Chapter 323

Dominic stepped forward, his polished shoes clicking against the hospital floor. "I'm his father, Donovan Blackwood."

The doctor adjusted his glasses, his expression grave. "Your son has a life-threatening allergy. You must monitor his diet meticulously to prevent accidental exposure. This is absolutely critical."

Evelyn had been right about the symptoms all along.

Though not medically trained, her experience with severe allergic reactions had proven invaluable.

Once assured that young Oliver was stable and transferred to a recovery room, Evelyn turned to leave.

"If everything's under control, I should be going."

"Wait." Donovan's commanding voice stopped her mid-step as he blocked her path. "You saved my son. Name your price."

Evelyn blinked in surprise.

"That's unnecessary. I just did what anyone would do. The real hero here is the medical team." She gestured toward the doctors, completely uninterested in any reward.

"You're refusing compensation?" His piercing gaze studied her. "Money? Connections? Whatever you need, I can make it happen."

"Evelyn," Serena whispered urgently, pulling her aside. "Donovan Blackwood practically owns Crestview. This is an opportunity most people would kill for."

Evelyn had already guessed as much. The way Donovan carried himself, the effortless authority in his voice - this was a man accustomed to power.

Yet she needed nothing from him.

His arrogant demeanor sparked mischief in her. "Mr. Blackwood, since you insist... Have you heard of the perfume 'Eternal Bloom'? Not money, not favors - just this one particular fragrance. Think you can manage that?"

"Eternal Bloom?" Donovan's eyebrows shot up, as if questioning his own hearing.

"Yes," Evelyn confirmed with a sweet smile. "Now if you'll excuse me, it's getting late."

She gave a polite nod and walked toward the elevators.

Serena hurried after her. "Evelyn, wait! I'm coming with you!"

There was no reason for Serena to stay now.

As the elevator doors closed, Serena huffed. "I can't believe Penelope's behavior! I actually felt sorry for her before, thinking she was just an unfortunate woman. Clearly, Donovan had good reason to leave her."

"They're separated?" Evelyn arched an eyebrow.

While she typically avoided gossip, their earlier interaction had been impossible to ignore.

"Technically never together. They had Oliver, but were never married. Penelope's been clinging to the relationship ever since." Serena shook her head. "I was actually considering helping her reconcile them. Now I see Donovan made the right choice!"

Evelyn remained silent. She'd met them only once - their personal drama wasn't her concern.