secret lover 172 Summary


    In “Secret Lover,” Axel finds himself in a tense moment with Evelyn, who expresses concern over his reckless driving after a few drinks. Despite his attempts to lighten the mood with humor, Evelyn’s skepticism reveals her deep care for him. Axel feels a flicker of guilt for worrying her, but he brushes it off with yful banter. Their interaction is filled with a mix of light-heartedness and underlying tension, hinting at deeper issues Axel is grappling with, especially regarding his family’s safety and past secrets.


    Three days after Oliver’s birthday, the household has settled into a routine. Evelyn is busy managing her work and ensuring Oliver’s schedule is filled with enriching activities, reflecting her dedication as a mother. Axel, despite his long hours, makes time for Oliver, which Evelyn cherishes. However, today is significant for Evelyn as she ns a surprise lunch meeting with her sister, Ste, at a private Japanese restaurant, eager to share news that has been weighing on her.


    Upon arriving at the restaurant, Evelyn is taken aback to find her grandparents, Samuel and Lucy, waiting for her. The emotional reunion is charged with unspoken regrets and sorrow, particrly regarding her father’s past actions. Evelyn’s grandmother embraces her, expressing sorrow for the hardships Evelyn has faced. The conversation reveals long-held family tensions and regrets, but also a desire for reconciliation and connection. Evelyn reassures them that she never med them for her father’s actions, showcasing her strength and forgiveness.


    As the lunch progresses, the atmosphere lightens thanks to Ste’s humor, and the family begins to bond over shared memories andughter. Evelyn shares the news of her son, Oliver, bringing joy to her grandparents. Their excitement and eagerness to meet Oliver contrast with Evelyn’s internal struggle about revealing more about his father. The chapter closes with a sense of hope for family reunification, yet Evelyn remains guarded about certain truths, hinting atplexities that lie ahead.Continue Regr Chapter Reading Below


    **TITLE: Secret Lover**


    **Regret Won’t Change What He Did**


    **Purple Light**


    **Creator’s Thoughts**


    **The Emotions She Couldn’t Name!**


    Axel found himself momentarily paralyzed, a flurry of thoughts racing through his mind before he managed to conjure a shaky smile. “Yes. Just a little,” he replied, his voice slightly wavering.


    Evelyn raised an eyebrow, skepticism etched on her face. “And you still drove home?” she questioned, her tone sharp, yetced with concern.


    Caught off guard by her unexpected worry, Axel felt a flicker of guilt. “Eve,e on… I didn’t drive on the public street,” he reassured her hastily. “I only went around our property. Plus, I took some of the off-road paths.”


    Evelyn shook her head gently, her expression revealing her disbelief. “You’re unbelievable, Axel. Do you think the rules don’t apply just because the property belongs to you?”


    A soft chuckle escaped him, his yful tone attempting to lighten the mood. “Exactly! I own the road, right? No one can arrest me for that!” He shed her a mischievous grin, hoping to defuse her irritation.


    Before she could respond, he added quickly, “Well, technically, no one was using the street, so I’m safe.” Hisughter was tinged with nervousness as he sensed her lingering displeasure.


    “Not funny. What if you hit a wild deer or a bear?” she retorted, though the corners of her mouth twitched, betraying her amusement.


    Axel stifled augh, her serious demeanor contrasting with herical words. Leaning in closer, he lowered his voice conspiratorially. “Then you’ll have to punish meter,” he teased, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes.


    Instantly, her cheeks flushed, and she turned away, feigning indifference as she walked toward the hallway. “You’d better wash up before dinner, Mr. Knight. Or your clever son will start asking questions…”


    “Yes, ma’am,” he replied with a grin, watching her retreat into the house.


    As Axel stepped inside, the familiar warmth enveloped him, aforting embrace after the chill of the outside world. The distant sound of Oliver’sughter echoed from the living room, apanied by Oscar’s voice, a reminder of the joy that filled their home.


    However, he didn’t linger. He hurried to the master bedroom, needing to clean up. Yet, as he walked, his thoughts drifted back to Ethan’s ominous words and the photographs that had vanished: Maxime and the Martinez family.


    The fire may have consumed the tangible evidence, but Axel knew the truth lingered in the shadows of the city, waiting to resurface. He cast onest nce at the hallway where Evelyn had disappeared, whispering to himself with conviction, “No one’s touching my family!”


    Then, he rushed to the master bedroom.


