Chapter 356

The quarterly report of Château Blanc lay on the desk, its numbers glaringly impressive.

In just three months, revenue had more than doubled.

Evelyn Roland's slender fingers traced the figures on the report, a flicker of satisfaction in her eyes. Who could have predicted this turnaround when the winery was on the brink of bankruptcy?

"Ms. Roland, Ms. Valdemar is here," the secretary murmured.

Olivia Valdemar strode in on high heels, her face alight with unrestrained joy. She seized Evelyn's hands, studying her intently.

"Evelyn, you're nothing short of miraculous!" Olivia's voice trembled. "Not only did you save the winery, but—"

Her words caught in her throat.

Evelyn patted her hand gently and offered her a glass of water.

"Theodore can say 'Mama' now," Olivia finally managed, eyes glistening. "The doctors say his recovery is nothing short of a miracle."

Vincent Valdemar's teacup clattered onto the table.

"Theodore is better?" His voice was sharp before he cleared his throat, regaining composure. "I mean, that's wonderful news."

Olivia nodded with a smile. "All thanks to Evelyn. The little one keeps asking for 'Aunt Evelyn' every day."

She pulled a velvet box from her bag and slid it toward Evelyn.

The moment the lid lifted, sunlight danced across the surface of a rare pink diamond. Evelyn's pupils contracted—this was the very gem her third brother had once coveted but failed to obtain.

"This is too extravagant," Evelyn said, closing the box, her fingertips cooling.

Olivia clasped her hand. "Compared to Theodore's health, it's nothing."

As they exchanged polite refusals, Sebastian Valdemar interjected smoothly, "Accept it. It's the Valdemar family's gratitude."

Evelyn's gaze flickered to Vincent. He was staring into his tea, knuckles white with suppressed tension.

"Then I'll graciously accept," she said finally, her fingers brushing the diamond's surface.

Vincent suddenly stood. "Since we're all here, allow me to host a dinner for Ms. Roland." His smile didn't reach his eyes. "Consider it... a thank-you banquet."

Evelyn met his gaze with a faint smile. "You're too kind, Uncle Vincent."

The atmosphere in the private room grew subtly charged. Oblivious, Olivia chattered excitedly about restaurant options. Sebastian observed the exchange thoughtfully, fingers tapping the table.

"I know a newly opened private kitchen..." Vincent's voice carried a veiled probe.

Evelyn lifted her teacup. Through the rising steam, she caught a dark glint in Vincent's eyes behind his glasses.