She Left She Thrived She’s Worth Billions novel Chapter 386

Dominic removed his hand and didn't answer.

Although he deliberately avoided looking at Evelyn's face, he could still see her tears from the corner of his eye.

Heavy drops fell from her eyes like shattered pearls, her weeping a picture of absolute heartbreak.

For a split second, a sharp ache seized Dominic's chest.

Even if he didn't love Evelyn anymore, she was still his adopted sister, the girl who had once been his untouchable first love.

Not to mention, they shared a daughter.

"Evelyn, I don't blame you..."

In the end, Dominic's tone softened.

Evelyn's red, tear-filled eyes lit up instantly.

"Then... since you've forgiven me, let me stay. Please?"

Ignoring his subtle evasion, she grabbed his hand and held on tight.

"Lila and I can't survive in the countryside. The conditions are terrible—the healthcare is nonexistent, and the schools... Even if it's just for Lila's education, please let us come back."

"No."

Dominic's rejection was swift and firm.

"Sending you away was my father's idea. He will never agree to let you stay in Averin."

Truthfully, Dominic didn't want her staying either.

Right now, whether it was to steal the formula or to actually remarry Melanie, he needed to get on Melanie's good side and earn her favor.

Having Evelyn around would only ruin his chances of rebuilding any affection with Melanie.

"Please..."

With a desperate sob, Evelyn collapsed at Dominic's feet.

"Have some pity on me. Don't drive me away... I don't need a title. I'll never ask to be your wife or have any official status again. I just want to keep Lila by your side... I love you, Dominic. Even if you don't want me, I still love you deeply. If you and Melanie ever remarry, I'll pack up and leave. I'll go as far away as possible..."

Evelyn's voice broke, choking on her own agonizing despair.

"Evelyn, why put yourself through this? The Hale family can't provide you with the extravagant lifestyle you're used to anymore. If you stay, people will just point fingers and gossip. Sending you to the countryside is for your own good..."

"But I'll miss you if I can't see you! Lila misses her dad too... I never cared about luxury. I can give up everything... All I want is you..."

She clung desperately to the fabric of his trousers. Dominic simply couldn't withstand seeing her acting so incredibly submissive.

"Fine, fine. You and Lila can stay. But... you can't tell my parents, and you absolutely cannot live at my house..."

"I'll find you another place to stay. Just remember, even if you stay, no one can know you're here."

Melanie couldn't help but recall Preston's words from the night before.

"What if I told you... this is a family heirloom, meant for my future wife?"

A messy tangle of emotions swirled in her chest. It would be an absolute lie to say she didn't feel the pressure.

Did keeping the necklace mean she was accepting his feelings?

But...

She still felt like Preston was shrouded in thick fog. Even now, she couldn't see what was hiding beneath it.

The more she thought about it, the more chaotic her mind became. Melanie finally put the necklace away, fixed her makeup, and headed out to work at the Royce Group.

Today was her first official day as the COO.

"Melanie!"

She had barely finished her onboarding paperwork when Dominic blocked her path.

He was in his usual sharp suit, but his smile and the way he looked at her were noticeably different—there was an obvious, desperate attempt to curry favor.

Melanie let out a silent scoff.

Dominic was now the Project Director at the Royce Group. Even if she complained to her father, it would be difficult to get him fired immediately.