Ch. 431..440

Chapter 431 Safe Return is a Must

"Before I left, Ruby and Dylan were asking when they could see you," Eva murmured, nestled in his embrace. "Mhm."

Adrian Blackwood hummed in response before adding, "Them, I won't see just yet."

Lifting her head from his chest, she met his gaze, confusion in her eyes. "Why? You've come to see me. Why not stop by and see them too?"

Gazing down at her, Adrian Blackwood solemnly caught her gaze and pecked her reddened lips lightly. "We'll see them when I get back. By then... I hope they'll have a new way to address me, okay?"

Eva bit her lower lip, remaining silent.

"Still reluctant?" He affectionately nuzzled her forehead, his voice deep and husky. "After all this time kissing me, you're still not on board?"

Originally, he'd felt a stab of jealousy, thinking he had to contend with Michael Cooper for her affections.

But after that kiss, Adrian's jealousy had evaporated.

He could feel her response and reliance on him.

Now, all he had to do was sort out the matters at hand and then, back home, they could all start a life together-now a family of four.

Thinking ahead, Adrian's lips curled into a slight smile.

"When we get back, my folks will be coming over, too. Maybe they could spend some quality time with them first?"

Eva was speechless.

Seeing that she hadn't responded, Adrian Blackwood eased off a bit.

"Of course, if you'd rather not, we can pretend I never mentioned it. I won't bring it up to them," he offered, it was clear he knew what worried her. She was always afraid someone would try to take her child away, and he wouldn't do anything to stoke those fears if she wasn't in agreement.

Eva paused for a moment, taken aback by his quick surrender. Before she could even speak, he had already ceded the field, as if too afraid to upset her.

Such a reaction left Eva feeling bittersweet. There was a time when he wouldn't have been caught this low.

"Did I say anything?" she broke the silence.

"Hmm?"

"I haven't said a word, and you're already answering for me?"

Adrian Blackwood struggled with the tension of the topic, a stark contrast to his usual composure—whether in casual conversation or the intimate closeness of a kiss. It was as if he had become a completely different person. "I just didn't want to push you into something you're uncomfortable with," he said softly.

After a moment, he reconsidered her words and asked tentatively, "So, when you say that, do you mean you'll agree to let them meet first?"

Eva bit her lip. She really didn't want to agree; it almost felt like forgiveness.

But then, remembering that he would be staying behind to sort out his affairs, and they would not see each other for a long time, she thought that maybe agreeing wouldn't be so bad.

With this in mind, Eva slowly nodded.

"Meeting them is a possibility..." "Really?"

Despite the darkness around them, Eva could almost see a spark of brightness in Adrian's eyes, his mood visibly lifted.

"Yeah, just give me their contact details, and I'll reach out to them later," she suggested.

Adrian let out a low chuckle. "Sure, I'll have Jacob send you their information later."

The two seemed to settle on that, and for a while, silence enveloped them again.

Suddenly, the sound of hurried little footsteps approached.

"Hey, where did Mommy go?"

Jacob, having walked a good distance ahead with the two kids, turned around to find Eva hadn't followed. Panicking, he hurried back with the children, only to find her suitcase left unattended at the door. "This is Mom's suitcase, but where's Mommy?" the dilemma was spoken just outside the door, where Eva could overhear every word.

Eva hesitated for a second before looking up at Adrian Blackwood and whispered, "I should go, or else..."

She was interrupted as Adrian suddenly leaned in closer, her sentence hanging in the air.

Adrian Blackwood's warm breath cascaded across her face, his presence enveloping her, lips barely touching the corner of her mouth, his voice hoarse, "One more kiss." Before she could react to his words, he captured her lips once more.

"Mmm."

Eva had no time to push him away, her involuntary moan cut short as she realized someone outside the door might overhear. Panic-stricken, she quickly swallowed the sound. Hands fluttering to Adrian's chest, her eyes wide with anxiety.

He was so daring, to do this while the kids and Jacob could come looking at any moment...

Because the children were just outside, Eva didn't dare struggle too much, fearful that they'd hear the slightest noise and be mortified by the implication.

"Uncle Woody, where did Mommy go?"

Jacob, already on the alert and wondering if Eva's disappearance had something to do with Michael Cooper, suddenly noticed the closed door in front. An epiphany struck him, and he quickly said to the children, "Your mommy probably forgot to grab something and went back for it. Let's take the suitcases and wait for her outside."

Ruby Hansen, undeterred, asked, "What did Mommy go back for? Do we need to help her?"

"No need, she's just grabbing a thing. Helping her? Come on, let's wait outside."

Jacob, as if fearing the kids would change their minds, scooped them up and headed outside without waiting for a reply.

Inside, Eva was invariably mindful of every noise beyond the door, even while being kissed. It wasn't until the sounds outside faded that she finally exhaled in relief, her body no longer tense.

A pinch at her waist snapped Eva back to attention, her blush deepening at his accusatory gaze.

"You're always distracted," he complained.

Eva pushed him away, flustered, "I have to go."

The kisses had been enough, hadn't they? Two should suffice.

But the man before her, clutching her as if he couldn't bear to let go, held on with such force that Eva felt a pang in her bones.

"Stop, Ruby and Dylan are waiting for me."

Still, he remained silent for a long while before begrudgingly releasing her.

He then lightly pinched her cheek, "Go on."

With that, his hand slid under her arm, reaching for the doorknob behind her. He gave a gentle twist, and the lock clicked open.

"Go on, Jacob will take care of you."

"Okay..." she replied, her voice a whisper of reluctant departure.

When the door swung open and the hallway light spilled in, Eva finally saw Adrian Blackwood's handsome face clearly in the brightness.

It was then that she noticed the deep, bruise-like circles under Adrian's eyes, as if he hadn't rested well.

Her heart was an indescribable mix of emotions.

After taking a couple of steps towards the door, she suddenly spun around and hugged Adrian tightly around the neck.

"I'll wait for you back home. You have to come back safely-no more getting hurt, okay?"

 

 

Chapter 432 You Said Dad Was Gone

The flight back was emotionally different from the flight there, but neither could be considered pleasant.

The only thing she found comfort in was the fact that, on both journeys, her children were by her side.

After receiving Adrian Blackwood's message, Jacob had informed Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood about the children's situation just before boarding the plane.

Shocked and silent for some time, the Blackwoods had finally said, "We'll come back right away. What time is your flight? We'll pick you up at the airport."

When Jacob relayed this message to Eva, she felt a twinge of embarrassment. She hadn't seen them in a long time and wondered how she would reconnect with them after being away for five years.

Unaware of her tumultuous thoughts, Jacob could only guess at her feelings from her expression. Seeing that she didn't look too pleased, he cautiously offered, "Ms. Hansen, Mr. Blackwood indicated that if ever you feel uncomfortable or have any concerns, you can let me know at any time, and we can put a hold on this entire situation."

