Chapter 487

"Dr. Hartley," Clara began, her dark eyes shimmering with emotion. Her hands trembled slightly as she hesitated to reach out, uncertain of the proper etiquette.

Julian cleared his throat. "Clara insisted on seeing you for her follow-up appointment."

Before he could elaborate, Clara interjected, "Dr. Hartley, I can never thank you enough. You literally brought me back from death's door."

Evelyn's warm smile never faltered. "I only did what any doctor would, Clara. Please don't mention it."

"I feel absolutely dreadful about canceling our dinner plans last week," Clara confessed, wringing her hands. "Would you allow me to make it up to you with lunch today? My treat."

Evelyn automatically started to refuse, "That's really not necessary—"

"Please," Clara interrupted firmly, "this isn't just politeness. It would mean the world to me."

Trapped by the older woman's sincerity, Evelyn relented. "Alright then. This afternoon?"

Clara's entire face lit up like sunrise. "Perfect! We'll choose a nice place, and Julian can—"

"I drove myself today," Evelyn cut in gently. "Just text me the address. I'll meet you there."

"As you wish," Clara conceded gracefully.

At precisely noon, Evelyn pulled into the valet parking of La Belle Époque, the upscale French restaurant Clara had selected.

Throughout the meal, Clara maintained a firm grip on Evelyn's hand between courses, showering her with gratitude until Evelyn's cheeks burned with embarrassment.

Over seared scallops and truffle risotto, Evelyn learned several surprising facts. Clara wasn't Julian's biological relative but had been the Hawthorne family's housekeeper for decades. Having raised Julian since infancy, he regarded her as his true mother.

Their conversation flowed effortlessly. By dessert, they'd exchanged numbers and made tentative plans for a spa day.

It was then Julian casually remarked, "Dr. Hartley, I hear you've been quite active on the dating scene lately?"

Evelyn's fork froze mid-air. She swallowed hard before answering, "Ah... yes. Unfortunately."

Clara's eyes sparkled with sudden interest. "You're single, Evelyn? What are your thoughts on Julian here?"

Julian's expression remained carefully neutral, though his fingers tightened around his wine glass. He'd deliberately steered the conversation this direction, knowing Clara would seize the opportunity. His beloved nanny had been nagging him about settling down for years, and her obvious approval of Evelyn made this the perfect setup. Yet throughout lunch, Evelyn had barely glanced his way. Did he truly leave so little impression? The thought stung more than he cared to admit.

Evelyn nearly choked on her champagne. After an awkward pause, she forced a polite smile. "Clara, let's not joke about such things. These dates are just to appease my friends. Besides..." Her voice dropped. "My divorce was finalized barely three months ago. I'm not ready for anything serious."