Chapter 268

The disciplinary action had left Diana Chamberlain stripped of her prestigious title. Once the executive assistant to the CEO, she now headed the marketing division.

This demotion burned like acid in Diana's veins. She'd approached Harrison Whitmore multiple times, pleading her case, only to be met with stone-cold rejection each time.

After countless sleepless nights, Diana arrived at an undeniable conclusion - only one person held sway over Harrison's decisions.

Evelyn Carter.

"Mr. Whitmore." Diana dipped her head in practiced deference.

Then her gaze shifted to Evelyn, adopting the perfect blend of respect and warmth. "Ms. Carter."

Evelyn responded with a gracious smile before gliding into Harrison's office.

Diana trailed behind, arms laden with files. "The quarterly marketing reports require your approval, sir."

Harrison took his seat, fountain pen flashing as he signed with decisive strokes.

During his absence, paperwork had multiplied like rabbits across his mahogany desk. Evelyn settled onto the leather sofa to wait.

Boredom led her to flip absently through a fashion magazine.

By the time Harrison finished, exhaustion had claimed Evelyn. She lay curled against the cushions, breathing softly in sleep.

Harrison set aside his pen and crept forward. He draped a cashmere throw over her shoulders, the moment stretching into eternity.

Gazing at her peaceful expression, memories flooded his mind.

The year Harrison turned seven.

Since toddlerhood, one persistent wish had consumed him. When the pigtailed girl moved in next door, his longing intensified.

He'd pestered Beatrice relentlessly.

"Mother, can't you give me a baby sister?"

"Please, I promise to be the best big brother!"

"I'll protect her and share all my toys-"

Beatrice's fragile health after Harrison's birth made another pregnancy impossible.

"Darling, what about this beautiful doll? She can be your pretend sister."

Harrison had shoved it away, tears burning. "I want a real sister!"

Beatrice could only sigh helplessly.

Years passed, but Harrison's wish never faded.

He couldn't recall the exact date.

Only that winter morning when sunlight first pierced the seasonal gloom.

Golden beams painted the azure sky, warmth returning to the world.

"Harrison! Come meet your new sister!"

His Dr. Martens pounded down the staircase. There she stood - a cherubic vision in crimson riding gear.

Evelyn had been five then.

Her enormous eyes studied him solemnly until Beatrice made introductions. "Sweetheart, this is Harrison!"

Suddenly, sunshine burst across Evelyn's face. "Harrison!" she chirped.

Beatrice fussed over her new charge. "Come here! She's your sister now!"

Harrison's heart soared. Finally - a real sister!

"Evelyn adores horseback riding," Beatrice said. "There's a pony waiting outside. Will you take her?"

Young Harrison squared his shoulders. "I'll protect her always."

That first caretaking moment remained etched in his mind. How carefully he'd positioned the mounting block. "Steady now, Evelyn! Never touch a horse's hindquarters!"

The little girl nodded earnestly. "Okay, Harrison!"