Chapter 473

Evelyn Sinclair's lips curled into a self-satisfied smirk. She gave a subtle nod to the attendees before casting a pointed glance at Sebastian Hart.

"Mr. Hart, your sudden expansion into this business venture is quite... unexpected, isn't it?" Her voice carried just enough edge to make Sebastian shift uncomfortably.

Without this intervention, Preston Sinclair would have been forced to cover his grandiose promises from his own accounts.

The two titans of industry sat at the front. The signing ceremony proceeded with efficient solemnity, devoid of unnecessary fanfare.

This time, the spotlight wasn't on Sebastian as the organizer. All eyes naturally gravitated toward him.

Evelyn positioned herself beside Nathan Blackwood, effortlessly commanding attention as always.

The crowd surrounding Preston and Nathan consisted of those seeking favor, creating a stark contrast to Evelyn and Nathan's circle.

Preston and Nathan maintained composed expressions as they observed the other side. Both men couldn't shake the uncomfortable realization that they were essentially aiding their romantic rival.

During the reception's midpoint...

Evelyn's brow furrowed when she noticed Nathan's limping approach. She moved forward to intercept him.

"Mr. Blackwood, surely you could have sent a representative if mobility is an issue for you."

Nathan's eyebrows twitched almost imperceptibly.

"I wanted to personally inquire when you'll be returning to Highland Estates."

Their original agreement stipulated she would remain until his full recovery.

Evelyn paused momentarily, the corners of her mouth lifting in a calculated smile.

"I believe my presence would be inappropriate now. Doesn't Ms. Ashford attend to your needs, Mr. Blackwood? Should I return to Highland Estates, I fear the entire Blackwood clan might skin me alive!"

Nathan's expression darkened instantly at the mention of that name.

The Blackwood family's intentions had become transparent. Evelyn was far too perceptive not to recognize their scheme.

"There's no possibility of anyone but you becoming my wife. No one else holds that power."

Nathan's tone brooked no argument, his gaze unshakably resolute.

Evelyn lowered her eyes with an unaffected smile.

"Let's not revisit this. The fragile peace between the Sterling and Blackwood families finally holds. If we continue testing each other's limits, reconciliation may become impossible. Shouldn't we focus on mutual interests instead, Mr. Blackwood?"

Business first - their shared professional creed.

Nathan exhaled sharply, his eyes betraying quiet frustration.

He had hoped to discuss matters of the heart, only to find her mind occupied solely with financial considerations.

"I'll resolve this situation promptly."

Victoria Ashford had become an unbearable thorn in Nathan's side. He refused to tolerate this arrangement indefinitely.

Evelyn offered a noncommittal laugh as Sebastian approached with two champagne flutes, studying Nathan with undisguised curiosity.

"Mr. Blackwood, while we're grateful for your assistance, I must ask - what prompted this unexpected generosity?"

Nathan Blackwood wasn't known for altruistic gestures without clear motivation.

Nathan's voice dropped to a glacial timbre. "If not for Evelyn, do you imagine I'd lift a finger for you?"

Sebastian's eyebrows arched - an answer he'd anticipated.

His attention then shifted to the dignified Preston Sinclair nearby, prompting immediate deference.

"Mr. Sinclair, what an honor. We appreciate your timely intervention, but might I inquire about your motivations?"

Evelyn shot Sebastian a warning glare, silently commanding him to cease stirring trouble.

Nathan's gaze swept between the two men before settling on Preston.

Preston offered a benign smile. "Isn't it our duty to assist those in need? The mountain communities require our support. As businessmen, we bear responsibility to dedicate resources to public welfare. Mr. Hart, I'd gladly participate in future initiatives of this nature."

Sebastian stood dumbfounded.

Even Evelyn regarded Preston with newfound admiration.

Nathan turned away with a derisive scoff. The hypocrisy was almost impressive.