movers have arrived at your ce yet. Have you heard from Maya?" Evelyn''s eyes brightened at the mention of the movers. "Not yet."

    They had agreed to make the move that day while she was at work, keeping an eye on Sandra, and they were certain Michael was also in his office.

    Maya was to coordinate the movers and take them to the new house, and after the close of school, she''d go get Samantha and take her to their new home. Evelyn would also go there after the close of work. "I assume they''ll get there soon. Thest time I spoke with them, they were on their way," Derek confirmed. "Also, I need to

    to warn you - Sandra is nning to steal your phone to get rid of that video we have. You might want to be careful."

    Evelyn let out a short, amusedugh. "Oh, she can try, but I''m not going to make it easy for her."

    "I trust you not to. So, when are we inviting Rayna and Ethan over?" Derek asked, and Evelyn grinned.

    "Wednesday would be good. What do you think? Or should we make it Friday?" Evelyn asked, thinking about how much time it would take to unpack.

    "It depends on you. But don''t forget that your parents will want toe over by the weekend, and my Dad will too," he said, and she smiled.

    "Let''s have them over by Wednesday then," Evelyn said, and before Derek could respond, his office door opened and his mother walked in.

    "Sorry, babe, I have to call you back. My mom just walked in," he said in a quiet voice.

    Talk

    "Oh, okay," she said softly, a little surprised but knowing that they were probably about to have a serious conversation since he had told her how dinner had gone the previous night. "Talk to youter." soon." Derek hung up and ced his phone down before turning to greet his mother.

    She stood inside the office, her posture stiff, her face pale and uncertain. For a long moment, they stared at each other in silence.

    "Mom," Derek greeted quietly, nodding at her, "I heard from Dad. Did you confirm things at the hotel?"

    She stepped closer to the desk, her eyes avoiding his for a moment before she nodded. "I did," she whispered. "I''ve seen everything, Derek. I don''t know how to face you."

    Derek sighed, standing up from his desk. "It''s not your fault. Michael and Sandra had everyone fooled." He motioned to a chair. "Please, sit. Do you want some coffee? Anything to drink?"

    His mother shook her head, sitting down slowly. "No, thank you. I''m not here for that." She swallowed hard, her eyes finally meeting his. "I came to apologize, Derek. I''ve been so blind... I didn''t listen to you and tried to force my decisions on you. I see now how wrong I

    was.''

    Derek''s expression softened as he walked around his desk and sat across from her. "I love you, Mom. The only thing that matters to me is that you know the truth now. That''s all that matters."

    She sighed heavily, her hands sped tightly in herp. "I was so cruel to Evelyn... I judged her based on lies. I need to meet with her and apologize."

    Derek raised an eyebrow, watching her closely. "Do you mean it? Or are you just saying that?"

    "I mean it," she insisted, her voice trembling with sincerity. "I''m truly sorry for everything. I''ve not been able to stop thinking about the incident in your suite. I said those harsh words to her and I made her lose her job. I feel so ashamed now." "Yes, I agree that you should be embarrassed. Your behavior embarrassed me, too. But don''t worry.

    Evelyn is forgiving and sweet. I''m sure she won''t hold it against you."

    "I have no doubt. Anyone that raised Samantha is wonderful," she said softly.

    "I''m surprised you''re not asking for a DNA test," he said, and she shook her head.

    "I suspected from the moment I saw her that she was your daughter. The resemnce was too strong to ignore. I just didn''t want to believe it at the time. I even... I even had a DNA test done..." she trailed off when Derek''s eyes widened in surprise. "You... did what? When? How?"

    His mother nodded, shame coloring her features as she exined it to him. "I just wanted to know for sure, and now I want to make things right."

    Derek leaned back in his chair, processing her words.

    "Like I told you already, I n to marry Evelyn, Mom.

    I hope you''re okay with that."

    She gave him a slight, tentative nod. "I don''t mind. I never had anything against Evelyn, not personally. I just... I listened to Michael too much. This has taught me always to hear both sides of the story, no matter who tells it first." Derek studied her for a moment, then sighed. "I will arrange for you to meet Evelyn. Maybe you and Dad cane over to the house. We can all sit down and talk things through." But she quickly shook her head. "No, I want to meet her privately. I need to apologize and make amends before Ie into her home. It wouldn''t feel right." Derek nodded thoughtfully.

    "Alright,

    if that''s what you prefer. Do you want me to bring her to you?"

    "No," mother his

    firmly. said t

    I need is her phone number. I''ll reach out to her myself and arrange a meeting," she said, and Derek reluctantly pulled out his phone and gave her Evelyn''s number. His mother took it with a grateful nod, and as they put their phones away, she looked at him again, her expression shifting to one of annoyance.

    "I was going to confront Michael, but your father asked me not to. What are we going to do about those two animals?" She asked, and Derek smirked.

    "I have a n," he said, his voice steady with resolve.

    "And now that you''re on our side, I need your help executing it." "Whatever

    need, Derek. I''ll do anything to fix the mess I''ve caused," she said, her eyes meeting his with a newfound determination. Derek gave her a small, approving nod. "First, you have to keep acting like you don''t know a thing. I''d like us to reveal everything at your uing birthday party. I want you to make sure they n the party themselves. I will make Michael believe I n to propose to §ß§Ö§Ô§Ñ Sandra on on that night." His mother frowned, "I like the idea, but don''t forget that Michael is family and I have to think about my sister and our rtives before doing something like that in public. Besides, it would ruin my party," she reminded him.

    "That doesn''t have to be the real party. We could do that at home with only family members present and after that we can move to the real party venue. How about that?" He asked, and she considered it for a moment before nodding. "That sounds good. Will Sandra''s parents be present too?" She asked, and Derek nodde

    "Yes. They have to be there. I n to propose to Evelyn on that night after I''ve cleared up everything," he said, and she nodded

    "Alright. If that''s what you want, you have my support," she assured him, making up her mind not to worry about what anyone was going to say about Derek marrying Michael''s ex fianc¨¦e. Derek smiled, happy that he finally had his mother on his side. With both their parents'' blessing, he could proceed with his ns to marry Evelyn now.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

 Chapter 143

    The day dragged on, with Sandra doing her best to get under Evelyn''s skin. She hovered around, offering unsolicited advice, acting extra friendly with some of the staff, and throwing Evelyn fake smiles every time their paths crossed. But beneath Sandra''s thinly veiled hostility, Evelyn could sense something more: Sandra was looking for an opportunity to steal her phone.

    Evelyn kept her phone close all morning, knowing that if she left her phone unattended, Sandra might take the chance to snoop.

    She made sure it was either in her pocket or locked securely in her drawer. She even caught Sandra casting nces at her desk when she thought Evelyn wasn''t looking. Every time she excused herself from her desk, Evelyn could feel Sandra watching, waiting for her to slip up. But Evelyn wasn''t about to give her the satisfaction.

    By mid-afternoon, Evelyn needed to use the restroom. Tucking her phone into her pocket, she made her way to the restroom, trying to shake off the growing tension. She couldn''t let Sandra control her every move.

    Once inside the restroom, Evelyn slipped into a stall, grateful for a moment of peace. She was about to rx when she overheard voices- some of the staff

    chatting as they fixed their makeup at the sink.

    "Did you hear about Evelyn?" one of them whispered.

    "Oh yeah," another replied. "I heard she got fired from Empowered for being ipetent. Imagine, she came back here like nothing happened. Must be good to have the familypany to fall back on." Evelyn rolled her eyes as she listened in silence. She did not doubt that Sandra had sponsored some of these rumors.

    The first woman chuckled softly. "That''s not even the best part. I heard she leaked those stories about Derek Stone all over the inte because she was jealous of her sister''s rtionship with him." "And," the second woman added in a hushed tone, "apparently, she has been away for a long time because she ran away on the morning of her wedding. Can you believe it?"

    She was usually not one to enjoy gossip, but there was oddly something satisfying about eavesdropping on a conversation about yourself, especially when the gossipers were clueless gossipmongers. The first woman gasped. "No way. What a mess."

    The gossipers continued to snicker, clearly enjoying themselves, oblivious to the fact that Evelyn could hear every word. But Evelyn wasn''t going to hide. She flushed the toilet, and as she stepped out of the stall, the women froze, their faces draining of color.

    Evelyn walked to the sink, washed her hands, and smiled at them through the mirror. "You know," she said calmly, "I don''t care about the rumors you''re peddling, and I certainly don''t care where you got them from. What I care about is that you are being paid to stand in the restroom gossiping during work hours."

    The two women stammered apologies, avoiding her gaze as they hurriedly grabbed their things and fled from the restroom. Evelyn shook her head, drying her hands before walking back to her office.

    Just as she was settling back at her desk, her phone buzzed with a text message. It was from Derek: [I gave my mom your number. She''ll probably call you soon.

    I''ll call you when I''m less busy.]

    Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat. [Why would you give her my number?] She started typing in response, but before she could send it, her phone lit up with an iing call from an unknown number. Her heart raced. Was it Derek''s mother?

    She hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath and answered.

    "Hello?"

    "Evelyn?" came a soft, tentative voice from the other end. "It''s Derek''s mother. I-I''m sure Derek told you everything already, but I just wanted to... well, I was hoping you''d give me a chance to meet with you. I know I''ve made mistakes, and I don''t expect you to forgive me easily, but I would really like to apologize.

    That''s all I want."

    Evelyn''s grip on the phone rxed. She could hear the nervousness in Mrs. Stone''s voice, and despite everything that had happened, Evelyn felt a small sense of empathy for the woman.

    "Okay," Evelyn said after a pause. "We can meet during my lunch hour."

    Relief flooded Mrs. Stone''s voice. "Thank you, Evelyn. You can pick the ce."

    "How about Caf¨¦ Limca? It''s quiet and not far from my office," Evelyn suggested.

    "Sounds fine," Mrs Stone replied. "I''ll see you then."

    When lunch hour arrived, Evelyn left the office and headed to Caf¨¦ Limca. Her mind swirled with thoughts of the meeting with Derek''s Mom.

    Despite the fact that the woman had said she wanted to see her to apologize, Evelyn couldn''t help but feel anxious as she remembered thest time they met in Derek''s suite and how it had resulted in the loss of her job.

    Evelyn reminded herself that she

    was Derek''s mother, and Derek wouldn''t have given her number to his mother if he didn''t trust that she wouldn''t cause any trouble. So she pushed her worries aside,

    ¦«¦¯¦´

    determined to clear the air and make

    a good impression on her,

    When she arrived at the caf¨¦, Evelyn spotted Mrs. Stone sitting at a table near the window. She looked slightly anxious butposed, with a ss of iced coffee in front of her. Evelyn approached with a polite smile. "Hello, ma''am," she greeted warmly, wanting her to rx.

    Mrs. Stone looked up and returned the smile, though it was tinged with nervousness. "Evelyn, thank you for meeting me. Please sit down."

    Evelyn took a seat across from her, noticing how carefully Mrs. Stone had dressed for the asion. Neither of them said a word until they had ordered their snacks, and Evelyn ordered her drink.

    "I''m really ashamed of the way I acted thest time we met," Mrs. Stone began after they had been served, her voice low. "I misjudged you. I should have never spoken to you the way I did or did all of that."

    Evelyn nodded, her expression neutral. "As much as it hurt me, I understand why you did that. I''ve tried to put myself in your shoes. You reacted that way because you didn''t know what was going on."

    Mrs. Stone leaned forward slightly. "I

    don''t think everyone would have reacted the same way I did. It is true that I didn''t know the details of all that transpired between you and Michael, and I reacted based on the lies he told me, but I shouldn''t have treated you that way, regardless. I''m so sorry, Evelyn. I don''t want to

    make excuses. I want to start over if you''ll let me."

    Evelyn considered her words carefully before responding. "I appreciate your apology, ma''am. And to be honest, I don''t hold it against you. If you had known the full story and still taken Michael''s side, that would be different. But you didn''t." Mrs. Stone''s shoulders rxed, but her gaze remained earnest. "Thank you, Evelyn. But I want to do more than just apologize. I want to make it up to you. If there''s anything I can do- if you want your job back at Empowered or even a promotion, I can help." Evelyn shook her head with a small smile. "I''ve moved on from Empowered. I''m where I need to be now, with my family''spany. You really don''t need to do anything. I believe everything happened as it was meant to. I don''t have any regrets." Mrs. Stone seemed slightly surprised but nodded. "I understand."

    After a brief pause, Mrs. Stone reached into her handbag and pulled out a photo. She slid it across the table to Evelyn, who looked down at it.

    It was a picture of Derek as a child.

    Evelyn smiled softly, her heart warming at the sight. "Samantha looks just like him," she observed, surprised by the striking resemnce between them.

    Mrs. Stone''s eyes glistened as she nodded. "The moment I saw her, I knew she was Derek''s even though he tried to deceive me."

    Evelynughed softly, "He didn''t

    mean to deceive you. He wasn''t sure

    how you''d receive Sam if you knew

    who she was. And all they told you is

    the truth. They met and became friends before he realized she was his Evelyn said and watched as her eyes widened slightly.

    "Are you for real?" She asked, and Evelyn nodded.

    Although Evelyn wasn''t usually the chatty type, she wanted to put thedy at ease, so she decided to tell her everything.

    "I was surprised myself. I never knew about their friendship," Evelyn said and went on to tell her how she had been thinking Rek was a kid until she found out that Rek was actually Derek.

    Mrs Stoneughed as Evelyn narrated everything to her and then went on to tell her more about

    Samantha. By the time she was done, they were both chatting like nothing had happened between them.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    "She''s priceless, Evelyn. I can''t imagine how tough it must have been, yet you did such a wonderful job raising her," she said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Seeing all the praises I''ve been getting from everyone, I guess it was worth it. I will send you all of her pictures when next we meet," Evelyn promised.

    "I will love that. And I want to be part of her life, too, if you''ll let me."

    Evelyn met her hopeful gaze with a wide smile. "Of course, she''s your granddaughter; you have no choice but to be a part of her life," she said, and Mrs. Stone smiled.

    It was always easier to tell if something was fake after seeing the original, and now that she had seen Evelyn, she could tell that Sandra was aplete sham. Evelyn''s grace and beauty were effortless, and her warmth and kindness radiated from her like a sweet fragrance. She had no doubt that Derek had made the right choice. Michael''s loss was Derek''s win.

 Chapter 144

    Rayna sat in her office at her bakery on Wednesday, leaning back in her chair with her legs casually propped on her desk and a silly smile on her face as she chatted with ET over the phone.

    The bakery''s usual hum of activity filled the background, but Rayna was focused on the conversation.

    "So, your turn," Rayna said, twirling a pencil in her hand, "What''s one thing you''ve always wanted in a partner but have never found?"

    Ethan''s voice came through her phone, warm and rxed. "Hmm, that''s a good one. I think it would be someone who understands me, you know? Not just the surface stuff but what makes me tick. Someone who can challenge me but also be my peace." Rayna smiled, lowering the pencil. "I get that. I''m kind of the same. I need someone who''s ambitious but also knows how to rx. Bnce is important."

    "Exactly! It''s all about bnce. You get it." Ethan agreed.

    "Of course I do," Rayna said with a proud smile.

    "Now, your turn. What''s your favorite movie of all time? This is important," he said, eager to see if she would tick his box in her movie choice as she had been ticking other boxes.

    Rayna''sughter rumbled through the phone, soft and warm. "Oof, that''s a tough one. I''d have to go with The Princess Bride. I mean,e on, it''s perfect! Romance, adventure, sword fights..."

    "Hm. Not a bad choice. Mine is The Matrix. It''s a ssic," he said, and Rayna smiled, rolling her eyes.

    "Predictable. But not bad. I''ve got another important question for you," she said since they were taking turns asking questions.

    "Lay it on me, baby," he said, and she grinned.

    Somehow, in thest couple of days, he had switched to calling her baby, and each time he did, she felt warm all over.

    "If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?" Rayna''s voice carried a yful edge, but Ethan could sense her curiosity.

    "My grandfather. He passed away when I was young, but he was the wisest man I knew. I''d love to have just one more conversation with him," Ethan said, his tone softening slightly.

    There was a brief silence as Rayna smiled, touched by his answer. "That''s really sweet."

    "Thanks. What about you?"

    She giggled, tapping the pen against her lips.

    "Honestly? Probably Michael Jackson. Sorry, I don''t have a response as deep as yours," she said, and Ethan chuckled.

    "It''s all about bnce, remember? We both can''t be too serious all the time," He said, and they shared augh before Ethan''s tone turned curious. "So, what are your ns this weekend? Maybe we can meet up?"

    Rayna leaned back, closing her eyes with a contented smile. "I''d love to, but I have my high school reunion on Saturday. Maybe Sunday?"

    Ethan thought for a moment. "Sunday works, but..." he trailed off, thinking about something more spontaneous.

    "But what?" Rayna asked curiously.

    There was a pause, and then Ethan''sugh filled the room. "You know, I coulde to the reunion with you on Saturday instead."

    Rayna opened her eyes, blinking in surprise. "Wait, what?" Rayna burst outughing, shaking her head in disbelief.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "Yeah, why not?" Ethan said, still chuckling. "Let''s see how many people can guess we''ve never met in person before. I bet we could totally pull it off. We''d walk in, and everyone would just assume we''ve known each other forever." Rayna grinned, picturing the scene. "I know, right?

    They''d never guess it''s our first time meeting."

    "I know it''s a crazy idea," Ethan said, and she nodded.

    "It is indeed a crazy idea, and that is why I love it. It''d be fun! Plus, it''d give us the perfect excuse to spend the whole day together. You know what? You''re on. Let''s do it," she said with a grin that Ethan could practically hear through the phone. "You crazy matches my crazy. Why are you so perfect me, baby?" Ethan asked, the smile clear in his voice.

    She bit her lip, considering it. "Maybe because I''m your soul mate, who knows?" She asked, and Ethanughed.

    Hisughter was infectious. "Perfect response. Now, can I ask you some more... intimate questions? To see if we''repatible in other ways?"

    Rayna''s eyebrows shot up, her interest piqued. "Sure, go ahead."

    Ethan took a breath, his voice dropping a little.

    "Alright, how do you feel about, let''s say... physical touch? Are you affectionate?"

    Rayna felt a little heat rise in her cheeks but answered confidently. "I''m very affectionate when I feel a strong connection. I like to be close to my partner. I could say it''s my lovenguage."

    "Good," Ethan responded, sounding pleased. "Me too. I think touch is important in a rtionship. For me, it sort of says things words can''t."

    Rayna raised an eyebrow, "Things words can''t? Like your fist saying you''re mad?" She joked, and Ethan chuckled.

    "No, please. That''s not the kind of touch I mean," he said, and Rayna smiled.

    "I know. I was just kidding. What else?" She asked curiously.

    Ethan''s voice softened. "Okay, how

    about... do you have a high libido? I know it''s personal, but it''s something we should talk about. believesex is very important ina rtionship, especially amitted rtionship as a marriage

    Rayna chuckled, appreciating his straightforwardness. "I''d say I have a healthy libido. And I agree with you.

    think sexualpatibility is important in a rtionship, and believe in being open about what

    works and what doesn''t. I''m open to a lot of things sexually, but I''m NEVER going to be open to anal sex or BDSM. Unless, of course, I''m the one doing the whipping," she said, and Ethan let out a lowugh.

    "You don''t have to worry about any of those. I''m not into it either. This might sound wild, but I think we''re totallypatible. I can''t believe I found my soulmate through a marriage ad."

    Rayna grinned, leaning back in her chair. "I can''t believe it either. Who would''ve thought?"

    "Not me, that''s for sure. I thought I was going to settle for just anyone that passed my minimum requirement, but you''ve exceeded it all," Ethan admitted.

    Rayna leaned forward, elbows resting on her desk. "That''s good to know. Tell me, what''s your idea of a perfect rtionship?" She asked, changing the subject again.

    "Mutual respect, trust, love, openmunication. And it''s probably too soon to say this, but I believe it is time to tell you that I''ve fallen in love with you," he said, and Rayna''s breath caught.

    "Isn''t it too soon for you to tell?" She asked, even though she knew she felt the same way.

    They had beenmunicating more often for the some days now, and the best part of her day had be when they were talking or chatting.

    Whenever they weren''t talking or chatting, she found herself thinking about their conversations and rereading their chats.

    "No. I know my emotions. I know

    what I feel. I''m in love with you, Golden Sun. And that''s why I want us to meet so we can talk about getting married. I''d love us to get married as soon as possible so I can spend some time with you before going back to work," he said, and Rayna smiled.

    "What should we do for our first official date after the reunion? Do you really want to spend the night there, pretending we know each other?"

    Ethan chuckled. "We could, but how about we sneak out after the reunion and do something fun? Maybe catch ate-night movie or go clubbing?" Rayna''s face lit up. "That sounds perfect! I''m totally down for that."

    Ethan''s deepugh resonated through the phone. "I knew you''d like it. I''m really looking forward to this weekend now."

    Just as Rayna was about to respond, there was a soft knock on her office door. One of her servers peeked in, looking a little hesitant. "Sorry to interrupt, but

    there''s a client here asking about an event order."

    Rayna nodded and gave the waiter a quick smile. "I''ll be right there."

    Turning back to the phone, Rayna sighed. "Duty calls. I don''t know how long this is going to take, but I have to get ready and go visit my best friend. I''ll talk to you after I get hometer at night, okay?" "Definitely. I''ve got ns with my best friend too," Ethan replied smoothly. "Don''t forget, we''ve got a weekend to n."

    Rayna smiled as she ended the call, already looking forward to their first meeting and what the weekend had in store.

    She couldn''t wait to tell Evelyn about it when she visits her new hometer in the day.

    She was going to make sure to go shopping for something sexy. Now that she was going to be having a date to the reunion, she wanted to wear the sexiest dress in the room.

 Chapter 145

    As Rayna drove through the gate of the estate where Evelyn''s new home was located, she cruised down the road slowly so she could appreciate the serene and beautiful environment. As she parked her car outside Evelyn''s new home, she smiled, impressed with Evelyn''s choice. Grabbing the tray of appetizers and a box of desserts, she made her way to the door. Evelyn greeted her with a wide smile, opening the door before Rayna could knock. "Ray! You made it!" she eximed, pulling her into a warm hug.

    "Of course I did! You know I wouldn''t miss this for the world." Rayna stepped back, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "This neighborhood is amazing, by the way. You''ve really outdone yourself." Evelynughed, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "I''m just d everything came together. I''ve been running around like crazy since we moved in, but it''s finally starting to feel like home."

    Rayna looked around as she stepped inside, admiring the high ceilings and the warm, inviting decor. "It''s gorgeous, Evie. Truly. I love the open system kitchen," she said with approval. And here, I brought some sweet little treats," she said, and Evelyn grinned. "Thanks. Derek would certainly love these. Come on in," Evelyn said, and she took the box of desserts from her as they headed towards the kitchen.

    "Where''s Derek?" Rayna asked, ncing around as she set the tray of appetizers down on the dining.

    "He''s on his way. Got caught up with a meeting, but he should be here soon," Evelyn replied as she opened the box of desserts and set them on the counter.

    "You''ve got enough food here to feed an army, Rayna!" Evelyn teased, eyeing the array of treats her friend had brought.

    "Well, I figured you''d be too busy to bake anything," Rayna grinned. "Plus, it''s your housewarming, so I had to go all out."

    Evelyn shook her head with a chuckle. "I don''t know what I''d do without you."

    "Exactly as you did for six years without me," she said dryly, and Evelyn giggled.

    "You''re never going to let go of that, I suppose," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded.

    "Yup. Never. What about Maya and Sammy?" Rayna asked as she arranged the desserts on a tray while Evelyn added the finishing touch to the meal.

    "Maya is keeping Samantha entertained in her bedroom. I was just finishing up in the kitchen."

    Rayna smiled, "Good. Now, why don''t you give me all that gist in person? What has it been like working with Sandra thesest couple of days? Is she still trying to steal your phone?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Of course. She''s growing frustrated by the day, though. I feel so sorry for her that I''m almost tempted to hand it to her," Evelyn said with a grin, and Raynaughed.

    "So, are we expecting anyone else for the housewarming?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn couldn''t help but wonder what Rayna was going to say or how she would react if she told her Ethan wasing.

    Instead of responding, she picked up a meatball and tossed it into her mouth, "Mm, this tastes divine," she said, changing the subject, "Your husband is going to be a very lucky man, whoever he is," Evelyn said, knowing that would get Rayna. Rayna''s eyes lit up mischievously. "Oh, by the way, I''ve got some juicy news."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow as she led her out of the kitchen, wanting to give her a quick tour of the house. "Oh? Why do I feel this is about ET?" Evelyn asked with a knowing smile.

    "Because it is. So," Rayna began, her voice brimming with excitement. "I think I''m in love with him, Ev. Like, seriously. I can''t stop thinking about him, and we haven''t even met yet!"

    Evelynughed softly, guiding her through the spacious living room. "We both know you fall fast, Ray, but you sound serious this time."

    "I am!" Rayna insisted. "I can''t wait to see him. And guess what? I''m nning on... well, you know, taking things to the next level when we meet."

    Evelyn''s eyes widened slightly, and she stopped at the foot of the staircase. "Already? Isn''t it a bit soon?"

    Rayna waved her hand dismissively, a yful grin on her face. "My heart is connected to my vjay, and trust me, it''s not soon enough." Evelyn burst outughing. "Ray, you''re impossible! I don''t know how I am friends with you."

    "I know, bute on, he''s perfect," Rayna said, her eyes dreamy. "We''ve been talking non-stop for thest couple of days, and it''s like we''reThis text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    this way with anyone before. He totally gets me. And do you know what is even more amazing? We agreed to meet on Saturday. Our first date begins with the reunion," she said with a grin, and Evelyn''s brows pulled together.

    "You don''t even know how he looks. What if he shows up and he''s not what you what? I mean physically?" Evelyn asked with concern.

    "Oh, trust me, I know he''s going to be everything I want. The universe can''t be so unfair as to make him look hideous when he has all these other amazing qualities," Rayna said, and Evelyn nodded.

    toFindNovel

    "I hope he looks like everything you want, Ray. I really want you to be happy," Evelyn said, and Rayna grinned.

    "Yeah. Thanks," Rayna said as they made their way upstairs.

    "You know where I am most curious to see? My bedroom. You made sure there is a best friend room, right?" She asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Sure. Come with me," Evelyn said as she led the way to the guestroom.

    As thedies disappeared up the stairs, Derek entered the house with Ethan. "1-1m. This ce looks nice, but it smells nicer," Ethan said, and Derek chuckled. "Make yourselffortable while I find Eve," Derek said, leaving his friend in the living room.

    Drawn to the scent wafting from the dining, he made his way over there with the bite of wine he had brought. He nced at the table covered in deliciouslooking appetizers and desserts, his stomach rumbling.

    He set down the bottle of wine and quickly popped a meatball into his mouth. He was in the middle of savoring it when Derek returned with Evelyn. "Babe, this is Ethan. Ethan Fischer. Ethan, this is the love of my life, Evelyn Quinn," Derek said, grinning as he introduced the two.

    Before Ethan could finish swallowing, Rayna, who had been using the restroom, emerged behind Evelyn and Derek, and she froze in the doorway. Her eyes locked with Ethan''s, and her heart skipped a beat. Ethan, in turn, choked on the appetizer, coughing as his face turned red.

 Chapter 146

    Rayna''s face contorted into a scowl as she turned to Evelyn while Ethan red at Derek.

    "Really, Evie? You nned this, didn''t you?" Rayna asked Evelyn.

    "Did you ask me over on purpose?" Ethan asked

    Derek, his tone equally confused and usatory.

    Evelyn looked between them. "Rayna''s my best friend, Ethan. I invited her to celebrate the housewarming with us."

    Derek stepped in. "Ethan''s my best friend, Rayna. I wanted him to see the house and meet Evelyn."

    Ethan shook his head, ring at Derek. "You could''ve done that any other day. Why today, when you knew she would be here?"

    Rayna crossed her arms, her voice sharp. "Exactly. Why today?"

    "At least you both agree on something. That''s a start," Evelyn joked, and Derek chuckled while Rayna and Ethan red at the couple.

    Before anyone else could speak, Samantha bounded into the room, her cheerful energy breaking the

    tension. "Daddy!" She called as she jumped on Derek, and he caught her.

    Ethan''s attention shifted to her, and Derek quickly introduced them. "Ethan, this is Samantha, my daughter," Derek said proudly. "Baby, this is my best friend, Ethan." Ethan smiled at the little girl. "It''s nice to meet you, Sam. You look so pretty," Ethan said, and Samantha blushed.

    "Thank you," she said with a shy smile as she nced at Rayna.

    "Hello, baby!" Rayna greeted and held out a hand to Samantha, who took it.

    "Did you bring me choctes or cakes?" She asked, and Rayna grinned.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "I brought you those and more," Rayna said, and Samantha did a happy dance.

    "You know, she is about E''s age. Maybe I could ask Sara to let me bring E over for a y date," Ethan suggested.

    Samantha perked up. "My best friend''s name is E!"

    Evelyn nced at Ethan, curious. "You know Sara and E? Now that I think about it, they have the samest name as you. Fischer."

    Ethan looked surprised. "Yeah, Sara is my sister-iw. How did you know?"

    Evelynughed. "Small world. I met Sara on

    Samantha''s first day at school."

    Derek chuckled, nudging Evelyn. "Looks like I was bound to find out about Samantha one way or another."

    Rayna, still annoyed, chimed in. "Good thing Evelyn told you. I hate dramatic reveals."

    "And here is the nanny of the century," Derek announced as Maya joined them, and Maya giggled shyly at the introduction.

    "Ethan, this is Maya, Sam''s wonderful nanny. Maya, this is Nathan, my best friend," Derek said, and Maya gave Nathan a polite nod before turning to Evelyn.

    "Sam and I will have our dinner upstairs," she said, and Evelyn gave her a nod.

    Samantha ran off with Maya, leaving the adults to continue their awkward conversation.

    As they sat down to eat, Rayna ignored Ethan and turned to Evelyn. "So, I guess now that we have the mother-inw''s approval, we will be hearing wedding bells soon, right?" She asked, looking from Evelyn to Derek.

    "As long as Evelyn will have me, sure," Derek said, and Rayna grinned. "Let''s hope she doesn''t bail this time," Rayna joked, and Evelyn giggled. "Shut up, Ray. Let''s focus on dinner," she said as she served the meal.

    Evelyn and Derek tried to make small talk so that

    Ethan and Rayna could converse, but no matter how much they tried, Rayna and Ethan refused to discuss the same subjects.

    After they had eaten for a while, Rayna looked at Evelyn and said, "So, do you want to go shopping tomorrow? We need to get a few things for the reunion this weekend."

    Ethan paused momentarily, his fork hovering in midair. Reunion? he thought, suddenly anxious. It couldn''t be the same reunion his golden sun was attending, right? Evelyn grinned. "We? Are you sure it''s about the reunion or it''s about your date?"

    Rayna giggled. "Both."

    Sandra," Derek said, but Evelyn shook her head.

    "Nah. Until everything is revealed, I''d like her to keep believing that she''s winning. It will be more satisfying to watch her make a fool of herself," Evelyn said, and Rayna giggled.

    "You have a point. I can picture her bragging and feeling all important that she is with Derek Stone," Rayna said, and Derek chuckled.

    "Why aren''t you saying anything?" Derek asked, looking at Ethan.

    Still trying to keep his cool, Ethan shed Evelyn an apologetic smile. "I wish I could help, but I have a date that day."

    Derek looked surprised. "You''re finally meeting your golden sun?"

    Ethan smiled. "Yep."

    Rayna''s face paled. She stared at Ethan in disbelief, and her heart skipped a beat when he briefly met her gaze. No... it couldn''t be him...

    Evelyn exchanged a look with Rayna, her eyes widening when she realized what was going on.

    "Wait, Ethan, were you the one who put out the marriage ad on Empowered Couple''s page?"

    Ethan nodded. "Yeah, that was me. How did you know?"

    Hearing that, Rayna shot up from her chair, grabbing her handbag. "Evelyn, I''m leaving."

    Derek, confused, watched as Rayna hurried to the door and Evelyn hurried after her. "What''s wrong with her?" he asked, looking at Ethan.

    Ethan didn''t say a word, but his gaze followed Rayna, a look of realization dawning on his face.

    It wasn''t a coincidence. It seemed like Rayna was actually his golden sun.

    Shit!

 Chapter 147

    How could this happen? Why did it have to be Ethan? After chatting for days and anticipating their date, how could the person she had fallen for be Ethan?

    This had to be a joke. This was a cruel joke. There was no way this could be happening to her, Rayna thought as she hurriedly headed for the door.

    Evelyn caught Rayna just as she got to her car. The evening air was cool, and the quiet around them only made the tension in Rayna''s posture more noticeable. Her friend looked lost in thought, her fingers nervously gripping her car keys.

    "Ray!" Evelyn called softly, catching up to her.

    Rayna paused but didn''t turn fully. She nced over her shoulder, her eyes already misting. "Evie, I... I can''t talk right now. I just need to be alone for a bit. Maybe we can talk tomorrow."

    Tears began to fall, and Evelyn''s heart clenched at the sight. She quickly moved closer, wrapping her arms around Rayna in a warm embrace.

    "Rayna, let''s go inside, okay? We can talk about this," Evelyn pleaded softly, not wanting Rayna to leave in that state, especially not when she was crying this way. She had never seen Rayna this emotional, and it made her worry.

    Rayna shook her head as she pulled away gently from Evelyn''s embrace, her teary gaze flickering towards the house.

    Shame burned her cheeks at the thought that she had spent days confiding in Evelyn about Ethan- gushing about his wit and charm when he couldn''t even stand her in reality.

    "I don''t want to talk about it right now, Evelyn," she whispered, her voice cracking as she fought back more tears. "Please, I just need to go," she said, wiping her tears.

    "I will let you go, but not in this state. You need to calm down," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded.

    "I''m calm," Rayna assured her, even though she didn''t look calm in any way.

    Evelyn followed Rayna as she unlocked her car and Evelyn got into the passenger seat, "Don''t overthink it, Ray. I know this is a lot to take in, but before you jump to conclusions, hear me out."

    "What is there to hear? It''s him. ET is Ethan."

    Evelyn sighed. "Yes. But listen, Ray, have you considered the fact that he might be your soul mate, as you said the other day? Isn''t this a good thing? I mean, what are the chances that you both connected this way despite everything?"

    Rayna shook her head, "This isn''t going to work."

    "Why not? Don''t you think the anonymity of the inte allowed you both to be more rxed and more open with each other so you could see you are meant for each other?" Evelyn asked softly. "We can''t even stand each other in real life. How did this happen?

    How could this happen? How could I have fallen for a man I can''t stand in person? Someone I can''t even have a civil conversation with in real life?" Rayna asked, breaking down in tears once again. "No. That''s not true. You can stand him. The only reason you are this way with him is because he refused to ept your apology and move on..."

    "Exactly! And somehow, I managed to fall for someone who despises me!"

    "You said ET said he is in love with you," Evelyn reminded her.

    "We both know Ethan doesn''t like me. Evelyn, please. I''m exhausted. I just want to go home. Please, let''s stop talking about this now," she begged. Evelyn nodded, understanding. "Alright. Drive safely. Don''t cry. Call me when you get home," she said as she stepped out of the car.

    Evelyn watched as Rayna drove off without another word, leaving her standing by the door, feeling the weight of her friend''s pain.

    As Evelyn returned inside, she noticed Ethan standing by the dining table, his coat in hand, clearly ready to leave as well.

    She opened her mouth to speak, but Derek caught her eye and subtly shook his head, signaling her to wait.

    Without a word, Derek walked over to Ethan, cing a reassuring hand on his shoulder, and escorted him out of the house.

    As Derek walked Ethan to his car, Ethan kept muttering to himself.

    He then turned to Derek once he got to his car, "This doesn''t make any sense. How can this be? How can she be Rayna? The name doesn''t even make any sense. How did she go from Rayna to Golden Sun? I used ET! Ethan, ET! She had me fooled!"

    Although Derek was amused by the situation, he knew thatughing now could earn him a punch from Ethan, so he tried to maintain a straight face.

    "Take it easy, man. Rayna isn''t so bad..."

    Before Derek could finish, Ethan shot him a re again, "Was it you? Did you tell Evelyn that I put out the ad, and you made her respond to it? Or was it Melvin and Sarah? Shit!" Ethan swore under his breath and kicked his car tire, setting off the theft rm. "Or maybe it''s just fate. Destiny," Derek said with a shrug.

    "That doesn''t make any sense. Why would it be her of all the people in the world?" Ethan asked, and then, with another curse under his breath, he got into his car and drove away.

    The moment he disappeared, Derek chuckled under his breath, unable to hold back hisughter anymore.

    "What''s so funny?" Evelyn asked, raising an eyebrow as she stepped outside to join him.

    She had been watching them from the window, and the moment Ethan drove off, she hurried out to meet Derek. She wanted to know what Ethan said since she had been unable to hear him.

    Derek let out a soft chuckle, "The whole situation. If you think about it, it''s funny."

    Evelyn shook her head, "I guess it is, but I can''t find the humor in it right now. Not when Rayna is so heartbroken. What did Ethan say?"This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Derek shook his head. "He''s still in denial. He didn''t say much. He just wants to be alone for a while."

    "The same as Rayna. She was crying but wouldn''t talk about it," Evelyn said with a sigh, crossing her arms.

    Derek walked over to her and rubbed her arms, "Don''t lose sleep over it. I''m sure those two will find a way to fix things. It seems like we didn''t really have to invite them over after all. They''re meant to be."

    "What if they don''t fix things? Do you really think Ethan is going to want to fix things? Rayna believes that he hates her. The problem between them is from Ethan, not Rayna," Evelyn said, and Derek nodded thoughtfully.

    "It is true that Ethan holds grudges. But I''m sure they will be fine, Evie. Let''s give them time. I believe they will sort things out. Ethan won''t let something silly get in the way of what he has found and can have with Rayna." She sighed softly, leaning into Derek''sforting presence. "I hope you''re right."

    Evelyn wasn''t so sure. She could stilli see the hurt in Rayna''s eyes, and she knew her friend well enough to know that this wasn''t just a small issue. But Derek''s calm reassured her a little since he knew Ethan well enough. Maybe he was right. Perhaps they just needed some space to figure things out on their own.

 Chapter 148

    Ethan''s mind was racing, his heart pounding with frustration as he drove away into the night.

    How could this be happening?

    Rayna... Golden Sun?

    The thought kept spinning in his head, and the more he thought about all their conversations and how well they had synced, the angrier he became.

    He knew something was off. There was absolutely no way this could have been a coincidence. How else could he exin that of everyone who had applied, she had been the only one to refuse to give her real name or even show him her pictures?

    She had to have known he was the one, even though she had been pretending not to know the whole time. She had deliberately lured him in and seduced him into falling for her.

    How dare she be the woman he had fallen for? All these while he had spent his time talking to Rayna?

    This had to be some kind of setup. And he had a pretty good idea of who might have been behind it. Ethan''s fingers gripped the steering wheel tightly as he drove down the quiet streets toward his brother''s house instead of his.

    He pulled into Melvin''s driveway with a sharp jerk, barely able to keep hisposure. He mmed the car door shut and stormed up to the front door. The moment he walked inside, he found his brother lounging on the couch, scrolling through his phone like he didn''t have a care in the world.

    Melvin looked up, his eyebrows raised at the sight of Ethan''s furious expression. "Whoa, what''s with the look? You lose a million bucks or something?"

    Ethan didn''t waste any time. He red at his brother, his voice low and cold. "Were you behind it?"

    Melvin blinked in confusion, sitting up straighter. "Behind what?"

    "Don''t y dumb with me, Mel. Did you tell Rayna about the marriage ad and make her apply for it?" Ethan''s voice was growing louder, his frustration and impatience leaking through with every word.

    Melvin''s eyes widened in genuine surprise, and for a second, he just stared at Ethan like he had lost his mind. "Wait... what? Rayna responded to the ad?"This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    Ethan clenched his fists, trying to keep his temper in check. He was already at the edge, and Melvin''s clueless expression wasn''t helping. "Don''t act like you didn''t know. Did you and Sarah n this? Did you tell her to apply and make her look like the perfect match for me?" Before Melvin could respond, Sarah waddled into the room, her hand resting on her belly. She gave Ethan a concerned look.

    "What''s going on? Why are you so furious, Tan?"

    Ethan shifted his re to her, his voice sharp. "Were you in on this, too? Did you two set this up? Did you tell Rayna to apply and make her seem like the perfect woman for me?"

    Melvin and Sarah exchanged a quick nce, something passing between them that only made Ethan more frustrated. His sister-inw''s lips twitched, and she tilted her head. "Wait... Rayna? Is she the ''Golden Sun'' you were always talking about?" Ethan''s face flushed with embarrassment. He rubbed the back of his neck, avoiding their gazes as he muttered, "Yes."

    Melvin let out a snort ofughter, and Sarah''s eyes lit up with amusement. In the next second, they both burst intoughter, unable to contain themselves.

    Ethan''s scowl deepened. "This isn''t funny."

    "Oh, but it is funny," Sarah giggled, wiping a tear from her eye. "We told you, Tan! We told you that Rayna was perfect for you, but no, you were too stubborn to listen!"

    Melvin was still chuckling as he leaned back on the couch. "Yeah, man. You''ve been pining over her this whole time and didn''t even realize it. How did you figure it out, anyway?"

    "I''m not in the mood to talk about it," Ethan snapped, pacing the living room like a caged animal. "Just tell me if you two had anything to do with it."

    Finally catching his breath, Melvin looked at him with a raised brow. "Do you really think I was the one who helped you choose ''Golden Sun'' from your list of candidates? Or that Sarah was standing by Raynas side every time she talked to you, telling her what to say to make her perfect for you?"

    Ethan stopped pacing, his hands still clenched at his sides. He didn''t know what to believe anymore. How was this possible if they didn''t have a hand in this? How could someone like Rayna be his perfectdy? Melvin''s expression softened slightly. "Listen, man, I don''t know why you''re so mad at Rayna, but that... that is something you''re going to have to let go of if you really want to get married to someone special.''

    "Yes, Tan. Mel is right. Think about it: you put out the ad hoping for just a wife for yourself and a mother for your future kids, but you were lucky enough to find love and friendship. How many people do you think are that lucky? I think you should be able to forgive and forget whatever Rayna did to get you so upset, Sarah said softly.

    Ethan stared at his brother and sister-inw for a moment, his mind buzzing with a thousand thoughts. Without another word, he turned on his heel and stormed out of the house, mming the door behind him. He cursed under his breath as he walked back to his car, his frustration boiling over.

    How could the universe y such a dumb trick on him? No way!

    There was absolutely no way he was going to get married to Rayna.

    He was just going to start afresh. If need be, he would go back to the remaining fourdies on the list. He was very certain that he would find someone among them.

    Anyone else would be better for him than Rayna. Anyone else, he told himself, but as he got into his bed a short whileter, he couldn''t help the ache in his chest. He couldn''t help the feeling of disappointment that overwhelmed him.

    He had been looking forward to meeting his Golden Sun. He had been looking forward to their first date. How was he supposed to find someone else who would sync with him as she had done?

    How was he going to get over this overwhelming heartache?

    This was all his fault, and he deserved it. He should have insisted she send in her pictures. He should have asked to meet before his emotions got in the way. He had lost focus, and now he had himself to me for this disappointment and heartbreak.

 Chapter 149

    149

    The next morning, Evelyn sat at her desk, her fingers tapping restlessly against the cool surface as she stared nkly at herputer screen.

    Her mind wasn''t on work. It was far from it. She was thinking about Rayna. The image of her friend''s tear-streaked face fromst night haunted her, making it impossible to focus.

    Rayna had always been the one with a level head, the one to offer advice and support. Now, seeing her like that, broken and vulnerable, made Evelyn feel utterly helpless.

    She sighed and picked up her phone, dialing Raynas number again, hoping that this time she''d pick up. But once more, the call went straight to voicemail.

    ''Her phone must be off, Evelyn thought, biting her lip anxiously.

    What was she supposed to do now? Rayna needed her, and she didn''t know how to help.

    As the minutes dragged on, Evelyn found herself spiraling deeper into worry. She couldn''t shake the guilt that weighed heavy on her chest. Rayna had always been there for her- Rayna had been her rock. But now, when it was Rayna who needed support, Evelyn felt lost.

    I have to do something, she thought. Maybe instead of giving Rayna space, she could swing by her ce during her lunch break.

    Even if Rayna didn''t want to talk, Evelyn could at least check in on her and make sure she wasn''t crying alone.

    ncing at the time, she pushed her chair back and stood up when she saw it was a few minutes before lunch break. As she grabbed her handbag and headed for the door, another thought intruded, one that had been lingering at the back of her mind for some days.

    Liam.

    He had promised to call her after he got back to Hu, but he hadn''t. She had brushed it off initially, thinking he was probably busy, but now she wondered if it was because he was avoiding her.

    The thought stung more than she cared to admit, and so without thinking, once Evelyn got into a cab, she pulled out her phone and scrolled to Liam''s name in her contacts.

    She hesitated only for a moment, her thumb hovering over the call symbol as she thought of what to say.

    Liam had seemed so sincere when he confessed his feelings for her, and it made her wonder if she should bring up the awkward conversation they had. She shook her head.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    No. She was not going to do that. It was best to leave that as it was. There was no reason to do so when he knew about Derek. She didn''t owe him an apology for being with someone else. It wasn''t like she was doing anything wrong by being with Derek.

    Maybe she was reading too much into it. She just needed to check in to confirm that he arrived safely and see how he was doing. That was what friends did.

    Taking a deep breath, she dialed his line and brought the phone to her ear, listening to the ringing tone. After a few moments, Liam picked up.

    "Hey, Evelyn, his voice came through the line, though it sounded distant, distracted.

    "Liam, hi," Evelyn said, feeling a little awkward when she didn''t hear the usual cheerfulness in his voice. "I just wanted to see how you''re doing. You said you''d call once you got back, but I hadn''t heard from you, so..."

    There was a pause on the other end, long enough for Evelyn to wonder if the connection had dropped. Then, Liam sighed. "Yeah, I''ve been really busy. Sorry about that. Look, I''m in the middle of something right now, but I''ll call you backter, okay?" Before Evelyn could respond, the line went dead. She blinked, pulling the phone away from her ear and staring at the screen.

    Busy? Liam hadn''t even given her a chance to say more. He had never hung up first, no matter how busy he was. The dismissal stung, even if he didn''t mean it that way.

    Concluding that maybe he needed space from her, she decided to respect that and let him be, hoping that he woulde aroundtely. He was a nice friend, and she didn''t want to lose their friendship.

    Away from there, Liam leaned back on the couch in his apartment, staring at the phone in his hand. The lie had slipped out so easily.

    He wasn''t really busy- not in the way he''d made it sound. But he couldn''t bring himself to have a proper conversation with Evelyn right now. Not after he had made aplete fool of himself.

    He nced around the apartment, the boxes still stacked against the walls. He hadn''t even unpacked properly yet because he was still regretting his decision.

    The truth was, he hadn''t gone back to Hu as he told them. He had not traveled down for a conference either. He had applied for a job in Ludus and had moved down to be closer to her and Samantha. He had nned to surprise her, to show her that he was ready to be part of her life. But seeing her with Derek had crushed any hope he had. And now, he didn''t know what to do.

    Coming to Ludus had seemed like the right decision at the time.

    He had thought that if he were closer to Evelyn, maybe she would be more willing to ept him when he told her how he felt, but instead, he had walked straight into a situation he hadn''t anticipated.

    He thought sadly that he had been such a fool to have assumed that Evelyn was still single and that maybe she had been waiting for him to make a move.

    Even though she hadn''t exactly introduced Derek as her man, when he saw her with Derek- the way they interacted, the way she looked at him-Liam knew he had been wrong. Evelyn wasn''t single, and neither was she waiting for him.

    A part of him regretted not telling her sooner. If he had, maybe things would have been different. Perhaps he wouldn''t be sitting here, hiding out in an apartment in Ludus, avoiding her because he was too embarrassed to admit he had followed his heart moved and down here for her.

    He was just going to have to keep avoiding her, he thought grimly.

    That was the n, at least for now. He didn''t want toplicate her life by letting her know he was in Ludus. He didn''t want her to feel guilty for turning him down or for choosing someone else.

    He stood up, walked over to the window, and looked out at the quiet street below. Ludus was supposed to be a fresh start for him. But now, it just felt like a mistake.

    He had made up his mind. He would stay out of Evelyn''s way for now and focus on settling into his new life. Maybe with time, things would feel less awkward, and he could reach out to her again without the weight of his feelings hanging between them. For now, though, it was best to keep his distance.

 Chapter 150

    Sandra sat at her desk, fingers flying across her keyboard as she worked through thetest project reports. The office was quiet, save for the tap-tap sound of her keyboard. It was the kind of afternoon when the minutes dragged, and yet she was too focused on her tasks to notice.

    With Evelyn working directly with her, she had to work extra hard now since she could tell Evelyn was looking for an excuse to use her of shirking her duties.

    Her phone buzzed on the desk, pulling her from her work. A sense of unease settled in her stomach when she nced at the screen and saw Michael''s name disyed there. Taking a deep breath, she received the call.

    "What''s up, babe?" Michael''s voice came through, calm and to the point. "Any luck getting rid of the video from Evelyn''s phone yet?"

    Sandra sighed, frustrated. She had tried, but Evelyn was too careful, always keeping the phone close. "No," she admitted, "I haven''t been able to get to it. She''s been more guarded than usual.

    If I didn''t know better, I''d think she knew what I was up to. Or maybe she knows. She acts like a know-it-all witch."

    Michael exhaled loudly, and she could picture him pinching the bridge of his nose in irritation. "Forget it then," he said finally, "it''s been days already, and seeing as my aunt hasn''t done anything, it seems she listened to me and decided not to pursue the hotel incident. Let''s leave it alone for now. We will get it when she leases suspects."

    Relief washed over Sandra. That video had been a constant worry guing her mind. Michael''s next words made her heart skip.

    "Let''s meet after work tonight," he said. "Come over to my ce."

    Sandra''s eyes flicked around the quiet office, instinctively lowering her voice. "Won''t that be risky? You never can tell who is watching us."

    Michael chuckled dismissively. "At this point, I think my ce is safer for us. You can leave your car and take a cab. I''ll be waiting."

    Before Sandra could respond, her phone chimed with another iing call. She nced at the screen, and a smile lit her face when she saw that it was Derek''s mom.

    "Mike, I have to call you back," she said hurriedly. "Your aunt is on the other line."

    "Alright," Michael said. "Let me know what she says when you''re done."

    Sandra ended the call with Michael and immediately switched to Mrs. Stones. Forcing her voice into a bright, respectful tone, she greeted, "Hello, Reba. How are you doing today?"

    Although hearing Sandra address her so casually now grated on her nerves, she tried to keep her calm. "I''m fine, my dear. Are you busy? I''d like to go shopping, and I was hoping you could apany me," she said in her usual cheerful voice.

    Sandra''s heart leaped. An invitation to shop with Derek''s mother was another opportunity to secure her ce in the Stone family, and it was not one she could pass up. "No, I''m not busy at all," she lied smoothly. "Where would you like me to meet you?"

    "I will text you the details now. See you soon""" she said before hanging up.

    As soon as the call ended, Sandra''s lips curved into a smile of triumph. She quickly gathered her things, eager to make a good impression.

    On her way out of the office, she noticed Evelyn''s desk was empty.

    Sandra paused, her brows knitting together. Where had Evelyn gone?

    She was tempted to investigate but decided against it. Whatever Evelyn was up to, it didn''t matter right now. Mrs. Stone was waiting, and this was far more important.

    As Sandra drove to the upscale mall not too far away, she called Michael to let him know she was meeting up with his aunt. Thest thing she wanted was for Michael to get in her way now. She could always get rid of him after achieving her goal.

    By the time Sandra arrived at the restaurant within the mall, Mrs. Stone was already seated, sipping a ss of wine, and looking poised and elegant as usual.

    She greeted Sandra with a sweet smile. "Thank you foring on such short notice, darling."

    "It''s my pleasure. I''m happy to help with whatever you need" Sandra said with a bright smile, eager to please her.

    They soon headed to the boutique nearby, and as they walked through the rows of high-end clothing and essories, Mrs. Stone began picking out items.

    She handed them to Sandra, who dutifully carried everything withoutint. Sandra''s arms ached, but she didn''t let it show.

    She wanted Mrs. Stone to see her as reliable, as someone who could handle anything.

    Although Mrs Stone knew that the load was too much for Sandra, she heaped on more and more items that she didn''t need. This was her own petty way of making Sandra suffer for making a fool of her. This was the best she could do for the time being until everything was revealed and she received proper punishment.

    After several hours of shopping, they sat down to catch their breath and ordered two sses of iced coffee. Mrs. Stone eyed Sandra over the rim of her ss before speaking. "My 60th birthday ising up soon."

    Sandra''s eyes widened with excitement. "That''s wonderful! You must be so excited. Do you have ns for the celebration?"

    Mrs. Stone nodded, her gaze steady on Sandra. "Yes, and I''d like you to help me n it."

    Sandra''s heart soared. This was huge. Helping Mrs. Stone with her birthday party would not only solidify her ce in the family but might also bring her closer to Derek. "Of course! I''d be honored to help. What kind of event are you thinking of?"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Mrs. Stone took a slow sip of her coffee. "Something intimate.

    Just the families- my family and yours."

    "

    Sandra blinked, surprised. "My family? Does that mean my parents are invited too?"

    Mrs. Stone nodded. "Yes. Your parents will be there. It''s going to be a significant night."

    Sandra''s cheeks flushed, her mind racing. Was Mrs. Stone hinting that Derek might propose to her at the party? She could hardly contain her excitement. "I''ll make sure it''s a perfect evening," she promised. "You won''t have to worry about a thing."

    Mrs. Stone leaned back in her chair, her expression unreadable. "I don''t want anything extravagant, just something that brings the families together," she said since the party Sandra was nning wasn''t going to be the main event.

    Sandra nodded eagerly, already imagining the grand event she could pull together. "Leave it to me," she said confidently. "I''ll take care of everything."

    There was a pause, and then Sandra hesitated before adding,

    "Would it be alright if I invited Evelyn? I know you''re not very fond of her, but she''s still family, and it would be nice for her to be there, even if she is... you know, the ck sheep of our family."

    Mrs. Stone''s lips thinned into a slight smile. "As long as you can guarantee that she won''t cause any trouble, I suppose she cane."

    Sandra smirked inwardly, already picturing Evelyn''s shock when she saw her standing beside Derek, wearing an engagement ring. "She won''t cause any trouble," Sandra promised, her voice sweet.

    "I''ll handle her."

    As they finished their coffee and prepared to leave, Sandra''s mind buzzed with ns. The party was going to be her moment. Evelyn would be humiliated, and she would finally secure her ce by Derek''s side.

    She just had to y her cards right.

 Chapter 151

    Evelyn''s day had been long, and by the time she stepped out of the cab in front of her home, the weight of exhaustion settled deep in her bones.

    She straightened her coat as she walked up the path, a quiet sigh escaping her lips. All she wanted was a calm evening with Samantha, maybe some tea, and to copse on the couch for a while.

    As she unlocked the door, the soft murmur of voices drifted toward her. One was unmistakably Samantha''s bright chatter, and the other, to her surprise, was Derek''s. She paused in the doorway, blinking as she took in the scene.

    She turned around, and only then did she notice that she had missed his car, which was parked outside.

    Derek was seated on the floor with Samantha, a school assignment spread out in front of them. He was helping her with a math problem, and his voice was patient as he exined something. Samantha''s eyes sparkled as she nodded enthusiastically, clearly thrilled to have him there.

    "Daddy, I got it!" Samantha beamed, scribbling an answer down on her worksheet.

    Evelyn stood there, warmth spreading through her chest as she watched them. She hadn''t expected to see Derek here tonight. She stepped inside quietly, but Samantha was quick to spot her.

    "Mommy!" Samantha called out excitedly, jumping up to her feet.

    "Daddy''s helping me with my homework!"

    Evelyn smiled, though still a little surprised. "I see that, sweetheart.

    You''re doing great." She looked up at Derek, her brow furrowing slightly. "When did you leave your office?"

    Derek rose from the floor, stretching his arms as he regarded her with a soft smile. "A while ago. You look exhausted, baby. Come sit down for a bit." His voice was gentle and filled with concern.

    Without thinking, Evelyn moved toward him and sank into the chair close to him, the tension in her shoulders easing. Derek wasted no time, going to stand behind her and cing his hands on her shoulders, massaging gently. Evelyn closed her eyes briefly, grateful for the moment of respite.

    Samantha, who had been watching them with a wide grin, giggled.

    "Daddy''s giving Mommy a massage!" she announced gleefully.

    Derek chuckled, leaning down to kiss the top of Evelyn''s head.

    "Baby, could you please get your mom a ss of water?"

    "Sure!" Samantha bounced out of the room happily, leaving the two of them alone for a moment.

    As soon as she was gone, Derek lowered his voice. "I was at Michael''s ce earlier. That was the reason I got off work early," He paused, his hands continuing to work the knots from her muscles. "I''m close to getting the final piece of evidence we need. I nted cameras and bugs. We just need thisst bit of proof, and you''ll be cleared."

    Evelyns eyes flew open, her breath catching. "You went to Michael''s house? You nted-" She stopped, her mind racing.

    "Derek, are you sure that''s a good idea?"

    "I''m sure," he said confidently, his hands stilling as he met her gaze. "It''s thest and most important piece of evidence we need to prove your innocence. Once we have it, there''s no going back for them. You''ll be free of this mess, and we can focus on us." Before she could respond, Samantha returned, proudly holding out a ss of water. "Here you go, Mommy!"

    Evelyn smiled, taking the ss from her. "Thank you, sweetie."

    Derek straightened up, looking between them. "So, was your day?"

    Evelyn took a sip of the water, her mind still swirling with what Derek had just told her. She still had questions but could hardly ask them in front of Samantha. "I was busy working on an article for most of it. And then I tried to visit Rayna, but she wasn''t at home or the bakery. Her phone is off. I''m very worried about her."

    Derek nodded, cing a reassuring hand on her arm. "Don''t worry.

    Rayna will be fine."

    "Have you heard from Ethan?" Evelyn asked, unable to keep the concern from her voice.

    Derek shook his head. "No, I haven''t. I tried to reach out, but his phone was off. But I wouldn''t worry about him either. He knows how to take care of himself."

    Evelyn nodded, though the anxiety still gnawed at her. She was about to say something more when Derek casually dropped another piece of information.

    "My parents asked if they coulde over on Sunday," he said as he sat down beside her.

    Evelyn''s eyes widened slightly. "Really? Well, that''s funny because mine areing over too."

    Derek grinned. "Well, that''s perfect then. We can make it a family affair. Samantha gets to have all her grandparents dote on her at the same time," He said, and Samantha giggled.

    "Are you going somewhere?" Evelyn asked curiously when she caught him ncing at his watch.

    "I''m expecting a delivery right about now," he replied with a small smile.

    "A delivery? Here? What are you expecting?"

    "You will see soon," he said with a cryptic grin, standing up. Just as he spoke, a car horn honked outside.

    Derek''s grin widened. "Come on," he said, taking her hand. "You''ll want to see this."

    Evelyn, still a little confused, followed him outside. The moment they stepped out the door, her eyes widened in shock.

    Parked in front of the house were two brand-new cars.

    "What- what is this?" Evelyn stammered, turning to Derek.

    Derek smiled, watching her face light up with surprise. "One''s for you, and the other is for Samantha."

    Samantha, who had followed them outside, squealed in delight and ran toward the smaller car. "This is mine? Daddy, really?" she shouted, her joy infectious.

    "Yes, princess. That one''s yours," Derek said as the drivers of both cars stepped out of the cars and brought the keys to him.

    "Here you go, babe," Derek said, handing the keys to Evelyn, who was still stunned.

    She turned to Derek, her eyes brimming with emotion. "I- Derek, this is too much."

    He pulled her into a tight embrace, his voice soft against her ear.

    "Nothing is too much for you, Eve. You deserve it. No more cabs.

    You can use your car now."

    Evelyn pulled back, her eyes shining. "We have to go for a test drive," she said, smiling.

    "But I can''t drive. Is it for when I''m older?" Samantha asked, and both Evelyn and Derekughed.

    "No, princess. You will get a bigger car when you grow older. For now, you''ll have a driver, or Maya can drive you," Derek said, and Evelyn''s expression faltered. "Wait... Where''s Maya? I haven''t seen her since I got back," Evelyn realized.

    Derek''s smile faded slightly. "She''s resting upstairs. She wasn''t feeling well earlier."

    Evelyn frowned, recalling that she had mentioned having cramps that morning. It must be serious if she''s in need of rest. never agrees to take a break." Evelyn nced back at the house, worry creeping into her voice.

    will check on her."

    "Will

    She quickly made her way to Maya''s room and knocked gently before entering. Maya was lying on her bed, her face pale.

    "Maya, what''s wrong?" Evelyn asked, sitting on the edge of the bed.

    "Just... cramps," Maya murmured, her voice strained. "They''ve been getting worse these past few months."

    Evelyn''s worry deepened. "Have you taken anything?"

    "Yeah, some medicine. I just need to lie down for a bit. I''ll be fine," Maya reassured her, though her difort was evident. Evelyn hesitated, her brow furrowing. "You''ve never mentioned them being this bad before."

    Maya gave her a small, tired smile. "It''s gotten worse recently, but I''m okay. I''ll rest."

    "Yeah, you should rest," Evelyn said, though she wasn''t entirely convinced. "I''ll make dinner soon. I''ll bring some up to you, okay? And if this persists, you will have to visit the hospital tomorrow.

    You should see a gynecologist and find out if there is an underlying reason for this," Evelyn said, and Maya gave her a weak nod.

    After checking on Maya, Evelyn returned downstairs to find Derek and Samantha still admiring the cars. She approached Derek with a soft smile.

    "So, are you spending the night?" she asked.

    Derek looked down at her, his gaze warm. "Is that your way of asking me to?"

    Evelyn nodded, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. "Maybe."

    "Then I should," he said with a grin.

    Before she could say more, her phone buzzed. She pulled it out and saw Rayna''s name on the screen. Her heart leaped with relief, and she quickly walked away from Derek and Samantha as she answered.

    "Rayna! I''ve been so worried! Why

    didn''t you call me back? For someone who wouldn''t forgive me for running off without saying a word years ago, you sure do know how to pull a disappearing act yourself."

    Raynaughed softly, to her relief, "I''m sorry, Evie. I just needed to think." Her voice was light but apologetic.

    Evelyn sighed, a mixture of relief and frustration bubbling up.

    "Where were you? I even came by your ce and the bakery! Don''t shut me out like that again. I was so worried."

    "I know, I know. I''m sorry. I left the house for a while. But I''m fine now. In fact, I''ve made up my mind."

    Evelyn''s heart lifted. "You have?"

    "Yes. You are right. Ethan being ET,

    is a sign that we are meant to be. I don''t care what he thinks. I''m going after him. Whether he likes it or not, he''s my soulmate. I''m not letting him go over some petty

    OVN?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    misunderstanding."

    Evelyn couldn''t help butugh. "Now, that''s the Rayna I know!"

    "That''s me, baby! On that note, are you up for shopping tomorrow?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    "I''m up for anything as long as it''s with you. Let''s do it," Evelyn said, and Rayna screeched happily.

    As she ended the call, she returned to Derek, who had been watching her curiously, "Ethan better buckle up, ''cause what Ray wants, Ray gets!" She said with a grin, and Derek chuckled.

 Chapter 152

    As Sandra sat in the back of the cab on her way to Michael''s ce, she rested her head against the cool window as her thoughts flitted back to the time she''d spent shopping with Derek''s mother and how seamlessly she was fitting into the family.

    Thinking about what Derek''s mom had said about her parents being present at the birthday party and about it being a significant night, Sandra raised her hand to look at her finger, and she smiled as she imagined a diamond ring on it.

    Thinking about Derek proposing to her on that night, she decided that even though Derek''s mother had asked her to make the party an intimate affair, it wouldn''t be a bad idea for the party to be covered and put on the front page of the magazine- that way news of her engagement to Derek would be made public faster.

    She sighed dreamily at the thought of finally being Mrs. Stone.

    Nothing and nobody could stop her now- not Evelyn, and definitely not Michael. She was going to take care of them.

    Evelyn was always going to be a threat to her as long as Evelyn knew about her and Michael''s affair. She couldn''t have that.

    After what Michael tried to do, she knew that he, too, was a threat.

    He would always want to hold something over her, and she couldn''t have anyone ckmailing her.

    She might have failed thest time with the drugging incident, but she wouldn''t fail again. She couldn''t afford to. That was why she was nning something even bigger and better now for those two. A permanent way to get rid of them. She was going to use one stone to kill two birds.

    Not wanting to dwell on that, she took her phone out of her purse and dialed Derek''s number with a smile. The phone rang twice before Derek picked up.

    Away from there, Derek was seated in the dining with Evelyn and Samantha, having dinner as Samantha told them all about school.

    Derek''s phone vibrated on the table, and he nced at the screen.

    "It''s Sandra," he muttered under his breath, trying not to show his irritation.

    "Shouldn''t she be on her way to Michael''s or with him already? You should answer it," Evelyn said, her voice gentle but firm.

    Derek hesitated, his eyes darting to Samantha, who was happily nibbling on her pasta, unaware of the tension.

    Evelyn chuckled at his reluctance, knowing why he didn''t want to take it in front of her. "Go on. I don''t mind," she said, waving him off with a smile. "Just don''t take too long."

    With a sigh, Derek got up from the table, shaking his head as he nced at Samantha again. Evelynughed softly, amused by his internal struggle, as he excused himself from the table and walked into the hallway for some privacy.

    He answered the call. "Hello, Sandra."

    Sandra''s pout was almost audible through the phone. "I always have to be the one calling you, Derek. Do you ever miss me?"

    Derek rubbed his forehead, his patience thinning. "We''ve been over this several times, Sandra. You know I''m busy. Are you sure you want to be with someone who''s always tied up with work? You might end up lonely. Maybe it''s best we end things if you can''t cope." There was a brief silence before Sandra quickly reassured him, her voice suddenly soft and eager. "I don''t mind as long as youe back home to me every night. That''s all that matters."

    Derek leaned against the wall, staring at the ceiling. "If that''s enough for you.." he said, trailing off. He could already feel the strings of Sandra''s ambitions pulling at the edges of their nonexistent rtionship.

    Sandra, however, was undeterred. "So, I went shopping with your mother today," she said brightly, wanting to change the subject. "It was so much fun! We picked out a few things for you, too."

    Derek raised an eyebrow. "That''s nice. I''m d to hear you''re getting along with her. She''s important to me."

    Sandra giggled, clearly trying to steer the conversation in her favor.

    "Oh, and she told me her birthday is in three weeks. Guess who''s nning it?"

    Derek chuckled, already seeing through her subtle attempts. "Let me guess- you?"

    "Mmm-hmm!" Sandra''s voice was light and yful. "She said it''s going to be a significant night, and my family was invited. I want it to be special, Derek. So, I was thinking... Maybe I could invite a couple of reporters and have my magazine cover the event. You know, make it morous! What do you think?"

    Derek smiled slightly. He knew exactly what she was fishing for. "If that''s what you want, Sandra, go ahead. I don''t mind."

    Sandra was practically glowing through the phone now. "You don''t mind? Really?"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Derekughed softly. "Sure, I''ve got a big announcement to make that night, so it''s probably to have them there."

    There was a gasp on the other end of the line. "A big announcement? What is it?" she asked eagerly.

    He shook his head, amusement coloring his voice. "Now, Sandra, if I told you, it wouldn''t be a surprise, would it? Don''t ruin the surprise by asking too many questions."

    She let out a breathless giggle, delighted that she was right, and he nned to propose. "Well, I''ll have to make sure I wear something spectacr then. You''ll love it, I promise."

    Derek sighed, already tired of the charade. "I''m sure you''ll look great. Now, I really have to get back to work."

    "Alright, alright," Sandra said, still giddy. "I''ll let you go. Just don''t forget our ns for this weekend, okay? You have to pick me up."

    "Sure. I haven''t forgotten," Derek replied, and with that, he ended the call.

    He turned around to head back to the dining room but stopped in his tracks when he saw Evelyn standing in the doorway, leaning against the frame with her arms crossed and a curious smile on her face.

    "So," she said, raising an eyebrow. "What was that about?"

    Derek chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "She seems to think I''m going to propose to her at my mother''s birthday party. She''s already nning to have reporters cover the whole thing. She''s in for a surprise, just not the one she''s expecting." Evelyn shook her head, her smile fading. "I don''t think that is a good idea, Derek. It will be a public disgrace not only for her but for our parents."

    Derek shrugged. "It''s her idea. If she wants to expose herself to the world, that''s on her. Besides, your parents did nothing wrong to feel embarrassed," he said, and she sighed.

    "Come on. Let''s get back to Samantha," he said softly, touching her arm and she followed him even though there was a flicker of worry in her eyes.

    Away from there, as Sandra got out

    of the cab outside Michaels house, she took a deep breath, reminding herself that she had to stay in

    control. Michael was just a means to an end. This would all be over soon, and she''d finally have everything she wanted-Derek, his family''s wealth, and the respect she craved.

    She could feel the tension rising as she walked up to the door and rang the bell. ncing around, she hoped no one was watching.

    The door opened, and there he was, standing in the doorway with a ss of wine in hand, a smirk ying on his lips.

    "Well, well, I was beginning to think you wouldn''t show up," Michael said, stepping aside to let her in.

    Sandra walked past him into the living room, her heels clicking softly against the floor. "Why wouldn''t I? We''ve already resolved our differences." Her voice was calm, but she couldn''t help ncing around the room, half-expecting some hidden camera to pop out.

    Michael''s eyes followed her gaze, and he chuckled. "Looking for something?" he asked, taking a sip of his wine.

    Sandra turned to face him, her lips curving into a half-smile. "Just making sure you didn''t set up any secret cameras," she said, her tone light but with a hint of caution.

    Michael raised his ss in a mock toast. "I have no reason to do that, Sandy. You don''t need to worry."

    She shrugged, dismissing the thought, but there was always a small part of her that couldn''t fully trust him anymore. "Good," she said, walking over to the sofa and sitting down.

    "Would you like a drink?" Michael asked, and she eyed the bottle but shook her head.

    "Thanks. But I''m not in the mood for one tonight."

    Michael sat down across from her, his expression yful but with an underlying intensity. "Fine," he said as he set down his ss.

    Sandra leaned forward in her seat, "So, I have a suggestion..."

    "Let''s talk after... I didn''t invite you to talk."

    Sandra knew precisely what he meant, and although she hated every moment of it, she forced herself to smile. "Alright," she murmured, standing up slowly and walking toward the room. There was no point in resisting. She still needed him on her side-for now.

    As Michael tried to catch his breath after he was done having sex with her, she walked away to the bathroom to clean up, feeling irritated by the act.

    As she returned to join him, Michael nced at her. "You weren''t as... responsive tonight, he said, his voice low and disapproving.

    Sandra sighed, "I have a lot on my mind," she admitted as she sat down, then turned to face him. "Why don''t you go and freshen up so we can talk?"

    Michael raised an eyebrow. "Whatever you have to say must be pretty important to you," he said and when she nodded he rose and walked into the bathroom to freshen up.

    As he walked away, Sandra picked up his phone to confirm that he wasn''t recording their conversation. Evelyn had taught her a valuable lesson, and she couldn''t take chances anymore.

    She returned to the living room with both their phones and sat there as she waited for him to join her again.

    "So, what''s on your mind?" Michael asked as he joined her a momentter.

    Sandra crossed her arms, her expression serious. "I think we should get rid of Evelyn."

    Michael paused for a moment, and then he sighed in exasperation. "Sandra, we''ve been over this. You said you didn''t want to deal with Evelyn anymore. Why are you still stuck on her?" Sandra''s eyes narrowed as she leaned closer to him. "Because as long as she knows about our affair, she''s a threat to both of us.

    Don''t you see that?"

    Michael shook his head, looking tired. "She''s not going to do anything. She hasn''t even said or done anything since the hotel incident. She is keeping her distance, and you should, too. Stop being paranoid."

    Sandra clenched her jaw, her voice

    turning cold. "No, Michael. I''m not being paranoid. I''m being practical. The fact that she hasn''t even said or done anything despite all she knows is what worries me most. What if she is waiting for the perfect moment to do that? Evelyn could ruin everything. We can''t afford to let her walk around knowing what she knows."

    Michael stared at her, his expression shifting from confusion to shock as he realized what she was suggesting. "You''re talking about killing her," he said, his voice low. Sandra didn''t flinch. "Yes, I am."

    Michael''s eyes widened, and he leaned back, shaking his head.

    "Sandra, that''s... that''s insane. Why would you go that far?"

    She gave him a stern look. "Because

    I''m tired of Evelyn. I want her gone, permanently. I don''t want her

    stealing my parents from me or anything. And by doing this, we both have something on our hands Neither of us can betray the other without going down with them."

    Michael stared at her for a long moment, trying to process what she was saying. He had always known Sandra was ambitious, but this... this was another level. "I''ll... think about it," he said finally, not knowing what else to say. Sandra''s gaze was unrelenting. "Don''t take too long. I want it done before your aunt''s birthday when Derek proposes to me. I can''t have Evelyn hovering over us like a dark cloud."

    "Derek told you already that he''s going to propose?" Michael asked, and she smiled.

    "Both he and his mother hinted at it. Why else would they want my parents to be at the party?" she said, and Michael nodded.

    "That''s good," Michael said, and Sandra smiled.

    "Good? It''s more than good. It is wonderful. Amazing. We are almost at our destination. All that is left now is to take out the obstacle on our path," Sandra said, but Michael didn''t respond. He just stared at her, with uncertainty clouding his mind. As much as he agreed with her that they would get rid of Evelyn if she would ruin their ns, he wasn''t sure what Sandra was thinking. He wasn''t certain yet if he could still trust her.

 Chapter 153

    153

    The room was bathed in the soft glow of the bedsidemp as Dereky beside Evelyn, his arms wrapped around her. His fingers absentmindedly stroked her hair as he watched her sleep peacefully.

    He could tell she was pretty exhausted, seeing how she had slept off in the middle of their conversation about getting more help around the house to reduce Maya''s workload. That way, Maya could focus solely on Samantha. Suddenly, a sharp ping broke through the stillness of the room.

    Derek''s phone lit up on the nightstand. Frowning at the noise and worried it might disturb Evelyn''s sleep, he carefully extracted his arm from beneath Evelyn and reached for the device.

    More pings followed, causing his curiosity to be piqued as the screen shed with a string of notifications.

    Derek unlocked the phone to see a series of voice recordings and videos from his source, who was monitoring the bugs and camera in Michael''s apartment.

    His stomach tightened when he saw the subject line of one of the audio read: Urgent.

    Before he could delve deeper, Evelyn stirred beside him. Her eyes fluttered open, dizzy and confused by the sudden noise. "What''s that?" she mumbled, sitting up and rubbing her eyes. "Who''s messaging you at this hour?" Derek sighed, giving her a sheepish smile. "Sorry for waking you, babe. It''s... it''s about Sandra and Michael. I think it''s important."

    At the mention of those names, Evelyn immediately sat up straighter, concern, etching lines on her face. "What did they do this time?"

    Derek''s eyes narrowed as he stared at his phone. "I haven''t listened yet. It''s a bunch of recordings and videos. The fact that they''re sending it thiste means it must be important."

    He yed the urgent recording, and both of them listened intently as Sandra''s voice crackled through the speakers. Her tone was calcting and full of malice as she suggested they get rid of Evelyn.

    Evelyn''s breath hitched, her skin paling as the blood drained from her face. She clutched the nket tightly, her heart pounding in her chest. Derek''s hand froze around the phone as he felt a rush of fury surging through him. "She''s nning to... kill me," Evelyn whispered, her voice trembling and full of disbelief.

    She had known that Sandra didn''t like her, but it shocked her to hear Sandra hated her to the point of talking about getting rid of her so casually. What did she ever do to deserve such a level of hatred?

    Derek mmed his phone down on the bed after the recording ended, his expression dark and unforgiving. His jaw clenched, barely able to contain the rage simmering beneath the surface.

    "What kind of a person is she?" He asked, and then when he turned to Evelyn and saw how pale she was, he shook his head.

    "I won''t let that happen. I swear to you, Evelyn, Sandra''s going to pay for this. I will submit this to the police and get her arrested.

    She won''t get anywhere near you," he promised fervently.

    Evelyn shook her head, tears welling in her eyes. "We can''t use this evidence, Derek. It was obtained illegally. If we go to the police, how will you exin nting bugs in Michael''s house?"

    Derek''s face hardened, his mind racing as he tried to find a solution. When he nted the bug and cameras, all he had wanted was evidence to show their family that those two were having an affair. He hadn''t expected Sandra to go this far or to capture something like this. "I didn''t think she would actually n something this extreme..."

    Evelyn bit her lip, still shaken. "Neither did I. I don''t understand why she hates me so much."

    Derek took her hand, squeezing it gently. "I''m going to have her phone bugged. It''s obvious that Sandra is more dangerous than Vichael at this point. I''ll make sure she slips up somewhere that can be used against her."

    Evelyn swallowed hard, her voice barely audible. "How am I supposed to look her in the face now? How do I act normal around someone who''s plotting my murder?"

    "You won''t have to put up with her for long," Derek said firmly, pulling her back into his arms. "I''ll deal with this. I promise you.

    But you need to try and get some sleep."

    Evelyn stared at him incredulously. "How do you expect me to sleep after hearing my sister is nning to kill me?"

    Derek sighed, holding her tighter as he brushed a strand of hair from her face. "I know that was hard to hear, but staying awake won''t solve this. You''re going to work tomorrow, so you should try to get some rest. I promise I won''t let her touch even a strand of your hair. I''ll keep you safe."

    "If she ns to kill me, what do you think she would do to Samantha if she finds out she is yours?" Evelyn asked, her thoughts drifting to Samantha.

    "Do you trust me?" Derek asked, lifting her chin with his forefinger so we would look into his eyes.

    Evelyn held his gaze for a moment before giving him a nod, "Then believe me when I say no harm wille to you or Samantha.

    There is no length I wouldn''t go to keep you both safe. Now go to sleep," Derek said as he turned off the bedsidemp, plunging the room into darkness.

    As Derek held Evelyn close in the darkness, he felt her body trembling against his, her silent tears soaking into his shirt. His heart broke for her, but beneath his sadness, anger boiled within him.

    He held Evelyn closer, his mind already calcting his next move.

    He was going to protect her, even if it meant destroying Sandra in the process.

    Sandra had crossed a line in her schemes, and he would make sure she paid for it whether or not she was Evelyn''s sister. No matter what it took, he was going to catch her red-handed and put an end to her ns.

    Evelyn pulled into thepany parking lot in her new car the next morning. The silver exterior gleamed under the morning sunlight as she found a spot near the entrance.

    It was a new model, thetest, and for a moment, she allowed herself a flicker of pride as she got out of the car, but that flicker of pride vanished the moment she saw Sandra''s car pulling in beside

    her.

    Evelyn stiffened, her heart thumping as memories from the previous night surged back. The voice recording of Sandra''s cold clipped words echoed in her mind - telling Michael they should kill her. She had tossed and turned all night, barely sleeping. And when sleep dide, it was full of nightmares- nightmares of Sandra standing over her with a knife.

    Now, seeing Sandra step out of her car, every muscle in Evelyn''s body tensed. She wasn''t sure what to do or what to say. Could she act like everything was normal and pretend to know nothing? Telling herself that she didn''t have to say a word to Sandra, she started to walk away, but that didn''t stop Sandra from hurrying to catch up with her.

    "Evie, I see you''ve got a new car. It''s

    a beauty. Congrattions," Sandra said lightly with a smile stered across her face, even though her stomach churned with jealousy and annoyance at the sight of Evelyn driving such an expensive car. This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    She couldn''t help but wonder how Evelyn had been able to afford it or if it was her daughter''s father who had gotten her the car.

    On the other hand, Evelyn''s mouth went dry, her thoughts racing.

    Her stomach churned as she imagined Sandra getting someone to tamper with the car while she worked, cutting the brakes and setting her up for an "ident."

