Chapter 374

The butler standing behind them trembled violently, but it was too late to retreat now.

He had nearly forgotten that this particular young master wasn't someone easily deceived! What a disastrous oversight! Lawrence Whitmore nudged the butler impatiently.

"Hurry up! We can't let Evelyn Sinclair get there first!" The butler clenched his teeth, forced to usher them inside first.

Every employee working for Preston Sinclair recognized the butler instantly. When he escorted these two uninvited guests, no one dared ask for invitations.

The waiter who remained hesitated. "Mr. Sinclair only requested to admit Young Master and Ms. Sterling. He didn't mention anyone else."

The butler's expression darkened. "Ridiculous! I'm the head of this household! Mr. Sinclair won't blame me. I'll take full responsibility."

With that, he guided Lawrence and Damian Whitmore into the lavishly decorated banquet hall. The standard hotel furnishings had been completely replaced with the most exquisite decor for this exclusive event. Clearly, Preston Sinclair had spared no expense.

When Nathan Blackwood saw Evelyn entering hand-in-hand with the little boy, his steps faltered momentarily. Surprise flickered across his features. The car he'd sent to fetch Evelyn must have arrived empty since she was already here.

Strangely, Nathan felt both relieved and inexplicably pleased. Of course. My girl never admits defeat. She always finds her own way in.

Evelyn froze momentarily upon spotting Nathan, then deliberately averted her gaze, pretending not to notice him. Nathan caught the deliberate snub and nearly chuckled at her stubbornness.

Little Oliver excitedly tugged Evelyn's hand, pulling her forward. "Daddy! I brought Muse here!" The four industry titans present all showed varying degrees of surprise at Evelyn's appearance, their eyes reflecting admiration—especially Nathan's.

Evelyn typically dazzled at such events in bold, avant-garde designs that commanded attention, as if born for the spotlight. Yet tonight's understated gown accentuated her natural elegance perfectly, the delicate fabric skimming her waistline to create an ethereal vision of grace.

For a fleeting moment, Nathan entertained the selfish thought of keeping her hidden away from prying eyes.

Preston Sinclair maintained his usual aloof demeanor, though even he couldn't hide his momentary astonishment at Evelyn's transformation. Rising smoothly, he extended his hand courteously.

"What a pleasant surprise, Ms. Sterling. You're my most honored guest tonight."

The others immediately stood to exchange greetings, reassessing their assumptions about Sterling Corporation's standing. They'd written off the company, never expecting its CEO to make such a dramatic last-minute entrance.

Evelyn's lips curved into a practiced smile. "Mr. Sinclair, the pleasure is entirely mine."

Preston chuckled lowly, casting an amused glance at the beaming child clinging to Evelyn's side. "Has this little troublemaker been pestering you terribly these past few days?"

Evelyn gently ruffled Oliver's hair. "Not at all! Oliver's been an absolute delight. My entire family adores him."

The boy preened, wrapping his arms around Evelyn's waist possessively, his eyes crinkling with happiness. "I adore you too, Muse!" This child never missed an opportunity to declare his affection.

Nathan's gaze darkened as he observed Preston and his son. The trio looked disturbingly harmonious together. An irrational urge to whisk Evelyn away surged through him.

Amid the lighthearted moment, the butler approached with noticeable hesitation. His eyes darted toward Evelyn before quickly looking away, as if afraid to meet her gaze. "Mr. Sinclair, there's something—" He cut himself off abruptly.

Preston didn't miss the butler's furtive behavior. His expression cooled slightly as he addressed the group. "Please excuse me briefly. Enjoy yourselves."

Evelyn exhaled quietly, relief washing over her. Who could have predicted that the adorable child she'd met by chance at the amusement park would turn out to be Preston Sinclair's son? Without this fortuitous connection, she'd never have gained entry tonight.

Nathan moved closer, his rich baritone voice brushing against the back of Evelyn's neck. "So you've met before? When exactly was your first encounter?"