"Cancel it?" Eva asked, looking at Jacob with a mix of surprise and confusion.

Jacob nodded affirmatively. "Yes."

"But haven't you already told them?" she countered. It was one thing to cancel before making the arrangements, but now that it was all out in the open, cancellation would bring disappointment to all parties involved. "Yes," he admitted.

The dialogue was designed to flow naturally, mirroring the ways people in the United States communicate and react in similar situations, preserving authentic speech patterns and cultural nuances, while ensuring clarity and coherence for an American audience.

Jacob nodded. "But Mr. Blackwood insisted that everything should center around how Ms. Hansen feels. If this causes you any worry or discomfort, Ms. Hansen, we can stop at any time. The final say is entirely yours. And please don't fret about what follows; I'll handle everything."

To her surprise, his words were sincere.

With that thought, Eva's lips curved into a gentle smile. "There's no discomfort. It's just that the last time we met was five years ago. It's been so long, I hardly know how to face them or interact with them now."

Jacob was taken aback by her response. Overjoyed on behalf of his employer, Adrian Blackwood, he quickly reassured her, "Rest assured, Ms. Hansen, Mrs. Blackwood was very concerned about you and asked after you when I last spoke with her."

"Really?" The memory of her abrupt departure years ago surfaced; her grandmother had passed away after she left, and she never got to say goodbye.

She had thought she would never cross paths with that family again, yet, life had come full circle.

Eva decided it was time to clue in her two little ones, who were still in the dark. "Ruby, Dylan, after we land back home, someone will come to pick us up."

Predictably, the kids perked up at this. "Mommy, who's coming to get us?" they asked with wide-eyed curiosity.

"Well, to put it simply, your grandparents," Eva said carefully, choosing her words before revealing the titles to Ruby and Dylan.

"Grandma and Grandpa?"

"Yes."

Holding their hands gently, Eva whispered, "Haven't you always wished for Uncle Adrian to become your daddy?"

Ruby's eyes sparkled at the mention. "Mommy, did you agree to let Uncle Adrian be our daddy?"

Dylan, too, was surprised. Before boarding the plane, Mommy hadn't consented, yet something seemed to have changed mid-flight. Could something have happened that he didn't know about? Eva nodded affirmatively. "Yes, are you happy? You've always wanted him to be your daddy, haven't you?"

"Happy," Ruby chimed, her face lit up with joy. She reached out to hug her mother, but they were both strapped into their airplane seats, so she settled for holding her mother's hand tightly instead. "Mommy, does Uncle Adrian know yet?"

Did he know?

The corners of Eva's lips lifted in a tender smile as her eyes filled with warmth.

By the time he gets back to the States, he'll catch on, right?

"He'll figure it out later."

"What about Grandma and Grandpa, Mommy? Are they Uncle Adrian's parents?"

"Yes, darling, they are Uncle Adrian's folks. They're very kind and easy to get along with. Don't worry, they are..."

Eva hesitated for a second before finishing, "They are your real grandparents."

Ruby Hansen's eyes widened in shock.

"My real grandparents?"

"Mhm."

Eva gently stroked Ruby's head and then turned to Dylan Hansen. "Ruby, Dylan, do you understand what Mommy is telling you? Uncle Adrian is your biological father." Dylan nodded quickly, signaling he understood.

Ruby, however, took much longer to digest the information, her eyes widening as if she had just made the connection. "But Mommy, didn't you say before that... that Ruby and Dylan's daddy had passed away?" There was an awkward silence from Eva.

And from Jacob, who was eavesdropping nearby.

Well, this was awkward.

"What's going on?"

Eva felt a bit uncomfortable. If Jacob hadn't been there, it would have been easier; she could have explained it to the kids. But with Jacob listening in...

Nevertheless, how could she have known five years ago that she and Adrian Blackwood would get back together? That was something she could never have anticipated; she was just following her heart at the time. With that thought, Eva could only offer a slight smile, softly saying, "Well, he's... come back to life now."

Jacob's lips twitched on the side.

If he weren't worried about offending Eva, he'd want to exclaim, "Ms. Hansen, could this get any more far-fetched?"

Claiming the man was dead and now saying he had come back to life clearly baffled the little ones.

Seeing their stunned faces, Eva chuckled and lightly tapped both their noses. "I was just kidding, you two! Did you actually believe that?"

Ruby clutched her chest. "You scared me!"

"Listen up, guys, when we get off the plane, remember to be polite and say hello, alright?"

"We got it, Mommy," they chimed in unison, their behavior the picture of obedience. They also understood that Eva's change of topic meant she wasn't keen to revisit the previous conversation.

But Eva couldn't help recalling the past anyway when the kids were younger and didn't understand these complexities. As they began to mix with the neighbors and friends, inevitably, they started to grasp a bit more.

On a day like any other, when the two children returned home, they tugged at their mother's skirt and asked, "Mommy, Mommy, why do all the other kids have daddies, but we don't?"

At that moment, Eva was in a state of utter desolation. She had consigned herself to a lifetime without crossing paths with Adrian Blackwood ever again. Thus, when the kids posed the question, she responded bluntly, "Because he's dead." She knew it might frighten them, but to nip their curiosity in the bud, Eva decided to cut the matter short.

Little did she know that one day she would be eating her words.

What was said was said, and now it was her job to smooth it over.

 

Chapter 433 A Little Extra Compensation

After disembarking from the plane, Jacob was still bustling about, handling her luggage with care.

Eva only had to manage the two children. Likely because of the concern over her past kidnapping incident, she was now flanked by several towering bodyguards.

They provided a protective formation around her, ensuring a strong sense of security for her and the little ones. Anyone with the slightest thought of harming them wouldn't stand a chance. Jacob, wheeling the luggage, followed behind. As they approached the exit, he informed her, "Ms. Hansen, the Blackwoods are waiting nearby. You'll see them in just a moment." With his head's-up, Eva nodded in acknowledgment.

"Yeah."

She then leaned down and whispered to her two little ones, "Ruby, Dylan, did you hear that? We're about to meet Grandpa and Grandma. Do you remember what Mommy told you on the plane?" "We remember."

"Don't worry, Mommy, Ruby and her brother will be very polite," they promised her eagerly.

Escorted by their guardians, they quickly reached the exit.

At the airport's exit, Margaret pulled out her mirror and checked her reflection repeatedly, still not quite satisfied. She turned to inquire, "Dear, do you think my makeup is too much for meeting the children?"

Hearing her, Kim Blackwood cast a brief glance at her before replying, "Overdone? Kids love it like this."

Margaret was looking for a real opinion, yet his response made her feel like he was off the mark.

"What are you saying? What do you mean kids love this kind of makeup, as if you know what kids like." Kim Blackwood sighed in resignation.

"I might not know what kids like, but neither do you, so why worry?"

Kids have a different outlook on adults' beauty standards, probably can't tell if her makeup is glam or natural. They just know she's family, and that's enough.