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed slightly as Evelyn remained silent. "Why so quiet this morning?" she asked, her voice taking on a mocking edge. "Come on, we should get inside. We have a lot of articles to review."

    As Sandra turned to head toward the

    building, something inside Evelyn snapped. She couldn''t let it go on

    like this, She couldn''t live in fear,

    constantly wondering what sheet

    to make Sandra hate her to

    the point

    of wanting her dead all for a man.

    "Sandra," Evelyn''s voice came out more forceful than she had intended. Sandra paused, her back still turned. "Why do you hate me so much?"

    Sandra slowly turned around, her face nk, as if she hadn''t heard Evelyn properly. "What are you talking about?" she asked, her tone casual, but there was an edge beneath it.

    Evelyn clenched her fists at her sides. "Don''t act like you don''t know. We''re alone now. Just tell me. Why do you hate me? Why have you been doing everything to make my life miserable? What did I do to deserve this?"

    Sandra sighed, the smile vanishing from her face. She nced around the empty lot before her eyesnded back on Evelyn. "Is this another one of your attempts to record me and use it against me?" she asked coldly. "I''m not recording anything. I just want to know. I need to know." Evelyn''s voice wavered slightly, but she held her ground.

    Sandra didn''t respond right away. Instead, she pulled out her phone, her fingers flying across the screen. After a moment, she turned the screen toward Evelyn.

    [How can you ask that? Have you forgotten already how you treated me like trash the first time your father married my mother?]

    Evelyn''s eyes widened as she read the words. Her mind raced back to those years, but nothing about Sandra''s usation seemed right.

    "That''s not true," Evelyn said, shaking her head.

    Sandra snorted, her fingers moved again, furiously typing out another message.

    [Your father spent all his time

    treating you like a princess and trying to make you happy, while my mother tried to be good to you and win your heart as your stepmom. You got all the attention while I was ignored. You always got everything first-every decision, every gift, every bit of attention. I was always left with your leftovers, always standing in your shadow. You decided where we went to high school and where we went to college. You were always in control, and I was just... there. Wherever we went, you took all the attention. You were always the golden one.

    Nothing I did could everpare to you. I hate you for it. I always have.]

    Evelyn felt a cold chill sweep through her as she read the message. She opened her mouth to protest, to defend herself, but the words stuck in her throat. Was that really how Sandra had seen things all this time? She had never thought about it that way- never thought that Sandra felt so overshadowed. "But that''s not true..." Evelyn whispered, her voice small, her chest tight with disbelief and hurt. "I am your older sister and...

    "Sister? You''re not my sister," Sandra interrupted, her eyes dark with old resentment as she lowered her phone for a moment and locked eyes with Evelyn.

    Evelyn felt like the ground had been pulled from under her. "Have you always felt this way? Has there never been a moment when you thought of me as your sister or friend? Not even once?" Evelyn asked, her voice breaking slightly. Sandra''s lips curled into a bitter smile. "Sister? Friend? No, Evelyn.

    Never. You ve never been either to me. I''ve hated you for as long as I can remember," Sandra replied coldly. She turned on her heel and walked toward the entrance, leaving Evelyn standing there, frozen in ce.

    Evelyn stared at her, stunned into silence, her heart pounding. This whole time, she had thought it was mere jealousy and greed, but now she realized she was wrong. She was facing a hatred so deep it shook her.

 Chapter 154

    Evelyn stood frozen in the parking lot, her legs trembling beneath her. Sandra''s light, mocking words echoed in her head, but all Evelyn could hear was that cold, calcting voice from the night before-suggesting they get rid of her. How was she supposed to act normal around someone who harbored such hatred? She mused as she nced toward the entrance of the building, wanting nothing more than to flee, but her body refused to move. Her eyes stung as tears welled up, blurring her vision. A lump formed in her throat, and before she could stop herself, she turned on her heel and headed back to her car. Evelyn slid i d into

    the driver''s seat, her hands shaking as she fumbled to close the door. Once she was safely inside, she broke down. Hot, silent tears streamed down her cheeks, and her chest heaved with the effort of suppressing her sobs. She gripped the steering wheel, knuckles turning white, her whole body trembling. How could Sandra despise her so much?

    Somehow, hearing those words directly from Sandra hurt much more than the act of betrayal itself.

    She had believed that Sandra did all that because she was in love with Michael and they were a greedy pair who wanted to reap where they did not sow at any cost, but she didn''t imagine that all their time together had been a lie.

    Her phone buzzed in herp, but she ignored it for a moment, too overwhelmed to do anything. After several seconds, she wiped her face, blinking back the tears as she picked up the phone. It was Rayna. Without thinking, she tapped the call button. "Hey, girl! Guess what I''m up to!" Rayna''s cheerful voice filled her ear, but Evelyn couldn''t respond.

    Evelyn sniffed, trying to hold back another wave of tears, but it was no use. The moment Rayna heard the silence, her tone shifted immediately. "Evelyn? What''s wrong? Why are you crying?" Evelyn let out a shaky breath, her voice cracking. "It''s Sandra...

    "Sandra?" Rayna''s voice sharpened with concern. "What happened? Did she say or do something?"

    "She... she hates me, Rayna. I thought it was just sibling rivalry or something, but it''s worse than that." Evelyn could barely get the words out, her chest tightening with every breath.

    "Okay. Calm down and tell me exactly what happened. Take a deep breath first," Rayna said, and Evelyn did as she asked.

    Rayna listened quietly as Evelyn told her all about her exchange with Sandra that morning, and then she frowned.

    "I''m missing something. Why did you choose to ask her that this morning? Did something trigger your question?" Rayna asked, wondering why Evelyn had asked Sandra why she hated her. "She told Michael they should... kill me."

    There was a moment of stunned silence on the other end of the line before Rayna''s voice returned, now filled with shock. "What?

    Are you serious? She actually said that?"

    "I heard it. I listened to a recording of her saying it. She''s nning to get rid of me. Can you believe it, Ray?"

    Rayna sucked in a sharp breath. "Evelyn, this is bing really serious. Have you gone to the police?"

    Evelyn wiped her tear-streaked face, shaking her head even though Rayna couldn''t see her. "How can I go to the police? The recording was gotten from bugging Michael''s house. It''s illegal evidence." Rayna was quiet for a moment, then her voice softened. "What did Derek say?"Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    "He promised to take care of it," Evelyn whispered. "But I''m scared, Rayna. I''m so terrified. What if something happens to me? To Samantha? They know about her now. I don''t know what they''ll do if they find out she is Derek''s." Rayna''s voice was serious now.

    "Evelyn, it''s normal to be worried.

    I''d be terrified, too. Sandra''s always given me the vibe that she''s in some sort ofpetition with you, but I never thought it was this deep. She''s clearly dangerous, and this isn''t something you can ignore."

    "I don''t even feel safe driving my car anymore," Evelyn admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "What if she tampers with it?

    Cuts the brakes or something?"

    Rayna let out a nervousugh, trying to lighten the mood. Well, first of all, what car are we talking about?"

    Evelyn paused for a moment, realizing she hadn''t told Rayna about the car yesterday. "Derek bought me a new car. One for me and one for Samantha. We were checking it out when you called yesterday."

    Rayna screeched with excitement on the other end. "Girl! Why didn''t you tell me sooner? We need to celebrate this! Forget about Sandra for a second- this is a big deal!"

    Despite everything, a small smile tugged at the corners of Evelyn''s mouth. "I know, I just... it''s hard to enjoy anything right now. I keep thinking about what Sandra might do. What if she tries to tamper with the car? I barely slept after listening to the recordingst night. Each time I closed my eyes, all I could see was Sandra with a knife."

    Rayna''s tone sobered again. "Look, if you''re really that worried, maybe leave the car at home for now and take a cab to work. But honestly, if Sandra''s desperate enough to hurt you, she''ll find a way, car or no car."

    Evelyn sighed, exhaustion washing over her. "I''m so tired, Rayna. I don''t want any harm toe to me or Samantha. Maybe I should just... leave. Get out of town. Take Samantha and go somewhere safe."

    Rayna''s voice turned firm. "No. You''re not running away. I reject every spirit of cowardice speaking through you right now, Evelyn."

    Evelyn couldn''t help butugh, even through her tears. "I''m serious, Rayna. I''m scared."

    "I know you are, and it''s okay to be scared," Rayna said gently. "But you can''t let that fear control you. You need to trust Derek. He''s already handling it, and you said they have eyes on Sandra and Michael. You''re not alone in this. If you need my help in any way, all you have to do is let me know."

    Before Evelyn could respond, her phone buzzed with an iing call. She nced at the screen and sighed when she saw the call was from Derek. "Rayna, can I call you back? Derek''s calling." "Really, bitch? You''re going to hang up on me so you can talk to a man?" Rayan joked, and Evelynughed weakly.

    "It might be important. I''ll call you back. I promise."

    Rayna chuckled. "Of course. Go talk to your man. You can call me back muchter, okay?"

    Evelyn smiled. "I will. Thanks."

    As Rayna hung up, Evelyn quickly switched over to Derek''s call.

    "Hey," she said, her voice soft.

    "Are you at the office now?" Derek''s voice was calm, but there was a hint of concern.

    He had seen how worried she was when they both were getting ready for work that morning, and he knew she hadn''t slept well since she had woken up several times with a startled gasp. "No... I''m still in my car."

    There was a pause on the other end before Derek spoke again.

    "You okay? Finding it hard to face her?"

    Evelyn hesitated. "I... I ran into her in the parking lot already. She was acting all friendly, like nothing was wrong, and it just... it shook me. I couldn''t stop thinking about what she saidst night. I confronted her."

    "You told her about the recording?" Derek asked, rmed.

    "No, not that," Evelyn said, and then she went on to tell him about the conversation. As she spoke, she broke down in tears again.

    Derek''s voice hardened. "I told you not to worry about Sandra. I will handle her. I promise."

    "What if she tampers with my car?" Evelyn asked, her anxiety creeping back in. "What if she tries to..."

    "I''m not taking any chances," Derek interrupted firmly. "I''m getting you a driver. He''ll double as your bodyguard, and I''ll do the same for Samantha.

    Neither of you is going anywhere alone from now on. Her phone''s going to be bugged by the end of today. We''ll find out everything she''s nning."

    Evelyn felt a wave of relief wash over her. "Okay... that sounds like a good idea."

    Derek''s voice softened. "I love you. I don''t want you to be scared.

    I''m going to protect you. You and Samantha- no one''s going to hurt you."

    Tears filled her eyes again, but they weren''t from fear this time. "I love you too," she whispered.

    Derek paused, "Say that again," he said, and she frowned.

    "What?" Evelyn asked in confusion.

    "Repeat what you just said," Derek said with a wide smile. "That I love you too?" Evelyn asked, and Derek chuckled. "Yes. Tell me you love me, he said happily, and she giggled.

    "I love you, Derek. I love you so much," she said, and he grinned happily.

    "Good. Finally, I don''t have to say it without a response," Derek said, his tone lighter now. "Now, go inside and get through the day.

    I''ll check in with youter. And by the end of the day, I''ll get the bodyguard," he promised.

    Evelyn took a deep breath, wiping her face onest time. "Alright.

    Thanks. Talk to youter."

    As she hung up, a sense of calm began to settle over her. Sandra might be dangerous, but once again, she had been reminded that she wasn''t alone in this fight. Derek and Rayna were both looking out for her. And with that thought, she fixed her makeup and stepped out of the car, ready to face the day ahead.

 Chapter 155

    Rayna wiped her flour-dusted hands on her apron and carefully closed the lid of the box she had just packed with an assortment of pastries.

    The aroma of fresh muffins, brownies, and her signature lemon tarts filled the small kitchen in her bakery.

    She smiled as she took off her apron, knowing that Melvin and Sarah would appreciate the sweet treats. But her smile faded as she grabbed her keys and headed out to her car. Her thoughts drifted to Ethan.

    How do I get through to him?'' Rayna asked herself, the question circling her mind as she drove down the road leading to Melvin and Sarah''s house.

    She tried

    to reach him by phonest night and this morning, but he seemed to have blockedlisted her line.

    Rayna sighed, hoping that maybe Melvin and Sarah could help.

    They had always been warm and understanding, and she had been told that they hade to find her at the bakery the previous day.

    She believed that was because they knew what was up, and she hoped they would know what to do to fix her and Ethan.

    They had to.

    Ethan was the man for her, and she didn''t want to believe that she had messed it up carelessly. The idea that he had once told her he loved her only made it harder to bear his loss.

    She pulled into the driveway of Melvin and Sarah''s cozy home, the house that always felt weing and full of life. As she parked her car and grabbed the box of pastries, she tried to shake off her got this!"

    nerves.

    Taking a deep breath, she told herself to rx. "You''re a bad bite Red out, her round belly leading the way. She grinned, her face lighting up at the sight of Rayna.

    The front door opened before she even reached it, and Sarah waddled

    "Rayna! Oh, you''re a sight for sore eyes!" Sarah beamed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "And you brought treats! You have no idea how much I''ve been craving something sweet." Raynaughed, handing her the box. "I thought you might like these. I made extra lemon tarts, just for you." "You''re a a saint,"

    Sarah sighed, carefully opening the box and peeking inside. "Melvin, look what Rayna brought!" she called over her shoulder.

    Melvin appeared in the doorway, his easy grin in ce. "Hey, Rayna! Come on in. Sarah''s been over the moon since you called to say you wereing over."

    Rayna followed them into the house, feeling a bit of warmth and hope spread through her. Maybe this would help. Maybe Melvin and Sarah could give her the advice she needed to deal with Ethan.

    As they settled into the living room, Sarah popped a tart into her mouth and sighed with contentment. "These are heaven, Rayna."

    "Wait till you try out my new recipe," Rayna said with a proud smile as she settledfortably in her seat.

    Ito reach you all day yesterday and even the night before.

    "We tried to

    What happened with Ethan? He''s been in such a foul mood since two nights ago, and he''s not even taking calls or anything. Why is he so mad at you?" Melvin said, and Rayna shifted in her seat, feeling the weight of their attention on her. She took a deep breath and began to exin. "It was a misunderstanding," Rayna said and then exined the incident at the club.

    Sarah frowned, her brows knitting together. "That''s why he''s upset? Because of the club incident?" "Yeah."

    Rayna nodded.

    Melvin''s expression softened, and he sighed. "Harassment is a sensitive subject for Ethan. He has been through something like this before. Back in high school, a girl he rejected used him of rape. It was pretty serious. He could''ve gone to jail if there hadn''t been Saran ghed deeply, "I guess it makes sense why he is upset now.

    e probably was triggered by the usation."

    He p

    Rayna felt a pang of guilt twist in her chest. "I didn''t know. I had no idea."

    Melvin said gently. "But Ethan holds han holds grudges. It''s usually not easy for him to let things go."

    "I know," Me

    Rayna looked at Sarah, hoping for a solution. "Do you think there''s anything I can do to change his mind? I ran into him at the grocery storest Saturday and..."

    "You both mest Saturday?" Sarah interrupted, her face curious.

    Ethan had not mentioned anything about running into Rayna that day.

    "Yeah... we sort of grabbed the same box of cereal. It was thest on the shelf. He said it was for you, so I let him have it," Rayna exined.

    Sarah and Melvin exchanged an amused look, and then both burst intoughter.

    At that, Sarah

    "What?" Rayna asked, bewildered. "What''s so funny?"

    Ray

    shaking his head. "Rayna, the cereal wasn''t for Sarah. It was for Ethan."

    you, Rayna. I only rmended the store to him because he said he was going grocery shopping."

    in confusion. "Wait, what? He lied? He said it was for Sarah, so I let him take it!"

    I chuckled ked im

    Saran giggled. "Looks like he yed can''t believe he took my box of cereals yet refused to ept my apology," Rayna said as she looked from Sarah to Melvin and then back again.

    Rayna shook her head in disbelief. "I

    "Listen, I believe that Ethan is my soul mate. He might not think so right now, but I believe he is, and I don''t want to lose him. Can you both tell me what to do to win his heart?" Rayna pleaded.

    "I wish I could help. But after seeing how upset he was because he thought we told you about his ad and made you apply for it, I do not want to get involved," Melvin said apologetically.

    Sarah''s eyes twinkled mischievously. "Oh, Rayna, you''re a beautifuldy. Use your feminine wiles! Ethan''s still a man, after all. And trust me, you''re his Golden Sun. No matter how upset he is, he won''t be able to resist you forever." Rayna sighed. "I don''t even know how to reach him. He''s blocked me everywhere."

    "Well," Sarah said, ncing at Melvin, who looked hesitant, "I can give you his address."

    "Sarah..." Melvin warned, but Sarah ignored him.

    "It''s okay, Mel. Rayna''s practically family already," Sarah said with a grin. She scribbled down an address and handed it to Rayna. "I really hope you two work things out. I''d love for you to be my sister-inw."

    Rayna smiled gratefully, tucking the address into her pocket. "I hope so, too."

    Just as she stood to leave, she saw Ethan standing there in the hallway, and his expression hardened the moment their eyes met.

    "I see you''re all still plotting," he said, his voice cold even though his heart ached at the sight of her. He couldn''t believe that this was thedy he had been on the phone with for all those hours.

    Rayna''s heart sank, but she forced herself to meet his gaze. "Can we talk?"

    Before Ethan could respond, Melvin and Sarah quickly stood up, awkward smiles on their faces.

    "We''ll, uh, leave you two to it," Melvin said, ushering Sarah out of the room with the box of sweet treats in hand.

    Once they were gone, Rayna took a deep breath. "I''m really sorry about what happened at the club and at the grocery store. I didn''t mean to..."

    Ethan looked at her, his jaw tight. "Forget it. Nothing''s going to change. Let''s pretend the ad never happened and all those calls... let''s forget all about them," Ethan said as he turned to leave. "But you told me you loved me. How can you just forget all about them?"

    Rayna asked, stopping him before he could leave, her voice barely a whisper.

    "I loved the version of you I didn''t know was you," Ethan replied harshly. "It doesn''t matter anymore. I made a mistake. Let''s forget it. I''m an unforgiving jerk, remember?"

    Raynas heart ached at his words, but she couldn''t give up.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    "Please, Ethan. Can we just put this whole thing behind us? I messed up. I''m sorry. You said I''m your soul mate, remember?"

    Ethan shook his head, his expression unreadable. "I told that to all the other fourdies too. You''re not an exception. There was nothing special..."

    "Don''t, Ethan!" Rayna stopped him.

    Ethan took a deep breath. "I don''t hold anything against you. I''m not interested in you enough to hold any grudges. I don''t want

    someone like you in my life. You can move on now, ''cause I have.

    I''m meeting with the nextdy on my list," Ethan said, and with that, he turned on his heel and walked away, leaving Rayna standing there.

    She had not expected him to show up here, listen to her, or make things work out easily.

    He was mad, and she understood better now that Melvin had told her why he was so pissed about the club incident. She knew it was going to take some time to earn his forgiveness and win his heart, but she was going to do that.

 Chapter 156

    Evelyn sat at her desk, ncing at the clock for the fifth time in ten minutes. It was finally Friday, and she had managed to avoid interacting closely with Sandra for thest two days since their exchange in the parking lot.

    Having the bodyguard Derek promised made her feel a little safer, but knowing Sandra was lurking around, pretending to be innocent, still sent chills down her spine.

    Evelyn sighed and gathered her things. She had promised Rayna they''d go shopping today, and it was an excellent excuse to leave work early. After everything that had happened, some time with her best friend sounded perfect. Besides, they both needed to find outfits for the high school reunion the next day.

    She sent Rayna a quick text to say she was on her way and walked out of the office to her car where her bodyguard sat, waiting.

    Evelyn couldn''t help but feel odd about having a bodyguard - it was as though her life had turned into some thriller movie. But with everything happening with Sandra, she was grateful Derek had insisted on it.

    By the time she got to the mall, Rayna was waiting for her at the entrance with a big smile on her face as usual, but Evelyn could tell something was off.

    "Hey, you okay?" Evelyn asked as soon as they hugged.

    "Sure," Rayna said as they entered the brightly lit mall, "So, where is the card?" Rayna asked with forced enthusiasm.

    Evelynughed as she brought out the card which Derek had given her and shed it at Rayna, "He said we can buy as much as we want and not just for the reunion."

    "How does it feel to be with such a wealthy guy? I know you''re not with him for money, but there are people who get love but not money, and there are people who get love and money with not-so-good-looking guys, but you got theplete package. How does it feel?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn giggled.

    "It feels wonderful" she admitted.

    "I bet it does" Rayna said as they walked into one of their favorite stores, a boutique filled with stylish dresses perfect for the reunion.

    As they sifted through the racks, Evelyn asked, "So, what''s the update? How are things going with ET?"

    Rayna''s smile faded, and she sighed heavily. "The situation with Ethan is driving me crazy, Evie," Rayna said with a shake of her head, her expression troubled.

    Evelyn nced over at her friend, concern etched on her face. "I guess he''s still not willing to see you?"

    Rayna groaned in frustration. "He''s still not talking to me. I tried reaching out, but nothing. I''m beginning to believe he meant what he said about moving on. I don''t know what to do anymore."

    Evelyn tried to think of the right words tofort her friend. "I''m sure if it is meant to be, he''lle around," Evelyn said, her voice calm and steady.

    "Maybe he still needs time. At least you understand why he felt so upset now. Anyone in his shoes would

    be triggered. And Derek also said that when Ethan is hurt, he shuts people out but alwayses back."

    Rayna shook her head, her frustration clear. "Maybe this is different. Maybe I''m really not his type physically, and he doesn''t like me. I''m at my wit''s end. I don''t know how much more of this I can take. Maybe I''m just wasting my time, and I should listen to him and move

    on."

    Evelyn paused, holding up a soft, burgundy dress in front of the mirror. She nced at Rayna''s reflection. "If anyone can figure this out, it''s you, Rayna. You''ve got this. Just... take a step back, breathe, and give him some space. It''s all going to work out." "What if while I''m doing that, he gets married to one of the otherdies? I heard from Sarah this morning. She told me he went on a date with one of the otherdiesst night," Rayna said with tears

    in her eyes, and Evelyn reached out to embrace her, understanding now why she was upset.

    "What is yours will always be yours, Ray. It doesn''t matter if it takes a year or two..."

    "Or six? I don''t want to wait that long to prove that theory right or wrong while he is banging otherdies," Rayna cut in with a giggle, and Evelynughed, amused that despite her tears, Rayna could still crack jokes.

    Before Evelyn could respond, they heard a familiar voice call out to Rayna. "Rayna!"

    Evelyn''s heart sank. She didn''t even need to turn around to know who it was. Sandra.

    Rayna turned, her jaw tightening, but Evelyn ced a hand on her arm, giving her a quick look. "Act normal," she whispered.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    Rayna rolled her eyes but forced a smile as Sandra approached, dressed in a chic outfit that looked a little too polished for a casual shopping trip. "Oh, what a coincidence! Don''t tell me you are here to shop for the reunion too?" Sandra asked,pletely ignoring Evelyn.

    Rayna smiled, though it felt like a mask. "Yeah, just picking out a few things."

    Sandraughed her voice light but carrying a sharp edge that made Evelyn''s skin prickle. "I''m here for the same thing! My fianc¨¦, Derek, wanted toe with me, but he was too busy with work so he gave me his card to shop. Isn''t he just the sweetest?" Evelyn barely held back a snort. Derek''s card? She had Derek''s card. Rayna caught her eye, and they exchanged a quick, knowing nce.

    "Wow, Sandy," Rayna said, her tone sweet butced with sarcasm.

    "You''re so lucky to have a fianc¨¦ like Derek."

    Sandra smiled, but there was something cruel behind it. "I know, right? I was here thest time with Derek''s Mom. She''s such a wonderfuldy, and I can''t wait to be her daughter-inw. The funny thing is that no matter how many women try to seduce him, Derek will always be way out of their league."

    Evelyn couldn''t help butugh at the irony. The truth of the situation was delicious, but she kept herposure. "I''m going to check out the fitting rooms while you both catch up," she said casually, turning to head deeper into the store. No matter what Sandra tried, Evelyn knew she had her friend''s loyalty- and that was something Sandra would never understand.

    As soon as Evelyn was out of earshot, Rayna turned to Sandra, her patience wearing thin. "Why the snide remarks, Sandy? And why did you ignore Evie that way? Have you not resolved things with her yet?"

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Resolve things? After she tried to drug me to set me up with Michael and take pictures to show Derek? I don''t think so."

    Rayna shook her head but said nothing out of fear of losing her temper.

    Sandra smirked and leaned in closer. "You know what I''m wondering right now? I wonder why you are here with Evelyn. Why didn''t you ask me toe shopping instead of Evelyn."

    Rayna''s expression hardened. "Because Evelyn doesn''t only reach out to me when she needs to gossip or when she wants a favor.

    Evelyn is my friend, and she knows me better than you do. That''s why I prefer herpany," Rayna snapped, and with that, she turned and walked away, leaving Sandra standing there, her face flushing with anger and jealousy. Sandra''s eyes followed Rayna, her jaw clenched as she watched her go. Evelyn, who was already inside a changing room, hadn''t heard the exchange but would have enjoyed watching Sandra''s petty mask crumble. Rayna had a triumphant smile on her face as she joined Evelyn.

    "Can you believe that snake had the nerve to ask me why I came shopping with you and not her? You should''ve seen her face when

    I told her why I''m here with you and not her."

    Evelyn grinned as she stepped out of the changing room, showing Rayna the dress she had chosen. "Tell me everything."

    As they shared a quietugh inside, Sandra stood in the store, ring at the changing room door. She decided that she had had enough, and it was time to get rid of Evelyn, with or without Michael''s support.

 Chapter 157

    Derek leaned back in his chair as he sipped his whiskey. Ethan sat across from him, nursing a beer, his gaze distant as he stared at the wall behind Derek''s shoulder. The lounge was their usual hangout spot, cozy and familiar, but tonight was different. Ethan was not his usual funny and chatty self, and it was ring.

    Derek studied Ethan for a moment, watching his friend''s face for any sign of emotion. "So, what''s going on with you, man? How are you really feeling about the whole situation with Rayna?" Derek asked, breaking the silence that had settled between them after their pleasantries and small talk about work. Ethan took a slow sip of his beer, his expression unreadable. "I''m fine," he said tly. "I''ve moved on."

    Derek raised an eyebrow. "Really? Just like that?"

    Ethan shrugged. "Yeah. Just like that."

    Derek set his ss down on the table with a soft thud, leaning forward. You don''t just move on from someone you imed to love, Ethan. You don''t just flip a switch and pretend everything''s fine." Ethan''s jaw tightened, but he said nothing, his eyes still fixed on the wall.

    "Come on, man," Derek pressed, his voice quieter now. "You''re holding on to this grudge like it''s going to fix things. She''s apologized, Ethan. More than once, to the best of my knowledge.

    Is losing your golden sun over that misunderstanding really worth it?"

    Ethan''s grip on his beer bottle tightened, and for a moment, Derek thought he was going to answer. But instead, Ethan sighed and shook his head. "Can you stop calling her that? Or better still, can we just talk about something else?" Before Derek could respond, his phone buzzed on the table, the screen lighting up with a message notification. He nced down, his brow furrowing when he saw the message was from his source, and it read ''Urgent.''

    He quickly clicked on it to see it had an attachment: a voice recording.

    "Hold on a second," Derek muttered, grabbing his earbud from his pocket and connecting it to his phone. He yed the recording, his face paling as he listened.

    It was Sandra.

    "It''s time for you to get the job done, Sandra''s voice said coldly through the recording. "Make sure it doesn''t look like a kidnapping.

    When she leaves the reunion tomorrow, grab her before she gets to her car. She seems to have a bodyguard, so find a way to distract him. But don''t make it obvious. We need to make sure no one suspects foul y. I want it to be clean."

    Derek''s heart pounded in his chest, and his blood ran cold as he listened to Sandra give more instructions. She wanted Michael kidnapped and then Evelyn. The n was to make it appear as though they had eloped and something tragic had happened. Or better yet, they should make it look like Michael had kidnapped Evelyn out of anger and jealousy because he was still obsessed with her and then killed her and thenmitted suicide. It was a twisted, calcted plot, and the more Derek listened, the more his blood boiled. "What the hell..." Derek whispered under his breath, still listening to the details of how Sandra nned to lure Michael out with a phone call so they could easily get him.

    His mind raced, trying to process everything he was hearing. This wasn''t just about her wanting Evelyn out of the picture- this was a murder plot- a carefully crafted scheme to destroy both Evelyn and Michael.

    "What''s wrong?" Ethan asked, noticing Derek''s shock.

    Derek shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts, but the gravity of the situation made it impossible. He yanked out his earbud and handed it to Ethan. "Listen to this," he said, his voice tight.

    Ethan took the earbud, frowning as he yed the recording. The further into the recording he got, the more his face mirrored Derek''s shock.

    When the recording ended, Ethan pulled out the earbud slowly, his eyes wide with disbelief. "Are you kidding me?" he asked, his voice low. "She is really doing this? She''s nning to murder Evelyn...and Michael? I thought Michael was supposed to be her partner?" Derek ran a hand through his hair, still reeling from what he had heard. "I can''t believe this. She''s gonepletely off the rails. This isn''t just about some petty jealousy or ambition- this is a full-blown criminal n."

    Ethan nodded, clearly shaken. "What are you going to do?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Derek stared at the table, his mind racing. What was he going to do? He couldn''t just sit on this information. Evelyn was in danger, and so was Michael.

    It didn''t matter that Michael had betrayed him and the family.

    Michael was still family, and he would rather Michael face the punishment for his crimes than he was killed.

    He didn''t want to report to the authorities yet since this might be his opportunity to catch Sandra red-handed. But how was he going to do this without putting Evelyn''s life in danger? Could he afford to do it when Evelyn was already so scared?

    "I don''t know yet. I need to think about this," Derek admitted after a long pause, his voice low. "I need to figure this out carefully. But one thing''s for sure- I won''t let any harme to Evelyn or Michael."

    Ethan leaned back in his chair, looking as if the weight of the situation was pressing on him, too. "You have to stop her, Derek.

    There''s no question about that. But you also have to be careful since intercepting with this n doesn''t mean she won''te up with another."

    Derek nodded, his hands tightening into fists. He wasn''t sure how he was going to handle this yet, but one thing was sure: he wasn''t going to let Sandra get away with this.

    He would protect Evelyn, no matter what it took. But first, he needed a n. A solid, airtight n that wouldn''t just stop Sandra

    - but expose her.

    He drained thest of his whiskey and leaned forward, his mind already racing through his options.

    The dinner with their parents couldn''t wait until Sunday anymore.

    They had to push it forward. Maybe they could alle up with a n together.

 Chapter 158

    Evelyn stepped into the house with her bodyguard behind her. Both their arms were weighed down with shopping bags, and her face was flushed from excitement. "Thanks. You can leave the bags on the couch," Evelyn said as he shut the door behind him. Then she paused when she caught sight of her parents sitting in the living room with Derek. Surprised, she let out augh, her eyes dancing between them.

    "Mom! Dad! When did you get here?" She greeted happily as she set down her bags and went to embrace them.

    While she exchanged pleasantries with her parents, Derek stood up, hands in his pockets as he faced the bodyguard. "Thanks, Brad. Please hang around. I would like to have a word with you," Derek said to the bodyguard, who gave him a nod before leaving. "Did I mix up the date?" she asked I ked with a a grin, raising an eyebrow. thought dinner w I was supposed to be on Sunday."

    turned to her, a small smile ying on his lips. "It was my idea to have them over today. Something urgent came up, and it can''t wait till Sunday," he said, his tone light but carrying an edge of seriousness. Evelyn''s s smile faded into a frown. "Why can''t it wait? What''s going on?" Her eyes flicked toward her parents, who sat quietly, watching her.

    "And what about your parents? Does it mean they areing today as well? I haven''t even prepared anything for you all to eat. I can''t just start cooking now that you are here," she said, wondering where to start. Derek shook his head, stepping toward her. "Calm down, babe. I''ve already taken care of that. I ordered dinner, so you don''t need to cook." Evelyn crossed her arms, her frown deepening. "Why the rush?

    Why are you suddenly so eager for our families to meet? What''s happening?" rek hesitated,

    Derek

    ncing briefly at her parents before returning his gaze to her. "As I said, something came up."

    Her arms tightened across s her chest. "What t came up?"

    Derek stepped closer, his expression softening, "S?" Her voice held a note of rising anxiety. "You''re making me anxious. What''s going on? Where is Sam?" Her voice quivered slightly as her gaze darted between her parents and him.

    Sam is s upstairs, and she is fine. Calm down," Derek said gently, cing a hand on her arm. "My parents will be here soon. Why don''t you go freshen up?

    Spend some time with Samantha before they get here, okay? I''ll tell you about it when they get here," he said, and she looked into his blue eyes, trying to see if something was amiss. When he only smiled back at her, she sighed. Her parents chimed in with soft voices, asking her to to take a e a breath and rx. ire reached out and squeezed Evelyn''s hand. "Everything is s alright, sweetheart ire They had

    Evelyn sid

    walked in and had barely said, even though she wasn''t exactly sure why Derek invited them over.

    sat down before Evelyn entered.

    her shoulders slumping in defeat. She nodded, though her mind still buzzed with worry; the excitement of shopping with Rayna had disappeared.

    again, her sho

    "I''ll go freshen up and che

    and check on Sam," she muttered, turning to head upstairs. As she climbed the steps, her thoughts swirled.

    As soon as she disappeared from view, Derek turned to her parents, his expression hardening. ire and Eric exchanged a concerned nce, sensing the shift in the atmosphere. "What is going on, Derek?" Eric asked as they watched Derek pull his phone from his pocket.

    Derek took a deep breath as he sat down and gestured to them to do the same. "As I was saying before she came in, I need to talk to you both first," he said, his voice low. "Before Evelyn hears this."

    With a few taps, he yed the recording which he had received earlier. As Sandra''s voice filled the room, outlining her cold, calcted n against her own sister and Michael, the air seemed to freeze.

    ire gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, her face paling. Stiff and silent at first, Eric rose from his seat and began to pace, his brow furrowed in disbelief.

    "This... this can''t be real," he muttered under his breath, his footsteps echoing in the quiet room.

    ire couldn''t hold back any longer. She broke into sobs, her entire body shaking as she copsed on the couch. "How could Sandra do this? How could she be so hateful?" Her words came out in choked gasps between tears.

    Derek knelt beside her, his hand resting on her shoulder, though it did little to calm her. "I''m so sorry, ire, he said softly, but ire''s sobs only grew louder, her grief overwhelming her.

    "Is that really her? Is that really my daughter?" she cried, her voice desperate, searching for an answer that might make sense of the nightmare she was hearing.

    The more she learned about Sandra, the harder it was for her to believe that Sandra could harbor such a strong hatred toward Evelyn.

    Derek''s face was grim as he nodded. "Yes, it''s her. I already knew Sandra was scheming with Michael to get rid of Evelyn. Hence, I had to clone her sim as I did to Michael, but I had no idea it was this bad." His voice hardened. "I wanted you both to hear this because although I want us to decide on what to do together, I''m not going to go easy on her. I don''t care if she''s your daughter and Evelyn''s sister; she can''t get away with this." ire''s tear-streaked face turned toward him, her lips trembling.

    "No one who could do something like this is my daughter." She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, her voice suddenly firm despite the tears. "You do what you need to do. She made her choice."

    Eric stopped pacing and looked at her, his expression one of deep sadness and resignation. He moved to sit beside her, pulling her into a gentle embrace as she continued to weep. He knew that, as always, she was trying to do the right thing despite how devastated she felt as a mother.

    "I''m sorry, Eric. This is all my fault," she cried, but he shook his head.

    "It''s okay, honey,"

    "he whispered, "You don''t owe me an apology.

    Sandra is our daughter. We raised her together, and if anyone''s to me, we''re in this together."This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    ire''s sobs quieted a little as she leaned into him, but her face was still marked with heartbreak. "I thought... I thought taking her away from her father was enough," she said, her voice thick with guilt. "I didn''t know evil like that could run so deep in the blood." Derek''s brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean?"

    ire pulled away from Eric, wiping her eyes as she took a shaky breath. "Sandra''s father," she said, her voice low and trembling. "He was arrested for murder. He''s been in jail ever since."

    Derek blinked, stunned, struggling to process the revtion. He stared at ire, trying to reconcile this information with the woman before him.

    Before he could say anything more, the sound of the doorbell rang through the house. His parents had arrived.

 Chapter 159

    As Derek went to answer the door, ire wiped away thest of her tears, trying topose herself, and Eric squeezed her hand gently. Derek opened the door to see his parents standing with calm but concerned expressions. The moment they stepped inside,

    Reba frowned when her gaze fell on ire''s tear-streaked face and she noticed Eric''s arms were around her like he was consoling her. "What''s wrong?" she asked immediately, her voice soft butced with worry. "Is everything okay?"

    Derek''s father followed his wife''s gaze, and his brows pulled together as he turned to Derek. "Are Evelyn and Samantha alright?

    And why the impromptu invitation?" His tone was filled with a mix of concern and curiosity.

    orced a reassuring smile, though it barely masked the tension he felt. "Everyone is fine, Dad. I just need to talk to you both about something important." Reba nodded, but her eyes softened. "I''d like to see Samantha first. Is she around?" she asked, her motherly instinct kicking in.

    Derek forced Derek

    Derek shook his head gently. "Let''s talk first. You can see Samantha after we are done. This is important." His voice was calm, but he could see the shift in his mother''s expression. She was no fool; she knew something serious was going on. As they walked further into the living room, Derek''s parents exchanged polite greetings with ire and Eric. They could sense the heaviness in the air but didn''t press further.

    Upstairs, Evelyn had heard the doorbell and quickly made her way down. She stepped into the living room, dressed infortable but decent clothes, her hair tied back neatly. Her gaze immediately fell on Derek''s parents, and she took a deep breath.

    Derek''s face lit up when he saw her, and he moved to her side.

    "Mom, Dad, this is Evelyn," he said, his tone filled with warmth and pride. "She''s Samantha''s mother and the woman I n to marry." Reba raised an eyebrow, exchanging a look with Derek''s father.

    we already knew that" his father said with a small chuckle. "No need for the whole introduction." His eyes then softened as he turned to Evelyn. "You''re as beautiful as Derek said." He extended his hand toward her. "I''m sorry for all the trouble we''ve caused you, and I want to thank you for for raising Samantha so well." Evelyn

    smiled shyly as she shook his hand, feeling a warmth from his words. "Thank you, sir. It''s really nice to meet you finally," she said, her voice gentle but sincere. "And there''s no need to apologize. It''s all in the past now," she assured him softly. Evelyn nced at her her parents, and when she saw her mother''s sad eyes, she drowned as she went to sit close to her to find out what was wrong. "Is there a problem?" Evelyn asked, looking from her mother to Derek, her brows furrowing.

    screen.

    "Yes, Derek, what is all this about?" His father asked as they all sat down, his gaze sharpening with curiosity. Derek took out his phone, his hand steady as he tapped the the moment settling in the room like a fog. He pressed y, and Sandra''s voice filled the space, cold and calcted, as she told Michael that she wanted them to get rid of Evelyn. I quietly, the weight of

    "I want you all to hear this," Derek said The room froze. Evelyn''s parents sat stiffly, their faces paling.

    Reba''s hand I flew to her chest, and Der Derek''s k''s father leaned forward, his jaw tight. Evelyn stared at the phone, her breath catching in her throat. Although she had listened to it before, it still had the same effect on her as it did the first time she heard it. Before a Before anyone could react, Derek yed the second recording that he had received earlier of Sandra talking to the hitman to get rid of Evelyn the next day.

    Evelyn gasped, her hand flying to her mouth in horror. Reba visibly shuddered, her skin prickling with goosebumps, while Derek''s father''s fists clenched tightly on the armrests of the chair.

    "I called you all here so that we can figure out what to do together.

    I believe it''s time to take action," Derek said while Evelyn''s heart pounded wildly in her chest as her mind raced.

    "When... when was that recorded?" she stammered. "I saw Sandra earlier today at the store."

    Derek''s eyes sharpened as he turned to her. "Did you argue? Did anything happen between you two to provoke her?"

    Evelyn shook her head, still trying to process the gravity of what she had just heard. "No, we ignored each other... but she spoke to Rayna."

    4G

    Derek studied her closely, watching her as she pieced it all together. He could see the gears turning in her mind, and before he could say anything, his mother spoke up, her voice tinged with disbelief.

    "I can''t believe I''ve been such a terrible judge of character. How did I ever think this... this animal was a decent person?" Reba''s voice was quiet, almost as if speaking louder would shatter the already fragile reality. husband ced a hand on her arm, silently urging her to watch what she said since Sandra''s parents were in the room with them.

    Her

    Ignoring him, Derek''s mother let out a huff of frustration. "Michael is an absolute fool for getting involved with someone like her." She shook her head, her lips pressed tightly together. "I wish he could hear what she''s nning. I wish he''d see her for what she is." Derek''s father sat up straighter, his Sandra is up to? Show him these recordings, he suggested his tone firm.

    "What if we let Michael know what ce thoughtful as he looked at Derek. "I have a suggestion," he said, his voice cutting through the tense silence. Everyone turned to look at him, curiosity piqued.

    Derek frowned, shaking his head. "I don''t want Michael to have a chance to escape or try to cover his tracks. Besides, he could decide to kill her, too," he replied, ncing at his father.

    Derek''s attention shifted to Evelyn, his eyes searching her face.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    "Why are you so quiet, Eve Eve?" he he asked softly, trying to gauge her thoughts.

    Evelyn swallowed, her

    her gaze distant. "I''m just trying to figure out what to do with Sandra. I can''t let this continue," she said quietly, her tone cold and focused. youe up with a n?" I Derek asked, and and she nodded.

    But I think we should involve the police now." Her voice was calm but filled with a quiet determination.

    Everyone turned to look at

    her

    their rexpressions puzzled. "What do you mean? I thought we agreed that because the evidence was obtained illegally, it''s inadmissible in court," Derek asked, his brows furrowed in confusion. Evelyn exhaled slowly, ready toy it all out, but

    ire took a deep breath, "I should be the , and she wasn''t sure how she would feel if Samantha was behaving like Sandra.

    it all out, but before doing that, she turned to her parents. "Mom, I''m sorry it hase to this. But you understand I can''t just sit back and do nothing when Sandra is after my life, right?" She said this because she could guess how ire might be feeling since she was a mother herself, one apologizing, not y t you. I have no idea why Sandra is doing all of this." "She told me," Evelyn said, and then went on to tell them what Sandra had said. and ire exchanged a look, and ire sighed, "So, it''s our fault..."

    "No, it''s not. It''s not anyone''s fault. I know I wasn''t there, and I''m probably not in a position to say this, but she could have turned out better. She chose not to. So, don''t me yourself for it," she said, and Derek looked at ire. "Earlier, you were saying something about Sandra''s father," he reminded her.

    "There''s e''s nothing there. It''s exactly as she told you," Eric said, not wanting ire to talk about her past any more than was necessary.

    "So.

    Evelyn, what is your n?" Derek''s father asked, wanting them to get right to it.

    Evelyn took a deep breath and met Derek''s gaze. "The best way to catch Sandra is to let her go ahead with her n. We need to let her think she is winning so she doesn''t suspect anything. I want to be kidnapped and killed just as Sandra wants..." Derek''s eyes widened in shock. "There''s no way I''m risking your life just to catch her," he cut in, his voice rising with emotion, while everyone else looked at her like she had lost her mind.

    Evelyn reached out and took his hand, her eyes calm. "Rx, Derek. You don''t care about my life more than I do. The only way to protect Samantha and me is to let Sandra believe she''s seeding. Trust me, this is the only way to catch her red-handed." The room fell into a heavy silence as Derek stared at her, torn between fear and trust. Finally, he nodded. "Alright," he said softly. "What''s your n?"

 Chapter 160

    160

    Before Evelyn could answer Derek''s question and share her idea with them, ire stood up, her expression somber. " think I should excuse myself," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don''t want to know the details or be part of the nning. I just... I can''t. If you''ll excuse me, I''ll go spend some time with Samantha upstairs." She swallowed, a sad smile crossing her face.

    Eric sighed, knowing the whole thing was probably too much for ire to bear. He reached out and patted her hand gently. "Of course," he murmured, understanding the burden she was carrying. They all nodded and watched as ire quietly exited the room. "Please give me a minute," Evelyn said as she hurried after her mother.

    "Mom""" Evelyn called as she caught up with her at the foot of the stairs.

    ire turned, forcing a smile as she fought to hold back her tears.

    "Mom, I understand how you feel, but you know I have to do this" she said apologetically, and ire nodded.

    "Of course, I understand. I''m totally with you on whatever you choose to do. Sandra deserves it, especially after everything she''s done. But I just don''t want to be there when you make the ns"" ire said, and Evelyn nodded. "Thank you for understanding, Mom," Evelyn said, and ire nodded before taking the stairs.

    As Evelyn joined them again, Reba let out a soft sigh. "Poor woman. I can''t imagine what she must be going through." She looked around at the others, her expression filled with sympathy.

    "As a mother, it''s hard toe to terms with something like this.

    Knowing your own child is... capable of such things."

    The room fell into silence, and after a moment, Derek turned to Evelyn, his gaze filled with determination. "Go on, babe. Tell us what you''re thinking."

    Evelyn took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "As I said earlier, I want to be kidnapped and killed just as Sandra wants..."

    "But you don''t mean killed literally, right? So, how do you mean it?"

    Derek asked since that was what he wanted to hear.

    "I think we should arrange a meeting with the hitman Sandra hired.

    Once we''ve confirmed his intentions, we can involve the police.

    Both of our families have the connections- we can pull some strings and make sure they re ready to arrest him on the spot. This way, we have solid proof against him. And then we can ask him to act like he has done the job..."

    "What if he doesn''t go along with the n? What if he is loyal to her?" Eric asked, concerned for his daughter''s safety.

    Evelyn shook her head, "The conversation between them didn''t sound that way. He''s just a hitman. Besides, he will know the police are involved, so he won''t mess up," she said, and Derek sighed as he thought about what she had said.

    Although he knew her n was good and the best way they could get rid of Sandra for good, he couldn''t help being worried. One wrong move and everything could fall apart.

    "As much as I don''t like it, that could work. I will see what I can do about it. If possible, we can have the hitman arrested, and a police officer can pretend to be him and tan with Sandra. We have to move fast since tomorrow is the reunion. And we also have to be careful so as not to alert Sandra," Derek said, and his mother''s brow furrowed.

    "What about Michael? What do we do about him?" Reba said, since even though she would want Michael punished, she couldn''t watch her nephew die at the hands of a cunning person like Sandra.

    "I think that''s up to you," Evelyn said, and Derek''s father nodded.

    "I think we should invite him over tomorrow and tell him about Sandra''s n," Derek''s mother suggested.

    "But we have to be sure he won''t decide to go after Sandra himself for some petty revenge," Derek''s father said, and they all nodded.

    "True. This n is risky enough, and thest thing we want is to involve him and have him ruin everything," Evelyn''s father said, and Derek sighed deeply.

    "Mom, you can invite him over for breakfast tomorrow. I will make the necessary preparations and take every precaution to make sure he won''t interfere with our ns. Besides, I don''t think we have anything to worry about. We let him know that we are aware of his intentions and actions thus far. We''ll make it clear that we''re one step ahead and that he can either join us to take down Sandra or we can take them both down. I''m sure he would be willing to cooperate in order to protect himself and destroy Sandra," Derek said, his mind already racing with different thoughts of how to make their n work.

    "With this change in ns, does this mean our ns for the birthday are off?" Derek''s mother asked curiously, but Derek shook his head.

    "No. Since she''s nning a grand party, it''s only right we make it worth the effort," Derek said, and Evelyn''s lips twitched in amusement as she nodded in agreement.

    "Yeah. Let''s expose it all at the party. I''m sure she will get the shock of her life if she sees me there, totally alive and fine. And then the police can take her," Evelyn said, and everyone nodded in agreement with the n. There was a sense of resolve in the room as they finalized their strategy.

    Derek nced at his watch when the doorbell rang. "Dinner is here; he announced as he rose to answer the door, knowing it was dinner being delivered. When Evelyn noticed the worried frown on her father''s face and how he kept ncing in the direction ire had gone, she excused herself to go upstairs.

    She found her mother and Samantha in Samantha''s room. ire had settled into a cozy chair while Samantha enthusiastically showed her a picture book. ire''s face softened, the stress from earlier seeming to melt away as she watched her granddaughter''s innocent joy. Despite that, Evelyn could still see the sadness in her eyes and how hard she was trying to hold back her tears.

    Though she knew her stepmom didn''t have a problem with their ns or having Sandra arrested, she knew ire was definitely having a hard time epting the truth about the sort of monster her daughter was. If she were in ire''s shoes, she would have a hard time, too.

    "Mom, dinner is here," Evelyn said gently when ire noticed her presence and met her gaze. "I''ll take Samantha down to join Derek''s parents."

    ire smiled softly and gave her a nod. "Go on, sweetheart. I''ll be down in a bit after using the restroom."

    Evelyn gave her mother a reassuring look, understanding her need for a moment alone, and then guided Samantha out of the room.

    As they made their way downstairs, Samantha skipped alongside her, clutching her picture book tightly.

    At the dining table, Derek''s parents and Evelyn''s father weed Samantha warmly. She slid into her chair, chattering happily as her grandparents doted on her.

    "What''s that you have there, Samantha?" Derek''s mother asked, her eyes sparkling as she leaned closer.

    "It''s my favorite book!" Samantha dered proudly, opening it to show her grandmother a picture of a fairy princess. "Look, Grandma, this princess has a magic wand and can make wishese true!"

    Reba chuckled, reaching out to gently touch Samantha''s cheek. "Just like you, sweetheart. You''re our little princess, too."

    Derek''s father leaned over, examining the book with a gentle smile.

    "She sure is. And a very smart princess at that."

    Samantha giggled, ncing up at her grandfather. "I want to be

    smart and brave, just like Mommy."

    Evelyn''s father beamed, his face filled with pride. "You already are, dear. And you know what? Were all here to make sure you grow up with everything you need." While the other grandparents conversed with Samantha in the dining room, ire stood in front of the washbowl in the guest bathroom, and her tears flowed freely.

    She couldn''t believe that things had to go this far to bring her daughter to her senses, but what could she do? Sandra had brought it upon herself.

    Or maybe it was her fault. If she had taken extra care of her, knowing what her father was, Sandra would probably have turned out differently, or maybe not.

    Though she couldn''t do anything now, she hoped that Sandra woulde to her senses in prison so that she would be epted back after serving her sentence. ire thought as she turned on the tap and sprinkled some water on her face. After putting herself together, she stepped out of the bathroom and was a bit surprised to see Evelyn standing outside the door.

    Evelyn decided toefort ire while the others were busy chatting with Samantha.This text is property of N?/velD/rama.Org.

    "I''m so sorry all of this is happening," Evelyn said softly, and ire shook her head.

    "I''ve told you already, Evie. You don''t have to be, Evie. None of this is your fault. And I know you tried to avoid all this. I just wish Sandra didn''t have to go this far," ire said as tears welled up in her eyes again, and Evelyn embraced her. After a while, ire pulled away, deciding not to think about the situation anymore since she didn''t want Evelyn to start feeling bad.

    "We should join the others now. I don''t want Reba stealing my spot in Samantha''s heart," ire joked as she walked ahead of Evelyn out of the room.

    As Evelyn followed behind, she couldn''t help but feel bad for ire. As much as she would have loved for Sandra to turn a new leaf so that they could all return to being one big family, she knew there was no way that would happen. Even if Sandra truly did change, she was never going to truly forgive her and let her guard down. This was the only way

    As they shared dinner, Samantha basked in the love and warmth surrounding her. Each of her grandparents took turns asking her questions, listening to her stories, andughing at her little jokes.

    They poured their affection into each smile, each soft touch, and each word, making Samantha feel cherished beyond measure.

    And for a brief moment, Evelyn found herself forgetting about Sandra and everything else. In that moment, they were just a family united by love and hope.

 Chapter 161

    Despite the fact that his stomach was a tight knot of anticipation and anxiety, Derek was a picture of calm andposure as he sat with his parents in their living room the following day.

    He nced at the clock, counting down the minutes until Michael would arrive. They were waiting for him so they could tell him about Sandra''s n, as they had agreed the previous evening.

    As Derek sat there, his thoughts raced with ns for his meeting with Sandras hitman. Since they had cloned her SIM, getting his number had been easy, and they had sent a text to him using the SIM and asked to meet at a discreet location by noon.

    He needed to finish up with Michael quickly so he could meet the hitman at noon since it was almost 10 a.m. already.

    His thoughts were interrupted, and he exchanged a nce with both his parents when they received an alert from the monitor at the gate that a car was entering the premises.

    ''This is it, Derek thought as he readied his mind to face Michael.

    Neither of them made any move to get the door since Michael was family and had unrestricted ess to the house. But that was going to change in a couple of minutes.

    Outside the house, as Michael parked his car, his gaze fell on Derek''s car, and he couldn''t help wondering why Derek was also there that morning.

    Although Derek had every right to be there, he couldn''t shake off the feeling that Derek''s presence had something to do with the reason his aunt had asked him to join them for breakfast.

    Perhaps they wanted to tell him about Derek''s n to propose to Sandra, he thought, and then smiled with approval. But then, his smile faltered when he recalled Sandra''s suggestion of getting rid of Evelyn before then.

    Could he still let Derek marry Sandra, or should he probably do something and stop it all? Sandra had be too ambitious and vicious for his liking, and he wasn''t sure he could trust her to uphold her end of the deal after marriage to Derek.

    He sighed deeply and shoved the thoughts aside, deciding to think about it more deeplyter. He stered a smile on his face as he opened the door and walked into the house.

    He smiled broadly when he saw them all in the living room, and he greeted Derek''s parents politely before turning to Derek

    "Hey, man. What''s up?" he greeted, but neither Derek nor his parents responded to the greeting.

    There was no reason for them to put up a show anymore when they had invited him over to let him know that they knew all he was up to.

    "Sit down, Michael," Derek''s mother said in an authoritative tone that took Michael aback.

    His aunt and uncle were always happy to see him, and they never spoke with him in such a tone. What could be wrong, he mused as he took the seat she gestured at.

    For some reason, he felt like he was sitting on a hot seat, and all three pairs of eyes settled on him and followed his movement.

    "Is there a problem, aunt? Did I do something wrong?" He asked, looking from Derek to his aunt since he knew that she favored him like a son.

    "Why would you ask that? Did you do something wrong?" Derek''s father asked, and Michaelughed awkwardly and shook his head.

    "No, I didn''t. It''s just that no one is smiling. The atmosphere here seems tense. Did something happen?" Michael asked, and Reba exchanged a nce with her husband and then Derek.

    When they both gave her a nod, she leaned forward in her seat,

    "How well do you know Sandra?" she asked, and Michael''s heart skipped a beat at the mention of Sandra''s name.

    He wondered why his aunt was suddenly asking him about how well he knew Sandra. Did Sandra probably do or say something?

    Or was his aunt asking because of the proposal n? Or was it in any way rted to the hotel incident? Did somebody see Sandra going in or leaving his house? Michaels mind raced with questions.

    Swallowing past the lump in his throat, he cleared his throat.

    "We''ve been friends for years. So, I guess I know her well enough," he said, trying hard to hide his anxiety. Derek leaned in his expression grave. "Really? Are you sure about that?" he asked, holding Michael''s gaze.

    Why was Derek asking if he was sure? What was going on?

    Unease washed over him, but he nodded. Just as he opened his mouth to respond, Derek''s father spoke before he could say anything more.

    "Michael, there''s something we want you to listen to since you''re so sure you know Sandra so well," he said, and Michael''s heart dropped.

    Did Evelyn make another recording of Sandra? Was it something very incriminating that would get him in trouble?

    "What is it? Did Sandra do something wrong?" Michael''s stomach churned as he braced himself for whatever they wanted him to listen to. Though he didn''t know what it was, he was certain it wouldn''t be good.

    If it were, they wouldn''t have started by asking him how well he knew Sandra. He watched anxiously as Derek pulled out a phone from his pocket and tapped on the screen.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    The room fell silent as the recording of Sandra ordering the hitmen to get rid of him and Evelyn yed.

    Michael''s heart dropped into his stomach, a cold rush of fear flooding his veins as he listened. The world around him blurred, and he struggled to keep his expression neutral. Sandra wanted to get rid of him, too? Just how evil could she be?

    He mused before ncing at Derek, "What''s going on? Is that Sandra''s voice? Why does she want to get rid of me? Why would she want to hurt her sister? How did you even get that?" Michael asked, his head spinning as he struggled to make sense of what he had just heard. "Really, Mike? You don''t know why she wants to kill you?" Derek''s mother asked, and Michael nced at her and then at her husband before returning his gaze to Derek.

    Something about the way they were all staring at him made him feel like they had figured everything out already. Michael felt the walls closing in on him as beads of sweat formed on his forehead and back despite the cool temperature of the room. How did they get the recording of the conversation? Was it through the Hitman''s phone? Or was it through Sandra''s phone? If it was through Sandra''s phone, when did they start monitoring her?

    And why? Did that mean they probably had a recording of his conversations with her?

    These questions swirled in his head as he tried to look for a perfect excuse for Sandra to possibly want to kill him.

    "We don''t have all day, Mike, Derek snapped impatiently.

    Michael took a deep breath, deciding that this was his chance to put everything on Sandra. "I''m sorry for keeping this from you and not telling you sooner. I swear I was going to tell you, but I didn''t know how to go about it. Sandra tried to seduce me..." "For God''s sake, Michael! Cut the act already!" Derek''s voice erupted, anger spilling over. "We know everything!"

 Chapter 162

    The tension in the room was almost tangible, the air thick with usation and unease. Michael''s heart thudded heavily in his

    chest; each beat reminded him that he needed to maintain hisposure and hold onto hisst shreds of control. But doubt wed at his mind. He couldn''t help but wonder how much they really knew, and the uncertainty gnawed at him. Was it possible that they knew everything? What exactly was Derek referring to as everything? Did Evelyn tell him about her suspicions regarding him and Sandra? Did she tell them about Sandra drugging her? Michael mused, wondering how to save himself from the sinking ship of his ambition. Desperately, he adopted a facade of confusion, forcing his face into a mask of disbelief. "What are you talking about?" he managed, his voiceced with incredulity, though there was a tremor he couldn''t entirely suppress.

    Derek ignored the question because he didn''t have the desire or the time to waste entertaining such a foolish question. Unmoved by Michael''s feigned ignorance, Derek picked up his phone and scrolled through it until he found the footage of Michael in his office. He then picked up the television controller and focused on connecting the phone to the television without so much as a nce in Michael''s direction.

    Derek decided to show that particr video to Michael since it would be the perfect response that Michael needed to know that they were on to him. He didn''t have the time to go back and forth with words.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    As Derek busied himself with the setup, Michael turned to Reba, his eyes searching her face, hoping for some sign of leniency, some softening in her gaze that would show he wasn''t entirely doomed.

    "Aunt... what

    How

    what

    "Shut your mouth, Michael!" Her voice, cold and sharp., sliced through his words. Rising from her seat, Reba''s re burned into him with a fury he had never seen before, her chest heaving as though she were barely able to contain her rage. dare you call me your aunt? How dare you look me in the eye and lie to me so brazenly for so long?" she demanded, her voice breaking with betrayal. "I treated you like my own son. I trusted you, believed in you- and this is how you repay me?" Reba yelled, ignoring her husband, who was trying to calm her down. Seeing his aunt''s outburst and hearing the venom in her words drained the color from Michael''s face. Panic wed at his chest, and he shifted ufortably, resisting the urge to bolt.

    He tried to make sense of it all, his mind scrambling. How much could they know to make her so upset? Did they know about his rtionship with Sandra? Or did they find out he was behind the scandal of Derek''s adoption? His breathing grew shallow as he realized his lies might be unraveling right before him. Then, as if to answer his silent question, the television screen flickered to life. Michael felt his heart plummet as he watched himself on the screen, moving about Derek''s office, reaching under the table, and removing the bug he had nted there. The horror dawned slowly like i like ice creeping through his veins. "This i is a a misunderstanding.." he

    I

    he stammered, but his words were cut off by a stinging p to his cheek, delivered with all the force of Reba''s contempt.

    "One more lie, a business just so that you can set Evelyn up? How could you be so callous?" Her voice trembled, the pain in her words evident.

    I swear, Michael- I will forget you''re my nephew and have you arrested right here, right now." Her voice was a low growl, her eyes aze with a mix of anger and disappointment. "How dare you exploit our family for your twisted games? How dare you expose my family "Aunt, it''s not what you think," he murmured, clutching his throbbing cheek, his voice faltering. He was trapped, struggling for words, any words that might salvage his dignity¡ªor his freedom. "Not what I think?" she repeated, her voice rising in pitch as she pped his other cheek. "What is not what I think? Is it the fact that you leaked our family''s private matters to the public, or the fact that you''ve been in a rtionship with Sandra for all these years yet had the guts to convince me that she would be a good fit for Derek, just so you both could do to Derek as you nned to do to Evelyn?" Her voice cracked with rage as she looked him over with pure disgust while Derek and his father stood aside and watched her. Michael''s mind spun, struggling to process everything she said. knew everything. how? How did t

    I

    How know what he had do to Evelyn?

    His gaze flicked to Derek. When did he nt the camera in his office? Did that mean the conversation between Sandra and the hitman was from Sandra''s phone? Did they bug his phone, too?

    How long had Derek been suspicious? Had he known about his rtionship with Sandra from the beginning. Had Derek been ying along this whole time and leading Sandra on when he knew the truth? Had he only been waiting for the right time to strike? A wave of nausea rolled through him as he realized how much of his ny exposed.

    Derek''s voice cut through his thoughts. "Are you going to deny all of that, too, Michael?" His tone wasced with barely controlled fury, as though he were daring Michael to lie again so that he''d have an excuse to unleash the full extent of his rage.

    Michael''s I''s heart raced as he stood there with his head drooped in shame. He couldn''t bear to look at any of them.

    "We trusted you with everything, Michael" Derek''s father said, his voice quieter but no less condemning. "We treated you like family, gave you opportunities, put faith in you. And you betrayed us." His gaze was cold, contrasting the warmth Michael once found in his uncle''s eyes. "And to think you even went as far as to embezzle money from thepany.. A A chill washed hed

    over Michael, and his mouth dropped open. They knew that, too. He could barely keep himself upright, the guilt, the shame- everything-bubbling up inside him. Without another thought, he fell to his knees. Derek''s father shook his head, his lips curled Whispered, his voice barely audible, his head bowed.

    "I didn''t mean

    of

    he

    in disgust. "Sorry?

    Are you sorry for trying to manipte my wife into forcing Derek to marry your mistress? Or is it for lying against Evelyn all these years? Which part, exactly, are you sorry for, Michael?"

    "Perhaps he''s sorry for nning to impregnate Sandra and make me father his child. Or maybe he''s sorry for stealing from thepany. I''m sure he didn''t mean it. Or he''s just sorry for getting caught. Which is it, Michael?" Derek asked harshly. Michael opened his mouth to answer, but the words wouldn''te. His mind was nk, drowning in the weight of his own betrayal. Every crime and misdeed hung in the room as though the walls themselves had be witnesses to his disgrace. "I''m sorry," he whispered as he looked up, meeting Reba''s steely gaze, a silent plea for forgiveness in his eyes. But her expression made it clear that forgiveness was beyond reach.

    "Your apologies mean nothing now," Derek''s father dered, his tone final, unyielding. "The only reason you''re here is because we found out Sandra ns to dispose of you. If Evelyn wasn''t also her target and it was up to me, I''d let Sandra have her way. Frankly, someone like you deserves to be stabbed in the back this way.

    You''re only lucky your aunt had a say."

    "I know nothing I say would make up for everything I have done.

    I''m sorry, aunt. I don''t know what came over me. I''m sorry, Uncle.

    Please forgive me. Derek, I''m sorry," Michael said, his face falling to the ground

    "Greed and foolishness is what came over you," Reba sneered.

    "Make no mistake, Michael, you''re going to pay for your crimes. I don''t care that you''re my wife''s nephew. You stole from thepany, and you will be made an example of," Derek''s father said, and Derek nodded in agreement.

    "We called you here to give you a chance to make sure you don''t go down alone. Are you willing to y along so we can get that little Devil put away before she hurts Evelyn, or would you rather go to jail alone?" Derek asked in a harsh tone. "Why do you care about Evelyn? She has someone else.."

    "That is not your concern," Derek said coldly.

    As much as Derek was tempted to tell Michael now that he was the one who had been with Evelyn that night six years ago and that he was the father of Evelyn''s child, he didn''t trust Michael enough to release such information. He wasn''t going to take any risk with Samantha. amantha. giving you one chance, Michael," he repeated, his eyes zing. "One chance to fix the problem your greed has caused us." Although stay after had killing her wasn''t worth it.

    He looked at his aunt, wanting to ask if they would forgive him and not get him arrested if he yed along to help them capture Sandra, but one look at her face and he could tell that she would most likely kill him with her bare hands if he dared to voice that out. Michael knew he had little choice, yet a n began to form in his mind- a way to buy time and escape. He knew that no matter what he said or did, they were never going to forgive him. He was going to lose his job, his ce in the family, and even his freedom. Michael decided that the best thing to do would be to pretend to y along and then run away before they could arrest him.

    But before he could finish thinking about it, Derek leaned in close as though he could read his mind. "Don''t even think about running or going after Sandra yourself. I will be watching. And if you mess this up, there won''t be a second chance. I will kill you myself if I have to. Don''t test me." Michael swallowed hard, feeling the walls close in on him. He nodded slowly, his voice barely above a whisper. "I''ll do whatever you want me to do. Anything," he said, the words hollow, each one a nail in the coffin of his ambition.

 Chapter 163

    As Derek drove away from his parent''s house and headed for the venue where he was to meet with the hitman, his mind raced with the details of his conversation with Michael. Derek had been curious to know how Michael could have chosen to cheat on Evelyn with someone like Sandra, but Michael had shocked them all with his confession.

    "I knew Sandra before Evelyn. I met her during our first year in school. I fell in love with her and wanted her to be my girlfriend," Michael had exined.

    "So, how did you end up with Evelyn?" Reba had asked with a frown.

    "Sandra said I didn''t seem ambitious enough. She said she wanted an ambitious man. Someone who desperately wanted to seed like she did. I told her I was ambitious, and she asked me to prove it by seducing her half-sister, Evelyn," Michael had said, detailing how Sandra had manipted him from the beginning and guiding him to marry Evelyn for her inheritance. "And when it didn''t work, you both decided to aim higher and go after Derek," Derek''s father had said with disgust.

    Every detail reyed in Derek''s head, almost suffocating in its cruelty. The whole idea of it was appalling.

    Derek sighed as he thought of Evelyn. How devastated would she be if she found out her entire rtionship with Michael had been orchestrated by Sandra''s jealousy and greed?

    How hurt would she be when she realized that the rtionship had been built entirely on deception and Michael had never once loved her? It had not been a matter of being cheated on. She had simply been lucky to catch them in the act when she did.

    The thought made Derek''s heart clench. He exhaled sharply, trying to shake off the idea, his focus returning to the road ahead.

    Just as his mind began to clear, his phone rang, jolting him from his reverie. He nced at the screen: it was Evelyn.

    "Hey," he answered, trying to sound calm, but his voice held a hint of the tension he was feeling.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "What''s going on? Are you still with Michael, or..?" Her voice was soft.

    "No. I just left them now. I''m on my way to meet with Sandra''s man," he replied, maintaining a steady tone.

    "Why didn''t you call to tell me? How did it go with Michael? Did he agree?" Evelyn asked, and Derek could hear the unmistakable anxiety behind her voice.

    "I''m sorry. I guess I was lost in my thoughts about the meeting ahead, and calling you sort of skipped my mind. Yes, it went smoothly. Michael agreed to y along." Derek''s eyes flickered over the road as he spoke, still mentally preparing for the meeting ahead. Evelyn let out a small sigh of relief, and he could almost picture her nodding, relief easing some of her worry. "Thank goodness.

    I''ve been on edge all day. I couldn''t focus on anything else... I haven''t even eaten."

    "Babe, you should go and get something to eat, he chided gently.

    "You need to take better care of yourself. I''ll handle this."

    "I know," she murmured. "But I can''t bring myself to stay still or focus on anything else. I''m anxious, and I can''t stomach anything.

    Maybe I''ll feel better after tonight," she said, and Derek sighed, sensing her restlessness.

    He understood that her anxiety could not be helped. It wasn''t every day that one found out their stepsister was plotting their death.

    "You need a distraction. What are you up to? Want to go hang out with Rayna?" He asked and Evelyn nced at Samantha, who was busy drawing and painting on her table.

    ?"

    "I don''t want to go out right now. I''m home alone with Sam.

    Although Rayna called to say she wasing over to spend the day with us, so I''m waiting for her."

    Derek smiled faintly, "As long as she ising over, that''s good enough. How is Maya? I guess she has left for the hospital?"

    "Yes. She finally left for the hospital a short while ago after much prodding, Evelyn replied. There was a note of relief in her voice, but it wasced with exhaustion. "This is all so overwhelming, Derek. I can''t wait for it to be over." Derek''s heart ached for her. "I understand. Look, why don''t I order something for you to eat? It''ll save you the trouble of looking around the house. Is there anything you''d like to eat?"

    "No, no Evelyn replied, a bit more alert now. "Il find something here. It''s okay."

    A soft chime sounded in the background on Evelyn''s end, and Derek heard her say, "Rayna''s here. I should go. But let me know how things go with the hitman, okay? And when you get home, you can give me all the details."

    "Of course. Don''t worry about a thing," Derek assured her. With that, they said their goodbyes and Evelyn''s line clicked off.

    Just as Derek was about to focus on the road once again, his phone started ringing, and he scowled when he saw that it was Sandra.

    He could guess that she was calling to remind him of the reunionter in the day. Taking a deep breath, he received the call. "Hello, Derek!" She greeted pleasantly.

    Hearing his name from the same lips that had so casually ordered the murder of two people who were close to her sent a chill down Derek''s spine.

    "Hey! How are you doing?" Derek asked, trying his best to sound normal.

    "I''m alright. You know what today is, right? I hope you haven''t forgotten that you''re apanying me to my ss reunion?" She asked hopefully. "How can I forget? You''ve made it clear that tonight is very important to you, so I have to be there," Derek said, and Sandra smiled.

    "Have you picked out an outfit yet? I''m wearing a red dress," she said, and Derek raised a brow, wondering why she was telling him that.

    "I''m sure I will figure out what to wear when it is time," he said, and Sandra rolled her eyes.

    "I''m giving you a clue already. You should wear something with a touch of red to make us look like a real couple. You know, like a united front," she said, and Derek shook his head. "Alright. If this what you want," he said, and she giggled happily.

    "Thanks, baby. I can''t wait to see you tonight. Don''t forget to pick me up, okay? I''ll be ready by seven," she said, and Derek scowled at her reference to him as baby.

    "Sure. See you then""" he said before hanging up.

    As Derek got closer to his meeting point with the hitman, he dialed the number of one of the detectives they had stationed around the venue to make sure he was there and ready to apprehend the hitman. Once he confirmed that everything was in ce, he took a deep breath and silently prayed that everything would go as nned and no one would get hurt.

 Chapter 164

    164

    After hanging up her call with Derek, Evelyn felt a flood of relief and anticipation as she rushed to open the door. The moment Rayna walked in and shut the door behind her, Evelyn threw her arms around her in a warm, tight hug. "Thanks foring," she said, her voice full of gratitude.

    Rayna tilted her head back, raising an eyebrow with a yful smile. "What''s with all the excitement, Evie? We just saw each other yesterday. Why are you acting like we haven''t seen in years?"

    Evelyn let out an embarrassedugh, brushing a stray hair behind her ear. "Well, I''ve been anxious all morning, and I barely sleptst night. I''m just happy to see you. Your presence would keep me distracted," she said, and Rayna raised a brow.. Raynas yful smile softened into a look of concern. "Distracted from what, exactly? What''s going on? Is it something with Sandra? Did she attempt something?" she asked, her voice growing serious.

    Evelyn took a deep breath, ncing around. "Yes, actually. Bute in, let''s sit down; this isn''t something we can discuss while standing by the door," she said, leading Rayna into the cozy living room.

    As they settled onto the couch, Rayna looked around, frowning slightly. "The house is so quiet. Where is everyone? Is Derek out with Sam?"

    Evelyn shook her head, gesturing toward the staircase. "Sam is upstairs keeping busy with her drawing. Maya stepped out for a bit."

    Rayna opened her handbag, pulled out a packet of cookies, and handed it to Evelyn. "This is for Sam."

    Evelyn smiled, shaking her head. "You spoil her too much with these sweet treats. I swear she has had more sugar since she met you than she has all her life."

    Raynaughed, a twinkle in her eyes. "What else can you expect from an aunt who bakes? Now, enough with the small talk. Tell me what''s happening. What''s really going on, Evelyn?"

    Taking another steadying breath, Evelyn began. "So, after our shopping trip yesterday, I came home to see my parents in the house with Derek. He invited them and his parents..."

    "Weren''t you all supposed to meet on Sunday? Don''t tell me Derek proposedst night," Rayna said, narrowing her eyes as her gaze fell on Evelyn''s finger.

    "No. Of course not. I''m sure he wouldn''t do that without you in the picture," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded with approval.

    "I just wanted to be sure you know it, and he knows it too. If he had proposed, I would have seized the ring, and he would have done it all again in front of me," Rayna said with a grin, and Evelynughed, feeling thankful for Rayna''s good sense of humor, which she infused into everything. "So, as I was saying, Derek invited both our parents over..."

    Rayna rolled her eyes, pretending to yawn. "Can you cut to the chase, Evie?"

    Evelyn took a shaky breath before finally blurting it out. "Sandra has ns... to kill Michael and me tonight."

    Rayna''s expression shifted instantly, her mouth hanging open in shock. "What? Sandra? Tonight? Are you serious?" She asked, shock freezing her in ce.

    Evelyn nodded. She poured out every detail of the n, the danger Sandra posed, Derek''s efforts to thwart her, and how they had decided to involve Michael in their ns. When she was done, Rayna just sat there silently, shaking her head in disbelief and anger as she processed every detail.

    "This is both sad and annoying," Rayna muttered, anger flickering in her eyes. "I''m sad for your stepmom. That beautiful woman doesn''t deserve an evil daughter like Sandra. How could Sandra even think of doing this to you? You are her sister, for crying out loud! And now you have to hide for weeks?"

    Evelyn nodded slowly. "Yeah. Just until Derek''s mother''s birthday. I hope you will visit me often, though, she added with a small, hopeful smile.

    Rayna reached out and squeezed Evelyn''s hand. "Of course I will.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    You should know you don''t even need to ask," Rayna said firmly. "I can do your grocery shopping, run errands... whatever you need me to do, just say the word." Evelyn''s lips curved into a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Ray.

    But that won''t be necessary. I will be getting domestic staff to help out around the house by Monday, so that should make things easier."

    Afortable silence fell between them as they absorbed the situation''s weight. After a moment, Evelyn looked at Rayna with a soft expression. "Enough about my troubles. How are you? And... how''s the situation with Ethan today?"

    Rayna''s face fell slightly, her expression turning resigned. "Well, I''ve been thinking about it sincest night, and I''ve decided to let go of that mess. No doubt, I made a mistake by reacting the way I did that night at the club. But I know my worth, Evie. I don''t think I want to be with a man who holds grudges that way or judges me and treats me so harshly for a single moment''s mistake. It doesn''t matter what I think we shared or thought we could have. It''s not worth it if he''s such a petty person. I want me a nice gentleman who treats me with respect and kindness no matter how upset he is.

    Evelyn nodded, a look of understanding in her eyes. "I thought about that too. I didn''t want to say anything before, but I think you''re making the right choice. You don''t deserve to be treated this way. You deserve someone who values you."

    Rayna gave a small, determined nod. "Exactly. I''ve deleted his number, our chats, even his emails. I''m done. Maybe I will consider a dating site after some time, but only when I''m ready. I don''t want toe off as desperate anymore than I have already," Rayna said, and Evelyn smiled as she reached out, covering Rayna''s hand with hers and a gentle warmth in her eyes. "You''re an incredible person, Ray. You deserve only the best, and I know you will find it."

    Rayna smiled, squeezing Evelyn''s hand back. "Thanks, Evie. I really hope so."

    A flicker ofughter brightened Rayna''s eyes. "Now, enough with all the unpleasant talk. Let''s focus on distracting you and making youugh."

 Chapter 165

    Maya sat at the reception area and waited to be led in to see the gynecologist.

    She had initially resisted Evelyn''s suggestion to visit a doctor, but Evelyn''s gentle insistence and concern finally won her over. Soon, a nurse appeared and escorted Maya down a hallway. "Dr.

    Garwood will see you now," the nurse said with a warm smile, pushing open the door to the office.

    Maya stepped inside, and her eyes widened in surprise when the doctor, who was busy flipping through a file, lifted his head. Liam, who had lifted his head at the sound of the door, froze when he saw Maya, looking clearly as surprised as he was. "Maya?" he asked, blinking in astonishment. Maya''s s surprise quickly transformed rmed into a radiant smile. "Liam! What...

    what are you doing here?" Sheughed softly.

    Liam shook off his initial surprise and managed a small smile. "Please, sit sit down," he said, motioning toward the chair

    chair across from him.

    He nced at the nurse and gestured for her I for her to leave, and she exited with a polite nod. Once they were alone, he turned back to Maya, still looking slightly bewildered. "So, what brings you to my office?"

    Settling into the chair, Maya smiled softly, "I have been having terrible crampstely, and Evelyn wouldn''t let me hear the end of it until I agreed to get checked out."

    Liam leaned back, a hint of relief crossing his face. "Evelyn insisted, huh?" he said with a soft chuckle.

    "Yeah. Is she aware that you''re in Ludus?" udus?" Maya asked, and Liar and Liam hesitated, ncing at his hands before looking back at her.

    "No, she doesn''t, and I''d rather it t remains so. Can I I trust t you I not t to say anything to her?" He asked, looking at her with beseeching eyes.

    Maya frowned, her expression turning serious. "Is... everything okay?" Her voice held a note of genuine concern. She knew how close he was to Evelyn, so she couldn''t understand why he was keeping such a secret from her. She had found it strange that he had left thest time without having lunch with them as nned, and he hadn''t even waited to say goodbye to her before leaving.

    Liam sighed and rubbed the back of his neck, looking thoughtful.

    "It''splicated," he

    ," he admitted. "But maybe we can talk about that after we finish your check-up. Are you free for lunch after this?" Maya''s face brightened at the suggestion. "Yes, I am," she agreed, a trace of warmth in her smile. "I don''t really have any friends here, so it''d be great to spend some time with someone I know apart from Evelyn and Sam." softer this time. "At least you have them. I have no one here. I would appreciate thepany.

    Liam''s smile retalked around his desk, putting on a pair of gloves and gesturing to an examination bed behind a curtain.

    let''s

    Liam got up and walke Maya nodded, trying to shake out his uses s, andy exin everything as we go. The cramp might not mean anything." off her nerves as she down.

    Checked

    Just

    Although she was feeling a bit self-conscious, she focused on the ceiling, trying to keep her thoughts calm as Liam began the scan. Liam''s movements were calm and professional. After a few After he was

    "What is it. /one, he returned to his seat behind the desk quiet moments, Liam''s face grew serious, his eyes fixed on the monitor beside him. His silence made Maya''s heart beat faster, and a knot of worry formed in her stomach.

    and looked over the scan result while Maya returned to her seat. ''she asked after some time, her voice barely more than a whisper.

    Finally, Liam took a deep breath as he turned to her, his gaze soft and sympathetic. "Maya..... you have an ovarian cyst," he said gently, and Maya felt the air leave her lungs. The words seemed to echo in the small room, filling the silence.

    a''s face drained of color, her hands falling to her abdomen as she absorbed what hed just said.

    Maya''s

    "Ovarian Cyst?" She repeated.

    ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on the ovary. Don''t worry; most ovarian cysts are non-cancerous and resolve on their own," he said, hoping that wouldfort her.

    is

    "So, it''s not serious?" She asked hopefully.

