Chapter 110

Vanessa swayed her hips playfully. "Why won't you trust me?"

"If you don't like the arrangement, then don't go. I'm done discussing this." Dominic had no patience left for Vanessa's coquettish arguments. That was his final word.

Still, he wanted to attend the Silverpine Valley conference himself. Rumors suggested many industry experts would be present. Besides participating, Dominic planned to scout fresh talent for DR Holdings.

Evelyn's recent schemes had caused significant trouble for the company. Dominic understood the value of skilled perfumers now more than ever. He needed to strengthen his team to prevent future threats. The experience had been nothing short of disastrous.

Yet, the essential oil crisis demanded his full attention. He couldn't afford to leave while critical tests were underway. Every formula had to be flawless, and he refused to delegate that responsibility.

Still, sending Vanessa wouldn't hurt. It would be good experience for her, even if she lacked Evelyn's expertise. At least she was loyal—and now, with the baby, she was even more tied to him.

Dominic's gaze dropped to Vanessa's still-flat abdomen. A tiny life grew there, and the thought sent a rush of warmth through him.

Vanessa, however, wasn't as thrilled. She wanted freedom, not a babysitter trailing her every move. What would Lucien Dubois think if some watchdog shadowed them? It was ridiculous.

But for now, she'd play along. One step at a time.

Alexander Kensington didn’t escort Evelyn to the airport. She insisted on taking a cab alone, refusing even her usual driver. She didn’t want prying eyes noticing her departure.

Before leaving, she wrapped her arms around Alexander, sensing his simmering displeasure. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder," she teased lightly. "Don’t miss me too much—I’ll be back before you know it."

"Likewise," Alexander murmured, pulling her close before pinching her waist sharply.

"Ow!" Evelyn yelped, glaring at him. "You’re impossible."

With that, she slipped into the cab, leaving Alexander standing on the curb as the car disappeared down the driveway.

Harrison, silent as ever, finally spoke. "Sir, are you certain you don’t want to inform Mrs. Kensington that you’re attending as well?"

Alexander tilted his head, a slow smirk curving his lips. "Where’s the fun in that?"

Harrison hesitated. "I—well—"

Fun? Harrison had no idea just how mischievous his boss could be.

"Did you upgrade the seats?" Alexander asked, turning back toward the house.

"Yes, including Ms. Carter’s. As instructed, I informed them this trip was a crucial corporate engagement with special arrangements."

Harrison had handled it discreetly through Gregory Whitmore.

"Good." Alexander exhaled sharply, stepping inside. The house felt hollow without Evelyn. Too quiet. Too empty.

He hated it.