What's she worried about?

There's really nothing to worry about.

With that thought, Margaret breathed a sigh of relief, her tension easing momentarily, but quickly her anxiety crept back. Pocketing her mirror, she turned to Kim Blackwood, "Can you believe Eva? That girl just blew my mind. Vanishes for five years, then turns up with two kids and not a word in between. It's unbelievable."

Kim Blackwood glanced at her. "What's on your mind?"

"What can I say? It's that no-good son of ours. He must've let Eva down, or why else would she be out there on her own with two little ones? My poor grandkids... All these years with no father, no grandparents. They must've felt so alone. When I see them, I swear, I'm going to shower them with all the love they've missed out on."

Tears welled in Margaret's eyes as she spoke.

Kim watched her theatrically dab at her tears, a teasing smile on his face, "Save the act for when you actually see them."

Margaret whirled around, affronted. "Act? This is genuine concern, you know. Don't you miss your grandkids? Doesn't your heart ache for them?"

Kim fell silent.

"I'm telling you, I'm going to settle things with that boy, and you better not get in my way this time."

"Have I ever stopped you? Ever since you joined the Blackwood family, haven't you always had the final say?"

Margaret pondered his point, pursed her lips, and dropped the subject.

Ever since Eva's divorce from Adrian Blackwood and her subsequent departure, Margaret had become less tolerant, especially since the passing of her mother-in-law.

Her leniency towards her son vanished. She had a hunch Eva's leaving had something to do with him. As a woman herself, she knew that if a married woman leaves, it's usually the man's fault.

Unless the woman has her own agenda, but Margaret had watched Eva grow up and knew her temperament all too well.

In Margaret's eyes, Eva would never do anything to harm the marriage, which left only one possibility: her son was at fault.

When her son made mistakes, Margaret knew she shared the blame; it was her failure to guide him properly.

After Eva left, for a long time, the mere thought of the incident would agitate Margaret. Frustrated, she would often find herself dialing Adrian Blackwood's number to give him a piece of her mind.

Back then, Adrian was in a foul state himself. Barely had Margaret started her rant when the line would go dead-her calls met with a click on the other end.

Call after call, hung up every time.

When Mrs. Blackwood learned of her son's frequent drinking, her heart ached for him. Yet, amidst her concern, she couldn't help but silently blame him.

"You deserve whatever mess you've made of yourself," she'd chastise internally. "Regrets are useless now."

"The bitterness is yours to bear," she'd think.

Outwardly stern, still, Margaret's heart went out to her son in private.

Years later, Margaret had gradually let go of her feelings about Eva. Resigned to the fact that Eva had vanished without a trace, not even showing up for Mr. Blackwood's funeral, it seemed clear she wanted nothing more to do with them. Having buried that hope, Margaret shifted her focus when she saw how steadfastly Vivian Morrison remained by Adrian's side. She suggested, perhaps her son could develop something with Vivian.

But her son was stubbornly loyal, unaffected by Vivian's proximity.

Moreover, recent events shifted Margaret's view of Vivian entirely.

She was appalled to discover this seemingly innocent girl had harbored such deep cunning from such a young age, silently stealing credit for years.

The Blackwood family had been misled about the identity of Adrian's lifesaver.

Furthermore, Vivian dared to use her fabricated 'debt of gratitude' as leverage to coerce Adrian into marriage.

Just the thought sent shivers down Margaret's spine.

Of course, the Blackwoods had encountered all manner of tricksters as they rose to prominence, but someone so young with such deep guile was a first for Margaret.

Reflecting on the fact that it was Eva, not Vivian, who they owed their lives to—and that she had since been raising two children by herself-Margaret felt an overwhelming pang of empathy. Her poor Eva, motherless since childhood, had endured so much hardship.

With these thoughts, Margaret quickly spoke up, "When I see them later, I'm not just going to treat my two darling grandchildren well, but I'm also going to make it up to Eva."

No sooner had the words left her lips than Margaret's eyes lit up. She waved her hand in a particular direction and strode eagerly towards the figure she had spotted. "Eva!"

 

 

Chapter 434 A Rift Arises

Even from a distance, Margaret could spot Eva with the two children.

A little boy and a little girl were by her side, their features strikingly similar - they were twins.

When Jacob had called her about this, she was astounded.

"Children? Adrian Blackwood and Eva's children?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"This... Eva has children with Adrian Blackwood? How old are they?"

Margaret was nearly moved to tears when Jacob informed her the twins were already five years old-a boy and a girl, no less.

Given Adrian Blackwood's reclusive nature, along with Eva's apparent disinterest in further contact, Margaret had resigned herself to the idea that Adrian might never settle down or give her the chance to embrace grandchildren. She had mentally prepared herself for this possibility.

Finally, she had convinced herself to let go: no grandchildren, so be it. It wasn't her place to worry about her son's family planning.

After all, if Adrian Blackwood wasn't fretting over it, why should she?

But the surprise had come swiftly. Just moments ago she fretted over not having grandchildren, and then suddenly, there were two! And from afar, she could see that the siblings had the charming looks of porcelain dolls, naturally attracting gazes on the street. Most importantly, they bore a striking resemblance to Adrian Blackwood.

Before leaving for the visit, the housemaid, having overheard her phone conversation, couldn't help but express concerns as Margaret was about to leave. "Ma'am, hasn't Ms. Hansen been gone for five years? How could there be children of our young master? Could there be some deceit? Is it even possible for the children to be our young master's?"

Margaret, who had yet to meet Eva and the children, bristled at the housemaids' speculation, reprimanding sharply, "The Blackwood family pays you to clean, not to gossip about its members."

The maid jumped at her fiery response, shrinking back, "I apologize, ma'am. I shouldn't have spoken out of turn. But... it's just that I was worried about the young master being deceived, that's all. There was no malice intended." Approaching their destination, Margaret couldn't help but squat down in anticipation.

From a distance, Eva caught sight of the Blackwood couple. Despite the years, Margaret was unchanged, still radiating beauty. She offered a smile from afar before crouching down and spreading her arms wide in a welcoming embrace. "Ruby, Dylan," Eva whispered gently, "meet Grandma and Grandpa."

The kids had been prepped for this meeting on the plane. Once Eva introduced them, they immediately called out cheerily, "Hi, Grandpa! Hi, Grandma!"

Despite the children's cautious glances reflecting their unfamiliarity, Margaret didn't mind.

"Oh, my," she murmured, her voice filled with excitement as she swept the children into her embrace.

Next to her, Kim Blackwood watched the scene unfold. Compared to Margaret, he had been rather composed, but now couldn't conceal his excitement, squatting down in front of the kids.

Eva stood by, chuckling at how the grandparents indulged in a volley of childlike curiosity: questions about names, ages, school, favorite foods, dislikes, and various habits.

Eventually, Eva couldn't help but interject, "Maybe... time to get up? Aren't your legs tired from squatting so long?"