    Liam

    Liam hesitated for a moment, "It''s too early to tell. We''ll schedule follow-up ultrasounds to monitor the cyst''s size and growth. If symptoms persist or worsen, we''ll discuss treatment options. In the meantime, keep track of your symptoms and report any changes." Maya forced a small smile, but her hands were trembling.

    "Treatment options," she repeated, the weight of it sinking in.

    "Maya, I know it sounds frightening, but trust me, you''ll be fine. I''ll be here to guide you through every part of it," he said, and she let out a shaky breath, trying to steady herself.

    "Thank you, Liam. .I... I just

    I didn''t expect this," she said with a forced smile. "Please, don''t tell Evelyn about this." Liam''s brow furrowed, surprised. "Why would you want to keep this from Evelyn?"

    "She has enough on her te as it is. Evelyn''s dealing with a lot. I don''t want to add to her worries."

    He watched her carefully, seeing the worry in her eyes, and then nodded slowly, giving her a warm smile. "I understand. I''ll keep this between us. You also have to promise not to tell her you saw me." She nodded, "Sure."

    "I guess we can''t have lunch now. I''m sure you need some time to yourself," he said, and a faint smile broke through the cloud of worry on her face.

    "Yeah. Maybe another time. Thank you, Liam." She stood, ready to leave, relief mixed with a heaviness she couldn''t shake.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    As she turned to leave, Liam''s voice stopped her. "Maya... let''s keep in touch, alright? If you need someone to talk to or want to hang out, you can call me," he said, holding his card out to her. She turned, looking back at him with gratitude. "Sure. I''d like that," she said as she took the card from him.

 Chapter 166

    Derek arrived at the secluded parking lot and parked his car. The air around him was thick with anticipation as his gaze swept over

    the empty rows of vehicles. He took a steadying breath and adjusted his rearview mirror to catch any movement.

    He didn''t have to wait long. Within minutes, there was a sharp rap on his car window. Derek unlocked the passenger door, and the hitman, a young man in histe twenties, slid into the seat beside him, ncing around. Derek looked up to see the hitman''s cold and annoyed face. He had clearly been expecting to see Sandra and not him.

    "Who the hell are you?" he asked, his tone low and threatening. He reached for the door handle, but Derek quickly activated the automatic lock.

    The hitman''s eyes narrowed, his hand twitching toward his jacket pocket, where Derek guessed a gun was concealed.

    "Rx" Derek said, keeping his voice calm. "You''re not going anywhere just yet."

    The hitman smirked, his fingers edging closer to the gun''s grip.

    "Big mistake, friend," he murmured, fingers finally closing around the weapon.

    Derek let out a resigned sigh and clicked the lock again, letting him go. "Fine," he said simply, watching as the hitman pushed open the door.

    The hitman stepped out, but before he could take a step further, two detectives materialized from behind parked cars, guns drawn.

    They moved in swiftly, disarming him with practiced ease.

    Shock reced the hitman''s initial confidence as the detectives ordered him back into Derek''s car. His eyes darted around, and he slumped into the seat, realizing he was outnumbered and outmaneuvered.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Both detectives slid into the backseat of the car, and Derek automatically locked the doors again.

    "Big mistake, friend. I was going to do this without the detectives""" Derek muttered as he pulled out his phone and hit y on the recording he''d saved from his conversation with Sandra. Her voice filled the car, casually outlining the hit she wanted on Evelyn and Michael. The hitman''s eyes widened slightly as the realization sank in. "Now," Derek said, his voice steely, "there''s no question you''re going to jail. But I want answers. Who else knows about this?

    Have you made arrangements with anyone else to carry out the job?"

    The hitman''s mouth twisted into a sneer, but his voice was defiant.

    "I don''t know what you''re talking about. And you''re arresting me anyway, so why should I talk?"

    Derek''s eyes shed with quiet menace. "You should talk because you don''t know me," he said slowly, leaning closer. "You don''t know what I''m capable of."

    The hitman''s face faltered, but he kept his mouth shut. Derek

    continued, his tone sharp as ice. "If even a single hair on Evelyn''s head is hurt, I''ll make sure your mother finds out about what you do, and your daughter... you should think about her."

    The hitman''sposure crumbled, his body tensing as he nced at Derek in horror. Derek held his gaze, a deadly calm in his eyes.

    "I know more about you than you can imagine. Did you think I woulde to someone like you without doing my homework?

    I''ve pulled a lot of strings to be here, so you should make it worth it," Derek continued. "Now, answer my question. Have you arranged for anyone else to go after Evelyn?"

    A beat passed before the hitman swallowed, his voice barely a whisper. "I... I have a crew. We were going to do it together."

    "Good," Derek replied coolly. "Now, you''re going to call them off.

    And you''re going to give the detectives their locations so they can take care of them."

    The hitman''s face twisted in defiance. "I can''t snitch on my own men."

    Derek''s gaze darkened. "How much do you love your mother and daughter?" His words were low, and there was no hint of mercy in them.

    The hitman hesitated, visibly torn. Derek leaned back, letting him stew in the silence for a few moments. "Here''s my offer," Derek said. "Cooperate, and I''ll see to it that your daughter''s medical bills are covered while you''re locked away. All her needs, including your mother''s needs, will be met- everything. But only if you agree to help us." At that, the hitman closed his eyes, his resolve breaking. When he finally spoke, his voice was resigned. "Alright. I''ll do it."

    Derek nodded to the detectives, who quickly began coordinating the n, with the hitman reluctantly leading the way.

    It took a while for them to finish, and after they were done nning everything, Derek returned home in the evening.

    Evelyn greeted him at the door, her expression a mixture of worry and relief. "You''re finally back. You took so long," she said softly, stepping aside to let him in.

    "Yeah. It''s over for now," he replied, taking her hand as they moved further into the house. The warmth of her touch rxed him after the tense day.

    "Rayna has left?" Derek asked, looking around the living room as he sat down.

    "Yeah. She left a short while ago to get ready for the reunion. I''ve also dropped Samantha off at Sara''s ce for her sleepover with E since we will both be out, and Maya still needs to get some rest, Evelyn said, and Derek nodded. "Is Maya back from the hospital? What did she say?" Derek asked with concern.

    "We couldn''t talk earlier because Rayna was here. After Rayna left, I went in to check on her, but she was taking a nap," Evelyn exined as she went to get him a ss of water.

    She returned with it, and after taking a long drink, Derek let out a sigh as the tension eased from his shoulders.

    "So, how did it go?" She asked, and he looked into her face, noticing the worry still lingering in her eyes.

    "The meeting went well. All we need now is to get you and Michael to the final location. Someone will be there to handle the makeup

    and make sure it looks convincing. If it weren''t for your idea to arrest her at my mother''s birthday celebration, I would''ve had her arrested tonight. But we''ll give her a show- let her believe she''s won."

    She gave him a small, grateful smile, her eyes sparkling with determination. "I know. But I want her to enjoy her moment of victory. I want to see if she will truly be happy once she believes I''m out of the picture. Maybe she will have regrets."

    Derek shook his head, "I don''t believe she will. But we will find out soon enough. I need to get some rest before I get ready to go pick her up for the reunion. She wants me to wear a touch of red, so we look like a couple," Derek said, and Evelynughed. "Do you want me to wear a touch of red for you?" She asked, and Derek grinned "Really? Can you do that?" He asked, and she nodded.

    "Sure. Anything for my knight in shining armor," she said, and Derek smiled at her as he set down his ss and pulled her close so she would sit on hisp.

    "I can''t wait for this to be over, Eve. I want to go on dates with you and Samantha without worrying about your safety," he said, kissing her bare arm.

    "I want that too. I want a real and normal rtionship with you,"

    she said softly, and Derek kissed her.

    "I love you."

    "I love you too," Evelyn said, holding his gaze.

    As she looked at him, she wondered whether or not to tell him now that one of the reasons she was anxious was because she was yet to see her period.

    She didn''t want to believe that she had taken in again so carelessly, but she had been thinking about it and realized that she had not remembered to take any morning after pill after they had sex at the resort, because of all the drama that ensued.

 Chapter 167

    Michael sat in his apartment, his head in his hands, his mind racing with thoughts of the morning''s confrontation.

    His whole life felt like it was hanging by a frayed thread, barely held together, slipping more with every second. He got up, pacing back and forth across the living room.

    He could almost feel the cell walls closing in, imagining the metallic ng of prison doors locking him inside forever.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    How did ite to this? He''d had it all nned- every detail- but somehow, Derek had found out. And Evelyn. Why did they all seem so concerned about her, like she was part of the family? The way Derek had looked at him earlier, there was something personal there. Why was Derek so invested in her? The sudden ring of his phone pulled him out of his thoughts.

    ncing at the screen, Michael scowled when he saw Sandra''s name shing. His stomach twisted, the rage bubbling up inside.

    He could almost see her smirking,pletely oblivious to the fact that he knew her n to get rid of him.

    How could she sound so normal, so calm, when she was plotting his death? He gripped the phone tightly, wishing he could scream at her, confront her, make her suffer. But he con''t. He knew now that their call was being monitored, and two cops stood just outside his door, ready to step in if he so much as made a wrong move.

    With a deep breath, he swiped to answer, keeping his tone as steady as he could manage. "Hello, Sandra."

    "Hey, Michael! How are you doing?" Sandra''s voice chimed, light and pleasant, as though nothing had changed. "I hope I didn''t catch you at a bad time."

    "Not at all, he replied, forcing a casual tone despite the tension in his jaw.

    "Well, that''s wonderful," she cooed. "I actually need a favor, if you don''t mind."

    Michael clenched his fist, silently cursing her nerve. "What is it?" He asked, knowing that she was probably calling to send him out as she had promised the hitman she would. "Oh, it''s nothing too big, just a little help with a delivery," Sandra exined sweetly. "I ordered a few things online. The person handling it was quite insistent about meeting at a specific location rather than doing a home delivery. Would you mind picking it up for me? I''d do it myself, but I have that ss to attend." "What exactly did you buy that needs to be picked up at such a

    ''discreet'' location?" Michael asked with suspicionced through his words despite his effort to keep his tone neutral.

    "Oh, Mike," she chuckled lightly, "it''s nothing so serious. You know, some essentials for your aunt''s birthday. Just a few things to make sure the party goes off without a hitch. I will stop by your ce to pick it up tomorrow and spend the day with you. I''ve been missing you," Sandra said with a pout.

    The way she breezed through the exnation made Michael''s skin crawl. He knew without a doubt that he would have so easily fallen into her trap had he not heard of her n before now. Never would he have doubted such a harmless-sounding request.

    "Will you be able to help me, or should I make other arrangements?" Sandra asked, confident that he would help since Michael always ended up doing whatever she wanted no matter what, especially if there was the promise of a sexual reward. "Fine, he replied. "Send me the details, and I''ll pick it up," Michael said with a resigned sigh.

    "Thank you! I knew I could count on you." Sandra''s voice practically sang with triumph.

    He heard her inhale as if to end the call, but he stopped her, his voice softer, almost hesitant. "Sandy... do you still love me?"

    There was a brief silence before she broke into a lightugh. "Of course I always have and always will, Mike. Don''t be silly! Why would you ask such a thing? You know you mean the world to me."

    He felt his heart shatter at her response, the forced warmth, the fake affection. She sounded exactly like the woman he had once loved with every fiber of his being, and yet now he saw her for what she was - maniptive, callous, and deadly. "No reason. I was just wondering." "Well, I need to go," she said quickly. "Derek should be here soon, and I have to finish getting ready. Thank you again, Mike. You''re a lifesaver! I''ll send you the location and stuff."

    She hung up the call before he could say anything else, and the line went dead.

    Michael let his hand fall, the phone slipping from his grip and onto the couch beside him. He just stared at the wall for a moment, feeling an overwhelming sense of loss and emptiness.

    Tears pricked at his eyes, and he didn''t bother to stop them as they slid down his cheeks. He felt like a fool, used and discarded by the one person he had loved and trusted most.

    All he had done- every lie, every crime- had been for her, and now she was ready to toss him aside like he was nothing more than a

    rag.

    Had she ever loved him? Had she ever really cared about him? Or had he only been a means to an end? Had he been to Sandra, what Evelyn had been to him?

    He hadn''t realized how much he had messed up until now. The thought of everyone in the family finding out about what he had done only made him feel worse.

    A chilling thought crept into his mind, dark and unyielding. What if he didn''t go along with the ns? What if he took control and ended this cycle of betrayal himself?

    He could envision it: confronting Sandra, taking her life as she had nned to take his, making her pay for the twisted web she had trapped him in. He could take her down, then kill himself, and escape the judgment of prison. It would be the only way to end her deceit and rid himself of this pain. He remembered Derek''s warning but assured himself that there was no way Derek could do anything to him if he seeded in killing himself and Sandra.

    It would be in the best interest of everyone if he did it since prison was too good a ce for someone as evil and wicked as Sandra.

    Taking a deep breath, Michael made up his mind to go along with the n for now, then he would find a way to carry out his own n. He was not going to let Sandra go scot-free. They could both go to hell together.

 Chapter 168

    While Derek freshened up and got ready to leave to pick up Sandra, the doorbell rang, and Evelyn hurried downstairs to receive the package she had ordered before Derek returned.

    After taking the package, she made her way into the guest room and opened the small brown package that had arrived. Inside were several pregnancy test kits, each one an unsettling reminder of her forgotten caution.

    As she stood there contemting whether to try out one of them, she heard Derek calling for her. She quickly tucked the package into a drawer, her heart pounding with the secret she now carried. Taking onest nce at the hidden package, she straightened up and went to join Derek, who was now standing in the living room with a slight frown on his face.

    "Hey! Missing me already?" She asked, hoping her face didn''t betray her nerves.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Derek shed her a warm smile, "I heard the bell and got worried when you didn''te back to the room in time. Who was at the door?" he asked, holding her gaze as he adjusted the cor of his shirt.

    "Oh, a delivery guy. He came to deliver a kitchen item I ordered," Evelyn lied, trying to sound casual as she led the way back upstairs.

    She knew he wasn''t likely to press, but her voice felt tighter than she''d intended. She didn''t like lying to him since they had both made a habit of being honest with each other. But she just wanted to be sure before saying anything. She didn''t want to raise any false rms. Derek looked at her back, wondering why she felt tense. But before he could ask any further questions, his phone buzzed in his pocket, and he took it out to see it was Ethan.

    Evelyn turned, wondering if it was Sandra calling, but Derek showed her the screen before receiving the call. "What''s up, man?" he answered as they walked into the room.

    Evelyn busied herself with straightening up a few items on the dresser, only half-listening to the conversation, though bits and pieces drifted her way.

    Ethan''s voice was low but clear. "I just wanted to let you know I''m heading back to work. We''ll catch up when I return."

    Derek''s face fell slightly. "You''re leaving already? I thought you still had a couple of weeks off."

    Ethan

    let tout a resigned sigh on the other end. "Yeah, I do. But I need to get back. I just need to... clear my head for a while, you know?"

    Derek shook his head, knowing that this was still about the situation with Rayna, "Did your other dates not go well?" Derek asked, even though he knew that was the case. There was a pause, and then Ethan''s voice dropped, more muted.

    "I''d rather not get into it.'' he replied, his tone guarded. "But

    "I''m sure they''d love that""" Derek said softly, ncing give my regards to Evelyn and Samantha. I really do hope to spend more time with them when I''m back."

    over at Evelyn with a thoughtful smile before hanging up.

    "He''s going back to work," Derek informed her, slipping his phone back into his pocket.

    Evelyn shook her head with a faint smirk. "Honestly, I''m d Rayna''s decided to move on. She deserves better," Evelyn said with conviction.

    Derek raised an eyebrow. "Don''t you think it''s a bit soon to reach that conclusion?"

    She crossed her arms, watching him carefully. "If Ethan weren''t acting like such a jerk, maybe things would be different. But I think she''s making the right choice."

    Derek gave a reluctant nod. "He''s not a bad guy, Eve."

    "I never said he was" she replied gently. "I doubt anyone so close to you could be a bad guy. Apart from Michael, of course, she added with a dismissive wave of her hand. Derek chuckled, "I guess there''s always an exception."

    "What I''m trying to say is that Ethan is handling things all wrong, and that doesn''t make him bad; it just makes him... not right for Rayna. Hopefully, he''ll find what he''s looking for someday."

    Derek sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I hope so, too."

    Once Derek was dressed, Evelyn walked him to the front door, her hand warm in his as they made their way to his car. His suit was sharp, and the hint of red in his pocket square gave him a refined, elegant look.

    She couldn''t help but feel a mixture of pride and nerves, wishing she could share what was on her mind but knowing the timing wasn''t right.

    "Be careful, alright?" she said, gripping his hand a little tighter.

    He leaned down, his lips soft against hers. "I will. And you should be, too. Try not to worry too much," he whispered, giving her onest lingering kiss before getting into his car.

    As she watched him pull away, Evelyn took a deep breath and turned back into the house, her mind racing.

    The silence of the house settled around her, thick with the weight of her hidden worry. She made her way back to the guest room, shutting the door behind her. Her fingers trembled as she reached for the envelope containing the pregnancy test kits, barely daring to look at it.

    After a few moments of hesitant breathing, she finally took one out and followed the instructions, her heart hammering as she waited for the result.

    She bit her lip, her eyes fixed on the tiny window of the test, each second feeling like an eternity. Then, the lines appeared - clear and unmistakable.

    Pregnant.

    She tried two more kits to see if the first was an error, but the result was the same.

    Her breath hitched as she sank onto the edge of the bed, the reality of it settling over her in a wave. She pressed a hand to her stomach to calm herself, already picturing Derek''s reaction.

    She knew and trusted him enough to know he''d be thrilled. And she honestly didn''t have any problem with having his child since he had shown her what a wonderful father and partner he was. But she couldn''t help the embarrassment that rose within her. She hadn''t been careful enough, and now this new chapter was suddenly unfolding, unnned yet unavoidable. She really didn''t want to have another child outside wedlock.

    Pushing it all to the back of her mind, Evelyn straightened up and decided to get ready for the reunion. It was going to be a very dramatic evening, and she couldn''t afford to be distracted by this.

    With renewed determination, she went to her closet and picked out a deep-red strapless jumpsuit that matched the red on Derek''s outfit. After all, she''d told Derek she''d wear something red for him and intended to keep that promise.

    She wanted to look her best and annoy Sandra even more since Sandra had shown her the worst she could do was murder her.

    As she slipped it on, the rich color brightened herplexion and gave her the confidence and boldness she desperately needed.

    When she was done styling her hair and applying her makeup, she stood back to survey the final look.

    Once satisfied, she headed out to the driveway, where her bodyguard was already waiting to take her to Raynas bakery.

    As she slid into the backseat, Evelyn took a deep breath and looked out the window, her mind drifting to the future she hadn''t anticipated but was somehow beginning to ept.

    She would tell Derek about it after Sandra had been taken care of.

    But tonight, she would focus on getting through the evening. The night was just beginning, and with so much ahead, Evelyn felt both anxious and hopeful for whaty beyond.

 Chapter 169

    Derek arrived at the Quinn house, pulling up to the driveway with a steady resolve. He knew tonight would be a test of his patience and control.

    As he approached the front door, it swung open, revealing Sandra, who beamed at him, her face lighting up with enthusiasm. It seemed like she had been waiting for him. "Derek! You''re here!" she eximed, stepping forward as if to hug him, but he subtly shifted, pretending to give her a once-over.

    "You look good, Sandra", he said, making her flush with pleasure and not realize that he had just avoided her hug.

    "You''re always so full ofpliments. Thank you," she said with a wide smile and then ushered him in, "Come in,e in! My parents are so eager to see you."

    ire and Eric, who were seated in the living room watching the television, looked up when Derek followed Sandra into the living room.

    They both maintained a carefully neutral expression so as not to give away the fact that they were familiar with him already.

    "Dad, Mom, this is Derek, CEO of Stone Corp. Derek, my parents," Sandra said with a beaming smile as she did the introductions. ire and Eric greeted him with warm smiles and extended their hands with a practiced air of cordiality.

    "Hello, Derek," ire said, her tone deliberately neutral.

    "Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Quinn," Derek replied, giving them a polite nod.

    They exchanged the usual pleasantries, keeping the conversation light and cordial while Sandra went in to finish her look and get her purse.

    All three of them could sense the tension in the room, apart from Sandra, who had no idea that they were all very much aware of her ns.

    After a few minutes, Sandra reappeared, her makeup finished, and her excitement apparent. "Alright, ready to go!" she announced, ncing at her parents. "I will be backte. Or not. Don''t wait up," she said as she reached for Derek''s arm, attempting to hold on to him, but he subtly stepped aside, gesturing toward the door.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    "We will be leaving now. ''Il bring her back early," Derek promised, and Sandra pouted for a moment but quickly masked it with a smile since she didn''t want to offend Derek by seeming too clingy.

    "Our reds don''t match. Mine looks sharper while yours is deep" she observed as they walked outside.

    "You told me red. You didn''t exactly give me a specific shade," he pointed out, d that it didn''t match.

    "You''re right. I suppose red is red. It doesn''t matter the shade," she said, and Derek hoped she would think so when she saw Evelyn''s outfit.

    When they got to the car, Derek opened the car door for her and then took his ce behind the wheel.

    As he drove, she tried to make small talk, chatting about her week and work and how she was excited about the evening ahead, but he only offered brief responses, his thoughts elsewhere.

    In his mind, Derek kept reying hisst conversation with Evelyn before Ethan''s call came in. He was concerned about the tension he''d noticed in her earlier and wondered if she''d truly been okay.

    Had something else happened that she wasn''t telling him? And why had she imed she received a kitchen delivery yet hade out from the guest room instead of the kitchen? Something felt off, and he couldn''t shake the feeling that she was hiding something. "Derek?" Sandra''s voice broke into his thoughts, pulling him back to the present. "Hmm?" he murmured, barely ncing her way.

    "You seem distracted," she observed with a hint of annoyance that she tried to mask. "Thinking about the reunion?"

    "Yeah... something like that. I don''t attend such events, so I''m wondering what I''m going to say and how I''m going to fit in, he replied, giving her a half-smile.

    "Oh, you don''t have to fit in. I''m not exactly very friendly with them.

    Besides, I''m sure when they know who you are, they will be the ones trying to entertain you," she said with a smirk, proud of herself for getting a man like Derek.

    There was no doubt in her mind that Evelyn had lost Derek and didn''t even stand a chance with him. Not when she was a Babymama to some man. All she had to do now was get Evelyn and Michael out of the picture to secure her triumph. In a couple of hours, that would be done.

    Thinking about it, Sandra looked away from Derek as she pulled out her phone, remembering that she had yet to send an important message to the hitman.

    [Also, when you get Michael, do not forget to use his phone to give Evelyn several calls. You should also send some crazy texts that would make it seem like he is obsessed with her. Make it believable.] Satisfied, she put her phone away. "What are you up to?" Derek asked, catching her movement from the corner of his eye.

    "Oh, I''m just checking the group chat to see if everyone has arrived," she replied breezily, shing a casual smile.

    Arriving at Rayna''s bakery, which was the venue, Derek parked and stepped out of the car, going around to get Sandra''s door.

    As they stepped into the bakery side by side, Derek immediately looked around for Evelyn, and his gazended on her across the room.

    She looked stunning in her red jumpsuit, and he felt his chest tighten at the sight of her. The red color matched his own perfectly, and he resisted the urge to smile, keeping hisposure so that Sandra would not notice.

    Across the room, Evelyn felt Derek''s gaze on her, and when she turned and saw him, she pressed her lips together to keep from grinning when he winked at her.

    On the other hand, Sandra''s face fell when she caught sight of

    Evelyn. She red at the deep,plementary shade Evelyn wore, which fit Derek''s red perfectly and made her own attire seem a shade too sharp and out of ce beside Derek.

    If she didn''t know better, she would have thought they had nned it, Sandra mused as she nced from Evelyn to Derek to see if he had noticed Evelyn looking at him, but to Sandra''s pleasure, Derek was smiling down at her instead of looking at Evelyn, "Let''s join the others."

    As they drew closer to the long banquet table, Sandra noticed, to her frustration, that the only avable seats were one next to Evelyn and another directly across from her.

    When they got to the table, they were greeted with polite nods and waves from former ssmates since Sandra wasn''t exactly very friendly with others, unlike Evelyn, who got along with everyone and was loved by all.

    "Is there a way we can adjust the seats so I can sit next to my boyfriend?" Sandra asked hopefully since thest thing she wanted was for either of them to sit beside Evelyn.

    "No, Sandy. The seats were arranged this way to encourage mingling. No one is to sit beside their partner since they would be too distracted to focus on the rest of us," Rayna said sweetly, and Evelyn resisted the urge to giggle. Evelyn had not noticed what Rayna had done until then, and it warmed her heart to see that Rayna was looking out for her so that she wouldn''t have to see Sandra sitting so closely with Derek.

    "That doesn''t even make any sense. Why do I have to sit separately from my boyfriend..."

    "Calm down. Don''t make a scene," Derek whispered, and Sandra stopped.

    "I''m sure you have all the time in the world to spend with your fine-looking boyfriend. A couple of minutes away from him won''t be the end of your rtionship," someone said dryly, and the othersughed.

    "And maybe you should let your boyfriend sit beside Evelyn, seeing as you both don''t get along. I don''t want any fighting in my bakery," Rayna said, and Sandra scowled at her while the others murmured amongst themselves as they looked on in interest.

    "I thought I was imagining things. What possibly could have torn you both apart?" Someone asked curiously.

    Not wanting to miss the opportunity Rayna had presented, Derek spoke quickly. "She is right. I will sit beside Evelyn, and you can sit here. It''s only for a couple of hours. It''s not a big deal," Derek said, guiding Sandra to the seat opposite Evelyn.

    Reluctantly, Sandra settled in the seat opposite Evelyn as Derek held out the seat for her, and after that, Derek went to take the seat beside Evelyn.

    The moment he sat down, Evelyn greeted him with a soft smile,

    "Hello, Derek. It''s good to see you again," she murmured, her gaze meeting his.

    Knowing that Sandra was watching, Derek spared Evelyn a brief nce, unable to bring himself to ignore her even though it was only for show. "Same here. You look gorgeous," he said tly, but from the look in

    his eyes, Evelyn could tell it was a genuinepliment.

    Derek turned away from her, feigning disinterest, but under the table, he reached for her hand and gently squeezed it.

    She felt butterflies flutter in her stomach, and she held back a smile, feelingforted by his touch.

    "You both know each other?" Someone asked, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Of course. This is Derek..."

    Sandra fumed as she watched the interaction, her irritation barely concealed. "He is Derek Stone, my boyfriend."

    Rayna, seated next to Evelyn, smirked as she watched Sandra''s irritation. "You know, if I didn''t know better, I''d say Evelyn and Derek are the couple here, matching and all."

    Sandra''s eyes narrowed as she red at Rayna. "Derek is my boyfriend, not Evelyn''s," she snapped. "Don''t joke about that."

    "Rx, Sandra"" Raynaughed, waving her off. "No one''s going to steal your man tonight," Rayna said while everyone else watched the exchange with amusement.

    Evelyn chuckled, giving Sandra a teasing smile. "No worries, sis.

    I''ve got my own man.

    Rayna giggled, chiming in, "Oh, I wish he hade with you tonight, Evie. A total package, that guy is, I tell."

    Derek struggled to keep a straight face as he gestured for Sandra to calm down. Sandra did her best to stay calm, casting a re at

    Evelyn.

    "No one will be stealing anyone''s man tonight. Besides, you can''t steal a full-grown man that doesn''t want to be stolen. I have no desire to be stolen from the love of my life," Derek assured thedies. Thinking he was referring to her, Sandra blushed while Evelyn and the rest of thedies let out a collective aww.

    "You''re so sweet. Makes me think of Evie''s boyfriend," Rayna said with a wink at Evelyn, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Tell us about this charming boyfriend of yours, Evie," one of thedies said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Yeah, tell us. Ray is making me really curious," anotherdy said.

    "I don''t know where to start," she said with a grin, "He''s so charming, romantic and sweet..."

    "He is handsome and financially loaded, too," Rayna added enthusiastically, and Sandra huffed.

    Determined to disgrace Evelyn, she brought up a topic she thought might embarrass her. "By the way, Evie," she said with an exaggerated smile, "how is your daughter? Why have I yet to meet my niece?" She asked sweetly. "Daughter? Evie, you have a kid?" One of the guys asked. "Yeah. I was surprised to find out, too. She kept it hidden from us all probably because she was too embarrassed about being a single mom," Sandra said, and the room grew quiet.

    Derek looked at Sandra with disapproval, and she shed him an apologetic smile since he seemed displeased with her for revealing that.

    A few people turned to Evelyn in surprise. Unruffled, Evelynughed softly, "Why would I be embarrassed? I have the most adorable little girl."

    Rayna jumped in, "Oh, Samantha''s the

    "Yeah. Let''s see," the others said, and lettiest, smartest kid! Evie, you should show everyone a picture!" She said, knowing that Sandra had brought it up to embarrass Evelyn.

    Evelyn pulled out her phone and showed off photos of Samantha, earningpliments from everyone around. Sandra clenched her fists in anger as she watched as everyone admired Evelyn even more.

    Rayna continued, "Do you guys know what the sweetest thing is?

    Her man adores them so much. He even both them both cars recently. Evelyn got herself the absolute best."

    Sandra, frustrated and searching for an edge, let out a deep sigh as she suddenly eximed, "Poor Michael. I can''t imagine how he must feel to know that Evelyn dumped him on their wedding day for someone more sessful." Everyone fell silent at that, and under the table Evelyn felt Derek''s fist clench, but she ced a hand over it to calm him andughed out loud, the sound calm and unbothered. "Well, anyone in my shoes would do the same after finding their fiance in bed with their stepsister a day before their wedding. Am I

    wrong?" Evelyn asked with a sweet smile.

 Chapter 170

    170

    Surprised gasps and murmurs followed Evelyn''s usation, and even Sandra froze for a moment. She had meant to rattle Evelyn,

    but now all eyes were on her in judgment.

    Sandra cast an innocent nce in Derek''s direction to be sure he wasn''t buying what Evelyn was saying. But Derek maintained a neutral expression as he met her gaze.

    He knew if the situation was reversed and Evelyn was being talked to in this manner, he would step in to defend her, but he wasn''t interested in doing that for Sandra just to keep up the ruse.

    His phone buzzed in his pocket, and he looked away from Sandra.

    He took out his phone to check the message. When he saw it was Sandra''sst text to the hitman, which she had sent while in the car with him, he shook his head

    Sandra quickly recovered and smiled coldly at Evelyn. "Do you have another step-sister I don''t know about, or were you referring to me?" She asked, feigning ignorance.

    Evelyn''s smile didn''t waver, and neither did her gaze on Sandra shift. She merely raised a brow, "Yeah. I havee to realize I have two step-sisters. I realized that from the moment I found out what a two-faced bitch you are. Smiling and being nice and friendly with me while plotting and stabbing me in the back with Michael. Do you know the reason you''re so scared of having me close to Derek? You think I''m like you. But guess what? Unlike you, I only touch what is mine," Evelyn said with a grin. Everyone else around the table stayed quiet as they watched the exchange between the sisters, enjoying the unexpected show.

    Derek felt a surge of pride watching Evelyn hold her own, and his hand tightened around hers in silent support under the table.

    Sandra scoffed, "Are you trying to make me into a bad person so that your action can be justified? We both know that Michael is obsessed with you, and he will never do anything to hurt you. I mean, it''s been six years already, and he hasn''t even given anotherdy a second look. If he and I were as close as you im, why aren''t we already in a serious rtionship or married? Why am I dating his cousin? I don''t know why you re trying to paint us as the bad people, Evie, but trust me when I say all Michael thinks and talks about is you. It''s not fair what you did to him. And what you are saying right now is even more unfair," Sandra said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "You''re full of bullshit, Sandra. I would have bought this bullshit you''re selling if I didn''t see you both myself..."

    "Do you have proof? You''re so full of usations tonight, Evelyn.

    Are you saying all this because Derek is here, and you''re trying to cause problems between us?"

    "Proof? Are you really eager to have me wash your stinking linen out here? Because I will. Don''t tempt me," Evelyn threatened with an amused smile.

    Evelyn''s calm expression andposed tone left Sandra speechless since she wasn''t sure what proof Evelyn had, and something about the way she sounded told Sandra that she wasn''t bluffing.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    Deciding not to provoke her further, especially in Derek''s presence, Sandra seethed silently, seeing as her ns to undermine Evelyn had crumbled before her eyes and even backfired.

    "What? You no longer have bullshit to say? Don''t tell me you don''t have any smarteback for me?" Evelyn asked with a sweet smile, and Rayna chuckled.

    "We can all agree that Evelyn won this verbal fight," Rayna announced with an enthusiastic p. Everyoneughed apart from Sandra and Derek who was trying not to join in theughter himself. Sandra shot Rayna a re, but before any of them could speak again, Evelyn''s phone buzzed with a phone call in her purse.

    She took it out and frowned when she saw it was a call from a familiar-looking number, but she con''t ce it. Before she could rise and excuse herself to go take the call, Derek looked from the corner of his eyes. When he saw the number on the screen, he recognized thest four digits as Michaels, and he realized that the show was on.

    "Don''t take it. It''s Michael," he muttered under his breath for Evelyn''s ears alone, but to anyone else, it sounded like he was cursing under his breath.

    Since she couldn''t look at Derek or say anything to him in front of Sandra, Evelyn turned to Rayna and showed her the call on the screen since she didn''t know why Michael was calling.

    Derek rose and excused himself from the table as he stepped out of the bakery to give the detectives a call and find out what was going on.

    "I guess the show is over," someone said, and the othersughed as they resumed conversations.

    Seeing that Evelyn had been distracted, Sandra narrowed her eyes, wondering if it was because Michael had been kidnapped now and they were calling Evelyn with the phone.

    She hoped that was the case and the mission was going as nned since she wanted nothing more at the moment than to see Evelyn dead after the manner in which she had just humiliated her in the presence of everyone.

    No longer enjoying herself since her n to embarrass Evelyn had failed, Sandra rose and picked up her purse to go join Derek outside so they could leave.

    "Are you leaving already? We haven''t even started the party yet," Rayna asked sweetly, but Sandra eyed her with disdain before walking away.

    As she walked away, she dialed the number of the hitman and didn''t have to wait for long before the call connected, "I hope you''re on it already. I want that bitch dead. Nothing must go wrong tonight," Sandra said under her breath. "I''ve got Michael. My men are around the reunion location waiting for her," he assured her.

    "Good. Let me know the moment you get her. Make sure you don''t kill her immediately. I want her to suffer," Sandra said, and she hung up the call as she approached Derek, who was now standing by the car.

    Just as she drew closer to him, Derek hung up the call with the detective. "Why did youe out?" He asked with a nk expression.

    "I don''t want to remain in there. Let''s leave," she said, and Derek raised an eyebrow.

    "Leave? We only just got here. We haven''t even had a drink..."

    "We can get a drink alone somewhere else. You saw how they were all picking on me," Sandra protested.

    "I don''t think anyone picked on you. And even if they did, they wouldn''t have picked on you had you not said all you said about Evelyn in the first ce. You picked on her, and she returned the favor. Everyone else simply enjoyed the show you began," Derek said, and Sandra frowned. "Are you taking Evelyn''s side?" She asked with displeasure.

    "I''m merely stating a fact. You shouldn''t have done any of that in public. You embarrassed me. And honestly, I regreting here with you tonight, he said, eyeing her with disapproval. Realizing that Der Derek I was mad at her, she quickly shed him an apologetic smile, "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to do that. Evelyn just got on my nerves, and I was only trying to defend Michael..." "That''s not an excuse for the show you put up out there," Derek insisted. "I''m sure this is what Evelyn wanted. She said all of that to make us argue and fight..."

    "You''re obsessed with Evelyn, aren''t you? Is it that you can''t have a proper conversation without bringing her up? You know what? I''m done with all of this. You can find your way home yourself," Derek said irritably as he unlocked his car, and Sandra''s eyes widened in dismay as she quickly grabbed his arm. "I''m sorry. I''m sorry, Derek. I promise never to bring her up in our conversations. I''m sorry. Please don''t leave me out here," she begged, tears springing to her eyes.

    I

    Derek eyed her for a moment before letting out a sigh, "Get into the car, and I will take you back home," he said and got into the car without bothering to get her door as he had done earlier. Sandra immediately got into the car, wondering what she was going to do now about her n to get Derek drunk so he could have sex with her.

    "You must think I''m a terrible person, right? I''m sorry," she said after they had driven in silence for a while, but Derek said nothing.

    He had deliberately acted like he was upset so he could drop her off at home and not have to spend any more time with her. He nned to return to keep an eye on Evelyn''s ''abduction'' so he could ensure that nothing would go wrong.

    "I''m not as bad as you think, Derek. I''m sorry for what happened in there. How about I buy you a drink to make it up to you? Let''s not waste the night or our outfit, she suggested.

    "I''m not in the mood for yourpany or a drink. Let''s just call it a night," he said, and she pouted.

    "De.."

    "It''s been a long week, Sandra, and I don''t need this. I''m only taking you home because I told your parents I will bring you back. Don''t provoke me into dropping you off by the roadside," Derek warned harshly. Getting Derek to stop being mad at her was more important than getting him drunk. He was going to propose to her soon, anyway.

    And with Evelyn and Michael out of the picture, she wouldn''t need to fear anything, Sandra told herself as she pressed her lips together.

    As he drove, Derek thought about Sandra''s conversation with the Hitman just now. She had called while he was on a call with the detective, and the Hitman had ced the call on speaker.

    What did Sandra mean by wanting Evelyn to suffer? Did she want the hitman to inflict the pain on Evelyn, or did she want to do it herself?

    If Sandra wanted to make Evelyn suffer and decided to show up to do it herself, that meant they were going to have to change their ns and not wait until his mother''s birthday to arrest her, as Evelyn wanted.

    Away from there, Inside Rayna''s bakery, Evelyn and Rayna excused themselves from the others and went into Rayna''s office.

    "You did well out there, Evie. I''m proud of you," Rayna said as they sat down, and Evelyn smiled.

    "It felt good talking to her that way," Evelyn admitted, "Thank you for what you did with the seat arrangement," Evelyn said, and Rayna giggled.

    "I did it for myself. Unlike you, I can''t stand seeing Sandra next to Derek. It''s bad for my heart, Rayna said, and Evelynughed softly.

    "I wonder why Michael keeps calling," Evelyn said, ncing at her phone when it vibrated with yet another call from him.

    "Derek probably knows why," Rayna said, and Evelyn nodded. It had seemed so earlier.

    "Seeing how Sandra left with her tail tucked between her legs in defeat, I''m sure she wants your head now," Rayna said as she walked over to the little bar in her office.

    "Yeah. I''m a little anxious" Evelyn confessed as she sighed deeply.

    "That''s why you need a little drink to rx," Rayna said, but Evelyn shook her head before Rayna could pour some wine into a second ss for her.

    "I can''t take alcohol," she said, stopping Rayna.

    "Why not? Don''t worry. You won''t get drunk.."

    "It''s not that, Ray. I''m pregnant," she said quietly.

    Rayna''s eyes widened in surprise, "What?" She screeched with a happyugh, and Evelyn smiled, grateful for her friend''s excitement.

    "Why didn''t you say so before now? Oh, Evie! I''m so happy for you.

    Congrattions," Rayna said as she hurried over to embrace Evelyn.

    "Derek must be over the moon," Rayna said, and then paused before Evelyn could respond, "If you''re pregnant, why are you putting up this whole stressful show for Sandra?" Evelyn sighed, "I only found out about the pregnancy beforeing here," she said, and Rayna frowned. "Does that mean Derek doesn''t know about it yet?" She asked, and Evelyn nodded.

    "I n to tell him after all this is over.."

    "After what is over? The reunion, right? I''m sure that''s what you mean," Rayna said, not wanting to believe that Evelyn was thinking of hiding the pregnancy from Derek for weeks.

    Evelyn looked at Rayna, "You think I should tell him about it immediately and not wait until after Sandra''s arrest?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna smiled.

    "You can only tell him about it after Sandra''s arrest if she is being arrested tonight. But you should tell him about that tonight if that''s not the case. Derek should know about it at once. You kept his daughter from him for six years, and you want to keep this pregnancy from him for weeks, too?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn rolled her eyes.

    "Stop being dramatic. I didn''t keep Sam from him for six years. I didn''t even know who he was," she said defensively.

    "We are saying the same thing. Tell him tonight, Evie. He should know," Rayna said, and Evelyn sighed.

    "Alright. I will take your advice since you always seem to give the best advice," she said, and Rayna smiled. "Good. Now, I will find you something safe to drink, and we will celebrate."

 Chapter 171

    As they reached the Quinns residence, Derek pulled the car to a stop without looking at her. He barely waited for her to unbuckle her seatbelt before unlocking the doors. His gaze remained fixed forward, expression unreadable.

    "Thank you, Derek," Sandra said, her voice low, hoping he would soften.

    But Derek didn''t respond. Instead, he turned his face away from her and waited. She opened the door, pausing as though she expected him to say something, anything but he only stared straight ahead. With a frustrated sigh, Sandra climbed out of the car and closed the door. The moment it shut, Derek drove away, leaving Sandra staring after him in the dim light of the front porch.

    As he pulled away from the house, Derek felt a wave of relief wash over him. She was finally out of the car, and he could breathe again.

    He reached for his phone, dialing Evelyn''s number as he turned onto the empty street leading back toward Rayna''s bakery.

    The phone rang twice before Evelyn picked up, her voice a little calm and warm. "D? Has she left?" Evelyn asked as she excused herself from the group ofdies she had been chatting with.

    "Yeah, I dropped her off,'' he said, feeling a smile tug at the corner of his lips as he thought about the exchange between Evelyn and Sandra at the bakery. "You handled her really well earlier, by the way. That was impressive."

    Evelyn chuckled softly. "I was just hoping I didn''t go too far and embarrass you."

    Derek''s smile softened. "Oh, trust me, I had fun. Honestly, I was probably just as entertained as everyone else in there. You were fire."

    Evelyn''sughter drifted through the line, light and genuine. "d I could amuse you. I had fun, too... but I don''t know, I feel a bit anxious about everything now that I''ve provoked her even more."

    Derek didn''t respond right away, remembering what he''d overheard Sandra say to the hitman. For a split second, he considered telling Evelyn the details but held back, deciding against it; she was already tense, and he didn''t want to add to her anxiety. "Hey, don''t worry. I''m not going to leave you alone in this, okay? Im actually nning to hang around until the reunion is over so I can take you back myself. I don''t think I can rest easy letting anyone else pick you up as we nned."

    Evelyn let out a small sigh of relief. "Thank you, D. That makes me feel a lot better." She paused before adding, "By the way, do you know why Michael called me earlier? He kept calling, and it just felt strange."

    Derek''s jaw tightened, but he kept his tone calm. "It wasn''t exactly Michael. The call was part of Sandra''s n. She told the hitman to call from Michael''s phone to make it look like he was thest person you heard from before you... disappeared." Evelyn shuddered involuntarily and took a slow breath, processing his words. "I have to admit, Sandra is disturbingly thorough with her ns." "Just rx," he told her gently. "Enjoy the night, okay? I''ll be nearby when you''re ready to leave."

    "Alright, I''ll let you know when I''m done. And actually, I have something to tell you," Evelyn said, her voiceced with a hint of mystery.

    "Oh? What is it?" Derek asked, his curiosity piqued.

    "You will find out when I see you," she said with a small smile.

    Derek groaned. "You shouldn''t have brought it up if you weren''t going to tell me now. Now I''m dying to know. Can you give me a hint?" Is it something good or bad?" He asked, wondering if it had anything to do with her behavior at home earlier. She chuckled softly. "It''s not exactly something bad... but I suppose it will be up to you to decide how you feel about it." "What does that even mean?" He asked with an amused smile.

    Evelyn only smiled through the phone. "It means I can''t tell you now. It''s not really a conversation for over the phone. You''ll understand when we talk."

    "Now you''ve really got me wondering." Heughed, shaking his head. "What if I just pop in there and pretend I''m mad at you for embarrassing Sandra, just to drag you out and make you tell me?"

    Evelynughed at his idea, her voice light and free. "That wouldn''t make any sense at all. You can wait a little while. I''ll be out soon, I promise."

    "How soon is soon?" Derek asked, a hint of impatience in his tone.

    "An hour" she replied, sounding a bit hesitant as though she were estimating.

    "An hour?" he echoed, pretending to sound outraged.

    "Yeah. I think I''ve been on the phone long enough. I need to join the others."

    "Tell me the truth-is any of the guys flirting with you in there?" Derek asked suspiciously.

    Evelyn chuckled. "You must think everyone is like you. Why do you ask?"

    "Because you''re in a hurry to leave me and go talk to someone else. I saw some guys checking you outearlier- especially that one who asked if you had a kid," Derek said, and sheughed outright. "Oh, really? Don''t tell me you''re jealous," Evelyn said with a grin.

    Derek raised a brow. "How can I not be jealous when I have the most beautiful woman in my life? I don''t want anyone else looking at her."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Evelynughed again, a warm sound that melted his heart. "Don''t worry. No one but you could hold my attention. Besides, you saw how Rayna was full of praises for you tonight," she said, and Derek shook his head, chuckling. "That friend of yours is really something, you know? I owe her big time. She''s wonderful," Derek said, and Evelyn grinned as she looked across the room at Rayna, who was busy interacting with the others.

    "Yes, she is an Angel. I''m so lucky to have her in my corner, Evelyn said, and grinned when Rayna caught her gaze across the room and winked at her.

    "Well, you''re the only Angel I know, and I can''t wait for everything to end so I can make us public. That way, everyone can stay away from you," Derek said, his voice a low murmur.

    Evelyn giggled. "And everyone can stay away from you too. It goes both ways. Now, can I go back to join the party? You have me to yourself every day, but I don''t know when else I''m going to see everyone here this way."

    Derek felt his chest swell at her words about having her to himself.

    "Alright. Go have fun. I''ll be waiting. I love you," he said softly, his voice carrying the depth of his feelings.

    Evelyn''s voice softened. "I love you too. I''ll see you soon."

 Chapter 172

    172

    Sandra paced back and forth in her room and nced at her phone every few seconds. The silence was thick, and it was heavy on her nerves.

    She had been waiting for over an hour now since Derek dropped her off. All she wanted was to hear that Evelyn had been captured. Her heart burned with hatred like never before for Evelyn, and she wanted the worst possible humiliation and death for her.

    She clenched her fists, impatient, as she finally gave in to her frustration and dialed the number.

    The line rang twice before the hitman answered, "Yes?"

    Sandra''s voice was tense, barely concealing her irritation. "Do you have any news?"

    There was a pause on the other end before the man responded, his voice calm but cautious. "If I had, I would have called already.

    As I told you thest time, she is still at the reunion. We''re still waiting for her to leave. We will get her at the right moment."

    Sandra''s jaw tightened, and she fought the urge to snap. "I hope you do. I want to see Michael," she demanded. "Send me a video, or better yet, let''s do a video call," she said, needing to focus on at least the part of her n that was going well.

    The hitman grunted, acknowledging her order. "Give me a minute." The line went quiet for a moment, and Sandra could hear faint shuffling sounds as he moved. She paced to her window, drumming her fingers against the sill, her eyes narrowing as she watched the night sky.

    Finally, the call switched to video, and the image flickered to life on her screen. The video showed a dimly lit, musty-looking storage room in a warehouse. The camera tilted down, revealing Michael slumped in a chair. His wrists were tied to the armrests with thick rope, and his head hung low, chin to his chest. A piece of duct tape was stered across his mouth, and for a moment, he looked unconscious, his body limp.

    Sandra leaned closer to her phone, her eyes gleaming with a cold, cruel satisfaction. "Did you knock him out?" she asked, her voice low and almost amused.

    The hitman nodded, shifting the camera slightly to give her a better view. "I did. Just enough to keep him quiet."

    Sandra''s lips twisted into a small, evil smile. "Good. But don''t lose focus. Make sure you get Evelyn tonight. I will be staying up, waiting for your call." She tilted her head, her voice dropping to a menacing whisper. "And make sure she is in worse shape than the fool is. Do whatever you want with her... just don''t kill her until I arrive. I want herst sight to be my face. I want to be there for the final moment."

    The hitman gave a curt nod. "Understood."

    Satisfied, Sandra disconnected the call, the wicked sparkle in her eyes slowly fading as she let out a cold, triumphant sigh. She tossed her phone onto the bed, feeling a twisted sense of anticipation, imagining the fear that would fill Evelyn''s eyes when they finally met face-to-face before her death.

    Unable to stay still, she changed her clothes into something less conspicuous and picked up her car key. She was going to go back there and wait to see them abduct Evelyn with her own eyes.

    Away from there, Evelyn stepped out of the bakery, the cool night air brushing against her face as the lively chatter from inside gradually faded behind her. She wrapped her arms around herself, ncing back at the warmly lit bakery. It had been a night ofughter and nostalgia, but there was a quietness settling over her now.

    "Hey, wait up!" Rayna called, hurrying over to her with a bag of leftover desserts. She slipped her arm through Evelyn''s as they walked toward the parking lot together. "I packed you some sweet treats."

    Evelyn smiled, "Thanks. If I''m not careful around you, I''m going to be obese soon," she said as she took the bag from her, and Raynaughed softly.

    "I''m sure that won''t happen. So, you''re going to tell Derek tonight, right?"

    Evelyn offered a soft smile. "Yes, Ray. I''ll tell him," she said, her voice reassuring, though her stomach fluttered at the thought.

    Rayna squeezed her arm, pulling her into a warm embrace. "It''s going to be fine, Evie. You know that, right? Derek loves you more than anything; he will be thrilled."

    Evelyn hugged her back, drawing strength from her friend''s confidence. "Yeah. I know that. Thank you, Ray."

    "There''s nothing to thank me for," Rayna said as she stepped back,N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    her eyes scanning the nearby cars as she escorted Evelyn to her

    car.

    Her brows pulled together when she spotted a car that looked sort of familiar at the other side of the parking lot.

    "By the way, Ethan called earlier to tell Derek that he was going back to the sea," Evelyn said, and Rayna looked away from the car to focus on the conversation.

    "Good for him. I wish him good luck,, Rayna said as they got Evelyn''s car, and then she leaned over, rapping her knuckles on the driver''s window.

    The window slid down, revealing the familiar face of Evelyn''s bodyguard. "Just wanted to be sure you are the one in there," Rayna said with a small smile before turning to Evelyn.

    "You''ve got a safe ride"" Rayna said, relieved. She looked at Evelyn, giving her onest smile. "Call me as soon as you are settled, okay?"

    "I will," Evelyn promised, offering a gentle wave as Rayna stepped back onto the sidewalk, watching her until she was safely in the

    car.

    As the car pulled away, Rayna stood

    there and waited until it disappeared before turning to return inside the bakery so she could lock up the ce and go home. But as she turned, she didn''t see the car she''d

    noticed earlier slowly roll forward, its

    headlights dim as it began to pick up

    speed.

    By the time she caught sight of it, the car had already elerated, bearing down in her direction with rming speed, and she froze on the spot, petrified.

    A figure suddenly darted from the shadows, moving with swift, determined purpose as he pushed his body to its limit and sprinted toward Rayna with everything he had na split second, he lunged forward, his arms reaching out and making contact just in time to shove Rayna out of the way.

    The force of the push sent her

    sprawling to the ground, her gasp of surprise mingling with the crunch of gravel as shended on her side, narrowly avoiding the vehicle. But he had no time to dodge; the car swerved but still clipped him with a brutal, sickening thud.

    §ã§Ñ§Ò

    The impact threw him backward, his body crumpling onto the pavement.

    The vehicle sped off before he even hit the ground, and Rayna, having recovered from her shock, scrambled to her feet, rushing to his side to see the person who had just saved her.

    She could feel her heartbeat pounding in her ears, her hands shaking as she reached for him, horror twisting her insides at the sight of his unmoving form.

    "Ethan!" Rayna''s voice broke the silence, raw and panicked, when she saw his face.

 Chapter 173

    Inside her car, Evelyn let out a shaky breath as she texted Derek to let him know she was on her way and he could meet them at the intersection ahead since they didn''t want anyone to spot them together.

    After sending the text, she gazed out the window and upied her mind by counting the streetlights as they drove past each one so she wouldn''t have to worry about what wasing next.

    After a few quiet minutes, the driver nced back. "Ma''am, please fasten your seatbelt," he said, his tone polite but urgent. Startled by the sudden request, Evelyn blinked butplied, clicking her seatbelt into ce. Just as she settled, the driver''s foot pressed heavily on the gas.

    The car surged forward, and Evelyn''s heart jumped as they sped down the quiet street. The car weaved sharply as though trying to evade a pursuer.

    Her knuckles whitened as she clutched the door handle with one hand and ced the other protectively on her abdomen, nausea rising with each sudden swerve.

    "W-What''s going on?" she stammered, feeling her stomach turn.

    The driver''s eyes met hers briefly in the rearview mirror.

    "Apologies, ma''am," he said hurriedly. I thought someone was chasing us, but the car just zoomed past us," he said as he slowed to a stop at the side of the road, ncing back with a look of sincere apology. I''m sorry I made you ufortable."

    Without a word, Evelyn stumbled out of the car, leaning against the curb as her stomach rebelled. Her breaths came in shallow gasps, her body trembling from the sudden rush of adrenaline. The driver approached, his face etched with concern. "Ma''am, I really didn''t mean-"

    But before he could finish, another car''s headlights swept over them from the opposite side, and Derek quickly parked his car and hurried toward her. "Babe!" he called, his voice filled with worry as he reached her side.

    Evelyn forced a weak smile, trying to regain herposure, but she felt pale and shaken. Derek''s arm slid around her shoulders, guiding her gently toward his own car parked nearby. He opened the door, helped her inside, and handed her a bottle of water. She took a sip, savoring the cool liquid as it eased her nausea.

    "Just breathe," he murmured, rubbing her back in slow, soothing circles. His touch calmed the tremors in her hands. "Are you alright? Do you feel better now?"

    Evelyn nodded, managing a faint smile as she leaned back against the seat. "Thank you. I''m okay now."

    Derek studied her carefully, his gaze filled with a quiet intensity.

    When he was satisfied that she''d regained her strength, he reached over, fastening her seatbelt for her, his hand lingering for just a moment in a reassuring touch.

    He turned to her bodyguard and after being told what had happened, he nodded. "I will take it from here. You can give the police a call now. They will meet you here and take over," Derek said before climbing into the driver''s seat.

    Derek nced at Evelyn. "You''re sure you are ready to go now?" He asked, and when she gave him a nod, he started the engine.

    As they drove in silence, Evelyn''s fingers twisted in herp, her mind racing with the words she knew she had to say before they got to the warehouse where Michael was being held.

    After a few more minutes, Derek nced at her, concern flickering in his eyes. "Are you sure you''re okay?" he asked softly.

    She took a deep breath, steeling herself. "Yeah. About what I wanted to tell you earlier..."

    Derek''s gaze sharpened, and he gave a small nod for her to go on while his gaze remained on the road, "I''m listening."

    Evelyn''s heart pounded as she searched for the right words, but they all felt tangled and uncertain. "I wasn''t sure how to bring it up, and I was hoping to tell you in a more rxed moment... but I think you might want to know now." Derek turned to spare her a nce, and she could see the hint of tension that edged his features. "You can tell me anything, babe," he assured her softly.

    Swallowing hard, Evelyn forced the words out, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... I think I might be expecting."

    Silence filled the car for a heartbeat as he tried to process what she had just said. Then, Derek''s foot hit the brake abruptly, and the car jerked to a stop in the middle of the empty road. He turned to her, shock written across his face. "Do you mean what I think?"

    "Yes. Derek" she said gently, ncing around the road. "It''ste, and.. you''re kind of parked in the middle here," she said, feeling anxious.

    With a start, he refocused, quickly

    steering them to the side of the road. Once safely pulled over, he looked ather, his expression softening as he took in the meaning

    of her words. "When you say you think... are you just guessing, or-?"

    CMSThis text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    "I took a test, Evelyn admitted, her cheeks warming under his intense gaze. "A few, actually. And they were all positive."

    He blinked, a slight furrow appearing between his brows. "When did you do that?"

    "Earlier today, after you left," she said, knowing he was probably trying to figure out how long she had been hiding it from him. "I had a suspicion before, but I wasn''t sure."

    "Eve..." He seemed at a loss for words, his eyes widening as he processed what she had just said. He shook his head, a mixture of disbelief and wonder lighting his face. "You mean you''ve been feeling this way for a while?" "Sort of," she whispered, ncing down.

    "You mean a baby... MY baby is growing in there? Why didn''t you say anything when you began to suspect it?" He asked, cing a hand on her abdomen in wonder.

    A small smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. "I wanted to bepletely sure of it first."

    Derek''s expression shifted, determination recing his initial

    shock. "I''m taking you home."

    He was happy. He was over the moon with joy even though the shock was yet ri wear off. But right now, he needed to get her home to safety.

    She blinked, surprised by the sudden firmness in his tone. "But we had a n... we were supposed to-"

    "To hell with the n. I''m not putting

    you, or our baby, at risk just to y

    Sandra''s gay

    or put up a show for

    her. It was hard enough to go ahead with this crazy n before, but now that a baby is in the picture, I''m not going to let you go through this stress. I''m not risking it. Sandra can go to hell. Nothing else matters right now," he said, his voice soft but resolute.

    Evelyn''s heart warmed at his words, a wave of emotion surging within her as he squeezed her hand. She could see the fear and worry etched into his face, but beneath it all was a fierce love that grounded her giving her the strength she needed.

    Before Evelyn could respond, Derek''s phone buzzed, the name of the detective shing on the screen. Derek answered, his voice tense as he ced the call on speaker.

    "I know we''re supposed to be there, but the ns have changed.

    So, that won''t be happening anymore. I''m taking her home with me. You have enough evidence as it is to get Sandra."

    "We can finish it up tonight if you bring her over. This won''t take long. Sandra ns to show up there to see Evelyn. Let''s catch her in the act," the detective said.

    "No. I don''t want to take that risk. I don''t Sandra in the same room

    with her.."

    "Just long enough to take a picture or for us to make a video for Sandra''s benefit. You can take her away after the video, the detective said.

    There was a long pause, and Evelyn could tell that Derek was torn between keeping her safe and getting rid of Sandra.

    Evelyn smiled as she reached for his hand and squeezed it softly,

    "Let''s go ahead with the n. I will be fine. I really want to be done with this."

    Derek considered it for a moment, "You re only going to be there long enough for her to see a picture or video. After that, I''m taking you home. I''m not letting that psychopath anywhere near you," Derek said, holding her hand tightly. Evelyn nodded. "Okay"" she whispered, smiling through the tears that pricked at the corners of her eyes. His love and concern for her touched her deeply.

 Chapter 174

    Rayna sank to her knees beside Ethan, her whole body trembling as she took in the sight of him. Blood seeped from a gash on his forehead, pooling under him, and his army twisted at an unnatural angle. His breathing was shallow, barely there, and her heart clenched in terror.

    "Ethan, please... stay with me. Don''t leave me"" she whispered, her voice thick with desperation. Her hands fluttered helplessly over him, afraid to touch, afraid to cause more pain, but unable to pull away.

    She fumbled for her phone, her fingers shaking so badly it took three tries to unlock it. She dialed emergency services, her voiceing out in gasps as she gave their location, pleading with them to hurry.

    Within minutes, the distant sound of sirens filled the air, but each second stretched endlessly, and she felt as though time was slipping away. "Come on,e on.." she murmured, squeezing his hand as if her grip alone could anchor him to life.

    Finally, the ambnce pulled up, its lights shing red and blue across the dark parking lot. Paramedics rushed out, their faces set in focus as they approached, assessing Ethan quickly. Rayna stepped back just enough to give them room, but she couldn''t take her eyes off him.

    "We''ll take him to Ludus General," one of the paramedics informed her, his tone brisk yet kind. "Are youing with us?"

    Rayna nodded, her voice too choked with fear to respond aloud.

    As they attended to Ethan, she hurriedly went in to lock her bakery and picked up her purse before joining them in the ambnce. She clutched her purse in one hand and held onto Ethan''s hand with the other. As the doors closed, she nced at his pale face, and her heart twisted painfully.

    Once they were on their way, she pulled out her phone again, scrolling down to find Melvin''s number. Her fingers hovered over Evelyn''s name, but she hesitated, knowing Evelyn was going through her own troubles. With a deep breath, she pressed Melvin''s contact instead.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    The line rang, and her heart thumped with every ring. Finally, Melvin picked up. "Rayna?" His voice was filled with curiosity as he wondered why she was calling sote at night.

    "Melvin... it''s Ethan. He-he''s been in an ident," she stammered, swallowing the lump in her throat. "We''re on our way to the hospital now. Please... meet us there."

    The other end of the line went quiet for a second before Melvin''s voice came back, steady butced with concern. "I''ll be there as soon as I can."

    She hung up, ced her phone back in her bag, and turned her attention back to Ethan. His face was still, his breathing so faint it was almost undetectable. A tear slipped down her cheek as she gripped his hand even tighter. "Please, Ethan... you have to be strong. Don''t... don''t leave me. Not like this."

    The ambnce pulled up to the hospital, and the paramedics wasted no time getting Ethan out on a stretcher. Rayna followed close behind, her heart racing and her legs wobbling with each step.

    Inside, a nurse approached her, gently guiding her to a waiting area as they wheeled Ethan through a set of swinging doors and into the emergency room.

    It wasn''t long before a police officer approached her, a small notepad in hand, his expression gentle but businesslike. "Miss, we''ll need a statement from you about the ident."

    Rayna nodded, wiping at her cheeks and steadying herself as best as she could. "It was... a car. I didn''t see who was driving," she began, her voice shaky. "The car... it looked familiar. I noticed it earlier. It was intentional. The car was aiming for me, but Ethan saved me. I saw it before it happened, but I... I didn''t see the driver." The officer nodded, jotting down her words. "Can you describe the car?"

    "It was a dark sedan" she murmured, closing her eyes briefly, trying to recall every detail. "And I think... I think the security cameras around might have caught it on video."

    The officer gave a reassuring nod. "Thank you. We''ll ask around for the footage ande back if we need more information.

    Someone will be by to talk to the victim once he''s awake."

    Rayna nodded, barely registering his words as he walked away.

    Left alone, she resumed her pacing, her hands twisting nervously as she nced toward the ER doors every few seconds, praying they would open with news.

    As she paced, her thoughts swirled. Why had Ethan been there?

    Wasn''t he supposed to have left already for work? Had hee around to make up with her? Why had he risked himself to save her? The questions echoed in her mind, unanswered, leaving her heart heavy with guilt and confusion.

    She should have seen the car faster; she should have moved out of the way instead of standing there frozen like a stupid deer. If only she had acted fast, Ethan would not have had to throw himself into harm''s path for her. "Ethan, please be fine.." she whispered to herself, a new wave of tears stinging her eyes.

    Just then, she heard hurried footsteps, and she turned to see Melvin entering the waiting room. "Rayna!" He hurried over when his eyesnded on her.

    "Melvin.." Rayna''s voice broke as she tried to exin, fresh tears streaming down her face. "Ethan... he got hurt... because of me.

    He... he pushed me out of the way and got hit by the car. He saved me."

    Melvin''s expression softened, and he ced aforting hand on her shoulder. "It''s okay, Rayna. Ethan will be fine. He''s a tough one.

    It''ll take more than a car to keep him down," he assured her, his voice steady but filled with warmth.

    She sniffled, ncing up at him with hopeful eyes. "But... the paramedics said he might have broken his arm. And he... he was bleeding so much..."

    Melvin pulled her into a gentle hug, letting her cry into his shoulder as he rubbed her back soothingly. "He''s strong. Don''t worry, Rayna.

    Ethan''s tougher than he looks, and he will pull through. I know he will."

    Rayna closed her eyes, letting his words sink in, clinging to the hope he offered.

    Away from there, Sandra gripped the steering wheel, her knuckles white against the leather, her breaths shallow and fast as she parked her car far away from the ident scene but not so far away from her home. She switched off the engine, her fingers trembling as she withdrew the key. Silence engulfed her in the car, but her heart continued to thunder in her chest, each beat a reminder of her foolishness and recklessness. "Stupid," she muttered under her breath, cursing herself for losing control. She clenched her fists, mming one against the steering wheel in frustration.

    Seeing Evelyn and Rayna together,ughing and so carefree in the parking lot, had been the final straw, pushing her beyond reason.

    Her hatred for Evelyn had also rubbed off on Rayna, who was beginning to steadily get on her nerves, and this hatred had clouded her mind, made her act without thinking, and now, with the adrenaline wearing off, the gravity of her mistake settled heavily over her. Who was that idiot who stepped in? Sandra mused angrily, thinking of the stranger who''d thrown himself into harm''s way for Rayna''s safety. She hadn''t ounted for a third person and hadn''t anticipated anyone being close enough to ruin her n.

    Her stomach twisted as she realized her impulsive act had put her

    in serious jeopardy. They would trace the car; it was only a matter of time.

    A fresh wave of fury surged through her veins, directed at herself but also at Evelyn. Evelyn was the root of all her problems, the reason her life felt like it was unraveling piece by piece. If Evelyn hadn''t shown up after all these years if she had just stayed away and not returned... Sandra seethed, her teeth clenched tightly.

    She took a steadying breath, trying to clear her mind. "I have to get home," she whispered to herself. Derek had dropped her off earlier

    - her alibi was solid if she yed it carefully.

    All she needed was to be home, to let the night pass quietly so that by morning, her alibi would hold since she knew her parents heard her when she came in after Derek dropped her off.

    She turned her head and checked her surroundings, making sure no one was watching. Then, in one swift movement, she pushed the car door open and stepped out.

    She was going to make it look like her car had been stolen, used, and then abandoned. She left the key on the seat, bot wanting to bring any evidence into the house. The cold night air sent a chill down her spine as she hurried toward her home, her footsteps careful and quiet.

    Once inside, she exhaled slowly, a flicker of relief crossing her face as she slipped into the familiar safety of her house. She tiptoed through the darkened hallway, her shoes barely making a sound against the floor. She moved cautiously, hoping to make it to her room unnoticed, the cover of darkness aiding her.

    But just as she ced a hand on her doorknob, a voice shattered her hopes. "Sandra?" Eric''s deep, groggy voice cut through the silence, sending a jolt of panic through her as he turned on the light in the hallway. Sandra froze, her heart hammering wildly. She turned slowly, schooling her face into a neutral expression. He was standing in his bedroom doorway, one eyebrow raised, his eyes scrutinizing her from head to toe. "Where are youing from?" he asked his tone a mixture of suspicion and weariness.

    Sandra swallowed hard, forcing a tight smile. "Oh, I... I just went to get a ss of water." Her voice sounded unconvincing even to her own ears, and she cursed herself inwardly for sounding so nervous.

    Her father''s gaze narrowed as he took in her appearance, noting the clothes she still had on. "You went to get water dressed like that?" he asked, his voiceced with doubt. He gestured to her outfit, his eyes sharp as he looked her over. Sandra forced augh, feigning nonchnce. "1, um... I was thinking of going out. You know, clubbing, but I changed my mind.

    I decided to just have a drink of water instead and head back to bed." She managed a smile, hoping to pass off her lie with some semnce of credibility.

    For a moment, he studied her, his expression unreadable. Sandra''s heart pounded as she waited, hoping he wouldn''t probe further.

    Finally, he gave a slow nod. "Alright," he said, stepping back. "Have a good night, Sandra." Relief washed over her as she returned his nod, murmuring, "Goodnight." She slipped away, fighting to keep her steps steady as she moved toward her room.

 Chapter 175

    Derek held on to Evelyn''s hand as he drove, his heart racing with different thoughts on how to put an end to Sandra''s shenanigans so that he could focus on his rtionship with Evelyn.

    The joy of her pregnancy announcement was still warm in his heart, but the urgency of keeping her safe pushed any celebration to the back of his mind.

    As they drove in a tense, determined silence, Derek''s phone buzzed once again. This time, the caller ID showed Eric. Derek nced at Evelyn, silently asking if she wasfortable with him answering. She gave him a reassuring nod. cing the call on speaker, Derek greeted, "Hello, Eric."

    "Derek," her father''s voice came through, a mix of concern and weariness. "Just checking in. Is everything alright? How''s Evelyn?" Derek let out a sigh as he fought to keep his tone calm. "She''s with me," he said, ncing over at Evelyn, who managed a small smile.

    "Hello, Dad. I''m alright, Evelyn greeted.

    There was a pause on the line before Eric spoke again. "Did something happen? I thought you were supposed to be with the detectives?" He asked, wondering if he was mistaken about the details of the n and had it mixed up. Evelyn nced at Derek, who hesitated, unwilling to reveal Evelyn''s pregnancy just yet. Not when he had yet to digest it himself fully.

    "There has been a change in ns. But we''re on our way to join the others now. I don''t want to wait anymore. Sandra''s been too unpredictable, and I want her arrested tonight. I don''t think I have the patience for weeks of this," he said, thinking of Sandra''s earlier request to make Evelyn suffer.

    There was a heavy sigh from Eric. "I understand, and honestly, that''s why I called. I''m not certain, but it looked like Sandra might have gone somewhere tonight. She left the house after you dropped her off earlier, and her car was missing when she returned a while ago."

    Derek''s brows knit in confusion. "She left the house after I dropped her off? What is she up to?"

    Evelyn looked at Derek, worry creeping into her expression. "Where could she have gone after you left her?"

    Eric continued, his voice lowering. "She seemed... jittery when I talked to her, and she even denied leaving. She was wearing ck outfits, looking like she''d been somewhere she didn''t want anyone to know about. I just wanted to make sure Evelyn was safe."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Derek''s heart hammered, his thoughts racing. "Thank you, Eric.

    We''ll keep a close watch."

    "Try to rest now," Evelyn said, and with that, they ended the call.

    Turning to Evelyn, Derek''s gaze was intense. "Did you notice the car that sped past earlier? The car Brad thought was chasing after you?"

    Evelyn shook her head. "No. I didn''t see anything."

    Derek nodded, "Could you give Brad a call? I have a feeling I might have been Sandra," Derek said, and then Evelyn picked up her phone and dialed her bodyguard''s number.

    He quickly answered. "Yes, ma''am?"

    "Quick question, Brad. Did you get a good look at the car that zoomed past you guys earlier?" Derek asked, his tone edged with urgency.

    The bodyguard confirmed the make and model, and Evelyn''s eyes widened as the description rang through the car. "That''s Sandra''s car.

    Derek''s expression hardened, his jaw clenched. "Thanks, Brad," Derek said, and Evelyn hung up the call.

    "It seems like she went back to Rayna''s bakery. Why would she go back there? Do you think that maybe she was suspecting us?" Evelyn asked with a confused frown.

    "I don''t think that is the case. It''s possible she wanted to keep an eye on things and see you being kidnapped herself," Derek said thoughtfully.

    "If that''s the case, don''t you think she must have seen us?" Evelyn asked, but Derek shook his head.

    "She zoomed past you, remember? The question is, why did she do that?"

    The question hung in the air as they both tried to figure out what Sandra was up to. Derek couldn''t shake the feeling that Sandra was up to something dangerous. Before he could voice his thoughts, Evelyn turned to him. "I should probably call Rayna. Let''s find out if she heard from Sandra or saw her," she suggested, and when Derek nodded, she quickly dialed Raynas number.

    It rang a few times before Rayna answered, her voice faint and choked with emotion. "Evie?"

    "Ray, it''s me. Are you alright?" Evelyn asked, her concern deepening at the sound of Rayna''s voice and sniffling.

    There was a pause, and Rayna''s voice broke. "Evelyn... Ethan - he was in an ident."

    Evelyn''s face went pale, her hand flying to her mouth as she processed the news. "What? What happened? How?" She asked as she quickly ced the phone on speaker and turned to look at Derek with wide eyes.

    From the driver''s seat, Derek''s gaze flicked between Evelyn and the road, worry knitting his brows.

    Rayna took a shaky breath, her voice trembling. "Someone tried to run me down. Ethan... he jumped in and saved me, but he was hit instead."

    "Oh, my God! How is he doing? I hope he''s not so badly hurt. How are you doing?" Evelyn asked, deeply worried now.

    "He''s still in the theater being operated on. I really hope he is fine, Evie. I''m so scared, Rayna cried, and Evelyn, being a sympathetic crier, joined in the tears.

    Derek''s grip on the wheel tightened, his mind racing. "Hello, Rayna!

    Don''t worry. I believe Ethan will be fine. We''ll be there as soon as we finish over here. Did you see the car that hit him?" Derek asked since that was more important at the moment than asking her what Ethan had been doing there instead of on the ship he was meant to board as he had told him. Rayna sniffled, struggling to speak through her tears. "I saw it in the parking lot when I was seeing Evelyn off. Right after she left, it came out of nowhere and tried to hit me."

    "Can you describe it?" Derek asked, and Evelyn looked at Derek, wondering if he was thinking Sandra was behind it.

    She knew that Sandra was bad, but she also didn''t believe that Sandra was capable of such cold-blooded murder. It was one thing for Sandra to want her and Michael dead, but why would Sandra want to run down Rayna? "Sure," Rayna said and then went on to describe the car.

    Evelyn''s hand covered her mouth as she exchanged a nce with Derek, horror dawning in her eyes. "Sandra''s car," she whispered, the weight of realization sinking in. "Are you sure?" Rayna asked, her voice rising, a mix of shock and anger brewing in her tone.

    "Yes, I''m sure," Evelyn replied, feeling a shiver run down her spine at the thought that Sandra had intended to harm Rayna.

    "I guess that exins why she didn''t take her car home," Derek said thoughtfully.

    Before Evelyn or Derek could say anything else, Rayna''s voice sharpened with a hint of cold fury. "Thank you for letting me know." And with that, the call abruptly ended. Derek frowned, sensing the storm brewing. "We should have warned her to stay calm... She''s likely going to do something rash now."

    Evelyn nodded, still shaken. "I just can''t believe Sandra would go this far. What do we do now?"

    Derek''s gaze softened as he spared her a nce, "First, we stick to the n. But after tonight, I''m keeping you away from all of this.

    I''m going to put an end to this once and for all," He said as he reached for her hand again, squeezing it forfort, his expression fierce with a mixture of love and protectiveness.

 Chapter 176

    After Eric''s phone call with Derek and Evelyn in the garage, he stood there, staring into space with a cold knot in his chest as he wondered how ire was going to feel about Sandra being arrested. Ever since thest meeting at Evelyn''s ce, ire had been a shadow of herself, and she hardly said a word or smiled anymore.

    She was always staring into the distance, and he knew all of this was affecting her more than she was letting on.

    As much as he knew that this was the right course of action to take, he was worried about the effect all of this would have on ire and their marriage.

    Eric sighed deeply as he returned to the bedroom to join ire, who was already in bed. As he climbed back into bed, ire shifted beside him and turned to face him, her eyes wide and worried in the soft glow of the bedsidemp. "Is Evelyn okay?" she asked softly, her voiceced with a tremor of anxiety.

    Eric forced a reassuring smile, though his eyes betrayed his own unease. "Yes, everything is fine. They are handling it. You don''t need to worry..."

    "How can you ask me not to worry? If the situation was reversed, and it was Evelyn doing all that Sandra''s been doing, wouldn''t you be worried? Wouldn''t you be anxious every moment?" ire asked, her brow creased with frustration as she sat up to face him.

    Eric sighed, reaching over to touch her hand, but she pulled away, folding her arms tightly across her chest. "I understand, ire. I really do."

    "No, you don''t. Don''t say you do when you don''t." Her voice was firm and edged with anger that stung.

    "ire..."

    "No one understands how I feel, Eric. You can''t possibly understand how I feel about this as a mother," Her gaze dropped to theforter as she took a shaky breath. "Maybe it''s best we just... go to sleep. There''s nothing left to say," she said, and without waiting for him to say anything, shey back on her side and turned her back to him.

    Eric hesitated, watching her for a moment before relenting. He knew her well enough to know she was done talking. He wished there was something he could do, but he didn''t know what or how.

    He flicked off the light at his side of the bed, plunging the room into darkness. He felt the bed shift as ire rolled further away from him. Hey still, listening to the rise and fall of her breathing until he felt it even out, signaling she was asleep- or so he thought. After several minutes, he fell asleep, and immediately, ire slipped out from under the covers quietly.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    She walked stealthily across the room and slipped out the door, closing it softly behind her as she made her way to Sandra''s bedroom.

    No matter what the situation was, Sandra was her daughter, and

    she owed it to herself and to Sandra to try to rescue her from herself.

    Down the hall, Sandra paced around her room, unable to go to sleep because she was still too anxious about what had happened earlier. She was also anxious to hear from the hitman about Evelyn. She needed to put an end to everything once and for all.

    When she heard the soft sound of footsteps outside her door, followed by a soft knock, she quickly jumped onto the bed and closed her eyes, pulling the covers up around her shoulders.

    When there was no response, the door creaked open, and ire stepped inside, her silhouette framed in the faint light from the hallway which she had turned on.

    She made her way over to the bed, her movements careful, as if she didn''t want to wake her daughter. Sitting on the edge, she gently brushed a few strands of hair away from Sandra''s face, tucking them behind her ear.

    She gazed down, a single tear slipping down her cheek,nding softly on Sandra''s arm.

    Sandra''s eyes fluttered open, feigning drowsiness. But when she saw her mother''s face streaked with silent tears, she sat up, rmed. "Mom? What''s wrong?"

    ire''s lips parted, but for a moment, no words came. She swallowed, her voice a fragile whisper. "Sandra... you''re breaking my heart. Again and again. My heart... it''s shattered."

    "Me? What are you talking about? What did I do?" She asked in confusion, wondering if perhaps her mother knew about what she had done.

    "Evelyn told me about your conversation. You told her the reason you hated her..."

    Sandra''s face contorted with a scowl. "Is that why you''re here?

    Because of Evelyn?" She scoffed, her tone sharp. "You''re crying over her? In the middle of the night?"

    ire''s shoulders slumped as she looked away, the pain in her gaze deepening. "It''s not just about Evelyn, Sandra. It''s about you. The things you''ve said, the way you''ve behaved... it''s tearing me apart."

    Sandra''s expression twisted with bitterness. "So you''re here to take her side, then, as usual. You are always siding with Evelyn.

    What kind of a mother are you? Why can''t you be like other stepmoms?"

    ire shook her head slowly, struggling to maintain herposure. "Sandra, you''re wrong. I''m here because I care about you more than you can understand. But this... this hatred you have

    - its consuming you. It''s not Evelyn''s fault."

    Sandra red at her, crossing her arms defiantly. "Then it is your fault. Why don''t you ever take my side? Can''t you see that I''m doing all of this for us? I want us to have a better life. I want to be the one Dad is proud of. I want to inherit the family magazine. But you-" Her voice cracked, and she forced herself to stayposed. "You don''t seem to care. You re content with whatever scraps you''re given. Why aren''t you ambitious? Why don''t you want more?"

    ire looked at her daughter, her eyes filling with sadness. "Do you even remember your father? I mean, your biological father?"

    Sandra blinked, taken aback. "Why are you bringing that up?" She asked with a scowl.

    "Because""" ire replied, her voice barely a whisper, "I see so much of him in you. The ambition, the need to win at all costs... the greed." She paused, her hand trembling as she ced it on Sandra''s shoulder. "I don''t want you to end up like him. You seem to be headed there already."

    Before Sandra could respond, her phone rang, the glow from the screen casting shadows on her face. ire''s eyes darted to the phone, and before Sandra could grab it, ire snatched it up.

    "Mom! Give it back!" Sandra lunged at her, desperation ring in her eyes. She couldn''t let her mother take the call or find out what she was up to.

    But ire held the phone firmly, her knuckles white as Sandra''s fingers clutched her wrist, trying to wrench it free. The moment she grabbed the phone, Sandra shoved her mother harder than she intended.

    ire stumbled backward, her eyes widening in surprise as she lost her bnce. With a sickening thud, her head hit the floor.

    Time seemed to stop.

    Sandra froze, her gaze locked on her mother''s still form. Blood trickled from a small gash on ire''s temple, pooling on the carpet; shock and horror twisted Sandra''s features. Then, as reality set in, she let out a bloodcurdling scream.

    Eric, startled awake by the piercing cry, threw off the covers and got off the bed. He raced down the hallway when he didn''t see ire on the bed.

