Chapter 255

"In this world, two things can never be controlled. One is time, and the other is a person's heart. If someone's heart no longer belongs to you, no matter how hard you try to win them over, it will never be yours again. So why waste your energy on something so pointless? It's better to focus on your own life, improve yourself, and be the one who holds the power."

Sophia Bennett was taken aback, her confusion quickly replaced by admiration. "Aunt Evelyn, that's so profound! I want to learn from you! Forget about men—just focus on your career!"

Evelyn Whitmore pinched her brow, worried Sophia might misunderstand. She clarified patiently, "That's not exactly what I meant. Love is beautiful—it enriches your life. But never lose yourself in it. Never sacrifice your future just to please a man. Understand?"

Sophia nodded eagerly, her eyes shining. "Yes, I do! Thank you for the advice, Aunt Evelyn!"

Evelyn wasn't sure if Sophia truly grasped her words, so she stopped there, lowering her gaze to sip her coffee.

What do I even know? I've never been in a serious relationship. I was just rambling based on instinct.

Sophia, though—she's impressionable. I hope my words make her think twice before falling for sweet talk.

Suddenly, her phone rang.

Evelyn pulled it out and saw Nathaniel Grayson's new number.

Of course—he was the one who gave her this phone and SIM card, then went and got himself a new number.

She answered. His deep voice filled the line. "Where are you?"

Evelyn took a slow sip of coffee. "At the downtown mall, Mister."

"With who?"

"Sophia."

"Give me the exact location. I'll send someone to pick you up."

Evelyn blinked. "Mister, are you back from your trip?"

"Just landed."

"No need to send anyone. Sophia drove—she'll take me home."

Nathaniel paused for two seconds. "Then both of you come to Silver Moon Estate after shopping. I have something to discuss."

Silver Moon Estate? Was he throwing himself a birthday party?

The thought of facing his relatives again made Evelyn frown. "Do I have to—"

"Yes." He cut her off sharply, as if he'd anticipated her resistance. "You're coming. I want to see you."

Evelyn fell silent.

Her pulse skipped.

Did Nathaniel just say he wanted to see her?

Since when did this composed, controlled man sound so urgent?

She remembered his words before his trip—that they'd have a serious talk about their relationship when he returned.

What did he want to discuss? What about their relationship needed clarification?

His behavior was strange. Was he planning to—

Sophia suddenly leaned into the phone. "Don't worry, Uncle! I'll bring Evelyn to you!"

As soon as Evelyn hung up, Sophia was already buzzing with excitement.

"Now that we've got the gift, you need a new outfit too, Aunt Evelyn! When he gets back, you two will be more lovey-dovey than newlyweds—you have to look stunning!"

Evelyn stared at her. More lovey-dovey than newlyweds?

Then she noticed the camera in Sophia's hands. "Why are you carrying that?"

Sophia grinned, adjusting the professional lens. "For my vlog! I'm documenting my daily life for VeeTube!"

Evelyn's lips twitched. "You need that for a vlog?"

"Better quality!"

Sophia had planned this. She wanted to capture the moment Nathaniel confessed—both as a keepsake and potential blackmail material.

Hah!

Unable to refuse Sophia's enthusiasm, Evelyn tried on a cream-white dress. The sales assistant styled her hair with a delicate diamond pin.

Sophia aimed the camera, eyes wide. "Evelyn, you look gorgeous!"

Evelyn felt overdressed and reached to remove it, but Sophia stopped her.

After paying, Sophia practically dragged Evelyn out of the mall and into the car, speeding toward Silver Moon Estate.