Her comment brought them back to reality. Instead of complaining about any discomfort, they suggested, "Right, right, you've been traveling all day, must be exhausted. Let's get home, have the chef whip up something delicious, and then a warm bath and a good rest."

"Sounds good."

Eva was about to reach for the children's hands, but the Blackwood couple each swept up a child and started heading off.

That's... heartwarming," Eva thought, noticing their exceeding affection for the youngsters.

After all these years away, she'd feared Uncle Kim and Aunt Margaret might feel distant, but their warm reception dispelled those concerns.

"Ms. Hansen, shall we go too?" Jacob's voice called from behind, snapping Eva back to the present. She nodded, "Sure."

And together, they all followed in the Blackwood's steps.

 

Chapter 435 Moving to Chicago

Once back at home, Margaret's attentiveness toward her was unmistakable. She took Eva's hands, hesitating as if struggling to express her thoughts.

Forget about Margaret for a second-Eva herself was at a loss for words.

She didn't know how to begin, nor did she know what to call her.

Sure, the kids called them Grandpa and Grandma, but she just couldn't bring herself to call her "Mom."

After all... it had been five years.

Five years that number felt like an eternity.

Perhaps it was a look in her eyes or the expression on her face that gave her away, but Margaret seemed to understand what she was thinking. With a gentle touch, she tucked a strand of Eva's hair behind her ear, her voice soothing. "My dear, you've had it tough out there these past years."

That simple sentence made Eva's eyes well up with tears.

She had imagined all sorts of things Margaret might say, but never expected something that would hit her right in the feels-words so painfully sweet.

A torrent of grievances lay buried in her heart, unspoken.

This closeness, resembling family affection, was something she'd never felt before.

The mother figure she'd always dreamt of since childhood.

Seeing Eva's eyes glisten with tears, Margaret too felt a pang in her heart and tenderly pinched her cheek.

"Sweetheart, don't be sad. Now that you're back, everything will be okay. It was Adrian Blackwood who let you down, but from now on, I'll take good care of you." Mother?

Eva's vision was a blur, unable to make out Margaret's expression clearly, seeing only her compassionate gaze through her misty eyes.

Hearing her refer to herself as "mother" while addressing her, Eva was momentarily taken aback.

Was she calling herself "mother" to her?

Could she... continue to call her "mother" in the future?

Biting her lower lip, Eva murmured softly, "I thought... after five years, you might not be so willing to acknowledge me."

"Silly girl, how could that be? I've always adored you, and you know it. When you left, I blamed myself for not realizing and mending the rift in your marriage sooner. That was my failing."

"No," Eva shook her head, tears ready to spill from her eyes. And as she moved, they fell like pearlescent beads, glittering on her fair skin.

"It's not your fault. The problems were between Adrian and me. We had a misunderstanding. We just didn't manage to sort it out in time."

"It wasn't the two of you it was him," Margaret said with a bias toward Eva, "As a man, it was his duty to protect his wife. He failed to take care of you and safeguard the marriage, leaving his wife and children on their own for so long. He's the one at fault."

Eva was taken aback by how harshly Margaret spoke of him, pausing a moment before she could respond.

"Mother..."

"Hey," she mumbled, more to herself than anyone else.

Her response left Eva momentarily stunned. She hadn't anticipated blurting out such a word, nor had she expected Margaret's reaction.

"From now on, that's what you'll call me. Now that you're back, don't think about leaving again. If that rascal Adrian Blackwood ever gives you trouble, you come straight to me, and I'll set him straight. Or better yet, I'll show you how to handle him."

"Really?" Although tears had been streaming down Eva's cheeks earlier, the conversation lightened her spirits considerably. "Would you really take my side?"

"Of course, it's true. If you don't believe me, just wait until he gets back from abroad. I'll give him an earful."

The thought of Adrian still being overseas and injured at that caused Eva's smile to fade slightly.

"Alright, let's not dwell on all that now. You must be starved after flying all day. Dinner's almost ready in the kitchen. Let's not waste time thinking about anything else. Eat well tonight, and we can talk about anything else tomorrow." Dinner was a feast a spread full of familiar flavors, nothing like the food she had grown accustomed to abroad.

And the best part...

The taste of the dishes bore an unmistakable familiarity...

Raising her head to glance at Margaret Kim Blackwood, Eva, despite resolving some emotional issues, found herself uncertain and shy after the long time apart. She tentatively asked, "Mom, Dad, has our chef been with us all these years without change?"

Margaret gazed at her tenderly. "We've never changed chefs. After all these years with the Blackwood family, we're used to the way he cooks. Can you tell it's his cooking right away?" "Yes, it's very familiar," Eva replied.

Everything at home was as familiar as the cuisine the decor appeared unchanged, just as it had been five years prior.

The only real difference, perhaps, were the two little ones now seated at the table.

These youngsters were snugly placed between Kim and Margaret Blackwood, and after answering Eva's question, the couple returned their attention to feeding the little ones. "Here you go, Ruby, isn't this your favorite? Have a little more."

"Dylan, try this."

In essence, the entire dinner was managed without Eva needing to lift a finger for the children; she only needed to take care of herself.

After dinner, Margaret told Eva, "Your room, the one you used to share with Adrian Blackwood, is ready for you. The maids have kept it clean daily, and all the bedding has been freshly changed. You can head straight to bed." "Okay."

"Hey, there's something I'd like to talk to you about," Margaret said, a hint of hesitation in her eyes as she looked at Eva. She seemed unsure if she should even bring it up.

Sensing her mother's discomfort, Eva decided to gently prompt her, "Mom, what's on your mind?"

"Well, you've all had a long day, and I was thinking... maybe tonight, Ruby and Dylan could bunk in with us? Of course, that's only if it's okay with you. If it's not..."

Margaret's voice trembled apprehensively as she spoke, frequently glancing at Eva's expressions. The calm and collected demeanor she usually carried was gone, replaced with caution ever since the kids came into the picture. It was as if she was walking on eggshells, fearful of Eva's disagreement or anger.

Eva felt a wave of discomfort watching her mother like this. It pained her there was no wrongdoing, yet her presence evoked such carefulness.

Moved by these thoughts, Eva took a few steps closer and softly replied, "Mom, if you don't mind the possible disturbance, feel free to have them over."

"Oh, it wouldn't be a disturbance at all! I would love that. In fact, if you're okay with it, your father and I would be more than happy to spend more time with the kids. By the way, have they started school yet? Which school are they attending?" Eva briefly explained the situation in Chicago, anticipating that Margaret might find it convenient for the kids to transfer to a nearby school in New York.

To her surprise, the next second, Margaret declared without hesitation, "If the children are studying in Chicago, then we'll just move to Chicago tomorrow."

 

Chapter 436 Torn

Eva was utterly shocked to learn about the Blackwood family's potential relocation from New York to Chicago. She also felt an immense sense of respect from her mother's decision. But she couldn't help questioning, "Isn't the Blackwood family rooted in New York? Wouldn't moving to Chicago be a bit...?"