    As he reached Sandra''s bedroom, the sight that greeted him stopped him in his tracks: irey on the floor, her face pale and motionless, a dark red stain spreading beneath her head.

    "Sandra""" he choked out, his voice barely audible. "What... what did you do?"

    Sandra stumbled back, her hands shaking, eyes wide with terror as she babbled incoherently. Eric pushed past her, dropping to his knees beside ire, and pressed his fingers urgently against her neck. Relief flooded him as he found a faint, steady pulse. "Honey, hold on," he murmured, his voice cracking. He fumbled for his phone, dialing emergency services, his hands shaking as he ryed their address.

    His gaze drifted to Sandra, who stood frozen, watching him with wide, tear-filled eyes as paramedics arrived and carefully lifted ire onto a stretcher.

    As they wheeled her away, Sandra''s legs gave out beneath her, and she sank to the floor, Evelyn forgotten as silent tears streamed down her face.

    Eric turned to her, his own face a mixture of anguish and anger, struggling to understand what had just happened.

    But all Sandra could do was stare, numb with shock and disbelief, as the weight of her actions bore down on her, suffocating her under its relentless grip.

 Chapter 177

    Rayna''s hands tightened around the steering wheel as she drove to the Quinns'' house, her mind racing with an unstoppable rage.

    The thought of confronting Sandra made her pulse quicken, and she pictured the countless ways she''d transfer her frustration and anger onto her. She couldn''t let Sandra get away with what she had almost done to her and what she did to Ethan.

    As far as she was concerned, this had nothing to do with Evelyn.

    This had been a personal attack on her, and she was going to handle it personally and not wait for Evelyn and Derek to punish Sandra.

    She didn''t have the patience to wait like they did to handle Sandra.

    She wasn''t going to wait until morning, either. She didn''t care that it waste in the night. She was going to barge in there and give Sandra the beating of her life instead of waiting with a stomach coiled with dread while Ethan was being operated on.

    After she was done with Sandra, Derek and Evelyn could have her arrested and taken to prison, looking like an ident victim for all she cared.

    But as she neared the Quinn house, she spotted something unexpected: an ambnce parked at the curb, its lights shing against the night, illuminating the manicuredwn in bursts of red and blue.

    Paramedics were loading a stretcher into the vehicle, and Eric was following closely with a worried expression on his face.

    Rayna strained to see who it was. Her stomach dropped as the paramedics closed the doors behind Eric, and the ambnce pulled away from the house, sirens ring.

    Raynas grip ckened on the wheel, her anger momentarily muted by confusion. What was going on? Who was in that ambnce? And why was Sandra''s car not in the driveway? Did she not return to the house?

    Not sure what to do anymore now that she couldn''t confront Sandra, Rayna sat there, unmoving, watching the ambnce grow smaller down the road, her mind churning with unanswered questions.

    She contemted going after the ambnce or calling Evelyn to let her know that something seemed to be wrong at home, but just then, her phone rang.

    Her heart dropped when she saw that it was Melvin, and she quickly picked it up, fearing whatever he was going to say.

    "Ethan is out now," Melvin said, and Rayna let out the breath she had been holding.

    "Is he okay? What did the doctor say? Is he going to be fine?" She asked quickly.

    "Yeah. Although he has not woken up yet, but they said he will be okay," Melvin said, and Rayna nodded, feeling relieved.

    "I will be on my way back now," she said as she quickly reversed the car. She wanted to be with Ethan when he woke up.

    She was going to deal with Sandrater, but for Sandra''s sake, sheContentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    hoped that Evelyn and Derek would get her first. Otherwise, she was going to pull out all the hair on Sandra''s empty head.

    Just as Rayna drove off, the front door of the Quinns house swung open, and Sandra stumbled out of the house.

    Her eyes were red, her face pale, and her hair was disheveled as if she''d just woken from a nightmare. Without shoes or a coat, Sandra dashed barefoot down the driveway with only her phone in hand, and her thoughts locked solely on pursuing the ambnce and making sure that her mother was alright.

    She had not meant to hurt her mother. She could never imagine hurting her mother physically for whatever reason. Her mother was all the family she had, and no matter how ambitious she was, she wanted her mother with her all the way by her side.

    As Sandra hurried down the road barefooted, hoping to catch a cab to go to the hospital, the phone in her hand rang once again, and in a sudden burst of frustration, Sandra threw the phone down, shattering it on the pavement.

    It was that damned phone that had made her mother fall and hurt herself. And for all she knew, her mother could die from bleeding so much.

    She didn''t care about Evelyn, Michael, or anyone else right now. All she wanted was for her mother to be okay.

    Sandra sprinted down the road, her breaths visible in the cold night air as she waved frantically at an approaching cab so she could catch up with the ambnce.

    Once she got into the cab and gave him directions to catch up

    with the ambnce, Sandra sped both hands together as tears ran down her face, and she begged God to save her mother''s life.

    In exchange, she would let go of every grudge she had against Evelyn, and she wouldn''t hurt Michael or Evelyn; instead, she would be the good daughter that her mother wanted her to be.

    Away from there, Derek''s impatience grew with every passing second as he nced at his watch and then back at the hitman, who was bing equally agitated.

    The room was tense, each silence longer than thest as they all waited for the moment Sandra''s phone would finally connect.

    Evelyn, who had been kept in a separate room from Michael because she didn''t want to see him, and Derek didn''t want Michael anywhere near her either, sat ready, her hair and makeup meticulously done for the ruse they''d nned.

    Her clothes had been roughened up with red stains like blood on them, and she looked like she had been pped and beaten up.

    She, too, watched the hitman with a frown, wondering why it was taking too long for Sandra to receive her call.

    The hitman tried calling Sandra again, the phone on speaker for everyone to hear. His irritation was evident as he muttered a frustrated curse under his breath. "Still not connecting," he announced, his voice filled with irritation.

    Evelyn''s expression hardened as she heard the news. "This isn''t right," she said, standing up and pacing. "If Sandra isn''t answering, something''s wrong. Maybe she suspects something... or maybe something''s happened. I don''t think she slept off. There''s no way she could have slept off after what she did to Ethan. And

    especially not when she''s waiting to hear about my abduction."

    Derek looked at her, his own suspicion growing. "Do you think we should try contacting your father? He might know where she is or what she''s up to."

    Without waiting for another suggestion, Evelyn gave him a nod.

    Derek pulled out his phone and dialed Eric''s number. The line rang several times, each ring amplifying the tension in the room. Before Eric finally answered, his voice sounded strained and distracted.

    "Eric?" Derek''s voice was cautious. He could hear muffled sounds in the background, a rustling and beeping that made his stomach twist. "What''s going on? Are you alright? Is everything okay?"

    Eric''s response was grim and tired. "I''m in an ambnce, Derek.

    Taking ire to the hospital... she got hurt by Sandra."

    Derek froze, a chill running through him. "Sandra hurt ire? Her own mother?" he repeated, his tone low with shock.

    Evelyn, standing close by, felt her heart leap to her throat. She snatched the phone from Derek, her face a mix of anger and fear.

    "Dad? What happened? What did Sandra do to Mom?"

    Eric''s voice softened, but it was strained as if he was barely holding himself together. "Evelyn... ire''s in bad shape. She hurt her head."

    Evelyn''s hand tightened around the phone as a surge of fury swept through her. Just how many more people was Sandra going to hurt?

    She couldn''t let Sandra ruin any more lives, Evelyn decided, her

    heartbeat pounding in her ears. "Where are you taking her? I''ming to the hospital," she said firmly, her voiceced with urgency.

    Once her father told her where they were going, she turned to Derek, her gaze fierce. "I don''t care about the n anymore.

    Sandra''s gone too far. She needs to be stopped. Now."

    Derek gave a curt nod. "Agreed. Let''s go." He nced toward the detectives waiting by the door. "This show is over. Some of your men can take Michael and the rest of them away. The rest of you,e with us to the hospital and get Sandra."

 Chapter 178

    They hurried out, tension prickling every nerve as they drove through the quiet streets. Evelyn sat stiffly beside Derek, her thoughts racing with a mixture of fury and dread. She had known Sandra was dangerous, but this... this was monstrous.

    How could she hurt even her own mother? What manner of greed could push her to such an extent?

    The moment they reached the hospital, Evelyn turned to Derek. "I want you to stop me at the entrance before you go find a ce to park," she said, her voice ringing with impatience. Derek gave her a nod.

    From the look on her face, he could tell that she wouldn''t mind jumping out of the car if she had to. "Try not to do anything rash"" he said as he reached for her hand and squeezed it.

    The moment he stopped in front of the hospital, Evelyn threw open the door and went inside.

    When the nurses saw her, they approached her, thinking she was there for treatment because of her makeup and the stains on her clothes, but she quickly shook her head and impatiently exined why she was there.

    Once they pointed her in the direction of the emergency ward, she bolted there.

    As she approached, she spotted her father pacing near the waiting room entrance, looking worn and defeated in his pajamas, and there, crumpled on the floor, was Sandra, sobbing, her face

    streaked with tears and her hair looking disheveled.

    Without a second thought, Evelyn marched over to Sandra, her anger boiling over as she pped her hard across the face, the sharp crack echoing down the hall.

    "You evil bitch!" she hissed, her eyes zing. "How could you?

    How could you be so heartless as to hurt her?" Evelyn roared angrily, unable to stop herself, as she grabbed Sandra''s hair and pulled her up.

    Eric immediately approached them, trying to calm Evelyn, but Evelyn refused to be held down. Sandra sobbed harder, her hands trembling as she held them up defensively. "I didn''t mean to! ! swear, I never wanted to hurt her. It was an ident," Sandra cried, still too distraught to register the fact that Evelyn was the one standing in front of her.

    Evelyn''s eyes shed with disgust as she let go of her. "Why should anyone believe a word you say? You lie and scheme without a second thought. It was one thing toe after me or to manipte others, but hurting Mom? You crossed a line, Sandra, and I swear, I''m not going to let you get away with it."

    Sandra''s face, which was twisted in anguish, suddenly turned resentful when Evelyn referred to ire as her mom. "Who do you think you are to say that? Why are you acting like she''s your mother, Evelyn? You-" Her words faltered as she stared more closely at Evelyn''s face, noticing the makeup on her face for the first time and remembering that Evelyn wasn''t supposed to be there.

    "Why... why do you look like that?" she asked, suspicion dawning in her eyes.

    Evelyn red at her, but before she could answer, Derek stepped into the corridor with two of the detectives behind him.

    Sandra''s expression brightened momentarily at the sight of him as if grasping for a lifeline in the sea of hostility around her. She took a shaky step toward him.

    "Derek, thank God you''re here! You have to help me," she pleaded, reaching out, but he sidestepped her touch, his expression cold and unyielding.

    "I''m not here for you, Sandra," he said firmly, his gaze steely.

    Sandra''s face fell, confusion and desperation shing in her eyes.

    "W-what do you mean?"

    Evelyn let out a hollow, humorlessugh. "Oh, poor Sandra, still clinging to her lies. Derek knows everything. He knows all about your little scheme with Michael."

    Sandra''s eyes widened in shock, her face going pale. She turned to Derek, shaking her head. "Derek, don''t listen to Evelyn. She is trying to twist things. I haven''t done anything wrong! No, please, don''t believe her. I love you. You know me... I would never-"

    "No, Sandra, Evelyn didn''t twist anything. I know everything," he said, and she shook her head desperately as tears dropped from her eyes.

    "No. It''s not true. Whatever you''re thinking is not true. You love me..."

    "No, I don''t. The person I love and have always loved is Evelyn," Derek said, but Sandra shook her head, refusing to believe that.

    "At the reunion you said..."

    "I was referring to Evelyn. She is the only reason I''ve endured yourpany for so long. And just so you know, I''m the father of her child. The one you tried using to shame her," he said, and Sandra staggered back in disbelief.

    "YOU DEMON!" Rayna, who had spotted Derek walk into the hospital while at the coffee vending machine in front of it and had followed him to see what was happening, rushed at Sandra, but before she could get to her, the detectives held her back while she fought and yelled to be let go so she could deal with Sandra.

    Sandra, who was still shaken and reeling from what Derek had said, felt thest blood drain from her face when she saw Rayna and she wondered if Rayna had wanted to attack her because she knew she was behind the ident earlier.

    "I understand how you feel, Ray. But please calm down. We will handle this once and for all," Evelyn promised.

    Eric looked at Sandra, his voice weary yet resolute. "Sandra, I can''t begin to express how disappointed I am. I was holding out hope that you''d change, but seeing what you did to your mom..." He broke off, the words too painful to finish.

    Sandra''s face crumpled, and she took a step back, her breathing in panicked gasps. "Dad, I swear, I didn''t mean to hurt her.

    We were fighting over my phone, and then she fell, Sandra cried, looking at her father and hoping that he would believe her.

    She needed at least one person on her side in the face of so many users. She knew her mother would have saved her. Thinking about what her mother had said before the struggle over her

    phone, Sandra copsed on the floor as it dawned on her that her mother had known about everything and had been trying to warn her.

    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed as she watched Sandra break into a sob that wracked her whole body. "Cut the act, Sandra. It''s over. I was willing to tolerate you for a few more weeks, but after tonight, that''s done. You''re going to pay for what you did - not just for trying to kill me, but for attempting to hurt Rayna with your car and for hurting Mom."

    Hearing Evelyn, her head snapped up and she shook her head slowly, her face pale and eyes wide with rm. "You''re... mistaken.

    I... I didn''t do anything. I didn''t do anything. I was robbed, and my car was stolen..."

    Evelyn scoffed, folding her arms across her chest. "Tell it to the police," Evelyn said, jerking her head to the detectives, who Sandra had not realized were policemen because they were dressed in casual clothes.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    At that moment, the detectives stepped forward, their expressions hard and determined. Realizing the severity of the situation, Sandra stumbled backward, pressing herself behind Eric in a final, desperate attempt for protection. "Dad, please, you have to help me! I didn''t do anything wrong! I didn''t do anything!" She cried desperately.

    Rayna stepped forward, her gaze piercing. "You didn''t do anything wrong?" She shook her head, the contempt clear in her voice. "You ordered a hit on Evelyn and Michael and you attempted to run me over. Don''t pretend to be innocent now."

    Sandra''s face contorted with terror as the detectives moved

    closer. "Rayna... how do you know about Michael?" she whispered, her voice barely audible as her heart beat faster than it had ever beaten her whole life.

    Evelyn''s eyes narrowed. "That should be the least of your worries right now. You have done enough harm already, and the best ce for someone like you is behind bars," Evelyn said, and before Sandra could protest further, the detectives moved to take her by the arms.

    "I just want to see Mom before they take me away! Please, not now. Dad, please help me. Evie, please!" Her cries echoed through the corridor, desperate and wild, as she screamed to be allowed to see her mother onest time.

    But no one listened. Her pleas fell on deaf ears as they led her away, her struggles fading as she disappeared down the hall.

 Chapter 179

    As Evelyn watched them lead Sandra away, her own exhaustion caught up with her. All her fury, all her heartbreak, surged up and then drained out, leaving her feeling hollow.

    She turned to her father, who had stood silently, watching her confront Sandra with a weary sadness in his eyes. He suddenly appeared much older than his age, standing there in his pajamas.

    Without another word, Evelyn stepped forward, wrapping her arms around him and pressing her cheek against his shoulder. Without meaning to, she began to sob, her shoulders shaking, finally letting out the grief she''d held back.

    He embraced her tightly, his own tears slipping silently down his face. They stayed like that, father and daughter, each leaning on the other, trying to piece together what remained after so much hurt and betrayal.

    Nearby, Derek and Rayna exchanged a nce, and with a silent agreement, they left to give the two some privacy.

    They walked together down the hushed hospital hallway toward Ethan''s room, their footsteps muffled on the floor.

    As they approached Ethan''s room, Derek turned to her. "How''s he doing?" he asked after some time, his voice low.

    Rayna sighed, ncing down at her hands before looking back at him. "He''s still unconscious. The doctor said it was because of the anesthesia and the pain relief medication. His arm got hurt, and it will take a while to heal, she said quietly, and from the time of her voice, Derek could tell she was ming herself for it. "It''s not your fault," he assured her quietly.

    "You don''t know that. I was standing there. I just stood there like a fool when I should have run. If only I had moved, he wouldn''t have had to step in," Rayna said, and Derek''s gaze softened.

    "It''s normal for some people to freeze during situations like that,"

    Derek said, but Rayna shook her head.

    "Not me. I''m a fight person, not a flight person. That''s why I just don''t get my reaction," she said, then took a deep breath.

    "Ethan didn''t deserve any of this. As a matter of fact, he shouldn''t have been there in the first ce. Did you... did you have any idea he''d be at the bakery tonight?" Rayna asked, her face etched with worry.

    Derek shook his head, "No, I didn''t. But... I think he changed his mind about leaving and just wanted to see you and talk things through. Maybe he''d had a change of heart."

    She let out a long, quiet sigh. "I just hope he recovers quickly."

    They reached Ethan''s room, and the sight of Ethan so still, with his arm bound in a cast, left a heavy ache in Derek''s chest.

    Rayna went to sit beside Ethan''s bed, taking his hand in hers. She held it gently, her thumb brushing across his knuckles as if to bring him somefort, some reminder that she was there. "I swear, if I''d been given just a few minutes with her, I would have left her with a bruise or two myself," she murmured, a hint of anger creeping into her voice again. Derek rested a hand on her shoulder, giving it aforting squeeze. "Let it go, Ray. Sandra''s fate is no longer in our hands."

    Rayna took a deep breath, nodding. She lifted her gaze to meet his, some of the tension in her shoulders easing as she epted his words.

    "Are you going to stay here with him? Or is Melvining over?" Derek asked, and Rayna nodded.

    "I am" she replied firmly, her gaze returning to Ethan. "Melvin has to stay with Sara in her state since she''s almost due. I''ll stay with him until he wakes up and until he feels better. It only makes sense that I will be here since he wouldn''t be in this condition if it weren''t because of me." Derek nodded. "Well, the minute he wakes up, let me know. And if you need anything, call me, okay? I wille right back," he said, and Rayna nodded.

    He pulled her into a gentle hug, feeling her shoulders rx against him before he let her go. "Try not to me yourself for this," he said, and she offered him a faint smile of gratitude. Her eyes remained shadowed with worry as she returned her attention to Ethan. As Derek made his way back down the corridor, he found Evelyn waiting alone in the hall. She looked up when she saw him, her expression both weary and relieved. Without a word, he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her, letting her melt into his embrace.

    "It''s over, Eve. You''re safe now," he murmured into her hair. "And don''t worry. Everything''s going to be okay. Your mother''s strong, and she''ll pull through this." Evelyn pulled back just slightly, her wet eyes searching his face. "I hope so. How''s Ethan?"

    "He will be fine," Derek said, and then he looked around for her father. "Did your dad leave already?" he asked, changing the subject.

    "He went to the restroom"" she said, and he nodded as he nced at his watch, thete hour showing in the quiet of the hospital.

    "It''s already past midnight, love. You need to rest." Evelyn shook her head before he could finish.

    "I just... I can''t possibly just leave..."

    "Yes, you can. There''s nothing more you can do here tonight apart from being sad and worried. You should get some rest. You can check on her tomorrow."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    "But-" Her protest was faint but held so much weight. "I can''t just... I can''t leave her. This happened because of me."

    "No, it didn''t. What is it with you all taking the me for what Sandra did? This happened because Sandra is-" he stopped himself, softening his tone as he brushed a strand of hair from her face. "This happened because Sandra made her choices, not because of you. You''ve done everything you could. Please,e with me, or I''ll carry you out of here on my shoulders if I have to." The determination in his voice left her with little room to argue, and she raised a brow, "Are you bragging about your fitness right now?" She tried to joke.

    "Yes, I am, he smiled, knowing she was trying to lighten the mood.

    She smiled, though she cast onest look down the corridor where her father had disappeared. "But I don''t want to leave my dad alone here. He''s so devastated, Derek. I''ve never seen him look so sad or old," she said as he nodded.

    "I understand. But I''m sure he will understand, and he''d want you to rest in your state." Derek''s voice softened, and Evelyn''s father returned as if on cue; his expression softened when he saw them.

    Derek met the older man''s gaze. "I need to get Evelyn home. She needs to freshen up and rest. Today has been a long day," Derek said, and Eric nodded as he looked at Evelyn, who was still covered in her makeup.

    Derek gently added, "We just found out she''s pregnant."

    The news drew a stunned silence from her father before he embraced her tightly, his joy and relief briefly easing the weight of the night. "This is good news, and happy for you two," he murmured, his voice rough with emotion. "Listen to him, Evelyn. You need to take care of yourself. I''ll be fine, and if there''s anything, ''Il call. But go home, okay?"

    "Are you sure you will be fine on your own?" She asked, and when he smiled and gave her a nod, she nodded, her gaze softening as she held him close for onest moment before allowing Derek to lead her away gently.

 Chapter 180

    "Try to rest your head," Derek said to Evelyn as he drove them home.This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    The drive home was quiet, Evelyn resting her head against the window as the city lights blurred by, her body finally giving in to the exhaustion that weighed on her.

    She shut her eyes to sleep, but all she could think about was Sandra. She couldn''t help but wonder if there could have been a better way to handle the situation without letting things escte to the point that people got hurt.

    She didn''t know when they reached the house until Derek opened her door. Then she opened her eyes and climbed out of the car-only for Derek to sweep her up in his arms.

    She gasped,ughing softly in surprise. "What are you doing? I can walk, you know."

    Derek grinned, carrying her toward the door. "I know you can. But I don''t want you to tonight," he said as he carried her inside.

    He carried her up the stairs to their bedroom, setting her gently on the edge of the bed before kneeling in front of her.

    He looked up, eyes warm and steady, as he reached for her hands.

    "Eve... I don''t think I''ve told you enough, but I am incredibly grateful to have you and Samantha in my life. I''m d Sandra''s finally out of the picture, and I''m over the moon that we''re going to be parents again and I get the chance to be with you every step of the way. I promise that you won''t ever have to be alone or feel alone. I will try all within my power to be by you through every pleasure and difort that this phase will bring. I will keep youpany on nights that you can''t sleep and do all I can to make you happy."

    Evelyn felt her heart swell, a soft smile spreading across her face as she listened to him. He continued, "I wanted to propose to you in a couple of weeks after we take care of Sandra; I''m d weve been able to do that now. Since I don''t want to wait for that long anymore. I want us to get married soon- before the baby bump is too obvious so you can wear whatever wedding dress you want."

    Sheughed, shaking her head. "I don''t mind if the bump shows in the dress. What I care about is having my Mom there and Ethan too. We can wait just until they''re both okay."

    Derek smiled, a look of pure affection in his eyes. "I''m good with whatever you want. Now, let''s get you ready for bed, he said as he kissed her t abdomen before straightening up.

    He moved to the bathroom, ran a warm bath for her, and returned to help her undress. The weight of the night melted away under his careful hands as he carried her into the bathroom and gently set her in the tub.

    As she sank into the warm water, Evelyn closed her eyes, feeling, perhaps for the first time in a long time, that things might just be all right.

    While she soaked in the tub, Derek undressed and joined her inside, and they sat in a way that Evelyn had her back to him so that he could massage her neck and shoulders.

    After their bath, Derek toweled her dry and took her back into the bedroom. He made her lie on the bed and gave her a full-body massage.

    Derek smiled when she slept off halfway into the message, and then hey down beside her for a moment to just look at her and admire her serene beauty.

    He took his phone and took a couple of pictures of her face as she slept, and then, after adjusting the nket around her, he stepped

    out of the room to give the detectives a call.

    Away from there, the officers led Sandra out of the police van and into the station. She was calm and lost in thought as she processed all that had happened at the hospital, and she shook her head, unable to make sense of what Derek had said or believe it.

    Evelyn''s child couldn''t be Derek''s. It didn''t make sense. It wasn''t possible. How could she have a child for Derek when he returned to the country a day before her wedding?

    No. It didn''t make sense that she had been to the reunion with Derek, and he had deliberately worn a color that matched Evelyn''s and sat down beside her. They had all made a fool of her.

    Derek loved her. That she was sure of; she still remembered how he had looked at her during their first date. He couldn''t possibly have done that just because of Evelyn.

    No, Sandra thought as tears streamed down her face. It didn''t make sense that after all she had done all these years, this was the end for her.

    "That is so unfair," she muttered to herself.

    "Did you say something?" The officer beside her asked, and she looked at him with empty eyes but didn''t respond.

    All her plotting, all her scheming, and there was nothing to show for it. Just like her mother said, she had ended up like her criminal father, while Evelyn would not only take over the family magazine but would also end up with Derek as his wife. "Arhhhhh!" She screamed, pulling at her hair tearfully and startling everyone.

    Michael, who was seated a few feet away, still being booked,

    nced in her direction and watched as she sobbed and pulled her hair.

    He felt a surge of satisfaction watching Sandra unravel, but curiosity held his anger at bay. Something had clearly happened tonight, something serious enough to shake Sandra, and he wondered what it was.

    Michael''s frown deepened. The sight of Sandra''s tears unsettled him- Sandra, who was always so smug, was now a frantic mess.

    He had nned tounch himself at her the moment she walked into the station and make her pay for betraying him, but now his body felt rooted to his seat as he watched her from across the room as she was booked.

    As they were rounded up together to be photographed and for their medical screening, Sandra met his gaze, and something about her slumped figure and empty eyes gave him pause.

    He wanted revenge, yes. Every fiber in his body wanted to charge in and unleash all the anger he''d held onto since he listened to the recording of her giving the hitman instructions to take him out, but a battle raged inside him- something about Sandra''s fragile state made him hesitate.

    He leaned against the wall, watching Sandra, caught between the drive for revenge and an unfamiliar wave of restraint.

    Michael decided then that maybe she was already being punished, and he didn''t have to do anything to her. She wasn''t worth it. She was a mistake he had made, and there was no need to make any more mistakes for her sake.

    He would do his time however long it took since, thankfully, it would only be for embezzlement, and hopefully, his family would forgive and ept him upon his return.

 Chapter 181

    Evelyn woke to the soft press of Derek''s lips trailing along her shoulder, moving up to brush against her cheek. A smile tugged at her lips even before she opened her eyes, warmth spreading through her as she felt his closeness. "Good morning, beautiful"" Derek murmured, his voice caressing her, "I didn''t want to wake you... but you looked too beautiful, and I couldn''t resist kissing you." Evelyn''s eyes fluttered open, her smile widening as she looked up at him. "Mmm, good morning," she greeted with a yawn.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "You slept well, yeah?" Derek asked as he watched her stretchnguidly under the sheets.

    "I think I slept better than I have in weeks. I''d say that massage of yours did wonders."

    Derek chuckled softly, his hand moving to rest on her belly. "d to hear it. But you know, I think this little one deserves a ''good morning, too." He leaned down, pressing a kiss to her stomach, lingering there as if hoping for a response from the life growing inside her. Evelynughed, the sound soft and warm. "I doubt the baby can hear you yet."

    "Don''t care," he replied with a yful glint in his eye. "I''ll talk to our little one every day if I want. They''ll know my voice before they even open their eyes.''

    "

    She watched him, heart swelling with a mixture of joy and awe at his devotion. "Do you have a preference, boy or girl?" she asked, a hint of curiosity dancing in her eyes.

    Derek shook his head, looking at her with unwavering warmth. "All I care about is that it''s ours. Boy or girl, they''ll have the best parents to love them." He nced back up at her with a smile that held unspoken promises. Evelyn reached for his hand,cing her fingers with his. "There''s no doubt about that." After a pause, she asked, "Have you heard anything from the hospital?"

    His face softened with concern. "Yes, actually. Your father called.

    Your mother made it out of surgery, but she''s still unconscious."

    Evelyn sighed, a hint of worry shadowing her expression. "I just hope she wakes up soon." She hesitated, then asked, "And Ethan?"

    Derek shook his head. "No word from Rayna yet. If we haven''t heard, it likely means he''s still resting."

    Evelyn nodded slowly, the morning light casting a gentle glow across her face. "I''ll make breakfast for Dad and Rayna, then take it to the hospital. It''s the least I can do."

    Derek''s

    brow

    furrowed. "You don''t need to exhaust yourself. We could easily order something for them, you know."

    "I want to, D. It''s something I can give them while I can''t be there with them in person," she replied, her voice determined yet gentle.

    With a resigned sigh, Derek smiled and shook his head. "You''re relentless. Fine, but I''m making the breakfast. All you have to do is

    sit back and tell me what to do."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, a smirk ying at her lips. "Can you cook?"

    "I know my way around the kitchen," he replied confidently. "It''s been a while, but I''ll whip something up for you." He leaned in, his face close to hers. "And maybe I''ll even impress you."

    Sheughed, her eyes sparkling. "I''d like to see that."

    Suddenly, a wave of nausea surged through her, catching her off guard. She quickly sat up, pressing a hand to her mouth. Derek''s expression shifted to concern as he followed her to the bathroom, his hand at her back as she knelt over the toilet.

    "Are you okay?" he asked, holding her hair back as she retched.

    She nodded, wiping her mouth once she was finished. "I guess the morning sickness has started. It was hell thest time."

    "Is there something that can be done? Derek asked as he flushed the toilet for her, his eyes scanning her face. "Maybe you need to see a doctor?"

    Evelyn shook her head, giving him a reassuring smile. "It''s just the morning sickness. Ites and goes. I''m fine, D. This is normal."

    She suddenly noticed they were still undressed from the night before, and a blush crept up her cheeks. "Since we are already here, we might as well shower."

    Derek grinned. "Is that your way of saying you want to shower with me?"

    Evelyn giggled, "Not at all. But you''re wee to join if you want to," she said, and he chuckled.

    "We both know I want to," he said, and they showered together, sharing tender moments under the warm water.

    As they both walked out of the bedroom after they were done freshening up, Evelyn looked down the hall. "Why don''t you go ahead? I''ll check on Maya and see how she''s feeling."

    Derek nodded, watching her with quiet admiration. "I''ll get started on making breakfast."

    She made her way to Maya''s room, knocking softly on the door.

    When there was no response, she pushed it open, her gaze shifting toward the faint sound of muffled cryinging from the bathroom. Her heart tightened.

    "Maya?" she called gently, approaching the bathroom door. "Are you okay?" She asked as she knocked on the door.

    The sound of crying abruptly stopped, and she heard the tap being turned on. A few secondster, the door opened, and Maya appeared, her eyes red-rimmed, though she forced a smile. "Yes, I''m fine, Evelyn." Evelyn reached out, taking Maya''s hand and guiding her to sit on the edge of the bed. "No, you''re not. Why were you crying? Did something happen?" she asked softly, her eyes full of concern.

    Maya shook her head, averting her gaze. "I''m okay, really."

    "Then were those tears of joy? I doubt that. Maya," Evelyn said firmly, her tone gentle but insistent, "I know you like to keep things

    to yourself, but you''re part of this family. I want to know what''s bothering you. Is it the stomach ache? What did the doctor say?"

    After a long pause, Maya sighed, her shoulders slumping as if the weight of her secret was finally too much to bear. "He said I have an ovarian cyst," she said, unable to hide it from Evelyn. Evelyn''s eyes widened, and without a second thought, she pulled Maya into a warm,forting embrace. "Oh, Maya. I''m so sorry.

    Everything will be okay, I promise."

    Maya''s voice trembled. "I''m so scared. What if I''m unable to have kids? What if they have to take out my ovaries?"

    "I''m sure they won''t. We will do all we can to make sure you''re fine," Evelyn promised.

    Maya looked at Evelyn as though she was hesitating to say something, and Evelyn raised a brow, "Is there something else?"

    "I''ve been thinking since yesterday. I could barely sleep. This made me realize just how fragile life is. I could easily have been diagnosed with cancer or something terminal. As much as I love being here with you, looking after Samantha... this isn''t all I want for myself. I want to have my own family and achieve other things, too. I don''t think I want to keep doing this all my life."

    Evelyn''s heart ached as she listened, but she understood. She nodded slowly, a mixture of sadness and support in her eyes. "Ipletely understand, Maya. As much as I love having you with me, you deserve to live for yourself, to explore, to do what makes you happy. If that means quitting your job, I''ll support you in any way I can. I''m thankful enough that you agreed to move with us when I decided to relocate." Surprised by Evelyn''s easy eptance, Maya looked at her, her brow furrowing. "You''re not mad?"

    "Why should I be when you''ve been here for me and Samantha when we needed you the most? You''re family to us, Maya. I''d hate to see you go, but if that''s what you need, I will help however I can.

    I''ll cover the cost of your treatment, and if you want to stay here, you''re wee to, even if you decide not to work as Samantha''s nanny anymore. And if you choose to return to Hu, I''ll arrange for it, too."

    Maya''s eyes filled with tears, and she managed a shaky smile.

    "Thank you, Evelyn. I don''t even know what to say."

    Evelyn pulled her into another embrace, holding her tightly. "You don''t have to say anything. Just think about what you want, and let me know. I''ll be here, whatever you decide."

    "I have no one to return to in Hu. I will remain here and think about what to do. You and Sam are the only family I have," Maya said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "I''m happy to hear you think of us as family too. Let me know when you decide on what you want to do then," Evelyn said, happy to know Maya would remain with them even if not as Samantha''s

    nanny.

    As she left Maya''s room, Evelyn''s heart felt light. She was proud to support Maya in making choices for herself. Taking a deep breath, she went downstairs to find Derek, feeling a renewed sense of gratitude for the family she was surrounded by.

 Chapter 182

    As Evelyn entered the kitchen, the scent of warm toast filled the air, and she spotted Derek breaking eggs into a bowl, focused as he whisked them. He looked up and smiled as she approached. "Come, sit," he said, holding out the kitchen ind stool for her. "I can do it myself," she replied with a slight chuckle, but Derek shook his head.

    "You don''t have to when I''m here," he said with a gentle smile, guiding her onto the stool.

    Once she settled, she wrinkled her nose as she gazed at the egg, "I don''t want eggs. I don''t think I can send the smell," she said, and Derek nodded. "Noted. I guess we won''t be eating eggs for a while then. I will just make this for your dad and Rayna," he said, and she raised a brow.

    "You can eat them.."

    "Nope. I won''t eat anything you can''t it. It''s called solidarity. If carrying our baby makes you unable to eat it, then I shouldn''t too," he said, and she grinned. "Aww. That''s so sweet. I can''t wait to see how long this solidarity willst," she said, and he chuckled.

    "I guess you don''t know yet how much you or this pregnancy means to me. You''ll find out soon enough," he promised as he set aside the bowl of egg and tried to find something else for them to eat with the toasts.

    "So, how''s Maya doing?" He asked, and Evelyn sighed, ncing at the counter as she thought back on their conversation. "She''s... dealing with a lot. We talked, and she opened up a bit.

    She''s got some health concerns and... she wants to quit."

    "Quit?" Derek asked with a slight frown.

    "Yeah. You didn''t expect her to work as Samantha''s nanny forever, did you?" Evelyn asked, and Derek shook his head.

    "Not exactly. I guess not. It''s just... you know, I just sort of got used to her. I always saw her with Sam and at some point I thought she was Samantha''s mom even though I also thought she looked too young to be the Mom..." "Too young?" Evelyn cut in with augh, "Don''t be fooled by her petite frame. Maya is twenty nine. She''s older than me."

    "She is?" Derek asked, surprised, "Well, I just can''t imagine not having her around. That''s what I''m trying to say. She is always so calm and keeps to herself. And she smiles a lot," he said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "She has grown on you, hasn''t she?" Evelyn asked, and Derek shrugged.

    "I can''t deny that. So, what''s her n? Does she want to go back to her family?" Derek asked, and Evelyn paused, collecting her thoughts.

    "No, she doesn''t. Her mother passed when she was young, and

    she grew up with an abusive stepfather. She became Samantha''s nanny to save up for school and to get away from him. I asked her to stay here if she wants to. She is family to me."

    Derek''s expression softened withpassion. "That''s sad.

    Sounds like she''s been through so much. No one should have to face that alone." After a thoughtful pause, he added, "Well, if it helps, I''d be more than happy to support her with her school. She doesn''t need to worry about saving up anymore." Evelyn''s eyes widened in surprise, and a warm smile broke across her face. "You''d do that?"

    Derek nodded firmly. "You said it yourself. She''s family now.

    Besides, everyone deserves a chance."

    They both turned to the door when they heard Maya''s gasp, and they exchanged a look.

    "Did you want something, Maya?" Evelyn asked gently as she rose to meet her.

    Maya looked down as tears fell from her eyes, "I... came to fix breakfast. I don''t understand how you both can be so kind to me," She paused, struggling to find the right words. "I never really had anyone who truly cared about me this way until I met you. I guess that was why I stayed this long. I... I''m not used to it." Evelyn ced a reassuring hand on Maya''s shoulder. "Well, get used to it because you have us now. You''re not alone anymore."

    Maya offered a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Evelyn. I really don''t know what I''d do without you. Thank you, Derek."

    "Anytime, Maya. And remember, you''re part of this family now," Evelyn said warmly. "Now, how about you take it easy today? You can take the day off. We have things covered here. I''ll bring breakfast to you when we are done." "And if you need anything, just let us know," Derek added as he neatly diced some fruits.

    Maya nodded, wiping away thest traces of her tears as Evelyn gave her a final squeeze on the shoulder before letting her go.

    After Maya left, Evelyn reached out to give Derek''s hand a grateful squeeze. "You really are a kind man, Derek. I''m so lucky to have you," she said, and he chuckled.

    "I''m the one who is lucky to have you. I am almost tempted to reward Michael and Sandra for breaking your heart so I could find you," he said and she giggled as she hit his arm yfully.

    "How can you joke about something like that?" She asked, and he grinned.

    "You''reughing, aren''t you?" He asked, and she sighed.

    "You know, I just realized I never properly thanked you for that day.

    I mean the first day we met..."

    "For the sex?" Derek teased with a chuckle, and she red at him, but color rose in her cheeks.

    Derekughed, brushing off her thanks. "If anyone should be grateful, it''s me. After all, you helped me by crashing into my car and letting me meet the love of my life."

    They shared augh, and Evelyn shook her head, amused. "Alright, you win. Let''s hurry up with breakfast. We need to get to the hospital in time to serve them breakfast." Just then, her phone rang. She nced at the screen and saw Sarah''s name shing.

    "Hello?" Evelyn answered.

    "Hi, Evelyn. I just called to let you know I''m taking Samantha and E to the hospital to visit my brother-inw. Just wanted to make sure it''s alright," Sarah exined. "That''s perfect, Sarah. I was just about to head to the hospital too.

    I''ll meet you there and take Samantha home afterward," Evelyn replied, a smile in her voice.

    Once she hung up, she looked at Derek, who was now cing a te of toast and a small bowl of diced fruits with a ss of orange juice in front of her. "All set. Breakfast is served."

    As they began eating, she nced at him thoughtfully. "D, do you think there''s enough evidence to prosecute Sandra? I mean apart from what she did to my mother and Ethan, can she still be punished for attempting to murder me? We don''t have any hard proof of her plotting to kill me or Michael."

    Derek''s expression grew serious. "Actually, we do have enough. I made an agreement with the hitman. He''s willing to confess to his crime and present the recordings of their conversations, iming them as his own records. In exchange, I''ll ensure his mother and daughter are cared for." Evelyn let out a relieved sigh. "Well, that''s... a huge relief."

    Derek nodded. "We''re going to make sure justice is served."

    As Evelyn took a sip of her orange juice, Derek picked up his phone. "That reminds me, I should inform my parents of the arrest."

    Evelyn continued her breakfast as Derek dialed his father''s number. When his father answered, Derek ced the call on speaker as he shared the news, exining the events from the previous night in detail.

    Evelyn could hear the surprise and shock in his father''s voice, and momentster, his mother joined in, reacting with the same disbelief and relief that Sandra had been locked up.

    "It''s so sad how that poor woman could have a daughter like that.

    I''m

    grateful this will no s will no longer cloud my birthday," his mother said finally.

    "Yeah. We will stop by to see them. We will just meet you both at the hospital," his father added before they hung up the call.

    finished her breakfast, and as she took breakfast up to Maya, Derek prepared and packed the breakfast for her dad and Rayna.

    Evelyn finis

    A short whileter, they headed out. When they arrived at the hospital, they first visited ire''s room. Her father looked up as they entered, his face lighting up at the sight of Evelyn. "How are you, Dad?" she asked, moving closer.

    "I''m holding up. I should be the one asking you how you''re doing," he replied, giving her a warm smile.

    Evelyn handed him one of the food packs. "Here, We brought breakfast. Specially prepared by Derek. How''s Mom doing?"

    Her father sighed, ncing at ire''s still figure in the bed. "The doctors said she''s stable, and she''s supposed to wake up soon.

    But... for some reason, she hasn''t."

    Evelyn''s expression softened. "Maybe... subconsciously, she doesn''t want to face everything Sandra''s done."

    Her father nodded, looking resigned. "Maybe."

    "Thanks for taking good care of her, Derek," Eric said, turning to Derek.

    "It''s my life''s duty," he said, and Evelyn rolled her eyes, but smiled warmly at him.

    As they spoke, Derek''s parents entered, carrying a basket of fresh fruit. They greeted Evelyn''s father and expressed their sympathy for all that had happened.

    "Dad, you should eat" Evelyn urged her father as she opened the food container, but as soon as she caught the scent of eggs and bacon, Evelyn felt a wave of nausea hit her. "Excuse me," she murmured, dashing into the bathroom with Derek close behind.

    As she retched, Derek held her hair back, gently rubbing her back until the wave passed.

    "Are you okay?" he asked, his face etched with concern.

    Evelyn managed a weak smile. "It''s the smell. I really can''t stand it."

    When they returned, Evelyn''s father chuckled softly as he covered the container. "You''re just like your mother. She was the same way when she was pregnant."

    Derek''s parents exchanged surprised nces, and Derek''s mother gasped, her eyes lighting up. "Evelyn, are you pregnant?"

    Evelyn''s cheeks turned pink, but she nodded shyly. Derek''s grin spread wide as he confirmed, "Yes, she is. We found out yesterday."

    Derek''s mother wrapped Evelyn in a warm hug, beaming. "Oh, this is wonderful! We''ll have to n the wedding right away."This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    Evelynughed. "We''ll wait until my mother wakes up. She should be a part of it."

    Derek''s mother nodded, her smile softening. "Of course. Let''s hope she wakes soon."

    Derek''s father ced aforting hand on Evelyn''s shoulder. "You have made me so happy, Evelyn. Anything you want, Evelyn, just say the word. Consider it a nk cheque." Evelyn grinned, feeling the warmth of their love around her. "Thank you. I''ll have to give it some thought."

    She was happy knowing that unlike her first pregnancy, she was surrounded by so much love and she didn''t have to do any of it alone.

 Chapter 183

    Rayna''s head rested beside Ethan''s arm, her cheek nestled on the hospital bed as she slept soundly. Her hand was draped over his, her grip loose but warm, as if even in her sleep, she didn''t want to let him go.

    Ethan blinked slowly, his surroundings blurring into focus. The white walls and faint hum of machines told him where he was, but his gaze settled quickly on Rayna, her peaceful face so close to his that he could almost feel her breath.

    He felt a surge of relief seeing her there, safe and unharmed. But as relief faded, he winced, remembering how he''dnded here. He felt embarrassed that hed gotten hurt like this- it wasn''t exactly the cool, suave impression he''d hoped to make, especially when he''d been trying to protect her. He stayed as still as possible, not wanting to disturb her, and let his thoughts drift back to the moment hed lunged to save her. He could still see it- the car barreling toward her, the realization hitting him that he couldn''t leave things as they were. He''d nned to sail out that night, to bury himself in the vastness of the sea and forget his troubles. But instead, hed ended up at her bakery, unable to ignore the feeling that leaving meant losing her.

    He hadn''t acted his best around her, he knew that. He''d been rough, cold, and distant. But, as he looked at her now, he couldn''t deny it any longer- he loved her. Whether she was Rayna or the crazydy he had met at the club, she was still the Golden Sun he had fallen for. Slowly, he raised his hand, aching to touch her, to reassure himself

    she was real and not a dream. But just as he reached out, Rayna stirred, lifting her head slightly. Ethan dropped his hand back, closing his eyes to feign unconsciousness as she sat up and looked at him.

    She sighed softly when and wrapped her hand around his. "How long do you n to stay unconscious? I need you to wake up and tell me what you were thinking when you did that," she said, her voice was low, half-scolding but filled with concern. "You''re an idiot, you know that? Jumping in to save someone you don''t even like... what were you thinking risking your life that way?" she murmured, brushing her thumb gently over his knuckles. She continued, "Now what am I supposed to Listening to her, Ethan felt a a pang of of guilt,

    He was about to

    to do with you, huh? You messed up your hand. Just what do you expect me to do? How do I face you knowing I''m the reason you''re lying down here?" but he bit back a smile.

    to open his eyes, to say something reassuring, when a sudden, loud sound broke the quiet- a fart.

    Ethan froze, his eyes shut tighter, resisting the urge to react since he didn''t want to embarrass her. It was just the both of them in the room, and if he wasn''t the one who did that, which he knew he wasn''t, then it was Rayna.

    Rayna let out a little groan, rubbing her stomach. "Oh, gosh. That stinks," she muttered to herself, clearly unaware of Ethan''s consciousness. "I really need to use the restroom," she said as the odor filled the room, and rose to go use the toilet. held his breath, a silentugh bubbling inside him despite the pain. He waited until he heard the restroom door close behind

    Ethan

    then cracked his eyes open, ncing around to ensure she was truly gone before letting out a soft chuckle. The absurdity of the moment brought a genuine smile to his face, and he chuckled quietly, wondering how she would have reacted if he had opened his eyes at When he heard familiar voices at the door and saw the room door being opened, he shut his eyes quickly, hoping to escape detection as Derek, Evelyn, and Derek''s parents walked into the room.

    at moment.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "Why is he alone? Where is Ray?" Evelyn wondered, wanting to take out her phone to give Ray a call, but before she could do that, Rayna stepped out of the restroom, her face flushed as she joined them. "Hey! You''re here," she greeted pleasantly.

    "Mom, Dad,"

    Derek said, nodding toward Rayna. "This is Rayna-Evelyn''s best friend. Rayna, my parents," Derek said, and they exchanged pleasantries. Evelyn gave Rayna a warm look. "How are you holding up, Ray?"

    Rayna nced over at Ethan, worry flickering in her eyes. "I''m not going to lie, I''m ridden with guilt. I just want him to wake up... I want him to feel better. It''s bad enough that he hates me, he''s going to hate me even more when he wakes up and sees what happened because he tried to s save me."

    "I doubt that. Don''t be too hard on yourself," Derek said, while Ethan quietly listened to the conversations.

    "Don''t worry, okay? Everything will be okay," Evelyn said with a gentle smile.

    "How is your mom?" Rayna asked curiously, and Evelyn shook her head.

    "She hasn''t regained consciousness yet," Evelyn said sadly and Rayna sighed.

    "I hope Sandra burns in hell. That girl is a devil, Rayna hissed and they all agreed.

    "Has the doctore to check on him this morning? Any reason why he is still unconscious?" Derek asked, moving close to Ethan.

    "The doctor came by earlier... said he''s stable and hopefully he will be awake soon," Rayna said and Derek nodded.

    "Here" Derek said and handed her a food pack. "We brought breakfast for you, "he said, and Rayna epted the food, nodding her thanks.

    As they talked, Melvin and vin and Sarah arrived with little E and Samantha, who immediately ran to embrace her parents and grandparents.

    After the introductions sand We''d love to spend some time with I

    Derek''s mom then turned to Evelyn with a request. "Could we take Samantha with us today?

    pleash her," she

    said, and both Derek and Evelyn exchanged a nce, both nodding. "But Samantha doesn''t t have extra clothes with her," Evelyn pointed out. "Oh, don''t worry about that," Derek''s mom replied with a wave. "We''ll set her up at home and pick up a few more things for her." "Will I get dolls too?" She asked, and they all Iughed. "Don''t you have more than

    "I don''t have any from grandmough dolls already?"

    Stone,"

    "Evelyn asked exasperated.

    Stone," she said, and they allughed once again.

    "You will definitely get as many dolls as you want," Derek''s mom promised, "Now let''s go."

    Samantha bounced excitedly, hugging her mom and dad and waving E goodbye before leaving with her grandparents, a sparkle in her eyes.

    Derek and

    Evelyn escorted them out, and watched them go, waving until they were out of sight. Derek then turned to Evelyn, "Is it just me, or did it look like Ethan''s awake but ying possum?" he whispered, a smirk forming.

    Evelynughed, "I''m p "I''m pretty sure it''s just you. Why would Ethan do something like that seeing how worried Rayna is?"

    Back in Ethan''s room, Melvin took a closer look at Ethan, studying him curiously and wondering why he looked like he was awake and hearing all that was being discussed.

    Sarah turned to Rayna. "We brought breakfast for you both. Make sure you eat something. You look like you could use it."

    Rayna gave a sheepish nod. "Thanks. But I''m not sure I can keep anything down yet. I''m having a bit of an upset stomach."

    "Maybe you should head home to freshen up and rest," Sarah

    suggested gently. "We can keep stay with Ethan."

    Rayna hesitated, her eyes lingering on Ethan''s face. "But I want to be here when he wakes up."

    Sarah smiled knowingly. "Well, if he wakes up and sees you looking this rough, he might faint again. Are you sure you don''t want to go home for a bit?" she asked as she sat on the only avable seat in the room while E moved around the room her eyes glowing with Rayna scoffed, crossing her arms defiantly. "I don''t give a horseshit what he sees or thinks about me. I''ve decided I deserve better and I''ve moved on. I''m only here because he was ridiculous enough to get hurt saving me."

    Melvin whose gaze was still fixed on Ethan, spotted a slight scow! on his supposedly unconscious face. He let out a small chuckle.

    It was obvious Ethan didn''t like what Rayna had just said. Wanting to provoke him some more, he nced at Rayna, "I see you''ve moved on then?"

    Rayna nodded confidently. "Yes, as soon as he''s better, I''m signing up for all the dating apps."

    "Too bad. Ethan''s stubbornness has cost him more than just a few bruises," Sarah murmured.

    Melvin grinned as he noticed Ethan''s faint frown deepening. "Well, we''ll make sure he knows he''s been left in the dust. You do deserve better than a jerk like Ethan. Go ahead and maybe take a little break, and we''ll be here with him. I''ll call you when he decides to wake Rayna nced at Ethan onest time, her resolve softening just a little. "I''ll try to freshen up quickly ande back," Rayna said, and Melvin gestured to Sarah and E to see her off.

    up.''

    Once he was alone with Ethan, he chuckled as he leaned in closer to Ethan, who stilly motionless. "How long are you nning on keeping up the act?" Melvin teased. "She''s gone. You can open your eyes now." Slowly, Ethan cracked one eye open, looking sheepish. "How''d you know I was awake?" He asked weakly.

    Melvin chuckled. "You weren''t exactly subtle. I saw that scowl when she mentioned moving on."

    Ethan scowled. "She''s so mean. How can she say that when I''m in this state?" He muttered.

    a known nce

    Melvin exchanged a

    Ethan red at him, "You''re

    with

    him. "You didn''t exactly treat her well, did you? And it looks like she''s serious about moving on. You lost her. What a shame."

    not helping." tried to

    What did you do thest time I

    I to help?" Melvin asked dryly.

    "Why are you pretending to be unconscious anyway?"

    Ethan sighed, "I guess I don''t even know how to face her. How did I end up here, tangled in this mess?"

    Melvin raised a brow. "You tell me. Why did you jump in like that?"

    Ethan hesitated, ncing down at his bandaged arm. "I didn''t want her to get hurt. I just... I realized I loved her, and I couldn''t stand the thought of

    of seeing her hurt or losing her."

    Melvinughed. "Well, if you really love her, you''d better figure out a way to tell her. Before she actually goes through with this

    ''moving on n."

    Ethan nodded, a wry smile forming on his lips. "Yeah. I have toe up with a n. For now, though... I''m starving. And I need some water."

    With a chuckle, Melvin opened the food pack they had brought with them and handed it over. Ethan dug in gratefully with his good arm, savoring each bite.

    His enjoyment was cut short as the door swung open, and Rayna, who had returned to get her phone which she realized she left behind stepped back in with Evelyn, Derek, Sarah and E.

    Ethan froze with his spoonful of oatmeal midair as Rayna paused, her eyes widening as she spotted him, very much awake and eating.

    "Uh-oh!" Derek eximed with a chuckle, giving Evelyn an I-told-you-so look.

 Chapter 184

    "How long have you been awake?" Rayna asked, her eyes narrowed suspiciously after the door clicked shut behind the others who had convenientlye up with various excuses to leave them alone. "I, uh... woke up when everyone came in," Ethan lied, unable to meet her gaze. There was no way he was admitting he''d been awake long enough to witness her... less-than-graceful moment earlier.

    He didn''t think there was any reason to embarrass her or himself by telling her he had woken up long enough to hear her fart or perceive it.

    "Really?" She folded her arms, unconvinced but hoping that was the truth since she didn''t want to imagine he had been awake before she went to the restroom. He nodded slowly. "Really."

    She stared I at him for a

    "I was...

    a beat, clearly weighing his honesty. Finally, she exhaled. "Why did you pretend to be still unconscious?" embarrassed, he he admitted, his voice softer. "I didn''t exactly n to end up here. It''s not the most heroic look."

    Rayna''s lips parted in disbelief. "Heroic?" Rayna dropped her hands and red at him. "It was stupid. What were you even thinking?"

    "Maybe I wasn''t thinking much. What was I supposed to do?" he shot back, his frustration surfacing. "I saw the caring straight for you. I couldn''t just-stand there." "You could''ve done anything but throw yourself into harm''s way like that. You could''ve shouted at me to move!" She eximed.

    "You

    "You saw the car and didn''t move, Rayna"" he countered, his voice firm but not angry. "At that moment, all I could think about was saving you. That''s it. Nothing else mattered." could have died," she pointed out with a frown.

    You could

    "That would be much better than watching you die," he said with a shrug, trying not to wince as he adjusted his broken arm.

    Her heart skipped a beat at his words, but she refused to let it show. "You''d rather die than watch someone you despise die?"

    "I don''t despise you, Rayna" he said softly, causing butterflies to flutter in her belly at his use of her name, and before he could say more, she shook her head.

    She didn''t want to feel this way about him again. "Well, thanks for saving me even though you didn''t have to. Since you are awake now, I will head out," she said, and Ethan frowned. "Wait. Don''t I go."

    Rayna''s brow furrowed. "Why not?"

    "We should talk, he said, and she shook her head.

    "There''s nothing left to say. And if you''re awake and feeling chatty,

    you clearly don''t need me hovering over you. I''ll be going home to freshen up and get some rest."

    There''s plenty

    to say," he argued, sitting up a little straighter despite the pain that shot through his body.

    "If you woke up when Derek and the others came in, then I''m sure you heard everything I said to Melvin," she said, and he nodded.

    "Yeah. I

    "Good. And that''s

    Pretty mu, you didn''t. And now I don''t want to...

    I insist that there is nothing else to say.

    When I wanted to I

    "I''m sorry for everything. I know I took things a bit too far," he cut in.

    She shook her head. "It''s toote for apologies, Ethan. Do you think if any of those women you went on dates with had been what you wanted, you''d be saying this now? I don''t think so." Her Her words stung more than he''d expected. "That''s not fair," Ethan said with a frown.

    "Maybe not, but we both know it''s the truth." Her voice cracked, betraying her emotions.

    it''s not. I don''t even remember a word that any of them said

    "No, it''s not.

    ''cause I was thinking about you the whole time I was with them," he said, and Rayna shook her head. "You told me to move on, and I am. So, just... focus on getting better. I''m done," she said as she moved closer to the bed to grab her phone, but Ethan reached out with his uninjured hand, his fingers brushing hers. "Rayna, wait."

    Her eyes widened in rm as she stopped him. "Are you crazy? Do you want to hurt yourself more?" She carefully pushed his hand back onto the bed, ring at him.

    "I''m already hurt," he said dryly. "What''s a little more pain?"

    "Don''t be ridiculous," she hissed, pulling her hand free gently.

    "I just want us to talk," " he insisted.

    "I don''t want to talk to you," she snapped, stepping back.

    Ethan stared at her, his expression resolute. "Well, I do," he said stubbornly. "And the least you can do is stick around and help me until I recover. I''m in this bed because of you, remember?" Rayna''s jaw jaw dropped in disbelief. "Excuse me?"

    "I''m j

    just saying, I got t hurt because of you," Ethan pressed, his voice steady.

    "I didn''t ask you to help me," she reminded him angrily.

    "That doesn''t change the fact that I''m here because of you. I can''t bother Melvin and Sarah- not with her condition. That leaves you.

    You''re stuck with me until my arm is healed."

    "I will hire a nurse to assist you," "she said tly.

    "I don''t want a nurse. I want you," he said stubbornly. You could

    move into my ce or take me to yours. Whichever is easier," he said, and she scowled.

    "You''re unbelievable," she muttered, clenching her fists. "Why are you doing this? Why were you therest night in the first ce when you were supposed to return to work?"

    "Last night was supposed to be our first date," he reminded her.

    Despite the flutter in her belly, she shot him a re that could have melted steel. "I don''t have the time for this. And I''m not staying under the same roof with someone as insufferable as you," she said, and Ethan nodded. "I deserve that "Yes, you do.

    0. And just so you know, I know that cereal was yours and not for Sarah," she said, and Ethan groaned.

    "How about we start over? You messed up; I messed up. Let''s forgive each other and start afresh," he suggested, his eyes softening.

    Rayna exhaled slowly, her resolve crumbling slightly. "I''m going home to freshen up and rest," she said, heading for the door. Before she could leave, Ethan called out, "Can you at least feed me first?" He asked with a pitiful expression.

    She turned, ring. "You were doing fine before I got here."

    "It''s harder than it looks," he a

    Rayna stared at him, her admitted, giving her a pitiful look. "I just didn''t want Melvin feeding me, but everything hurts."This text is ? N?velDrama/.Org.

    hands curling into fists. "You''re impossible."

    Ethan smiled. "I''ve been told."

    a hesitated, her irritation warring with her sense of responsibility. He did get hurt saving her, she reminded herself grudgingly. Finally, she sighed and sat down. "Fine."

    Rayna hesitate

    I knew I could count on you," he said, trying not to sound too triumphant.

    ? ?"?

    As she began feeding him, her stomach let out a loud, traitorous growl, and she froze. Her cheeks flushed as Ethan raised an eyebrow.

    "You need to use the restroom again, don''t you?" He asked when he noticed the beads of sweat that coated her brows despite the coolness of the room.

    "I''m fine. I don''t need to she lied, her voice stiff.

    You sure? The

    I said I''m fine," she snapped as she red at him.

    He chuckled softly. "Rayna, I heard you say you had an upset stomach earlier. You should go to the restroom if you need to.

    There''s nothing to be embarrassed about.

    Her face turned a deeper shade of red. "Do you want to eat or talk?

    so I can

    Finish up so

    leave,"

    she snapped.

    Ethan bit back augh as she fed him, her movements jerky and

    rushed. The room was quiet for a

    a while, save for the clink of the spoon against the bowl, until the door swung open, and Melvin poked his head in. "Well, well," Melvin teased, grinning when he saw Rayna feeding Ethan. "Looks like no murder''s beenmitted. Ethan''s still alive. You must be an angel, Ray," Melvin said as he walked in.

    "I''m beginning to think so, too," Rayna said as she rose from her seat.

    "So, have you forgiven him yet? Or are you still nning to move on?" Melvin asked as he watched Rayna set the bowl down. "Melvin," Ethan warned, ring at him.

    Melvin chuckled, shaking his head. "I like some drama."

    "You are still here, right? I am leaving," Rayna said, and Melvin nodded.

    "You''reing back, right? Don''t forget our arrangement," Ethan said, a small smile ying on his lips as he watched her go, but Rayna didn''t say another word to him as she strode out. As she stepped out into the hallway, she sighed inwardly, wondering if she should forgive him easily and give him a chance... or make him sweat a little more.

 Chapter 185

    Evelyn sat beside ire''s bed, holding her hand as she stared at her unconscious face, wondering when she was going to wake up.

    She had convinced her father to go home to freshen up and change his clothes, while Derek had offered to drop him off on his way to the station to see how things were going with Sandra and Michael. Derek intended to pull every string he had to make sure they were prosecuted as soon as possible so that they wouldn''t have to worry about them again.

    "When are you going to wake up, Mom? I need you. Sam needs you, too. I couldn''t bring her in here to see you this way," Evelyn said softly.

    "Please wake up soon. I know you''re worried about Sandra. I''m sure you went into her room because you were very worried. I would do the same if it were Samantha. I''m sorry Sandra hurt you. Your heart must be so broken," Evelyn said as she rubbed her mother''s hand.

    As she sat there, her thoughts drifted to all that had happened.

    She thought about how everything had turned out and how unbelievably happy she was, even though she was still hoping for ire to regain consciousness.

    What she had considered a reckless mistake six years ago turned out to be the best decision of her life. Derek.

    She smiled as her thoughts drifted to him, and she sighed softly.

    She wondered what she could possibly do for a man who already had everything.

    Thinking about him, she sat up when she remembered what he had said about being adopted and not remembering anything about his life before he ended up at the orphanage.

    She had not thought of it all this while, but now that she knew he was the man with whom she was going to share the rest of her life, she had to give more thought to his life, and all that concerned him.

    She remembered that he had said his parents told him that the orphanage home told them his biological parents had died in an ident. Why couldn''t he remember anything before then? She mused.

    Perhaps she could get him to look into it and find out if he had any rtives. Maybe siblings? Even if his parents werete, she didn''t think that was enough reason to forget about them. It wasn''t their fault that they died in an ident and left him. She thought about Samantha and how sad it would be if something happened to her and Samanthapletely forgot about her.

    While she was still lost in her thoughts, a knock sounded on the door, and she turned when Rayna walked in with a grin. "What are you smiling about?" Evelyn asked with a smile as she eyed Rayna, who had returned after freshening up.

    "I''ll tell you. But first, how''s she doing?" Rayna asked as her gaze shifted to ire.

    "Still the same. No change yet," Evelyn said, and Rayna sighed.

    "She doesn''t deserve this," Rayna said, and Evelyn nodded as she rose for Rayna to sit down.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    "You sit down. I sat down for so longst night that I only want to stand or lie on my stomach. I''m scared the size of my butt will reduce if I sit again," she joked, and Evelynughed.

    "Why did you leave Ethan alone? Is someone there with him?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna nodded.

    "Yeah. Melvin and Sarah are still with him. He should miss me a little," she said, and Evelyn raised a brow.

    "Miss you? I thought we agreed that Ethan doesn''t deserve you, and you moved on and were going to register on dating apps?" Evelyn asked dryly, and Rayna giggled.

    "Yeah, right. Like it''s that easy to find good men on dating apps, and I haven''t this whole time. I have multiple ounts already.

    Besides, it''s not that easy to walk away from one''s soulmate. And Ethan is mine. The idiot jumped in front of a moving car to save me, Evie! How many men on those dating apps would do that?" she asked, and even though Evelyn wanted to agree, she held back, wanting to see how determined Rayna was. "You''re a very confused and unstable person. I thought you were mad and feeling guilty that he did that?" Evelyn asked, fighting her amusement.

    "That''s because I was scared that he wasn''t going to wake up.

    Now that he''s up and can talk, I''m more focused on the romantic aspect of it. He could have died, Evie. He saved me, and I''m going

    to marry him," Rayna said with a grin.

    "Oh, God!" Evelyn moaned, "I''m tired of you already," she said, and Rayna giggled.

    "Don''t be. And don''t worry, he doesn''t know I''m touched. I''m ying hard to get, trust me. He''s going to beg me on his knees to marry him. He doesn''t just know I''m married to him and pregnant with his kids already," Rayna said with a grin, and this time Evelynughed. "But Ethan doesn''t deserve you and..." "I don''t deserve him too. So, we are two undeserving soulmates," Rayna cut in, and Evelynughed softly.

    "I know I''ve said it multiple times before, but I''m going to say it again. Rayna, you''re very crazy," Evelyn said, and Raynaughed.

    "Yup. I know," she said with a grin.

    "You weren''t mad that he was pretending to be unconscious?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna rolled her eyes.

    "I was actually too relieved to see he was conscious to be mad that he pretended to be unconscious. Besides, his reason for pretending was sort of cute. He was feeling too embarrassed to face me, Rayna said with a grin.

    "Yeah, he should be. After treating you the way he did, he should be ashamed of himself, Evelyn said, and Rayna eyed her with mock disapproval.

    "Don''t talk about my man like that," Rayna scolded, and Evelyn

    paused for a moment before bursting into a loudugh, and she quickly covered her mouth with her hand, worried that she might disturb ire. "Laugh that way, and your mom might just wake up with a heart attack," Rayna said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "You''re such an idiot, Ray. Fighting me over a man that isn''t even your man yet when I''m defending you as a best friend should," she said with a shake of her head.

    "But he is my man. You''re the only one I''m telling this, okay? You can''t tell Derek that I''m not mad, okay? I want to see Ethan put in the effort to win my heart. He has won it already, no doubt, but I''d like to see what he would do to win me. So, he insisted that I have to take care of him in his state, and of course, I nned on doing that. He said I should decide which is more convenient, between moving in with him or bringing him to my ce. So, I''m going to move in with him," Rayna said, and Evelyn smiled. "Well, I''m happy for you, Ray. As long as you''re happy, I''m happy.

    I''m d he ising around to see that you were right and you are meant for each other," Evelyn said, and Rayna smiled.

    "These men can be sometimes slow to catch up on feelings.

    Thank goodness for men like Derek, who know what they want and go for it with all their might," Rayna said with a wink.

    Evelyn sighed at the mention of Derek and remembered what she had been thinking about before Rayna stepped in.

    "I need your opinion on something," Evelyn said, and Rayna raised a brow.

    "The name of the baby?" She asked me with a grin, and Evelynughed.

    "No, not that. And before you ask, I told Derek about it. My dad and his parents are aware, too," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded with approval.

    "Well done. I love it when good news spreads just as fast as bad news. So, what do you need my opinion on? At this rate, I think I should be charging you for my wise counsel," Rayna joked, and Evelynughed. "Remember that scandal about Derek?"

    "The one Michael and Sandra released and made it seem like it was your doing?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn rolled her eyes.

    "Was there another scandal I don''t know about?" She asked, and Rayna grinned.

    "Just wanted to be sure. Yup. I remember. Why?" Rayna asked, but Evelyn hesitated for a moment.

    "Well, I''m thinking about getting him to find his biological family.."

    "I don''t think his adoptive parents would like that, Evie. That''s a shaky ground you''re stepping on. I mean, they kept his whole adoption issue hush. What makes you think they would want him to reconnect with his biological family?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn sighed.

    "Derek is an adult. He doesn''t exactly need their permission to find his biological roots. Also, finding them doesn''t mean he''s going to stop being Derek Stone. He needs to know his true background and who he really is. He doesn''t like being Derek Stone much. I just want

    to do something nice for him. Besides, thest thing I want is for Sammy to grow up and end up getting married to a cousin she doesn''t know about. These things happen," Evelyn said, and Rayna sighed.

    "Well, you do have a point. But if you''re going to do something like this, I suggest you don''t tell Derek about it. Don''t get his hopes up.

    Just secretly look into it. If you find something good, tell him. If you don''t, bury it and forget you ever looked into it. That way, everyone is happy," Rayna advised, and Evelyn nodded.

    "I can do that, Evelyn said thoughtfully.

    She had the means and the connections based on her job and she could pull it off easily. All she had to do was get the name of the orphanage home from Derek, and she would take it up from there.

 Chapter 186

    Derek sat in the station''s visitor area and waited to see Michael.

    The detectives had told him that Michael had pleaded that he stop over to see him when he came around.

    He didn''t owe Michael a visit, and he didn''t owe him forgiveness.

    But here he was, waiting in this cold, impersonal room.

    As he sat there waiting for Michael to be brought to him, Derek thought about Ethan. The corners of his mouth twitched slightly as he recalled how they had caught Ethan eating after he had been pretending to be unconscious.

    Ethan had looked like a guilty child caught red-handed, and the memory briefly lifted Derek''s mood. He couldn''t believe how silly Ethan was. A quiet chuckle escaped him, but the lightness faded as quickly as it came.

    The sound of shuffling feet snapped Derek out of his thoughts. He looked up, and his amusement vanished entirely. Michael was being led in, dressed in the dull, gray uniform of an inmate. His movements were slow and hesitant, and he carried the weight of his actions like a visible burden. Derek''s jaw tightened as their eyes locked. He held Michael''s gaze until he sat across from him.

    "I was told you wanted to see me" Derek began, his voice cold and t. "Why?"

    There was no greeting, no attempt at civility. Derek didn''t see the point. The betrayal ran too deep. His fists clenched under the table, hidden from view, as he remembered everything Michael had done- not just to Evelyn, but to him. The lies. The schemes. The sheer audacity of trying to destroy his life. He no longer cared about Michael and he was never going to forgive him.

    Despite his im that he had done it all on Sandra''s instruction, Derek believed that a huge part of the idea to dupe him was Michaels, and for that, he couldn''t forgive Michael.

    Michael swallowed hard, his Adam''s apple bobbing nervously.

    "Derek, I''m sorry for everything.."

    "Sorry?" Derek leaned forward slightly, his voice dripping with disdain. "Sorry because you were caught? Or because the whole family is mad at you?" Derek cut in, not wanting to hear him out.

    "No." Michael shook his head, his hands fidgeting on the table.

    "Not because I was caught. I''m d I was caught. I''m actually sort of relieved that everything ended now. Things were beginning to get out of hand with Sandra. I didn''t want to harm anyone," Michael rushed to assure him.

    "Harm anyone?" Derek''sugh was bitter, sharp. "What was your n, Mike? That you''d impregnate Sandra, have me marry her and raise your kids as my own, then let them grow to inherit everything? Or were you nning to get rid of me altogether? Let me guess, you''d marry her yourself after I was conveniently out of the picture and im everything along with your kids?" Michael looked down, his lips pressed tightly together. He didn''t deny it, and that silence spoke louder than any confession.

    "I don''t know what I was thinking..." Michael began, but Derek cut him off.

    "You do know," Derek growled, his voice low and dangerous. "Don''t insult me by pretending otherwise. I know very well that you do, so please don''t give me that excuse."

    Michael exhaled shakily. "The woman I loved wanted you, Derek.

    Not me. She saw you as the prize- your position, your money. It twisted something inside me. I started seeing you as the obstacle, thepetition. I was jealous. Greedy. I became someone I''m ashamed of. I was wrong, Derek. I''m not going to make any excuses. I was a fool. But right now, I''m also heartbroken. My heart is shattered, and I can''t bear being cut off by everyone." Derek sat back, his face expressionless. He let Michael''s words hang in the air but didn''t respond. Finally, Michael looked up, his eyes red-rimmed and pleading.

    "Please, Derek. Forgive me."

    "Forgive you?" Derek''s tone was calm, but the edge was unmistakable. "Forgiveness isn''t going to keep you from going to prison. Youmitted a crime, Mike. You''re going to do the time."

    Michael nodded, his shoulders slumping further. "I know that. And I will. I don''t expect anything else," Michael said, and there was a pause before he added hesitantly, "There is also another reason I wanted to see you."

    The look on Michael''s face made him pause, and his brow furrowed. "What is it?"

    Michael shifted ufortably in his seat for a moment as though what he was about to say was something he''d rather keep to himself.

    "It''s about your adoption," Michael said, and Derek''s eyes

    narrowed, his anger ring again.

    "What about it?" He asked, angry that Michael was bringing that up.

    "I... I looked into it" Michael admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I was trying to find something incriminating about your biological family. Something I could use to..." He trailed off, unable to meet Derek''s re Derek''s eyes widened slightly, shocked by the length Michael had been going to bring him down, and his fists tightened until his knuckles turned white. "You bastard," he hissed, his voice trembling with suppressed rage. Derek rose, ready to leave because he feared he might hit Michael if he remained there for a moment longer.

    "I found something," Michael said quickly, sensing Derek''s breaking point. "Something I think you need to know."

    Derek froze, torn between his instinct to leave and his curiosity. On the one hand, he didn''t want to care about his biological family-and he didn''t want to know anything about them since it would only bring pain and unnecessary hurt to everyone. On the other hand, he wanted to know what Michael found and why it was important enough that Michael would risk provoking him to tell him that. "What is it?" Derek asked, his voice low and guarded.

    Michael took a deep breath. "You have a sister."

    The words hit Derek like a punch to the gut. He stared at Michael,

    unblinking, as if waiting for him to take it back.

    "What?" Derek finally managed, his voice barely audible as he involuntarily sank back into his seat.

    "You have a sister" Michael repeated. "She was a baby when your parents died. The woman who took you to the orphanage... she took your sister with her. If you go to my apartment, you''ll find a sh drive in one of my drawers in my bedroom. It has everything the private investigator uncovered." Derek''s mind raced, a whirlwind of disbelief and questions. He didn''t remember having a sister. "Are you making this up? Because if you are, I''m going to kill you myself before you get the chance to stand before any judge," Derek threatened in a cold voice.

    Michael shook his head. "I''m not," Michael said quickly. "You''ll see for yourself when you get to my ce," he said, and Derek sat still for a moment, processing what he had just heard.

    He had a sister? How was it possible that he had a sister, and he didn''t remember that? Derek mused. He stood abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the floor, but Michael stopped him again before he could walk away.

    "Tell Evelyn I''m sorry. I had no right to be mad that she cheated on me..."

    Derek shook his head in disgust, "Evelyn didn''t cheat on you" Derek said, his voice firm.

    "She has a child with another man..."

    "That child is mine. I told you about thedy who hit my car on my

    way to your house when I just arrived for your wedding, remember?" Derek asked coldly, and Michael nodded.

    "Yes. You said she spent the night..."Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    "Thatdy was Evelyn. She saw you in bed with Sandra, and that was why she was upset and got into that ident. I just didn''t know it was her at the time," Derek said, and Michael''s eyes widened as he realized what had happened. Derek had been on his way to his ce after he had returned to the country but had gotten into an ident, so he had been unable to make it. They had agreed to meet the next day instead. Evelyn didn''t cheat on you. She is nothing like you and Sandra. And I''m going to marry her," Derek said, and without waiting for a response, he walked away.

 Chapter 187

    Alone in the silent house, Maya thought about what Evelyn and Derek had said about her being a part of their family. She sighed softly, feeling grateful for the love they were showing her.

    One of the reasons she had initially wanted to hide it from Evelyn was because a part of her had been scared that Evelyn might fire her if she found out she was ill and would not be able to look after Samantha for some time. She couldn''t help but marvel at how total strangers were being so good and helping her, whereas her stepfather, who had practically raised her, treated her like she was nothing.

    She sighed when her phone buzzed and raised a brow, wondering who could be calling her when she saw it was an unknown contact.

    Although she wasn''t in the mood to talk to anyone, she picked it up, "Hello?" She asked cautiously.

    "Hello, Maya. It''s Liam. Dr Liam,'' he said, and she smiled when she heard his voice.

    "I could tell it was you from your voice even before you spoke""" she said, and Liam paused.

    "Really?" He asked, amused, since he didn''t expect her to know his voice.

    They hardly talked, and the longest he had spoken to her was during herst visit to the hospital. Other than that, they only

    exchanged pleasantries and goodbyes, and that was it.

    "Yes. I guess you took my number from my file. And in case you called to find out if I told Evelyn about you, you don''t have to worry.

    I didn''t," Maya said, and Liam raised a brow.

    "That''s not why I called," he said, and her mouth rounded in a silent

    o. "I wanted to find out how you were doing," Liam went on before she could speak.

    Maya paused, wondering if this was a routine call to his patient or if he was asking her because she was Evelyn''s nanny.

    "Are you there?" Liam asked when she didn''t say anything.

    "Yes. I''m trying to figure out if you want a medical response or a normal response," she said, and Liam chuckled.

    "I''m not sure what you mean by medical or normal response. You were pretty upset when you left my office, and I just wanted to find out if you were feeling better now," Liam said, since she had told him she didn''t n to tell Evelyn and she had also mentioned that, like him, she didn''t have friends, he figured she might need to talk to someone.

    Maya smiled. "I guess I''m fine. I''m sorry I left that way after agreeing to have lunch with you," she said apologetically.

    "You do not owe me any apology. Your reaction was pretty normal, Liam assured her.

    "Thank you for understanding," Maya said quietly.

    The silence between them was awkward and stretched on for a

    while. She wasn''t sure what she could say to him because their conversation was sort of unusual.

    "So, how is work? And how are you enjoying Ludus?" She asked, not knowing what else to say.

    "Work is fine. And I''m not so sure I''m enjoying Ludus. I''m not at work right now. I''m just bored out of my mind at home unpacking my stuff, and I don''t even know where to go if I wanted to," he admitted.

    "You know it would be better if you told Evelyn you''re here, right? I mean, you will have a ce to hang out. You could even be friends with Samantha''s Dad. He is a nice person," Maya advised, and Liam winced, feeling oddly betrayed that Maya approved of Derek, too. "I''m sure he''s nice," Liam murmured since he could tell that Derek was nice, but he just couldn''t imagine being friends with Evelyn''s man.

    "I''m home alone. If you want, we can hang out. That way, you don''t have to be bored," Maya offered.

    Liam grinned, "I was hoping you''d say that," he said, happy to havepany, and sheughed.

    "I will text you my address, and you cane over, or you can just tell me anywhere you''d befortable, and we will meet there," Liam suggested since he knew not everydy would befortable visiting a single man. "You said you were unpacking. I wille to give you a hand. And maybe if we finish early enough, we can find somewhere to eat," Maya said, and Liam smiled.

    "I will text you the address right now," he said before hanging up.

    A short whileter, she arrived at his ce, and Liam opened the door with a wide smile, "Maya! Wee to my ce," he said as he held the door open.

    "Thank you" Maya said as she walked into the spacious apartment.

    Life was full of surprises. She never would have imagined that she would visit Liam this way.

    "Please sit down and make yourselffortable. What can I get you?" Liam asked, and Maya shook her head.

    "Nothing. Let''s get started so we can finish early," she suggested as she set her sling bag on the couch.

    "You just got here. You''re my visitor," Liam pointed out, "we should sit down first," he said, and she nodded and then sat down.

    "Your ce is nice," Maya said as she looked around the ce, which was filled with open boxes.

    "Thanks. So, what can I get you now?" He asked again.

    "I don''t want anything right now. Maybe before I leave. If you don''t mind me asking, why don''t you want to tell Evelyn that you''re here?

    Did you both fight?" She asked, and Liam sighed.

    "It''s embarrassing," he said, unable to say it, and Maya looked at him for a moment.

    "You moved down here because you like her but found out about Derek?" She guessed, and his eyes widened slightly.

    "How did you know that? Did she tell you anything?" Liam asked, and Mayaughed softly.

    "Not exactly. It''s just a logical deduction. You both seemed okay when you came over to the house, but then I came out to see Derek, and you were gone. Next, I see you in your office, and you don''t want Evelyn to know you''re in Ludus," Maya exined, and Liam smiled.

    "You''re very sharp. Well, that was exactly what happened. I just told her how I felt after so long, and then he showed up, and I felt like an idiot, especially after making the move down here," he exined, and instead of the sympathy he expected, Maya pressed her lips together to stop herughter from bubbling over.

    "Are youughing at me?" Liam asked, and Maya''sughter spilled over and she threw back her head andughed loudly.

    Watching herugh, Liam joined in herughter, amused by the way sheughed without inhibition.

    "I''m sorry. I''m so sorry" she said, wiping her eyes as she continued tough, "It''s just so funny. You made such a gant move; I can imagine how proud you must have felt doing this. But you have such poor timing."

    Liam smiled, "Yeah. The timing sucked. And maybe I should have asked instead of assuming," he said with a sigh.

    "Yeah. You should have asked. But maybe this was how it was meant to be. I mean, you being here in Ludus. I believe everything

    happens for a reason. You never can tell what awaits you here," she said, and he shrugged.

    "Maybe. Who knows? Maybe I''m here because of you to be your doctor," he said, and she grinned.

    "Maybe. By the way, I told Evelyn about it," she said, and Liam raised a brow.

    "You changed your mind about not telling her?" Liam asked, and Maya nodded.

