Chapter 293

Harrison trailed behind Nathan Blackwood, struggling with the heavy suitcase.

The cold aura radiating from his boss made him hesitate before speaking up.

"Sir, your phone..." Harrison's voice trembled slightly.

The driver, Bennett, watched in horror as Nathan nearly crushed the expensive device in his grip.

Recognizing Evelyn Sinclair's number, Nathan dialed a random contact instead.

This was the property of N?-velDrama.Org.

After saving her life, Nathan expected some change between them.

But Evelyn hung up the moment she heard his voice. His expression darkened as he deleted the call history and tossed the phone back.

Harrison quickly returned the phone to Bennett before catching up with Nathan's long strides.

"Sir, Mr. von Strauss invited you to the soft opening of his gallery restaurant tonight at Sterling Manor."

Meanwhile, Evelyn twirled before her dressing room mirror, humming as she selected an outfit for tonight's gala.

This marked her first public appearance since returning.

Perfection was non-negotiable.

Nathan's call barely registered - just another nuisance.

She'd show her gratitude, but never herself!

In the living room, Lucas Sterling groaned as Evelyn modeled her fifth ensemble.

At this rate, she'd try on every new collection this season. "I suddenly miss my film set," he muttered.

William Sterling arrived with a velvet box containing a breathtaking pink diamond necklace.

Each stone was rare and exquisitely cut.

It complemented the blush silk gown hugging Evelyn's curves perfectly.

Her cascading waves framed the delicate jewelry.

The harmonious combination satisfied Evelyn immensely.

Understated yet stunning - exactly her style. Lucas narrowed his eyes.

"Isn't that meant for your future daughter-in-law?" he challenged.

William rolled his eyes. "Only blind women would settle for you."

"So this belongs to my future sister-in-law?" Lucas scoffed at his father's disdain.

Evelyn blinked innocently. "Lucas, this design isn't reserved for in-laws. You should feel threatened."

He choked on his retort.

As Lucas stood to accompany her, Evelyn stopped him. "I already have an escort."

"Who?" William and Lucas demanded simultaneously.

"Adrian Blackwood. My island rescuer."

Lucas relaxed.

According to his sister's usual tastes, the adventurous type wouldn't stand a chance. William nodded approvingly.

"Very well. Have Archibald drive you." The butler smiled, already preparing the car.

No way would they let Evelyn drive herself looking this radiant.

As twilight painted the sky, city lights flickered to life.

Adrian Blackwood stood waiting in a tailored suit, drawing admiring glances.

The exclusive event's minimalist decor reflected von Strauss' signature style.

While Adrian ordered refreshments, Evelyn explored the gallery.

One painting stopped her cold.

The striking image of a woman in red - unmistakably Evelyn - supporting an unconscious Nathan through darkness toward light.

Her breath caught.

"Enjoying your portrait?" Friedrich von Strauss appeared behind her.

"Of course," Evelyn recovered smoothly. "Not everyone possesses such beauty."

The artist snorted, studying his work. "That restaurant photo inspired this."

Evelyn's smile faded. "Name your price. I want this painting."

"Not for sale!" von Strauss refused sharply.

As Evelyn prepared to argue, she sensed intense scrutiny.

Nathan stood nearby, his piercing gaze fixed on the painting - and her.

Their eyes met.

Her pulse quickened.

The sudden movement startled everyone in the room.

Evelyn Sinclair's breath hitched as she instinctively stepped back.

Nathan Blackwood's protective arm shot out, shielding her from whatever threat had emerged.

Vanessa Holloway's shrill scream pierced the air, her manicured hands flying to her mouth.

"Who the hell—?" Harrison, Nathan's assistant, moved swiftly toward the disturbance.

The heavy velvet curtains billowed violently as a figure tumbled through the open window.

Glass shattered across the marble floor of Highland Estates' grand parlor.

Evelyn's pulse raced as she recognized the intruder's familiar silhouette.

"Sebastian?" Her voice trembled with disbelief.

Sebastian Hart rolled to his feet, his expensive suit torn at the shoulder.

His usually impeccable hair was disheveled, sweat glistening on his forehead.

"You have to get out of here—now!" He gasped, clutching his side.

Nathan's expression darkened. "Explain yourself, Hart."

Before Sebastian could respond, the sound of approaching vehicles echoed from outside.

Red and blue lights flashed through the broken window, painting the walls in eerie hues.

Evelyn's stomach dropped. "Police?"

Vanessa's laughter rang out, sharp and triumphant. "Oh, this is perfect."

Isabella Montgomery grabbed Evelyn's arm. "We need to leave through the back."

Nathan's phone buzzed urgently. Harrison checked the screen, his face paling.

"Sir, it's Kingsley Tech. Their servers just went dark."

Dominic Kingsley's voice crackled through the speaker. "We've been hacked. All our files—"

The line went dead.

Evelyn met Nathan's gaze, realization dawning.

This wasn't just an attack.

It was a carefully orchestrated takedown.

And they were standing right in the crosshairs.

The front door burst open with a thunderous crash.

"Freeze! FBI!"

Evelyn barely had time to register the armed agents swarming the room before Nathan shoved her behind a marble pillar.

Gunfire erupted.

Screams.

Chaos.

Through the smoke and confusion, one horrifying truth became clear—

Someone had framed them.

And unless they acted fast, they'd both be spending the night in federal custody.

Nathan's lips brushed her ear as he pulled her toward a hidden passage.

"Trust me?"

Evelyn didn't hesitate.

She grabbed his hand and ran.