"Nonsense," Margaret cut in with a dismissive wave of her hand. "Your father and I are aging, and our only concern is you kids. Now with two more grandchildren, our priority is certainly you all. Besides, where we live doesn't make much of a difference to us. The climate in Chicago might even be better for us. Didn't you start a company there? If you ever have any doubts, just ask your father. He'll be there to guide you. Focus on your career, and don't worry about the kids. With your father and me around, we'll take good care of them."

With that, Margaret ended the conversation, her focus shifting towards getting the kids settled into their room and discussing the big move with Kim Blackwood.

As Eva made her way back to her room, she couldn't stop mulling over one thing: her company was just finding its feet, so how could it ever measure up to the Blackwood dynasty? But now, they seemed completely unconcerned about the size of her enterprise; they were even willing to come to her small business to help with childcare.

Could it be that the company didn't mean that much to them anymore?

With these thoughts swirling in her head, Eva quickly arrived at a familiar door. It was only when she paused that she realized her body still remembered the way, even after five years.

Pushing the door open, everything looked just as she remembered it.

She stepped in, transfixed by how little had changed over the years. The room's furnishings were almost identical to how she left them, except for the fresh linens on the bed. Everything else, from the drapes to the knick-knacks on the desk, remained untouched.

The wave of familiarity was so overwhelming, it felt as if she had stepped back in time five years. It was almost as if she and Adrian Blackwood had never divorced.

Without realizing it, Eva found herself beside the bed, her lips curving into a smile as she looked at the new bedding.

Her phone vibrated.

She pulled it out and saw a message from Adrian Blackwood: "Are you done with everything?"

She had already touched base with him after landing, but that was before her encounter with Kim Blackwood Margaret. She'd only sent a brief message then. Was he checking in because he figured she should be free by now?

"Yeah, pretty much done. Just got back to my room," she typed her reply. She had intended to take a shower but was interrupted by Adrian's message. After responding, a thought struck her, and she quickly sent another message, "How was your day?"

Not long after her message, a video call came through from Adrian Blackwood.

Eva hesitated, staring at her phone for a good long moment before answering the video call much slower than if it had been just a voice call. As soon as she accepted, Adrian's handsome face appeared on her screen. Even in the unforgiving clarity of the camera, his features and skin were impeccable.

At first, his expression was unreadable, but upon seeing her, the harshness in his eyes melted away, replaced by a softness that only she could provoke.

But Adrian Blackwood's gaze shifted abruptly as he caught sight of the figure behind her. "You home?"

Eva sensed his attention on the scene behind her and, inexplicably, felt a twinge of guilt.

Perhaps she didn't want him to know she had forgiven him so quickly.

And deep down, she struggled with an unwillingness to let go.

Though their relationship had been marred by misunderstandings, and he had indeed hurt her, she wanted to be with him but wasn't ready to forgive him so easily. Seeing her silent and downcast eyes,

Adrian's expression darkened, but he quickly recovered and changed the subject.

"Ruby and Dylan asleep?"

At the mention of a different topic, Eva lifted her gaze again, "I guess so, they've been with..."

She paused, and after a brief moment of confusion, Adrian picked up the thread.

"Ruby and Dylan, are they staying with their grandparents now?"

Eva nodded in confirmation.

"Yeah, the elders adore them."

Probably due to Eva's earlier silences and hesitant attempts to speak, the atmosphere had grown somewhat awkward. When the conversation dwindled, they both lapsed into a prolonged silence.

Eventually, Adrian pursed his lips, watched her through the phone's camera, and said softly, "Don't worry about David's situation. There's no update today, but I'm on top of it. I'll let you know immediately once there's news." Eva smiled at him.

"Okay."

Noticing she was wearing the same outfit as when she left earlier that day, Adrian asked, "Haven't freshened up yet?"

"Well, I was about to, but then your call came through."

"Did I interrupt you?"

"Not at all," Eva shook her head, "It's just a video call, delaying freshening up a bit doesn't matter."

She wasn't one to sleep early anyway, and even after a day of flying, she was tired but not too exhausted to have a video call.

Watching Eva onscreen, her face glowing healthily, Adrian could still spot a trace of fatigue in her eyes.

He considered the situation, then said, "Go freshen up, and try to get some sleep earlier tonight."

Caught off guard, Eva faltered.

"You..."

"It's fine. I'll call you again after you've had some rest."

Eva had intended to say there was no need for concern, that they could talk now, but just as she began to speak, a yawn she couldn't stifle forced its way out, and she almost teared up with exhaustion. "Still not hitting the bathroom?" Adrian Blackwood remarked, noticing her sleepiness reaching the point of tears. "Go get ready for bed."

With no other choice, Eva nodded.

"Alright, I'm gonna get ready for bed, and then you should too," she conceded.

Just before hanging up, Blackwood added, "Eva."

"Hmm?"

"Switch the camera around, show me the room."

Startled at first, Eva complied with his request, rotating the camera to give him a view of her room.

"See everything?"

He quietly observed the movement of her camera for a while before chuckling softly, "I see it. It brings back familiar, nostalgic feelings." "Enough now, go get ready for bed."

Eva nodded slowly, eventually ending the call.

Standing in her room, she surveyed the familiar surroundings and thought about her conversation with Blackwood, ultimately letting out a sigh.

 

 

Chapter 437 Nothing's Gone Wrong, Right?

After freshening up, Eva lay in bed. The blankets, sunned until they were soft and fluffy, seemed to envelop her entirely. She thought she had almost forgotten the events from five years ago, because when she first left, she would often reminisce about the various things that happened back home, especially the moments she shared with Adrian Blackwood. But as time passed, she dreamed of them less and less. Eventually, she stopped thinking about them altogether and lived her life in peace. She thought she had probably forgotten, but lying in this bed, the memories of her interactions with Adrian Blackwood flooded her mind like a tide. It was as if all their moments together were being played back in fast- forward. She had even shared the most intimate moments with Adrian Blackwood on this very bed. She didn't know how long she had been lost in thought, but eventually, Eva fell asleep without realizing it.

The next day, she was woken up by Dylan running into her room. Glancing at her phone, she realized it was already ten in the morning.

"Mommy, you've slept for so long," Dylan Hansen remarked, looking at her with a hint of surprise.

Eva, running her fingers through her slightly disheveled hair, replied somewhat embarrassingly, "I overslept without realizing it. I forgot to set the alarm last night."

Dylan climbed onto the bed and hugged her arm, whispering softly, "Mommy, grandma had the chef make lots of yummy food, but since you didn't get up, we ate first. Are you hungry now? Should we have them bring some up for you to eat?"

"No need," Eva refused, shaking her head. It wasn't that serious to have food brought to her room.

"Sweetie, you go downstairs first. Mommy will come down after changing clothes."

