Chapter 279

"Nathan, let me help with your tie."

"I'm wearing a black shirt today."

Chloe Valentine's fingers froze midair, confusion flashing in her eyes. "I know."

Nathan Evans closed his eyes briefly.

A black shirt paired with a floral tie.

Only she could come up with such a combination.

He raised a hand to stop her. "Don't force it if you don't know how."

Without another glance, he walked away.

......

Late at night, Nathan exited the corporate building after a marathon meeting.

Sliding into the driver's seat, he lit a cigarette.

Smoke curled around him as the engine remained silent.

Only when the burning tip seared his fingertips did he finally stub it out.

The luxury car drifted aimlessly through neon-lit streets.

Margaret Evans' call went straight to voicemail.

Somehow, he found himself turning into that familiar narrow alley again.

"Damn rich kids think they can park anywhere!"

"Why do fancy cars keep showing up here lately?"

"Didn't a Bentley come through last week?"

......

At precisely 8 PM, Evelyn Langley appeared at the apartment entrance.

Nathan watched greedily through tinted windows.

Today she wore a teal blue sundress.

Her hair now brushed her shoulder blades, swaying gently with each step.

Flip-flops slapped against concrete as she walked.

Nathan pushed open the car door.

A figure blocked his path.

Adrian Klein stood with one hand in his pocket. "Fancy meeting you here, Mr. Evans."

"Move!"

Seeing Evelyn about to disappear inside, Nathan's voice turned urgent.

Adrian didn't budge.

Only when the blue silhouette vanished did he finally step aside.

"You think the Klein name gives you rights to interfere?"

"Stalking your ex, Mr. Evans?"

"None of your damn business!"

Adrian's expression remained calm. "Reporting illegal activity is every citizen's duty."

Nathan's laugh came out sharp. "Playing righteous now?"

"What if I have ulterior motives?"

Adrian met his glare without flinching.

"You're nothing! How many years have I known her?"

"Time was never the measure of love."

Adrian's quiet words cut like knives. "Some recognize soulmates at first glance. Others spend lifetimes together as strangers."

Each syllable tightened the vise around Nathan's chest.

"Blocking me won't give you a chance. Dream on!"

"I simply want her left in peace."

Turning away, Adrian delivered his parting shot: "She's happy now."

From the alley entrance came angry shouts.

Several elderly men advanced with brooms raised like weapons.

Gritting his teeth, Nathan slammed the accelerator.

"Dylan, let's grab drinks."

Deafening club music blasted through the phone.

Dylan Lowell shouted over the noise: "Julian's here too!"