Derek sighed deeply, frustrated by his continued charade with Michael but thankful for Evelyn's support.

"Thanks for looking out for me when you should be focusing on proving your innocence," he said. She shook her head.

"I'm not doing it for you. I'm doing it for myself," Evelyn replied, prompting Derek to consider Sandra and his growing suspicion of her collaboration with Michael.

He hesitated. "There's something else you should know, but I'm not sure I should tell you." Evelyn raised an eyebrow.

"What is it?"

"Mommy, I want…" Evelyn silenced Samantha, who had just entered the bedroom, by raising a hand to her lips and muting the call. "I'm on the phone, darling. I'll be right out," she said, forcing a smile despite her racing heart.

"Who was that?" Derek asked, having heard Samantha.

"Guests," she lied. "What did you want to tell me?" she asked, hoping to redirect the conversation.

"Michael convinced my parents to set me up with Sandra. They want me to marry her," Derek confessed, his voice laced with frustration.

Evelyn's heart skipped a beat. A pang of jealousy, a feeling she resisted acknowledging, struck her. Was that the plan? Were they planning to marry Sandra to Derek for his inheritance, just as they had planned with her? she mused.

"Eve!" Derek called when she remained silent.

"What are you going to do about it? Are you going to marry her?" Evelyn asked softly.

"No. We both know I'm not interested in marrying Sandra. I only agreed because it was the condition for you not to get fired. I hoped to expose Michael quickly and avoid it, but now that I can't, I think it's best I use her to find out what they're really up to," he said. Evelyn sighed.

"Well, if that's the case, be careful. They're both cunning and good at pretending," she said, trying not to dwell on Derek's involvement with Sandra.

"You don't have to worry, Eve. I'll never fall for Sandra. You're the…"

"I'm nothing, Derek. The only thing between us is the interview, and once it's done, we'll go our separate ways," she said firmly.

Derek's jaw clenched. He wanted to tell her she belonged with him, but before he could, she hung up.

So damned stubborn, he mused, scowling at his phone. It rang; he hoped it was Evelyn calling back. It was his mother. "Hello, Mom," he answered, trying to sound more enthusiastic than he felt.

Rebecca frowned at the weariness in his voice. "You sound exhausted, darling. Did you overwork yourself?" she asked, concerned.

"Long day, but I managed. How are you, Mom? How was your day?" Derek asked.

"Good, darling. Better than good! I had lunch with Sandra today," Rebecca said excitedly.

"Oh," Derek replied flatly.

"You two will make a beautiful couple," Rebecca continued. "She's such a lovely girl. Michael was absolutely right about her. I think you two…" Derek raised an eyebrow.

He'd expected Sandra's mention, but his mother's effusive praise left him wary and even more exhausted.

"If she's won you over so completely, I look forward to meeting her," he replied lightly. His mother laughed.

"Yes! That's why I called," Rebecca said happily. Derek groaned inwardly.

"Is it? I thought you called to hear your son's lovely voice?" he joked. His mother laughed.

"I did, but I also called to say we've set a date for your date—Friday. I've instructed your secretary to make reservations," she said. Derek sighed, knowing he had little choice.

"Okay, Mom. I'll be there." Rebecca smiled.

"Make an effort, Derek. I don't want you to marry her just because I'm asking. I believe she's a nice girl and will make you happy. Don't write her off. Give her a chance. Get to know her, and I'm sure you'll fall in love."

"If she's as nice as everyone says, we'll get along. You don't have to worry," Derek replied neutrally. His mother smiled.

After some small talk, Derek hung up. Lying in bed, considering his conversations with Evelyn and his mother, a question arose: What was the exact relationship between Michael and Sandra? Why would Sandra side with Michael over her sister after their breakup? Was it natural sibling rivalry, or something more?

He called Ethan for a detective's contact, set up a meeting, and resolved to stay one step ahead of Michael and Sandra. He would uncover Michael's plans, no matter the cost, and ensure he wouldn't get away with them.