Chapter 487

The sleek black limousine idled near Sterling Tower. Inside, a nanny and bodyguard flanked the golden-haired Oliver Sinclair, their postures rigid as schoolchildren awaiting inspection.

Opposite them sat Preston Sinclair, who had invited himself along despite his son's protests.

Only Oliver dared voice his displeasure. "Daddy, get out! This is my date with Muse!" The five-year-old crossed his arms, puffing out his chest in what he believed was an intimidating stance.

Preston finished typing an email before glancing up. "I have business with Ms. Sterling," he said smoothly. "Consider me... moral support."

"No way!" Oliver's tiny brows knitted together. "No third wheels allowed! Not even you!"

A dangerous glint flashed in Preston's eyes. "Would you prefer Nathaniel Blackwood crashing your date instead?"

Oliver's bravado faltered. "That meanie? Never!"

"Exactly." Preston adjusted his cufflinks. "Family sticks together. If Muse likes me, she'll adore you twice as much."

Oliver chewed his lip. The logic was sound—Daddy was marginally better than that scowling Mr. Blackwood. But still...

"I can charm Muse myself!" he declared. "You just focus on making money so we can live in your penthouse later!"

Preston's jaw tightened. Patience. He's your heir. Through gritted teeth, he hissed, "No inheritance if I'm uninvited."

Oliver gasped. The ultimatum hung between them like a guillotine.

"Fine," the boy muttered, shooting his father a glare that promised future revenge. "But no funny business!"

The car door swung open. "Muse!" Oliver launched himself at Evelyn before she could process the scene. She caught him with a laugh, inhaling his sugary scent.

"My, haven't you grown handsome?" She booped his nose, making him giggle and bury his face in her neck.

Preston cleared his throat. "He's usually more... feral."

Evelyn startled at his voice. "Mr. Sinclair?"

Preston offered a practiced smile. "Oliver insisted I join you both tonight."

The boy's head snapped up. Liar!

"Muse," Oliver whispered urgently, clinging to her blouse. "Say the word and I'll have Marcus toss him out." His hopeful gaze pleaded: Choose me!