    **Three dayster.**


    Three days had slipped by since Oliver’s fourth birthday, and the household had finally settled back into its usual rhythm.


    Evelyn’s mornings began early once more, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through her office as she scrolled through a sea of work emails. Amidst her professional responsibilities, she made it a point to apany Oliver to his lessons, ensuring he had a full schedule.


    Oliver was now enrolled in piano and horseback riding sses, his calendar brimming with activities that left Evelyn in awe. Each day, she marveled at the irony; her four-year-old son was already busier than many adults she knew.


    This wasn’t merely about talent; Axel was determined to mold their son into a capable, disciplined individual, someone ready to inherit the family empire one day. Evelyn often joked that Oliver was being “groomed like a little CEO,” but deep down, she respected her husband’s vision.


    Axel had also been caught up in the whirlwind of busynesstely. He would leave after breakfast, returning home only for dinner, yet no matter how fatigued he appeared, he always dedicated at least half an hour to their son before bed. He would read stories, listen to Oliver’s tentative piano notes, or engage in animated discussions about horses and ponies.


    Those moments were the ones Evelyn cherished the most.


    Yet today felt different.


    Evelyn had something special nned—a lunch meeting with her sister, Ste. It wasn’t just a casual meal; she had a surprise that had been difficult to keep under wraps all week.


    Evelyn wanted to share the news with Ste in person, so she arranged to meet her at their favorite private Japanese restaurant downtown—the same ce where they had shared intimate conversations away from prying eyes and intrusive reporters.


    As she stepped outside, Liam, her ever-reliable driver and bodyguard, stood waiting by the car.


    “Lady Boss,” he greeted her with a respectful nod, opening the car door for her.


    “Thanks, Liam,” she replied as she settled into the back seat. “Oh, and please don’t close the restaurant today. It would create unnecessary trouble for the manager, and I don’t want Axel wasting money on that.”


    Liam, maintaining his usual stoic expression, nodded slightly. “Understood, Ma’am. I won’t…”


    Evelyn smiled, satisfied with his response.


    What Liam didn’t reveal was that the restaurant had already been closed to the public. Axel, upon learning of her lunch ns, had discreetly contacted the restaurant’s manager that very morning. No paparazzi, no guests—just Evelyn and whoever she wished to meet.


    Liam had his orders, and some truths were better left unsaid.


    The drive was tranquil, the city shing by in muted hues as they made their way.


    Upon arriving, the restaurant’s expansive ss doors reflected the quiet elegance of the establishment. Evelyn stepped out, ncing around; it seemed unusually empty.


    “Strange. Did you just open?” she inquired of the staff member at the entrance.


    “Yes, Madam,” the staff member replied with a courteous bow.


    Evelyn continued through the vacant hallway toward the VIP room where the manager was leading her, anticipation bubbling within her.


    However, as the sliding door opened, she halted mid-step, her heart racing. Inside, Ste sat with a nervous smile, but beside her were two familiar figures she hadn’t anticipated seeing so soon—her grandparents, Samuel and Lucy Walters.


    Her throat tightened instantly, a wave of emotions crashing over her. For a moment, she felt rooted to the spot, unable to move as the sight of her grandmother’s gentle, aging face and her grandfather’s dignified presence overwhelmed her.


    “Sister,e in…” Ste urged softly, rising from her seat. She took Evelyn’s hand gently, pulling her inside and closing the door behind them before Evelyn could even contemte escaping.


    Lucy Walters stood immediately, her voice trembling as she broke the fragile silence. “Oh, my dear, Eve…”


    Before Evelyn could respond, her grandmother enveloped her in a warm embrace, her tears soaking into Evelyn’s shoulder. “I’m so sorry, my sweet girl. I’m so sorry for what happened. You’ve been through so much.”


    Evelyn initially froze but slowly returned the embrace, her chest aching with a mix of love and sorrow. “Gr-Grandma,” she whispered, her voice barely escaping her lips.


    Lucy pulled back slightly, her wrinkled hand brushing against Evelyn’s cheek. “Eve, you’ve grown more beautiful than ever. Just like your mother…”


    The mention of herte mother sent a wave of emotion crashing over Evelyn, her eyes blurring with unshed tears.


    “It’s been a long time…” Evelyn managed, her voice soft yet filled with longing.


    “Yes, dear. I still remember her very well,” Lucy said gently, squeezing Evelyn’s hand, her voice rich with memories.