    "Yeah. I guess I was worried for nothing. I didn''t want to tell her

    ''cause I was scared she might fire me if she finds out I''m sick and might need surgery, so I wanted to quit instead," Maya exined.

    "Why would you think that? Evelyn thinks of you as her family, and she would never fire you or treat you that way," Liam said, and Maya smiled.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    "Yeah. I guess you re right. I forgot for a moment that not everyone is out to use people," Maya said softly. "Life has taught me to always expect the worst from people. I''d rather be pleasantly shocked when they do something good than be horrified and devastated when they disappoint me," she said, and Liam nodded thoughtfully. "Hmm. That''s deep. I''m d you told her. So, what did she say?" Liam asked, and Maya told him what Evelyn and Derek had said.

    "I hate that he''s such a nice guy," Liam groaned, and Mayaughed.

    "He''s a very nice guy. You know, he became friends with Samantha

    even without knowing she was his daughter," Maya said, and Liam raised a brow.

    "How so?" He asked, and she told him all about how she and Samantha had met Derek the first day they arrived in Ludus and how Evelyn didn''t know Rek was Derek until muchter.

    "... so, I guess I''m telling you this so you can find closure in the fact that those two are meant to be. I should I say those three?" Maya said, and Liam sighed.

    "Thanks for telling me," he said, and she nodded.

    "So, when are you going to tell her you''re here?" Maya asked, and Liam shrugged.

    "When I can bear to see her with him and not feel jealous," he said, and she nodded.

    "That''s fair."

    "So, what do you want to study in school?" He asked, and she shrugged.

    "Psychology," she said, and he raised a brow.

    "Huh? That''s unexpected," he said, and she smiled.

    "I like to study people. What makes them think and behave the way they do," she said with a shrug.

    "You''re more interesting than I thought," Liam said, and Mayaughed.

    "Thanks."

    "So, what about your family? Are they okay with your being so far away from home?" He asked, and she sighed.

    "I don''t have any family," she said with a thoughtful look in her eyes.

    Her stepfather didn''t count as family. And before her mother died, she had told her the truth that she was not her birth mother. She had also told her that she had an older brother who she left at an orphanage home. Maya wasn''t sure what she was supposed to do with the information or how she was going to find a brother she had been too young to know or remember.

    That didn''t exactly count as family since she didn''t know him, and she doubted he knew about her existence, either.

 Chapter 188

    Ethan woke up from a long nap and smiled when he saw Rayna seated beside him, busy with her phone.

    "You''re back," he said, and she looked at him.

    "You''re awake. I was almost beginning to wonder if you were pretending to be unconscious again," she said, and he smiled.

    "I guess Melvin and the others left already?" He asked, and she nodded.

    "Yeah. E was getting cranky, and Sarah also needed to rest," she exined.

    "I understand. What about you? How do you feel now? Your stomach?" He asked, and she red at him, her cheeks flushing a little at the embarrassing question. "I told you I was fine""" she said, and he smiled.

    "Okay. Seeing as you''re not sweating so much anymore, I guess your stomach isn''t under any pressure," he said, and she scowled.

    "It seems you''re pretty determined to annoy me and make things awkward," she observed, and he chuckled.

    "No. I just want to make things normal. Golden Sun tells me everything, remember?" he said softly.

    "Well, I''m Rayna, not Golden Sun," she said, and he shook his head.

    "Can''t you forgive me and put it behind you? I mean, I could have died from this ident, right? No, don''t say anything smart, just listen," he said before she could speak. "I''m just saying life is short. I know I messed up. Everyone says I''m unforgiving, and maybe that''s true..."

    "Maybe? Not, maybe. You''re very unforgiving. Yes, I was wrong to have used you falsely and say all that I said at the club. But I apologized, she said, and Ethan sighed. "Yes, you did. I''m just very sensitive when ites to the issue of sexual harassment," he said, and she sighed.

    "Melvin told me. I''m sorry," Rayna said, and he nodded slowly.

    "I''ve forgiven you. So, will you forgive me too?" He asked, and she shook her head.

    "No. Not so easily..."

    "If you''ll forgive me next week or next month, why not just do it now? We don''t know if we have a year, ten years, or a lifetime to be together. Why waste any of it? When that car ran me down, and Iy there bleeding, unable to move or speak, all I kept asking myself was if that was myst moment and if I had wasted what little time I could have had with you being mad," Ethan said, and Rayna sighed.

    He had a point, but she would have preferred to make him sweat,

    "Well, I forgive you. But that doesn''t mean I''m going to have anything to do with you. If you really think I''m the one for you now, you''re going to have to prove it..."

    "What other way could I prove it than I''ve done by getting in front of that car to protect the woman I love from getting hurt?" He asked, and her heart skipped a beat. "You went on dates with other women. You wanted to exhaust your options," Rayna insisted, still mad about that.

    "They weren''t options. I was trying to convince myself that what

    we had wasn''t so special. I didn''t want to believe that I found something special with someone I was so mad at," he admitted.

    "I want you, Rayna-body, mind, and soul. Your mind is my favorite ce," he said, and her heart fluttered.

    "How am I supposed to y hard to get if you''re using such lines?"

    She groaned, and Ethan chuckled as he reached for her hand.

    "Maybe you''re not supposed to y hard to get. That''s not what got us here, you know? We both know what we want, and that''s why we got along pretty well, he said as he raised her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles.

    "But I already told Evelyn I was going to y hard to get and make you sweat. Can we just pretend whenever any one of them is around? I''ll be too embarrassed for them to know I got back with you so easily after saying I''ve moved on," Rayna said, and Ethanughed.

    "Okay. If that''s what you want, I will y along," he said, quickly letting go of her hand when they heard the door opening.

    "You''re insufferable, you know?" Rayna asked with a scowl, putting up the act as Derek and Evelyn walked in.

    "Rayna, that''s no way to talk to a man who is lying on a hospital bed because he tried to save you," Evelyn scolded, and Rayna raised a brow, surprised at Evelyn for defending Ethan after all she had said earlier. "Hello, Ethan! Thanks for saving Rayna''s life. I''m sorry she has such a shitty and ungrateful attitude," Evelyn said with a sweet smile, surprising Rayna even more.

    "It''s fine. I understand that she''s still mad at me," Ethan said softly.

    "How are you doing, hero?" Derek asked with a teasing grin as he approached the bed.

    "Evie, let''s talk outside," Rayna said, jerking her head to the door as she rose for Derek to sit down.

    Evelyn followed Rayna outside, and the moment they shut the door behind them, Rayna scowled at her, "What was that about? I thought you supported the idea of ying hard to get?" She asked, and Evelyn rolled her eyes.

    "You seem to have forgotten that you told me Ethan was your man and scolded me for talking about him so harshly. Besides, he''s also Derek''s best friend. I''d rather take his side publicly right now than yours. I know you''re both going to make up. I don''t want to be the bad guy when that happens," Evelyn said, and Rayna scowled. "Whatever," she muttered, and Evelyn grinned.

    "If that''s all, can we return inside? My baby and I need to stay close to my man," Evelyn said, and Rayna snorted but smiled as they both returned inside.

    In the room, Derek was making fun of Ethan for his failed attempt to be a superhero.

    As thedies joined them, Derek rose so that Evelyn could sit since that was the only avable seat in the room.

    They all chatted for a while, talking about Michael and Sandra and how they were d that the two of them would get what they deserved now.

    "Isn''t it funny that I''m not involved with either of them, yet I''m the one who ended up getting hurt?" Ethan said, and Derekughed.

    "Maybe that''s why you should have been more actively involved,"

    Derek said with a shrug.

    "Well, you wouldn''t have gotten hurt if you hadn''t been involved with me." Rayna pointed out.

    "That''s true. You got hurt because of Rayna"" Evelyn said, and Rayna scowled at her.

    "I just said that. You didn''t have to repeat it, she muttered, and Evelyn grinned at her.

    After some time, Derek sighed and looked at Ethan, "I wille to see you tomorrow. For now, I need to take my babies home," he said, and Ethan raised a brow.

    "Is Samantha here too?" He asked, wondering why Derek was saying babies instead of baby.

    "No, she''s not. But her younger one is in here," Derek said with a grin as he ced a hand on Evelyn''s abdomen, and Ethan''s eyes widened.

    "Another one?" He asked, and they allughed, "You both waste no time, do you?" He asked, and Evelyn blushed.

    "No, we don''t"" Derek said with a wide smile, "So, you''re going to have to work hard to catch up," he said as he took Evelyn''s hand and helped her up.

    "Well, congrattions to you both. I''m happy for you," Ethan said with a happy smile, and Evelyn smiled at him.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "Thank you," she said, and as Ethan and Rayna watched them leave, Ethan turned to Rayna.

    "We did well, didn''t we?" Ethan asked, and Rayna nodded.

    "I guess," she said with a small smile as he took her hand again.

    "You heard Derek, right? We have to work hard to catch up," he said with a wink, and she giggled.

    "You should focus on getting well first instead of trying to catch up with anything," she said, thinking about everything they had discussed and nned over the phone before realizing their identities.

    "So, I was thinking about something," Ethan said, and Rayna raised a brow.

    "About what?"

    "I still want to get married soon, as I told you from the start. So, how about we bring our dates in here since I can''t go out? We could have nice dinner dates and movie dates right here. And when I''m discharged, we can continue it at the house until I''m strong enough to take you out on proper dates, and then we can get married. Does that work for you?" He asked, and she nodded. "I think it''s perfect," she said with a nod.

 Chapter 189

    Chapter189

    As Derek drove the car home, Evelyn turned in her seat to look at him, "Are you okay?" She asked curiously. "Huh?" He asked as he turned to spare her a nce.

    "You have been sort of distant, or should I say distracted, since you came back earlier? It''s like you''re thinking about something. What''s wrong?" She asked, and he sighed.

    "It''s just something Michael said," he said, and Evelyn frowned.

    "What could Michael have said to make you so worried?" She asked, wondering if it was something about her.

    As if sensing her thoughts, Derek reached out and took her hand,

    "It''s not about you," he assured her, but that didn''t rx her.

    "Then what is it about?" She pressed, wanting to know exactly what it was since Michael was involved.

    "Why don''t I tell you about it when we get home?" Derek suggested, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Alright. Let''s do that" she said and rxed in her seat. It didn''t take long before she dozed off.

    As Derek drove in silence, he thought about the sh drive he had found at Michael''s ce. He couldn''t help wondering what he would find inside when he eventually essed it.

    What was he going to do if it was confirmed that he had a sister?

    Find her? How were his parents going to feel about that?

    Especially his mother, whom he knew was very sensitive to issues regarding his adoption.

    But if indeed he had a sister, he couldn''t just ignore it and pretend that he didn''t, right? It would be nice to know that he had someone who shared the same blood with him.

    But would his sister want to see him? Or would she rather be left alone to her life as she knew it to be? Derek sighed deeply.

    He had never once considered the possibility that he had family somewhere, and now that Michael had brought it up, he couldn''t just shake off the feeling that he had disappointed someone, especially considering the fact that Michael had said she was his younger sister.

    What kind of elder brother forgot his own sister? Regardless of the trauma, how could he have forgotten that he had a baby sister? He could only hope that she was alive and living well wherever she was. It would hurt him to know he had been living infort all these years while his younger sister was not.

    The moment they arrived at their estate and he parked the car in front of the house, Evelyn woke up. She smiled at him, "I can''t believe I dozed off, she said, and he smiled.

    "You have been stressed a lottely. You need to rest every chance you get," Derek said as he got out of the car and went to get her door.

    As he opened the door, Evelyn looked at him and cupped his face in her hands, "I''m not sure what that bastard, Michael, told you, but I don''t like the worry lines I see here. For all you know he lied," she said, tracing the crease on his forehead.

    Derek smiled involuntarily, "You don''t even know what he said yet.

    What if he said you''re the most beautiful woman in the world?"

    Derek asked, and Evelynughed.

    "That would be one of the few truths in his mouth," she said, and when Derek chuckled, she smiled, "But I doubt that would make you frown this way. If anything, it would make you raise your shoulders like a peacock, she said, and heughed again.

    "I know you''re trying to make meugh. Thank you. Let''s go in now, and I''ll tell you what he said, Derek said. Evelyn let him help her out of the car, and together, they made their way inside.

    As they walked into the house, Evelyn looked around, "I don''t think Maya is home," she said, and Derek smiled.

    "How would you know? She might be sleeping," Derek said, and she nced upstairs.

    "I''m not sure. I''ll check in on her to see if she''s in and okay," Evelyn said, and Derek nodded.

    "I will be in the bedroom," he said, and together they climbed the stairs, and while Evelyn went to check on Maya, Derek went into their bedroom.

    The moment Derek walked into the room, he took out the sh drive from his jacket, took it off, and picked up hisptop.

    He sat on the edge of the bed, his heart racing as he connected the sh drive to theptop. It didn''t take too long before it all came up on the screen.

    As he looked at it, Evelyn walked into the bedroom. "I told you.

    Maya isn''t in," she said, and when he didn''t respond and she saw him busy on hisptop, she assumed he was busy with something work rted and proceeded to take off her clothes, not wanting to distract him.

    She turned when she caught his reflection in the mirror and saw his face buried in his hands. "What''s wrong? Did something happen?" she asked, drawing closer to him in her undies, her expression concerned.

    Derek didn''t say a word. He didn''t know what to say now that he had confirmed what Michael had said.

    How could he tell her that all these years, he had not even remembered that he had a younger sister? How could he tell her that he had failed as an older brother, and it took someone like Michael to remind him of his own blood? His sister.

    "Whatever it is, everything will be fine," Evelyn said as she stood in front of him and hugged him to herself, his head resting on her t abdomen.

    Derek wrapped his arms around her and stayed in that position for a while as he thought about what to do now with this information.

    He knew that whatever he did, he had to inform and involve his parents so that their feelings wouldn''t get hurt if they found out what he was up to.

    After a while, Derek pulled back and looked up into her face,

    "Thank you," he murmured softly as he pulled her down so that she could sit beside him on the bed.

    "What is the matter?" She asked softly, searching his eyes.

    Derek turned theptop so that she could see, and Evelyn''s brows pulled together when she saw it was some sort of report on him.

    "Where did you get this?" She asked, looking up at him.

    "Michael''s ce. He told me about it. He had someone investigate my biological family," he exined.

    Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat, and she swallowed. "Why?" She asked, since she could understand her reason for wanting to look into his biological family but not Michael''s.

    She sighed after Derek exined his conversation with Michael, and then she looked back at the screen again.

    She contemted for a moment whether or not to tell him that she had also been nning to help him find his biological family.

    "You are not happy about this?" She asked, watching him closely.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    "How can I be happy to know that I have a younger sister I didn''t even remember all these years?" He asked, and she nodded thoughtfully.

    "I guess it never urred to you that you might have siblings" she said softly, taking his hand.

    "You shouldn''t me yourself for forgetting about her. You were only a kid, and God alone knows what kind of trauma you experienced to havepletely lost your memory. And if I''m being honest, I was going to look into it too," she said, and Derek''s brows pulled together. "You were? Why?" He asked, confused.

    "For several reasons. First, because I''d like to know your name.

    Not Derek Stone. Your given name at birth. You told me how you didn''t like being Derek Stone," she exined softly.

    "I don''t mind that now. As long as I have you and Samantha and the other kids toe, I''m okay," he said, and she smiled.

    "I know that. I''m just exining my reasons, okay? Also, I think your biological parents deserve to be remembered by you. You were about Samantha''s age or a little older when you were adopted, right? Can you imagine Samantha forgetting everything about us?" She asked, and Derek frowned, not liking the thought of it.

    "I guess you have a point. I never thought of it that way," he admitted softly.

    "I think you should remember them for your sake and theirs. And find your sister, too. As a parent, I wouldn''t want my kids to be separated because I''m no more," Evelyn said softly, and Derek sighed. "What if life has been tough on her, and she has been struggling while I''ve been living this way?" He asked, and she smiled.

    "Then she will be happy you found her now. And it''s even possible she''s living well wherever she is, too. However, she might be living now is not your fault, so don''t me yourself..."

    "How can I not? I should have looked into it," Derek said, but Evelyn shook her head. "Let''s not go down that path, love. Let''s focus on the way forward," Evelyn said softly.

    "I''ll discuss this with my Dad. I don''t want to hurt their feelings," he said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Sure. Let me know if you need my help, and I''ll be happy to do it," she said, and he smiled.

    "I''d rather you don''t stress yourself..."

    "A phone call is hardly any stress, Derek. I know people who can get it done really quickly," she said, and he held her gaze for a moment.

    "I''m d you didn''t do this without my knowledge," he said, and she raised a brow.

    "Would you have been mad?" She asked, and he shrugged.

    "Maybe not me. I will always do my best to understand you. But my Mom, on the other hand, is very sensitive, and I don''t want anything that would cause any sort of friction between you two.

    So, I want you to stay out of this, okay? You can give me the contacts you have, and I will make the calls myself," he said, and she nodded.

    "Alright. Sure. That works, too"" she said, and Derek kissed her palm.

    "Now, Mr. Stone, we need to reschedule the date of our interview..."

    "You will have to discuss with my secretary, Ms Quinn," he cut in with a grin and chuckled when she yfully bit his arm.

    "Didn''t you just say I shouldn''t stress myself?" She asked, and he grinned.

    "We can have the interview in here, right here and now," he offered, and she leaned forward and kissed him. "We will do it next week. For now, don''t worry about anything, okay?" She said, and he shook his head.

    "I''m going to worry about you. For instance, you haven''t had lunch," he said, and she giggled.

    "Yeah. You can worry about that. Only worry about me," she said, and they bothughed as he kissed her.

    "Take a nap while I fix you lunch," he said before heading for the door.

    As Derek shut the door behind him, Evelyn sighed contentedly. She pulled his jacket to herself and snuggled against the pillow.

    She sat up when her phone rang and saw it was her father, "Dad..."

    "She''s dead, Evelyn. ire is dead."

 Chapter 190

    Evelyn froze, her father''s words sinking into her like a dagger.

    "What?" Her voice cracked, trembling with disbelief. "No... that can''t be true. Mom can''t die!" She cried, refusing to believe what she was hearing.

    On the other end of the line, her father''s voice was thick with anguish. "Her heart stopped. The doctors... they did all they could."

    Evelyn felt the room tilt around her. Her vision blurred as tears gathered in her eyes. "I-I''ming to the hospital now. I don''t believe you!" she choked out. Without waiting for him to say anything else, she hung up the call and threw her phone on the bed.

    The woman who had stepped into her life after her mother''s passing, who had tried in her own way to be a mother to her and had taken her side over Sandra''s, was gone? It was impossible.

    She refused to ept it.

    Her heart beat very fast, and tears blurred her vision as she quickly began to pull on her just discarded clothes.

    Without waiting to fully zip up her dress, she headed for the door.

    Before she could open it, Derek walked in with a tray of food for her, and he frowned when he saw her fully dressed. "What''s wrong? Where are..."

    "I''m going to the hospital. I have to go to the hospital, she cried as she bolted out of the room.

    Derek frowned as he quickly set down the ss, picked up his car key, and ran after her. "What is going on? Did someone call?" he asked as he walked quickly, trying to catch up with Evelyn, who was running down the stairs.

    "My Mom""" she sobbed, stumbling as she descended the stairs.

    "Dad said she''s.... she''s...... I have to go back to the hospital," she said, refusing to associate the word dead with her stepmother.

    "Let''s go. Come on," he said, trying to match her pace.

    The drive to the hospital felt endless. Evelyn sat in the passenger seat, her knuckles white as she gripped the hem of Derek''s jacket, which she had taken without realizing it. Tears streamed down her face, and she muttered incoherent prayers under her breath. "She can''t be gone," she whispered, her voice breaking. "She can''t be..."

    Derek reached over, cing a steadying hand on her knee. "We''ll get there. Just hold on, okay?"

    When they arrived at the hospital, Evelyn practically sprinted through the corridors, not waiting for Derek.

    Her father stood outside ire''s room, his face pale, his shoulders slumped in defeat as he cried silently.

    "Dad!" Evelyn cried, running to him. "Where is she? Let me see her!"

    Her father''s head jerked up, his face streaked with tears. "Evelyn..." he choked out as he pulled her into a hug, but Evelyn pushed past him, desperate to get to ire. She shoved open the door to the

    room with trembling hands.

    Although Evelyn dreaded the sight of ire lying cold and lifeless, but that didn''t stop her from stepping closer and pulling down the cloth over ire''s lifeless face.

    Her knees threatened to give way beneath her as her gaze fell on ire''s pale face. She looked... serene, as though asleep, but her stillness was unbearable.

    Evelyn pressed a hand to her mouth, her world spinning. ire, gone? It didn''t feel real. She took another shaky step forward, her hand reaching out toward the woman who had always been a quiet, steady presence in her life.

    "You can''t do this to me, Mom. I refuse to lose to you. You can''t leave me! I won''t let you!" Evelyn cried as shey on ire''s lifeless body.

    "What am I supposed to do if you die this way? This is so unfair!

    Are you trying to punish me for something? Why do I have to lose you?" Evelyn cried, unable to hold back her tears as they fell freely.

    The door opened, and Derek and Eric walked in, but neither of them made any move to stop Evelyn, even though they wanted to.

    "I need you, Mom! Please. I need you. Please don''t leave me this way. I will forgive Sandra. I will do whatever you want me to, but please don''t leave me. What am I supposed to tell Samantha? I need you! You can''t just go this way, please," Evelyn cried, sobbing uncontrobly as she prayed for a miracle. Suddenly, a faint sound broke the tension in the room-a rasping breath. Evelyn froze, her heart skipping a beat when she felt the movement.

    "Dad... did you hear that?"

    Her father looked up, startled. "What are you talking about?"

    The sound came again-a shallow, uneven breath. ire''s chest rose faintly under the sheet. Seeing this, Derek hurried out to get the doctor. "Mom!" Evelyn gasped as she jerked back, her grief-stricken face transforming into one of shock.

    !Dad, she''s alive!" Evelyn cried, and her father rushed to the other side of the bed, his hands trembling as he reached for ire.

    "She''s breathing! Dak

    "What... how?" He asked as the door burst open, and a nurse rushed in, followed closely by a doctor. "Step back, please!" the doctor ordered as they surrounded ire''s bed.

    Evelyn and her father moved aside, clinging to each other as the medical team worked.

    Evelyn''s heart pounded as she watched the doctor check ire''s vitals. The nurse hooked her up to a monitor, and the room filled with the faint beep of a heartbeat.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    "She''s stable," the doctor announced after a tense moment. "Her pulse is weak, but it''s there."

    "How... how is this possible?" Evelyn asked, her voice shaky.

    The doctor turned to her with a measured expression. "It was a rare medical situation. I believe she experienced what''s known as Lazarus syndrome."

    Evelyn stared at him, bewildered. "What does that even mean?"

    The doctor adjusted his sses. "As I said, it''s an extremely rare phenomenon where a patient''s heart stops, and after failed resuscitation efforts, they are presumed dead. However, minutes - or even hours-ter, the heart can spontaneously start beating again. It''s caused by a buildup of pressure in the chest during CPR that eventually releases, allowing the heart to restart. In her case, her vital signs were so faint they were undetectable, even to medical equipment..." "So you made a mistake?" Derek asked, clearly upset that his mistake had caused Evelyn so much emotional distress.

    "It''s moreplicated than that," the doctor replied, visibly ufortably. "Her vital signs were nonexistent for over ten minutes, and all attempts to revive her failed. We followed protocol. But then..." He trailed off as he gestured to ire.

    "You thought

    t she was gone. You told me she was gone!" ¨¦ric said, his voice trembling with equal parts relief and disbelief.

    ?"

    "I understand your frustration" the doctor said calmly. "But the important thing is that she''s alive now. We''ll monitor her closely and do everything we can." "You''re

    "Yes," her now to ensure th

    the doctor confirmed. "It''s as miraculous as it is rare. And we''re monitoring her closely now to ensure there are no furtherplications."

    Evelyn''s legs gave out, and she copsed into the chair beside ire''s bed. Tears streamed down her face. Relief and shock warred within her as she clutched her chest. "She''s alive!" she whispered, as though saying it aloud would make it more real. Her father knelt beside her, his face wet with tears. "She''s alive, he echoed, his voice breaking.

    As the nurses adjusted ire''s IV and continued their checks, Evelyn reached for her stepmom''s hand, "Thank you, Mom. Thank you for not leaving me," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. ire''s

    "She''s waking uttered briefly, and Evelyn let out a startled gasp.

    up!" up!

    The doctor stepped closer, checking her reflexes. "Can you hear me?"

    ire''s lips parted slightly, and a faint sound emerged - barely a whisper. Evelyn leaned in, holding her breath as her stepmother''s eyes flickered open.

    "Evie... Sandra..." ire rasped, her voice weak but unmistakable.

    Evelyn burst into tears, gripping ire''s hand tightly. "I''m here. I''m here. You''re going to be fine."

    Her father moved closer, cing a gentle hand on ire''s

    shoulder. "I thought I''d lost you," he said, his voice trembling.

    ire''s gaze moved between them, her expression faintly confused but full of love. "I... I''m still here, she whispered, her words fragile but steady.

    Evelyn nodded, her tears falling freely. "Yes, you are. Thank you.

    Thank you for not leaving me Evelyn cried, her voice shaking. Evelyn exhaled a deep, shuddering breath for the first time in what felt like hours. ire was alive. And no matter how rare or miraculous the exnation, she would hold onto her mother and never let her go.

 Chapter 191

    Sandra sat on the cold, hard floor in the small holding cell. The room was dim, lit by a flickering lightbulb above her head. Shadows stretched along the walls, but none of it mattered.

    Sandra''s world had copsed.

    Her arms wrapped tightly around herself, but no amount of holding could stop the shivers running through her body.

    She pressed her knees to her chest, resting her forehead against them, as tears spilled down her face. Her sobs echoed through the empty cell, raw and jagged, breaking the heavy silence around her.

    Her mind was a storm, filled with the memory of her mother''s voice- so soft, so patient, always trying to correct and guide her, but she never cared to listen.

    "I''m sorry," Sandra whispered, her voice cracking. She pressed her fists against her eyes, as though trying to stop the tears, but they kepting.

    Her chest ached, and the weight of the news felt unbearable. Her mother was gone. Dead. Because of her. Because of her senseless jealousy and greed.

    Now nothing else mattered. Not Derek''s rejection. Not Evelyn''s victory. Nothing mattered. All that was left was a gaping hole in her heart. She had lost the one person she loved the most.

    "It''s my fault," she choked out, shaking her head. "All my fault."

    The images wouldn''t leave her mind. She saw it all again. The argument. Her mother''s voice pleading with her to stop. The fight or the phone. And then-the fall. The sound of her mother hitting the floor. It reyed in her head, over and over like a terrible song she couldn''t escape.

    Sandra grabbed the bars of the cell, leaning her forehead against the cold metal. "Why did I do it?" she cried, her voice breaking.

    "Why couldn''t I just listen to her?"

    Her mother had warned her so many times to stop being selfish.

    To stop chasing things that didn''t matter. But she never cared. She wanted more- more money, more power, more control. And now it had cost her the one person who truly loved her.

    "I didn''t mean to hurt her, she sobbed, shaking her head. "I didn''t mean for this to happen."

    Her hands trembled as she clutched at her chest. Her tears fell faster now, soaking her shirt. "Please, God," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Please bring her back. I''ll change. I''ll do better. I''ll never hurt anyone again. Just... don''t let her be gone."

    She squeezed her eyes shut and sped her hands together, her words tumbling out in a desperate prayer. "I''ll stop being greedy.

    I''ll stop being mean. I''ll stop hurting people. Just let her live.

    Please,

    I''ll be good. I''ll be good. I promise."

    Sandra stayed like that, crying until her throat was raw and her eyes burned. Every part of her ached- her head, her heart, her soul. She thought of all the things she''d done wrong. Every selfish act, every cruel word, every time she ignored her mother''s advice. "If only I I could take it all back," she thought bitterly.

    Just as she was sinking deeper into her sorrow, the sound of footsteps approached her cell. Sandra didn''t look up at first, too consumed by her grief. Then, she heard a voice. "Sandra." §©§Ñ§ß§à§Ô§Ñ.

    She raised her head slowly, her face streaked with tears. It was the officer who had brought her in. He stood on the other side of the bars, his expression unreadable.

    The officer hesitated, then said, "Your mother... she''s alive."

    Sandra froze. For a moment, she thought shed misheard him.

    "What?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

    She''s alive," ''the officer repeated. "We heard from the hospital. She woke up."

    Sandra''s breath caught, and she

    and she stared at him in disbelief. "Alive?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

    The officer nodded. "Yes. The doctor said she''s going to be okay."

    Sandra''s hands flew to her mouth as a loud sob escaped her.

    Relief flooded her body, washing over her like a wave, and tears streamed down her face.

    "She''s alive," she cried, over and over, clutching her chest. "She''s alive."

    The guilt still gnawed at her, but for the first time, there was hope.

    She hadn''t killed her mother. She hadn''t entirely destroyed everything.

    She wiped her face with trembling hands, though the tears kepting. "Thank you, God," she whispered, looking up at the ceiling.

    "Thank you. I''ll make this right. I swear I will."

    As she sat there, clutching her knees and rocking gently, Sandra made a vow- a real one this time. She would beg Evelyn for forgiveness. She would make things right with her mother. She would never let greed or anger rule her again.

    "I''ll be better," she whispered to herself, her voice steady for the first time in hours. "I''ll be better. I promise."

    Away from there, ire''s eyelids fluttered open, and the dim hospital room swam into focus. The soft beeping of monitors echoed around her, reminding her of where she was.

    Her gaze settled on Evelyn, who sat at her bedside, clutching her hand so tightly as if she feared that if she let go ire would die. Evelyn''s eyes, red-rimmed from hours of crying, lit up when ire stirred. Her face broke into a mixture of relief and exhaustion. "How long have I been out?" ire asked weakly, her voice raspy from disuse.

    Evelyn squeezed her hand. "A couple of hours," she said softly.

    "The doctor said it''s most likely a concussion."

    ire''s eyes darted to the wall clock, then to the window. The faint glow of twilight hinted at how much time had passed. "Where is your father?" she asked. "You''ve been here for a while. You need to go home, Evie." Her voice was gentle but firm, her maternal instincts taking over despite her fragile state. Evelyn shook her head vehemently, tears welling up again. "You gave us all a terrible scare, Mom. I''m not leaving your side until you''re out of here," she said, her voice trembling but resolute.

    A small smile tugged at the corners of ire''s lips, even though the effort made her head ache. "You don''t have to worry," she said softly. "I don''t n on dying anytime soon."

    "But you wouldn''t wake up!" Evelyn cried, her voice breaking. "Even after the doctors said you were alright, you just.. you wouldn''t wake up."

    ire sighed, the sound heavy with regret and exhaustion. "That wasn''t intentional, she said. Her expression shifted, her brow furrowing in concern. "What about Sandra?" she asked cautiously. She had not seen her since she woke up, and the silence surrounding her was telling.

    Evelyn looked away, her lips tightening as she avoided her mother''s gaze. She hesitated, unsure how to reveal the truth without upsetting ire.

    ire sighed deeply, already suspecting the answer. "She didn''t push me deliberately," she said softly, her voice tinged with sadness. "It was a mistake."

    Evelyn snapped her head back to look at ire, her jaw tightening.

    "It doesn''t matter, Mom. That''s not the only thing she''s done," Evelyn said, her voice low but firm. "She almost killed Rayna. She tried to run her down with her car, but Rayna''s boyfriend was hit instead." ire closed her eyes briefly, as if the weight of Evelyn''s words was too much to bear. When she opened them again, they were filled with sorrow.

    Evelyn noticed her mother''s silence and reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers. "I know you''re sad, Mom, she whispered.

    "I wish I could do something to help Sandra, but she''smitted too many crimes. There''s nothing I can do."

    ire''s voice was calm but resolute as she replied, "I went to her room that night to give her onest chance. I didn''t know she''d done something so terrible to Rayna, too." She paused, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. "I love Sandra, but she should pay for her actions. You don''t have to feel guilty or try to cate me. It''s tragic that it''se to this, but I''d rather see her behind bars than let her be a danger to herself and others."

    Evelyn swallowed hard, her emotions warring inside her. "So... I don''t have to forgive her?" she asked hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I thought you woke up because I promised to forgive her."

    ire turned her head, a faint smile ying on her lips. "Don''t be silly," she said gently. "Why would I want to die because of Sandra?

    I have so much to live for-your father, you, Samantha." She paused and gave Evelyn''s hand a reassuring squeeze. "You''re my daughter too, Evie. Don''t ever forget that."

    Tears spilled down Evelyn''s cheeks as she whispered, "Yes, you''re my mother. And, just so you know... you have one more person to live for."

    ire tilted her head in confusion, then followed Evelyn''s gaze to her stomach. Her eyes widened. "You''re pregnant?"

    Evelyn nodded, biting her lip as fresh tears spilled over.

    "Oh, Evie!" ire eximed, her face breaking into a smile despite her exhaustion. "I''m so happy to hear that!" She reached up weakly to embrace her daughter.

    Evelyn leaned forward, holding her mother close as sobs shook her shoulders. "Thank you, Mom. Thank you foring back to me. I don''t know what I would have done if..." Her voice broke, unable to finish the sentence.

    ire stroked her hair gently. "Shh, it''s alright. I''m here now," she murmured. She pulled back slightly and brushed the tears from Evelyn''s cheeks. "But tell me, how do you feel?"

    Evelyn sniffled and gave a wateryugh. "I feel relieved, Mom. But how do you feel? Are you alright?"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    ire shrugged slightly, wincing as the movement made her headache re. "Apart from this terrible headache, I feel... sad.

    Sad for Sandra. But I know the sadness won''tst forever," she said softly. She paused and looked at Evelyn with a serious expression. "Evie, you should forgive her."

    "But you said I don''t have to," Evelyn reminded her, confused.

    "Forgiveness doesn''t mean she shouldn''t face the consequences of her actions," ire exined. "It''s something you do for yourself. Don''t let hate fill your heart, Evie. It''ll only weigh you down and make you bitter. Learn to live light, my darling."

    "Are you an angel? I''m starting to think so," Evelyn said, and ireughed softly.

    Before she could respond, the door opened, and Eric walked in, carrying a pack of food. Derek followed closely behind him with

    water and a dinner pack for Evelyn too.

    "You''re awake!" Eric eximed, hurrying to ire''s side. He looked at her with a mixture of relief and worry as he set the food aside.

    "How are you feeling?"

    ire smiled faintly. "You look older," she teased softly.

    Eric shook his head, brushing off herment. "I don''t care how I look as long as you re alright. Are you hungry? I wasn''t sure what you would want. I made some porridge and soup," he said, setting the tray down on the bedside table. ire nced at Derek and then at Evelyn. "Take her home, Derek," she said firmly. "She needs to eat and rest."

    Evelyn shook her head. "I''m not leaving-"

    "I''ll be fine, Evelyn," ire interrupted. "I''m not going anywhere. I promise."

    Derek stepped closer and ced a hand on Evelyn''s shoulder.

    "Come on, Evie. You need to take care of yourself, too," he said gently.

    Evelyn hesitated but eventually nodded. As they walked out, her tears began to fall again, and she leaned into Derek.

    "She''s alright now," Derek whispered, holding her close. "She''s going to be okay."

    Evelyn nodded through her tears, her heart finally beginning to lighten.

 Chapter 192

    Evelyn stirred awake, a soft brush of lips trailing along her cheek. Hershes fluttered as she groaned lightly, swatting at the persistent intruder. "Derek," she murmured, her voice thick with sleep, "why are you disturbing my peace?" Derek chuckled, the sound deep and rich. "If it were up to me, I''d let you sleep all day. Maya made breakfast, and she came to fetch us." He ced another kiss on her forehead, his warm breath tickling her skin. Without opening her eyes, Evelyn sighed. "What time is it?"

    "It''s past ten," Derek replied, his tone teasing. "You''ve been out like a light. As much as you need sleep, you need food, too."

    Evelyn groaned and finally cracked her eyes open, squinting against the sunlight streaming through the curtains. "I didn''t realize how exhausted I was," she admitted, her voice soft with lingering sleep.

    Derek watched her, his gaze tender. "You deserved the rest. You''ve been running on fumes for days. Good morning, lover."

    Evelyn stretched, her body protesting the movement

    after so many hours of stillness. Her hand fumbled on the nightstand for her phone. "I need to check on my mom," she said, already unlocking the screen.

    Derek reached out to still her hand. "I already called.

    She''s fine, and so is Ethan. They''re resting."

    Evelyn blinked, her lips parting in surprise. "You called my Dad?"

    "Of course," Derek said with a small smile. "I knew you''d worry. Now, can we get up and eat before Maya startsining that we''re ungrateful?"

    Evelyn hesitated before nodding. "We need to pick up Samantha. She should visit my Mom."

    Derek leaned back, propping himself up on one elbow. "Yeah. Your Mom also asked to see her. But first, you need breakfast. You''re eating for two now, remember?"

    Rolling her eyes yfully at hisment, Evelyn slid out of bed and padded to the bathroom. As she brushed her teeth, Derek''s voice carried from the bedroom, humming some tune she vaguely recognized. It was oddlyforting. When she returned, Derek was waiting, his hand extended toward her. "Shall we?"

    They descended the stairs to find Maya sipping from a

    mug of coffee at the dining table. The table wasden with food - crispy bacon, golden fried eggs, and fresh toast.

    Evelyn''s stomach turned the moment the smell of eggs hit her, and she instinctively wrinkled her nose, turning away quickly.

    Derek noticed immediately. "Ah, sorry about that," he said, rushing to move the offending dishes. "Maya, Evelyn can''t stand eggs or anything fried right now."

    Maya looked up, a frown creasing her brow. "Is something wrong? Are you ill?"

    Evelyn smiled faintly. "I''m okay. Just pregnant."

    Maya''s face lit up, her frown vanishing. "Oh my goodness! Congrattions!" She pped her hands together, her excitement evident. "Samantha''s going to be thrilled-she''s always wanted a sibling!" Evelynughed softly. "Yeah, she''s been asking for one for ages."

    Derek returned to the table, setting down a te of fresh fruit and yogurt for Evelyn. "There you go," he said, squeezing her shoulder lightly.

    "I''m sorry your effort for breakfast is going to waste," Evelyn said apologetically.

    Maya waved it off, "It''s fine. I will pack it up and eat itter."

    As they all sat down, Evelyn nced at Maya, curious.

    "Yesterday, I noticed you weren''t home when we got back earlier in the day. Did you go to the hospital again?" she asked since Maya wasn''t the type to go out much. Maya hesitated, "No... I went to see a friend."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, surprised. "A friend? You?"

    Maya gave a nervousugh. "Yes, Evelyn. I do have friends, you know."

    Evelyn chuckled but decided not to press further.

    "Well, I''m d to hear that. And I''m d you''re making time for yourself. You deserve it."

    Maya nodded, though guilt flickered in her eyes. She couldn''t bring herself to tell Evelyn about Liam.

    "Thanks. I noticed you didn''t return early. I thought Sam wasing back yesterday," she said, and Evelyn sighed.

    "Yeah. We got backtest night. I didn''t want to wake you when we got in. My mom gave us a scare. She was dered dead for a moment but came back to life." Maya''s eyes widened in shock; her mug paused mid-

    air. "What happened? Was she ill?"N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "She wasn''t, not exactly," Evelyn exined. "She had an ident and hit her head. It was... a lot," she said, not wanting to get into the whole Sandra drama. Maya shook her head, her voice trembling slightly.

    "That sounds terrifying. I''m so d she''s alright now.

    Can Ie with you to see her?"

    "Of course," Evelyn said with a small smile. "But we have to stop at Derek''s parents'' home first to get Samantha."

    Maya tilted her head. "I thought she was at E''s ce."

    Evelyn shook her head. "She was, but her grandparents took her yesterday."

    Maya sighed, leaning back in her chair. "I feel so out of the looptely. I guess I''ve been too caught up in my own worries."

    "It''s okay to focus on yourself," Evelyn said gently, and then she turned to Derek, who was silent.

    "What are you thinking?" She asked, and he shrugged.

    "I think we should get you a nutritionist or a dietician," he said, and she rolled her eyes.

    "I don''t need that," she said, and he nodded.

    "You do. As a matter of fact, we all do. What do you think, Maya?" He asked, and she grinned.

    Maya looked from Derek to Evelyn and then back again as she tried to make up her mind, "I think it would be nice to have one," she said, shing Evelyn an apologetic smile, and Derek grinned. "That settles it, babe. The ayes have it," he said, and Evelynughed.

    "We can just ask the domestic staffpany to make sure the chef being sent over is a nutritionist or dietician. I don''t want the house overflowing with strangers," Evelyn said, and Derek nodded.

    "You have a point. Let''s finish up and leave then," he said, and after Evelyn and Derek were done eating, they left to freshen up.

    As they walked into the bedroom,

    Derek turned to Evelyn. "I''m going to

    tell them about it when we get there," he said. At first, Evelyn wanted to ask what he was talking about, but then she realized he was referring to the information about his biological sister.

    "Yeah, you should. The sooner you tell them, the earlier you can start searching for her."

    After freshening up, all three of them got into the car and left for Derek''s family house to pick up Samantha.

    Derek drove the car while Evelyn sat in the passenger seat and Maya sat in the backseat.

    Evelyn observed Derek silently for a while before reaching out and resting her hand on his arm. "You seem a little tense," she said softly, her voice slicing through the silence in the car. Derek nced at her before exhaling deeply. "It''s just...

    I''m not sure how to talk to them about this. They ve always been so supportive, and I don''t want them to feel like I''m ungrateful or that they weren''t enough for me."

    Evelyn gave his arm a reassuring

    squeeze. "You don''t need to worry about that. Just tell them the truth how Michael told you about your sister and that it''s not something. you went looking for yourself. They''ll understand, Derek. And they see that finding her doesn''t take away from how much you love them."

    Derek nced at Evelyn again, this time his features softening into a grateful smile. "You always know what to say."

    "Because I know you," Evelyn replied, smiling back.

    Although Maya did not intend to listen in on their conversation, it drifted to her in the backseat, and she couldn''t help but wonder what they were talking about.

    Was Derek''s sister missing? What did finding her have to do with loving his parents? She mused as she looked out of the window.

    Once again, her thoughts drifted to the brother herte mother had mentioned, and she sighed inwardly, wondering if he had ever thought of her or was making any efforts to find her.

 Chapter 193

    The rest of the drive passed with Derek visibly more at ease, thanks to Evelyn''s words. When they finally pulled into the driveway of his parent''s home, the sight before them brought an instant smile to both their faces. Samantha, d in overalls and wielding a tiny

    watering can, was enthusiastically helping Derek''s mother in the garden.

    The moment Samantha spotted the car, she squealed in delight and abandoned her task, sprinting toward them. "Mommy! Daddy!" she yelled, her arms outstretched.

    "Samantha, wait-" Evelyn began, but it was toote.

    Samantha barreled into her, wrapping her small arms tightly around Evelyn''s waist. The damp soil from Samantha''s hands smeared across Evelyn''s pristine white pants.

    Evelyn groaned yfully, looking down at the brown stains. "Oh, Samantha..."

    Derek chuckled as he stepped closer, lifting Samantha into his arms. "Guess what? I don''t mind a little dirt," he said, touching a tiny smear of soil that adorned the tip of Samantha''s nose with his finger.

    She giggled, "I was helping Grandma! We nted flowers!" Samantha announced proudly, pointing

    toward the garden.

    "I see you''ve been busy," Derek said as he set

    Samantha down. She hurried over to greet Maya, whoughed softly, brushing a stray curl out of Samantha''s face as they chatted.

    "She''s been such a delightfulpanion"" Derek''s mom said, wiping her hands on her apron as she approached them.

    "She''s always full of energy," Derek said with a grin,

    "I''m not sure you''ve met Maya. This is Maya, Samantha''s..." Derek trailed off since he could no longer refer to her as the nanny.

    "Aunt. She is Samantha''s aunt. She has been with me for years and has practically raised Samantha as her own daughter," Evelyn stepped in, and Derek''s mom smiled at Maya.

    "It''s good to meet you, Maya. Let''s head inside and cool off with my freshly prepared lemonade," Derek''s mom suggested, gesturing toward the house.

    Once inside, they settled in the cozy living room, sipping the chilled drinks the housekeeper brought in.

    "Your father is inside. I''ll quickly clean up Sam, and then we will join you after I freshen up," Derek''s mom said and started to leave, but Derek held up a hand.

    "Actually, Mom, could that wait for a moment? I need to talk to you and Dad. We don''t have much time - we need to take Samantha to visit Evelyn''s mom after this."

    His mom looked curious but nodded. "Speaking about Evelyn''s Mom. How is she? I was going to call you, but when you called earlier to say you were bothing, I decided to wait. Rumors of her dying anding back to life have been all over social media," she said, and Evelyn nodded. "It''s true. What happened was a miracle," Evelyn said, and they went ahead to give her the details.

    "I''m d she is alive. It would have been a great loss," Derek''s mom said, and they all agreed.

    "Let me get your father now," she said, and as she disappeared down the hall, Evelyn leaned toward Derek. "I will help Samantha clean up and keep her busy while you talk to them," she whispered. Derek nced at her, gratitude evident in his eyes.

    Leaning in, he gave her a quick kiss. "Thank you."

    Evelyn smiled, holding out her hand for Samantha.

    "Come on, sweetheart. Let''s get you cleaned up."

    When Derek''s parents returned together, Derek introduced Maya to him. Then, they left her in the living room and headed for the study so they could

    speak privately.

    Once they werefortably seated, his father looked at him with curiosity. "What did you want to talk to us about?"

    Derek hesitated for a moment and then cleared his throat. "Yesterday, I stopped by the police station and spoke briefly with Michael," he began. His father nodded, gesturing for him to continue. "Michael told me something. Something...

    unexpected," Derek added.

    "What did he say to you?" His mother asked, sensing it was something important.

    "He looked into the details of my adoption and tried to find dirt on my biological family," Derek said, and his mother''s eyes widened.

    "Is that boy even my nephew?" She asked, unable to believe the extent to which Michael had gone in his craziness.

    "That''s not all," Derek said, and his voice wavered slightly as he exined what Michael had revealed about him having a younger sister and how he had confirmed it after seeing the details on the sh drive.

    His parents exchanged nces, their expressions unreadable as they listened to him. Finally, his mom

    spoke, her tone calm yet firm. "Are you sure this is not another one of his attempts to steal from us?"

    "I understand that Michael can''t be trusted. But it''s not like he brought someone to Derek, iming her to be his sister. It is us who will search for the girl. We can always confirm with a DNA test when we find her," Derek''s father said reasonably, and Derek nodded in agreement.

    "That makes sense. Well, if you have a sister, we should find her," his mother said firmly.

    Derek blinked, taken aback. "You think so?"

    "Of course," she said, reaching for his hand. "Why wouldn''t we? If she''s your family, she''s ours too. Did you think I''d try to stop you from finding her?"

    "I... I wasn''t sure how you''d feel about it. I didn''t want you to think I''m not content with having you or that finding her would change things between us, Derek admitted.

    His mother''s grip on his hand tightened. "You will always be my son, Derek. Nothing will change that.

    Finding your sister doesn''t take away from our family

    it adds to it. And you should know that we would have tried to find her ourselves had we been told about it during your adoption."

    His father nodded in agreement. "We''ll need to be

    careful about it, though. If word gets out, there''ll be no shortage of people trying to take advantage just to get into our family."

    Derek exhaled a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding. "I understand. Thank you - for understanding."

    "You don''t have to thank us for that. Do you think you can handle it yourself, or do you want us to handle it?" His mother asked, and Derek shook his head.

    "I can take care of it. I only wanted your permission to go ahead," he said, and she smiled.

    "You''re such a good son, Derek. Thank you for respecting our feelings," she said, touching his cheeks fondly.

    A momentter, they returned to the living room to join Maya, and they met Evelyn and a cleaned-up Samantha there, too. Evelyn''s questioning gaze met Derek''s, and when he gave her a reassuring nod, she smiled softly, clearly relieved.

    As they prepared to leave, Samantha hopped into the car, chatting excitedly about her adventures with her grandparents while Maya indulged her.

    Derek nced at Evelyn as they drove away. "That went better than I thought it would."

    Evelyn smiled, resting her hand on his arm again.

    "Sometimes, you just have to take the leap. People can surprise you."

    "Says the one who refused to take the leap for six years," he said dryly, and sheughed as she hit his arm.

    "That''s exactly why you should listen to me. I''m speaking now from my wealth of experience," she retorted.

    He chuckled, shaking his head. "You''re right, as always.

    Could you call the people you mentioned? Have them look into this discreetly?"

    "I thought you didn''t want me interfering?" She asked, and he nodded.

    "My Dad raised a valid point. I''d rather no one knows I''m the one involved in this," he exined.

    "Of course. I''m happy to help," Evelyn replied, her voice warm with reassurance.

    When they arrived at the hospital, Samantha''s cheerful chatter filled the hallways until they entered ire''s room.

    Samantha froze, her wide eyes fixed on her grandmother lying in the bed with a bandage on her head.

    "Grandma, what happened to your head?" Samantha asked, her voice small and tears gathering in her eyes as she rushed over to the bedside.

    ire smiled, her hand outstretched. "I had a little ident, sweetheart, but I''m fine now. I missed you so much."

    Samantha climbed onto the bed, her small hand cupping ire''s cheek. "I''ll kiss your boo-boo and make it all better." ireughed softly as Samantha pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Thank you, darling. That already feels much better." Evelyn stood by, her eyes bright with emotion. "You''re looking much better than you did yesterday."

    "I feel better, too," ire admitted. "And I''m ready to go home," she said, giving her husband a pointed look.

    "Not happening. Not until I''m sure you''repletely okay," Eric said firmly, crossing his arms.

    "You''re fussing over nothing," ire argued lightly, though her smile didn''t waver.

    Eric''s expression softened, "I''m not taking any risks."

    "Maya," ire said with a soft smile as her gaze met Maya''s. "It''s good to see you again," she said, her voice

    warm.

    Maya returned the smile, stepping closer to the bed.

    "I''m sorry I came empty-handed. I only found out about this today. And I''m d to see you looking well." "Thank you, Maya,, ire said, her tone sincere.

    Samantha beamed proudly, still perched next to ire on the bed helped Grandma Stone with the flowers today!" she chimed in her mood brightening again.

    "You did, my little gardener," ire said, brushing a hand gently overz Samantha''s hair. "And I can''t wait to see them bloom. Maybe you''ll bring me some flowers when they do?"

    "Yes!" Samantha nodded enthusiastically, her earlier worry forgotten.

    As the lighthearted moment settled over the room, Evelyn approached the bed, her expression soft.

    "Mom, there''s something I wanted to ask you."

    ire tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her gaze.

    "Of course, dear. What''s on your mind?"

    Evelyn hesitated for a moment before speaking.

    "When you''re well enough, I''d like to take you to our home for a while. I think it''d be good for you to have a change of scenery."

    ire''s eyes widened slightly, and then she smiled.

    "That''s a lovely offer, Evie. But are you sure it wouldn''t be too much trouble?"

    "No trouble at all," Evelyn assured her. "It''ll be good for all of us. Besides, Samantha would love to have you close. I would love it, too."

    At the mention of her name, Samantha lit up. "Yes, Grandma! Come stay with us!"

    Eric, still standing with his arms crossed, raised a brow. "And what about me?"

    "You''re wee to stay, too," Derek said, stepping forward.

    Eric smiled. "If my darling is up for it, let''s do that."

    ire chuckled softly, reaching for Eric''s hand. "I think I''d like that very much."

    Evelyn smiled warmly. "Then it''s settled. Once the doctor gives the all-clear, we''ll make the necessary arrangements."

    The conversation shifted to lighter topics, and Samantha''s bubbly energy kept the atmosphere warm.

    After some time, Derek and Evelyn decided it was time to see Ethan, and they left Maya and Samantha with her parents.

    As they both walked out of the room, Derek slid an arm around her shoulders. "She seems to be making a speedy recovery," Derek noted. "Yeah""" Evelyn said with a happy smile.

    "I think she will be as good as new in a week or two," he said, and she nodded. "Yeah. I''m d the head injury wasn''t severe," she said, and then Derek grinned.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    "Me too. It would be nice to have your parents in the house," he said, and then she paused to look at him

    suspiciously when she heard him

    excitement in his voice.

    "Yeah?"

    "Would make the wedding preparations faster. So, maybe we can get married in a month. What do you think?" he asked, and sheughed softly.

    "I should have known that was what you were thinking, she said, her lips curving into a teasing smile.

    "You haven''t answered my question yet," he said, and she grinned.

    "I will when you ask the right way," she said with a giggle and walked away very quickly, leaving Derek tough as he tried to catch up with her.

 Chapter 194

    Ethan stirred in his bed, the rustle of sheets catching Rayna''s attention. She sat in a chair beside him, a novel in her hand, but the moment she saw him move, she was on her feet.

    "You''re awake," she said, her tone more pleasant than she intended. Do you need anything? Water? Your lunch? An extra pillow?" Her words came out in a rush, betraying her concern. Ethan blinked up at her, his lips curving into a sleepy smile. "I''m fine. You''ve been fussing over me all morning. I''m sure that was the reason I was so exhausted. Sit down and rx."

    "I''m not fussing," she retorted as she picked up his hospital-issued tray and inspected it before setting it back down with a frown.

    "They should''ve brought your lunch by now. What are they waiting for?" She asked as she nced at the clock.

    Ethan''s smile widened as he watched her, and then he chuckled, making her raise a brow as she nced at him, "Is something funny?"

    "Yeah."

    She narrowed her eyes. "What''s funny?"

    "I thought you didn''t care and wanted to move on?" Ethan teased.

    "Shut up" she muttered, her cheeks pink.

    "At the club that night, you said I wasn''t your type," he reminded her, and she rolled her eyes.

    "And you said I wasn''t your type either," she shot back.

    "I guess you lied," he said, ignoring her retort.

    "Same way you lied too. And you lied about not liking that cereal and imed it was for Sarah," she said, and he chuckled.

    "I guess we both lied. You''re very much my type," he said, and Rayna turned her back on him, but he didn''t miss the way her lips quirked upward.

    "Are you always this dressed up for hospital visits, or did you dress up specially for me?" Ethan asked, his voice light and teasing as he looked her over and noticed she had changed her clothes.

    She wore a soft,vender blouse that hugged her figure and a pair of dark jeans that looked freshly pressed. Her hair, usually in a casual ponytail, was swept into loose waves that framed her face and she had lipstick on. Rayna ran a hand self-consciously through her hair as she turned to face him. "What do you think?" She asked with a raised brow.

    Ethan chuckled softly. "I think you dressed up for me."

    "Yes, I did. And I had to wait hours for you to wake up and notice," she said with mock disapproval, and heughed.

    "Sorry. It''s the pain relief medication. It''s messing with my system.

    And maybe it''s a result of exhaustion, too. I''m probably getting all the sleep I didn''t get during the duration of our problem," he admitted. "So, you had sleepless nights, huh?" She asked, pleased to hear that.

    "Yes, I did. I had sleepless nights and restless days""" he said as he reached for her hand with his good hand, his fingers brushing hers lightly.

    "That''s good then. Very good actually ''cause you almost drove me crazy with your attitude..."

    "Let''s not talk about that" Ethan cut in as he pulled her closer gently, "let''s talk about us instead, he said, and Rayna''s pulse picked up.

    "What about us," Rayna asked, her voice a little breathless because of the proximity between them and how her chest was pressed against Ethan''s side.

    "I want to kiss you," he said confessed, "Can I?" He asked, and in response, Rayna covered the space between them and kissed him.

    Ethan kissed her back, but before the kiss could progress, the door creaked open, and Rayna immediately pulled away, her cheeks flushing crimson as she stepped back. She smoothed her blouse hurriedly as if topose herself and spun around to face the door.

    Evelyn and Derek stood in the doorway, their expressions a mix of amusement and curiosity. Evelyn arched an eyebrow while Derek smirked and shot Ethan a knowing look.

    "Interrupting something?" Evelyn asked her tone light but with an edge of teasing.

    Rayna cleared her throat, quickly retreating to the corner of the room and grabbing the novel she''d abandoned earlier. "Not at all. I was just... checking on Ethan''sfort. He said he had something in his eyes, and I was trying to get it out." She gestured vaguely toward the bed, avoiding everyone''s gaze. "Of course"" Evelyn said smoothly, but the knowing smile she shared with Derek didn''t go unnoticed by Ethan.

    Ethan still reclined and entirely unbothered by the interruption, grinned up at Evelyn and Derek. "I''m d you''re here. I was about to ask her if she could leave me alone so I could rest. She''s been nagging and nitpicking all day." Rayna whipped her head around to re at him. "Excuse me?"

    Ethan shrugged, "I''ve been begging you all day and trying to get you to talk to me, but you won''t even look at my face. I don''t know what to do anymore. So, maybe you need a break," he said, and Evelyn''s eyes danced between them, her lips twitching as if she were holding back augh.

    "You two are quite the pair," Evelyn said as her eyes lingered on Rayna, taking in her neatly styled hair and carefully applied makeup that was ruined a little because of the lipstick that had been smeared a little from the kissing. Her lips twitched, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Ray, you look nice today. Have a date?"

    "No. I''m still too busy being his personal nurse to have time to myself," She said, scowling at Ethan.

    Evelyn giggled as she turned to Derek, "I really want to act like we didn''t see anything, but Ray keeps making it hard."

    "What do you mean?" Rayna asked, eyeing her, and Derek chuckled.

    "What did you say you were doing when we walked in just now?" Evelyn asked, giving her a pointed look.

    "I was taking something out of his eyes..."

    "Are you sure about that? Because from the lipstick stain on his lips, it looks like you were taking something out of his mouth," Evelyn drawled, and both Ethan and Derek chuckled. Rayna blushed, and without another word, she left the room, shutting the door behind her with just enough force to make her exit known.

    "I will go after her," Evelyn said as she hurried after Rayna.

    The room fell silent for a moment before Ethan and Derek broke into augh. "She''s something else," Derek remarked, sitting down in one of the chairs.

    "Yeah, she is," Ethan said with a grin. "She''s been great," he said softly.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Derek arched an eyebrow. "Oh? Sounds like someone''s got a personal nurse."

    "Having her as my nurse makes this broken arm worth it," Ethan said with a chuckle.

    Derek folded his arms, his gaze on Ethan. "You love her."

    Ethan raised an eyebrow. "You think?"

    "Don''t y dumb," Derek replied with a small smile. "It''s obvious you''re head over heels. I''m just so surprised that your crazy n worked."

    Ethan''s expression softened, and he nced toward the door as if expecting Rayna to return. "Yeah, I''m surprised too."

    "You''re lucky," Derek said, leaning back in his chair.

    Ethan chuckled. "I know I am."

    Outside the room, Evelyn caught up with Rayna, and before she could say anything, Rayna red at her, "Shut up."

    Evelyn giggled, "Why should I? You tried to fool me."

    "No, I didn''t, Rayna said, and Evelyn snorted.

    "I don''t me you, though. I should have known better than to listen to anything you say when Ethan is involved. When it has to do with Ethan, you''re always moving like a floundering fish," Evelyn said with a smallugh. "What''s that supposed to mean?" Rayna asked with an embarrassed smile.

    "It means you losemon sense when Ethan is involved. And it''s actually cute. So, seeing as you both are not taking things out from each other''s eyes and mouths..."

    "Shut up," Rayna said with a giggle, and Evelynughed.

    "I guess you''re no longer ying hard to get? You''re such a cheap girl, Rayna," Evelyn said, and Raynaughed.

    "I feel so embarrassed I can''t even lie," she admitted.

    "Well, there''s nothing to be embarrassed about, my friend. It''s good to see things working out for you," Evelyn said softly.

    "Thanks, Evie," Rayna said as she leaned forward and embraced her, "By the way, what''s up with your n to find Derek''s biological family?"

    "About that. There has been a change of ns," Evelyn said, and then Rayna told Rayna about Michael''s discovery and Derek''s decision.

    "Oh! That''s good, then. I hope he finds her soon. And most importantly, I hope she''s alive. It would be really sad if something had happened to her, Rayna said, and Evelyn shook her head.

    "No negative thoughts, Ray. Positive thoughts only. I really want Derek to be happy," she said, and Rayna smiled.

    "Me too. And most importantly, I can''t wait for us to n our weddings together, Rayna said in an excited singing voice, and Evelynughed.

    "Are you certain you love Ethan, or do you just want to get married?" She asked with amusement.

    "Both, darling. This is one of those cases where two truths exist. It goes without saying that I''m handling the cake and refreshments for your wedding, right?" Rayna said, and Evelynughed.

    "Sure. But let''s slow down. Both men are yet to propose," Evelyn said, and Rayna rolled her eyes.

    "What proposal are you searching for when you''re carrying baby number two in your belly? Besides, hasn''t he made his intention of marrying you clear already? Ethan has done that, and it''s okay..." "Nope. I''m not asking for anything big. All I want is a ring. A baby is not a ring," Evelyn said, and Rayna rolled her eyes.

    "Like Michael didn''t give you a ring," Rayna said dryly, and Evelyn gasped in shock.

    "No, you didn''t just say that," she eximed, and Rayna giggled.

    "Yes, I did. I''m saying a ring and going down on one knee isn''t that big of a deal, and it doesn''t determine the sess of a rtionship or marriage. So, our focus should be the wedding, not the proposal," Rayna said, and Evelyn scowled at her.

    "You could have made your point without bringing Michael up, she said, and Rayna smiled.

    "I''m wondering how you''re both going to face each other at family gatherings in the future," Rayna said with a giggle, and Evelynughed as they made their way back to join the guys.

    As they walked into the room, Ethan and Derek looked up, and Ethan raised a questioning brow as he met Rayna''s gaze, while Evelyn went to sit on Derek''s thighs.

    "You can drop the act. They figured it out already," Rayna said with a scowl and they allughed.

    "I guess things are not going your way," he said as he held out a hand to her.

    "Maybe it''s not meant to go my way. Just don''t make me regret forgiving you so easily," she said as she took his hand and sat beside him.

    "I won''t I promise"" Ethan said as he kissed her hand, while Evelyn and Derek smiled happily as they watched their best friends.

    "Why are you smiling, Evie? You know, I''ve been thinking, and you''re the cause of our troubles," Rayna said, and Evelyn raised a brow.

    "I am? How?" She asked with a curious smile.

    "That night at the club, if you had not been ying hard to get and just let Derek take us to his table and let him introduce me to Ethan all that drama that ensued between Ethan and I would not have happened," Rayna said usingly, and Evelyn''s jaw dropped while both Derek and Ethan chuckled. "Really? You''re going to me your mistake on me? Like I asked you to use an innocent man," Evelyn retorted yfully.

    "Whatever. You''re lucky that Ethan and I are meant to be and we found our way to each other regardless of the fact that you refused to let the universe use you?" Rayna said, and they allughed grateful for the gift of love and friendship.

 Chapter 195

    A couple of dayster, Maya stood in her room, neatly organizing and arranging her closet after doing herundry.

    As she began to fold and organize, she hummed softly to herself, feeling productive for the first time in days.

    Following the employment of the new domestic staff, she had less work to do daily and had too much time to do nothing.

    It was the middle of the day, and Derek and Evelyn had left for work after dropping Samantha off at school, leaving her with nothing to do.

    She had tried to befriend the domestic staff, but for some reason, they were ufortable around her.

    She figured it was because they thought she was superior to them as a member of the family, and they kept referring to her as

    ''ma''am''. Thinking about it now, sheughed softly, shaking her head with amusement.

    Hours passed as she worked, the closet gradually transforming from cluttered to orderly. She stacked folded sweaters into neat piles and hung her dresses in a perfect gradient of colors. Just as she reached the back of the closet, her hand brushed against something hard and unfamiliar. Frowning, Maya crouched down to see what it was. There, hidden behind a stack of old scarves, sat a worn stic first aid box.

    It was an old first aid box that she had transformed into a keepsake box.

    She pulled it out and carried it over to her bed. Sitting cross-legged, she opened the box with a mix of curiosity and nostalgia.

    She had totally forgotten about it and did not even remember that she had brought it with her to Ludus.

    Inside was a collection of small items: concert tickets, childhood trinkets, photos, and little notes shed kept over the years. Each item brought back a memory, and she found herself smiling as she picked them up one by one. Then, her fingers brushed against delicate silver chain.

    She lifted it carefully, her breath catching as the nes locket swung gently in the air. She recognized it immediately- it was the locket her mother had given her just before her death.

    Maya''s throat tightened as she turned the locket over in her hand.

    Her mother had told her the locket had been in her hand when she was pulled out from the car wreck.

    Her fingers trembled slightly as she pressed the tiny sp to open the locket. Inside was a picture of her biological parents and a boy no older than seven. Her elder brother. The faces stared back at her, frozen in time.

    She had no memory of them, yet they felt familiar, like a ghost of a feeling lingering at the edge of her mind. She traced the image of her brother with her thumb, her heart aching. Should I try to find him? What would she find if she took the leap?

    The question sat heavy in her chest. She had pushed the thought aside for years, convincing herself it wasn''t worth the effort. But now, with this newfound stability and the love of Evelyn and Derek surrounding her, she wondered if it was time to take the leap finally. She had enough information about it if she wanted to find him.

    She had this picture; she knew the orphanage home where he had been kept, and she also knew-

    Her thoughts were interrupted by the soft buzz of her phone on the nightstand. She nced over and saw Liam''s name shing on the screen.

    Smiling

    "Hello?"

    "I''m M she answered. "HeAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    "Hey,

    ''Liam''s warm voice greeted her. "How are you doing today?"

    sne replied, setting the locket down beside her. "What about you? Are you more settled now?"

    Getting there, he

    d I could admitted. "The unpacking helped, so thanks for that."

    she said, leaning back against her pillows.

    I help," she said,

    "How''s Evelyn? And Samantha?"

    "They''re good. Everything''s okay here."

    "Good to hear. So, what were you up to before I called?" he asked casually.

    Maya hesitated for a moment, then decided to be honest. "I was going through my keepsake box. Actually, I found something I''d like your opinion on."

    "Okay. What is it?" He asked eagerly.

    "Uhm, I haven''t really told anyone this before now, but I''d like a second opinion," she said and went on to tell him about her mother''s deathbed revtion and the possibility of having a brother somewhere. Liam listened quietly, not interrupting as she exined. "Do you think I should try to find him? Or perhaps I should leave things as they are?" Maya asked, her voice soft and uncertain.

    Liam paused before responding. "Why haven''t you tried before now?"

    "I don''t know," she admitted. "I guess I was afraid. Afraid of what I might find- or not find. Buttely, I''ve been thinking about it more, and now that I have some time... maybe I should."

    Liam''s voice was soft and reassuring. "I think you should. And if you''re serious about it, I''ll help you. Just give me the details, you know."

    Maya felt a wave of relief. "Thank you, Liam..."

    "I haven''t done anything to earn your gratitude yet," he said, and she smiled.

    "Offering to help is more than enough," she countered.

    "If you say so. So, not that I''ve received your gratitude, I have to earn it. Tell me what I need to know. Where did the ident happen? Hu?" He asked, and she sighed.

    "Yes. I might have to travel. My mother told me she left him in an orphanage after the ident. St Theresa''s Orphanage," she said, and Liam raised a brow.

    "Oh, there? I know there. I used to do some volunteer work there," he said, and Maya''s heart skipped a beat.

    "You do?" She asked, surprised.

    "Yeah. I don''t think you will need to travel. I can just put a call across to them, and I''m sure they will give me answers. Do you know when the ident happened? It would help me in asking precise questions," he said, and Maya nodded even though he couldn''t see her. "Yes. It''s my birthday. My Mom said the birthdate I''ve been using this whole time is actually the date of the ident, not my real birthday. That''s the date she took me in," Maya exined.

    Liam frowned, "Why would she make the same day you lost your family your birthday?"

    "I don''t think she thought about it that way," Maya said softly.

    "Well, then, send me the picture on the locket," Liam said thoughtfully. "I''ll look into it for you. By the end of the day, or at thetest by tomorrow, we should know the details of his adoption." Maya smiled, her heart feeling lighter. "You''re amazing, Liam.

    Thank you. I''m so d I confided in you."

    "Anytime," he replied, then added. "So, about the reason I called."

    "Oh! You had a reason for calling apart from checking on me?" She asked jokingly, and he chuckled.

    "Can we hang out again this weekend?" He asked, and Maya raised a brow, though her smile didn''t fade. "Are you bored again?"

    "Not exactly bored - I just enjoyed yourpany so much and want to hang out with you," Liam teased. "Aww. I''m ttered. We can hang out, but on one condition," Maya said, and Lucas raised a brow. "What?"

    "You have to talk to Evelyn. I don''t want to keep lying to her about you."

    Liam groaned. "You''re not lying..."

    "Yes, I am," Maya said firmly, and then sighed, "Listen, I get that you''re embarrassed, but you don''t even have to tell her the whole truth; just let her know you''re in Ludus. That''s all." Liam sighed heavily. "Okay, fine. I''ll give her a call."

    "Good. Make sure you don''t change your mind," Maya said,

    pleased.

    "I will try not to. I''ll get back to you after I hear from the orphanage. Talk to youter."

    "Later, Liam."

    As the call ended, Maya looked back at the locket. A new sense of purpose filled her. Maybe it was time to find the missing piece of her past- and herself, she thought as she wore the ne with the locket around her neck.

 Chapter 196

    Following Sandra''s arrest, Evelyn took over Sandra''s position and office at thepany. As a result, she had

    be even more busy than ever since resuming at her new office.

    In thest couple of days, Derek had made a habit of making sure she had breakfast in the morning before

    he dropped her of at work, and he also ensured that Lunch was delivered to her office so that she wouldn''t have any excuse to skip meals.

    As lunch break approached now, Evelyn nced at the clock on her desk. She had asked the chef not to bring her lunch because she had other ns.

    Seeing that it was noon, Evelyn grabbed her purse, straightened her blouse, and headed out of the office with a silly smile on her face as she imagined the surprise on Derek''s face when she showed up asking that they have lunch together.

    The cab ride to Derek''s office was quick, still it felt like a very long journey as she couldn''t wait to see him.

    She hadn''t visited him at work in a while. Thest time

    she had been to his office had been the day she revealed everything to him, and since then, she had been too busy to visit him at work.

    As she got out of the cab in front of thepany, she couldn''t help the tremor of nervousness that passed through her.

    Evelyn wasn''t sure why she was having butterflies. Maybe it was the idea of seeing Derek in his element, surrounded by people who respected him so much.

    Or perhaps it was the lingering weight of everything they had been through and how their reunion journey had started right here at thepany.

    As she walked into the building, she smiled to herself as she remembered how hard Derek had tried to

    seduce her. It felt like such a long time.

    When she reached the lobby of his office, the secretary shed her a cheerful smile and greeted her warmly.

    "Evelyn! It''s been ages since youst stopped by," she said, her tone filled with genuine excitement. "I was starting to think you''d given up on that interview idea because of all the trouble."

    Evelynughed, shaking her head. "No, not at al. That''s actually why I''m here. I wanted to confirm we

    could schedule the interview for next Friday."

    The secretary''s smile grew wider. "Oh, don''t worry about that. Mr. Stone gave me strict instructions - he said to cancel anything he has on any day you choose. So fi you say next Friday, then next Friday it is."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, a yful smirk on her lips.

    "Did he really?"

    "Absolutely, the Secretary said, nodding firmly.

    "Well, thank you. Is he in his office?" Evelyn asked with a soft smile.

    The Secretary nced at her monitor before responding. "He''s in a meeting at the conference hall right now, but you''re wee to wait for him."

    Evelyn nodded. "I will wait. Thank you."

    The receptionist gave her a small wave as Evelyn walked over to one of the plush chairs in the lobby. Evelyn watched with mild interest as employees passed by, holding folders or chatting in hushed tones.

    About thirty minutester, she looked up to see Derek walking toward her. His tall frame filled the room with

    an air of authority, but the surprise on his face softened his expression.

    "Babe? How long have you been here?" he asked, stopping in front of her. His tone held a mix of concern and curiosity.

    "Not too long," she replied, smiling. "I didn''t mind waiting."

    Derek frowned slightly, "You should have called to let me know you were here. And why are you out here anyway?" he asked, and then turned to his secretary, who was now standing behind her desk.

    "From now on, if Evelynes to see me, no matter where I am or what I''m doing, you let me know immediately. And she doesn''t wait out here- she waits in my office. Understood?"

    The Secretary fought to suppress a smile, but it was clear she found the exchange amusing. "Of course, sir. Congrattions, by the way."

    "Congrattions?" Evelyn asked, her smile fading into confusion as she exchanged a look with Derek.

    The secretary grinned. "Oh,e on. It''s about time you two made ti official. The tension between you was killing me!"

    Evelyn giggled while Derek raised a brow, surprised by her boldness. Seeing that Evelyn didn''t mind, he decided not to make a big deal out of it.

    "Come with me, babe," He said as he gestured for Evelyn to follow him, and they walked into his office.

    Once inside, Evelynughed softly. "You didn''t have to be so dramatic out there."

    "Dramatic? You''re my wife..." "Girlfriend," she corrected.

    "You''re not just my girlfriend. You''re the mother of my kids, and you''re going to be my wife. You shouldn''t be waiting in the lobby like a stranger," Derek said, his voice firm but warm.

    "Then what was I supposed to say? It''s not like our rtionship is known to everyone. I could hardly say,

    I''m Mr Stone''s Babymama, so let me into his office," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "I get that. Still, you could have called me. You know I would have ended that meeting right away, and you wouldn''t have to spend a moment waiting," he said, and Evelyn tilted her head, studying him.

    "You''re something else, you know that?"

    He smirked. "I''ll take that as apliment. So, what brings you here today?"

    "Apart from the fact that I came to discuss the interview with your secretary as you asked me to," she said, and he chuckled.

    "You didn''t have toe over to do it. You could have just called her," he pointed.

    "Well, apart from that, I was hoping we could grab lunch together," she said, sitting on the edge of his desk.

    Derek leaned against the door, crossing his arms as he narrowed his eyes. "You mean the chef didn''t deliver your lunch as I asked him to?"

    "Nope.sked him not to because Iwanted to eat with you."

    "Then let''s go," he said without hesitation.

    "What about your meeting? How did it go?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.

    He waved a hand dismissively. "I don''t want to talk about work. I want to talk about you. How are you doing?"Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    She smiled softly. "I''m fine. Oh, and I decided the interview will be next Friday.

    "Your wish si mymand, ma''am," he said with a slight bow as fi taking orders.

    As they left his office, Derek slipped his arm around her waist, and Evelyn raised a brow when she noticed several eyes on them. "What are you doing?"

    "Subtly announcing to everyone that you''re mine," he said with a casual shrug.

    "There is nothing subtle about this," she said,ughing despite herself.

    "This is as subtle as I can be without making you feel embarrassed. If youin, I''ll tap your ass or kiss you right here and carry you out in my arms," he threatened, his tone teasing.  en

    Sheughed harder. "You wouldn''t dare!"

    "Try me."

    Herughter softened as he looked at her, his gaze warm and tender "Have I told you that I love the sound of yourughter," he said, brushing a strand of hair from her face.O

    "Derek..."

    "And your eyes," eh continued. "That green shade si beautiful. I hope our boy has your beautiful eyes."

    Evelyn''s cheeks turned pink. "Stop it," she said, giggling.

    "What am Isupposed to stop?"

    "You''re making me feel self-conscious."

    "Why? You should know how amazing you are," he said, and she rolled her eyes.

    "We don''t even know fi it''s a boy or a girl. Besides, you said you didn''t care," she reminded him.

    "Yes, I don''t. But I had a dream that we had a boy. So, I think it''s a boy," he said, and sheughed as they stepped outside.

    "When do you think we should tell Sam about the baby?" Evelyn asked as they approached the car.

    Derek grinned, "After our appointment with the obstetricia this weekend, Iguess," he said as he opened the car door for her.

    "She''s going to be so excited," Evelyn said with a giggle, and Derek chuckled.

    I"can only imagine," he said, smiling at the thought.

    As they drove to the restaurant, Derek''s phone rang. His expression darkened when he saw the caller ID.

    He put the call on speaker. "Mr. Stone, this si Detective Greene. Sandra wants to meet with Evelyn."

    "No," Derek said sharply.

    Evelyn ced a hand on his arm. "I want to see her."

    Derek nced at her, his jaw tightening. I" don''t want it. Idon''tlikeit."

    "We can go together," she said gently. "I just want to close that chapter."

    After a long pause, he sighed. "Fine. But you''re not going within ten feet of her."

    "That''s fine by me," Evelyn said, and after agreeing on a date, Derek ended the call.

    Momentster, Evelyn''s phone buzzed. She answered quickly when she saw the caller ID, her expression changing as she listened.

    "We have been able to trace the

    woman who dropped of the boy at

    the orphanage," the voice said. "But

    she''s dead. However, we found out that she has a daughter, and we are working on finding her."

    Evelyn exhaled in relief. "Thank you. Please keep me updated."

    When she hung up, she turned to Derek. "They''re close to finding her," she said before giving him the details.

    He sighed softly. "Although I don''t know what I''m going to say or do when I see her, I hope they find her soon."

    "Me too," Evelyn said as she reached over and squeezed his hand. Al the chaos faded for a moment, leaving only the warmth between them.

 Chapter 197

    As the family gathered at the table to eat dinner that evening, Samanthaunched into an enthusiastic retelling of her day at school before the others even had the chance to settle into their chairs. "And then, Mrs. Connelly said my drawing was the best in the whole ss!" Samantha beamed, her fork clinking against her te as she stabbed at a piece of broli.

    Evelyn smiled, resting her chin in her hand. Her daughter''s energy was infectious, and though a part of her wanted to remind Samantha to chew with her mouth closed, she refrained. Derek had said he preferred to have them talk about their days during dinner and he would rather have a noisy dinner at home than a civilized one.

    "That''s wonderful, Sam," Maya said, her voice warm as she leaned forward. "What did you draw?"

    "A castle with unicorns! But the unicorns had wings, too. And Mrs. Connelly said I have a big imagination!" Samantha''s eyes sparkled as she spoke, her words tumbling out in an excited rush. "Well, I''m d your talent is finally being recognized, Derek said with mock seriousness, causing Samantha to puff up with pride.

    Mayaughed softly, enjoying the warm atmosphere at the table. Moments like these made her feel truly at home. "You do have a big imagination. Did you give the unicorns names?"

    "Of course!" Samantha paused dramatically, ncing at each adult at the table as if preparing for a grand reveal. "The blue one is Sparkle, the pink one is Starry, and the green one is... uh... Lucky!" "That''s a perfect name," Maya said, her smile widening. "Lucky sounds very unique."

    "Sparkle is a beautiful name," Evelyn said, smiling as she gently reached out to ruffle Samantha''s hair.

    As Samantha continued her tale, Derek became mostly quiet, his fork moving methodically as he ate. But his gaze kept flickering toward Maya-or rather, toward the ne she was wearing.

    The delicate silver chain glinted faintly under the light, the locket nestled just above the curve of her corbone. Derek''s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of recognition stirring deep within him. It was as though the locket held some unspoken significance he couldn''t quite ce.

    Evelyn, sitting beside him, noticed his interest in Maya. Her brow furrowed, and her gaze darted between Derek and Maya. The longer he stared, the tighter a knot formed in Evelyn''s chest.

    She tried to dismiss the unease that prickled at the edges of her thoughts, but it persisted. Why was he staring at Maya like that? She mused as she followed his eyes to Maya''s chest.

    Trying hard not to read too much meaning into it, she forced a smile. "Derek?" Evelyn''s voice was light but pointed, breaking the rhythm of the conversation.

    She arched an eyebrow, "You seem very interested in Maya''s ne. Is there a story there I don''t know about?" She asked, her tone teasing.

    She hoped the ne was what he was staring at and nothing else.

    Derek blinked, startled out of his thoughts, as he turned away from Maya to look at her. "What?" He looked at Evelyn, then at Maya, whose hand instinctively rose to the ne, her fingers brushing over the locket protectively.

    Evelyn tilted her head, curiositycing her expression. "Do you have a thing for lockets, Derek?" she asked, her tone yful butced with a faint edge.

    As if sensing the tension, Maya took a sip of her water and then forced a smile. "I-I haven''t worn it before," she said, her voice soft. It''s... special to me."

