Chapter 233
Evelyn paused for a moment, struggling to explain her delayed return. She couldn't possibly mention her secret visit to the private clinic to see Eleanor.
Keeping her expression neutral, Evelyn answered, "The roads were packed tonight. Maybe I should've taken the metro instead of hailing a cab."
"Taxis are safer," Julian insisted. "At least you get to sit down even in traffic. The subway's always overcrowded - who knows if you'd find a seat? What if someone bumped into you?"
His protective tone betrayed his knowledge - as the only family member aware of Evelyn's pregnancy.
Understanding his unspoken concern, Evelyn nodded. She knew she needed to be more careful in her condition.
Their eyes met in silent understanding across the dinner table.
After finishing their meal, Evelyn felt a warm contentment settle over her. These family moments had become precious to her.
With a baby coming, she imagined their home growing even livelier soon.
Once everything here was settled, she planned to return to Northridge City for the delivery and raise her child there.
Mid-conversation, Evelyn suddenly yawned. Lately, fatigue hit her without warning.
Noticing her exhaustion, Julian immediately stood. "It's getting late. We should all turn in."
His priority was making sure his pregnant sister got proper rest.
The six brothers left together, still needing to discuss Victoria-related matters they'd avoided mentioning earlier.
As the front door closed, quiet returned to the living room.
Margaret gently squeezed Evelyn's hand. "When the compensation comes, dear, you must save it properly."
"But Aunt Margaret, this is your money. I can't accept it. Besides, Uncle Benjamin needs funds for his-"
"Your brothers have covered Benjamin's medical bills for a decade, haven't they? Take this money - invest it wisely or put it in a fixed deposit."
Margaret sighed. "Honestly, I'm overwhelmed handling such an amount. My relatives already heard about the compensation - they keep calling, demanding family reunions."
Evelyn knew exactly what kind of people Margaret's relatives were.
When Benjamin had his accident years ago, they'd refused to help financially. Instead, they'd advised Margaret to sell the house and divorce him.
In short, they were vultures waiting to swoop in.
"Alright, I'll safeguard it for you. Whenever you need anything, just ask." Though accepting the money, Evelyn already planned to use it for Margaret's retirement.
Later in bed, Evelyn absentmindedly touched her abdomen. Was that the slightest swell she felt?
Her phone buzzed - Jonathan calling.
Remembering how she'd slipped away earlier, guilt prickled as she answered. "Jonathan? Just getting off work?"
"Yeah, we've been swamped all day. Just grabbed dinner."
"With the wedding tomorrow, there are a million last-minute details to confirm. Can't afford any delays," he explained.
Evelyn's guilt deepened. "I'm sorry I wasn't there to help today."
"Don't worry about it. Family comes first - we totally understand."
"By the way, word got around the office that you're becoming our resident millionaire with that neighborhood compensation."
"Don't forget to treat us all!" Jonathan teased lightly.
Evelyn laughed helplessly. "Of course."
"Oh, and Evelyn - now that your family's relocation is settled, you should come by tomorrow to check the engagement venue setup," Jonathan added.
Why would he want her there?
Evelyn didn't need to guess who'd put him up to this request. It had Victoria's fingerprints all over it - shamelessly demanding Evelyn's presence at her own wedding venue.
Did Victoria really think Evelyn had no say in these preparations?
"Evelyn? You will come, won't you?" Jonathan pressed.
After a brief hesitation, Evelyn replied, "Jonathan, I'm sure you've done a perfect job with the arrangements. Tomorrow I'll just be at the studio as scheduled."