"Okay."

After Dylan Hansen left, Eva let out a sigh. She hadn't expected to sleep so deeply. Could it be because she was back in a familiar place that she had slept so soundly? She rarely had such deep sleep before.

After going downstairs, Eva started her breakfast. Ruby Hansen was already sitting comfortably in Margaret's lap, wearing a pretty bracelet on her wrist.

"Where did that come from?" Eva couldn't help but ask.

"Grandma gave it to Ruby!" Ruby Hansen, noticing her attention to the bracelet on her wrist, frequently showed it off to her, saying it was a gift from Margaret.

"Did you thank grandma?"

"I did, mommy."

Margaret, amused by her, pinched the little girl's soft cheeks before raising her head to Eva, "We've pretty much prepared everything for the move. Whenever you're free, we can go."

Considering the short distance, they had initially planned to fly, but due to safety concerns, they decided to drive their own car, accompanied by bodyguards.

Eva had no objections and thought for a moment before saying, "I'm fine, I can go anytime."

"Don't you need to rest some more?"

"I'm fine, mother. I'm not tired."

"Then let's head back sooner rather than later. After all, the kids still have to go to school."

"That sounds good."

Despite their age, the Blackwood couple was still very active and decisive. When they said they would do something, they did it without hesitation.

That afternoon, Eva and the Blackwoods set off for their return to Chicago.

On the way, Eva took out her phone to message Adrian Blackwood.

"I and your father and mother..."

She stopped, feeling something off with the way she addressed them. Although she wasn't quite ready to forgive Adrian Blackwood, referring to them as 'your father' and 'your mother' felt too distant. She deleted the message and started again.

"We're all on our way to Chicago today."

That seemed more appropriate.

She reviewed the message twice, ensuring it was fine before sending it.

Long after the message was sent, there was no reply from the other side.

Eva put her phone away, thinking he must be busy or asleep due to the time difference. She assumed he would reply when he had the chance.

They arrived in Chicago at night, the city alive with neon lights and towering skyscrapers.

Although Margaret was used to such sights, perhaps because they were in Chicago this time, she wanted to make Eva feel more comfortable or hoped to alleviate any potential stress.

"The architecture here in Chicago isn't any worse than in New York. I just checked the weather data; it's a suitable place to live. If you ever want to stay here longer, we can ask Adrian Blackwood to move the main company here." Her words were full of consideration for Eva.

Eva could only awkwardly respond, "That's up to him."

"Not up to him, up to us," Margaret insisted, holding Eva's slender wrist as if to assure her, "For you, he'd definitely be willing to move. If he isn't, then I'll help you."

Eva believed that sentiment. Considering Adrian Blackwood's recent behavior, it did seem like something he might do. But moving a company wasn't a small matter, especially since many of the Blackwood family's positions were held by local residents. A move would not only affect the Blackwood family but also their employees.

"Let's see how it goes," Eva suggested.

"Alright, we'll see. He probably won't be back for a while anyway."

Margaret didn't press further about why Adrian was still abroad, and Eva felt a bit guilty. The issue had been resolved, yet Adrian remained overseas because of her personal problems.

She wondered when he would return.

The Blackwoods owned property in Chicago, so they stayed in a house near the school for the night. Servants and housekeepers had arrived ahead of time, ensuring the place was spotlessly clean.

After settling in, Eva finally had time to check her phone again.

She noticed that Adrian Blackwood still hadn't replied to her message.

Furrowing her brows, she considered the possibility of something amiss. Although she wasn't usually superstitious about things like twitching eyelids signaling impending bad events, she couldn't shake off a strong sense of unease. Looking at the phone, their conversation had not progressed beyond the message she sent. It had been quite a while since she last heard from him. Even if he was busy, it shouldn't take this long, right? He wouldn't have gotten into trouble, would he?

 

Chapter 438 Haven't You Been In Touch?

The second the idea hit her, Eva hurriedly scrolled through her contacts list, about to call Adrian Blackwood.

Yet, after dialing the number, she hesitated, and two seconds later, she canceled the call that hadn't even gone through. If Adrian hadn't replied to her message, he was probably too busy or in a situation where responding wasn't feasible. Calling him in such a moment might just complicate things...

For his safety, she decided against calling him, comforting herself with the thought that he'd message her back once he was free. With this in mind, Eva carried her phone everywhere, even placing it on a stand within reach while she showered, always ready for any vibration.

Eva's focus wavered, her mind elsewhere as she showered, always alert for a message, only to rush out and find disappointment with each buzz that wasn't from Adrian. This cycle of hope and letdown lasted until she finished her shower, nearly an hour later.

Drying her hair in her room, her gaze incessantly snapped back to her phone, even as she lay down, staring at the pristine ceiling.

It hit Eva suddenly, how much she actually cared about Adrian Blackwood.

Was she overreacting over an unanswered message? This preoccupation was stifling-how was she supposed to test him if she was this anxious?

With a soft sigh, Eva turned in bed, facing the black screen of her phone.

Despite her desire to control her thoughts, she couldn't.

After an unbearably long wait, Eva eventually couldn't stand it any longer and called Jacob. When he answered, his voice was clouded with sleepiness, clearly roused from his slumber by her call. "Eva-Ms. Hansen, do you need something?" Eva checked the time and realized with surprise that it was already past noon.

Oh right, they had arrived in Chicago so late.

She pressed her lips together, asking softly, "I'm sorry for calling so late, did I disturb you?"

"Don't be a stranger, Ms. Hansen. I work for Mr. Blackwood, and my salary comes with being on call 24/7. Otherwise, you probably wouldn't be able to reach me."

Even so, Eva didn't take it for granted, speaking gently, "I wanted to ask, have you heard from Adrian Blackwood today? Any news on your end?"

Jacob nodded.

Realizing Eva couldn't see the gesture, he quickly added, "Ms. Hansen, if you're worried about Mr. Blackwood, there's no need. I was in touch with his team this morning. He's fine." "This morning?"

"Yes."

"Was it this morning?"

"Yes."

Eva couldn't help but scrunch up her nose.

He had contacted Jacob in the morning but not her?

"Ms. Hansen, I mean I spoke with someone on Mr. Blackwood's team, not directly with Mr. Blackwood himself," Jacob explained hurriedly, worried she might misunderstand. "What about after that?" Eva persisted, "No contact since this morning?"

"Well... Mr. Blackwood had important business today, so I didn't want to bother him."

Important business?

Why didn't he tell her? But Eva quickly let it go, understanding that he must've indeed been busy. Her text message shouldn't have been a bother then, right?

"Ms. Hansen, don't worry about Mr. Blackwood. It's getting late; maybe you should get some rest?"

Despite Jacob's suggestion, Eva didn't know why she felt so restless. But it was late, and it felt wrong to keep troubling him.

"Alright, you should rest too."

"If you need anything, just call me. And about Mr. Blackwood-if I hear anything, you'll be the first to know."