    Derek hesitated, his brows drawing together as he struggled to articte what he''d been thinking. "It''s not... that," he began, but before he could finish, Maya''s phone vibrated on the table next to her te.

    She nced at the screen, and her heart skipped a beat when she saw Liam''s name shing. She had been awaiting his call all day and had almost begun to think that he had forgotten his promise to reach out to the orphanage home. "Sorry, I need to take this. Excuse me for a moment," she said as she pushed her chair back and rose from the table before walking away.Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!

    Once Maya disappeared up the stairs, Evelyn turned back to Derek, her smile fading. She lowered her voice so that Samantha wouldn''t catch on. "Was it really the ne you were staring at?"

    Derek paused mid-bite, his eyes meeting hers. "What else would I be looking at?" he asked, his toneced with confusion.

    Evelyn hesitated, then sighed. "Forget it. It''s nothing."

    But Derek didn''t look away. His expression shifted, a flicker of hurt crossing his face as understanding dawned on him. "You think I was-" He stopped, his voice ringing with disbelief.

    "I can''t believe you thought that, talk more of asking me such a question." His voice was firm, but he didn''t raise it.

    Instead, he set his fork down carefully and leaned back in his chair, his jaw tightening.

    "It was just a harmless question," Evelyn said quickly, though her voicecked conviction.

    Derek looked her in the eyes, letting her know he knew very well that she asked because the thought had crossed her mind that he was ogling at Maya.

    "You really think I''m that sort of person? Or that I would disrespect you in that manner?" He asked with a shake of his head.

    The tension at the table grew thick, and Samantha, who had been chewing a carrot, looked up with wide eyes. "Are you fighting?"

    Evelyn and Derek both turned to her, their expressions softening instantly.

    "No, sweetheart," Evelyn said quickly, forcing a smile.

    "We''re just talking."

    "Grown-up talk," Derek added, his voice gentle now. He picked up his fork again, stabbing at a piece of chicken.

    Samantha eyed them suspiciously but then shrugged, returning to her te. "Okay. But you sounded like you were fighting."

    "We weren''t, Princess. I love your mummy too much to fight with her," Derek said, fixing Evelyn with a look that both told her that he loved her, and he was disappointed at the same time at herck of faith in him. Upstairs in her room, Maya tapped to answer the call and brought the phone to her ear.

    "Hello?"

    "Hey, Maya," Liam''s voice came through, warm but slightly hesitant. "Is this a good time?"

    Maya leaned against the wall, her hand idly ying with the locket around her neck. "Yeah. I was having dinner with the family, but it''s okay. What''s up?"

    "I''m sorry I didn''t call earlier," Liam began, his tone apologetic. "I got caught up after ourst conversation and only just got home now."

    "It''s fine," Maya assured him. "Did you find out anything helpful?"

    There was a pause on the line before Liam spoke again, his voice tinged with disbelief. "I did. And you won''t believe what I found out." Maya''s heart began to race, her fingers gripping the phone tightly. "What is it?"

    "I spoke with someone at the orphanage," Liam exined. "They told me that a couple of weeks ago, someone came around to ask questions about the boy in the picture you sent. And recently, someone else has also been asking around about the identity and details of the woman who left the boy there twentynine years ago... and took his baby sister with her."

    Maya froze, her pulse thundering in her ears. "Are you serious?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

    "I am," Liam said excitedly. "It''s incredible, Maya. While you''re searching for your brother, it seems he''s been searching for you too."

    A lump formed in Maya''s throat as she struggled to process his words. "Did you find out who was asking? Is there a way I can meet them?"

    "I asked the orphanage to reach out to the person," Liam said. "I told them to ask for more details about your brother, and I gave them my contact information

    so they could follow up."

    Maya''s heart raced with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. "I don''t mind flying to Hu if it means meeting him," she said quickly. "If they ask where I am, you can tell them I''m in Hu. That way, he won''t have to worry abouting all the way to Ludus." "Got it," Liam promised. "I''ll let you know as soon as I hear back. Hopefully, tomorrow."

    "Thank you so much, Liam," Maya said, her voice thick with emotion.

    "Don''t thank me yet," Liam teased gently. "But I''ll do everything I can to help."

    When the call ended, Maya leaned against the wall for a moment, her hand pressed over her pounding heart. Then, unable to contain herself, she flopped onto her bed and kicked her legs into the air with pure joy.

    "He''s looking for me," she whispered to herself, tears of happiness welling in her eyes. "He didn''t forget about me." The realization filled her with warmth, and for the first time since she lost her mother, she felt whole. Her heart was lighter than it had been in years.

    After a few moments, Maya sat up, wiped her eyes, and took a deep breath. She touched the locket around her neck, her fingers tracing its curves as she whispered a silent prayer of gratitude.

    She couldn''t help but feel that this was the beginning of something truly life-changing.

    When she returned to the dining room, she noticed that everyone was quiet, and she silently hoped that Evelyn and Derek weren''t fighting over anything.

    The rest of the meal passed in near silence, save for Samantha''s intermittent chatter. Evelyn tried to rejoin the conversation, but Derek remained silent.

    Evelyn watched Derek from the corner of her eye, guilt twisting in her chest. She shouldn''t have asked that. It was just an innocent observation, wasn''t it? Then why had she let her insecurity creep in?

    After a while, Derek rose and excused himself.

    Immediately, Evelyn rose too, "Maya, could you please finish up with Sam? We will tuck her in before she goes to bed," Evelyn said, and Maya nodded.

    "Sure," she said and watched as Evelyn hurried after Derek.

    She caught up with Derek just as he stepped into their bedroom and hugged him from behind. "I''m sorry."

    Derek stood still as she held him, and she turned around to face him, "I''m sorry. I really do not know

    where that came from. I saw you

    gazing at her so intently, and I just... I don''t know. I felt really

    ufortable. Maybe it''s a result of my past rtionship, and I just don''t want to be taken for a fool while things happen under my nose again," she exined softly, and Derek sighed.

    "I love you, Eve. I wish there were a way to tear my heart out for you to see it. I love you. You''ve got mepletely. Body. Heart. Mind. Soul. I''m yours, I don''t want anyone else I''ve not even wanted anyone else in all the time since I met you six years ago, feel really hurt that you''d think so low of me after all we''ve been through together. I deserve better than that, Eve. I understand where your feelings of insecurity areing from, but can you trust me? I''ve never given you a reason to

    doubt my love or loyalty, have I?" He asked, and she shook her head.

    "Then please, do not insult my love for you by thinking that way. I was staring at the locket. I was sort of fascinated by it. And that''s just it. Nothing else. I swear to you," he said, and she nodded.

    "I know. I believe you. I''m sorry I insinuated otherwise," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "It''s fine," he said, and Evelyn batted hershes at him.

    "I could make it up to you," she said suggestively, and he chuckled.

    "We will see how you n to do that," Derek said with a grin. Evelyn embraced him, relieved that they could talk it over so quickly.

 Chapter 198

    The darkness was thick, pressing in from all sides, as Derek tossed and turned restlessly in his sleep, trapped in a nightmare he longed to escape. Something about the dream was familiar- perhaps it was the fuzzy and disorienting feeling that made him feel like he was looking through a broken lens.

    He was small again, no more than seven years old. His legs dangled from the back seat of a car that felt both familiar and distant. His hands moved across the screen of a small device, busy with a building block game.

    A man, presumably his biological father, was in the driver''s seat, humming softly. His deep voice calmed the tense air and lulled Derek into a sense of security.

    A woman, most likely his biological mother, sat in the passenger seat, holding a quiet conversation with the man. At the same time, a baby no older than ten months slept in an infant safety seat next to him, a silver neck chain clutched tightly in her hand. Despite the peaceful setting, little Derek could tell that something was wrong.

    He shifted untold him he had been here before, had lived through this, but couldn''t quite remember why.

    in his seat, his fingers hesitating over the game console in his hand. A strange sense of foreboding crept in

    -the kind that

    His eyes darted up from the screen, peeking at the man''s reflection in the rearview mirror. There was a slight frown on his face now, his eyes flicking nervously to the sides of the road.

    "Honey, are you okay back there? Is your sister still sleeping?" the woman asked. Before Derek could respond, a blinding light pierced through the dream, and a deafening roar filled the air as a truck suddenly appeared from the left side of the road. It came barreling out of nowhere, its headlights ring like the eyes of a predator. Derek opened his mouth to scream, but no sound came.

    "Oh, my God, Tyler! Tanya"" he heard the woman cry as she turned in her seat.

    The world slowed down, every second dragging out painfully as the truck collided with the side of their car. The impact was brutal.

    Metal crunched, ss shattered, and the car spun wildly out of control. Derek''s small body was jerked around in his seatbelt as the car somersaulted off the road. His mother''s scream was cut off by the horrifying screech of metal scraping against the pavement. The sleeping baby was awake now, crying out loudly as though it could tell what was happening. The game console slipped from Derek''s hands, bouncing off the car seat and disappearing into the chaos as he tried to reach for his baby sister. The car flipped again. And again.

    Derek''s heart pounded in his chest, the sound deafening in his ears. Blood trickled down his face, warm and sticky. Everything hurt. He was crying now, though he couldn''t hear himself. The world was a blur of blood, broken ss, and twisted metal. And then, there was silence. Even the baby was no longer crying.

    The car had stopped moving. It rested on its side, crumpled like a discarded toy. Derek''s tiny body was trapped in the wreckage, his chest heaving with panicked breaths. The pain was overwhelming, but it was the silence that terrified him the most. Mommy?" "He cried when neither of them moved nor responded.

    He thed to get out of his seat, wanting to check on his sister and parents, until he heard the sound of a door opening.

    Through his bloodied vision, he saw him. A figure, shadowed by the darkness, stepped out from the wreckage of the truck. As he approached the broken car, he moved with eerie calm, unhurried.

    The footsteps were wrong- too slow, too deliberate.

    They were distant at first, barely audible over the ringing in his ears. But they grew louder, closer, with each agonizing second.

    Derek''s breath hitched, fear coursing through his veins.

    Derek''s eyes widened in terror as the figure knelt beside the car, peering into the shattered window.

    He was checking, checking to see if they were still alive.

    Derek''s heart raced as his gaze flickered to his father, slumped in the driver''s seat, blood pooling beneath him.

    His mother was unmoving, her face pale in the moonlight. Derek''s tiny body trembled, helpless, as the figure leaned in closer. His hand reached into his jacket, and he pulled out a gun.

    Derek''s breath

    Bang. He shot at Derek''s father, at as the figure straightened up. In the stillness of the night, he raised the weapon.

    Derek''s blood

    tat father, and Derek watched as his father''s body jolted with the force of the shot. Derek

    ood ran cold, and he shut his eyes tightly as he heard the second gunshot. He knew it was his mother.

    Each shot reverberated through the dream like a thunderp, shaking him to his very core. Derek''s sobs were silent, his voice trapped somewhere deep within his chest. He tried to move, tried to scream, but his body refused to

    The figure stepped back, surveying the scene as though it was just another job.

    to obey.

    him. tighter and I tighter, suffocating him.

    He was drowning in the blood, the ss, the endless silence.

    The nightmare closed in on his chest heaving as though he had been running for miles. Sweat drenched his face, mingling with tears that streamed down uncontrobly. Derek j jolted awake with a gasp, his chest

    His eyes darted around the dimly lit room, struggling to make

    Babe, hey... hey, it''s okay," Evelyn''s voice broke through the bense of where he was. His breath came in ragged, uneven gulps, and his trembling hands clutched the nket as though it were the only thing tethering him to reality.

    haze, soft and urgent.

    She was sitting up beside him, her hands gripping his shoulders firmly, grounding him. "It''s me. You''re safe. It was just a dream."

    Derek''s head snapped toward helttural, as the memories came rushing back in vivid, unbearable detail. He buried his face in his hands, his shoulders shaking violently under the force of his grief. "My mom... my dad... my sister... they-" He couldn''t finish.

    his wide, haunted eyes locking onto hers. "They... they re gone, he choked out, his voice cracking under the weight of his emotions. "It wasn''t an ident. They killed them... I saw it. I saw everything." His words broke into sobs, raw and The words lodged in his throat like shards of ss, too painful to speak. heart shattered at the sight of him. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him tightly against her. her voice steady despite the lump forming in her throat. "''ve got you, Derek. Let it out. I''m here."

    E.

    Evelyn''s she

    d him spiraling back into the nightmare. His face pressed into her shoulder, his tears

    whitting go

    He clung to her as if go would I send

    soaking through her flimsy nightgown.

    Each sob that wracked his body felt like a wave crashing over him, threatening to pull him under. His fists clenched the fabric of her nightgown as though it were the only thing keeping him from falling apart entirely. "I remember," he croaked between sobs. "I remember everything. crash,

    The Evelyn''s

    , the truck, the man... he... he shot them. He killed them, Evelyn. He killed my parents right in front of me."

    arms tightened around him, her hand moving to the back of his head, gently stroking his hair. "I''m so sorry, Derek," she murmured, her voice trembling with emotion. "I can''t imagine how much that hurts, but you''re not alone. I''m here now. You don''t have to face this alone." Derek''s breathing hitched as her words sank in. He leaned into her embrace, his tears wet against her skin. "I couldn''t save them" he whispered, his voice breaking. "I couldn''t do anything. I only watched, and I... I couldn''t stop him." Evelyn pulled back slightly, just enough to cup his face in her hands. Her thumbs brushed away his tears as she met his anguished gaze with tear-filled eyes. "You were just a child, Derek. None of this was your fault. None of it. Do you hear

    me?"

    He nodded faintly, though the guilt still weighed heavily in his eyes.

    She pressed her forehead gently to his, her voice soft but firm.

    "You''re not that scared little boy anymore. You survived something unimaginable, and you''re here now. And I''m here with you. We are going to find your sister. I promise you, we will."Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    His sobs began to quiet, his breathing still shaky but slowing as

    her words calmed the storm raging inside him. He closed his eyes, leaning into her touch, his tears finally beginning to subside.

    "Thank you," ''he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Evelyn p

    pulled him back into her arms, holding him tightly as though she could shield him from the pain of his memories.

    "Always" she said softly. "I''ll always be here for you."

    They stayed like that for a long time, the silence filled only by the sound of his breathing gradually evening out. Derek didn''t let go, and neither did Evelyn pull back as Derek clung to her, finding sce in her warmth. Evelyn wasn''t sure what had triggered the memory, but now she could understand how traumatic the incident must have been for him to have forgotten about it all this while.

 Chapter 199

    Chapter

    199All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    The next morning, sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the bedroom. Derek sat at the edge of the bed, his elbows resting on his knees and his head bowed. His hands trembled slightly as they raked through his messy hair, the events of the nightmare lingering like a heavy fog.

    Since waking up from the nightmare, he had been unable to go back to sleep or bring himself to get out of bed. Going to the office was thest thing on his mind, and he had texted his secretary to cancel all his appointments for the day because he was not feeling well. Evelyn held him close until morning, and then she left to prepare Samantha for school and take her to school since she knew Derek was not in the right frame of mind for that. Now, Evelyn watched him from the doorway, her heart aching at the sight of his slumped shoulders and distant stare.

    She walked over and sat beside him, resting a gentle hand on his back. "Did you manage to sleep at all?" she asked softly, her voiceced with concern.

    Derek shook his head. "Not really. Every time I closed my eyes, it was like I was back there... in the car... hearing the gunshots." He exhaled shakily, his voice dropping to a whisper. "It felt so real, Eve. And the worst part is, I don''t think this is the first time I''ve had this dream. I think I''ve had this nightmare before... a lot of times, actually. Probably when I was a kid." Her brow furrowed. "You think so?" his gaze fixed on the f

    He nodded, on the floor. "I can''t exin it, but it''s familiar. Like it''s always been there, just buried deep inside." He paused, the weight of his thoughts pressing down on him. "I need to be sure it''s more than just a nightmare." Evelyn hesitated, then asked, "What are you thinking of doing?" Derek rubbed his palms together, his mind racing. "First, I need to call my parents," he said, his voice tinged with a mix of apprehension and determination. "I need to ask them if I ever had nightmares like this before."

    Evelyn nodded, her hand sliding down to squeeze his. "Okay. Let''s call them."

    Derek picked up his phone and dialed his mother''s number before pressing the phone to his ear.

    Evelyn busied herself with organizing the bedroom, but stayed close enough to listen.

    The call connected, and his

    d his mother''s warm voice came through.

    "Derek! Good morning, sweetheart," she greeted cheerfully.

    "Good morning, Mom," Derek said, his voice quieter than usual. "I...

    I need

    to ask you something. It''s import

    important."

    His mother''s tone shifted, her cheer reced by concern. "Of course, honey. Are you okay? Is something wrong? What is it?" Derek hesitated, his fingers tightening around the phone. "Did I

    ever have nightmares as a kid? About... about something terrible happening?"

    There was a pause on the other e other end. "Nightmares?" his mother repeated slowly. "All kids sometimes have nightmares."

    "No. Not the general type. More serious nightmares," he asked, and she sighed softly as though she had been hoping he wouldn''t ask. you did.

    did. When you

    Yes, felt his cho you first came to us, you had

    had them almost

    tighten.

    "What were they about? Did I ever tell yought for weeks. It took a long time before they finally stopped."

    "You were so young," his mother said gently. "You couldn''t exin much. But you''d wake up crying, sometimes screaming, and you''d cling to us, saying you didn''t want to lose us too." Her voice softened further. "It broke our hearts, Derek. You were so scared." He swallowed hard, his throat dry. "They came back, Mom. Last night, I had one. And... I think I understand now what happened to my biological parents."

    A: sharp intake of breath crackled through the line. "Oh, Derek," ''his mot mother murmured. "What do you mean?"

    "I think they were murdered," he said, his voice trembling. "It wasn''t just an ident. I remember... the crash, the man... he shot them, Mom. He killed them." He pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to steady his voice. "I want to look into it. I need to know the truth." There was a long pause. When his mother finally spoke, her voice was cautious. "Derek, are you sure about this? Digging into the past... it could bring up a lot of pain. I don''t want you to get hurt," she said, her tone pleading.

    "I can''t stop now," he said firmly. "I''ve already started looking for my sister, but I can''t stop there. I need to know what really happened to my parents. I need to know if they were killed and why."

    His mother''s voice trembled with worry. "I knew you were going to be this way. This was the reason I didn''t say anything all this while.."

    "You knew? You knew my parents were murdered?" He asked, hoping he had heard wrong.

    Evelyn,

    mom

    who was listening from the other side of the room, paused to look at Derek. "Yes, I did. But that''s not important now..."

    "It

    is."

    is," He said, his tone weary.

    A part of of him had been hoping that the murder part of the dream had only been a dream and nothing more. He had not wanted to believe that someone had been cruel enough to shoot his parents, who had already died from the hit by the truck. "How much more do you know?" Derek asked, hurt that she had kept such an important detail from him. Evelyn left the

    Seeing that the e conversation might be longer than she thought,

    ?"

    left the room to get him something to drink.

    only know it was murder. When you were younger, whenever you saw a gun scene on the television, you would hide. And even toy guns terrified you. Coupled with the nightmares, which I thought were night terrors at first. I had to take you to a child psychologist, and she confirmed that med that you had post-traumatic stress disorder. I was very worried and scared for you. I had no idea what happened to your family, and to protect you, we decided you totally adopted our son''s identity. That way, no one could find you," she said softly. "But you gave me his identity from the moment I got home from the orphanage," Derek said with a frown.

    "No. That''s how you remember it. But that''s not what happened, darling. Yes, I chose you because you reminded me of him, and I was drawn to you naturally. But you were never meant to be a recement for him. We wanted you to have all his stuff because it would be a waste to throw them out, but we didn''t adopt you to be him. No one can rece a dead offspring. Being a parent now yourself, I''m sure you''d understand better. We gave you Derek''s identity to protect you," his mother said, and Derek sighed deeply, not understanding anything about his life life anymore. "Do you

    Do really think it was easy for us to watch you grow and call you by his name? It was painful, Derek. I''d have to be insane to be able to look at you and call you by his name without remembering my loss. It would have been easier to call you by a different name," she said, and for a moment, Derek thought about it.

    He had been wrong about everything. It seemed like he no longer knew who he was or anything about himself as he had thought he did. "Promise me

    I be careful. Please, Derek," she pleaded when he remained silent. be

    "I will," he assured her. "I just... I have to do this, Mom."

    They exchanged a few more words before ending the call. Derek set his phone down, buried his face in his hands, and exhaled deeply. Evelyn returned to the room and walked over to where he sat, handing him a steaming mug before sitting close to him.

    "That seemed intense," she said gently.

    he said, and then told her all his mother had said.

    "It was,, he said

    "How do you feel now?" Evelyn asked, her voice soft and concerned.

    "Lost," he admitted, his hands wrapped around the mug. "But I can''t ignore this. I need answers."

    Evelyn reached for his hand, her fingers brushing his. "Maybe when we find your sister, we might have the clue that could help piece this all together." Derek nodded slowly, his eyes meeting hers. "You''re right. She''s the key. If I can find her... maybe everything will start to make sense." "Aren''t you going to work?" "And leave

    you all

    "I am my own Tam

    Derek asked when he nced at the clock and saw that she was runningte.

    all by yourself in this state? I don''t think so. If you''re home, then I will stay home too," she said, and he smiled softly. boss he pointed out.

    "And I am my boss'' daughter. And even if I wasn''t, my man is a boss and can take care of me if I lose my job," she said, and Derek chuckled.

    "That''s

    s correct," he said with a sigh.

    Before either of them could say anything else, Evelyn''s phone buzzed, and she received the call when she saw it was from the person helping her track Derek''s sister.

    "I just received a call f from t the

    "What did you just say?" Shephanage home. It seems like the girl is trying to find her brother, too," he said, and Evelyn''s heart skipped a beat, and tears gathered in her eyes as she turned to Derek.

    asked, her voice thick with emotion as she ced the call on speaker for Derek to hear.

    "The girl you''re looking for is also trying to find her brother. She''s in Hu," he said, and tears of joy dropped from Evelyn''s eyes when she saw the tears that gathered in Derek''s eyes.

    The words settled something in him, a tiny flicker of hope pushing back against the weight of his grief. For the first time that morning, he allowed himself to believe that answers might still be within reach. "I want to see her. I will fly down at once," Derek said, and Evelyn nodded.

 Chapter 200

    Chapter 200 +5

    Maya was beside herself with excitement as she packed her bag, getting ready for the trip to Hu in case Liam called with good news for her.

    One of her mottos in life was to always be prepared.

    She had barely been able to sleep all night because she had been thinking about meeting her elder brother.

    She wondered how he had been faring all these years and if life had been good to him. She wondered how much he remembered and if he would recognize her easily when they met.

    Was he married? Did he have kids? She felt giddy at the thought of having not only a brother but a sister-inw as well as nieces and nephews.

    Thinking about it, she paused when she remembered that she had yet to tell Evelyn about this recent development.

    She had never mentioned having a brother to Evelyn before or anything about what her mother had told her before she passed away.

    The only reason she had told Liam about it was that it had be a burden on her mindtely and had be even more so after seeing the locket again.

    She jolted when her phone began to ring, and she quickly received the call when she saw it was Liam.

    "Good morning, Liam. I''ve been waiting for your call," she said excitedly.

    Liam smiled, "You sound pretty excited," he noted.

    "I am. Did you hear back from the orphanage? Have you found out about my brother''s identity?" Maya asked hopefully.

    Liam sighed, "About that, it seems the guy asking questions at the orphanage was contracted by your brother. For some reason, he''s not interested in revealing his identity. He would rather meet with you in person," Liam said, and Maya frowned. "Perhaps he is someone important?" She asked, wondering why else he would send someone and not want to reveal his identity.

    "I considered that, too. But just to be on the safe side, I decided to schedule a meeting on your behalf. You don''t have to reveal your identity to him either until you meet him," Liam said, and Mayaughed.

    "I''m not someone important. It doesn''t matter whether or not you reveal my identity," Maya said, and Liam raised a brow.

    "You''re someone important. You''re important to Evelyn and Samantha. And you''re my friend, so you''re important to me too," Liam said, and Maya rolled her eyes but she smiled.

    "I''m sure you know what I meant," she said and then sighed.

    "How soon can I meet him? I''m guessing he won''t share his contact details either. Perhaps he wants to see me first and decide whether or not I''m someone he wants in his life," Maya said thoughtfully.

    "Let''s not overthink it. I was told he wants to meet you as soon as possible. And since he was told you''re in Hu, I''m expecting he would want to see you today if he too is in Hu," Liam said, and Maya nced at her watch.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    "If I leave for Hu today, I can see him in two days. Let''s set up the meeting for Saturday," she said, and Liam nodded

    "Have you told Evelyn yet?" He asked, and she sighed.

    "No. I''m not sure I want to tell her about it until I''ve met with him, and I''m sure he wants me in his life," she said, and Liam paused.

    "Are you always this cautious?" He asked, and she shrugged.

    "I told you before. I''d rather prepare my mind for the worst and be surprised pleasantly."

    "He wouldn''t be trying to find you if he didn''t want you in his life,"

    Liam pointed out.

    "Maybe. But I''ll tell Evelyn about it after I reunite with him," Maya said, and Liam nodded.

    "Alright. I''m sure you know best. I will set up a meeting for Saturday at a restaurant, and I''ll send the details to you and them.

    Let me know before you leave for Hu," Liam said, and Maya smiled

    "Thank you so much, Liam. I''d never have imagined that you''d be someone I''d have to depend on in this way. Thank you," she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

    "Just don''t forget you owe me a hangout," he said before hanging up, making herugh.

    As Maya threw her phone on the bed, she took a deep breath as she prepared herself to go inform Evelyn that she was embarking on an impromptu trip.

    Away from there, in Derek''s bedroom, Evelyn looked at Derek after hanging up the call. We will go together. You don''t have to do this alone," she said firmly. Derek looked at her, his throat tight with emotion. "Are you sure?

    You have so much going on at work. And your Mom..."

    She cut him off with a small smile. "My Mom is fine and feeling much better. My Dad can take care of her. Work can wait, too.

    Nothing else matters right now. What matters is you finding her," Evelyn said softly.

    "What about Samantha..."

    "I''m sure Maya won''t mind watching after her, and.." a knock sounded on the door before Evelyn could finish.

    "Excuse me," she said as she went to get the door. "Maya? Is everything alright?" She asked, and Maya nodded.

    "Yes. I wanted to let you know that something urgent came up, and I need to travel to Hu. I was going to tell you thatst night, but I didn''t get the chance. And this morning, too, Maya bbed, and Evelyn''s brows pulled together.

    "Hu? Is everything alright?" She asked, and Maya smiled as she nodded.

    "Yes. Everything is fine. Something came up, but I can''t give you the details right now. I promise to tell you all about it when I get back," Maya said with a smile that assured Evelyn that everything was fine. "Have you booked your flight yet?" Evelyn asked, and Maya shook her head.

    "No. Not yet. I wanted to talk to you first," she said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Alright. Can you hold on? Maybe give me a couple of minutes to talk to Derek? Don''t book your flight just yet," she said, and although Maya couldn''t understand why, she nodded

    "I''ll be in my room," she said before walking away.

    "Who was at the door?" Derek asked, and Evelyn sighed softly.

    "Maya. She needs to make an impromptu trip to Hu," Evelyn exined, and Derek frowned.

    "All of a sudden?" He asked, his thoughts shing to the locket she had been wearing the night before.

    "Yeah. Why don''t we all leave

    together? I will call the school and

    let them know Samantha will be

    staying with your parents for a couple of days. You can give your Mom a call to exin the situation to her," Evelyn said, knowing that his parents wouldn''t mind.

    Derek hesitated, "Don''t you think she is going to be worried if we all travel suddenly and leave her with my parents."

    "She will be alright, trust me. Besides, she will be too excited about spending time with all those dolls, your parents got her to worry about anything else. We will be back before she misses us," Evelyn said confidently. Derek considered it for a moment, and then he nodded, "Thank you, Eve. I don''t know what I''d do without you."

    Evelyn brushed a strand of hair from his forehead. "You''ve been doing pretty well on your own before I showed up," she said with a small smile, already mentally listing the things they''d need.

    "Alright then. Let''s go together. I''ll arrange for a flight immediately," Derek said, and she nodded.

    "Good. I''ll call her school and all our bags. You focus on booking the flights..."

    Derek shook his head softly, his lips curving into a faint smile despite the weight on his chest. "We don''t need to book flights or pack much. I''ll have the jet ready within the hour.

    Just grab whatever you need, and

    we''ll leave. We can get anything else there."

    Evelyn blinked, momentarily startled. In the whirlwind of emotions, she had forgotten that Derek had the resources to bypass all the usual dys. "Right. Of course." She smiled back at him.

    "I''ll let Maya know she can fly with us"" Evelyn said, and as she headed for the door, Derek reached for his phone again, dialing the number of his pilot.

    The moment Evelyn knocked on Maya''s bedroom door, Maya opened it, wondering what Evelyn wanted to say.

    "You don''t have to book a flight. Something came up, and Derek and I had to fly down to Hu. You can travel with us in his jet," she said, and Maya beamed a happy smile.

    "Really? What a coincidence," Maya said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "Yeah. You can get your stuff ready. I''ll let you know when we can leave," she said, and Maya nodded, d that she had been saved the flight expense and she would travelfortably.

    It seemed like the universe was on her side, Maya thought happily as Evelyn walked away.

    As Evelyn walked back into the bedroom to meet Derek, he turned to her, his eyes bright with purpose. "They''ll have the jet ready soon."

    Together, they ced the call to Derek''s mom and Samantha''s school, and within moments, arrangements were set.

    An hourter, Evelyn, Derek, and Maya left the house together to go to the airport.

 Chapter 201

    As they boarded the jet, Maya couldn''t help but marvel at the sheer luxury of it. She had never traveled in a private ne before, and it was an experience that left her both in awe and gratitude.

    Just as she finished texting Liam and letting him know she was flying with Evelyn and Derek, Evelyn settled into the seat across from her.

    "Excited?" she asked with a broad smile since she had noticed the way Maya had been looking around earlier when they just boarded Maya nodded, unable to suppress her grin. "Very. Thank you for letting me join you."

    Evelyn waved it off. "It''s no trouble at all. It seems like fate that we''re all heading to Hu at the same time."

    Maya tilted her head thoughtfully. "Who knows? Maybe it is."

    Evelyn smiled as she stole a nce at Derek, who was busy speaking with the flight crew. His demeanor was calm but focused.

    She returned her attention to Maya, "So, how long are you going to be in Hu?" She asked curiously.

    "I can''t say yet, but I will let you know as soon as I''m sure," Maya promised, and Evelyn nodded before returning to her own seat.

    Alone now, Maya''s thoughts drifted to her meeting with her brother once again, and she reached for the locket around her neck.

    She hesitated for a moment before unsping it and letting it rest in her palm. She looked down at the small, delicate piece of jewelry, which was the only tangible connection she had left to her family. Her fingers brushed against the cool metal of the locket as she flipped it open, and she stared into the face of the little boy in the picture.

    There was something familiar about him that tugged at her heart, though she quickly brushed it off. She was sure she felt that way only because of the connection between them.

    Maya gazed at the picture for a long time, wanting to familiarize herself with every detail of his face so that she would easily recognize him when she saw him.Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    After staring at it for a moment, she raised her head, and her eyes met with Derek, who had just finished speaking with the flight crew and was taking his seat beside Evelyn. Her heart skipped a beat for a minute when she saw the little boy''s face in his, but she quickly looked away and discarded the thought.

    She was beginning to imagine crazy stuff because of the duration she had spent looking at the picture.

    She was certain that if she had looked up and seen Liam or any other guy there, she would have seen her brother''s face in theirs, too.

    As the jet ascended into the clouds, Maya reached for her bag and pulled out a book while still holding onto the locket.

    "How do you feel?" Evelyn asked as she linked her hand with Derek''s.

    "Excited. Anxious," he said, and she nodded.

    "You will meet her soon""" Evelyn said and then looked at him with a serious expression.

    "Do you think she might know about what happened to your parents?" Evelyn asked, and Derek paused as he thought about it

    "I don''t know. I''m not sure. She was only a baby then..."

    "But thedy that raised her might have told her, don''t you think so?" Evelyn asked, and Derek sighed.

    "Maybe. I''m sure we will find out soon," he said, and she yawned as she gave him a nod.

    "Why don''t you try to get some rest?" Derek suggested since he had noticed her dozing during the drive to the airport earlier, and she had been yawning a lot.

    He couldn''t me her since she had woken up earlier than usual and had been up for hours thanks to his nightmares.

    "Will you be okay?" She asked, not bothering to deny that she needed to rest.

    "Sure. I need to think, too""" he said as he gathered her close so that

    she was resting against him.

    Evelyn sighed as she leaned into him. "Alright."

    She shut her eyes to sleep, but after trying unsessfully to find afortable position, she gave up.

    "Why don''t you go sleep on the bed?" He suggested.

    "But I want to stay close to you," she said with a pout, and Derek smiled despite himself.

    "I will cuddle you until you sleep off," Derek said as he rose and he escorted her to the sleeping area.

    "Let me know if you get bored and need me to keep youpany," she offered as they bothy on the bed.

    "Sure," he said with a smile, kissing her forehead as she snuggled against him.

    Derek held her close and waited until she had fallen asleep before leaving her to return to his seat.

    As Derek returned to his seat, his gaze fell on the locket in Maya''s hand, and he froze mid-step.

    Something about the small, worn locket caught his attention again, as it had the night before, and he remembered seeing something simr in his dream.

    Maya, sensing his gaze, nced up. "Did you need something?" she asked, quickly closing her book and setting it aside.

    Derek shook his head, his voiceing out quieter than he intended. "No, it''s just... that locket. May I... see it?"

    Maya hesitated, her fingers instinctively clutching the locket tighter. "Why?"

    He rubbed the back of his neck, offering her an awkward smile.

    "I''m not sure. It just looks so familiar, and it keeps catching my attention."

    Something in his tone made Maya pause. Her eyes softened, and she held it out to him. "It''s the only connection I have left to my family," she said, and Derek took the locket

    with a reverence that surprised even

    him.

    He studied the intricate design, his thumb brushing over the tiny scratches that had umted over the years. When he opened it, his breath caught.

    Inside was a picture of a young boy with a mischievous grin standing beside two smiling adults. The faces were unmistakable.

    They were the people he had dreamt about- his parents and himself.

    He stared at the locket, his hands trembling slightly. "This... this is me"" he whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he looked from the picture to Maya. Maya''s heart pounded as she processed his words. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice barely audible.

    He turned the locket toward her, pointing to the picture. "That''s

    me. And those are my biological parents. Where... where did you get this?" His voice cracked as he looked at her, his eyes filled with disbelief and hope.

    She had said it was the only connection she had left to her family.

    He didn''t want to believe that Maya was his sister and had been right under his nose this whole time, and he did not know it.

    But at the same time, it made sense that she was the one. What were the chances that she had the key that had helped him unlock his memory? Or that they were both making impromptu trips to Hu? Maya''s lips parted, but no words came out. She felt like the world had tilted on its axis. She took the locket back, staring at the picture as if seeing it for the first time.

    Her mind raced through a thousand possibilities. Only a short while ago, she had looked into Derek''s face and thought he looked like her brother, and here he was, saying he was the one in the picture. Derek was her brother? Her elder brother? The sister she had overheard them talking about was her?

    How did that make any sense? Maya mused as she looked at him again. "This is you?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

    Derek nodded slowly, his throat too tight to speak. "How... how do you have this, Maya?" His voice was barely above a whisper, as though he was afraid of the answer.

    Tears welled up in Maya''s eyes, "These are my biological parents and my elder brother, she admitted, tears dropping from her eyes.

    Evelyn, who had decided to use the restroom before going to sleep and had been observing the exchange silently, gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.

    Neither of them heard her or noticed her presence. The words hung in the air, heavy with emotion and disbelief.

    Derek stared at Maya, his mind

    reeling. He wanted to say

    something, anything, but all he could

    do was pull her into a tight embrace, his heart pounding against hers. "Maya"" he whispered, his voice breaking. "It''s really you."

    Maya broke into a sob as she clung to him, "I can''t believe this"" she cried.

    Tears streamed down Evelyn''s cheeks as she watched the reunion, overwhelmed by the moment. She pressed her hand to her lips to keep from sobbing. She couldn''t believe that Maya, who had been living with her all these years, was Derek''s blood sister.

    Maya was indeed family, after all.

 Chapter 202

    Derek and Maya remained in each other''s embrace, their hearts beating in sync as the intensity of the moment enveloped them.

    Everything else around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the warmth of their connection and the unspoken words that lingered between them.

    Evelyn carefully stepped back into the sleeping area, not wanting to get in the way or interrupt their reunion. Her heart was at ease, knowing that Derek''s sister was Maya, whom they already considered family. After what felt like forever, Derek pulled away to look into Maya''s face. The face he had gotten used to without knowing was his sisters.

    He opened his mouth to say something but then closed it when something else came to mind. They were still on their way to Hu when they should have been heading back to Ludus.

    "Give me a moment. I need to speak to the pilot," he said, and Maya nodded.

    "I suppose you want to tell him we''re turning around"" Maya said awkwardly, and Derek nodded.

    "Yeah. I''ll be right back. We have so much to talk about," Derek said before going to inform the pilot that there was a change of ns.

    As Maya returned to her seat and waited for Derek to return, tears slid down her cheeks, and her lips curved in a shaky smile. Her mind drifted to her thoughts that morning.

    Who would''ve thought that Evelyn was going to be her sister-inw, that Samantha, whom she had nurtured since she was a baby, was actually her niece, and that she was expecting another niece or nephew?

    To think she had raised her brother''s child without even realizing it brought fresh drops of tears to her face. Like Samantha, she had also met her brother on her first day in Ludus without realizing it.

    She looked up when Derek joined her again, and she sniffled. "I still can''t believe it. You''re really my brother?" She asked as Derek took the seat opposite her.

    "I''m still trying to believe it myself, but I''m d it''s you," Derek said as he reached out and brushed the tears from her cheeks.

    "You remember this?" Maya asked, referring to the locket since it was what had drawn Derek''s attention.

    "Not entirely. It just seemed so familiar when I saw it on youst night, and I couldn''t tell why. And then I had a dream, and I saw something simr," Derek said, and Maya looked down at the locket. "Perhaps you would have known if I had taken it out earlier.

    Yesterday was the first time I took it out since I received it from myte mother," she exined.

    "What did she tell you? And how long have you been searching for me?" Derek asked, and Maya took a deep breath, gathering her

    thoughts.

    "I only just started searching for you. I wasn''t sure you would remember me or that you would want me to be involved in your life. But for some reason, I just felt the urge to find you," she said, and Derek leaned back, his eyes locked on hers. "Have you always known about me?" he asked, and Maya shook her head.

    "I only learned about you some years ago when my mom, the woman who raised me, was dying. She told me the truth that she wasn''t my birth mother and that my parents had died in a car crash when I was just a baby, and she had taken my brother to the orphanage home because she didn''t have the means to care for us both."

    Her voice cracked, but she pushed on. "She gave me this locket and told me it was the only thing left of my real family, and I was holding on to it when she found me. All this while, I hadn''t thought of finding my brother even though I had the information I needed to find him, but after receiving so much love from you and Evelyn, I decided to find my brother- if he was even alive. I never imagined it would be you, Derek. I didn''t think I''d ever find you," she said as fresh tears flowed from her eyes.

    "I''m sorry I didn''t find you all this while. I can''t imagine how tough things must have been for you," Derek said softly.

    "I always knew I was adopted, but I knew nothing about you. I totally lost the memory of my life before the ident. I only found out about your existence recently, and that''s why I started searching for you," Derek said, and Maya nodded, understanding that he had only been a kid then. "Betterte than never, right?" She asked, and Derek took a shaky breath, his gaze softening as he nodded.

    "Tell me everything, Maya. I want to know everything. Tell me about your mom. How did she find us?" Derek asked, curious to know how she had taken them out of the car wreck.

    "She said she was returning home alone from ate night shift when she saw the car. It was burning, but my brother... you were seated away from the car with me in your arms, crying. We were both crying and terrified. She said she couldn''t ignore the cries, so she got out to help. She said our parents were already gone by the time she got there. She couldn''t save them..." Maya paused, her voice trembling as she wiped away her tears.

    Although Derek was confused about how he got out of the car with Maya, he knew Maya wouldn''t have the answer since she was telling the story as she had been told.

    "She took us home that night because she feared I wouldn''t survive the night without immediate care. She nned to take both of us in, but her circumstances were dire. She barely had enough to feed herself, let alone two children. So, the next morning, she took you to the local orphanage and kept me. She said it broke her heart to separate us, but she thought you''d have a better chance at life through the orphanage."

    Derek leaned forward, his voice filled with quiet intensity. "I don''t me her for that. It must ve been an impossible choice for her.

    But she saved our lives. Without her, neither of us would be here today."

    Maya nodded a bittersweet smile on her face. "She was a good woman, Derek. She raised me despite her husband''s objection and gave me everything she could. I loved her deeply, and I miss her every day."

    Derek reached across the table and took her hands in his. "I wish I could ve met her. She sounds like a remarkable woman." "She was," Maya whispered, squeezing his hands.

    "Things must have been tough for you after her death," he said, and Maya nodded.

    "Her husband-made life difficult for me, but thankfully, Evelyn showed up and employed me as her live-in nanny, and I have been with her

    since then," Maya said, and

    then

    smiled, "Evelyn is going to be so

    shocked when she finds out I''m your

    sister."

    Derek smiled, "Yes. And she brought you to me without knowing," Derek said, his heart filled with gratitude for Evelyn.

    "Life is quite unpredictable"" Maya said thoughtfully, "I never would have imagined that something like this would happen. I was still in awe of your rtionship with Samantha, and now this," she said, and Derek squeezed her hand.

    He knew he should probably tell her

    how their parents'' died, but he

    wasn''t sure.n now was the time to get into that. He would get to it

    eventually, but for now, he justel.ne

    wanted them to savor this moment before bringing that unpleasantness into the picture.

    They spent the next few hours talking about their lives before now, crying, smiling, andughing happily at being reunited.

    As the jet prepared tond, Derek rose. "I should check on Evelyn.

    I''ll join you shortly," he said, his voice soft.

    Maya nodded. "You should," she said, wondering what Evelyn''s reaction would be when she heard about her being Derek''s sister. Yeah. She was Derek''s sister. She mused, a smile gracing her lips again. No matter the number of times she said it, it still amazed her.

    As she watched Derek go, she wondered what Liam''s reaction be when she told him. What about Derek''s and Evelyn''s parents?

    She was going to think about all thatter. What mattered now was that she had found her brother, and he was someone who had already considered her family, so she didn''t need to be scared of being rejected by him.

    As Derek walked into the sleeping area, he was surprised to find Evelyn sitting up, wide awake, her eyes red-rimmed but steady. She looked at him, her expression unreadable.

    "How long have you been awake? Are you okay? Why are you crying?" he asked with a concerned frown as he joined her and took her hands.

    "I''m okay. I just couldn''t sleep," she said and embraced Derek.

    Derek hugged her back, "I need to tell you something," Derek said softly, but Evelyn pulled back to look into his face.

    "I know," she said, her voice trembling. "I overheard everything."

    "You did?" he asked, surprised, and she gave him a nod.

    "I''m so happy for you, Derek. I''m happy for Maya, too. It''s just so incredible that you''re both siblings. I still can''t wrap my head around it," she said as tears slid down her cheeks, and Derek brushed her tears off. "You made this possible, baby. You''ve been caring for my sister this whole time," he said, his voice trembling with emotion.

    "She has been the one caring for Sam and me," Evelyn said as she embraced Derek again. "And I''m sorry," she said, and Derek frowned.

    "What for?" He asked, confused.

    "I realize now why you were looking at her ne. I can''t believe I..."

    "Let''s not talk about that. It''s in the past," he said, kissing her lightly and hugging her again.

    "Thank you," he murmured after a while.

    "What for?" Evelyn asked, confused.

    "For everything. Thank you for bringing Samantha and Maya into my life. You gave me aplete family," he said, feeling even more grateful than ever. Evelyn''s face broke into a small, teary smile. "It wasn''t me, Derek.

    The universe is in favor of you. That''s why they sent Maya to me," she said, pulling back to look at his face.

    "You should go back to her. She needs her brother after being

    separated from you for so long," Evelyn urged, and Derek nodded.

    "Come with me. Let''s go together," Derek said, and although Evelyn was reluctant to join them, Derek took her with him.

    As Derek and Evelyn walked in, Maya looked up, and as soon as she saw Evelyn, she rose, and her tears started afresh. "I... Derek... he''s..."Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn covered the distance and enveloped her in a hug. "It''s okay, Maya," she whispered. "I know everything, and I''m happy for you.

    I''m happy for you both."

    The two women cried in each other''s arms while Derek stood silently nearby, watching with gratitude and love. His eyes teared up as he watched them, and he walked over and embraced them both.

    They all settled in their seats when the pilot announced that they were about tond, and each of them struggled topose themselves.

    As the jet descended, they were all filled with gratitude for the way fate had brought them together, hope, and the anticipation of whaty ahead.

    The events of the past hours had been nothing short of miraculous, and the bonds they had discovered nurtured, and reinforced during the flight marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives- one filled with promise and healing.

 Chapter 203

    Chapter

    203

    The drive to the house was silent as all three of them processed the discovery.

    As Derek drove, his mind raced with thoughts of how to tell Maya about their parent''s murder and how to go about finding out what happened to their parents.

    Maya, on the other hand, was thinking about how to break the news to Liam. She wondered if she should tell him over the phone or in person. She wanted to see the shock on his face, Maya thought with a small smile.

    Evelyn also was filled with thoughts of her own. She was amazed by how fate had brought them all together.

    It was amazing how she ended up with Michael''s cousin on her way from his ce after being betrayed by him and how she also ended up taking in Derek''s sister.

    Evelyn paused when something urred to her, and she turned in her seat to look at Maya, who was in the back seat, "Did you have another reason for going to Hu? Why were you going to Hu when you could have both met here in Ludus?" Evelyn asked, and Derek looked at Maya through the rearview mirror.

    "I thought my brother was most likely in Hu, and I didn''t want to make him travel such a long distance to find me," Maya exined with a small smile. "I''m d we were all saved from this unnecessary trip; otherwise, it would have been very awkward after wandering around Hu aimlessly," she said, and Derek nodded.

    "We almost made a pointless trip. I''m d we found out before we got there," he said, thinking about what a waste of time it would''ve been to arrive at Hu with Maya only to realize it was her all along.

    "It''s all thanks to Evelyn for suggesting I fly with you," Maya said, and Derek nodded while Evelyn smiled happily.

    "I''m d I could be of service," she said with a proud smile.

    "By the way, Maya, were you the onemunicating directly with the orphanage home?" Derek asked, meeting her gaze through the rearview mirror.

    Maya shook her head. "No. A friend was helping me" she said, hoping they wouldn''t probe further. Not wanting to give them a chance to ask her any question, she changed the subject, "When I was told you didn''t want to reveal your identity, I figured you were someone important. I never would have imagined it was you," Maya said with a sigh, still overwhelmed by the revtion.

    Evelyn looked at Maya again. "Why didn''t you tell me about your reason for traveling?" she asked, partially disappointed that Maya had kept something of that magnitude from her instead of asking her to help.

    Maya looked away briefly before meeting Evelyn''s gaze again, "I didn''t tell you about it because I wasn''t sure how the meeting would go. I didn''t want to get my hopes up and tell you about it only to find out my brother doesn''t want to have anything to do with me." Evelyn''s expression softened. "Why would you ever think something like that?"

    Maya shrugged, "It sounded like he was someone important."

    "And you don''t think you are?" Derek asked softly.

    "I just didn''t want to have high expectations," she said, and Evelyn sighed.

    "I hope you start having high expectations now, Maya," Derek said, and Maya nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude.

    "Thank you. Both of you," Maya said, feeling very grateful and happy about the twist in her life right now.

    Once they got to the house, they unpacked their bags from the car, and as they all went to their bedrooms, they agreed to meet again in thirty minutes for dinner.

    The moment Derek and Evelyn walked into their bedroom, Evelyn looked at Derek skeptically, "Do you need me here? Or do you need a moment alone? I could excuse you," She offered, knowing that Derek would need a moment to himself to think and put himself together.

    Derek turned to her with a soft smile. Although he had been thinking of being alone, now that she asked, he realized he didn''t want her to leave him.

    "I want to be alone, but I also want you here," he admitted, and she smiled.

    "What do you want me to do?" She asked, and he held out his arms.

    "Hug me. Hold me"" he said, and she nodded as she stepped forward and embraced him.

    Derek buried his face in the crook of her neck, and he finally let the tears he had been holding back for hours flow freely now in the sanctuary of their bedroom.

    His body shook as he sobbed silently, heartbroken by all that Maya had told him she had endured over the years while he lived in affluence.

    He was broken by the thought that all these years he had partially held a grudge against his parents for making him adopt their dead son''s identity, without realizing that they had done it out of love and concern for his wellbeing regardless of how it affected them. Evelyn held back her tears as she patted his back, muttering words offort to him and assuring him that everything was going to be okay now.

    After crying for some time, Derek remembered that they had to go have dinner with Maya, so he did his best to pull himself together.

    After he hadposed himself, he pulled back to look at Evelyn.N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    "Thank you," he murmured, and she smiled as she brushed the tears from his face.

    "There is nothing to thank me for. I''m grateful that you let me stay with you," she said softly.

    "I didn''t tell her about the murder," he said, and Evelyn nodded.

    "I know. That wasn''t exactly the time to tell her all of it. How are

    you feeling? Do you think we should go get Samantha, or should we wait until tomorrow?" Evelyn asked since it was almost 8 p.m.

    already.

    "She is probably in bed already. We can get her tomorrow. I''m exhausted and having a headache," he said, and Evelyn nodded as she raised herself on her toes and kissed his forehead.

    "Let''s quickly freshen up for dinner, and then you can get some rest, Evelyn suggested, and Derek nodded.

    For tonight, he was going to enjoy having his sister with him, and tomorrow, he would tell her exactly what he believed happened to their parents and maybe together they could figure out a way to find out why their parents had been murdered.

    Away from there in Maya''s bedroom, the moment she walked inside and shut the door behind her, she dialed Liam''s line.

    "Maya?" Liam called in surprise as he received the call, wondering how she was able to talk to him when she was on the ne to Hu. Maya smiled, "Yeah. It''s me."

    "What sort of ne did you travel on to have arrived already?" He asked, and Maya giggled.

    "I''m back in Ludus""" she said, and Liam raised a brow.

    "You are? Why? Did the ne break down in the air?" He asked, and sheughed, wondering if Liam was always this funny or if she was just in a good mood and was finding everything he was saying funny. "There was no need to continue the trip. I found him. My brother," she said, her heart fluttering as she said the words out loud to him.

    "You found him? What are you talking about? Last I checked, I''m the onemunicating with the orphanage, not you," Liam said, and Maya smiled.

    "Can we meet tomorrow? I''ll tell you all about it when I see you tomorrow. I want to tell you in person," she suggested.

    "We can see tomorrow, but I don''t

    think I can wait until tomorrow to

    hear whatever it is you have to say. I don''t mind hearing about it over the phone. Don''t tell me you told Evelyn and that guy about it, and they helped you find him?" Liam asked, not liking the thought that Derek might have beaten him to it and helped Maya find her brother.

    Maya giggled, "Well, something like that. I''ll tell you about it tomorrow," she said, and Liam scowled.

    "How about I drive over there?" he suggested.

    Maya nced at the clock and bit her lip, "It''s almost 8 p.m." she pointed out.

    "I''m the oneing over, not you. You can either tell me over the phone or let mee and hear it from you in person. Do you know how hurtful it is to my ego that first he stole Evelyn from me, and.

    he''s trying to prove that he''s &

    reliable than I am by beating me in helping you find your brother?" Liam asked, and Maya giggled.

    "It''s not a contest. And I doubt he would have been able to help me figure it out had you not started the process with the orphanage," she said, and Liam snorted.

    "It is a contest. And for all you know, he found the wrong person.

    How can you be so sure he found the right person? You haven''t met your brother yet, have you?" Liam asked, and Maya giggled.

    "I''ve met my brother," she said, and he paused.

    "I''ming over. I''ll call you when I get close to the house, and you cane out to talk to me," he said. Not wanting her to argue or discourage him, he quickly hung up the call.

    Mayaughed softly as she dropped her phone on the bed and quickly went in to freshen up.

    By the time she got downstairs for dinner, Derek and Evelyn were both seated already. Despite the sumptuous dinner that was served on the table, neither Derek nor Maya had the appetite to eat.

    They both picked at their food in silence, each feeling full and too exhausted to eat. Evelyn, on the other hand, ate with zest until she noticed that they were both not eating.

    "I guess I''m the only hungry person here," she observed, and Derek looked up, startled out of his thoughts.

    "Sorry. I didn''t mean to kill the mood." He pushed his te away slightly, folding his hands on the table. "I''m just... processing everything."

    Evelyn reached over, cing a gentle hand on his. "You don''t have to apologize, Derek. I understand."

    Maya nodded. "Yeah, it''s a lot to take in. It still feels unreal." She smiled shyly, trying to lighten the mood.

    Derek''s lips curved into a faint smile. "It feels unreal for me, too," he admitted, "but in a good way."

    Evelyn took a sip of her water, her gaze shifting between them. "It''s going to take time. But you both have found each other, and that''s what matters."

    Maya nodded, her smile growing. Derek cleared his throat, breaking the moment. "You should try to eat something, even if it''s just a little. It''s been a long day, and you will need our strength for tomorrow." Evelyn grinned yfully. "You sound like a big brother already."

    Derek and Mayaughed. "Well, I guess I''ll have to practice. I''ve got a sister to look after now."

    Before Maya could say anything, her phone buzzed with a phone call from Liam, and her heart skipped a beat as she wondered how she was going to tell them she was going outside to meet with someone. She cleared her throat. "Uhm, do you mind if I step outside for a while? I need to talk to my friend, the one who was helping me," Maya exined awkwardly.

    "Oh, that''s nice. Why not invite your friend inside?" Evelyn asked

    with a wide smile, eager to see Maya''s friend.

    Maya smiled shyly, "I don''t think he would want toe in right now. Maybe some other time," she said, and Evelyn exchanged a look with Derek, who nodded. "Alright. We will talk tomorrow," he said, resisting the urge to ask her to be careful.

    Maya nodded as she pushed away from the table and quickly walked away to go meet Liam.

 Chapter 204

    Maya''s heart raced as she walked down the blocks to meet Liam at the spot where he had parked his car. She felt both excited and nervous at the same time since this was the first time she was sneaking around thiste. Liam opened the door and got out as she got close to the car. "I was beginning to think you weren''t going toe out," he said, watching her approach.

    Maya rolled her eyes yfully. "Why couldn''t you just listen and wait until tomorrow?" She asked as she stopped in front of him.

    "In case you haven''t noticed. I''m a very curious person. I wouldn''t be able to do anything else until I find out what happened," he said, and sheughed.

    "So, what would you have done if I didn''t show up? Go back home and wait until tomorrow? Ore knock at the door?" She asked dryly as she rubbed her arms.

    She had stepped out of the house wearing shorts and a tank top and hadn''t realized that the evening air was chilly.

    "Let''s be d you came and saved me the trouble of doing either of those," he said as he went around the car to open the passenger door for her to get in.

    "You made me lie to Evelyn and sneak around like a silly teenager," she said with a scowl as she got in and sat down.

    Liam raised a brow as he shut the door but said nothing until he went around and got into the driver''s seat. "They came back, too?

    Didn''t you say they were traveling together, and you joined them?

    Did you even board the ne at all, like you told me?" Liam asked once they were both settled inside.

    "You have so many questions. Yes, they are back. Yes, they were traveling together, and I joined them. Yes, we boarded the ne, as I told you. Any other questions?" Maya asked, and Liam chuckled.

    "Spill it. Tell me exactly what happened as it happened," he urged her.

    Maya grinned, "Well," she started slowly, "after our phone call, I went to inform Evelyn that I was going on an impromptu trip to Hu..."

    "Maya, you can skip that part. I know about that from the text you sent me," Liam pleaded, knowing she was dragging it out slowly to torment him.

    Maya giggled, "Okay. So, I was on the ne. It was so beautiful.

    This was my first time on a private jet, she said, and Liam groaned, making herugh again.

    "Okay. Sorry. So, while I was seated in the ne, I was looking at this" she said, reaching for the locket around her neck again. "I wanted to familiarize myself with my brother''s face. I wanted to see if I would be able to recognize him easily when I meet the adult version of him," she said, and Liam nodded.

    "I suppose either Evelyn or Derek saw the picture and knew the people inside?" He asked, and Maya grinned.

    "Yes. But will you slow down and let me get to that?" She asked, her heart racing as she thought about how it happened again, reliving that incredible moment in her head.

    "Okay. Fine. Get on with it," he said, and she smiled.

    "When I looked up after staring at the picture for a long time, my gaze fell on Derek, and he looked like the adult version..."

    Liam chuckled, "Don''t tell me you went to him and told him that."

    Mayaughed, "I didn''t. But then a short whileter... wait. I skipped something," she said, and Liam covered his face with his hands as he groaned.

    "Rx" she said, giggling, "It''s just thatst night Derek seemed interested in my ne during dinner," she said, and Liam frowned as he started to piece her words together.

    "Is this going where I''m thinking?" He asked, not wanting to believe it.

    That would be too much of a coincidence. What were the chances? No. It didn''t even make any sense.

    Maya smiled, and tears gathered in her eyes as she bobbed her head, seeing that Liam was figuring it out, "Yes, Liam," she said with a shaky smile, "Derek is my biological brother," she said, as the tears dropped from her eyes.

    Liam''s jaw dropped, and for a moment, he stared at her as she smiled and wept, unable to believe it. It was just too unbelievable.

    "Maya, you''re saying Derek is your brother?" He asked softly, and Maya bobbed her head.

    "He is. He''s this little boy in the picture. He saw it and said so himself," she said, her voice trembling with both joy and disbelief.

    "I still can''t believe it. It still feels as though I''m dreaming."

    Liam leaned back in his seat, gripping the steering wheel tightly.

    He exhaled deeply as if trying to process what she had just told him. "Wow," he said finally, his voice low. "That''s... huge, Maya. I don''t even know what to say."

    Maya wiped her tears quickly with the back of her hand, her smile growing. "Neither did I, at first. I mean, imagine finding out like that. On a ne, of all ces!" Sheughed softly, the sound filled with a mixture of relief and excitement. Liam turned to look at her, his face still painted with disbelief. "So, what did he do? Did he hug you? Did you both cry like in those reunion shows? Was it awkward?"

    Maya chuckled, shaking her head at his weird question. "For some reason, it wasn''t exactly awkward. It was just shocking. And yes, he hugged me, and we cried," she said, her voice hitching.

    Liam shook his head, his lips curved in a smile. "And Evelyn? Was she there for this whole exchange?"

    "Not at first. But she joined us, and she wept, too. She was so happy. Can you imagine that they were both going to find me and I was going to find him? It''s all just so..."

    "Insane," Liampleted her sentence, shaking his head, "This is insane. It''s like something out of a movie, he said, a small smile

    tugging at his lips."

    "I know!" Maya agreed, her hands waving animatedly. "I cried like a baby, Liam. I just couldn''t hold it back, no matter how much I wanted to. I was so overwhelmed."

    Liam softened, watching her with an affectionate smile. "I don''t me you. This is a life-changing moment, Maya."Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    Maya nodded, "It is. Of all people in the world, my brother just happened to be Derek Stone-Samantha''s father. Like, I''ve been taking care of my niece this whole time. They''re my family, Liam. Evelyn is going to be my sister-inw, she said, giggling when Liam scowled at her yfully.

    "I suppose you were right about Evelyn and Derek being meant to be, after all, he said, and she nodded.

    "Yes. So, have you made up your mind to call Evelyn?" She asked, and Liam sighed.

    "I nned on calling her this weekend. I will. But let''s not talk about that right now. Let''s talk about you. We should celebrate," he said as Maya grinned.

    "Why do I feel like you''re looking for an excuse to hang out with me?" She asked with a teasing smile.

    "Because I am And I also want to celebrate with you. I''m d you found your family, and I''m happy you''ve seen that all your worries

    about your brother possibles et

    not

    t," he said,

    wanting you were irrelevant," he and she nodded as her lips curved with a smile.

    "I asked Derek why he didn''t want to reveal his identity while searching for me. He said they didn''t want a situation where word of it would get out and people would start calling and iming to be his sister she said, and Liam nodded.

    "That makes sense. So, what happens now? Have you two talked about the future?" Liam asked, and Maya hesitated, her expression turning serious.

    "What''s there to talk about? We talked, but this is still sinking in for both of us. It is a lot to process, you know?" She asked, and Liam sighed. "Yeah. You''re right," he said with a nod. He then reached over and gently touched her shoulder.

    "I''m happy for you, Maya. I''m d it turned out this way," Liam said, and Maya looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with gratitude. "Thank you, Liam. You''ve been so helpful. Thanks for being a friend I didn''t know I needed," she said, and Liam waved it off.

    "I actually need this friendship more than you," he said, and she smiled.

    "Maybe you can be friends with my brother now," she suggested, and he groaned softly.

    "He''s so lucky to have you and Evelyn," he said, and she grinned.

    "We are lucky to have him, too. I should head back now. If you want, we can hang out sometime soon. But instead of waiting until the weekend to talk to Evelyn, I think you should talk to her tomorrow," she suggested.

    "Tomorrow is Friday, Maya. It''s the weekend already. Don''t worry. I will talk to her. I will drop you off, he said, looking her over.

    Maya let out a deep breath, her heart feeling light. "No, I can go alone."

    "I''m not letting you go alone. Apart from the fact that it''s dark, it''s cold, and you''re not exactly covered well," he said, and Maya hesitated for a moment before giving him a nod.

    As Liam started the car, he nced at her again. "Maya?"

    "Yeah?"

    "This is the beginning of something incredible. Don''t let anything hold you back, okay?"

    Maya smiled, her chest swelling with hope. "I won''t. Thank you, Liam."

    He gave her a small nod before pulling away from the curb. As they drove through the quiet estate, covering the short distance, Maya leaned back in her seat, holding the locket tightly in her hand.

    Once they got to the front of the

    house, Liam parked the car and turned to her, "I would havee out to get the door, but I don''t want

    them to see me," he said as he leaned towards her to open

    Without thinking, Maya leaned forward and pressed her lips to his before he could lean back.

    Liam blinked at her in surprise, but before he could say anything, she got out of the car quickly and ran off without saying a word to him.

 Chapter 205

    Maya''s heart was pounding as she hurried up the stairs to her bedroom, her legs moving faster than her mind could process.

    The kiss- the soft, unnned kiss lingered on her lips like a spark refusing to burn out.

    She pushed open her bedroom door and stepped inside, shutting it quietly behind her.

    The room was dimly lit by the moonlight spilling through the window. Her breathing was uneven, and her chest rose and fell with a rhythm she couldn''t control.

    She leaned against the door, her fingers brushing over her lips as if trying to convince herself it had actually happened.

    "What did I just do?" she whispered, her voice trembling. She dropped her hand and crossed the room, her steps slow and uncertain.

    Sinking onto the edge of her bed, Maya stared at the floor, her mind racing. Her cheeks were warm, and her stomach churned with a mixture of exhration and dread. The memory of Liam''s wide, surprised eyes shed in her mind.

    He hadn''t even had the chance to react.

    She buried her face in her hands, groaning softly. "Why did I do that?" she muttered. It wasn''t like her to act so impulsively, so... boldly.

    She reyed the moment in her head- how natural it had felt to lean in, how she hadn''t even stopped to consider the consequences or the fact that Liam was in love with Evelyn.

    She fell back onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling. Her heart still raced, refusing to settle. A small smile tugged at the corner of her lips despite her turmoil.

    That fleeting moment had felt perfect, as though it had been waiting to happen all along.

    Still, uncertainty crept in. What if she had ruined the friendship between them with her thoughtless action?

    She was nothing like Evelyn. Evelyn was a brilliant, aplisheddy. How would he drop from wanting Evelyn to someone like her?

    Until now, she had been just a mere nanny with no college degree or anything special to her name. Who was she to think that someone like Liam would be interested in her?

    The thought made her chest tighten, and she rolled onto her side, hugging a pillow to herself.

    "I''ll just pretend it didn''t happen," she mumbled to herself. But even as she said the words, she knew it would be impossible to forget her first kiss.

    Outside the house, Liam remained in his seat, staring at the front yard of the house with surprise. His mind was a chaotic whirlwind of thoughts, all centered on one thing: Maya had kissed him.

    He let out a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding, his lips pressing together. The feeling of her lips on his still lingered, soft and electric. He could still see her wide, nervous eyes as she''d pulled away and bolted from the car. She hadn''t said a word, leaving him stunned and frozen in ce.

    "Did that really just happen?" he murmured, ncing at his reflection in the rearview mirror as though it might give him answers.

    The warmth in his chest spread outward, mixing with the disbelief and confusion swirling inside him. He hadn''t seen iting-hadn''t expected her to close the gap between them so suddenly, so fearlessly. But she had, and now he couldn''t stop thinking about it.

    A small, amused smile tugged at his lips as he started the car and pulled away from the driveway.

    As he drove home, he thought of her. Maya was unpredictable and utterly captivating in a way he had not expected

    He never would have imagined being in such a situation with Maya, but something about it didn''t feel wrong.

    That kiss, brief as it had been, seemed natural. It hadn''t felt calcted or hesitant. It had felt genuine.

    He shook his head, chuckling softly under his breath. "Maya," he said aloud, the sound of her name grounding him.

    But then another thought crept in, uninvited. What if he was reading too much meaning into the kiss? What if it had been a mistake? What if it had been a spur-of-the-moment action born

    from the high emotions of the evening?

    He sighed, his grip on the wheel loosening as he pulled up to a red light. "Don''t overthink it, Liam," he told himself firmly.

    But how could he not?

    He thought back to the way she''d smiled at him tonight, her gratitude for his support shining in her eyes. The way she''d leaned on him, trusted him, opened up to him. Did it mean something more? Or was he reading too much into it? And what about him? Was he interested in her that way? Had he moved on from Evelyn already? Or was he just distracting himself?

    By the time he reached his driveway, his emotions were a tangled mess. Excitement, confusion, hope, and fear swirled together, making it impossible to settle on one.

    Liam killed the engine and sat in the dark car for a moment, staring out at the quiet street. He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling deeply.

    Deciding to give Maya a call and let her know that he had gotten home, he dialed her line.

    The phone rang a couple of times, but there was no response.

    He tried again, and when there was still no response, he sighed as he got out of the car.

    The thought of Maya pulling away- of her regretting the kiss - sent an unexpected pang through his chest.

    Back in Maya''s room, she bit her lip as she stared at her phone, too embarrassed and scared to receive Liam''s call.

    What if he wanted to scold her? What if he was mad and disappointed? Maya mused as she picked up her phone and switched it off.

    She didn''t want to face him tonight. Maybe another time. But not tonight.

    As Maya drifted off to sleep, she dreamt of Derek, Evelyn, Samantha, and Liam, who also found his way into her dreams, as he had unknowingly found his way into her heart.

    Evelyn, Derek, and Maya sat at the dining table for breakfast the next morning.

    Maya was a bundle of nerves as she poked at the slices of melon on her te, her fork moving aimlessly.

    She wasn''t hungry. Not with the embarrassing memory ofst night swirling in her mind like a storm cloud.

    In the brightness of the day, she realized that she had been out of her mindst night. Her cheeks warmed at the thought of how she had acted with Liam- throwing herself at him so recklessly. Her stomach churned as shame and regret weighed heavily on her. She had turned off her phone first thing that morning and tucked it away in her drawer. Facing Liam was a problem forter

    - after she hade up with an eptable excuse and could muster up the courage to apologize.

    For now, she needed to avoid the possibility of hearing his voice or seeing any messages from him.

    Across the table, Derek and Evelyn exchanged a silent look. Evelyn raised her eyebrows slightly as if encouraging Derek to say something. With a slight nod, Derek cleared his throat. "Maya?" His voice was soft, careful, andced with concern. "Are you okay?"

    Maya''s head jerked up, startled out of her thoughts. Forcing a smile, she met his worried gaze. "Yes," she said quickly, though her voice was quiet. "I''m fine. Just... thinking."

    Derek didn''t look convinced, and

    Evelyn tilted her head, studying

    Maya with a motherly kind of patience Before they could press further, Maya changed the subject since she didn''t want them to ask her what she was thinking about.

    She twirled her fork between her fingers and looked at Derek. "By the way," she began, her tone casual, "did your parents live in Hu before? I mean, howe they adopted you from there?"

    Derek''s expression softened as he

    leaned back his chair, rxing a

    little. "Yeah, they did. Back then, my dad was still managing thepany in Husfa. That was before he took over the headquarters here. They moved here not long after the adoption."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "So, just like you were in Hu beforeing here to take over. Funny how you both never crossed paths while you were there," she said, ncing between the two.

    Maya shook her head, a faint smile

    tugging at her lips. "How could we have crossed paths? Apart from the fact that Hu is a really big city, we don''t move in the same circles. doubt we would ever have visited the same ces," she said, matter of factly as she pointed out the

    difference in their upbringings.

    Derek''s expression shifted, a shadow of guilt flickering across his face. Evelyn noticed immediately and reached out, covering his hand with hers. She gave him a reassuring squeeze and grinned. "Well, thanks to fate- and me- you both visited the same ce.

    My life!"

    Her yful tone broke the tension, and the three of them chuckled, the mood lightening a little. Evelyn kept the conversation flowing smoothly after that, making sure they were both rxed.

    Once the tes were cleared, Evelyn exchanged another look with Derek, this time more serious. She gave him a subtle nod, signaling that it was time.

    Derek turned to Maya, his expression more solemn now. "Uhm, Maya," he started carefully, his voice tinged with hesitation.

    Maya''s eyes widened slightly. She straightened in her seat, sensing the shift in his tone. Her stomach twisted in anxiety as she looked at him curiously, suspecting he wanted to talk about something serious.

    "I need to discuss something with you," Derek continued, and she swallowed hard, nodding for him to go on.

    What was it? Did he tell his parents about her and they didn''t want someone like her in his life? She mused, her heart racing.

    "I''m listening," she said, looking from Derek to Evelyn and then back again.

    He nced at Evelyn briefly before locking eyes with Maya. "It''s about our parents."

    Maya blinked, her pulse quickening. "What about them?"

    Derek hesitated for a moment, taking a deep breath. "That night. It wasn''t an ident," he said finally. "They were murdered."

    The words hung in the air. Maya''s mouth fell open, her heart thudding loudly in her chest. "Murdered?" she whispered, the word feeling foreign on her tongue as she processed what he had just said.

    Derek nodded, his jaw tight. "Yes."

    Maya''s mind raced. "But... how? Why? Who would do something like that?"

    "I don''t know all the answers yet," Derek admitted, his voice steady but strained. "But I remember some things now. Pieces of that night areing back to me."

    Maya''s eyes widened. "You remember?"

    Derek swallowed hard, his hand tightening around Evelyn''s for support. "Not everything. But I remember enough to know it wasn''t an ident. I saw it happen." His voice faltered slightly, and Evelyn squeezed his hand again. Derek took a shaky breath as he continued to tell her about theN?velDrama.Org holds ? this.

    memory and what his mother had told him, too.

    Maya''s eyes welled up with tears as she looked at him. Just listening to him made her heart heavy with sorrow.

    Now she understood exactly why he had lost his memory. It had been too traumatic for a child his age.

    Maya stared at him, her throat tightening with emotion. "Derek...

    I''m so sorry you had to go through that." Her voice trembled as she spoke, tears dropping from her eyes.

    Derek took a shaky breath, nodding. "Now that I''ve found you, I want to know why they were murdered. I need to find answers," Derek said, and Maya nodded.

    "I want to know, too," she said, brushing the tears from her eyes.

    She wanted to know the reason her parents had been taken from her at such an early age and why she had been thrust into a life of hardship.

    Derek nodded, his resolve hardening. "We''ll find out the truth together."

    "Together," Maya echoed, her voice quiet but filled with resolve.

    Now that they had found each other, they were going to find answers together.

    Derek leaned forward, his voice softening. "I''ll need a copy of the picture in your locket. And I think we should contact the orphanage. If we know when I was brought in, it could help us find

    more clues. If your mom were alive..."

    "I know the date" Maya cut in before he could finish.

    "You do?" Derek blinked, surprised.

    "Yes. It''s my assumed birthday. My mother said she celebrates my birthday on the date she saw us," she said, and a relieved sigh escaped Derek''s lips.

    "As weird as that sounds, it''s a good start. Knowing the date and the ce where it happened would go a long way in helping us get answers," Evelyn said, and both Derek and Maya agreed. Derek nodded, his resolve hardening further. "We''ll get the answers. No matter what it takes, we will uncover the truth."

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 Chapter 206

    0

    As Derek drove toward his parents'' house, Evelyn sat quietly beside him, asionally ncing at the backseat where Maya fidgeted with her hands, her anxiety tangible.

    Maya had been silent for most of the ride, her thoughts clearly elsewhere. She was a bundle of nerves as she stared out the

    window, her eyes darting over the passingndscape but not really seeing it.

    She was anxious about being introduced to Derek''s parents as his sister. Her breath hitched slightly when Derek turned onto a quiet street lined with stately homes, the houses growingrger as they approached their destination. "Hey," Derek said softly, ncing at her in the rearview mirror. "You okay back there?"

    Maya nodded quickly, though her trembling hands betrayed her nerves. "I''m fine. I guess," she replied, her voice too high-pitched to be convincing.

    "Anxious?" Evelyn asked knowingly.

    "Very," she admitted.

    Evelyn twisted in her seat to face her, her expression warm and reassuring. "It''s normal to feel that way, Maya. But Derek''s parents are wonderful people. They''re going to love you." Maya bit her lip and shook her head. "What if they don''t? What if

    they think I''m lying or trying to take something from them?"

    Derek chuckled softly, his voice calm. "Trust me, that won''t happen. My parents aren''t like that. They''ve been waiting for this moment just as much as I have- even if they didn''t know it yet." "But-" Maya started, only for Evelyn to interrupt.

    "No buts" Evelyn said firmly, her tone gentle but decisive. "They''re going to be thrilled to meet you. You''ve been part of their lives longer than you realize. You were Samantha''s nanny, remember? They already know how amazing you are."

    Maya''s lips twitched into a faint smile at the mention of Samantha, but the tension in her shoulders didn''t ease. Derek caught her reflection in the mirror and spoke again.

    "Maya," he said softly. "You''re my sister. That''s all that matters.

    You belong here, and they''ll see that. Just give them a chance."

    Maya exhaled shakily, "I wish I could take your word for it. It''s not like I deliberately want to worry. My stomach just won''t stop jumping," she said, and both Derek and Evelyn chuckled. "Try to rx," Derek said as they pulled into the driveway of his parent''s home.

    "I will try," Maya said, swallowing hard as Derek parked the car and turned off the engine. Evelyn reached over and squeezed her hand reassuringly before they all stepped out.

    As the three of them climbed the steps to the front door, her nerves surged again as Derek unlocked the door.

    Derek led them into the warm, inviting foyer. "Wait here while I get them," he said, motioning toward the living room.

    Maya sank onto the edge of a plush armchair, her fingers gripping the armrest. Evelyn settled beside her on the couch, offering another reassuring smile. Maya tried to return it but failed as her stomach twisted in knots. Derek walked down the familiar hallway to his parents'' bedroom, his steps slowing as he reached the door. He hesitated for a moment before knocking softly.

    "Who is there?" his mother''s voice called.

    "It''s me"" Derek said.

    There was a pause before his mother spoke again, her toneced with surprise and curiosity. "Derek? What are you doing here?

    Weren''t you traveling?"

    "Can Ie in?" he asked instead of answering.

    "Of course"" she replied, and Derek pushed the door open.

    His parents were sitting together on the bed, his father reading a newspaper while his mother foldedundry. Both of them looked at him, their expressions shifting from surprise to concern when they saw the somber look on Derek''s face. "What''s wrong?" his mother asked, rising to her feet. "Why are you here? Is everything okay?"

    Without a word, Derek dropped to his knees in front of them. His

    mother gasped, and his father lowered the newspaper, his brow furrowing as he exchanged a look with his wife.

    "Derek?" his mother whispered, her voice trembling. "What''s going on? Did something happen?"

    Derek looked up at her, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I''m sorry, Mom," he said hoarsely.

    "Sorry for what?" she asked, crouching down to his level, her hands trembling as she gripped his shoulders.

    "For misunderstanding you all these years"" he said, his voice cracking. "For resenting the fact that you gave me his name. I thought you did it for the wrong reasons. I didn''t realize you were trying to protect me."

    His mother''s face crumpled, tears

    spilling down her cheeks as she shook her head vehemently. "No, Derek. You have nothing to be sorry for. Nothing. I should have exined everything to you when you were old enough to understand. I thought you had moved past it. I only realized you were still bothered by it when the scandal came up, but I was too upset to tell you the truth. I''m the

    one who''s sorry."

    Derek reached for her hands, his grip firm but gentle. "No, Mom. I was ungrateful. I''ve been an unfilial son, and I-"

    "Stop," she said, cutting him off as tears streamed down her face.

    "You''ve been the best son I could ever ask for. I''m so proud of you, Derek. Always."

    They embraced tightly, their tears mingling as they clung to each other. Derek''s father cleared his throat, breaking the emotional

    moment. "Are we done with the drama? Because I''d like to know why you''re really here when you should be on your way to Hu."

    Derek and his motherughed through their tears as they pulled back from each other. "Did you really have to ruin the mood?" Derek''s mother asked, dabbing her tears with the hem of her sleeve.

    "What was I supposed to do? Join you both?" He asked dryly before returning his attention to Derek.

    "No apology is necessary. You''re our

    son. We did what we had to do to protect you. We didn''t mind being misunderstood as long as you were safe. It''s our job to protect you, I''m d that you understand now," he said, and his wife nodded in agreement as she straightened.

    "Yes, Derek. All I''ve ever wanted is for you to be happy. I know it might not have seemed so when I tried forcing you to marry Sandra, but that was because I honestly thought Evelyn was all they painted her to be, and didn''t want you to make a mistake. All I do is because you''re my son, and I love you," his mother said softly.

    "I know that now. I understand. And I''m grateful," he said, and his father sighed.

    "So, are you going to keep kneeling? Why are you not on your way to Hu? I hope you''re not nning on taking my granddaughter away. We made ns for the weekend and next week already," He said, and Derek chuckled as he rose.

    "I came to introduce someone to you."

    "Introduce someone? Who?" his mother asked.

    "My sister. I found my her," Derek said simply.

    Both parents paused, and his mother''s eyes widened in disbelief.

    "What?" his father asked.

    "So soon? How?" His mother asked.

    "You''ll find out how soon. She''s waiting in the living room," he said, and his mother gasped, a hand flying to her mouth.

    She didn''t wait for any further exnation as she hurried past Derek and out of the room. His father followed, shaking his head in amazement.

    In the living room, Maya stiffened as Derek''s parents appeared.

    His mother''s eyesnded on Evelyn first, and she frowned. "I hope you''re not about to tell me Evelyn is your sister."

    Everyoneughed, but Maya''s nerves only heightened as their attention shifted to her. She shrank under their gazes, her hands twisting in herp. Derek stepped forward, his voice steady. "Mom, Dad, you''ve met Maya. She''s my biological sister."

    His mother''s jaw dropped, and his father looked stunned. "Maya?" his mother repeated. "Didn''t you say she was Samantha''s nanny?" "Yes," Derek said. "She''s my sister."This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .

    "How?" His mother asked, exchanging a look with her husband

    "Why don''t you sit down, and I will tell you everything?" Derek suggested, and his parents sat down.

    Derek went on to tell them all that had happened on the ne and showed them the picture in Maya''s locket.

    When he finished, his mother turned her attention to Maya, her eyes softening. She felt sorry for Maya after hearing about how she had lived until now. Before she could speak, Maya leaned forward in her seat, "I know this is unexpected and quite unbelievable. I don''t mind a DNA test," she offered quietly. Derek''s mother smiled, "Just to be sure, a DNA test will be done.

