Chapter 417

Evelyn Sinclair offered a polite smile. "Thank you, but I'll be heading upstairs first."

"Of course, Ms. Sinclair!"

She was midway up the grand staircase when Marcus opened the double doors. A quick glance over her shoulder revealed Nathan Blackwood entering the foyer.

Theodore "Teddy" Winslow practically vibrated with excitement as he greeted Nathan, his burgundy silk apron fluttering with each enthusiastic movement. "Mr. Blackwood! A man of your stature who works tirelessly yet maintains such impeccable charm is truly—"

"—the perfect match for Ms. Sinclair!" Teddy continued without pausing for breath. "Honestly, I'm at a loss for words to describe how perfectly suited you two are!"

Marcus had been following Evelyn upstairs but froze at Teddy's declaration. The bodyguard turned slowly, his scarred face twisting in contemplation.

"I believe there's only one appropriate description," Marcus rumbled.

Teddy's eyes sparkled with delight. This marked the first time Marcus had voluntarily continued a conversation—a promising development in their budding camaraderie. "Do tell!"

"A relentless warrior," Marcus stated with complete sincerity.

Evelyn's lips twitched with suppressed amusement.

Nathan's already stormy expression darkened further.

Marcus, utterly unaware of any offense, simply strode past to resume his position behind Evelyn.

Teddy stood paralyzed, suddenly aware of the icy atmosphere thickening around Nathan. He mentally kicked himself for seeking validation from the socially oblivious bodyguard. What a catastrophic miscalculation!

Nathan's piercing gaze traveled up the staircase, causing Evelyn to quickly school her features. "I became this warrior because of her!" Nathan muttered under his breath. "And she dares to laugh? Heartless woman!"

Clearing her throat, Evelyn offered, "Mr. Blackwood is an exceptional leader overseeing thousands of employees. Naturally, he can't afford to be careless."

Their eyes met. Nathan's stern expression softened momentarily before curling into a smile, the storm in his eyes replaced by warmth. "Evelyn, your perception is as sharp as ever."

Nathan felt like he'd been dipped in liquid sunshine—every inch of him glowing with the sweetness of her rare praise. So this was how she truly saw him?

Evelyn exhaled quietly. Remarkable how easily placated this powerful man could be with just a few empty words.

Teddy observed the exchange with fascination. I've been saying similar compliments for months! Why does it only matter when it comes from Ms. Sinclair? Is this the infamous power of love?

Marcus, interpreting Evelyn's words as criticism of his earlier remark, approached Nathan with solemn determination. "Mr. Blackwood, would you like assistance bathing?"

The mansion fell deathly silent.

Teddy's eye developed a nervous twitch as he alternated between Marcus's earnest face and Nathan's glacial expression. Suddenly, last night's events became crystal clear. My carefully cultivated peace has been destroyed!

Evelyn arched an eyebrow at Nathan's apoplectic expression and wisely retreated to her room without comment.

Moments later, her phone rang. Preston Sinclair's calm voice came through. "Evelyn, I'd like you to accompany me to a private networking event. I've uncovered a lead regarding your car accident—the person responsible will be in attendance tonight."

"Absolutely," Evelyn agreed without hesitation. "I'll leave immediately."

Having arrived at Highland Estates without formal attire, Evelyn selected an emerald green gown from the dressing room that accentuated her striking features.

As she exited her chambers, Nathan coincidentally emerged from his study. His breath caught at the vision before him—Evelyn transformed into an ethereal beauty that made his pulse race.