"Thank you."

After hanging up the call, Eva clung to her phone and rolled over, still far from restful.

Biting her lower lip, her mind was a tangled mess.

But she was at a loss for what to do.

Eventually, Eva dozed off with her phone clutched tight and thoughts swirling in confusion.

Later, it was the vibrating of her phone that woke her.

Groggy, she discovered it was the alarm she had set. Since she had gotten up too late the day before, she'd adjusted it to an earlier time. Eva couldn't tell if it was the loudness or the prolonged vibration that rattled her, but when she got up, her eyelids were twitching uncontrollably.

Her heart rate, too, was erratic.

After turning off the alarm, Eva leaned against the wall trying to steady her emotions. It took a while before her heartbeat slowed, but her eyelid kept twitching.

She was never superstitious-those beliefs about ominous eyelid twitches were not for her-but now, an uneasy premonition crept into her heart.

She felt like something was about to happen.

She glanced at her phone again; the text thread was frozen at her last sent message. Since yesterday, there had been radio silence. No matter how busy, couldn't be too engulfed in tasks for this long, right? Could something have happened to him?

As the thought flashed across her mind, Eva threw off the covers, grabbed a coat, and hurried out the door.

When she found Margaret, she was entertaining two kids, Ruby and Dylan. Seeing Eva dash over, Margaret looked puzzled.

"Eva, you're up? Why not sleep in a bit longer?"

Eva was about to inquire but swallowed her question upon seeing Ruby and Dylan.

Sensing Eva's halted intent through her actions and gaze, Margaret suggested, "Shall we talk outside?"

Eva nodded immediately.

"Yeah."

Margaret quickly excused herself from the kids and stepped out of the room with Eva.

Once outside, before Margaret could even ask what was wrong, Eva blurted out anxiously, "Mom, have you been in touch with Adrian Blackwood these past couple of days?"

"Adrian Blackwood?" Margaret was surprised by the question and pondered a moment before replying, "I spoke to him the night before we moved, telling him we'd be joining you in Chicago." "And after that? There's been no contact?"

Margaret shook her head slightly, a sense of concern beginning to mirror Eva's.

Margaret shook her head. "He's got his own life to live, and as parents, it's not right for us to be on his back all the time."

Taking in Margaret's words, it dawned on Eva with crystal clarity. She too hadn't managed to get in touch with Adrian Blackwood.

 

Chapter 439 I'll Go Find Him

Reflecting upon it, it made sense. If he hadn't reached out to her when they were usually in close contact, chances were he had not reached out to anyone else either. Yet, despite knowing this, Eva couldn't help but seek reassurance. Now, with a response finally in hand, her heart still felt a tinge of disappointment.

Seeing Eva with her eyes cast downward, lost in thought, Margaret recognized the look on the young woman she'd watched grow up. Putting together the pieces of the puzzle wasn't hard; she could guess what Eva was preoccupied with. Stepping closer with a probing tone, Margaret asked, "Eva, are you worried because Adrian Blackwood hasn't been in touch for the past couple of days?"

Confronted with Margaret's question, Eva felt a sense of solidarity in their shared womanhood and nodded without hesitation, admitting to her concerns. "Yeah, normally, he'd at least reply to my messages."

"That's true," Margaret said, her brows knitting together with concern after hearing Eva's words. "How long has it been since he last contacted you?"

Eva briefly described the time that had lapsed and the messages left unreplied.

"Well, even though it seems like a while since yesterday, have you considered the time difference between here and abroad? Perhaps he got busy and only had time to get home when it was the middle of the night here, and he didn't want to disturb you. It's still early; why don't we wait a bit longer?"

Her words were meant to reassure Eva, and they were logical at that.

However, Eva didn't feel comforted. Her eyelids had been twitching non-stop since she woke up, as if ominously hinting at something. It made her extremely uneasy, and to make matters worse, she couldn't reach Adrian.

"Have you tried calling him?" Margaret asked, seeing the worry linger in Eva's expression.

Eva bit her lower lip and shared her thoughts.

Gradually, Margaret began to piece things together.

"Is the work he's doing overseas dangerous?"

Eva had assumed Margaret was aware of Adrian's activities abroad, but her question suggested otherwise. Had he not told them anything?

Should she share what she knew?

If she did, would it only cause her elders more worry?

With this in mind, Eva collected her thoughts and tempered her voice, "It's not that it's dangerous. It's just with him being so far away and out of sight, I can't help but worry."

Understanding dawned on Margaret as she listened, and she patted Eva's shoulder reassuringly.

"I see. Don't fret; he'll definitely get in touch when he can."

Margaret suddenly realized that with Eva and her son's recent reconciliation, the uncertainty from Adrian's distant behavior was probably weighing on her.

After Eva left, she planned to give him an earful over the phone, telling him to step up his game.

The last thing she needed was to finally win him back just to lose him again.

"Alright, up bright and early without an extra layer - are you heading back to bed or ready for breakfast?"

Eva mulled it over, then said, "I'll head downstairs for breakfast."

Something else crossed her mind. "Mom, I'm thinking of going out today. As for Ruby and Dylan..."

"Don't worry about them; I've got Ruby and Dylan covered. I'll drop them off at school later, and don't fret about pick-up-I'll make sure they get home. Oh, and when you go out, remember to take your bodyguard with you. You don't want Adrian Blackwood worrying about you."

Margaret didn't suspect the need for a bodyguard; she simply figured that Adrian Blackwood's insistence on protection was due to the two kids around. Their social circle wasn't immune to similar incidents before, with kidnappers targeting naive children to extort money from families.

If the demands weren't met, threats to harm the hostages were inevitable.

Such events weren't commonplace among the wealthy since they typically guarded their offspring well, yet a moment of negligence giving criminals the opportunity was their greatest fear-not the ransom, but the safety of their children. That's why the sight of bodyguards didn't surprise Margaret.

"Got it," she acknowledged.

After affirming her mother, Eva turned and left.

She went back to her room to change into casual wear and was about to leave the house when a staff called her back to have breakfast.

Reluctantly, Eva sat down, absent-mindedly picking at her food while scrolling through her phone.

Her appetite was poor; she barely managed a few bites before Jacob's call came through.

At the sight of Jacob's name, Eva's heart skipped a beat, and she quickly answered.

"Hello, Brent, do you have any news?"

There was a brief silence on the line, then, "Ms. Hansen, don't panic. Although I haven't been able to reach Mr. Blackwood just yet, please rest assured, he's definitely fine." Eva had expected to be apprised about Adrian Blackwood, but Jacob's words caused her spirit to plummet.

"What do you mean? You haven't made contact with him? What about his people? There were many with him when we left; surely you must've reached someone?" "Yes, we made contact..." Jacob's voice was somber, "but..."

"But what?"

Eva's voice rose in volume, probably because she had been restless since the previous night, which unintentionally lent an edge to her tone, bordering on irritable.

