Chapter 76

Dylan Lowell gripped Nathan Evans' arm tightly. "Nathan, let's talk this out!"

Julian Roscente stepped between Ethan Winston and Evelyn Langley. "Ethan, it's your birthday. Don't make a scene."

Both men's eyes burned with fury, like two enraged beasts.

"Let go!" Nathan shook off Dylan's hold.

"Back off!" Ethan shoved Julian aside.

As they moved to clash again, Dylan and Julian quickly intercepted them.

"What's going on?" Julian frowned at the pair.

"We're brothers. Don't let this ruin our friendship," Dylan urged, sweat beading on his forehead.

Julian held Nathan back. "Nathan, it's Ethan's birthday. Whatever this is, settle it another day."

Ethan wiped blood from his lip and smirked. "I meant every word. You have no right to interfere."

He turned to the pale-faced Evelyn, removing his jacket to drape over her shoulders. "You okay? I'll take you home."

Dylan and Julian exchanged stunned glances.

Ethan and Evelyn?

So this was why Nathan lost it?

Evelyn snapped back to reality, stepping away from Ethan's touch and returning his jacket.

"No need. I can go alone." Her voice was soft but firm. "I'm not some prize for you two to fight over."

She met both their gazes. "Don't contact me again."

Ethan's expression darkened. "Evelyn, I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking today."

"If you're truly sorry," she cut him off, "then stay away from me."

The fog had lifted.

This wasn't her fault.

Ethan's recklessness, Nathan's rage—none of it concerned her. She just wanted out of this circus.

But Ethan wasn't giving up.

"You can reject me," he said stubbornly, "but I have the right to pursue you."

Nathan's face turned thunderous. "Ethan Winston!"

"Truth hurts," Ethan shot back challengingly.

Evelyn turned to leave. "Enjoy your chat."

Ethan lunged forward, grabbing her shoulder—