Chapter 317

Sophia spoke in a rush. "This will always be your home. You're welcome anytime."

Ever since the Mitchell Group faced turmoil, Sophia had witnessed Evelyn's capabilities and her crucial help to the family. A deep, unexpected fondness had taken root in her heart.

When Evelyn mentioned returning, Sophia wasted no time informing Margaret.

Margaret's expression turned icy.

"Is she coming back to mock us?"

"Mom, that's not true. Evelyn cares about Dad. She saved us this time. Without her, things could've been disastrous. If Victor hadn't been exposed, Dad would still trust him blindly. The Mitchells might have lost everything."

Though Sophia didn't fully understand why Evelyn had hesitated at first, she sensed there had to be a reason. Evelyn wasn't cruel—she had refused, yet still stepped in when it mattered.

After persistent persuasion, Margaret finally gave a reluctant nod.

Evelyn arrived at Mitchell Manor alone. The moment the car pulled up, Sophia rushed outside to greet her.

This was the first time Evelyn felt something different about returning home. The shift was unsettling.

Sophia beamed at her. "Evelyn, perfect timing. Mom's almost done with dinner. Let's eat and catch up."

She reached for Evelyn's hand. The sudden familiarity made Evelyn stiffen.

Evelyn didn't move. "Please don’t. Just act like you always have. Otherwise, I might think you want something."

Sophia flushed. "I—I didn’t mean—"

"Stop. I came to check on Dad and ask about Victor. As for apologies, save them. You haven’t done anything that warrants one."

Evelyn was never one for pretense. She spoke plainly, her tone cool but not unkind.

She knew she and Sophia would never share the same bond she had with Charlotte. And she refused to fake warmth.

Sophia's smile faltered, but she recovered quickly. "Let’s go inside."

She dropped Evelyn’s arm, though her gaze lingered on Evelyn’s abdomen. The slight curve was unmistakable now.

"How far along are you?"

"Four months."

"Six more to go. Can I visit when the baby comes?"

Evelyn blinked, taken aback. She studied Sophia’s hopeful expression before nodding. "Sure. But it’s still early."

Sophia grinned. They stepped inside.

The manor felt hollow without staff.

"Mom fired all the servants," Sophia explained. "Said we needed to cut costs and share the load."

"Hiring a cook and cleaner wouldn’t break the bank. Doing everything yourselves is exhausting."

"I agree. I’ll talk to her later."

They entered the living room just as Margaret emerged from the kitchen.

"Mom, Evelyn’s here."

Margaret gave a stiff nod but said nothing.

Evelyn met her eyes briefly. The memory of Margaret’s harsh words at the hospital still stung. She didn’t offer a greeting.

The tension thickened. Sophia intervened. "Mom, can you get Dad for dinner?"

Margaret left without a word.

The four of them sat at the table in silence.

None could remember the last time they’d shared a meal like this.