Chapter 244

Dominic strolled over with an easy grin, eyeing the two women curiously. "What's this secret conversation happening during a hug?"

Gabrielle finally released Evelyn, turning to flash Dominic a practiced smile.

"Nathaniel, I was just thanking Evelyn for fixing my ankle. Got a little carried away with gratitude, I suppose!"

Her gaze flicked back to Evelyn, feigning concern. "I didn't startle you, did I?"

"Not at all."

Evelyn's expression remained unreadable. She brushed invisible lint off her shoulder where Gabrielle had touched her, as if wiping away something distasteful.

Dominic's eyes sparkled with amusement as he studied Evelyn. "Didn't expect my new sister-in-law to have such impressive skills. Who taught you?"

Gabrielle's jaw tightened at the affectionate term. She cut in before Evelyn could respond.

"Evelyn must've learned early, growing up in the countryside. Kids there mature fast—unlike us city girls who were pampered."

Her words dripped with false humility, thinly veiling the jab at Evelyn's background.

Evelyn caught the insult but merely smirked.

Dominic's playful demeanor hardened. "Since you're healed, Gabrielle, no need for the ambulance." He pulled out his phone and tossed it to her. "First number in the log is the doctor I contacted. Explain your miraculous recovery yourself."

Gabrielle fumbled with the phone, forcing a laugh. "Right, of course. Wouldn't want to waste medical resources."

Dominic didn't spare her another glance. His attention shifted back to Evelyn, admiration gleaming in his eyes.

He nudged her shoulder playfully. "Confession—I've got an old wrist injury that never fully healed. Since we're practically family now, how about fixing me up too?"

The gesture was brotherly, devoid of any inappropriate undertones.

Evelyn arched a brow, eyeing his arm on her shoulder. "You really want my help?"

Dominic caught the warning in her sharp gaze and immediately withdrew, chuckling. "Okay, okay! I surrender. Just don't make me regret asking."

"Smart move," Evelyn deadpanned.

Dominic clicked his tongue. "Careful, or I'll tell Nathaniel to drag you home and—" He paused dramatically. "—spank some manners into you."

Evelyn's cheeks flushed at the implication.

Dominic grinned, thoroughly enjoying her reaction.