    But regardless of that, I''ve heard so much about you from Samantha, and even if you weren''t Derek''s biological sister, I think you''re family."

    "I agree. I have always known I was meant to have a daughter.

    Who knew it would take this long to have one?" Derek''s father asked with a smile.

    "Two you mean? We have Evelyn too, and a granddaughter," his wife corrected, and they allughed.

    Maya''s eyes filled with tears as Derek''s mother rose from her seat and extended a hand to her. "DNA or not, you''re family now," Derek''s mother said, her voice warm. "Wee home." When Maya rose to take her hand, Derek''s mother embraced her

    instead, and Maya broke into a sob, overwhelmed by their easy eptance.

    Derek exchanged a look with Evelyn, and they both smiled, relieved that his parents had not disappointed them.

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 Chapter 207

    The sunlight streamed through the hospital window as Ethan sat upright in bed, ring at his brother, Melvin, who reclined in a chair nearby.

    Ethan''s injured arm was propped on a pillow, still in a sling. His lips pressed into a thin line, and his irritation was as visible as the tension in his shoulders. "I''m done with this ce""" Ethan dered, his tone irritable. "I feel fine. They should discharge me already."

    Melvin looked up from his phone, one eyebrow raised. "You can''t even use your arm yet. What do you n to do- telepathically open doors and feed yourself?"

    "That''s exactly why I need to leave," Ethan shot back. "If I were home, Rayna could work from there while taking care of me, and we''d get to spend some more time together. But no, I''m stuck here with you, and she''s out dealing with business." Melvin snorted, shaking his head. "You sound like a lovesick puppy."

    Ethan''s scowl softened slightly, his lips twitching into a reluctant smile. "I''m not sure about the puppy part, but yeah, I''m lovesick."

    Melvin chuckled, leaning forward. "You''ve got it bad, huh? She''ll be back soon. You can survive a few hours without her."

    Ethan sighed and leaned back against the pillows. "I know. But

    that doesn''t make me miss her any less."

    "What do you n to do when your arm gets better and you have to go to work and be away for months?" Melvin asked, and Ethan sighed deeply.

    "I''ve been wondering the same thing. It''s... weird. I never expected to feel this way. I didn''t n on falling for the woman I nned to marry. Now the thought of being away from her for too long makes me... uneasy." Melvin chuckled. "Wow. You''ve fallen hard, Ethan."

    "Totally," Ethan admitted, running his good hand through his hair.

    His frustration ebbed, reced by a quiet determination. "While we are on the subject, I need your help with something."

    Melvin tilted his head, intrigued. "Oh? What''s that?"

    "I want to propose to her."

    Melvin let out a low whistle. "You''re kidding."

    "I''m dead serious," Ethan replied, meeting his brother''s wide-eyed stare. "You know I''m not. Have you forgotten my n to get married before I return to the Sea?"

    Melvin chuckled and shook his head in disbelief. "I haven''t forgotten. But things are different now, right? It''s no longer just about your n. Don''t you think it''s a little soon?" Ethan''s expression didn''t waver.

    "It''s not soon enough. If I could do

    it right now, I would. And trust me, we are on the same page. She

    knows how I feel about getting married soon. It''s just that I want to propose to her. The time might be short, but I want to do it the right way."

    Melvin raised his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, Romeo. Slow down a little. We can figure something out. Just don''t go proposing in a hospital gown."

    "Another reason you should tell the doctor that I''m ready to go home. I will pay for home service if I have to"" Ethan said, but before Melvin could respond, the door creaked open, and both men turned their heads. Rayna stepped in, carrying a small box tied with a ribbon. Her face lit up when she saw that Ethan was up, and she made her way to the bedside with a warm smile.

    "Guess who brought treats" she announced, setting the box on the small table beside Ethan''s bed.

    Melvin''s eyes lit up. "Please tell me those are your famous cookies."

    Raynaughed softly. "Better. There''s a mix of cookies and some chocte truffles."

    Ethan reached for her hand with his uninjured one, his earlier irritation melting away. "You didn''t have to go through the trouble."

    "It''s not trouble," she replied, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. "I figured you could use a little sugar," she said with a wink

    "You have all the sugar I need. I just need to get out of here to have it," Ethan whispered for her ears alone, and she giggled.

    Ignoring them, Melvin opened the box, and he groaned in appreciation as the sweet aroma wafted out. "Rayna, you''re a lifesaver. And just so you know, if Ethan messes up, I''d totally disown him for your sake," Melvin said, and Rayna giggled. "No one will be messing up or disowning anyone," she said and turned back to Ethan, her eyes softening as she noticed his gaze fixed on her. "How are you feeling?"

    "Much better now that you''re here"" Ethan said, his voice low. He tugged her hand gently, urging her to sit on the edge of the bed.

    "You''re such a smooth talker," Rayna teased, though her cheeks flushed pink.

    Melvin cleared his throat loudly, breaking the moment. "Can you wait for me to leave before you start your hospital romance? I will give you two some privacy now," he said, taking the box with him. "Where are you going with that?" Ethan asked before Melvin could take a step towards the door.

    "Home to my beautiful wife and darling daughter. Why?" Melvin asked, and Ethan scowled.

    "You can''t take that. She brought it for me""" Ethan said, and Melvin raised a brow.

    "Didn''t you say she shouldn''t have gone through the trouble, and she had all the sugar you need?" Melvin asked sweetly.

    Raynaughed, "I can''t believe you heard that," she said, blushing.

    "I did. My hearing is perfect. So, I''m going to take these with me, and in exchange, I will go talk to the doctor about having you discharged so you can get out of here and get all the sugar you need," Melvin said, and Rayna giggled, feeling mildly embarrassed.

    "Make sure you do that. But I need a taste of that" Ethan insisted.

    Melvin handed him the box, and once Ethan grabbed a cookie, Melvin strolled out of the room with the box, leaving them alone.

    Alone now, Ethan tugged Rayna closer, his hand resting on hers.

    "I''m d that you''re back. I missed you sorely. I wasn''t kidding earlier. I really do feel better when you''re around."

    Rayna smiled, her fingers tracing

    circles on the back of his hand. "b

    missed you too. But I had orders to fill, and I had to make sure

    ve

    everything was running smoothly at the bakery."

    "I get that,

    than murmured, his

    ket

    eyes searching hers. "But I''d rather you stay with me. Even if it''s just to

    na about taking my meds or

    eating."

    Herugh was soft and musical. "Don''t tempt me. I''ll never leave."

    "That''s the idea,, Ethan said, his voice serious. He leaned forward, brushing his lips against her forehead.

    Rayna''s cheeks warmed, but she didn''t pull away. Instead, she cupped his face gently, her thumb grazing his cheek as she kissed him. "Have you made up your mind about where to stay? Mine or yours?" Ethan asked, resting his forehead against hers.

    "Mine would be easier for me ''cause I have all my baking items there."

    "I could buy you every single item you need," he said, and she smiled.

    "Is that your way of saying you want me to move to yours?" She asked, and he grinned.

    "You caught me"" he said, and she giggled.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

    "You''re something else, Ethan."

    "I know you love me" he replied with a crooked grin.

    Rayna rolled her eyes but leaned in again to kiss him lightly. It was brief, but the warmth lingered as she pulled back, her eyes shining.

    "I do," she admitted softly.

    "As much as you love kissing me?" He asked with a teasing smile.

    "Almost as much"" she said, and they bothughed.

    They sat infortable silence for a moment, and Ethan''s heart swelled with love for her.

    "I can''t wait to go home with you," he said, his voice filled with quiet determination.

    Rayna raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking into a smile. "Why? Do you have something you n to do?" She asked with a suspicious smile.

    "Lots of somethings," he said with a suggestive wink, and she giggled

    "Let''s not rush. You need to heal first," she said softly.

    Ethan grinned. "I''m already halfway there. Thanks to you. And I don''t even need to use this hand."

    Rayna shook her head,ughing softly. "You''re impossible."

    "And you''re possible," Ethan countered jokingly, and he pulled her closer as sheughed.

    "I''m so d I didn''t blow it with you, Ray. It would have been the biggest regret of my life," he said, and she rolled her eyes.

    "Or maybe not. You wouldn''t know. How can you regret not having something you never had?" she countered.

    "You''re my golden sun. My soul mate. Of course, I''d have known. I love you, Rayna," he said softly, and she grinned.

    "I love you, too."

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 Chapter 208

    Liam leaned against the desk in his office, his phone pressed to his ear. It was the twentieth time he had tried calling Maya, and once again, her phone went straight to voicemail. Frustration bubbled under his calm exterior as he hung up and stared at the device in his hand.

    What was going on? She hadn''t answered any of his calls, and he couldn''t shake the feeling that she was avoiding him. Why else would her phone be turned off sincest night? He ran a hand through his hair, his thoughts circling back to the kiss.

    Had it been too much for her? But he wasn''t even the one who initiated it, Liam reminded himself. She had done it all herself, and he had even been too shocked to respond. So, why was she making him feel like he had done something wrong? Was she regretting it? With a sigh, Liam decided to change tactics. If Maya wouldn''t answer his calls, he knew Evelyn would. He scrolled through his contacts, found her number, and hit the call button.

    Away from there, Derek was chatting with Evelyn as they drove home from the hospital.

    They had visited the hospital to check on her parents and Ethan.

    Thankfully, ire was to be discharged the following day, and Ethan on Monday.

    They had not told Evelyn''s parents about Derek''s rtionship with Maya yet. They had decided to wait until they came home before breaking the news to them.

    While Derek and Evelyn chatted about spending another weekend without Samantha and how his parents had insisted on keeping her over, Maya sat in the passenger seat, gazing out the window, lost in thought.

    Her silence hadn''t gone unnoticed, but Evelyn and Derek chose not to press her, giving her the space she seemed to need.

    When Evelyn''s phone rang, she nced at the screen, her eyebrows lifting in surprise. "It''s Liam," she said aloud.

    Maya''s heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name, and she turned toward Evelyn. Her expression was carefully neutral, though her fingers curled into herp.

    Maya turned back to the window as Evelyn received the call, her pulse racing. His name alone was enough to send her into a whirlwind of emotions. She held her breath, hoping that he wouldn''t say anything about her to Evelyn. Evelyn didn''t notice the shift in Maya''s demeanor as she answered the call with a warm smile. "Liam! It''s so good to hear from you finally."

    "I''m sorry I haven''t called you this whole time"" Liam said on the other end of the line, his tone apologetic. "I needed some time to sort things out."

    Evelyn''s smile softened. "I understand," she replied, her voice gentle. "And I''m so d to hear from you now. How are you?"

    "I''m good," Liam said, though his voice carried a note of hesitancy.

    "Actually, I''m working in Ludus now."

    "Ludus?" Evelyn repeated, her surprise evident. "You mean you didn''t go back to Hu after we saw youst?"

    "No," Liam admitted. "I didn''t. I didn''t juste for a conference as I told you. I was going to tell you I relocated, but after what happened, I... didn''t want to make things awkward by saying anything." Evelyn frowned slightly as she realized what had happened. Her gaze flickered to Derek. "I''m sorry, Liam. I didn''t..." she began, but Liam cut her off.

    "There''s nothing to be sorry about," he said firmly. "I made my own choices. Can we not dwell on it?"

    Evelyn nodded, even though he couldn''t see her. "Well, how''s it going here? Are you settling in?"

    "It''s... fine," Liam said, though his tone was less than convincing.

    "But it''s lonely, and I was hoping to reconnect with some familiar faces. How are you? And how are Sam and Maya?"

    "We''re all doing well," Evelyn said warmly. "Samantha''s fine. She is with her grandparents. And Maya-"

    She paused, ncing at Maya, who was staring straight ahead, her face unreadable even though her heart was racing now at the mention of her name. "Actually, Maya''s right here," Evelyn added, smiling. "Would you like to say hello?"

    Maya''s head snapped toward her, her eyes wide. She shook her

    head quickly, silently pleading with Evelyn not to hand her the phone, but Evelyn didn''t understand.

    "I''d love that," Liam said, and Evelyn turned to Maya.

    Confusion flickered across Evelyn''s face as she noticed the flush spreading across Maya''s cheeks. Still, she offered the phone to her. "Here, Maya, Liam wants to say hello," Evelyn said, and Maya hesitated. Maya''s heart pounded in her chest as she reluctantly took the phone, her hand trembling slightly. She held it to her ear, her voice barely above a whisper. "Hello?"

    "Maya"" Liam said, relief washing over him. "I''ve been trying to reach you. Are you okay? Why''s your phone off?"

    "I''m fine," she said quickly, her voice tight. "Thank you for checking on me. I hope you''re okay, too?"

    Before Liam could respond, she handed the phone back to Evelyn, her movements stiff and hurried. Evelyn watched her, puzzled, as Maya turned away and focused on the passing scenery outside the window. "Why are you not..."

    "So, where are you working in Ludus?" Evelyn asked at the same time, and Liam realized, to his disappointment, that Maya had returned the phone.

    Liam''s voice came back on the line. "I''m at Royalty International.

    Uhm... I was wondering if I could drop by for dinner, maybe tonight or tomorrow. Whichever is convenient for you. You know, make up

    for the dinner I missed. I haven''t stopped regretting walking away from that sumptuous meal," he said, his tone light but hopeful.

    "Plus, I could use somepany. Maybe get to know Sam''s Dad, too."

    Evelyn smiled, her earlier confusion giving way to warmth. "Of course, Liam. You''re always wee. Tonight is okay."

    "Alright. Thank you," Liam said before hanging up.

    When she ended the call, she turned to Derek, her eyes alight with happiness. "You won''t believe that Liam is working in Ludus now," she told him. "And he''sing over for dinner tonight."

    Derek nodded. "That''s cool" he said simply, d that Liam hade around since he knew Evelyn had been worried about losing her friend.

    While they both talked about Liam, Maya''s heart raced in the back seat. Dinner. Tonight. With Liam.

    What was she going to do?

    Later that evening, the warm, savory aroma of roast chicken filled the dining room, mingling with the scent of freshly baked bread and buttery mashed potatoes. Evelyn nced at the clock as the chef carried a steaming casserole dish to the table, cing it in the center with care. "I just realized that I forgot to text Liam our new address. What if he goes to the former house thinking we are there? That would be a disaster. I should call him," Evelyn said with a slight frown as she looked around for her phone.

    "I think you left it upstairs""" Derek said, and she rose to get her phone out of the bedroom.

    "Don''t worry, I will go get it," Derek said, not wanting her to stress herself.

    As Derek headed for the stairs, the doorbell rang, and he raised a brow. "Are we expecting someone else? I''ll see who is at the door," Derek said, heading for the door instead.This is from N?velDrama.Org.

    Maya, who was seated at the table, froze for a split second, knowing that it was Liam. He had arrived at the new house without getting the address from Evelyn.

    How was he going to exin that? She mused, her heart pounding.

    She nced at Evelyn, who was adjusting the napkins, and thankfully, she didn''t seem to notice her momentary panic.

    Why had she agreed to this? She could have stayed in her room, pleaded a stomachache, or simply avoided this entire situation. But now, there was no escape.

    The man she had kissed- impulsively kissed- less than twenty-four hours ago was about to walk through that door.

    At the door, Derek stared at Liam, surprised to see him there when Evelyn had just mentioned that she hadn''t sent him the address, "How did you get here?" He asked, unable to stop himself.

    Liam''s brows drew together, "Evelyn invited me over for dinner, he said, wondering if Derek had a problem with him being there.

    "I know that. But she didn''t send you this address. Thest time you visited, she was at the old house," Derek pointed out, his eyes narrowed suspiciously.

    Liam realized his error toote. He had been in haste toe over for dinner so he could see Maya and had forgotten to take care of such an important detail.

    His heart raced as he tried toe

    up with a reasonable exnation, but he knew nothing but the truth would clear up this

    misunderstanding unless he wanted to say he had been stalking Evelyn, as he knew Derek might be thinking.

    "Babe, who is at the door?" Evelyn called from inside as she headed upstairs to get her phone since Derek was taking too long.

    "It''s not what you''re thinking," Liam assured Derek.

    "You don''t even know what I''m thinking. Don''t assume you do," Derek said, fixing him with a look.

    "Come in. I hope you have a good exnation for Evelyn," Derek said as he stepped aside for Liam to enter.

    As they approached the dining, Maya''s breath hitched when her gaze fell on Liam, who looked effortlessly handsome in a casual button-up shirt and dark jeans. When her eyes locked with Liam''s, her cheeks flushed instantly, and she instinctively looked away from him and down at the napkins in front of her.

    Derek noticed her reaction and looked from her to Liam and then

    back again, wondering what that was about.

    "Hello, Maya" Liam said, his voice soft yet distinct. The sound of her name on his lips made her stomach flip.

    She forced herself to meet his gaze, her own smile nervous and brief. "Hi, Liam," she managed, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "Liam?" Evelyn called from the stairway, surprised to see him,

    "How did you know this ce?"

    Seeing that Liam was in a pickle and couldn''te up with an exnation because he didn''t want to put her in a difficult position, Maya decided to step in.

    She cleared her throat, "Actually, he is the friend mentioned the other day. He was the gynecologist that attended to me when I visited the hospital. And he was also the friend who helped me contact the orphanage," Maya said, shing Evelyn an apologetic look,

    ¦«¦¯¦²

    "So, he was the one you went out to talk tost night?" Evelyn asked, and Maya nodded.

    "I''m sorry I couldn''t tell you," she said quietly.

    "Don''t be mad that she kept it a secret from you. I asked her not to say a word to you until I was ready to talk to you," Liam said, and Evelyn exchanged a look with an equally surprised Derek

    "I told you it wasn''t what you were thinking," Liam said, and Derek raised a brow.

    "And I told you, you didn''t know what I was thinking," Derek retorted.

    "What were you thinking, then?" Liam asked, and Derek shrugged.

    "Not your business" Derek said with a smirk and Liam chuckled.

    "I didn''t realize that you both were so close," Evelyn said, looking from Derek to Liam.

    "We are not..."

    "We are..." Liam and Maya said at the same time, and Evelyn''s lips twitched with amusement as she exchanged a look with Derek, wondering what was going on with Maya.

    Evelyn pped her hands together. "Well, let''s not keep the food waiting. Everyone, take your seats!"

    As they settled around the table, Maya found herself seated with Liam directly across from her. She tried not to meet his eyes, focusing instead on passing tes and filling sses.

    The conversation flowed easily at

    first. Liam talked about how

    surprised he had been when Maya told him that she had found her brother and how upset he had been

    that Derek had beaten him

    toit

    .n

    before she told him that Derek was

    her brother.

    As they talked, Derek chimed in with his dry humor. Liamughed, his deep chuckle filling the room and sending an involuntary warmth through Maya''s chest.

    "So," Derek said, slicing into his chicken, "how has work been

    treating you? Do you like Ludus?"

    Liam paused, his fork halfway to his mouth, and nced at Maya before answering. "Work is good. And so far, Ludus has been full of interesting discoveries."

    Maya''s pulse quickened at his words. Was that directed at her? Or was she just imagining things?

    Evelyn leaned forward, her curiosity evident. "Do you know many people here yet? Made any friends?"

    Liam shook his head. "Just Maya. That''s part of why I was so excited toe tonight. It''s nice to have familiar faces around."

    Maya''s heart skipped at his words. She remembered now that they had nned to hang out. He was lonely. And here she was, avoiding his calls and acting distant. Guilt gnawed at her. "So, Liam," Derek said, changing the subject, "are you into sports?"

    Liamughed. "Sure. If you''re up for it, I wouldn''t mind a good game night," Liam said, realizing he didn''t feel as ufortable around Derek as he had assumed he would be.

    He didn''t feel the jealous or resentful either seeing Derek and Evelyn together. Most of his focus was on thedy who was seated across from him and doing all she could to avoid his gaze. "Challenge epted" Derek said, grinning. "You''ll regret it, though."

    As the conversation turned yful, Maya allowed herself to rx a

    little. Sheughed along with the others, the tension in her shoulders easing.

    But every so often, she felt Liam''s gaze on her, steady and unwavering. And every time, it sent a shiver down her spine.

    Derek and Evelyn pretended not to notice Maya''s behavior or the tension between Liam and Maya.

    By the time dinner ended, both men were chatting like they had been friends for a long time, and as Liam rose to leave, he turned to Maya before Derek and Evelyn could offer to see him off. "Maya? Do you mind seeing me off to my car?" He asked, his expression gentle and hopeful.

    Her heart leaped at his request, and she looked up at him, "Sure," she said quickly, though her voice was small.

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 Chapter 209

    Maya''s heart raced as she followed Liam to the door. She tried toe up with the right excuse to exin her action and an appropriate apology.

    When they got to the door, he held it open for her to step outside, and then he shut it behind him.

    Neither of them said a word until they got to his car, which was parked some distance away from the house. Then Maya turned to Liam, but before she could say anything, Liam spoke. "Well, that''s out of the way now. I''m d I''ve told her the truth," he said, and Maya forced a smile.

    "Yeah," she said, her voice slightly cracked.

    She cleared her throat, "Aboutst night..."

    "Why are you avoiding me?" They spoke at the same time.

    Maya looked down, "I feel embarrassed," she admitted

    "Why?" Liam asked quietly.

    Maya looked up at him, "Are you seriously asking me that?"

    "Yes, I am," Liam said with a nod.

    Maya inhaled deeply, "Fine. I feel embarrassed because I kissed you. I did something I wasn''t supposed to do. I had no right to do

    that. And I feel ashamed of myself. I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have done that. I have no idea what I was thinking or what possessed me.

    You''ve been really kind to me, and maybe it''s because I''m not used to such kindness without strings attached, I''m not sure. What I did was wrong. I''m sorry," she said, her words pouring out really fast as her heart hammered in her chest.

    Liam stared at her as she spoke, unsure what to do with her apology. His mind had been messed up since she kissed him, and he wasn''t sure an apology was enough to fix it.

    "How about we both get on the same page?" He suggested.

    "What do you mean?" She asked with a confused frown.

    Without responding to her question, Liam stepped forward, and his arm went around her waist, covering the space between them.

    Maya''s heart skipped a beat, and her eyes widened in surprise as he lowered his head to hers. Mayas breath hitched as Liam''s lips imed hers with a deliberate intensity.

    The kiss wasn''t a mere brushing of lips as hers had been. He nibbled softly on her lower lip until her lips parted of their own ord, and then he devoured her lips, kissing her so passionately that the world around her blurred, leaving nothing but the warmth of his touch and the electric pull between them.

    His arm tightened around her waist, anchoring her as the kiss deepened, sending shivers coursing down her spine. She felt her hands rise, hesitating before settling against his chest, where his heart pounded just as wildly as hers.

    For a moment, Maya forgot how to think and how to breathe. All she knew was the way his lips moved against hers, tender yet consuming as if he''d been waiting to do this for a long time. His other hand moved gently to her cheek, cradling her face as though she were something precious.

    Her knees threatened to buckle, but his hold on her was firm. The kiss wasn''t just a response but an answer, a deration she hadn''t been expecting.

    When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against hers. They stood there, breaths mingling in the cool night air. Maya''s eyes fluttered open, meeting his gaze, which was heavy with emotion and something she couldn''t quite name.

    "Does that clear things up?" Liam''s voice was low, slightly raspy.

    His lips curled into the faintest smile, but his eyes stayed locked on hers, searching.

    Maya opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Her hands trembled where they still rested against his chest, and she quickly pulled them back, wrapping her arms around herself instead as she stepped backward. "I... I don''t understand," she whispered, her voice barely audible. Liamughed softly, the sound rumbling deep in his chest. "What''s not to understand, Maya? You were embarrassed and avoided me because you kissed me. Now I''ve kissed you and bnced it up.

    There''s nothing for you to feel ashamed about anymore."

    Her cheeks med. "But I told you it was a mistake."

    "And now I''m telling you it wasn''t. This wasn''t. I kissed you because I wanted to. Because I''ve wanted to since... since you

    kissed me mistakenly," Liam said, his tone firm but gentle. "Do you think I''ve been able to stop thinking about you sincest night?

    Because I haven''t."

    Maya blinked up at him, her heart racing even faster now. "You... you haven''t?"

    "No," he admitted, his thumb brushing against her cheek.

    She shook her head, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes.

    "Liam, this is so confusing."

    "What is?" Liam asked, wanting to know exactly what she was thinking.

    "You. Your feelings for Evelyn""" she exined without meeting his gaze.

    "Oh. I understand," he said with a nod.

    "You do?" She asked, and he nodded.

    "I can''t exin why I''m feeling this way about you right now or why I no longer feel as strongly for Evelyn as I did. I don''t think we have to figure it all out tonight," he said softly, his hand dropping to his side but still close enough to touch her. "I just needed you to know where I stand. And to know that you don''t have to avoid me. We can figure it out together slowly."

    Maya bit her lip, her mind spinning. She wanted to run, to hide, to protect herself from the storm of emotions brewing inside her. But at the same time, she wanted to stay, to trust the safety she felt in his presence.

    "What now?" she asked hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Liam''s lips curved into a gentle smile. "Now, you go back inside and turn on your phone so I can call you when I get home. And then you will tell me all you''ve been up to today while ghosting me.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

    And then, after that... we take things one step at a time. Together.

    Figure out what this is between us and what to do about it. Is that good enough for you?"

    Maya felt her heart squeeze at his words, which wrapped around her like a warm nket. She nodded slowly, still unsure but willing to try.

    Liam stepped back, giving her space, "Good. You can go in now," he said, and Maya stared at him for a moment.

    "I''m sorry for avoiding you," she said, and he smiled.

    "It''s okay. I understand," he said, and she nodded before turning around and walking back to the house.

    Inside the house, Evelyn had a smile on her face as she and Derek walked into their bedroom. "Did you notice all that tension between them?" she asked Derek, and he chuckled.

    "It was hard not to notice. But the tension seemed to being more from Maya''s end. Did she have a crush on Liam?" Derek asked curiously as they got on the bed.

    Evelyn shook her head. "I have absolutely no idea. This is the first time I''m noticing anything out of the ordinary in their interaction," she said and then giggled.

    "Liam and Maya. That is one pair I didn''t seeing, but it''s not exactly unwee," she said, and Derek scowled.

    "Well, if anything of the sort is going to happen between them, he is going to have to prove himself to me. He can''t just jump from my wife to my sister," he said, and Evelynughed.

    "I''m not your wife yet, Derek. Why do I have to keep reminding you of that?" She asked with amusement.

    "I wonder why you keep wasting your time doing that when it''s not needed. No one asked you to remind me," he said with a grin, and she giggled

    "And there is no reason why he can''t have feelings for Maya," Evelyn said, and Derek raised a brow.

    "If he liked you enough to move down to Ludus because of you, how can he move on so easily?" Derek asked, and Evelyn shook her head.

    "I don''t think he came here because of me. It doesn''t make sense that he would make such a huge career move for my sake when we weren''t even dating," Evelyn said, and Derek shook his head

    "He did. Trust me. And even if he didn''t, for someone who imed to be interested in you, I don''t think he would move on in a matter of weeks. I couldn''t even move on for six years," Derek said, and Evelyn rolled her eyes.

    "Liam and you arepletely

    different. I had sex with you, but I

    was never intimate with Liam, so there is no sexual tie or anything to make it hard for him to move on. Also Liam and I weren''t meant to be, unlike you and I," she said, and this time, Derek grinned.

    "Alright. With these few points of yours, you have been able to convince me," he said, and she giggled.

    "I''m d that Liam is here, though.

    Maybe we can register at the clinic where he works, and he can deliver our baby. It would be nice having the same doctor deliver both our

    ep

    babies," Evelyn said, and the smile slid off Derek''s face.

    "Liam was the one who delivered Sam?" He asked, and Evelyn paused when she realized she had just let it slip.

    "Yes. I thought I mentioned it to you before?" She asked with an innocent smile.

    "No, you didn''t. And I''m pretty sure you know you didn''t. You said he was a friend you met when you were pregnant, and he has been helpful all these years and is dear to you and Sam..." "You remember all I said," Evelyn said with a wince.

    "Perfectly. So, I''m going to assume you forgot to mention the most important part," Derek said, his voice ringing with usation, and Evelyn giggled.

    "Alright. I''m sorry. I deliberately didn''t mention it,'' she admitted.

    "Why?" Derek asked, confused.

    "It''s just that when I mentioned to Ray that Liam was my OB/GYN, she was weird about it, and I just thought it was best not to mention it to you, too," Evelyn exined.

    "She was weird, huh?" Derek asked, his tone ripe with implication.

    "C''mon, babe. It''s not a big deal. Liam is a professional.."

    "The only man that is going to ever deliver our baby is me," Derek cut in, and Evelynughed.

    "Jealous much? You''re not even a doctor," she pointed out.

    "Exactly my point. So, unless you

    want to wait until I get a medical degree, which might take years because I''m not sure I will pass my exams easily, I suggest you make sure the next OB/GYN or whatever you call it is ady," he said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "I really don''t get why you''re making this a big deal," she said,ughing.

    "It is a big deal! I can now see why he fell for you," Derek said, looking her over suggestively, and Evelynughed.

    "He didn''t fall for me because of anything he saw. Don''t be ridiculous," she scolded.

    "I don''t care. I''m going to make him y some physical sports with me. Maybe basketball, and I will beat him to a pulp," Derek threatened, and Evelynughed.

    "You will do no such thing. Maybe you want Maya to disown you," she said, and they bothughed.

    "Well, tomorrow is our appointment with the obstetrician- ady, so you have nothing to worry about. We will bring my parents home after we are done," Evelyn reminded him, and Derek nodded. "Tomorrow is another busy day," he said with a sigh.

    "Yeah. I hope we hear back from the investigator tomorrow as he promised," Evelyn said with a yawn, referring to the investigator who was looking into the murder of Derek''s parents.

    "Me too," Derek murmured as he pulled Evelyn closer to himself and turned off the lights in the room so they could go to bed.

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 Chapter 210

    Evelyn and Derek had breakfast alone the following day because Maya imed she wanted to sleep in and eat muchter. They all knew she was avoiding them because she didn''t want to talk about whatever was happening between her and Liam. After breakfast, Evelyn decided to have a word with Maya, so she took a tray of breakfast up to Maya''s room and knocked softly on the door.

    Evelyn heard a faint rustle from within, and after a moment, the door creaked open. Maya stood there, dressed in a casual hoodie and sweatpants, her dark hair tied into a messy bun. Her guarded expression softened slightly when she saw Evelyn standing there with a tray of breakfast.

    "Good morning," Evelyn greeted with a warm smile. "Breakfast delivery."

    "Thank you," Maya said as she took the tray from her."

    "Can Ie in for a quick chat?" Evelyn asked, and Maya''s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of suspicion crossing her face.

    "Is this about...st night?" she asked, her voice cautious.

    Evelyn chuckled softly. "Not entirely. Just wanted to check on you."

    Maya opened the door wider and stepped aside, gesturing for Evelyn toe in. Evelyn entered the small, cozy space, her eyes briefly scanning the neatly made bed and a stack of books on the nightstand.

    "So," Evelyn began, her tone light. "How are you doing this morning?" She asked as Maya set the tray down on top of the stack of books by the nightstand.

    Evelyn chose the seat by the window, waiting for Maya to settle on the edge of the bed.

    Maya shrugged, pulling her legs up to sit cross-legged on the bed.

    "I''m alright. What about you?"

    "I''m okay, too," Evelyn replied, leaning back against the chair.

    "Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something."

    Maya tensed slightly. "Let me guess... Liam? I''m sorry I didn''t tell you I..."

    Evelyn smiled reassuringly as she cut in. "Yes, about Liam, but not in the way you''re thinking."

    Maya rxed slightly but stayed cautious. "Okay..."

    Evelyn''s smile widened. "Actually, I just wanted to say I''m not upset or anything about you keeping his secret. If anything, I''m d you two got to know each other better. He''s a really decent guy, and I think it''s wonderful that the two of you have struck up a friendship." Maya''s cheeks flushed, and she blinked, her brows knitting together in surprise. "Really?"

    "Of course," Evelyn said, her voice gentle. "You don''t need to feel

    awkward or guilty about anything. I''m totally cool with... whatever is going on between you two."

    Maya''s head snapped up, her eyes wide. "Whatever''s going on?" she echoed, a nervousugh escaping her lips. "I''m not sure there''s anything going on," she muttered. "I mean... he likes you, Evelyn. I don''t see how someone like him could go from liking someone like you to... me."

    Evelyn''s smile faltered, reced by a look of disbelief. She raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "Maya, please don''t tell me you said that to him."

    Maya shook her head quickly. "Not exactly. But it''s the truth," she admitted.

    "No, it''s not," Evelyn countered. She straightened, her tone growing more serious.

    "It is," Maya insisted firmly.

    "What is the truth? That he liked me or that he can''t go from liking

    ''someone like me'' to you?" Evelyn asked, and Maya gave a half-shrug but said nothing.

    "What do you mean someone like me?" Evelyn asked, and Maya sighed.

    "Seriously, Evelyn, can you not see all the difference between us?

    Do I need to spell it out? Until a couple of days ago, I was your employee. You''re an aplisheddy. I have nothing. I am nobody..."

    "For Christ''s sake, Maya, why on earth would you think I''m better than you in any way?" Evelyn cut in with a frown.

    Maya hesitated, her voice barely above a whisper. "I''m not thinking it. It''s the reality. Look at me. I don''t have a degree. I don''t have a good job. I have health problems. My lifes a mess, Evelyn. I''ve got nothing going for me. Well, until recently, like you know." Evelyn sighed, her expression softening. "Maya, all of those things can change in the next two to five years, and they will if you work towards them as you have nned. But why do you think those are the criteria for being worth loving?"

    Maya nced up at her, confusion clouding her face as she bit her lip, her eyes glistening. "But he''s a doctor, Evelyn. He''s aplished so much, and I''m just... me. I''d never catch up."

    "And that''s all you ever need to be, Maya. You. Unapologetically you. Listen," Evelyn continued, her tone earnest. "You''re a kind, genuine, and thoughtful person. That''s what matters. That''s the only thing anyone worth having in your life would care about. You don''t have to catch up."

    "But I will only be an embarrassment to him in his social circle..."

    "None of that matters" Evelyn said firmly. "If Liam likes you- and I''m pretty sure he does- then he sees all the amazing things about you that you can''t seem to see in yourself. If you like him, and he likes you, that''s what counts." Evelyn reached out, cing aforting hand on Maya''s knee.

    "And if you want, you can ask to take things slowly, keep it between the two of you while you pursue your dreams. And maybe when you feel more confident you can make it open. If you like

    him, Maya, give yourself the chance to see where this could go.

    Don''t walk away from this because

    ?

    of some idea that you''re not enough. You are enough, Maya. You, more than anyone else, should believe that about yourself. What do you expect others to do if you look down on yourself? You''re more than enough for Liam or even the president."

    Maya''s shoulders sagged as a small smile crept onto her lips.

    "You really think so?"

    Evelyn squeezed her hand. "I know so. And honestly? If you care about him, don''t let your insecurities get in the way. You deserve happiness as much as anyone else." Maya nodded slowly, her voice soft. "Thank you, Evelyn. I... I''ll think about what you said."

    Evelyn smiled, standing up. "Good. I have to go now. We have an appointment with the Obstetrician. And we will be bringing my parents here from the hospital."

    "I''ll make sure their room is ready before they get here," Maya said as she saw Evelyn to the door.

    Forty-five minutester, Evelyn and Derek entered the obstetrician''s office hand in hand.

    They checked in at the front desk, exchanged smiles with the receptionist, and sat in the waiting area.

    Derek tapped his knee rhythmically, his eyes flitting around the room. He paused to look at Evelyn, his gaze softening as itnded on her belly.

    "Are you nervous?" Evelyn teased, reaching over to still his hand.

    "Not nervous," he said, his lips twitching into a smile. "Just... I don''t know. Excited. This feels unreal."

    Before Evelyn could respond, the nurse called them in. Derek stood immediately and helped Evelyn up, his hand never leaving hers as they followed the nurse down the hallway.

    The examination room was small but weing, with soft pastel walls and a monitor mounted on the wall. Evelyn settled onto the examination table, and Derek pulled a chair close.

    The obstetrician, a cheerful woman in her forties, entered with a warm smile. "Good morning, Evelyn. And you must be Derek?"

    "That''s me!" Derek said, his voice warm but tinged with awe. His gaze darted between the doctor and the equipment.

    "Are we ready to meet baby today?" the doctor asked, slipping on gloves and preparing the ultrasound machine.

    Evelyn nodded eagerly. Derek looked like he wanted to say something but couldn''t find the words. He settled for squeezing Evelyn''s hand.

    The doctor dimmed the lights, and

    the soft hum of the machine filled the room. Evelyn shifted her shirt to expose her belly, and Derek watched intently as the doctor applied the coolgel and began moving the

    probe across her skin.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only

    The screen flickered to life. At first, there was just a blur of gray and ck, but then the outline of a tiny form appeared. The room grew quiet except for the rhythmic whooshing sound that

    suddenly filled the air.

    "There it is," the doctor said, her tone soft. "That''s your baby''s heartbeat."

    Derek''s breath hitched audibly. He leaned forward, his eyes fixed on the screen. His hand tightened around Evelyn''s, and she nced at him to see his expression. His mouth was slightly open, his eyes wide with wonder. "That... that tiny bean-like shape? That''s our baby?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

    "Yes" the doctor confirmed, smiling. "That''s your baby."

    Evelyn felt a lump form in her throat as she watched Derek. His eyes glistened, and he didn''t even seem to notice the tear that slipped down his cheek. She reached over with her free hand, brushing it away gently. "It''s real," he said, his voice cracking. "I mean, I knew it was real, but... hearing it. Seeing it..."

    Evelyn''s heart swelled. She ced her other hand over his, their fingerscing together. "It''s amazing, isn''t it?" she murmured.

    "It''s incredible," Derek said, his eyes

    never leaving the screen. Heughed softly, a mix of joy and disbelief.

    "Look at that. That''s our baby, Eveet

    Our baby. Did Samantha look this way, too? Or did she have a different shape? Make like a banana?" He

    asked with a grin, and bote

    Evelyn and the doctorughed.

    The doctor exined what each stage of the fetus would look like

    until the baby was fully formed and ready to be born, and Derek soaked it all in, nodding and asking questions, his awe evident with every word.

    When the doctor printed the ultrasound images and handed them over, Derek held them like they were the most precious thing in the world. He studied them, tracing the tiny silhouette with his finger. Evelyn watched him, her chest tight with emotion. This moment felt perfect-sharing this experience with Derek and seeing his love for their baby already written all over his face. "Thank you," he whispered suddenly, his eyes locking with hers.

    "Thank you for giving me this."

    Evelyn smiled, her eyes shining. "You''ve given me just as much, Derek. More than I ever thought possible."

    As they left the office, Derek still holding the ultrasound pictures, they stopped in the hallway. He pulled Evelyn into a gentle hug, resting his chin on her head.

    "I''ll never forget this day," he said softly.

    "Me neither, Evelyn replied, holding him tightly. For a moment, it was just the two of them, their love for each other and the life they had created together filling the quiet space.

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 Chapter 211

    By the time Evelyn and Derek brought her parents home from the hospital, it was evening already.

    Derek pushed the door open with his shoulder, bncing ire''s suitcase in one hand and holding the doorframe with the other.

    Evelyn followed close behind, her arm linked with her mother''s.

    Eric shuffled inst with his duffel bag in hand.

    ire let out a soft sigh of relief as she stepped inside, her fingers lightly brushing over the back of the couch. "It''s good to be out of the hospital finally," she murmured, her voice warm but tinged with exhaustion. Maya appeared from the kitchen, her smile wide and weing.

    "Wee!" she greeted, stepping forward to help. Her eyes flickered to the suitcase in Derek''s hand. "Let me take that upstairs for you."

    Derek shook his head with a small smile. "Thanks, but I''ve got it."

    Reluctantly, she stepped back, allowing Derek to carry the bag upstairs on his own. As he left, she disappeared into the kitchen, promising to bring refreshments.

    "Is it just me? Why does Maya seem restless?" ire asked as she eased herself onto the couch, leaning back against the cushions.

    Her face was still pale, but there was a spark of liveliness in her eyes that hadn''t been there days ago.

    Evelyn smiled, "habit. I guess she doesn''t know how to stay still."

    "The house feels so quiet without Samantha," Eric remarked, ncing around as if expecting the little girl toe running into the room. His tone was light, but there was a hint of wistfulness beneath his words. "She will be back tomorrow," Evelyn reassured him, sitting beside her mother and giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "She''s been asking about Mom non-stop."

    "I can''t wait to see her. And I hope you will also bring her over to spend weekends with us when we return to the house," ire asked hopefully.

    "Sure, I will, Evelyn promised, and ire smiled, the kind of soft, maternal smile that made Evelyn''s chest tighten with warmth.

    Maya returned momentster, carrying a tray with sses of fresh watermelon juice and a te of cookies. She set it down carefully on the coffee table before taking a seat across from them. "How are you feeling now?" Maya asked, her voice kind and genuine.

    "Apart from the asional headache, much better." ire picked up a ss of watermelon juice and took a small sip. "Thank you for helping Evelyn take care of things around the house."

    Maya''s cheeks flushed, and she looked down, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "It''s nothing, really. I''m happy to help."

    Eric, who had been quietly observing, reached for his own ss.

    "We''re grateful, Maya."

    "If everyone had a nanny like you, life would be easier for working mothers," ire said with an easy smile.

    Thement hung in the air, seemingly harmless, but Evelyn felt her pulse quicken. She nced at Derek, who had just returned to the room and was taking his seat across from her. He met her gaze, and with a slight nod, she urged him on. Derek leaned forward in his seat. "Actually"" Derek began, his voice serious, "there''s something we need to talk to you about."

    ire and Eric exchanged a curious look, their attention shifting to Derek. ire set her ss down, her brows knitting together in concern. "What is it, Derek?"

    Derek looked toward Maya, and she gave him a small smile. He took a deep breath and said, "We recently discovered that Maya is my sister. My biological sister."

    For a moment, the room was silent. ire''s eyes widened in shock as she turned to look at Maya. Eric blinked, his face a mixture of confusion and disbelief. "Your sister?" ire repeated, leaning forward slightly. "How is that possible?"

    "I never knew you had a sister," Eric said, looking from Derek to Maya and then to Evelyn for confirmation.

    Evelyn and Derek took turns exining everything-how Michael had first told Derek about his sister, how Derek had begun remembering fragments of his childhood, the nightmare that had

    revealed buried memories of the ident, and the findings that had led them to Maya. They exined the ne and everything that pieced it all together.

    ire listened intently, her frown deepening with each detail.

    When they finished, she turned to Maya, her gaze searching.

    "Where were you raised?"

    "Cavenspot," Maya replied softly, her hands folded in herp.

    ''That''s where I grew up."

    ire''s lips parted as if she were about to speak, but then she stopped herself. She shook her head slowly, her expression troubled. "Cavenspot..." she murmured, almost to herself. "That can''t be a coincidence." "What do you mean?" Eric asked, his voice cautious.

    ire shook her head again as if trying to dispel a nagging thought. "It''s just... it all sounds familiar, but it doesn''t make sense. It''s probably nothing."

    "Or maybe it''s something. What do you know?" Derek asked curiously.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.

    "Can I see the picture you talked about?" She asked instead, and Maya nodded as she took off the ne and passed it to her.

    The moment ire saw the pictures in the locket, she froze. Her breath hitched, and her hand trembled as she traced the edges of the locket. Her eyes were wide, the color draining from her face. "How can this be?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. She

    held the locket tighter, staring at the tiny photographs as if they were ghosts from her past. "I know these people."

    The room fell into a stunned silence. Derek leaned forward, his voice urgent. "You knew them? How? Who were they to you?"

    ire''s gaze flickered to Derek and then to Maya. She opened her mouth and closed it again as though the words were too heavy to say. Finally, she took a deep breath, her voice trembling as she began to speak.

    "It was twenty-eight years ago," she said. "Back then, I was married to someone... someone terrible. A man named Victor Harding." Her lips twisted at the name, and her shoulders sagged under an invisible weight. Derek frowned, "Is that Sandra''s father? The one you mentioned thest time who was arrested for murder and has been in jail."

    ire nodded, "Victor was a dangerous man. Ruthless. He didn''t care who he hurt to get what he wanted."

    Evelyn''s hand flew to her mouth, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "I''ve never heard about him."

    "There is a reason I never mentioned him," ire admitted, her voice low. "I ran from that life. From him. But before I did, I... I witnessed something horrible."

    Eric, who had been sitting silently, reached out to gently squeeze her hand. "Take your time, he said softly, knowing that this wasn''t easy for her.

    ire paused, her fingers still clutching the locket. The weight of her words seemed to drag the room into a deeper silence.

    "The people in this picture-your

    parents... they were kind, decent

    people. I didn''t know them well, but I knew enough to see they were good. Your mother, her name was Elena She ran the major arts and

    Joy!.ne

    bookstore in the neighboring town from Cavenspot. Your father was a journalist. His name was Carter Reed. Victor wanted to shut them up. Your father had found... evidence. Something incriminating about Victor and his dealings. He was trying to do the right thing, trying to bring him down."

    "What was the evidence about?" Evelyn asked, and her mother sighed.

    Her voice broke, and she pressed her lips together tightly before answering. "Victor used to work as a construction contractor at Stone Corp..." "Stone Corp?" Derek asked with a deep frown, his heart racing at this revtion.

    ire nodded, "I was hoping I''d never have to bring this up before your parents," she said, looking down.

    "What did his working as a contractor at Stone Corp have to do with our father?" Maya asked, unable to understand how it was all rted.

    "There was an ident at one of the construction sites. One of the buildings under construction copsed, and several workers were injured, and some died. There were rumors that the little Stone boy was at the site and got hurt too, but it was never confirmed," she said, and Derek rose from his seat, unable to sit

    still anymore.

    Evelyn nced at him, not knowing what to say or do since she was shocked by the revtion herself.

    Before ire could continue, Derek''s phone buzzed in his pocket.

    He nced at the screen and saw the investigator''s name shing. "Excuse me," he said quickly, stepping aside to take the call.

    The investigator''s voice was brisk and direct. "I looked into the major ident in the outskirts of the Cavenspot area from the night you described."

    Derek''s grip tightened on the phone. "And?"

    "The description you gave fits the case of a couple identified as Elena and Carter Reed. They were found deceased at the scene.

    The authorities believed there were kids in the car, but they weren''t there when they arrived. They suspected that the perpetrator might have taken the kids at the scene. There were traces of blood on the back seat but no sign of their body. When the perpetrator was finally apprehended, he denied taking or hurting the kids. The case went cold after that."

    Derek felt a cold shiver run down his spine. "Do you have anything else?"

    "I sent you the full report, including witness statements and photographs. I think you''ll want to see them."

    Derek nodded, though the investigator couldn''t see him. "Thank you. I''ll take a look."

    As he hung up, his mind swirled with the details he''d just heard, and he tried topare them with all he knew already.

    The pieces were starting to fit together, but the picture they formed was far more horrifying than he''d imagined. Re-entering the living room, he saw the others still seated, their expressions a mix of curiosity and tension. "Derek?" Evelyn asked softly; concern etched on her face.

    He swallowed hard, ncing at Maya, who looked back at him with quiet apprehension. "That was the investigator. He said the names of the people in the ident were Elena and Carter Reed," he said before looking at ire.

    "You were telling us what happened with the construction site," he reminded her as he sat down.

    She sighed deeply. "Your father,

    being a journalist, decided to look deeper into it since the issue of copsed buildings was bing a norm in the region. He traced them all to Victor and gathered evidence that Victor was using substandard. materials, and he was the one

    supplying most of the material

    himself under a fake name. He produced inferior materials and sold them to thepanies that gave him contracts. Victor found out that your father knew, and he sent men to threaten your father to make him stay silent. But your father refused. He was brave, but he

    underestimated Victor. Slowly, your father began to expose Victor''s wrongdoings, and this made most of thepanies terminate their contracts with Victor. Some went as far as suing him," ire looked away, tears glistening in her eyes.

    Derek''s hands clenched into fists. "What happened?"

    "Victor became furious. He med your father for everything. He decided to punish him," ire said, her voice cracking as she shut her eyes.

    Maya''s voice trembled as she spoke for the first time since ire began her story. "You... you knew all he was doing? And you didn''t say or do anything?"

    ire''s head snapped up, guilt etched deep in her features. "I didn''t know. I had no idea he did all those illegal things until your father exposed him. I wanted to leave, but I couldn''t. I was pregnant and trapped. Victor controlled everything- my life, my money, even my freedom. He almost killed me when I questioned him. I was terrified, so I stayed silent."

    Derek stood abruptly, pacing the room. "You''re telling me our parents were murdered by your ex-husband? And you just-what-let it go because you were terrified?"

    ire flinched, but she didn''t shy away from his anger. "No," she said firmly. "I didn''t let it go. It took some time, but I gathered enough courage to leave Victor. It took me a while to gather the needed evidence against him to prove all he did, and after I submitted the evidence to the authorities, I fled with Sandra, changed my name, and never looked back. I didn''t know you and Maya survived."

    Derek paused when another memory came to him, "I don''t remember much, but I remember being scared. I remember someoneing to our housete at night. And... the fire." His voice cracked on thest word.

    ire nodded, her face pale. "Yes. He sent his thugs to your parent''s house that night. I overheard him on the phone giving the

    orders. They were supposed to...

    eliminate your father and destroy every evidence he had gathered. They set the bookstore on fire, along with you house. Your parents were trying to run away when they were killed. I was horrified but too afraid toe forward even when Victor continued his life like nothing had happened. I stayed silent, and I hated myself for it every day. I''ve always carried the guilt."

    Maya wiped a tear from her cheek, her voice trembling, "Do you know if he is still alive?"

    ire shook her head. "I don''t know. Last I heard, he was still in prison. He could be dead by now."

    The room fell into silence once more. None of them spoke, but the questions in their eyes were unmistakable: What now?

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 Chapter 212

    The silence in the room was broken when the chef came to announce that dinner had been served.

    Although none of them had an appetite, they all moved to the dining room. Derek wanted Evelyn to eat because of her condition, and Eric also wanted ire to eat so that she could take her medication.

    As they all pretended to eat while pushing their food around their tes, Evelyn looked at ire, "Was Sandra aware? I mean, does she know about her biological father?" Evelyn asked curiously. ire nodded. "I told her about it when she was old enough to understand," ire said softly.

    Derek shook his head. "And yet she decided to be everything her father was- maniptive, ruthless, willing to go to any length for money. I guess the darkness in the bloodline couldn''t be erased," Derek said bitterly, and Evelyn ced a calming hand on his arm. Maya, who had been silent for a while, cleared her throat, "So, your... I mean Victor. From what you said, does it mean that he wasn''t arrested until you submitted evidence against him?" She asked, wanting to understand what happened after the ident. ire nodded, "Yes."

    "He got away with the murder? How?" Evelyn asked in disbelief.

    "Victor was meticulous. He knew how to cover his tracks. He framed a rival- David Hunt, a businessman who had been a thorn in his side. He nted evidence to make it look like Hunt used Carter to tarnish his reputation and then had him murdered to silence him. The police bought it, and Hunt was convicted and sentenced to death."

    Evelyn inhaled sharply. "He died?"

    "Yes," ire confirmed. "It took me three years to gather all I could on Victor. By then, it was toote for David Hunt," she said, looking down at her te with shoulders slumped from guilt.

    Derek stared at her in disbelief. "An innocent man was executed for a crime my parents'' murderermitted," Derek muttered.

    Without another word, he rose and walked away, unable to contain the storm of emotions threatening to consume him.

    His footsteps echoed through the hallways as he climbed the stairs to his room, leaving an air of tension behind. Evelyn watched him go, her heart aching at the raw pain etched across his face. Without hesitation, she excused herself from the table and followed him.

    "Maybe we should go home," ire told Eric softly, but Maya shook her head.

    "No. Why would you leave?" Maya asked with a frown as she looked up from the remnants of her untouched meal.

    "Derek is upset..."

    "Yes, but not at you. He''s upset by the situation. You shouldn''t leave because of that. He just needs time to pull himself together," Maya said, and Eric looked at her.

    "What about you? Aren''t you upset?" He asked, and she sighed.

    "I feel sad, but for some reason, I don''t feel as deeply connected to it. Maybe he feels that way because he remembers his time with them. But I don''t. As sad as it is, they''re like strangers to me," she admitted, "and being upset about it won''t change much. Life has taught me to ept whatever it throws at me and move on."

    "You''re quite self-aware and wise" ire observed softly.

    "I don''t think Derek and Evelyn will be returning to the table. Weve all been through a lot today. Let''s give each other the space to process everything. Tomorrow''s a new day."

    ire nodded, her voice quiet but resolute. "And maybe tomorrow, we can put the past behind us and look forward."

    Maya looked at her and gave a small smile. "Yeah," she said.

    Upstairs, Evelyn reached the bedroom door, and she hesitated for a moment before knocking softly.

    "Derek, it''s me. Can Ie in?"

    There was silence on the other side of the door, and just as she was about to knock again, she heard his voice, muffled but calm.

    "Come in."

    Evelyn pushed the door open and found him standing by the window, his back to her, staring into the darkening sky. His hands were clenched into fists at his sides, and his posture was rigid. "You should have stayed back to eat. You didn''t have to follow me," he said without turning around.

    "I couldn''t just sit there and eat, Evelyn said gently, stepping into the room and closing the door behind her. "You''re hurting, Derek, and I-"

    "I''m fine. I just need some time to process everything," he said calmly, not wanting her to see him so upset or angry.

    He hated that he was feeling this way when he knew there was nothing else he could do about it. Victor had been arrested and prosecuted and all he could do was be mad.

    Evelyn frowned, walking closer to him. "You''re not fine. Stop pretending that you are. This isn''t something you can just brush off, Evelyn said as she wrapped her arms around his waist from behind.

    "What do you want me to do?" He asked quietly.

    "Bottling it up won''t help. Tell me how you''re feeling," she said, sliding her hands under his shirt so she could feel his skin.

    Derek sighed as he felt her touch on his skin. He turned around to look at her, letting her see the anger and anguish in his eyes. "I''m mad. I feel angry and frustrated. I wish there were something I could do, but I can''t do anything. I didn''t do anything then. I can''t do anything now. I feel useless. What kind of a son am I? First, I forgot them, and all that happened, I forgot my younger sister, and

    even now, there is nothing I can do for them."

    Evelyn held his gaze, her voice gentle but firm. "You did enough by surviving that terrible incident. Any parent would rather you forget them than be tormented by nightmares or live with that trauma.

    I''m sure you''d have wanted the same for Sam. You did more than enough by turning out right, D. You are doing enough now by standing by Maya. Your parents would be so proud of you. I''m not even your Mom, and I feel so damn proud every time I look at you." "Eve." Derek groaned, burying his face in the crook of her neck.

    "You''re right, but it doesn''t make any of this easier."

    Evelyn guided him to sit on the edge of the bed, and as he sank down, she stood in front of him and embraced him. "I know it''s overwhelming, but your parents got justice, Derek. You don''t have to do anything to make you feel worthy of being their son."

    Derek leaned back into her embrace,

    closing his eyes. She was making it hard for him to stay upset. "If you hadn''t returned to Ludus ande back into my life when you did, might have gone through with the n to marry Sandra just to make my mother happy. I would have been marrying the daughter of the man who murdered my parents and destroyed my family."

    Evelyn tightened her hold on him. "But you didn''t. Don''t dwell on what might have been. Focus on what''s real, on what you''ve achieved. You found your sister. You uncovered the truth about your parent''s death, and now you can find closure." Derek let out a long sigh, nodding. "You''re right. Maybe now I can let it go." He paused, his voice softening. "I''m grateful to ire.

    Despite everything she endured, she helped bring Victor to justice.

    She deserves peace, too. She doesn''t deserve to have a daughter

    like Sandra."

    "You''re right" Evelyn agreed. "I feel sorry for all she had to go through."

    Derek shifted, pulling Evelyn onto the bed with him. Hey back, holding her close, his eyes fixed on the ceiling. The silence stretched between them until Evelyn spoke, her voice breaking the stillness. "What are you thinking?" Derek hesitated before answering. "I''m wondering if I should be proud of my father."

    Evelyn tilted her head to look at him. "What do you mean? Of course, you should be proud. He was brave. He fought against evil."

    "Maybe," Derek said, his voice heavy. "But if he hadn''t taken Victor''s case, none of this would have happened. He could''ve walked away, protected his family."

    Evelyn sat up slightly, her expression

    firm. "And let Victor continue to ruin other families? Do you know how many people must''ve suffered because of him? Your father didn''t just expose Victor for himself, he did it for every wife and child who lost their father and husband to that monster in those copsed buildings."

    Derek''s eyes darkened. "I never want to be a hero at the expense of my family, Eve. My priority is keeping you and our children safe.

    That''s all that matters to me."

    Evelyn smiled gently. "I know that''s what you believe, but I also know you. If faced with the same choice, you''d do exactly what your father did. You wouldn''t stand by and do nothing."

    Derek shook his head, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Not at the expense of my family."

    Evelyn chuckled softly. "That''s what you think."

    Derek reached for her hand, his gaze serious. "Evelyn, your safety and the well-being of our children will alwayse first. I don''t care if the world burns as long as you''re safe. I owe that to you, to myself. I wouldn''t let anything jeopardize that." Evelyn leaned in, kissing him softly. "Let''s not think about it anymore. Let''s focus on something else."

    "Like what?" He asked. He watched as she reached over to the bedside drawer and pulled out the ultrasound pictures with a smile.

    "Like this."

    Derek''s expression softened, and his

    eyes lit up at the sight of the

    pictures. He took them from her hands, tracing the tiny image with his fingers. "How could you ever think wouldn''t do everything to protect you and this little life inside you? I''d sell my soul to the devil for you two and Sam."

    Evelyn wrapped her arms around him, resting her head on his shoulder.

    "You will never have to do that. I love you, Derek."

    He kissed the top of her head, his voice filled with emotion. "If there''s a word deeper than love, that''s what I feel for you. Remember that."

    Evelyn smiled, her tone teasing. "I hope you''re not obsessed."

    Derek smirked. "Worse than obsessed. Soon, I''ll be spying on you in the bathroom."

    Evelynughed, the sound light and carefree. "You''re crazy."

    "Crazy about you," Derek murmured, pulling her closer. "Get used to it."

    "How do you feel now?" She asked, and he sighed.

    "For some reason, I can''t stay mad or upset when I''m around you," he said, and she grinned.

    "Maybe it''s because you''re obsessed," she joked.

    "Totally obsessed. That must be it," he said, and theyughed as theyy on the bed.

    Theirughter filled the room, soft and soothing, cutting through the tension that had weighed heavily on the evening.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.

    Derek pulled Evelyn closer, their breaths mingling as he pressed a kiss to her temple, the warmth emanating from her calming him in a way nothing else could.

    He felt a fragile sense of peace creeping in, as though her presence had the power to mend the broken pieces inside him.

    "Thank you for being in my life," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Evelyn looked up at him, her eyes full of love and understanding.

    "There''s nowhere else I''d rather be"" she murmured as theyy tangled in each other''s arms.

    Tomorrow, they would face everything else together. For now, they had each other. And that was enough.

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 Chapter 213

    Chapter 213 +5

    The following day, Derek and Evelyn decided to see Sandra as nned before going to his parent''s home to inform them about their findings and also pick up Samantha.

    Derek tightened his grip on Evelyn''s hand as they approached the gray concrete walls of the prison.

    The air felt heavier here; the echoes of distant voices and the sharp ng of metal gates made Evelyn''s heart race. It was her first time in a prison environment, and she couldn''t help feeling uneasy.

    That morning Derek had tried to convince her once again that she shouldn''t visit Sandra, but she had insisted. Sandra had asked to see her, and no matter howplicated her feelings were, she needed to know why.

    A guard led them through a series of security checks until they reached a small visitation room. A metal table stood at the center, nked by two sets of chairs. Evelyn''s eyes drifted to the scratched surface of the table, her thoughts swirling with uncertainty. The door on the opposite side creaked open, and Sandra entered.

    Evelyn''s breath caught as she took in the sight of her. Sandra was a shadow of her former self. Her once-vibrantplexion was now pale, her cheeks hollow. Her hair, tied back in a limp ponytail,cked its usual luster. Dressed in a standard-issue prison uniform, she looked smaller, as though the weight of her actions had physically diminished her.

    Sandra walked in, her eyes fixed on the ground. She seemed reluctant to meet their gaze, her hands nervously twisting together as she lowered herself into the chair opposite them. Her shoulders were hunched, and her eyes remained fixed on the table. Evelyn felt a pang of pity despite everything Sandra had done.

    "How are you?" Evelyn''s voice was soft, carrying an unexpected note of concern.

    Sandra''s head jerked up, her eyes wide with surprise. She hadn''t expected Evelyn to ask that. "I''m... fine," she replied hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you foring." Derek leaned forward, his expression hard. "She shouldn''t havee. I didn''t want her to. But she insisted." His voice carried an edge of warning. "Don''t make me regret bringing her here."

    Sandra nodded quickly, her gaze flicking to Derek before returning to Evelyn. "I won''t," she said. Her voice wavered as she continued,This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

    "I-I wanted to apologize. For everything."

    Evelyn''s brow furrowed, but she said nothing, waiting for Sandra to exin.

    Sandra swallowed hard, her hands trembling as theyy sped on the table. "''ve had a lot of time to think she began, her voice trembling. "And I''ve realized how wrong I was. My anger at you, Evelyn- it wasn''t justified. You didn''t deserve what I did and tried to do to you." Her eyes brimmed with tears as she looked at Evelyn. "Even when you found out about my affair with Michael, you didn''t expose me. You didn''t ruin me, even though you could have."

    "Is that why you wanted to see her?" Derek interrupted, his voice

    cold. "To justify your sudden change of heart? To tell her you''ve finallye to your senses? Because if that''s all, she doesn''t need to hear it. We''re leaving."

    Sandra flinched at his tone, but before she could respond, Evelyn ced a calming hand on Derek''s arm. He turned to her, his jaw clenched, but her gentle touch seemed to defuse some of his tension.

    She could tell that Derek was mad at Sandra for what her father had done to his parents and for what Sandra had almost done to her.

    "Why now?" Evelyn asked, her voice steady butced with curiosity. "Why did you ask to see me?"

    Sandra''s lips quivered, "I promised God that I would do this if he brought Mom back to life."

    Evelyn hesitated, "Do you know why your biological father went to jail?"

    Sandra''s brows knitted together in confusion. "What do you mean?"

    "Your biological father, Victor Harding," Evelyn said, and Sandra''s frown deepened, and she shook her head slowly.

    "How did you know about him? Did Mom tell you? Why are you asking me that?" she whispered.

    Evelyn exhaled deeply, her eyes locking with Sandra''s. "Your biological father murdered Derek''s biological parents."

    The color drained from Sandra''s face. Her lips parted in shock, and her eyes darted to Derek, then back to Evelyn "What?" she breathed, her voice barely audible. Tears welled up in her eyes, spilling over as she shook her head in disbelief. "No... that can''t be true."

    "It is, Evelyn said, her tone

    unwavering We recently uncovered the truth. He killed Derek''s parents and tried to cover it up. And now, you-you''ve followed in his footsteps, Sandra. You''ve hurt people, lied, manipted, all for your own gain."

    Sandra''s tears fell freely now, her body trembling as she absorbed Evelyn''s words. "I didn''t know," she choked out. "I swear, I didn''t know."

    Evelyn nodded slowly, her voice softening. "We know you weren''t aware. Even Mom had no idea it was Derek''s biological parents. I thought you should know."

    "I''m sorry," Sandra cried, looking from Evelyn to Derek, but Derek didn''t look at her, though his jaw tightened at the thought that her father had killed his parents and she had attempted to kill the woman he loved.

    "Like you, I promised that I''d forgive

    you if Mom woke up, so I have. But you need to understand something, Sandra." She leaned forward, her eyes piercing. "Mom doesn''t deserve a daughter like you- not after living with a man like your father, hope you stay here long enough to truly change because that''s the only way you can make things right."

    Sandra sobbed openly now, her hands covering her face as she broke down. Evelyn stood, her expression calm but resolute. Derek rose as well, his posture stiff with barely contained anger. "Let''s go," Evelyn said, her voice gentle but firm.

    Without another word, they turned and left, leaving Sandra to grapple with the weight of her actions and the truth Evelyn hadid before her.

 Chapter 214

    As they left the prison, the drive to Derek''s parents'' house was quiet. Evelyn asionally nced at Derek, noting the subtle tension in his jaw.

    She reached out to ce a reassuring hand on his thigh, and he gave her a small smile.

    When they arrived, Samantha''sughter echoed through the house before they even stepped inside. Derek''s mother opened the door, beaming at them. "Come in,e in. Samantha''s been waiting for you both all day." In the living room, Samantha was perched on Derek''s father''sp, giggling as he made silly faces. Her eyes lit up when she saw her parents, and she scrambled down, running toward them.

    "Mommy! Daddy!" she squealed, her little legs carrying her as fast as they could.

    Seeing Samantha, the remnant of Derek''s bad mood evaporated, and he crouched down and scooped her up in one fluid motion, twirling her in the air. "There''s my favorite girl!" he said, nting a kiss on her cheek. Samantha giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I missed you, Daddy!"

    "I missed you too, sweetheart," Derek said, holding her close

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. "Wait a minute. I

    thought I was your favorite girl."

    Samantha turned to her mother, her expression serious. "Mommy, you''re not a girl. You''re a mommy. Daddy''s favorite girl is me.

    You''re his favorite wife."

    Evelyn and Derek burst intoughter as Derek''s parents joined in theughter. Derek hugged Samantha tighter. "Well, you''ve got me there, baby."

    Evelyn smiled and kissed Samantha''s forehead. "Noted. We missed you so much, darling. Aunt Maya has missed you, too. And guess who else has missed you?" Evelyn asked, and Samantha grinned. "Grandparents Quinn?" She asked, and Evelynughed.

    "Exactly. And guess what? Your Grandma ire is waiting for you at home," Derek said, Samantha''s eyes widened.

    "Really? Is Grandma ire at our house? Is Grandpa there too?" She asked, and Evelyn nodded.

    "They sure are" Evelyn confirmed, smiling at her daughter''s excitement.

    "So, are you ready to go home?" Derek asked, and Samantha nodded enthusiastically, her hair bouncing.

    "Yes! I can''t wait!" She said, jumping.

    "Don''t be too excited to leave, dear. You''re breaking my heart,"

    Derek''s father said, and they allughed.

    "Don''t worry, I''m going to fix it," Samantha promised, kissing her palm and cing it on his chest.

    Derek''s father chuckled. "It feels much better, my little heart doctor," he said, and Samantha giggled.

    As Derek and Evelyn sat down, Derek''s mother''s warm gaze followed Evelyn. "How are you feeling, dear?"

    Evelyn smiled. "I''m fine, thank you."

    Derek''s father chimed in, his tone teasing. "I hope Derek isn''t stressing you out too much."

    Evelynughed, shaking her head. "Quite the opposite. He''s been pampering me so much it''s starting to stress me out." The room filled withughter, and Derek rolled his eyes yfully.

    "You''re wee," he quipped.

    He then turned to Samantha. "Why don''t you head to your room for a bit, munchkin? The grown-ups need to talk."

    Samantha pouted but nodded. "Okay, Daddy." She skipped off, humming to herself.

    "I hope she hasn''t been stressing you out and has been on her best behavior?" Evelyn asked, and Derek''s motherughed.

    "You ask like I''m supposed to report my granddaughter to you. It''s the grandparent''s duty to spoil the grandkid," she said, and Evelynughed.

    As the door to Samantha''s room clicked shut, Derek''s parents turned to him with expectant expressions.

    "Did you hear from the investigator?" his father asked, suspecting that was what Derek wanted to talk about.

    Derek nodded, his face serious. "I did. But there''s a new development."

    His mother frowned. "What kind of development?"

    Derek hesitated, his voice low, when he finally spoke. "Do you know a man named Carter Reed?"

    His parents exchanged a look, their expressions shifting from confusion to recognition.

    "Yes," his father said slowly. "We weren''t close, but he was a journalist. A good one."

    "Yeah. He was pretty decent. It was a shame how he was brutally murdered with his family," Derek''s mother added.

    "Why do you ask?" His father asked curiously.

    Derek took a deep breath. "Because he was my biological father."

    His mother gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "What? How is that possible?"

    Derek exined everything ire had told him, his voice steady despite the emotional weight of the revtion.

    When he finished, his mother shook her head in disbelief. "All this time... everything we needed to know was right there, and we didn''t see it."

    "It''s because we weren''t looking," Derek''s father said, his voice thoughtful. "The universe has a way of bringing things full circle, of putting everything in its rightful ce."

    Derek''s mother exhaled shakily. "I remember how ruthless Victor was. It''s no surprise that he was Sandra''s father: Do you know he had the audacity to threaten us when we canceled his contract? But we were so focused on our little boy, on making sure he was okay, that we didn''t have the energy to pursue it further."

    Derek tilted his head. "What do you mean? What happened?" He asked, wanting to know if that was indeed how their son had died.

    All these years, he had never been able to bring himself to ask how they had lost their son.

    His mother''s eyes softened with sadness. "Our little boy was with your father at the site that day. When the building copsed, he was trapped under the rubble. Some of the rods pierced his chest. He was hospitalized for a while, but he didn''t survive."

    Derek''s father''s voice was heavy. "It

    was Carter who helped us expose Victor. The copse was a big deal and we went through a lot while trying to take care of our son and what was happening with him a secret. Without Carter, we wouldn''t have gotten justice."

    "And now... now, his son is ours. It''s unbelievable, Derek''s mother said as she reached out, touching Derek''s cheek. "Your biological parents. would be so proud of you. And so

    1.n

    are we. You''ve be such an

    incredible man." This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

    Derek''s throat tightened, but he managed a smile. "Thank you.

    That means everything."

    His mother''s eyes glistened with unshed tears. "You''ve brought so much light to our lives, Derek. No matter where you came from, you''re ours. Always."

    The room fell silent, the weight of

    the past mingling with the hope of the present. Derek nced at Evelyn, who gave him a reassuring nod. Together, they were piecing their

    lives back together, one step at a time.

    MS

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 Chapter 215

    The morning air was still crisp when Ethan stepped out of the hospital''s automatic doors with his injured arm tucked in its sling and Rayna by his side.

    Melvin had offered to pick him up and drive him to his ce, but Ethan had declined his help, saying they had everything under control and Melvin would only get in the way since he would prefer to be alone with Rayna. Ethan''s steps were slow and springy as they approached Rayna''s car, and the grin on his face was bright enough to rival the sun.

    Rayna adjusted the strap of his overnight bag slung over her shoulder and gave him a side nce. "You''re walking like you just got out of prison."

    Ethan smirked. "Feels like it. Fresh air, freedom, and you. What more could a man ask for?"

    Rayna giggled, "You never stop, do you?"

    He nudged her gently with his good arm. "Do you want me to?"

    "No, I don''t," Rayna shook her head, unable to hide her smile.

    She walked ahead of him to the car, opening the passenger door and gesturing dramatically. "Your chariot awaits, my lord."

    Ethan chuckled. "I should be the one doing this for you," he said with a sigh as he got into the car.

    "You will. I assure you that this is temporary. I have no intention of ying the man," she said, and Ethan chuckled as she helped him settle into his seat and fasten his seatbelt.

    He let her fuss, his eyes never leaving her face. When she finally finished and pulled back to leave, he stopped her.

    "You missed a spot."

    She paused, confused. "What spot?"

    "My lips""" he replied with a mischievous grin.

    Rayna rolled her eyes but leaned in, brushing a soft kiss against his lips before pulling back. "All set?"

    "Perfect," Ethan murmured, his voice low and tender.

    Rayna giggled as she closed the door and moved around to the driver''s side to get into the car.

    "So, do you have your stuff in the car?" Ethan asked Rayna since she was moving into his ce.

    Rayna sighed inwardly, unable to shake off the wistful feeling she was having. As much as she had been looking forward to meeting a man and getting married, she had not really thought about moving out of her house.

    And even now, she felt like it was all happening too quickly. She knew that moving in with Ethan now meant that she might never really go back to her ce after he recovered because he would want to get married quickly. "Are you okay?" Ethan asked when she didn''t respond to his question, and she turned to look at him.

    "Yeah. I''m fine. Some of my things are in the trunk," she said, and Ethan watched her, trying to figure out what the problem was.

    "Is something bothering you?" He asked, and she shrugged.

    "Not really," she said, not wanting to talk about it.

    She was sure she would figure it out soon enough. And maybe when he recovered and went back to work, she could go to her ce.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.

    Ethan watched her, wondering what she was thinking, but seeing as she didn''t want to talk about it, he decided not to press, and just wait until she was ready to share.

    When they reached Ethan''s home, Rayna parked the car in the driveway and got out quickly, moving to his side to help him out.

    "I''m not an invalid""" Ethan protested as she opened his door.

    "Maybe not, but your argument is invalid. See what I did there?" She asked with a wink, and Ethan chuckled at her quick wit.

    "Now listen," Rayna said, looking at him with a serious expression,

    "if you keep iming you can do everything yourself, that means I''m not needed, so I might just as well leave you here and go home. If you want this arrangement to work, you must allow me to nurse you," she said, fixing her gaze on him. "Alright. I''m going to let you nurse me. You can bathe me and even

    take me to the restroom," he said, and Raynaughed.

    "Good. Now hush and let me help you," she said as she took hold of his bag with one hand and supported him out of the car with the other.

    Ethan sighed dramatically but allowed her to guide him to the door. Inside, the familiar warmth of his home greeted them, and Ethan visibly rxed. Rayna set his bag down and turned to face him.

    "You''re wee to my abode"" Ethan said, and Rayna smiled.

    "It''s not my first time here," she reminded him since she had dropped by two days ago to take a look around his ce and at his kitchen so she would know how much space he had and what work tools to bring with her.

    "I wasn''t here when you came," he reminded her.

    "Couch or bed?" she asked, hands on her hips.

    "Neither. Kitchen," Ethan replied without missing a beat. "I need coffee. And I need to get my guest some refreshments."

    "Sit down. I''ll get the coffee. And I don''t need refreshments"" she said and turned to leave.

    Just as she turned, Ethan tapped her ass, and Rayna gaped at him in surprise when she turned.

    Ethan grinned, "I figured since you used me of that at the club and it caused all the problems between us, I should get a feel of it,"

    he exined with a wink.

    Before Rayna could stop herself, she burst into peals ofughter,

    "Are you out of your mind?" She asked, and he nodded.

    "I must be tam"" he said, "and when my hand gets all better, we are going back to the club, and I''m going to beat the crap out of the guy that touched my girl''s ass," he promised, and Raynaughed.

    "You will do no such thing. Besides, you don''t even know the person," she said, and Ethan shrugged.

    "That''s easy enough. I know the group of guys. All I need to do is make them tell me which one did it, he said, and Rayna shook her head.

    "That might have been their first orst time at the club. And even if it weren''t, I''d rather forget it."

    He opened his mouth to argue but stopped when she leveled him with a stern re. "Fine," he muttered.

    "Good boy. Now wait here while I get your coffee, and then I''ll go get my things out of the car," Rayna said, heading to the kitchen.

    Ethan sank into the couch with exaggerated care. "I take my coffee ck," he called out.

    "I''m aware""" she called back.

    Ethan leaned back, listening to theforting sounds of Rayna moving around his kitchen. The clink of mugs, the hiss of the

    coffee machine-it all felt so domestic, so right. He closed his eyes, letting the moment sink in.

    When Rayna returned with two mugs, she found him with a soft smile ying on his lips. "What''s that look for?" she asked, handing him his coffee.

    "Just thinking about how perfect this is. You. Here. Us," he said, cing his mug on the table near him and pulling her down so that she was seated beside him. Rayna''s cheeks warmed as she sank down beside him. "Easy, so you don''t hurt yourself."

    "I won''t hurt myself. I just need a little sugar for my coffee," he said, kissing her, and she giggled

    "Why are you so naughty?" She asked when he pulled away, and he took a careful sip before answering.

    "Hm. The coffee does taste a lot better. I need more," he said, and she pulled back.

    "I need to go get my bags""" she said, and Ethan gave her a puppy look.

    "The bags are not running, but my coffee will get cold," he said, and she rolled her eyes as she kissed him, and then he sipped his coffee again making her grin.

    "You have the most kissable lips I''ve kissed," he said, and she raised a brow.

    "And how many lips have you kissed?" Rayna asked, and Ethan groaned.

    "Forget I said that," he said, but she scowled at him.

    "How many?" She repeated.

    "Not many. I can''t even remember the names or faces," he said, and she eyed him with disbelief.

    "How manydies have you dated?"

    "Didn''t you want to go get the bags?" Ethan asked, and Rayna smiled sweetly.

    "I can''t leave now. You want some sugar for your coffee, remember?" She asked, and Ethan chuckled.

    "I love you, Ray. I think I might just quit my job and join Melvin in running the family business so I don''t stay away from you," he said, and her breath hitched.

    "I didn''t put any alcohol in your coffee, so I know you''re not drunk.

    Why are you saying what you don''t mean?" she asked, raising her brow.

    "Do I look like the kind of guy who says things he doesn''t mean?" he asked, his voice gentle.

    Rayna smiled, her fingers brushing over his good hand. "No. You''re too blunt for that." "Exactly." Ethan leaned closer, his eyes locking with hers. "I''m

    serious, Ray. This... being with you, it''s everything I didn''t know I needed."

    She felt her throat tighten, emotions bubbling to the surface. "But you love your job."

    "Yeah. But I love you more than my job. I don''t find the thought of being away from you for months so appealing It might have worked if t didn''t love you, but I''m really into you. And I''ve realized I''m so damned clingy with you. I get sick when you''re far away from me for so long. If get sick on the ship, I can''t do my work," he said. Raynaughed as tears gathered in her eyes at his confession.

    "Ethan... you''re going to make me cry."

    "Good tears, I hope," he whispered, his forehead resting against hers.

    "The best tears," she replied, her voice shaky but full of warmth.

    "I also realized I want to be with my family. I want to stay with you when you get pregnant and be with you through every phase. I think you''re going to be very sexy when you''re pregnant," he said, and Rayna felt the butterflies in her belly flutter.

    "When you talk about pregnancy, you make me think about the act that leads to it," she said, and Ethan chuckled.

    "I want you to think about it," he said, kissing her then, soft and slow, as if the world outside didn''t exist.

    When they pulled apart, Rayna rested her head on his shoulder, careful of his injured arm.

    "Let''s just stay like this," Ethan mulmured.

    "For as long as you want," Rayna replied, thinking about how he was willing to give up his job for her sake, yet she was hesitating over leaving her house.

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 Chapter 216

    After dinner with the rest of the family, Derek, Evelyn, and Samantha retired to the bedroom.

    Evelyn sat propped against the headboard with a quiet smile on her face as she watched Derek and Samantha.

    Beside her, Dereky on his back, his strong arms yfully holding up a giggling Samantha.

    "Higher, Daddy! Higher!" Samantha squealed, herughter ringing through the room like music.

    Derek grinned and lifted her into the air again, making airne noises that sent her into a fit ofughter. Her little legs kicked wildly in excitement, and her cheeks flushed pink with joy. "You''re going to fly away at this rate"" Derek teased as he brought her back down onto his chest. Samantha''s hands clutched his shirt, her face glowing with happiness.

    "I''m not flying anywhere!" she announced between giggles. Then, in a sudden, sweet moment, Samantha wrapped her arms around Derek''s neck, pulling him into a tight hug. Her voice turned soft, full of love. "I love you, Daddy."

    Derek''s heart melted, and his smile faltered as his eyes softened.

    He tightened his arms around her, pressing a kiss to the side of her head. "I love you more, baby."

    "No, I love you more"" Samantha argued, her face serious as she pulled back to look at him. Derek raised an eyebrow, pretending to look shocked. "That''s impossible. I love you the most." Samantha shook her head stubbornly, her curls bouncing. "Nope!! love you the mostest!"

    Watching the sweet scene from her spot on the bed, Evelyn couldn''t help butugh. Her heart swelled as she looked at the two people she loved more than anything in the world. "Alright, you two," she said, her voice light and yful, "you both are wrong. I love you both the most."

    Derek turned his head to look at Evelyn, a slow smile spreading across his face. Samantha turned, too, her eyes bright with curiosity.

