Chapter 31

The morning of her first day arrived with an unrelenting downpour. Evelyn stood by the window, watching raindrops race down the glass like tears.

Grace had left before dawn—another silent retreat.

Evelyn dressed in crisp black slacks and a tailored white blouse, her fingers lingering on the stethoscope in her bag. It had been years since she’d worked in a hospital. The thought of stepping back into that world sent a ripple of unease through her.

Her phone buzzed again—a message from Natalie, her closest friend.

First day jitters?

Evelyn smirked. More like first day regrets.

Natalie replied instantly. You’ll be fine. Just don’t let the egos get to you.

Evelyn pocketed her phone. Easier said than done.

The hospital loomed ahead, its glass façade reflecting the stormy sky. She took a deep breath and stepped inside.

The receptionist barely glanced up. "Name?"

"Dr. Evelyn Hartley."

The woman’s eyes snapped to hers. Recognition flashed. "Oh. You’re the new cardiac surgeon."

Evelyn arched a brow. "Problem?"

The receptionist hesitated. "No, it’s just… people have been talking."

Evelyn’s stomach tightened. Of course they have.

Before she could respond, a familiar voice cut in.

"Ah, Dr. Hartley. Right on time."

Sebastian stood there, smiling like a man who knew too much.

Evelyn forced a polite nod. "Deputy Director."

His grin widened. "Come. There’s someone you should meet."

She followed, already dreading what—or who—waited for her.

Evelyn ended the call and stepped out of her room. Despite Grace's offer to cook, Evelyn insisted on preparing lunch herself, keeping her mother out of the kitchen.

As they sat down to eat, Grace smiled warmly. "It's been ages since I've tasted your cooking, Evelyn. You haven't lost your touch."

"Then have some more," Evelyn replied, her lips curving slightly.

Grace took another bite before her expression turned thoughtful. She studied Evelyn carefully. "So, you've officially recognized Marcus and Olivia as your godparents, haven't you?"

"That's right," Evelyn answered casually, though her fingers tightened slightly around her fork.

Grace pressed on. "I heard the Caldwell family recently acquired land for a luxury resort project?"

Evelyn's gaze sharpened. "Mom, where is this going?"

Grace gave her a knowing smile. "Well, the Caldwells are looking for investors. Maybe our family could be part of it?"

Evelyn's expression remained unreadable. "I don’t interfere with the Caldwells' business."

Grace sighed. "I’m not asking you to interfere. Just mention it to Marcus. He’d consider your opinion."

Evelyn let out a dry laugh. "Did Dad put you up to this? Is this his idea?"

Grace hesitated. "Well—"

Evelyn cut her off. "Tell him I won’t bring it up to Mr. Caldwell. If he’s serious about this partnership, he should approach them directly instead of using me as a middleman."

Grace’s smile faltered. "Evelyn, you—"

Evelyn interrupted again, her voice firm. "Mom, let’s drop this, please."

Then, softer, she added, "Can we just enjoy our meal?"

Grace opened her mouth but ultimately stayed silent.

After lunch, as Evelyn loaded the dishwasher, her phone buzzed.

It was Leonard.

"Hello, Leonard," she answered.

"Evelyn, do you have a minute?" he asked.

"Just finished lunch. What’s going on?"

Leonard exhaled heavily. "Would you mind bringing some homemade food to Nathan at his office?"

He continued before she could respond. "You don’t know how bad it’s been these past three years. Since you left, no one’s made sure he eats. He forgets meals when he’s working, and his stomach’s gotten worse. I’d really appreciate it if you could help me out this once."