Chapter 439

Evelyn watched Alexander until his figure vanished from view. Only then did she step out of the car.

She noticed Donovan staring directly at her, as if he had been waiting.

Something felt off. Evelyn had already revealed herself, and the staff had surely sent word of her arrival. Yet, no servants greeted her when she exited the vehicle.

It was clear Donovan had orchestrated this—keeping others away. But she had nothing to hide now that she was back. Straightening her dress, she walked toward him.

"You finally returned," Donovan said, studying his cousin.

"I always keep my word," Evelyn replied, her tone firm.

He gave a slight nod. "Grandfather is waiting for you."

Having him lead the way was convenient. He had already cleared the path, sparing her unnecessary encounters.

"Thank you for the information you gave me before," she said, recalling the documents he had provided.

Donovan didn’t turn around. "No need. You never used it."

True, she had kept the evidence to herself rather than exposing everything.

As they walked, Evelyn realized the Hawthorne family had been watching her closely all along. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have known so much about her—or been able to gather such private details about Dominic.

"Still, I appreciate it," she said quietly.

They entered through a side building, traversing a long corridor before reaching the private residence at the back. The front was for guests; the rear was family-only, its atmosphere far more serene.

"Why didn’t you include that evidence when you revealed everything else?" Donovan asked as they walked. "Do you still care for him?"

Evelyn shook her head. "Never push someone into a corner. That’s what we were taught as children. Have you forgotten?"

Donovan smirked. "So you do remember."

Of course she did. It was ingrained in her—something she couldn’t forget even if she tried.

Upon entering the residence, Evelyn instinctively moved toward the stairs, only to see Donovan turn down the hall toward a first-floor room.

She hesitated. "Grandfather changed rooms?"

"He’s older now. Stairs are difficult for him," Donovan explained, pausing to glance back at her. "You’ve been gone too long."

Too long to even know this.

Evelyn stayed silent as Donovan added, "His health isn’t what it used to be. So don’t—" He cut himself off, then knocked lightly on the door. "Grandfather, it’s me."

A deep, aged voice rasped from inside. "Come in."

Evelyn had thought she could face him calmly. But as she stepped forward, her pulse betrayed her.