    "I love you two the most," Derek said, and Samantha shook her head.

    "Mommy is always right, so she has to win"" Samantha said with a dramatic sigh, making her parentsugh.

    Derek and Evelyn exchanged a knowing look as the yfulness quieted. Something gentle passed between them, an unspoken agreement. It was time. Evelyn gave him a slight nod, her smile softening. "Baby," Evelyn began, her voice tender, "there''s something we want to tell you."

    Samantha tilted her head, her eyes darting between her parents.

    "Did you get me a new toy?" she asked curiously.

    Derek chuckled, "No, darling. But we can get you as many as you want," he promised.

    "Then what?" Samantha asked, looking from Derek to Samantha.

    Evelyn reached out and smoothed Samantha''s wild curls. "Well," she said with a smile, "there''s one more person for us all to love now."

    Samantha''s smile widened. "Is it Aunt Maya?"

    Evelyn chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Maya is very special to us, but no, sweetheart. There''s someone else we want you to meet."

    Samantha''s brows furrowed in confusion. "Who?"

    Samantha watched with curiosity as her father turned to the nightstand and opened the drawer, pulling out the ultrasound picture. He handed the picture to her, and she received it carefully. "Do you know what this is, baby?" Derek asked gently.

    Samantha frowned, studying the picture intently. "Is it a drawing?" she asked, squinting her eyes as she turned it this way and that.

    Evelyn and Derek exchanged a quietugh. "Not quite, love," Evelyn said softly.

    Derek sat up straighter and grabbed his phone. "Here," he said,

    swiping through until he found a simr photo. "Do you know what this is, Sam?" he asked as he showed her the image.

    Samantha stared at it, her face nk. "No..."

    Derek''s voice was gentle as he said, "That was you, sweetheart when you were in Mommy''s tummy."

    Samantha''s little mouth dropped open, and she turned her wide eyes toward Evelyn. "Me? In your tummy?"Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

    Evelyn nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, love. That''s you before you were born."

    "But there is nobody in this. I can''t see myself here," she said, looking back at the picture on Derek''s phone.

    "That''s because you were very tiny. But this little shape here was you," Evelyn said, leaning closer to show Samantha the shape she was referring to.

    Samantha looked back at the photo in her hands, staring at it with awe. "Is this a baby, too?" she asked, and her parents nodded.

    "Yes, darling," Evelyn said softly.

    "But this baby is not me?" She asked, wanting to be sure.

    "This is a different baby," Derek said with a slight nod.

    "Is there a baby... in there now?" Samantha asked quietly, her voice trembling with wonder as her gaze shot back to Evelyn''s stomach. Evelyn smiled and ced a hand on her belly. "Yes, Sam. There''s a baby in here right now. You finally get to have a younger one."

    For a moment, the room was silent.

    Samantha blinked, her small face filled with amazement. Then,

    without warning, she let out a tinvet

    gasp and scrambled forward, wrapping her arms around Evelyn''s belly as far as they would go. Her voice broke with excitement.

    "There''s a baby in there! Mommy, there''s a baby in there!"

    Evelyn let out a softugh, tears stinging her eyes at her daughter''s pure joy. "Yes. There''s a baby in here," she said as she embraced Samantha.

    Samantha lifted her head, her little face glowing with happiness.

    "Mommy, Daddy-I''m gonna be a big sister!"

    "Yes, sweetheart," Derek said softly, his voice thick with emotion as he watched his family. "You''re going to be the best big sister ever."

    Samantha turned to look at him, her eyes suddenly shiny with tears she didn''t quite understand. "Do you think it is going to be a boy or a girl? Or will there be two?" Samantha asked excitedly.

    Evelynughed, "I don''t think there will be two. And we can''t tell yet whether it is going to be a boy or a girl. Why? Do you have a problem with either?"

    Samantha pursed her lips, "If it''s a girl, we can y with my dolls and have lots of tea time together, but if it''s a boy, I don''t know what we can do together. Will the baby love me, too?"

    Evelyn''s heart swelled as she leaned closer, brushing a kiss over Samantha''s forehead. "Of course, the baby will love you, Sam. And there is a lot you can do with your little brother too. You can also have tea time with him and y with other toys." Derek reached out and ced his hand on Samantha''s shoulder.

    "You already have the biggest heart. That baby is so lucky to have you."

    Samantha''s lip trembled, and she

    looked as if she might cry for a moment. But then a bright smile broke across her face, and she threw herself into Derek''s arms first, hugging him tightly, before crawling

    back to Evelyn and pressing her

    cheek against her tummy,

    "Hi, baby," she whispered softly, her voice filled with love. "I''m your big sister. I''m going to love you forever."

    Samanthay curled up next to

    Evelyn''s tummy, her little hand

    resting there as if she could feel the

    new life within. "I can''t wait to meet

    you. You can be a boy or a girl; don''t mind as long as I get to be your big sister," she whispered again, her voice full of promise.

    Tears slipped silently down Evelyn''s cheeks as she looked up at Derek. His eyes mirrored her own, brimming with emotion. No words were needed between them.

    Evelyn reached for Derek''s hand, and as their fingersced together, they knew that this moment- this little family of theirs - was perfect, and the love in the room felt bigger than words.

    Derek leaned in close to Evelyn, pressing a kiss to her temple.

    "Thank you for this. I love you," he murmured.

    Evelyn turned to him, her voice soft but steady. "I love you too."

    Samantha continued to "talk" to the baby until she fell asleep, and then Derek took her to her bedroom and tucked her in.

    Derek smiled as he returned to join Evelyn in bed. "She was still talking to the baby in her sleep as Iy her down," he said, and she giggled.

    "That''s all she is going to be talking about now. I can imagine her telling my parents and Maya about it tomorrow," Evelyn said, and Derek chuckled.

    "I''m just so d she didn''t ask how the baby got into your stomach," Derek said, and Evelyn giggled.

    "That she didn''t ask today doesn''t mean she''s not going to ask some other time. So, get ready for it, Evelyn advised.

    Derek shook his head, "I have a lot of reading to do. I''ve gotten quite a number of books on parenting," he said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "Really? You''re such a good dad," she said, and he sighed softly.

    "I want to be a great dad to my kids. But mostly, I want to be a great husband to you," he said, and she smiled.

    "I do not doubt that you''ll be both," she said confidently.

    "Do you think we should tell Samantha about Maya? I''m not sure how to exin how we got separated and about our parents?" Derek asked, since the reason they were yet to mention it to her was because he wasn''t sure how to exin it. Evelyn shook her head, "We can always tell her when she is older and can understand. For now all she needs to know is that Maya is her Aunt," Evelyn said, and Derek nodded.

    "Yeah. Good idea."

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 Chapter 217

    After the close of work the following day, Derek and Evelyn headed for Ethan''s house. They stopped by a wine shop on their way for a bottle of wine to celebrate his discharge and recovery.

    With the bottle in hand, they headed to Ethan''s house, and when they arrived, Derek knocked lightly.

    Momentster, Rayna swung the door open. "Evie!" Rayna eximed, pulling her friend into a warm hug. "It feels like forever since I''ve seen you properly."

    "It really does"" Evelyn replied, her voice tinged with guilt. "We need to catch up."

    Rayna stepped aside to let them in. "We definitely do. Come in, both of you."

    Inside, the house was cozy and inviting, with soft lighting and the faint aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from the kitchen. Ethan was seated on the couch, his injured arm still in its sling, but his face lit up when he saw them. "Look who decided to show up!" he teased, his grin wide.

    Derek raised the bottle. "Bearing your favorite wine. Thought you''d appreciate it."

    Ethan chuckled. "You know me too well. Thanks, man," Ethan said and then smiled at Evelyn.

    "Hello, Evelyn. It''s always good to see you," he said, and Evelyn smiled.

    "It''s good to see you, too. How are you feeling? I hope my girl is taking good care of you?" She asked, and Ethan nced at Rayna, his eyes filled with love for her.

    "She''s the absolute best," he said, and Rayna grinned.

    Before Evelyn could sit down, Rayna looped her arm through Evelyn''s. "I''m stealing her, she dered, giving Ethan a pointed look. "You boys can talk about whatever it is men talk about. Evelyn and I need some girl time" she said as Derek sat down across from Ethan.

    Ethan waved them off. "Go ahead. Derek and I can handle ourselves."

    Evelynughed softly as Rayna led her toward the kitchen. Once they were out of earshot, Rayna poured two sses of juice and motioned for Evelyn to sit at the small dining table.

    "So," Rayna began, sliding a ss toward Evelyn. "What''s been going on with you? You''ve been so busytely."

    Evelyn sipped her water, buying herself a moment. "I''ll tell you everything," she promised, "but only after you tell me how you''re doing. It shouldn''t always be about me. How''s everything with Ethan? And the business?"

    Rayna sighed, her gaze softening. "It''s been a lot, honestly. Taking care of Ethan while running my business has been... challenging, to say the least. But now that he''s out of the hospital, I think things will get a bit easier. Or at least, I hope so."

    Evelyn studied her friend''s face, noticing the faint lines of worry etched at the corners of her eyes. "Is there something bothering you?" she asked gently.

    Rayna hesitated, then shrugged. "Not exactly. It''s just that moving in with Ethan feels like such a big step. I love him, I really do, but I didn''t think it would happen so fast. I guess I''m still adjusting to the idea. I love my house, and I didn''t think I''d feel so attached or sad about leaving it."

    "Have you talked to him about how you''re feeling?" Evelyn asked, leaning forward.

    Rayna shook her head. "No. I don''t want to sound selfish, especially when he''s considering giving up his job to be closer to me."

    "He said that?" Evelyn asked, surprised, and Rayna nodded.

    "Yeah. His family owns a shipbuildingpany. He thinks maybe it''s time he joined the family business so he could focus on starting a family. I had been hoping that when he recovered and returned to work, I could go back to my ce. I know this probably doesn''t make sense, but it''s just how I feel," she said with a soft sigh.

    Evelyn reached across the table, taking Rayna''s hand. "Ray, rtionships are all aboutmunication. You have to tell him how you feel just as you re telling me about it. Otherwise, he won''t know, and you''ll keep carrying this on your own. Trust me, he''d want to know." Rayna sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips. "You re right. I''ll talk to him. I just don''t want to make it seem like I''m not willing to

    put in any effort or make any sacrifices."

    "I don''t think Ethan will think about it that way," Evelyn reassured her. "You re in this together. I''m sure he will appreciate your openness and honesty."

    Rayna nodded, her shoulders rxing slightly. "Thanks, Evie. I needed to hear that."

    "Anytime," Evelyn said warmly.

    "Now, your turn. What''s been going on with you?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn took a deep breath, her expression growing serious.

    "A lot, actually. We found Derek''s sister and also found out some... shocking things about his family."

    Rayna''s brow furrowed in concern. "What kind of things?"

    Evelyn exined everything- the connection between Derek and Maya, the revtion about their parents'' murder, and the role Sandra''s father had yed in it all. By the time she finished, Rayna was staring at her wide-eyed. "That''s... unbelievable," Rayna whispered. "How''s Derek handling all of this?"

    "It''s been hard on him," Evelyn admitted. "But he''s strong. He''s coping."

    Rayna shook her head, a smile breaking through her astonishment. "And Maya''s his sister? That''s amazing."

    "It is""" Evelyn agreed. "She''s been a blessing through all of this."

    Rayna''s eyes lit up. "I always liked her but thought she''d be ufortable if I got close since she was working for you. Maybe we can all hang out one of these days."

    Evelyn smiled. "That sounds like a great idea. I think she would like that."

    "It''s crazy, though, how Sandra''s father is involved in this," Rayna said with a shake of her head.

    "When I told her about it..."

    "You told her about it? When? Did you go to see her?" Rayna asked, and Evelyn nodded and told her about the visit over the weekend.

    "I don''t feel sorry for her. And I am not going to forgive her either. I didn''t make any promise to anyone to forgive her. I hope she rots in there," Rayna hissed, and Evelyn smiled.

    "I understand how you feel, Ray. And I''m not asking you to forgive her," Evelyn said softly.

    "You''d better not. So, what''s the n? Now that all of this has been settled, when are you two getting married?" Rayna asked curiously.

    Evelyn smiled, "When he proposes to me, we will get married."

    "Or maybe you can just propose since he''s taking too long," Rayna suggested.

    "No. I''m not doing that. I''m going to wait, even if it takes him a year. I believed deserve a proper proposal. And I''m not sophisticated enough to want to propose to a man," she said, and Rayna rolled her eyes.

    "Obviously," she said dryly, and they bothughed.

    Rayna sighed after a while, "Life''s strange, though- full of coincidences and twists."

    Evelyn nodded. "Life really is. But I''m beginning to think that it''s those twists and turns that make it interesting, don''t you think?"

    Rayna smiled. "I couldn''t agree more."

    After chatting for a while, they returned to join their men in the living room, and the moment the men heard them approaching, they stopped talking. "Why did you two stop talking?" Rayna asked curiously when she noticed the sudden silence.

    "We were giving a moment of silence in respect to the arrival of our beautifuldies," Derek joked, and both Evelyn and Raynaughed.

    "That was a good one," Ethan said with a chuckle.

    They all chatted for a while, and then Derek and Evelyn left since they wanted to get home in time to have dinner with Samantha and the rest of the family. After seeing them off, Ethan and Rayna returned inside. As they

    settled on the couch, Rayna decided to talk to Ethan about her worries.

    "Ethan?" She called softly as he scrolled through Netflix in search of a movie they could see.

    "Yes, sugar," he said, turning to look at her.

    "There''s something I want to talk to you about" she said hesitantly, and his gaze roamed over her face before he gave her a nod.

    "Sure. Go ahead," he urged her softly.

    "It''s about my apartment," she said, pausing as she tried to find the right words to express herself.

    "What about it?" Ethan asked, judging from her expression that it was something serious to her.

    She remembered that Evelyn had suggested she talk to Ethan the same way she had confided in her, so she took a deep breath and plunged on.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.

    "I''m attached to my ce. I''ve been living there for such a long time, and now it''s just really hard to move out so suddenly.."

    "You don''t want to stay here? Do you want to move back there?

    Don''t you like this ce?" He asked, trying to understand what she was saying.

    Rayna shook her head, "It''s not that. Here is lovely and way more spacious and conducive for indoor baking than my ce. I''m just having a hard time letting go of the apartment," she said, and Ethan stayed silent for a moment, searching her face.

    When he didn''t say anything for a

    moment, she rushed to assure him, "It has nothing to do with our rtionship, and I don''t want you to think I''m selfish or I don''t appreciate I your thoughtful decision to quit your job so that you can be more

    It doesn''t change anything. I just wanted you to know how I''m feeling. We don''t have to do anything about it. I''m sure I will adjust soon enough," she babbled on. "What do you think we can do about it?" Ethan finally asked, and she shook her head.

    "Nothing. You don''t have to..."

    "I would have offered to move in

    with you, but like you just pointed out, my ce is more spacious and conducive, and it''s logical you move in with me. But what if when my hand feels better, you return to your

    ce, and we date for a few your

    months? Do you think doing that will help you feel better and slowly get ustomed to the idea of moving out?"

    "But you want to get married soon..."

    "Yes. I want to. But don''t forget that was also because of my job.

    But now that I''m considering quitting, it means I have more time.

    And giving you a couple of months to make up your mind wouldn''t be too much of a sacrifice for our future together," he said, and Rayna smiled

    "You''re sure about that?" She asked, and he nodded.

    "Absolutely. And I''m happy you talked to me about it. I hope you will always do that, he said as he kissed her forehead.

    "I will she promised softly as she leaned her head against his shoulder. I''m so relieved now. Thank you."

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 Chapter 218

    As Derek and Evelyn drove home after leaving Ethan''s ce, Evelyn turned to Derek with a grin, "You know Friday is only a few days away, right?" "Yeah. Why?" Derek asked, acting like he didn''t know.

    "You haven''t forgotten what it means, have you?" Evelyn asked, and Derek feigned a frown.

    "What is it? Our anniversary?" He asked, and when she red at him, he chuckled.

    "It''s the interview, I know. I''m ready for it," he said, and she smiled.

    "We can go over the questions..."

    "There won''t be any need for that. I trust you. You can ask me whatever questions," he said, and she paused.

    "You remember it''s going to be a live television interview, right?" She asked, and he nodded.

    "Yes. I know that," he assured her, "This interview made us cross paths and brought you back into my life. The least I can do is give it my best."

    "Okay then," she said with a wide smile, looking forward to the interview.

    Derek smiled, also looking forward to the interview.

    On Friday, Derek arrived at The People''s Times building some minutes before noon since the interview was scheduled for noon.

    As Derek stepped out of his car, he straightened his tailored navy suit and adjusted the silver tie that Evelyn had chosen for him to wear that day. He took a deep breath, his confidence unshaken and his excitement undeniable.

    As he entered the lobby of Evelyn''s office, a young receptionist greeted him with a warm smile. "Mr. Stone, wee to The People''s Times. Ms. Evelyn will be with you shortly."

    Because of his rtionship with Evelyn and his frequent visits to the office to pick her up or drop her off, he had be a regr face there.

    Before Derek could respond, Evelyn appeared from an adjacent hallway; her fitted burgundy dress and sleek bun radiating professionalism. Her face lit up with a weing smile as she approached him.

    "Good morning, Mr. Stone," she greeted, extending her hand before he could embrace her as she knew he wanted to do.

    Derek scowled at her and eyed her with disapproval as he took her hand, "Ms. Evelyn," Derek replied, leaning in slightly.

    His voice dropped an octave as he added, "You look breathtaking.

    I want to kiss you."

    Evelyn resisted the urge to giggle, but a blush stole up her cheeks,

    "We''re on the clock, Derek. Let''s keep it professional, shall we?"

    Derek smirked, clearly enjoying the effect he had on her. "As you wish, Ms. Evelyn. Lead the way."

    As Evelyn led him down a corridor toward the interview room, Derek watched the sway of her hips and grinned, "I should walk behind you more often, Ms. Evelyn. Your backside is lovely. Professionally speaking," he added, and she giggled.

    "Shut up, Derek" she hissed under her breath.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.

    "Your man must be so lucky," he drawled as he looked around to make sure they were alone before tapping her ass.

    Evelyn gasped as she turned to re at him, but seeing the naughty smile on his face, her lips twitched. "This could be considered workce harassment, you know?" she asked, and he chuckled.

    "For you, I don''t mind going to jail," he said, and she shook her head with augh as she continued down the hallway.

    The sound of tapping keyboards and quiet conversations filled the air, underscoring the busy morning.

    She stopped at arge ss door and gestured for him to enter.

    Inside, the room was perfectly lit, with cameras and microphones meticulously arranged. A few crew members gave him polite nods as he stepped in.

    "This is where the magic happens"" Evelyn said, motioning for him to take a seat across from her at a polished oak table. She adjusted her mic and made sure his mic was working as well before ncing at the crew. "Are we ready?" The director gave a thumbs-up. "We''re live in five, four, three..."

    Evelyn turned to Derek, her face calm but her eyes twinkling with anticipation. "Wee to The People''s Times. We''re honored to have you here today, Mr. Stone."

    "The honor is mine," Derek replied smoothly, shing his signature smile.

    Evelyn resisted the urge to smile back just as widely. She shed him a polite smile as she leaned back in her seat. Before we dive right into it, everyone has been curious about something. After years of avoiding the public eye, what motivated you to agree to this interview?

    Derek eyed her with amusement for a moment, wondering if she wanted him to lie or be honest. Deciding to go with the truth, since that was what was expected of him for the interview, her smiled, "I agreed because of the person who requested it." Evelyn bit back a smile but decided not to pursue it since she didn''t want him to reveal so much. She had felt the need to ask the question because it was expected, considering how he had remained elusive this whole time.

    "If I may ask, why did you avoid the public eye for so long? Who is Derek Stone? Why has he stayed hidden all these years?" Evelyn asked with a polite smile.

    Derek leaned forward slightly, his voice steady and engaging.

    "Well, Derek Stone is just a simple guy with aplicated story. I was born into a loving family, but circumstances led me to be adopted at a young age. My adoptive parents gave me a life I could only dream of. I owe everything I am today to their love and

    guidance. And I stayed hidden because I didn''t trust the media and didn''t want my face out there.

    Evelyn tilted her head thoughtfully. "Speaking of your adoption, there was a recent scandal about it that gained traction online. Would you like to address that?"

    Derek''s smile softened, and he

    nodded. "Absolutely. The rumors

    stemmed from a misunderstanding.

    My biological parents were

    el?

    murdered when I was very young, and my adoptive parent gave me the name of their precious son to protect me from the murderer of my biological parents and give me a fresh start. They didn''t do it because

    they wanted me to rece their child. No parents could rece a lost child. They selflessly gave me a chance at life, and I will always be grateful for the second chance they gave me."

    Evelyn gave him an approving nod. "Thank you for sharing that.

    Now, we ran a poll asking our viewers what questions they''d like you to answer. Shall we dive in?"

    Derek chuckled. "Go ahead. ''m ready."

    She nced at her notes, a yful glint in her eye. "One of the most popr questions was: is Derek Stone in a rtionship?" Derek threw his head back andughed. "Yes, I am. I''m in a very serious rtionship, actually. We have a daughter together."

    Evelyn''s lips twitched, trying to suppress a smile. "Well, I''m sure the viewers will be disappointed to hear that. The woman must be very lucky." Derek''s gaze locked onto hers, his expression turning sincere. "No, I''m the lucky one. My fianc¨¦e is the most thoughtful, intelligent,

    sexy, kind, and beautiful woman I''ve ever met."

    Evelynughed, shaking her head. "Mr Stone, you weren''t invited here to give a shout-out to your girlfriend. Andst I checked, you weren''t engaged."

    Derek leaned back, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

    "Not yet. But I will be as soon as she says yes."

    Evelyn raised a brow, her confusion evident. "Does that mean you have asked?"

    Derek grinned, but before he could answer, soft music began ying in the background- John Legend''s All of Me. Evelyn''s eyes widened in realization, and her hand flew to her mouth.

    "Derek..." she began, her voice barely above a whisper as she watched him stand up and move around the table to her. "What are you doing on live television?" She asked, darting her gaze towards the cameras.

    He dropped to one knee in front of her. "I got permission from your father and everyone who matters. I couldn''t think of a better time or ce to do this than right here, in front of the world. I want everyone to know what you mean to me."

    Tears welled in Evelyn''s eyes as Derek continued. "Evelyn Quinn, you are the best part of my life. I love you more than words can ever express, and I want to spend every day and night by your side.

    Will you marry me?"

    Evelyn let out augh, tears streaming down her face. "Yes"" she said, holding out her hand.

    Derek slipped the diamond ring onto her finger, the cameras capturing every moment. Evelyn looked at the crew and said, "Let''s take amercial break."

    As soon as the cameras stopped rolling, Evelyn threw her arms around Derek and kissed him for all they were both worth, the world around them fading away.

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 Chapter 219

    As Derek drove them home after the interview, Evelyn looked out the window, her mind still swirling with thoughts of the incredible day they''d had.

    The live proposal had been thest thing she''d expected, and her cheeks still hurt from smiling so much.

    She reached for Derek''s hand, squeezing it lightly. "I still can''t believe you did that on live television," she

    teased.

    Derek chuckled as he parked the car in front of their house, "I wanted everyone to know how much I love you."

    "Still, that was... surprising," she said with a grin, and Derekughed.

    "I''m d I could surprise you," he said as he got out of the car and opened her door.

    Before Evelyn could get out of the car, Derek leaned inside and kissed her, "You know I love you, right?" He asked, and she grinned

    "Yeah. I know. And I love you, too"" she said as she got out of the car, and they both headed for the front

    door.

    "I''m going to have to give Rayna a call so we can officially start nning the wedding. I wonder if she saw the interview. She''s going to be so upset you didn''t carry her along," Evelyn said with a giggle, which died on her lips the moment Derek opened the door, and a chorus of voices shouted, "Surprise!"

    Evelyn froze in the doorway, her eyes widening as she took in the scene before her. The living room had been transformed into a warm party space. Twinkling fairy lights adorned the walls, soft music yed in the background, and a table near the corner wasden with a beautifully decorated cake, trays of pastries, and an array of food and drinks.

    Her parents stood near the center of the room, beaming with pride. Derek''s parents were beside them, their hands sped as they exchanged knowing smiles. Rayna and Ethan waved from their own corner, and Maya stood near the food table with Liam, both grinning widely. But it was Samantha, holding a bouquet of daisies and bouncing on her toes, who stole Evelyn''s heart.

    "What... what is this?" Evelyn asked, her voice a mix ofughter and disbelief.

    Derek slipped an arm around her waist, guiding her inside. "This, my love, is our engagement party."

    "Surprise!" Samantha yelled again, making everyoneugh. She hurried over to join her parents and kissed Evelyn''s belly, saying hello to her younger sibling before handing the bouquet to her mother.

    "Thank you, darling," Evelyn said as she took the bouquet from Samantha and kissed her forehead.

    Evelyn turned to Derek again, her eyes sparkling with surprise. "When did you even have time to n this?

    How did I not know?"

    Derek shrugged, his grin mischievous. "I didn''t want you to know. That''s the whole point of a surprise." Evelyn turned to Rayna, narrowing her eyes yfully.

    "And you? You knew about this, didn''t you?"

    Rayna giggled, looking entirely too pleased with herself. "Of course I did. I baked the cake and pastries!"

    Evelyn gasped, pointing an usatory finger at her friend. "And yet you were the one asking me to propose to him just yesterday! You''re terrible!"

    Raynaughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I was just pulling your leg. Besides, it was so much fun watching Derek steal the show. Congrattions, you two," she said as she embraced Evelyn while Ethan pped Derek''s back as he congratted him.

    Their parents came forward to embrace and congratte them and then Maya stepped forward, pulling Evelyn into a tight hug. "Congrattions, Evelyn! You deserve all the happiness in the world."

    "Thank you, Maya,, Evelyn murmured, her heart full.

    As Maya stepped back to congratte Derek, Evelyn nced past Maya to Liam, who was standing with his hands in his pockets, with a small smile on his face.

    "Liam! It''s so good to see you."

    Liam stepped forward, shaking her hand warmly.

    "Congrattions, Evelyn. I stopped by to convince Maya to hang out with me, but I walked into a party instead. They invited me to stay, and, well, here I am."

    Evelyn chuckled, her smile soft. "I''m d you stayed."

    "Come now, Evie. We,dies, have to start nning the wedding at once," Reba said, and Evelynughed as she followed them while Derek joined the men, leaving Maya and Liam no choice but to part as well.

    As thedies discussed the wedding n, the men drank and talked about everything ranging from business to sports and politics, and each of them contributed adequately to the conversations.

    Samantha darted around the room, happily delivering

    slices of cake to everyone while the soft strains of music kept the atmosphere light and joyful.

    After some time, they all converged again, and Reba announced, "So, we''ve chosen a date for the wedding."

    "Already?" Evelyn''s father asked, and theyughed.

    "Yes. The wedding will be in three weeks," ire said with a wide smile.

    "Honey, what about your birthday party?" Derek''s father asked his wife, and she shook her head.

    "I won''t be celebrating my birthday party as nned.

    This is all the celebration I need. I''ll hand out the wedding invitation instead of my birthday invitation," she said with a proud smile.

    "Will three weeks be enough to n a wedding?" Ethan asked thoughtfully, hoping his hand would bepletely fine by then.

    "Even a week is enough to n a wedding if you have the money and know what you want," ire assured him.

    "Don''t worry about a thing, Evie; all you need to do is rx and tell us what you want. Between your Mom, Maya, Rayna, and me, you don''t need a nner," Reba said, and Samantha pouted.

    "Me too," she said, eyeing her grandmother with disapproval for not including her.

    "Oh, my darling. How could I leave you out? Of course, you''re the best nner in the house," Reba corrected, and they allughed

    "What if my arm is not healed by then?" Ethan asked Derek with a frown.

    "It should be. If it''s not, I''ll stand in for you," Liam suggested with a teasing smile.

    "And deprive me the chance of looking dashing before my girlfriend? Never!" Ethan said, and thediesughed.

    "Here I was thinking you were

    worried about your arm because you were concerned about not being able to assist me properly," Derek said dryly with a shake of his head and Ethan grinned at him.

    "Hopefully your arm will be fine by then. The doctor said it needs a week or two to heal, Rayna assured Ethan.

    "Although we won''t be having a long train, but you two should be part of the train," Evelyn said, looking from Maya to Liam, "and you guys need to bond over the

    nning," she said, referring to Derek and Liam.

    "Guys don''t bond over wedding nning. We bond over drinks and sports," Ethan said, and Derek eyed him.

    "If my FIANCEE says we should bond over nning, then we will do that," Derek said, and everyoneughed.

    "Good. I see you two having a very sessful home and happy family with that attitude. Women like to be right even when they''re wrong," Derek''s father said, his wife raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean? When am I ever wrong?" She asked, and he shook his head.

    "Never. You''re always right," he said, and everyoneughed.

    The evening passed in a blur ofughter, heartfelt toasts and stories as Derek''s and Evelyn''s parents talked about how they met and their proposal stories.

    As the party wound down, Maya saw Liam off to his car when it was time for him to leave for his shift at the clinic.

    "I will admit," Liam began, leaning against his car. I wanted to spend some time alone with you tonight,

    but this was a pretty great party."

    Maya smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

    "It was."

    Liam''s gaze softened. "Samantha is so happy. I''m happy for them."

    Maya nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I''ve been thinking, Liam. About us."

    Liam straightened, a flicker of hope lighting his eyes.

    "And?"

    She hesitated, then smiled softly. "I think we should be friends..."Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

    "No way. I''m not interested in being just friends with you," Liam cut in immediately, and Maya raised a brow.

    "I thought you wanted us to be friends?" She asked, and he shook his head.

    "Yes, I did. But that was before I realized I had feelings for you. I don''t want to just be friends with you," Liam said, and Maya rolled her eyes yfully.

    "As I was saying before, you rudely interrupted," she said, and Liam chuckled.

    "I think we should be friends for a while. Maybe we can spend a few weeks getting to know each other better. And if you''re sure about how you feel after that, we can think about dating. If you don''t mind dating a student, that is."

    Liam didn''t miss a beat. "I don''t mind dating a student as long as that student is you," he said with a grin.

    Mayaughed, taking a step back when he moved closer with a naughty smile. "Don''t jump the gun, Liam. Remember, we''re starting as friends."

    Liam smirked, his voice low and teasing. "Friends who kiss? ''Cause that''s the only friendship I want," he said, winking at her as he pouted his lips for a kiss.

    Maya''sughter rang out, bright and carefree. "Not a chance! Everyone''s inside, and I don''t need them watching."

    "I don''t care if everyone knows how much J love to kiss you," Liam said, his tone light but sincere.

    Maya shook her head, stillughing as she backed toward the door. "Goodnight, Liam. I''ll see you tomorrow."

    Before he could respond, she disappeared inside, leaving him smiling after her.

    When Maya returned to the living room, all eyes turned to her, grins and knowing looks spread across their faces. "Someone looks awfully happy," Derek teased, raising an eyebrow.

    Mayaughed, flopping onto the couch. "Leave me alone."

    The room erupted intoughter, the warmth and joy of the evening wrapping around Maya like a nket.

    "You both look really good together," ire said with a grin.

    "Yeah. He''s a fine young man. They

    both kept gazing at each other from across the room. If I didn''t know better, I''d think it was also their engagement party," Derek''s mother said, and everyoneughed while Maya blushed.

    "You''re all terrible" Maya murmured shyly, making themugh even more.

    Maya had a wide smile on her face as she watched them all, her heart swelling with gratitude. She was surrounded by love,ughter, and the promise of a bright future. She was grateful for the turn that her life had taken.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 220

    Although ire''s heart ached, she kept her back straight and her chin up as she followed the guard who was leading her through the halls of the correctional facility where Sandra was being kept with a visitor''s pass in hand.

    All her life, she never thought that she woulde to a ce like this for any reason, but here she was.

    Eric had wanted toe in with her, but she had refused. She had only let him drive her to the ce and asked him to wait outside until she was done. Maybe another time, they coulde in together to see Sandra. But for now, she wanted to see Sandra alone. "This way, ma''am," the guard said gruffly, opening a heavy door that groaned on its hinges.

    ire swallowed hard and nodded, stepping inside. Inside was a small room with a table and two chairs bolted to the floor.

    "She''ll be here shortly," the guard said before stepping out and locking the door behind him.

    ire sat down, her hands folded tightly in herp. She had rehearsed this moment in her head a hundred times, but now that she was here, every word seemed to escape her.

    The door opened again, and ire''s breath caught as Sandra shuffled in, her head bowed and hands cuffed in front of her.

    ire''s chest tightened as tears welled in her eyes at the sight of her beautiful daughter looking so thin and pale.

    When Sandra finally looked up and met her mother''s gaze, her face crumpled. "Mom.." Her voice broke as a sob tore from her throat, and the sound of her mother''s palm connecting with her cheeks echoed through the room.

    "How could you do this to me?" ire asked as her tears spilled over. "How could you make mee to see you in a ce like this?"

    "Sit down"" the guard ordered them.

    "I''m so sorry! I''m so sorry for everything I''ve done... for hurting you.N?velDrama.Org content rights.

    I didn''t mean to. I didn''t mean to push you!" Sandra cried, tears streaming down her cheeks as they both sat down.

    ire reached across the table, her hands shaking as she gently touched Sandra''s face, "No contact," the guard warned ire harshly, but ire didn''t pull away as she brushed off Sandra''s tears.

    "I never med you for it," ire said softly, her voice trembling.

    "I''ve forgiven you already."

    Sandra shook her head, her sobs making her words barely audible.

    "I didn''t push you on purpose... I swear. I-"

    "I know. I know it was an ident," ire interrupted gently. Her voice cracked, but she forced herself to keep speaking. "I know you didn''t mean to hurt me. And I thank God every day that it happened because it stopped you from doing something far worse. You didn''t hurt Evelyn."

    Sandra''s tear-streaked face was a mask of anguish. "If you had died, Mom, I wouldn''t have been able to live with myself. I wouldn''t have been able to forgive myself!"

    "But I didn''t die, Sandra." ire''s voice was firm, though her own tears betrayed her. "I''m here. And I came to tell you that it isn''t toote for you to change now and retrace your steps."

    Sandra''s gaze dropped to the table. She sniffled and wiped her face with her cuffed hands. "What''s the point, Mom? Even if I change... my life is over."

    "No, Sandra. Your life isn''t over," ire said, leaning closer. Her voice softened but held a note of steel. "You pleaded guilty, and tomorrow, we will find out the duration of your sentence. If you show good behavior, you could get out early."

    Sandra let out a shaky breath and looked up at her mother. "And then what? What''s waiting for me out there?"

    ire smiled through her tears. "And then, Sandra, you''ll earn your ce back in our lives. And I will be waiting for you out there.

    You''ll show everyone the wonderful woman I know you can be.

    You''ll show yourself."

    Sandra hesitated, her lips trembling. "I don''t think so. I don''t think I have it in me to be good. Evelyn... Evelyn told me about my father,"

    she said quietly. "And about Derek''s biological parents."

    ire nodded slowly. "You are not your father, Sandra. Your father was responsible for his choices, and you are responsible for your choices, too. And even if his evil blood runs through your veins, my good blood runs through your veins, too." She reached out again, her fingers brushing against Sandra''s hands. "And goodwill always ovee evil. Always. But only if you let it. Let the good in you show, Sandra. Let it shine. Let go of everything else."

    Tears welled up in Sandra''s eyes again, but there was something else there this time- the faintest glimmer of determination. "And Dad?" Sandra asked without meeting her mother''s eyes.

    She knew just how disappointed her stepfather must be, and she wouldn''t me him if he didn''t want to set eyes on her again.

    "He will be waiting, too. He wanted toe see you, but I asked him to let me meet you alone..."

    "Isn''t he mad?" Sandra asked, looking up at her mother.

    "He is disappointed, but like me, he''s hoping you change. We will be waiting to get our daughter back," ire said, and Sandra nodded slowly, her lips pressing into a thin line as she fought back another wave of tears.

    "I won''t disappoint you again, Mom. I promise," she said quietly.

    ire smiled, her heart aching but full of love. "I hope so, my dear.

    I truly do."

    "What about Michael?" Sandra asked hesitantly.

    "He was sentenced to five years imprisonment for embezzlement,"

    ire said, and Sandra sighed sadly.

    She had thought a lot about Michael, and she knew that she owed him an apology for ruining his life. She was responsible for everything.

    "Tell everyone that I''m sorry," she said, and ire nodded.

    "I have to leave now. We have some shopping to do for Evie''s wedding," ire said, wanting to see Sandra''s reaction and be sure that she had changed Thankfully, Sandra''s expression didn''t change. "Wil. will youe to the court tomorrow?" "Yes. We all will be there," ire assured her since they had missed the first hearing because she had been in the hospital.

    "Will you visit me in here?" Sandra asked, and ire nodded.

    "Every chance I get," ire promised. "And I''ll wait for you.

    Patiently. I''ll be here when youe home."

    As ire walked outside after they were done, she let out a soft sigh. No matter how pitiful Sandra''s state was, she would rather see her behind bars than let her continue on the path she had been headed.

    For now she would focus on Evelyn and her grandchildren while she waited patiently for Sandra to do her time ande back home.

    The following day, the courtroom buzzed with low murmurs as people filled the wooden benches.

    ire sat with Eric by her side, her hands sped tightly in herp.

    Evelyn was next to her, her hands entwined with Derek''s. Rayna and Ethan were seated behind them.

    They all watched as Sandra was led in by two guards, dressed in a in gray jumpsuit, her wrists shackled.

    She kept her head down, avoiding the stares of the onlookers.

    ire''s heart twisted at the sight of her daughter, whose head hung really low, but she sat tall, determined to be strong for Sandra. The judge entered, and the room fell silent. "All rise," the bailiff called, and everyone stood until the judge took her seat.

    "This court is now in session"" the

    judge dered. "We are here to determine the sentencing of Sandra Quinn, who has been convicted of three counts of attempted murder. Two charges of first-degree

    attempted murder and a

    nove

    second-degree attempted murder."

    Sandra was instructed to stand. Her face was pale, and her eyes were red-rimmed from the tears she had shed all night in her cell.

    ire watched her daughter closely, willing her to stay strong. She wished she could shield her daughter from the weight of her choices, but this was Sandra''s burden to bear.

    They all listened with bated breath as the prosecutor and defense attorney gave their final arguments and statements.

    "While we do not excuse her actions, Your Honor, we ask for leniency, acknowledging her remorse and willingness to change,"

    the defense attorney concluded.

    The judge listened carefully, her face unreadable. Then, it was Sandra''s turn to speak.

    Sandra stepped forward, her

    shackles clinking. She raised her head, her voice trembling but clear. "I am so sorry for what I did. I hurt everyone, and I almost destroyed my family. I can''t take back what i''ve done, but I promise to spend every day making amends."

    ire wiped a tear from her cheek, pride swelling in her chest despite the ache.

    The judge leaned forward, her expression stern but not unkind.

    "Sandra Quinn, your actions were deliberate and caused significant harm. You endangered lives and betrayed the trust of those closest to you. However, I acknowledge your remorse and your plea for a chance to change." Sandra held her breath, her fingers gripping the edges of the table.

    "It is, therefore, the judgment of this court that you shall bemitted to the custody of the Department of Corrections for 20 years to life. You shall receive credit for time served and shall be eligible for parole after fifteen years for good behavior. The court further orders you to undergo counseling and treatment as directed by the probation? department. Let this serve as a reminder of the gravity of your actions and as an opportunity for you to rebuild your life."

    The gavel struck, and the sound echoed through the courtroom. Sandra''s knees buckled slightly, but the guard held her steady.

    ire stood, her hands over her mouth as tears spilled down her face. Eric and Evelyn cedforting hands on her shoulder.

    Sandra was led out of the courtroom, her steps slow, her head turning briefly to meet her mother''s gaze. ire mouthed, "I love you," and Sandra nodded, her lips trembling as her gaze shifted to Evelyn.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered, and tears dropped from Evelyn''s eyes as she acknowledged her apology with a nod.

    Sandra might have been terrible to her, but she was still her sister and Evelyn''s heart felt heavy at the thought of Sandra being locked away for so many years.

 Chapter 221

    The sun peeked through a cloudless sky, painting the city in hues of gold. The scent of fresh blooms filled the air, mingling with the sound of cheerful chatter as the morning came alive. Evelyn stood in front of the full-length mirror in the penthouse suite of Stone Pce Hotel-- the same room where she and Derek''s love story had begun-staring at her reflection in the mirror. Her wedding gown was a dream-a cascade of soft blush satin with silkyce adorning the bodice and sleeves. The gown flowed gracefully to the ground, its soft fabric catching the light as she moved

    As she turned, theyers of tulle and silk gently swayed, revealing a subtle glint that sparkled like the stars in the evening sky. The blush hue of the dressplemented her glowingplexion, adding a romantic touch to her overall look.

    A diamond tiara and a bouquet of white lilies and blush rosespleted her enchanting appearance. At that moment, she truly looked like a vision of love and beauty, ready to embark on her new journey. Samantha stood by her side in a matching flower girl dress, her eyes wide with excitement as she clutched a basket of flower petals.

    "Mommy, you look like a fairytale princess!" Samantha eximed, spinning in her own dress.

    Evelynughed softly, crouching to her daughter''s level. "Thanks, baby. But you are the princess here," she said, adjusting Samantha''s flower crown. "Are you ready to be the best flower girl ever?" Samantha nodded with excitement, twirling around.

    Rayna and Maya entered the room with a wide smile on their faces. While Rayna was elegantly dressed in her maid of honor gown-a mauve gown, Maya was dressed in a softvender gown. "Ready, bride-to-be?" Maya asked, her eyes shining with happiness.

    In the weeks following Derek''s proposal, Maya had bonded well with Evelyn, Rayna, and all the others, and now she didn''t feel as out of ce as she had initially felt.

    "As ready as I''ll ever be""" Evelyn replied, her voice steady despite the fluttering butterflies in her stomach.

    "Even if you aren''t, you will be fine. Derek has been ready to marry you since the day you met," Rayna said, and Evelynughed softly.

    "Evie, it''s time!" ire called from the doorway.

    Evelyn took a deep breath, her heart racing. "Okay, let''s do this."This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

    "You''ve got this, Rayna said, squeezing Evelyn''s hand.

    Meanwhile, in the presidential suite, Derek was nked on both sides by Ethan and Liam, all of whom were dressed in sharp suits.

    Like Maya, Liam had also spent some time bonding with the guys over sports and drinks, and now he could say he had friends in Ludus.

    Ethan, whose casts had been taken off, adjusted Derek''s tie.

    "Nervous?" He asked with a smirk.

    "Not at all" Derek said confidently, though the slight tremor in his hands as he fastened his cufflinks gave him away.

    "Your hands are shaking," Liam pointed out with augh, and Ethan joined in.

    Derek scowled at him, "If you were marrying Evelyn, your whole body would shake, too. But you wouldn''t know because she friend-zoned you," Derek said, and Ethan chuckled while Liam red at Derek. "How many times do I have to tell you that I wasn''t friend-zoned?

    Do you think you would have stood a chance had I asked her out while we were in Hu?" Liam asked, and Derek snorted.

    "Yeah, right," Derek said, and Ethan chuckled, enjoying the exchange that he had be ustomed to. "Besides, I believe this happened because I was meant to be with Maya, not her," Liam added defensively.

    "Yeah. Whatever makes you sleep well at night," Derek drawled to Liams annoyance.

    "If you two are done bickering, we have a wedding to attend," Ethan said before their argument could continue.

    Derek took a deep breath as he adjusted his tie once again. Then they walked out of the suite and headed for the hotel''s garden, where the wedding was being held.

    The ceremony was held in a sprawling garden, its paths lined with flowers in full bloom. White chairs adorned with ribbons formed neat rows, and a floral arch stood at the end of the aisle. Guests chatted in soft murmurs, the air thick with anticipation.

    As the music started, Samantha walked down the aisle first, scattering rose petals with glee. The crowd cooed at her, and she grinned brightly as she looked at her father, who was standing by the floral arch ahead.

    ire sat in the front row, wiping happy tears from her eyes, while Derek''s parents, who were seated close to her, beamed with joy as they gazed at Samantha with pride.

    Then came Rayna and Maya, both of them walking slowly, their gaze locked on their men who were smiling at them from behind Derek.

    Finally, Evelyn appeared with her father by her side. A hush fell over the crowd as they took her in.

    God! She looked like a dream! Derek thought as he watched her.

    He could hear his pulse pounding as she approached, and his heart was overwhelmed with love for her.

    Evelyn could feel his eyes on her. She looked in his direction, and her breath caught in her throat as their eyes met.

    God! How could one man look so handsome? She mused as she made her way down the aisle to meet him.

    Everyone else disappeared until they could only see each other, awed by the miracle of their love.

    When Evelyn reached Derek, her father kissed her cheek and ced her hand in Derek''s. "Take care of her," he said softly, his voice thick with emotion.

    "I will," Derek promised, his voice steady, but he didn''t break his gaze away from Evelyn.

    The officiant''s voice was warm as he led them through the vows.

    Derek spoke first, his voice rich with emotion. "Evelyn, you''ve brought light and love into my life in ways I never imagined. I promise to love you, protect you, provide for you, support you, and grow with you every day of our lives." Evelyn smiled through her tears as she responded. "Derek, you''re my safe ce and my greatest adventure. I promise to stand by your side through every high and low with all the love in my heart.

    And I promise to give you a kiss every day even when you''ve grown toothless," she said, and everyoneughed.

    Even as they exchanged their vows, they kept their eyes locked on each other, "I love you forever," they concluded in unison.

    Derek took Evelyn''s hand when they exchanged rings, sliding the band onto her finger. "With this ring, I bind my heart to yours forever," he said, his voice unwavering.

    Evelyn did the same, her hands trembling slightly. "With this ring, I promise you my forever," she whispered.

    "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride," the officiant said.

    Derek didn''t wait. He leaned in and kissed Evelyn deeply, the crowd erupting into apuse and cheers.

    Samantha raised both hands to cover her eyes. "They''re so mushy!" she whispered loudly to her grandparents, making everyone chuckle softly.

    The reception was a lively affair, held in thergest hall of the hotel. The morous setting felt like stepping into a fairytale.

    The hall was bathed in warm, golden

    light from cascading chandeliers that sparkled like a thousand tiny stars. Tables draped in ivory linen. were adorned with elegant centerpieces of blush roses, white hydrangeas, and crystal ents. The air was filled with the soft melody of a string quartet, mingling with theughter and chatter of guests.

    The dance floor gleamed underfoot, polished to perfection, while a raised dais held a grand table reserved for the newlyweds and their closest family. Behind it, a lush floral wall with the words

    "Evelyn & Derek" scripted in shimmering gold served as the perfect backdrop for photos.

    Servers in crisp uniforms moved gracefully, carrying trays of champagne and hors d''oeuvres. A sweet, tantalizing aroma wafted from the dessert table,den with an array of treats, including a towering wedding cake adorned with edible flowers. Evelyn and Derek entered the reception hand in hand, their smiles radiant. The crowd erupted in cheers and apuse, rising to their feet to wee the couple. Samantha, sitting with her

    grandparents, enthusiastically threw thest of her petals into the air, her excitement lighting up the room.

    The newlyweds made their way to the dance floor for their first dance. The music softened, and the spotlight followed them as they swayed to a love bad.

    Evelyn''s gown glittered with every movement, and Derek''s hand on her waist was steady and protective.

    They moved in perfect sync, their eyes locked on each other. Their love was evident, drawing sighs and smiles from the crowd.

    When the dance ended, Derek''s father stood up to give the toast.

    He exuded warmth as he tapped his ss for attention. The room quieted, all eyes on him.

    "I could stand here and list the

    countless reasons why today is one of the happiest days of my life," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "But the most important reason is that I see my son, Derek, standing here with the woman who has not only brought out the best in him but has also be a cherished part of our family."

    He turned to Evelyn, his gaze soft. "Evelyn, you are a gem. From the moment Derek met you, he told us he had found someone special, after I met my princess, Samantha, and then you, I confirmed it for

    and

    myself. Thank you for loving Derek and for making him the happiest man in this room. Well, apart from me," he added, grinning at his wife,

    andughter rippled through the hall.

    "To Derek and Evelyn," he continued, raising his ss, "May your lives be filled with love,ughter, and endless adventures. And may all your ups and downs be between the sheets," he said, causing everyone tough again, and Evelyn blushed as sheughed.

    "Here''s to a beautiful beginning and a lifetime of joy. Cheers!" The guests echoed the sentiment, raising their sses in unison before taking a sip.

    The evening unfolded with moreughter, dancing, and heartfelt moments. Samantha made it her mission to ensure every child guest had a piece of cake, herughter filling the space.

    Evelyn''s bouquet toss was a highlight. As she stood on the dais, her friends and the singledies in the hall gathered behind her, eager to catch the bouquet.

    Rayna smiled mischievously as she pushed her way to the front, determined to catch the bouquet.

    Evelyn turned her back to the group, closing her eyes. "Ready?" she called out teasingly, and with a yful toss, the bouquet soared through the air.

    Rayna reached up to grab it, her eyes gleaming with triumph, but just as her fingers brushed the flowers, a voice called her name.

    "Rayna."

    She turned to see Ethan kneeling in the middle of the crowd, a small velvet box in his hand. Gasps echoed around them, and Rayna froze, the bouquet forgotten as it tumbled to the floor.

    "Ethan?" she whispered, her eyes wide.

    "I figured I don''t have to wait to propose to you. We can be

    engaged while you make up your mind," Ethan said, his voice full of emotion. "Rayna, you are my golden sun. For weeks now, you''ve been my best friend, my lover, my nurse, my rock, my partner, and my everything. I need you in my life, Rayna. Will you do me the honor of being my wife?"

    Tears filled Rayna''s eyes as she nodded, too surprised to speak.

    The crowd erupted in cheers as Ethan slipped the ring onto her finger and pulled her into a tight embrace.

    Evelyn watched the scene unfold from the dais, her heart swelling with joy for her best friend. She turned to Derek, who was standing by her side now, his hand resting lightly on her back.

    "This is perfect," she murmured, happy to share her day with Rayna.

    "I don''t know about that. I only know that my wife is perfect," Derek said, leaning down to kiss her lips.

    And with that, their new chapter began.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 222

    [Three Months Later]

    The afternoon sun poured into the restaurant, casting a golden glow over the cozy booth where Evelyn, Rayna, and Maya sat.

    The three of them had grown even closer since after the wedding, and now, with the help of Derek''s parents, Maya had gotten into a prestigious university right there in Ludus and was studying Psychology. Every Friday afternoon, thedies hung out during lunch to take a break from their busy schedules and to catch up on each other''s lives.

    Evelyn adjusted the waistband of her maternity jeans, her blouse flowing loosely over her slightly rounded belly. She smiled as she patted her belly when she felt the subtle movements of the tiny life growing inside her. Seated across from Evelyn, Rayna and Maya exchanged a look when they noticed how well Evelyn was eating now, unlike the other times they had met. They also didn''t miss the smile on her face as she patted her abdomen.

    Their meals forgotten, Rayna leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So, tell us, mama-to-be," Rayna said, a teasing grin on her face. "How is it going this week? You are glowing today."

    "Yeah. I noticed, too. Are you feeling better now?" Maya asked before Evelyn could respond.

    Evelyn''s smile widened. "Oh, I feel so much better," Evelyn said with a relievedugh. "The first trimester and early second trimester were a nightmare. I couldn''t even keep anything down.

    Poor Derek had to deal with me crying over toast at least twice.

    But over the past two days, it''s like a switch flipped. I have energy again, and food no longer feels like my enemy."

    Raynaughed. "Crying over toast? I need that story."

    Evelyn rolled her eyes, chuckling. "It was earlier this week when I woke up in the middle of the night starving but couldn''t stomach anything. Derek made me toast, and I started bawling because it smelled ''too crispy.'' He just stood there holding the te, looking so confused. I think he was even scared to breathe wrong."

    "Too crispy?" Maya asked,ughing out loud.

    "Don''t even ask me what that means, but trust me, it''s a thing," Evelyn said, and Rayna snorted, covering her mouth.

    "Poor Derek. He''s a trooper," Rayna said, shaking her head with an amused smile.

    "Oh, he is""" Evelyn agreed, her voice softening. "He''s been so amazing. I don''t know what I''d do without him."

    "Well, you did well once before on your own with Sam," Maya pointed out logically, and theyughed

    "And now I can''t imagine doing so well on my own without Derek.

    Besides, I never said I did so well when I was pregnant the first time. It was terrible doing it alone," Evelyn admitted.

    Rayna reached across the table to squeeze Evelyn''s hand. "Well, that''s in the past. What matters now is that you''re glowing, Evie.

    Pregnancy suits you."

    "Thanks, Ray," Evelyn said, her cheeks tinged with color. She took a sip of her water and then tilted her head toward Maya. "What about you? How''s college treating you?"

    Maya groaned dramatically, but her eyes sparkled with amusement. "It''s...interesting. I''m loving the sses, but some of these kids make me feel ancient. I mean, they''re 18 and out here acting like they''ve conquered the world."

    Raynaughed. "Ancient? Please, you''re what, 29?"

    "Still ancient to them," Maya said with a smirk. "Some of them try to flirt with me..."

    Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "Flirting? From teenagers?"

    "Oh, yeah. You have no idea the manner of audacity these Gen Zs have," Maya said, rolling her eyes, "I suppose my petite stature keeps making them think I''m a teenager or something. So, when they find out I''m older, they begin to treat me like I''m ancient. The other day, this kid tried to exin how email works to me. Can you believe it? Like I haven''t been using email since he was in elementary school or even in diapers. And don''t even get me started on the flirting. This one kid told me how he prefers older women like me. I didn''t know whether tough or call his mom."

    Evelyn and Rayna burst intoughter, "Please tell me you said something savage," Rayna said, nearly spilling her drink.

    "I simply told him I liked men who are older than me and walked away," Maya said with a shrug, grinning.

    "You''re too good for them, Maya. Heaven knows I''d have said something really savage," Rayna said, and Maya shook her head.

    "Trust me, you don''t want to. Those kids would embarrass you.

    These Gen Zs are like from a different. They don''t care about your age, they have no filters in their mouth, and don''t get me started on their total disregard for punctuality," Maya said, making Evelyn and Raynaugh and shake their heads.

    "That doesn''t apply to all of them. I have some working for me, and they re pretty decent. I think these are misconceptions associated with the tag because of the bad eggs who act irresponsibly while iming they''re Gen Zs," Rayna corrected.

    "I really don''t get who tagged them

    Gen Zs and us millennials. I don''t even understand what the tags mean and don''t care about it, either. What care about, however, is your likeness for men who are older than you," Evelyn said, a sly smile creeping onto her face.

    "How are things with Liam?"

    Maya''s cheeks turned pink, but she smiled. "Better than I expected. We''re still figuring things out."

    Rayna leaned forward, grinning. "Details, please."

    "Well," Maya said, twirling a strand of hair around her finger.

    "Because of school and his job, we barely spend enough time together, but we have a date tonight. Nothing fancy, just dinner and a movie. And I''m spending the night. It will be the first time I''m sleeping over at his ce. And I''m looking forward to it." Evelyn and Rayna exchanged a knowing look, their smiles widening. "I guess things are progressing really well" Evelyn said to Maya before turning fully to Rayan.

    "What about you? How''s everything with you and Ethan?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna sighed, her yful smile fading.

    "Honestly? Frustrating""" she said with a shake of her head.

    Evelyn and Maya exchanged a look before Evelyn asked, "Why?"

    "What''s wrong?" Maya asked at the same time.

    "It''s been three months since we got engaged and over two months since I moved back to my ce," Rayna said, crossing her arms. "And Ethan hasn''t brought up the wedding again. Not once. I thought I''d enjoy having my space back, but don''t even like my apartment anymore. I miss his ce. I miss him."

    Evelyn tried to hide her grin. "But you both meet often, and you visit him and sleep over, don''t you?"Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    "That''s not the same as living with

    him. I hate it when I have to leave after spending the weekend, and sometimes I wish he would ask me to stay over longer, but he''s always so cool when I leave," Raynained, and this time, both Maya and Evelynughed,

    "Well, what do you expect? You were the one who said things were moving too fast, and you didn''t want to give up your ce so soon," Evelyn reminded her.

    Rayna groaned, burying her face in her hands. "I know! But now it''s moving too slow, and I just want us to get married and be done with it."

    "Women," Maya murmured, her tone tinged with amusement as she shook her head.

    Evelyn chuckled, leaning back in her seat. "You''re impossible, Ray.

    Why don''t you give him a little hint, then? You know, nudge him in the right direction."

    Rayna lifted her head, frowning. "What kind of hint? Take him wedding gown shopping? Or wedding hall hunting?"

    Before Evelyn could answer, Maya spoke up. "Forget hints. Just talk to him directly the same way you did before. You told him you weren''t ready, right? So tell him you are now. Like an adult." "It''s as simple as that""" Evelyn said in agreement.

    Rayna pouted.

    "That''s embarrassing."

    Evelyn reached out to pat her hand. "I know you, Ray. I trust you.

    When you''re ready, we both know you''ll do the right thing."

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 Chapter 223

    Later that evening, Liam and Maya walked into the exclusive Golden Lotus restaurant for their date.

    A soft piano melody yed in the background as Liam pulled out Maya''s chair for her, her lips curved into a gentle smile as she sat down.

    "You didn''t have to pick such a fancy ce," Maya said, ncing around the elegant room. Her cheeks warmed as she caught sight of a sparkling chandelier hanging above them.

    "I wanted to," Liam said simply, taking his seat across from her.

    "You deserve only the best."Content held by N?velDrama.Org.

    Maya''s heart fluttered at his words, but she tried to hide it by reaching for her menu. She skimmed through the list of dishes, though she couldn''t focus. The way Liam''s eyes were fixed on her made it impossible to concentrate. "What do you think you''ll have?" he asked, his voice soft.

    "I''m still deciding"" she said, biting her lip. "Everything looks so good."

    Liam chuckled. "I''ll make it easy for you. The truffle pasta here is amazing, and the crispy prawn is a close second. Trust me."

    Maya nodded, closing her menu. "I''ll go with the pasta, then. You sound like you know your way around this ce," she observed, wondering how often he had visited the restaurant and with who.

    Liam chuckled, "My colleagues first told me about the ce. I liked the setting when I saw a picture of him and his wife on their anniversary date here. I''ve ordered their meal twice and been here once just to confirm it is suitable for my darling girlfriend," he admitted with a wink, leaning back in his chair, and Maya grinned.

    "You''re such a sweet talker," she said, rxing in her seat.

    "That''s because I have a sweet girlfriend," Liam said, making her giggle.

    As Liam watched her, his expression became serious, "I''m sorry we haven''t spent much time together in a while now. I''ve been so busytely," he said, and she waved it off.

    "I''m busy with school, too. Besides, your job is important, so I understand," she assured him.

    "Are you sure you understand?" Liam asked, and she nodded, understanding that he was worried because his other rtionship had not worked because of his busy schedule. "Of course I do"" she said, and a waiter joined them.

    The waiter took their orders and poured sparkling water into their sses before leaving to get their drinks.

    Maya sipped from her ss as Liam spoke about his day, sharing little stories that made herugh. In turn, she shared stories about school.

    The conversations continued after their food arrived. Halfway into their meal, Liam set down his fork and leaned forward slightly, his expression shifting to something more serious.

    "I spoke with your gynecologist today about you," he said, his voice gentle as he watched her closely.

    When they began dating, Maya said she wasn''tfortable with him being her gynecologist anymore, so he transferred her to one of his colleagues.

    Maya''s heart skipped a beat. She set down her fork and stared at him, her curiosity piqued. "What did he say?"

    Liam smiled, "Well, it is good news. We looked over your test results, and your condition isn''t as serious as we thought. The cysts are getting smaller on their own, so you won''t be needing surgery, after all."

    Maya froze for a moment, his words sinking in. Relief washed over her like a flood, and her lips parted in disbelief. "Wait... are you serious?"

    Liam nodded, his smile widening. "Completely serious. I told you before it wasn''t always critical. Now we know for sure."

    Maya let out a long breath, her shoulders rxing as she leaned back in her chair. "I''ve been so worried," she admitted. "It felt like this came out of nowhere just when everything was finally falling into ce. I thought... I thought it was going to ruin everything."

    "It didn''t," Liam said softly, reaching across the table to take her hand. His touch was warm and soothing. "You don''t have to worry about it anymore."

    A small smile tugged at Maya''s lips as she looked down at their joined hands. "I''m so relieved""" she whispered.

    Liam''s eyes sparkled as he spoke. "What if this all happened for a reason? What if you ended up at the hospital so that we could meet and be friends?" Mayaughed lightly, her cheeks pink. "You think the universe was pulling the strings?"

    "Maybe," Liam said with a shrug. "It makes sense, doesn''t it?"

    "Maybe it does" she agreed, her smile growing. "Because let''s be honest, if I hadn''t been in that hospital, we''d probably never have gotten this close." "Exactly," Liam said, his grin matching hers.

    Maya hesitated for a moment, then looked at him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Actually, I have a confession to make."

    Liam raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What''s that?"

    "I''ve always had a crush on you," she admitted with a shy smile.

    His eyes widened, and for a moment, he waspletely silent.

    "No way. That''s not true."

    "It is," she said,ughing at his expression.

    "Why didn''t you say anything?" he asked, leaning forward in disbelief.

    Maya raised an eyebrow, her tone yful. "How was I, a mere nanny, supposed to say anything to my employer''s very sessful

    Doctor friend? It wasn''t like you ever really looked in my direction."

    Liam winced, a hint of guilt flickering

    across his face. "Okay, fair enough. I get it. But I did say hello to you each timed visited, but you never said more than a word or two."

    She smiled, the memory of those days bringing a mix of amusement and nostalgia. "I guess I was too shy to talk to you."

    Liamughed, shaking his head. "Well, I guess that exins it. But you weren''t so shy when you came to the hospital, though."

    Maya shrugged, "I guess that''s because I was too surprised to see you there."

    Liam smiled, "I''m d you told me now. And I''m even more d you kissed me when you did. It brought me to my senses and made me see what was right in front of me." Maya tilted her head, a teasing grin on her lips. "And what exactly was in front of you?"

    "The most amazing woman in the world," Liam said without missing a beat.

    "Stop ttering me," she said with augh, her cheeks flushing red.

    "I mean it" he continued. "You''re incredible, Maya. I''m so proud of you for chasing your dreams. And want you to know that I''ll wait as long as it takes so we can settle down

    together."

    Maya''s heart swelled at his words, and she looked up at him with shining eyes. "Thank you, Liam. I''d love that very much"" she said, her voice full of warmth.

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 Chapter 224

    Thete afternoon sun shone warmly through Ethan''s kitchen as Rayna stood by the counter, chopping fresh parsley for the pasta sauce she was preparing.

    The sound of the knife against the cutting board filled the room, apanied by the soft bubbling of the tomato sauce simmering on the stove.

    She hummed a happy tune to herself, swaying slightly to the tune as she worked, wholly absorbed in her task.

    She had always known that she loved to cook, but cooking for Ethan gave her a sense of satisfaction that she had never known

    existed.

    She hoped she would be done with dinner before he returned from work at his family''spany. He had quit his job, as he said, and resumed at his family''spany two months ago.

    Suddenly, a firm pnded on her backside, making her yelp in surprise. She turned quickly, her cheeks flushed, only to see Ethan grinning mischievously.

    "Ethan!" she scolded, though she couldn''t help theughter bubbling up from her chest. "Do you have to do that every chance you get?"

    Ethan leaned casually against the counter, his arms crossed and his expression unapologetic. "Absolutely. You used me of doing it when I didn''t, so I''ve decided it''s my life''s mission to be a shameless pervert- for you, of course." Rayna rolled her eyes, though a smile tugged at her lips. "You should let go of the past."

    "Not when that past has you in it. I''m letting go of anything with you in it," he said with a wink as he kissed her.

    Rayna giggled, shaking her head as she turned back to her parsley.

    "Why didn''t I hear youe in?" Rayna asked with her back to him.

    "Because I didn''t want you to," Ethan said, inhaling the rich aroma of garlic and basil that filled the air and made his mouth water in anticipation. "What can I do?" He asked, looking around for any chore he could do. "You should go freshen up and rx..."

    "We can do that together when we are done," Ethan cut in, and she smiled.

    "Alright. You can help me clear the sink and keep mepany," she said, grateful that he wanted to wait for her.

    "Sure""" Ethan said, walking over to the sink to do as she requested.

    They worked in silence for a while, and when he was done clearing the sink, he settled on one of the stools by the ind. He propped his chin on his hand, watching her with a curious glint in his eyes. "So, how was your day? Did you have fun with Evelyn and Maya?"

    "It was nice," she replied, tossing the parsley into the sauce and stirring it. "We had lunch and caught up. It was really nice spending time with them."

    "I''m d you had a good time," Ethan said, his voice warm.

    Rayna smiled as she turned back to her sauce. Afortable silence settled between them for a moment, broken only by the asional sound of stirring and the clink of utensils.

    She contemted telling Ethan what had been on her mind all week. Her heart raced at the thought of bringing it up.

    How hard could it be to say I''m ready now''? she thought, biting her lip. But this wasn''t the right moment- shed wait until dinner.

    "So, how''s work going?" she asked, turning the focus to him. "You and Melvin managing to keep things civil at the shipyard?"

    Ethan grinned, his eyes lighting up at

    the question. "It''s going well, actually. Mnd I have our

    moments, but we''ve been handling things pretty smoothly. We just finished up the specs on this custom yacht for a tech

    billionaire-it''s going to be in

    spent half the day-" He stopped abruptly, a sheepish smile creeping onto his face. "Wait. I''m rambling. Sorry, I don''t want to bore you."

    I

    ??

    "Bore me?" Rayna turned her hands on her hips. "Babe, I love seeing you this passionate about something. was worked you wouldn''t enjoy it and was scared you might have regrets about quitting your job, but so far, you seem to be fitting in just fine."

    Ethan''s smile widened, his shoulders rxing. "Fitting in wasn''t the issue," he said. "Shipbuilding is in my blood. It''s stressful, sure, but I love it."

    "I''m d you do," she said as she returned to the stove.

    "And just so you know, even if I

    couldn''t fit in wouldn''t regret quitting my job to be with you. I''d just keep trying my hand at everything until I find something else I love to do that wouldn''t keep me away from you," he said as he went to stand beside her.

    Rayna''s heart warmed at his words, and she sighed with contentment as he kissed her nape. Moments like this reminded her why she loved him so deeply.

    After Rayna finished preparing dinner, they both went in to freshen up together before sitting down to eat.

    Halfway into their meal, Rayna decided that it was time to tell him what she wanted, "So..."

    "How." Ethan said at the same time, and they both paused and thenughed.

    "You go first. So what?" Ethan asked, gesturing at her.

    "No, you first. How what?" she insisted, her cheeks warming.

    Ethanughed, leaning back in his chair. "Okay, how about we both say it at the same time?"

    Rayna nodded. "Deal."

    They counted down together. "One, two, three-"

    "I''m ready to get married."

    "How much longer do you want before we get married?"

    Their words hung in the air for a moment before they both burst intoughter, realizing that Rayna had answered Ethan''s question.

    "Are you serious right now?" Ethan asked, his grin widening.

    "Dead serious," Rayna replied, her cheeks flushing.

    "What about your apartment? Do you think you can let it go now?" He asked, and she nodded.

    "The only ce I want to be is by your side. I want to sleep and wake up next to you. You''re my home," she said, and Ethan reached across the table to take her hand, his eyes soft and full of affection. "I''ve been wanting to ask you for weeks" he admitted. "But I didn''t want you to feel rushed since I promised you could take your time."N?velDrama.Org (C) content.

    "And I''ve been wanting to talk about it for a while now," Rayna said, her voice soft. "But I didn''t want to seem like I didn''t know what I wanted."

    Ethan squeezed her hand, his smile filled with warmth. "Well, I''m d you brought it up now because you just made me the happiest man alive. Let''s do it, sugar. Let''s start nning our wedding." Rayna smiled, her heart swelling with joy. "I can''t wait," she said happily, her gaze locked with his.

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 Chapter 225

    Four monthster, Evelyn was seated in a grand hall as she watched Samantha and E walk down the aisle ahead of Rayna, decorating her path with flowers.

    The grand hall was a vision of elegance, its high ceilings adorned with cascading floral arrangements and chandeliers that sparkled like a thousand stars. Rows of elegantly dressed guests filled the space, their murmurs of excitement creating a melody that mingled with the soft strains of the string quartet ying in the corner.

    Seated at the same table with Evelyn were her parents, Derek''s parents, and Liam, whose gaze was fixed on Maya, who stood poised in front of the hall as Rayna''s maid of honor, dressed in a peach-colored gown flowing gracefully around her.

    Evelyn sighed softly as she ced her hands on her well-rounded belly. She was nearly nine months pregnant, and her bump was impossible to miss beneath the flowing dress she wore. She was due any day now, and her glowing face was tinged with weariness. All morning, she had been having a mild case of running stomach, and even now, she felt like going to the toilet.

    She was d that she had turned down Rayna''s request to be maid of honor; otherwise, how could she have managed it?

    Rayna had wanted Evelyn to be her maid of honor despite her pregnancy, but Evelyn had been unable to work up the energy for it.

    Thest thing she wanted was to keep dozing off in front of the guests or, worse, to keep going to thedies'' room to empty her dder every couple of minutes.

    Evelyn smiled as her gaze met Derek, who stood tall and handsome behind Ethan at the front of the hall as his best man.

    Ethan stood tall and proud in a sharp ck tuxedo, his face a mixture of nerves and joy. Beside him, Derek adjusted his tie, a teasing grin on his lips as he whispered something that made Ethan chuckle, easing the tension.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.

    Evelyn rose along with everyone, and every head turned as Rayna appeared, arm in arm with her father. She was radiant in herce wedding gown, the fabric hugging her frame before flowing out into a delicate train. Her veil framed her glowing face, and her eyes were fixed on Ethan as though no one else existed in the room.

    For most of the ceremony, Liam''s gaze didn''t leave Maya, whose eyes shone with happiness as she stood behind Rayna, holding Rayna''s bouquet during the ceremony.

    The ceremony was heartfelt and moving. Vows were exchanged, promises made, and Derek, dapper in his tailored suit, grinned at Ethan as he handed over the rings. He stood tall as Ethan''s best man, a role he performed with pride and an asional teasingment. When the officiant dered them husband and wife, Ethan kissed Rayna with a passion that made the crowd cheer and p loudly.

    As the newlyweds descended the aisle, Evelyn dabbed her eyes with a tissue. "That was beautiful," she whispered to her mom, who smiled in agreement.

    The reception began shortly after, with the hall now filled with music,ughter, and the clinking of sses.

    As the party progressed, Liam watched with concern as Evelyn shifted ufortably in her chair. He had noticed her difort all morning, and he didn''t miss that she was bing increasingly restless.

    "You doing okay?" Liam asked concern etched on his face.

    Evelyn offered him a tight smile, though her difort was clear.

    "I''m fine," she said. "Just can''t wait to be free from this."

    Liam chuckled softly. "Well, you let me know if anything changes.

    We will get you to the hospital in no time."

    Derek''s Mom chimed in with warm encouragement, and ire gave her a reassuring squeeze on the hand.

    Evelyn smiled, "I don''t think it''s going to be anytime soon," she said confidently and turned to Samantha.

    "Mommy, I''m thirsty," Samantha said, and just as Evelyn reached into her handbag for Samantha''s water bottle, a sharp gasp escaped her lips, and her hand flew to her stomach.

    "Mommy?" Samantha called with wide eyes.

    "I think-" Evelyn stopped, her face pale as her water broke in a sudden rush.

    Warmth pooled beneath her, and she froze, her hand flying to her mother''s arm.

    "My water just broke," she said, her voice tinged with both shock and panic.

    Liam shot to his feet, his years as an OB/GYN instantly taking over. "It''s time, he said firmly. "We need to get her to the hospital."

    Liam''s head whipped around, his expression transforming from calm toser-focused in an instant. "Alright, Evelyn, stay calm," he said, standing and moving to her side. "We need to get you to the hospital

    Chaos erupted around the table as Evelyn''s parents and Derek''s parents jumped into action. Derek, who had just started a toast at the head table, paused mid-sentence as he noticed themotion. His eyes found Evelyn''s, and in an instant, he passed the microphone to Maya and hurried across the room.

    "What''s going on?" he asked, his gaze fixed onbor.

    "My water broke""" Evelyn said as she reached out to Derek to hold her, and immediately, he helped her to her feet.

    "What''s happening?" Rayna whispered to Maya, her eyes filled with worry as she started to rise.

    Maya gently took Rayna''s arm. "No, you stay. They can handle it.

    It''s your wedding day. Enjoy the party," she said firmly.

    "But-" Rayna hesitated, looking between Maya and Ethan.

    Ethan gave her a soft smile, "It''s okay, babe. If you want to leave, we can, Ethan said, watching with a torn expression as Derek carried Evelyn out with their parents behind them while Liam hurried ahead to get the car. Rayna looked hesitant but then nodded. "Okay. We will stay for now and go after the first dance. Let''s wrap things up here quickly, and then we can go."

    Outside, Evelyn''s contractions wereing fast now, each one gripping her with a ferocity that made her cry out.

    "It seems you''ve been having contractions all day. The contraction interval is so close now," Liam observed as he got behind the wheels of his car while Derek and Evelyn got into the backseat and ire got into the front seat. Evelyn''s Dad joined Derek''s parents in their car with Samantha since Eric was too anxious to drive.

    Evelyn clutched Derek''s hand tightly; her face contorted with pain as contractions hit her like waves. "It''s happening so fast," she panted, her voice trembling. "Derek, it hurts so much"" she whimpered.

    "You''re doing great, sweetheart. We''ll get you there soon," Derek assured her, though his own nerves were evident in the way his free hand tapped restlessly against his leg.

    Sitting in the driver''s seat, Liam nced back in the rearview mirror. "We''re five minutes out. Just keep breathing, Evelyn."

    "Forget breathing!" Evelyn snapped, her voice sharp with pain. "I feel like it''sing now!"

    Another contraction hit, and Evelyn''s head fell back against the seat. "I can feel the babying," she gasped, her voice rising in panic.

    Derek''s eyes widened, and he looked at Liam. "Can she hold on?"

    Liam hesitated. "If she''s crowning, we''ll have to pull over."

    Evelyn let out a low cry as another contraction gripped her. "I''m telling you, it''sing now!"

    Derek nced at Liam, his jaw tight. "Well? Can you do it?" He asked, forgetting in his worry that he didn''t want Liam or any other male to attend to Evelyn. "With my eyes closed," Liam replied with confidence.

    "Can you just hurry?" Evelyn yelled impatiently, ring at Derek for wasting their time asking Liam such a stupid question when he was obviously an OB/GYN.

    ire, seated in the front passenger seat, turned around. "Her maternity bag is in the trunk."

    Liam nodded, shifting gears as he pulled the car to the side of the road. Derek''s parents joined them, and while Reba got out of the car to join them, the men stayed back inside with Samantha.

    The women moved into action, gathering supplies and making sure Evelyn was asfortable as possible in the cramped space of the car.

    Evelyn screamed as another contraction hit, her grip on Derek''s hand so tight it turned his knuckles white. "I can''t do this," she sobbed, tears streaming down her face.

    "Yes, you can"" Liam said firmly, his voice steady and reassuring.

    "You''re strong, Evelyn. We did this before; we are going to do it again. Just focus on your breathing and push when I tell you to."

    Within moments, the car became a

    makeshift delivery room. Liam

    crouched in the back seat, his hands steady as Evelyn pushed with all her strength. Derek stayed on the other side, wiping her forehead and

    murmuring encouragement through

    her cries.

    The next few moments were a blur of pain and effort. Evelyn pushed, her cries filling the air, and Liam guided the baby into the world with practiced ease. "Almost there," Liam said, his voice calm. "One more push, Evelyn.

    You''ve got this."

    With a final, guttural scream, Evelyn delivered the baby. A loud, healthy cry filled the car, and Liam held up a tiny, squirming boy.

    "It''s a boy!" Liam announced, carefully swaddling the tiny newborn.

    But before anyone could fully celebrate, Evelyn gasped again, her body tensing when another contraction seized her. Her eyes widened in shock. "I think there''s another one"" she said weakly, her voice trembling. "What?!" Derek eximed, his hand gripping hers tighter.

    Liam''s eyes widened, but he quicklyposed himself as he handed the first to ire, who was standing behind him. "Alright, Evelyn, one more time. Push."

    Liam worked quickly, guiding Evelyn through the delivery of her second baby. With a final, exhausted cry, Evelyn delivered a second baby- a girl.

    "You''ve got twins!" Liam said, his face breaking into a relieved smile as he held the second baby up for them to see.

    The car erupted in joyousughter and tears as the babies'' cries filled the air.

    While the mothers quickly cleaned up the babies, Liam wrapped up the delivery process with Evelyn, taking care of the centa.

    "Now we need to get you and the babies to the hospital," Liam said as they handed the babies to Evelyn.

    Evelyn''s exhausted face lit up with joy as she cradled both babies in her arms. Tears streamed down her cheeks, and Derek''s own eyes filled with emotion as he wrapped his arms around Evelyn and looked down at their kids. "They''re perfect," Derek whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he looked down at the babies while Liam drove them to the hospital.

    Evelyn looked at her newborns, her exhaustion overshadowed by the overwhelming love flooding her heart. "Twins" she murmured, her voice filled with wonder.

    Not once had the scan showed that she was carrying two babies.

    A short whileter, they arrived at the hospital. After Evelyn and the babies had been checked and cleaned properly, the others were allowed to see them. Samantha''s excitement was unmatched. "I''m a big sister to both a brother and a sister!" She dered proudly, squealing with joy at the sight of her new siblings. "Yes, you are," ire said, smiling happily at the baby boy while Reba held the baby girl.

    Eric went to Evelyn and kissed her forehead. "How are you feeling, darling?" he asked softly, not bothering to check on the twins until he was sure Evelyn was fine. Evelyn smiled, "I''m fine," she assured him.

    Just then, the door opened, and Rayna, Maya, and Ethan hurried into the room, all still dressed in their outfits from the wedding.

    "Do you need me to get you anything?" He asked, and she shook her head.

    "All I need is right here," she said with a soft smile as she looked around the room at everyone.

    "You didn''t have toe now! I can''t believe you came here in your wedding gown," Evelyn said with a giggle as Rayna almost tripped over her dress in haste. "Those adorable babies are the only reason I''m forgiving you for cutting short my wedding," Rayna said, smiling at Evelyn as Ethan pped Derek''s back, congratting him. "It''s what you deserve. My babies were paying you back for stealing the spotlight from me at my wedding with your proposal," Evelyn said, and they allughed. "Liam, you should have proposed to Maya today so that we could have our baby at your wedding in a couple of months, too," Ethan said, and they allughed. "We are not in a hurry," Liam said, winking at Maya, who was standing beside him as they admired the babies. She grinned at him.

    "Wait! What does that mean?" Evelyn asked, and Rayna giggled, seeing that only Evelyn caught it.

    "It means that we are catching up," she said with a wink, rubbing a hand over her abdomen.

    Everyoneughed as they happily congratted Rayna and Ethan.

    After everyone else left so that

    Evelyn could rest and Derek was left alone with Evelyn and their babies he held Evelyn close, tears

    .n

    streaming down his face. "You''ve given me everything, Eve," he said, his voice breaking.

    Evelyn smiled up at him, her hand brushing his cheek. "We did it all together," she whispered, "And in case you missed it, Liam did it again, she said with a grin. Derekughed through his tears, holding Evelyn close. "Thank you," he murmured. "Thank you for giving me this family."

    Evelyn smiled up at him, her

    ?t

    exhaustion overshadowed by pure happiness. "No, Derek. Thank you. Thank you for saving me that day and foring into my life. Now more than ever, I''m thankful for all that happened to bring us together," she said, and Derek smiled.

    "I love you, Eve. Forever."

    "Forever," Evelyn echoed, their bond stronger than ever.

    The End,

    Special thanks to all who stayed with Derek and Evelyn until the end and didn''t get bored with their story.

    I love you forever.

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