Chapter 428

Nathan Blackwood had given Theodore Winslow an impossible task before retiring for the night. He demanded immediate improvement in his strained relationship with Evelyn Sinclair.

Teddy burned the midnight oil, finally devising what he considered a brilliant strategy. The timing couldn't be more perfect - William Sterling's birthday celebration was just around the corner.

Evelyn hadn't brought many belongings when she temporarily moved into Highland Estates, so her departure was light and effortless. She practically skipped to the door, waving cheerfully at Nathan.

"Finally! Freedom!" Evelyn twirled in delight, imagining weeks without Nathan's constant presence. Nathan watched her go with deceptive calmness, his expression shifting to icy intensity the moment the door closed behind her.

"Everything prepared?" Nathan's voice cut through the silence. Teddy straightened his tie with confidence. "Absolutely, sir. Win over Mr. Sterling, and you'll be dining with the Sterlings regularly before you know it."

Nathan's lips twitched almost imperceptibly, the closest he ever came to smiling. Teddy continued his enthusiastic pitch. "A man of your caliber? Distinguished lineage, impeccable manners, business acumen - you're practically royalty! Mr. Sterling would be a fool not to-"

"Enough." Nathan's sharp command silenced Teddy instantly. The assistant scurried off to make final preparations. William Sterling had chosen an intimate yet opulent celebration - a sunset cruise aboard his private yacht in San Francisco Bay.

Only close family, friends, and select business associates received invitations. Alexander and Lucas Sterling were busy welcoming guests when Donovan Sterling made his rare public appearance. True to her word, Evelyn had extended an invitation to Emily Whitaker, who arrived practically vibrating with excitement.

William and Donovan were deep in conversation when Evelyn arrived with Emily in tow. Donovan's eyebrows lifted slightly at the sight of the young scientist - not conventionally beautiful like Evelyn, but radiating an earnest intelligence that was equally compelling.

Emily immediately launched into animated conversation with Donovan while Evelyn guided her father through the gathering. Holding a champagne flute, Evelyn moved through the crowd with practiced grace, her polite smile never wavering.

"That Sloan project was quite the coup, Ms. Sterling," a business associate remarked. "We're all green with envy."

Evelyn lowered her lashes demurely. "Just fortunate timing."

"Nonsense," William interjected proudly. "Pure talent and hard work." Evelyn shot her father an exasperated look before laughing, her face transforming with genuine amusement.

This was the scene that greeted Nathan when he boarded - Evelyn radiant with laughter, surrounded by admirers. Tristan Whitmore, following behind, noticed Nathan's transfixed expression.

"See something interesting?" Tristan followed Nathan's gaze and smirked. "Ah. The yacht's decor is quite... impressive."

Nathan ignored the jab. "The vessel is adequate." Tristan rolled his eyes. Who was Nathan trying to fool?

Evelyn's smile froze when she spotted Nathan on deck. "Why is he here?" she hissed to her father.

"I invited him," William replied calmly. Tristan wheeled Nathan forward. Even seated, Nathan commanded attention - his broad shoulders and imposing presence making the wheelchair irrelevant. No one dared comment on his injury.

"Happy birthday, Mr. Sterling." Nathan's voice was smooth as aged whiskey.

William nodded, his expression warmer than usual. "Thank you. How's the recovery progressing?" After all, Nathan's injuries were sustained protecting Evelyn.

Nathan's gaze locked onto Evelyn. "Your daughter has been... exceptionally attentive. I'm recovering well, thank you."

Evelyn barely suppressed an eye roll. The man was utterly shameless.