Chapter 459

Oliver Sinclair thought fiercely, No one can take my Muse away, not even Father!

When Nathan Blackwood saw the boy's protective stance, a warm, indulgent smile curved his lips.

Strangely, Nathan found Oliver less irritating than usual.

"Mr. Sinclair, don't be upset. Your son takes after you," Teddy Winslow remarked dryly.

Before Preston Sinclair could respond, Oliver grabbed Evelyn Sinclair's hand and stormed off in a huff.

Evelyn let the boy drag her to a quiet corner of the hotel lobby, where he finally stopped, cheeks flushed.

"Muse," Oliver panted, blinking his sapphire-blue eyes innocently, "Out of the three of us, who treats you the best?"

Evelyn blinked. Three? Oliver, Nathan, and Preston? Men?

She bit back a laugh at the absurdity but humored him. "Of course it's you, sweetheart."

Oliver beamed, puffing his chest proudly. "I knew it! Those two are old, grumpy, and boring. They can't compete with me!"

Evelyn nodded solemnly. "Absolutely right."

Oliver shyly took her hand. "Then... wait for me to grow up. We'll be together forever!"

Evelyn couldn't help but laugh, pinching his soft cheek. "Alright, I'll wait."

Oliver threw his arms around her, nuzzling into her palm like an affectionate kitten.

Later, Evelyn led him back to the group as if nothing had happened.

William Sterling was thoroughly enjoying the trip. After Preston left that afternoon, Evelyn suggested changing destinations.

"Costa Azul," she declared.

No one objected. They departed the same day.

Costa Azul was perfect for surfing, but Evelyn's mood soured whenever Nathan and Teddy were nearby.

The next evening, a cool breeze swept through the resort.

Nathan owned the hotel they were staying at, so it had been cleared out before their arrival. William went to mingle with locals while the others stayed behind.

Evelyn stepped out of the elevator in a soft apricot sundress, radiant under the golden lobby lights.

Nathan was in the lounge, reviewing quarterly reports with the manager. His gaze snapped up when he saw her.

"Going out?" he asked.

Evelyn nodded. "There's a party."

She walked toward the entrance without another word. Nathan's lips thinned.

Before he could ask where, a sleek Porsche pulled up.

The driver stepped out—Preston Sinclair.

Nathan's eyes darkened dangerously. He wheeled himself forward just as Preston opened the car door for Evelyn like a perfect gentleman.

Preston paused when he noticed Nathan. "Mr. Blackwood."

Though seated, Nathan's presence was no less commanding. His voice was ice. "Mr. Sinclair. What a... coincidence."

First he leaves, now he's back? Nathan thought irritably. Preston had always been a wild card, capable of ruining his mood instantly.

A sudden gust of wind tore Evelyn's silk scarf from her shoulders, sending it fluttering to Nathan's feet.

He bent to retrieve it—just as Preston grabbed the other end.

Their eyes met, a silent battle of wills.

Neither let go.

The air between them crackled with tension.