Chapter 336

Evelyn Sinclair opted for effortless athleisure wear with minimal makeup. Yet nothing could dim her radiant aura.

Her poise remained regal, her confidence unshaken. Ethan Caldwell gave her a casual wave while Julian Moreau approached for a polite embrace. Sophia Laurent stood out in her sequined cocktail dress, looking every inch the red carpet starlet.

Her smile was cautious this time, a marked contrast to her previous arrogance. "Evelyn, it's been too long," she offered.

Evelyn responded with perfect neutrality - neither warm nor cold. Her gaze lingered curiously on Sophia's outfit. "This is an adventure show," she thought. "Why is she dressed for a gala? Does she think the audience won't notice?"

But she kept silent. This wasn't her circus, and Sophia certainly wasn't her monkey.

As the last participants arrived, the director began his lengthy briefing, switching on the live feed. Even Adrian Blackwood tapped his foot impatiently.

Finally, an assistant whispered in the director's ear. Clearing his throat, the man announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, we have a last-minute change. Our title sponsor for this episode has changed hands. The new investor now owns the program's copyright."

Adrian's jaw dropped. "What? How? I wasn't informed!" The producer had personally secured the original backers, yet someone had swooped in without his knowledge.

The director merely smiled. "Patience, Adrian. The surprise is worth waiting for."

The crew erupted in applause as he continued, "Please welcome our mystery guest and new sole sponsor - Mr. Nathan Blackwood!"

Deafening silence filled the studio. All eyes swung between the emerging Nathan Blackwood and Sophia, whose clapping echoed awkwardly in the quiet space.

The group collectively ignored Sophia's desperate performance. Adrian rushed forward, flustered. "Uncle? What are you doing here?"

Julian and Ethan maintained perfect poker faces, wisely avoiding the brewing storm. Evelyn barely suppressed an eye roll. "You've got to be kidding me," she muttered.

The live chat exploded:

[OMG! Most awkward entrance ever!]

[Mr. Blackwood supporting his nephew - so sweet!]

[Look at Sophia trying so hard. Cringe!]

[Queen Evelyn staying unbothered as always!]

[This episode's gonna be fire! So much drama!]

[You got this, Diva!]

Nathan strode forward, utterly unfazed by the tension. His expression softened, though his commanding presence remained.

Backstage, Harrison had risked his neck with advice. "Sir, you might want to smile more for Ms. Sinclair."

Nathan had scoffed. "Lions don't concern themselves with sheep. I'll win Evelyn my way."