Chapter 372

Evelyn Sinclair stepped out of the corporate lobby to find Oliver Sinclair striking a pose against the side of a sleek limousine. His tiny hands were tucked into the pockets of his miniature suit, his golden curls catching the afternoon sunlight.

Those sapphire eyes sparkled with mischief as he scanned the crowd. Every woman passing by couldn't help but coo at the sight of him. This little heartbreaker was going to devastate hearts when he grew up.

The moment Oliver spotted Evelyn, his entire face lit up. He dashed toward her with outstretched arms, nearly tripping over his own feet in excitement. "Muse! I missed you soooo much!" His voice was pure sugar as he buried his face against her thigh.

Evelyn's stern expression melted instantly. There was something about this child that bypassed all her defenses. She crouched down to his level, unable to resist ruffling his soft curls. "I missed you too, my little prince."

Oliver proudly presented a velvet box with both hands. "I brought you a present!"

Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "What's the occasion?"

"A party!" Oliver bounced on his toes. "Daddy said I could invite you! There'll be cake and music and—" He lowered his voice conspiratorially, "—I told all my friends about how you're the prettiest lady in the whole world."

Evelyn hesitated. The memory of Preston Sinclair's intense gaze during their brief encounter sent an involuntary shiver down her spine. The man radiated danger wrapped in an Armani suit.

Oliver's lower lip trembled. "Please? I picked out your dress myself!"

Curiosity won out. Evelyn opened the box and gasped. Nestled in silk was an exquisite champagne-colored gown that seemed to shimmer even in shadow. The intricate beadwork formed delicate floral patterns that would catch the light with every movement.

"This is..." Evelyn traced a finger along the delicate fabric. Even without a label, she recognized couture craftsmanship when she saw it.

Oliver beamed. "Do you like it? Mrs. Winslow helped me choose!"

"It's breathtaking."

The little gentleman performed an exaggerated bow before opening the limo door. "Your chariot awaits, my lady!"

The interior was a child's fantasy—plush leather seats surrounded by limited-edition action figures and a mini fridge stocked with juice boxes. A discreet partition separated them from the driver.

Twenty minutes later, they arrived at The Regal Grand. The hotel entrance was eerily quiet, with security barricades blocking the street. A guard moved to intercept them until he recognized Oliver, then immediately stepped aside with a respectful nod.

Evelyn arched a brow. "Quite the security for a children's party."

Oliver just giggled, dragging her toward the elevators.

The transformation was magical. The gown hugged Evelyn's curves perfectly, the delicate fabric flowing like liquid gold. When she emerged from the dressing room, Oliver's jaw actually dropped.

He clutched his cheeks, starry-eyed. "You look like a real-life princess!"

Evelyn laughed as he twirled around her, inspecting every angle.

"I mean it!" Oliver declared solemnly. "When I grow up, I'm going to marry you!"

Evelyn tapped his nose. "And what if I say yes right now?"

Oliver's eyes widened in panic. "No no no! Daddy says I have to finish school first!"

The sound of approaching footsteps made them both turn. Preston Sinclair stood in the doorway, his dark gaze sweeping over Evelyn with undisguised appreciation.

"Trouble," Oliver whispered dramatically. "Daddy's here."

Evelyn's breath caught. The way Preston looked at her—like she was the only woman in the world—sent heat rushing to her cheeks.

Oliver tugged her hand. "Don't worry, Muse. I'll protect you from his scary face."

Preston's lips quirked. "Shall we, princess?" He offered his arm to Evelyn while Oliver proudly claimed her other hand.

As they walked toward the ballroom, Evelyn realized two things simultaneously:

First, this was definitely not a children's party.

Second, she was in way over her head.