    Before Evelyn could respond, Samuel approached quietly, his expression heavy with regret. “Honey,” he said weakly, ncing between his wife and Evelyn, “Eve… Let’s sit first.”


    They settled into their seats, Evelyn finding herself beside her grandmother, while Ste and her grandfather took the opposite side.


    Samuel cleared his throat, his tone heavy with sincerity as he began, “Eve, there’s something I’ve wanted to say to you for years.”


    Evelyn met his gaze calmly, waiting for him to continue.


    “I’m sorry, my dear. For what happened to you back then,” Samuel said, his expression solemn.


    Evelyn remained silent, allowing him to express his remorse.


    “Your grandmother and I were in Europe on a three-week cruise. By the time we returned, it had already been a week since your father…” He hesitated, his voice dropping to a somber tone, “…since your father disowned you.”


    Lucy’s hand tightened around Evelyn’s, her eyes glistening as painful memories resurfaced.


    “I tried to find you,” Samuel continued, his voice thick with emotion. “But your father had buried everything about you. We had no address, no number, nothing. I wanted to help, but I failed you.”


    Evelyn nodded slowly, already aware of the story through Ste. “I know, Grandpa. I heard about that from Ste…” she said softly, her voice calm. “And please, Grandpa, stop ming yourself, because I never med you. You were away, and I made my own choices.”


    Lucy let out a shaky sigh, her tears finally drying. “You’re still the same, always so forgiving. I was afraid you hated us.”


    “How could I?” Evelyn smiled faintly, her tone polite and warm. “You were the only two people who truly cared for me when I was a child. You gave me everything my father couldn’t.”


    Her grandmother’s eyes glistened with tears of gratitude, yet she asked quietly, “Then why didn’t you visit us, dear? You never came back to the house. I thought you were still angry with us.”


    Evelyn answered honestly, “Because I didn’t want to cross paths with William Walters.”


    Both elders froze for a moment, their expressions faltering before they quicklyposed themselves.


    Samuel nodded slightly, understanding her reluctance. “That’s fair.”


    Lucy sighed softly. “Your father is still stubborn. He always has been. But he regrets what he did in the past, even if he’ll never admit it.”


    Evelyn’s eyes flickered with faint amusement. “Regret won’t change what he did.”


    Her grandmother lowered her gaze, sadness clouding her gentle features. “You’re right, Eve… You are right.”


    Before the conversation could delve into heavier territory, Ste, who had been quietly nibbling on her sushi, suddenly looked up. “Okay, okay… everyone’s getting too emotional,” she eximed, waving her chopsticks dramatically. “This was supposed to be a surprise lunch, not a family therapy session. Let’s eat, huh!?”


    Lucy chuckled softly while Samuel shook his head, trying to suppress a smile.


    Evelyn let out a smallugh as well. “You never change, Ste…”


    “I try not to,” Ste replied with a grin. “If I did, this lunch would be unbearably serious.”


    Her light-heartedness lifted the atmosphere, andughter echoed around the table, easing the tension that had hung in the air.


    Turning back to her grandmother, Evelyn smiled warmly. “I’m happy to see you both. I’ve missed having you in my life.”


    Lucy squeezed her hand, her eyes shining with affection. “Then let’s not lose each other again, alright?”


    “Alright,” Evelyn replied softly, her heart swelling with hope.


    Finally, they could enjoy their lunch together.


    Samuel had been listening intently, a warm smile gracing his features as he absorbed everything Evelyn shared about her life.


    However, a subtle shift urred in his expression, a faint crease appearing on his forehead as a memory stirred within him.


    His voice softened, hesitant. “Eve, I’m sorry to ask… how about the child? Did you—”


    Before he could finish, Ste eagerly interjected. “Grandpa! Sister Eve… has a son. His name is Oliver. He just turned four a few days ago.”


    Evelyn’s eyes shot toward her sister, a look that clearlymunicated ‘not now.’


    But it was toote.


    Lucy and Samuel froze for a heartbeat, exchanging astonished nces before breaking into smiles.


    “Four years old?” Lucy gasped, her eyes filling with tears of joy. “You mean… we have a great-grandson?”


    Evelyn sighed quietly, yet couldn’t suppress a smile at her grandmother’s excitement. “Yes, Grandma. His name is Oliver.”


    Samuel’s face softened, as if a weight had been lifted from his heart. “Thank God,” he murmured, tears blurring his vision. “I was worried… I feared something terrible might have happened to you, Eve, in the past. But God watches over you… Oh my… I feel so happy.”


