Chapter 359

Nathan's lips curved into a slow, knowing smile. "The same reason you're here, darling."

Business alliances were always about mutual interests. Their target was identical - Preston Sinclair.

Evelyn moved closer, settling into the seat beside him. His crisp bergamot cologne enveloped her senses.

Their striking presence drew admiring glances. To onlookers, they appeared as the perfect power couple.

"Mr. Blackwood, surely this matter doesn't require your personal attention?"

"And yet here you are in person, Ms. Sinclair." His voice dropped to that velvety baritone that never failed to send shivers down her spine.

Evelyn studied his profile. The usual icy composure remained, but something was... different.

Where was the broken man with bloodshot eyes from yesterday?

Why did he seem completely unaffected now?

As if sensing her scrutiny, Nathan turned. His gaze softened when it met hers. "Enjoying the view?"

Evelyn blinked, then rolled her eyes dramatically. "Your arrogance knows no bounds."

Nathan's smile deepened - a rare sight that would shock anyone who knew him.

"Feel free to look your fill. I don't mind at all."

"Someone should teach you the meaning of humility," Evelyn muttered, turning away sharply.

A rich chuckle rumbled from his chest. Oddly, he seemed delighted by her sharp tongue. Today she'd spoken more than two words to him - progress.

Nearby students gaped openly. This was the same man who'd frozen earlier intruders with a single glacial stare.

Yet now he was practically purring for Evelyn Sinclair.

Was it her beauty that melted the infamous Ice King?

While Evelyn huffed insults, Nathan absorbed every word with visible pleasure.

Their charged dynamic crackled with unspoken tension.

After ten awkward minutes, a professor entered with disappointing news. "Mr. Sinclair had to leave campus unexpectedly. You're all dismissed."

Groans filled the room as students shuffled out.

Evelyn rose with a sigh. As she reached the exit, an overeager undergrad bumped into her.

She stumbled forward - only to be caught by a familiar strong arm. She recognized the platinum watch before even looking up.

Nathan steadied her, then positioned his broad frame to block the doorway. His piercing gaze locked onto the offender with terrifying intensity.

The crowd froze. The guilty student trembled under Nathan's silent wrath.

"P-please forgive me! I didn't mean—"

Evelyn offered a conciliatory smile. "It's fine. Just be more careful."

Nathan finally stepped aside, but no one dared move until Evelyn exited first. She could feel his presence following at a respectful distance.

As they neared campus gates, Evelyn quickened her pace.

"Have lunch with me," Nathan called.

"My appetite disappears in your company."

A beat of silence. Then that infuriating smirk returned. "And who does inspire your appetite?"

Evelyn couldn't resist twisting the knife. "My new boyfriend, naturally!"

Let's see how Mr. Arrogant handles that.