Chapter 469

Ethan Winston lifted his teacup and took a deliberate sip, his gaze sharp as a blade.

"She grew up surrounded by love. Do you understand what that means?"

Nathan Evans' back stiffened.

"It means she loves fiercely and hates without hesitation." Each of Ethan's words drove in like a nail. "When she stood against the world for you, it wasn't impulsiveness—it was courage."

Nathan clenched his fists.

"Too bad you weren't worthy of that courage." Ethan's lips curled into a cold smile. "To people like you, she's just 'love-struck.' But I know the truth—she only wanted a love that lasted."

Nathan whirled around, eyes bloodshot. "Are you gloating?"

"Yes." Ethan didn't deny it.

The air turned to ice.

"A girl raised in that kind of family deserves pure love." Ethan lowered his gaze. "Not some calculated choice after weighing pros and cons."

A self-deprecating laugh escaped him.

Hadn't he once been just as calculating? But now, he'd give up every advantage for Evelyn Langley.

The door slammed shut with a violent crash.

Dylan Lowell and Julian Roscente pressed themselves against the wall, not daring to breathe.

"Is Nathan gonna murder someone?" Dylan gulped.

"Remove the 'maybe.'" Julian shuddered.

Ethan leisurely brewed his third pot of tea.

"Try it. This blend needs three infusions to reveal its depth."

Julian forced himself to take a sip, tasting nothing.

Dylan rubbed his round stomach. "Ethan, I seriously can't drink another drop..."

"No appreciation for the finer things." Ethan shook his head.

Dylan's eyes gleamed with mischief. "So, Ethan... you really met her parents?"

Julian perked up.

"Yeah." A faint smile touched Ethan's lips. "Just getting a head start on making a good impression."

"And?"

"It went fine." Ethan traced the rim of his cup.

Julian smacked the table. "Damn it! You called us here just to flaunt your relationship?"

Ethan hid his smirk behind another sip of tea.

Meanwhile, Nathan stormed into his office.

"List every project we have with Ethan Winston!" His voice was raw.

His trembling assistant handed over the files.

"Terminate them all." Nathan signed the documents with red-rimmed eyes.