Chapter 394

Evelyn's lips curved into a warm smile when she caught his gaze.

Dominic was taken aback when she smiled at him. His tense expression softened as he studied her, and for the briefest moment, the ghost of a smile flickered across his face.

Then it was gone—so fleeting it might have been imagined.

Evelyn didn’t speak. Instead, she extended her hand toward him, palm up, fingers slightly curled in silent invitation.

He hesitated, staring at her outstretched hand before finally, cautiously, placing his small fingers into hers.

The moment his hand touched hers, Evelyn gently closed her fingers around his and beamed at him.

What happened next stunned her.

Oliver suddenly threw his arms around her, clinging tightly as if she were his lifeline.

Evelyn hadn’t expected this. She had only meant to comfort him, not provoke such an emotional reaction.

Holding him close, she stroked his back soothingly, sensing the distress radiating from his small frame.

Donovan watched the scene unfold, his eyes softening with something akin to relief.

Slowly, Oliver’s trembling subsided, and his grip on her loosened slightly.

Evelyn tried to stand while still holding him, but her legs wobbled—she had been sitting too long.

Donovan stepped forward, steadying her before carefully taking Oliver from her arms. "Thank you," he murmured.

With a gentle smile, Evelyn gave Oliver’s tiny hand a playful shake. "Just promise me one thing—no more arguing in front of him. It affects him more than you realize."

Donovan exhaled, nodding reluctantly. "I know." Then, almost wistfully, he added, "Oliver really likes you. If you’re not in a hurry to leave… maybe you could stay a few more days?"

Serena seized the opportunity, chiming in eagerly. "Evelyn, you have to consider it! My father’s team is incredible. The opportunities here are endless—your career would skyrocket!"

Donovan nodded in agreement. "She’s right. The industry here is thriving. With your talent in perfumery, you could achieve so much more. And if you ever need help, I’d be happy to assist."

Evelyn shook her head firmly. "No. My path is back home. I’ll carve out my own future, no matter where I am."

Her resolve was unshaken, but Oliver’s grip on her sleeve tightened, his eyes pleading.

"Miss Evelyn," he whispered, voice small and uncertain.

She softened, cupping his cheek. "If your father allows it, you can visit me someday. I’ll take you out for the best meal in town."

Oliver immediately turned to Donovan, waiting for confirmation.

Donovan’s lips quirked. "Definitely."