Chapter 161

In a split second, Beatrice had reached her decision.

Evelyn Carter remained oblivious to the older woman's thoughts. "Mr. Whitmore requested I drive them here," she explained hastily.

Beatrice merely hummed in acknowledgment before shooting Harrison Whitmore a pointed glare.

Harrison rubbed his nose, utterly perplexed by his mother's expression.

Without hesitation, Beatrice dismissed Diana Chamberlain. "In that case, Diana, your duties are concluded for today."

"Since my goddaughter Evelyn is visiting, I won't trouble you to stay for supper. We'll arrange a proper dinner invitation another time."

Diana's expression flickered momentarily before she regained her composure. "Of course, Mrs. Whitmore. I'll take my leave then."

Turning to Harrison, she added, "Mr. Whitmore, I'll be going now."

Harrison gave a curt nod.

Diana's fists clenched involuntarily. Though reluctant to depart, she couldn't justify remaining.

Once she'd gone, Beatrice turned to Evelyn. "Darling Evelyn, don't fret! There won't be any more female assistants hovering around him from now on. No workplace romances."

She fixed Harrison with a stern look. "Have her reassigned immediately, or you'll answer to me."

Harrison offered no protest. When Beatrice Whitmore spoke, her word was law.

Evelyn blinked in surprise at her godmother's bluntness.

Changing the subject, she asked, "Aunt Beatrice, didn't you mention making my favorite lasagna? I'm absolutely famished."

"You little gourmand, come inside at once," Beatrice chuckled.

The trio settled around the dining table, the atmosphere warm and convivial.

"Evelyn, have another helping of lasagna," Beatrice urged, spooning more onto Evelyn's already overflowing plate.

"Aunt Beatrice, this is too much! I'll never finish it all," Evelyn protested with a laugh.

"Nonsense," Beatrice waved her hand. "Harrison can eat whatever you leave. He's been finishing leftovers since he was in diapers."

Harrison adopted an expression of wounded innocence, feeling distinctly victimized by their banter.

"Mother, I'm beginning to seriously doubt my biological origins," he sighed dramatically.

Beatrice didn't miss a beat. "I've told you countless times - we found you in a cabbage patch. Where's your self-awareness?"

Defeated, Harrison focused on his meal.

After dinner, Beatrice and Evelyn settled into comfortable conversation, discussing everything from fashion to recent events.

Beatrice produced a jewelry box containing a sapphire necklace she'd recently acquired - a rare piece worth millions.

"Oh, it's exquisite!" Evelyn gasped as Beatrice fastened it around her neck.

Beatrice nodded approvingly before turning to Harrison. "See? Your mother's taste remains impeccable, doesn't it?"

"Absolutely stunning," Harrison agreed, his gaze lingering on Evelyn. "Though the gem pales beside its wearer."

Evelyn flushed, surprised by Harrison's unexpected charm.

Beatrice observed their interaction with quiet satisfaction, pleased her son was finally catching on.

"Next time you see something beautiful, remember to purchase it for Evelyn. No skimping," she instructed.

Harrison appeared duly chastened, though his eyes never left Evelyn. "Understood," he murmured.

Evelyn's smile blossomed, warmth spreading through her at being so cherished. Linking arms with Beatrice, she declared, "Aunt Beatrice, you're simply the best."

"Naturally, darling. You've always been family to me."

She only wished the day would come soon when that would be official.

Beatrice couldn't resist shooting Harrison another warning glance that clearly said: "Let my future daughter-in-law slip away, and you'll regret it."