    Lucy reached out, taking Evelyn’s hand and squeezing it affectionately. “Eve, we’re so happy to hear this. You have no idea how long we’ve prayed for you, for your safety, and for you to find happiness again. Oh dear, I can’t wait to meet him.”


    Before Evelyn could respond, Ste chimed in cheerfully, “Oh, you’ll love him, Grandma! He’s smart and polite and looks exactly like—”


    Evelyn’s re at Ste was enough to make her press her lips together, fearing her sister would stuff sushi into her mouth.


    “Like who?” Lucy asked, her curiosity piqued.


    “—like sister Eve,” Ste finished weakly, forcing an awkwardugh.


    Lucy chuckled at their yful banter. “He sounds wonderful. When can we see him? Why didn’t you invite us to his birthday?”


    “Grandma, I’m sorry. I didn’t invite many people to his birthday. Just family and close friends who already know about him,” Evelyn exined.


    Ste piped up again, “Oh, but Grandma, you’ll never guess… Mom and I were both invited to the celebration. The party was beautiful.”


    Evelyn narrowed her eyes at her sister. “Ste, stop giving out spoilers.”


    Samuelughed heartily, the first genuineugh he’d had all afternoon. “You two haven’t changed at all. One always keeps secrets, and the other can’t stop spilling them.”


    Lucy smiled warmly. “Evelyn, dear, please let us meet him soon. He’s our first great-grandson, after all. I want to bake him something special.”


    Her grandmother’s enthusiasm melted away Evelyn’s reservations. She nodded softly. “Alright. I’ll bring Oliver to meet you both soon.”


    The couple exchanged joyful nces, Lucy’s eyes sparkling with excitement, and Samuel wearing a proud smile.


    “We’ll be waiting, Eve…”


    Though Evelyn smiled, a quiet unease settled in her heart. She silently prayed they wouldn’t inquire about Oliver’s father.


    That was a conversation she wasn’t ready to have just yet.Conclusion


    As the lunch unfolded, a sense of warmth enveloped Evelyn, easing the burdens she had carried for so long. The reunion with her grandparents, filled withughter and shared memories, reminded her of the love that had always existed beneath the surface, despite the years of silence and estrangement. In the presence of her family, Evelyn felt the weight of her past begin to lift, reced by a flicker of hope for the future. The joy of reconnecting with her roots and the excitement of introducing Oliver to his great-grandparents filled her heart with a renewed sense of belonging, allowing her to envision a life where love and eptance could flourish once more.


    Yet, as theughter echoed around the table, a lingering apprehension tugged at her heart. The unspoken truth about Oliver’s father loomed like a shadow, a reminder of theplexities that stilly ahead. Evelyn knew that while this moment was a celebration of reconnection, it was also a precursor to the difficult conversations that awaited her. However, she resolved to embrace this newfound joy, cherishing theughter and love that surrounded her. With a deep breath, she allowed herself to believe that perhaps, just perhaps, the wounds of the past could heal, and the future could hold the promise of a family united in love and understanding.What to Expect in Next Chapter?


    **What to Expect in Next Chapter?**


    As the emotional reunion between Evelyn and her grandparents unfolds, readers can anticipate a deeper exploration of family dynamics and unresolved tensions. The fragile bonds of the past will be tested as Evelyn navigates herplex feelings towards her father, William Walters, and the implications of their strained rtionship on her new family life. Will her grandparents push for reconciliation, or will they respect her boundaries? As secrets linger in the air, the chapter promises to delve into the emotional intricacies of forgiveness and the weight of familial expectations.


    Moreover, the impending introduction of Oliver to his great-grandparents adds anotheryer of intrigue. How will Evelyn bnce the joy of this reunion with the looming specter of her past? The chapter is likely to reveal pivotal moments that challenge Evelyn’s resolve, forcing her to confront not just her family’s history, but her own choices as a mother. As the story unfolds, readers may also witness Axel’s growing concern about the shadows from his past that threaten their family’s peace, setting the stage for potential conflicts that could ripple through their lives. Expect a blend of heartwarming moments and tension as Evelyn’s journey continues, leaving readers eager to discover how she will navigate her rtionships amidst theplexities of love, loyalty, and legacy.


    Sara Lili


    <strong>Sara Lili</strong> is a daring romance writer who turns icyndscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of d’s breathtaking cold.