Chapter 296

"You're so handsome. I'm smitten. Let's try dating. Be my boyfriend... things like that."

"Each request is more outrageous than the last." Evelyn couldn't help but laugh.

"My greatest trait is acting on impulse."

Ethan grinned.

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Then keep dreaming."

He ignored her rejection, his smile unwavering. "First dream, then act."

"Success isn't guaranteed." She deliberately deflated him.

"No regrets in trying. Who knows? It might work."

Evelyn fell silent.

Ethan walked her to the stairwell. "Go on up."

"Thanks."

"Call me anytime. I'll come running."

"Mhm."

"You're humoring me again." He chuckled. "I know you're thinking: 'I'll agree now but won't actually reach out.'"

Her lips twitched.

"I know you're fiercely independent. But when you need help, remember me. Doesn't have to be your first thought. Just... remember."

Evelyn smiled faintly. "Okay."

"Go ahead."

He watched her ascend until her bedroom light flickered on before turning away.

——

Chloe had been recuperating at the Evans estate for over two weeks. The baby's condition stabilized.

With staff attending to her and Nathan absent, life was unexpectedly pleasant.

Post-morning sickness, she glowed, having gained five pounds.

In contrast, Margaret looked haggard.

Though her weight remained unchanged, dark circles shadowed her eyes. Severe hair loss and insomnia plagued her.

Chloe summoned her at all hours for whims. Repeated disruptions left Margaret jumpy, startling awake at night.

Meanwhile, Chloe shopped lavishly, slept soundly, and dined exquisitely.

Today, Margaret finally snapped. She abandoned Chloe at the mall and returned home.

Chloe stormed in later, smirking coldly.

"Abandoning your pregnant granddaughter-in-law? How maternal! What if something happened? Don't care about me or your great-grandchild?"

Margaret, barely rested, flared up.

"Security was everywhere! Mrs. Watson accompanied you! Quit the dramatics!"

"I tolerate you for the baby's sake. Don't overestimate your importance."

With that, she scoffed and ignored Chloe.

Chloe seethed silently.

Soon regaining composure, she ordered fruit before heading to the garden.

"Bring my sunscreen too."

Suddenly, the doorbell rang.