Chapter 467

Evelyn Sinclair's words caught in her throat as she noticed Victoria Ashford slipping away in her peripheral vision.

The sight of Victoria scurrying upstairs with Nathan Blackwood's suit jacket draped over her shoulders was almost comical in its desperation.

No one else seemed to notice the pathetic display.

Evelyn turned her attention back to Nathan, her expression carefully composed. His dark eyes were unreadable pools of ink.

A dull ache bloomed in her chest, but she inhaled deeply. When the pain subsided, she spoke in a measured tone. "Nathan Blackwood, I don't want to torment you."

Her voice was feather-light yet firm. "I want us both to find peace. During this time apart, I've reflected deeply on our relationship."

She met his gaze steadily. "Thank you for everything you've done for me. But I'm sorry - I can't imagine us together again."

Nathan's face turned to stone.

His entire body tensed, fingers whitening as they gripped the wheelchair armrests. Evelyn felt a fleeting pang of sympathy, but it vanished as quickly as it came.

This clean break was necessary.

Better to sever ties completely than remain entangled in this painful dance. Their time together had given her clarity - she didn't miss Nathan, but rather pitied her younger self for accepting less than she deserved.

Seeing the raw emotion in Nathan's eyes made her chest constrict.

Evelyn lowered her lashes briefly before looking up with a practiced smile. "It's getting late. Thank you for tonight - I'll head back now."

She rose gracefully to leave.

"Evelyn." His voice stopped her, rough with emotion. "You're really rejecting me? I won't accept that."

His gaze burned into hers. "No matter what you say, I'm not giving up. Whether you want me to or not, I'll keep waiting."

Evelyn departed without farewells.

Nathan watched her go, his body rigid. Only when she disappeared did he realize he'd been holding his breath. Cold sweat dampened his shirt as he slumped back in the wheelchair.

Evelyn informed Preston Sinclair of her early departure.

The night air felt refreshing as she began walking toward The Grandeur hotel. The crisp breeze helped clear her turbulent thoughts.

Footsteps approached from behind.

"Mr. Sinclair?" Evelyn turned in surprise. "The event isn't over yet, is it?"

Preston smiled, not even winded from his quick pursuit. His composure remained impeccable. "It's no trouble. I couldn't let a lady walk alone at night."

"A lady?" The old-fashioned term made her lips twitch. "Well then, thank you for the escort, Mr. Sinclair."

"The pleasure is mine."

His eyes sparkled with genuine warmth as they fell into step together. "Mr. Blackwood certainly planned a memorable trip. Though I suspect this marks its conclusion?"

Evelyn considered his question seriously before laughing. "The real pity would be missing profitable opportunities."

"Quite right." Preston nodded approvingly. Business always came first for them.

They walked through the neon-lit streets, the evening breeze playing with Evelyn's hair.

Preston watched her profile soften in the ambient light. "Ms. Sinclair," he ventured, "have you considered... starting anew? With me?"