Chapter 196

"Grandmother will only think we're deeply in love."

Evelyn Sullivan opened her mouth to protest, but Ethan Sullivan had already grasped her hand firmly, leading her inside.

In the living room, Mrs. Sullivan sat basking in sunlight on her rocking chair. The moment she spotted their intertwined fingers, her eyes brightened, wrinkles smoothing with delight.

"My dear Evelyn! Come, let me see—have you lost weight again?"

"Grandmother, I'm perfectly fine," Evelyn replied sweetly.

Mrs. Sullivan guided her to the sofa, patting her hand affectionately. "If work is too exhausting, just quit. Ethan earns enough to last you lifetimes. Stay home, have tea with me, go shopping—wouldn’t that be lovely?"

Evelyn nearly laughed. Who would’ve thought the once-formidable business matriarch now sounded like any ordinary grandmother urging her to become a lady of leisure?

"Grandmother, I’d go stir-crazy."

"Stubborn child..." Mrs. Sullivan sighed, handing her a teacup. "Try this. Adrian brought it from abroad."

The tea’s floral sweetness danced on Evelyn’s tongue. "This is exquisite!"

"Take it all." Mrs. Sullivan immediately summoned the housekeeper. "Mrs. Li, package the tea leaves for our young madam."

"Oh, Grandmother, that’s unnecessary—"

"Nonsense!" Mrs. Sullivan feigned sternness. "Just bring me those butterfly puffs next time."

Warmth flooded Evelyn’s chest. The humble bakery treats she’d gifted were treasured like jewels.

"I’ll inquire about the tea with Adrian," Ethan interjected.

Evelyn nodded gratefully. She’d been wondering how to contact her elusive cousin.

After dinner, Mrs. Sullivan saw them to the door, reluctance in every crease of her smile. "Visit your old grandmother often, dear!"

"Of course."

In the car, Ethan suddenly leaned close. "I’ve already sent someone about the tea."

Evelyn instinctively retreated. "Thank you."

"Just ‘thank you’?" His eyebrow arched, mischief glinting in his eyes.

"What else do you want?"

"Buy me dinner."

The simplicity startled her. "Alright. After my current project wraps up."

Back at her villa, Zoe Zade materialized behind her, curiosity radiating. "Ethan drove you home?"

"We visited Mrs. Sullivan."

Zoe frowned. "But you’re divorced."

"Keep it quiet for now." Evelyn sighed. "Her health can’t handle shocks."

Zoe hesitated, then simply embraced her. "Don’t push yourself too hard."