Chapter 40

At the mention of Dylan, Evelyn arched an eyebrow in curiosity. “What’s this about, Mr. Reeves?” she asked, cutting straight to the point.

“I was hoping to have the pleasure of your company for dinner, Ms. Hartley,” Dylan replied smoothly, his voice warm.

A knowing smile curled on Evelyn’s lips. “That sounds delightful. I happen to be free tonight.”

“Then it’s settled,” Dylan said, his tone brightening. “I’ll send you the details of the restaurant shortly.”

“Looking forward to it,” Evelyn responded before ending the call.

As she set her phone down, a calculating gleam flickered in her eyes. She intended to use her position as the Hartley family’s goddaughter to pry some answers out of Dylan—answers that had been kept from her for far too long.

Just as she was about to slip her phone into her bag, it buzzed again. The caller ID made her pause. She answered swiftly. “Hello?”

A soft, melodic voice floated through the line. “Evelyn, it’s been days since you returned. Three years without a word, and now you’re avoiding me? Are we really going to act like strangers, even though we’re sisters?” It was Lila.

Evelyn’s lips thinned, her expression unreadable. “I’ve been busy,” she replied coolly.

“I get that,” Lila said, undeterred. “But we should meet. How about lunch today? It’s time we caught up.”

Evelyn hesitated for only a second. “Fine.”

“Perfect! Let’s meet at Happer Restaurant. You always loved their food,” Lila suggested brightly.

“I’ll be there.”

“Noon, then,” Lila said before hanging up.

Evelyn exhaled sharply, steeling herself. There were questions she needed answered, and she wasn’t leaving without them.

At Happer Restaurant, Evelyn stepped into the private dining room to find Lila already seated. The moment she entered, Lila sprang up with a dazzling smile and rushed toward her.

“Evelyn! You look absolutely stunning,” Lila gushed, her eyes sweeping over her sister with exaggerated admiration. “Almost makes me jealous. Come, sit!” She reached for Evelyn’s hand.

Evelyn jerked her hand away before Lila could touch her, ignoring the flicker of hurt in her sister’s eyes, and moved to the table. Lila’s smile faltered as she stared at her empty hand.

Regaining her composure, Lila followed and sat beside Evelyn, her expression a mix of confusion and wounded innocence. “Evelyn, why are you being so cold? What happened to us? We used to be so close.”

Evelyn nearly scoffed. Once, she had believed Lila was the only person in the world who truly cared for her.

Now, she knew better.