Chapter 453

Marcus's expression turned dangerously dark as he trailed behind them. His piercing glare at Teddy Winslow could have melted steel. If Teddy hadn't been walking so close to Evelyn Sinclair, Marcus would have already taught him a painful lesson.

Evelyn's phone kept buzzing incessantly with notifications. She glanced at the screen to see messages from Isabella Montgomery flooding in. [Why haven't you responded? Are you actually dating Preston Sinclair?!] Evelyn ignored the text, shocked to find over two hundred unread messages and alerts.

What in the world? Why is everyone suddenly obsessed with Preston? [Sebastian Hart: Are you really involved with Preston? Ready to become a stepmother? I only want your happiness, but perhaps you should reconsider Nathan Blackwood.] [Natalie Beaumont: Preston isn't a terrible choice, but don't take it too seriously! Older men can't compete with younger studs, right?] [Lucas Sterling: Are you abandoning your collection of admirers? The entire entertainment industry is at your feet - think carefully!] [Alexander Sterling: Money talks. What use are emotions?] [Donovan Sterling: Not only does rain increase microbial growth risks, but damp clothing provides ideal conditions for bacterial colonization. Your outfit's fabric appears particularly susceptible.] [Emily Whitaker: Wow Evelyn! You look absolutely breathtaking!] Evelyn frowned as she scrolled through the barrage of messages.

She couldn't believe the overreaction. It's just one photograph!

Coincidentally, Isabella called. Evelyn answered with practiced ease. "Evie! Do you actually have feelings for Preston Sinclair? Even if Nathan Blackwood isn't right for you, why not stay single?" Evelyn couldn't help but laugh.

She arched an eyebrow and responded nonchalantly as she continued walking, "It's merely a photo! You're all making a mountain out of a molehill."

"What? So it's not true? Then why would you pose like that? I thought you were announcing your relationship just to provoke Nathan."

"There are countless ways to annoy Nathan - why would I sacrifice myself for that?" That was a valid point. Isabella nodded in agreement, visibly relaxing.

"Well, that's a relief. Everyone assumes you're dating Preston. Honestly, he's not a bad option - his qualifications rival Nathan's, except for the whole... existing child situation."

"Nothing of the sort exists, so stop this nonsense. I'll simply delete the photo to avoid further complications."

"Perfect! I'll spread the word so everyone shuts up about it!" Isabella added cheerfully, "But between us, you two look incredible together! Romantic movies couldn't create better chemistry! Preston's devastatingly handsome. He seems like decent husband material too."

Evelyn chuckled lightly. "Should I introduce him to you then?"

"Absolutely not! I could never handle a man like that."

Isabella lacked the confidence for such an endeavor. Even Evelyn with her formidable intellect had struggled with Nathan Blackwood. Isabella preferred the safety of arranged high-society marriages. "But why did you agree to travel with Nathan? His intentions are clearly less than honorable."

Evelyn explained, "Father wanted to attend and insisted I join. Besides, we have multi-billion dollar projects underway - no need for unnecessary tension." Isabella was rendered speechless.

She suddenly felt petty for focusing on romantic entanglements. How shallow! In the face of such wealth, everyone should reconcile and collaborate. Isabella realized she'd underestimated her best friend. Evelyn wouldn't fall for someone so easily. Every public appearance was a strategic business move.

She sighed. "Alright then. I see now the gap between us is vast. I need to work harder to reach your level!" Isabella consoled herself.

Evelyn replied, "Better late than never."