Chapter 384

The trio made their grand entrance into the luxury shopping mall.

Isabella Montgomery never hesitated when it came to shopping. Within minutes, she'd selected an armful of designer items, swiping her black card without a second thought before instructing the staff to deliver everything directly to her penthouse.

Meanwhile, Evelyn Sinclair slipped into a dressing room to try on outfits. Little Oliver Sinclair dragged a velvet stool in front of the three-way mirror, perching eagerly with sparkling eyes.

"Oh Muse! You're absolutely radiant!" Oliver gasped, clasping his cheeks. "That emerald silk was made for you! No mortal could wear it better!" He spun dramatically. "Are you sure you're not an enchanted princess? The way that fabric shimmers when you move—it's pure magic!"

Evelyn's laughter echoed through the boutique as she twirled, thoroughly charmed by the boy's theatrics. With a careless wave, she purchased the entire collection.

From the back, Isabella's jaw dropped.

Unbelievable! That little charmer had a silver tongue sharper than any salesman—yet he reserved every honeyed word exclusively for Evelyn!

The boutique staff stood awkwardly by, their prepared compliments dying on their lips. Would corporate dock their commissions for failing to upsell?

At the Aquarium of Montecito

After their shopping spree, Oliver begged to visit the city's famed aquarium. Though he maintained a private marine exhibit at his father's Mediterranean villa, this facility housed rare species even his collection lacked.

Evelyn and Isabella exchanged glances at the "CLOSED" sign barring the entrance.

"Looks like we'll have to come back tomorrow," Isabella said with poorly concealed satisfaction.

Oliver's cherubic face darkened with determination. He pulled out his diamond-encrusted phone. "Daddy will make them open for us. Daddy can do anything!"

Evelyn intercepted the call. "Let me handle this, sweetheart."

As their hostess, one call to Bennett secured immediate access. Within minutes, the massive glass doors slid open, revealing a nervous-looking marine biologist.

"President Sterling! What an unexpected honor," the man stammered, bowing slightly. "We're actually undergoing maintenance today, but for you..."

Isabella shook her head in disbelief. Yet another reminder that in their world, closed doors simply didn't exist.

Blackwood Enterprises Headquarters

Harrison knocked twice before entering Nathan Blackwood's office. The CEO didn't glance up from the contract he was annotating.

"Speak."

Harrison cleared his throat. "Bennett just called regarding Ms. Sterling. She's visiting our aquarium facility today during its closure."

Nathan's fountain pen stilled. He lifted his gaze, mercury eyes sharpening.

Harrison continued hastily, "I've already approved the request, of course. But given your... interest in Ms. Sterling's activities..."

Nathan stood abruptly, his tailored suit accentuating his imposing frame. "How's that aquarium performing?"

"It was named California's top tourist attraction last quarter," Harrison reported. "Media outlets call it a 'bucket-list experience.' We limit to eighty visitors daily with reservations booked three months out."

A noncommittal hum was Nathan's only response. Such achievements barely registered on Blackwood Enterprises' scale.

As Nathan strode toward the door, Harrison ventured, "Shall I have the director prepare a full report?"

"Unnecessary." The words sliced through the air like winter wind as Nathan disappeared into the private elevator.