By the time she recognized the harshness of her words, they were already out there.

Eva composed herself.

"Sorry, I overreacted a bit. Tell me, what happened after you finally got in touch?"

"Well, Ms. Hansen, from what I've heard, Adrian Blackwood left yesterday, and there were only two people left in the villa to relay messages. But after they departed, the others lost contact; their calls just wouldn't go through." No connection?

"Don't worry, Ms. Hansen, the area they went to is known for bad reception. It's normal for cell phones to have no service there. Mr. Blackwood has a lot of people with him; he'll be fine."

Despite the reassuring words, Eva couldn't help but bite her lower lip - so hard that she drew blood without even noticing. If anything happened to Adrian Blackwood on this trip, she would be consumed by regret. "Ms. Hansen, are you still there?"

Jacob had to call out several times before Eva snapped back to reality.

"Yeah."

"The thing is, I trust that Mr. Blackwood will be alright. Still... I'm considering buying another ticket to fly back."

Hearing this, Eva felt a chill in her heart.

She couldn't help wondering if Jacob was holding back the whole truth to keep her from worrying.

"Are you going alone?"

"Of course not, I'll bring people with me. In case anything has happened to Mr. Blackwood, we'll be ready to provide support."

"Alright, then... please take care of it."

She struggled to utter those words.

Her lips moved, trying several times to tell Jacob that she wanted to go too.

But she was the reason all this started. If she went, wouldn't she just add to the chaos? In the end, she swallowed all the words she wanted to say.

 

 

Chapter 440 Hesitant to Decide

After putting away her phone, Eva had lost all appetite.

She had planned to go out, but now that she was briefed on the basic situation, there was no need. "Ms. Hansen?"

The sudden shift in her emotions during the phone call had silenced the staff who had not dared speak a word until now. Seeing Eva hadn't touched her food since hanging up, the staff cautiously reminded her, "The food is getting cold." Hearing this, Eva glanced down at the spread before her, then back at the staff. She parted her lips, intending to say she couldn't eat and to have the staff take the meal away.

In the end, she forced herself to swallow the last few bites of her meal before standing up to leave.

She always lectured her two kids about not wasting food. How could she not practice what she preached?

After heading upstairs, Eva Shen dialed Adrian Blackwood's number.

Despite Jacob's warning that the call probably wouldn't go through, she stubbornly tried anyway.

Ring-ring-

After two rings, the call disconnected automatically without even going to voicemail. There was no way to get through.

The busy tone echoed in her ears as Eva's heart sank again.

What on earth was going on?

Right then, her phone rang, startling Eva amid the silence of the room. She half-expected it was Adrian Blackwood returning her call, but her hopes plummeted once she saw the caller ID. "Hello?"

"Boss, why do you sound so down?"

Tim's voice reached her after days of silence.

Right now, apart from Adrian Blackwood, no one else's call could lift her spirits. When Tim inquired, she replied with a despondent tone.

"Nothing, what's up?"

"Come on, boss, when was the last time you stepped foot in the office? I couldn't even reach you by phone. If I hadn't checked with Brent, I wouldn't have known you'd gone abroad."

The office. That's right... she had a company to run.

Since being unexpectedly whisked away by Michael Cooper, she hadn't been to the office in ages.

"Sorry, I've been... tied up with a lot lately."

Eva didn't plan to divulge the truth, so she brushed it off with an excuse.

"I get it, being busy is part of the job. But when do you think you'll swing by the office? I might have plenty of experience, but I'm not the boss. There are decisions I can't make without you. Can you find a day to come in?" "I'll be there right away." After hanging up, Eva quickly left her house.

By the time she arrived at the office, Tim was just finishing up a contract negotiation. Having just seen his counterpart out, he briefed Eva on the contract details and handed over the documents.

"This project looks promising, but without you here, I didn't dare make the call, and frankly, I shouldn't. You should take a look personally." "Okay."

Eva took the contract and began to leaf through the dense text. But as she read, Adrian Blackwood's face kept intruding on her thoughts.

Meanwhile, Tim watched her sit there, staring at the first page of the contract - for one minute, two minutes, then five, without turning the page.

Finding it odd, Tim tilted his head, trying to read the expression in her eyes.

Geez, she was staring into space, her thoughts who knows where. She didn't look like she was even looking at the contract.

Tim rapped on the desk and spoke up, "Boss?"

It took several shouts for Tim to snap Eva back to reality.

Once she refocused, Eva met Tim's exasperated gaze with peak contrition.

"Sorry, I zoned out for a second there."

"Boss, I get that you might have a lot on your plate right now, but all you need to do is give this contract a quick once-over. You can go back to daydreaming after, deal?"

Eva gave him a faint smile and nodded. This time, without distraction, she meticulously reviewed and signed the contract.

She handed the document back to Tim. "Thanks for all your hard work lately."

"No trouble at all. What are assistants for?" Tim replied with a light smile. He should have left with the contract, but his curiosity got the better of him as he lingered. "Boss, is it something personal troubling you?"

His prying, however, went unanswered as Eva, after handing over the contract, had already drifted back into her thoughts.

With no other option, Tim resignedly said, "Alright then, just be careful heading out later. Don't need any trouble."

With those words, he turned to leave and was surprised at the door by six or seven imposing figures in black suits and sunglasses.

"Who are you guys??"

The leader, acknowledging Tim's position as Eva's manager, afforded him a modicum of civility.

"Hello, we're Ms. Hansen's bodyguards."

Tim was speechless.

After her absence and now reappearing with this level of security, it was clear to the astute Tim that something wasn't right.

So it wasn't business that kept her busy recently, but trouble, hence the new entourage.

No wonder she seemed so uneasy reviewing the contract.

With that thought, Tim sighed internally. While he didn't know exactly what was amiss, he had a hunch.

But pressing her about it now would only add to her turmoil, so he quickly left the office with the contract.

After Tim's departure, the lead bodyguard knocked and entered, finding Eva alone, lost in thought at her desk.

Hearing the knock, she looked up.

"What is it?"

The bodyguard nodded, "We need to ensure Ms. Hansen's safety. If you intend to stay and work here today, Ms. Hansen, we must secure the premises."

Eva pondered for a moment before responding to his concern.

After speaking, it seemed as if the other party was worried she might refuse; before she could even get a word out, they added, "This office is all windows. Their people might come in from this side." Eva instinctively glanced at the floor-to-ceiling windows.

"And the ventilation ducts," they continued.

Eva sighed internally. If a person could fit through the vent, then windows were hardly worth mentioning.

"Okay," she murmured.

Once she had agreed, a group of people poured into the room. Eva watched as the once spacious office became cramped with the arrival of several stout men, to the point where even the air seemed to stagnate. Eva stood, intending to open a window for some fresh air.

But as she approached, a bodyguard closed in, blocking her path, "Ms. Hansen, please don't stand near the window. It's not safe."