Chapter 492

Nathan was terrified. The thought of losing Evelyn forever sent chills down his spine.

He forced himself to stay calm. Even if Evelyn chose Preston, it didn't matter.

There were countless ways he could keep her bound to him forever.

Evelyn pushed him away with surprising strength, easily overpowering Nathan who was still pretending to be injured. "Then enjoy being sick," she scoffed. "The doctor will be here shortly."

As she descended the grand staircase of Highland Estates, she nearly collided with Teddy and the arriving physician. Their expressions were carefully neutral, though not particularly concerned.

Had Evelyn not already suspected Nathan's deception, she might have missed the subtle signs. Marcus followed close behind them, his stern face unreadable as he urged them forward.

"Ms. Sinclair!" Teddy exclaimed upon seeing her. "What do you need? Allow me to fetch it for you. There's no need for you to—"

Evelyn silenced him with an icy glare before turning to Marcus. "Let's go."

"Yes, Miss."

Teddy froze as Nathan came rushing down the stairs behind them—without his cane. The realization hit Teddy instantly. Mr. Blackwood had recovered completely! When had this happened?

But Nathan paid no attention to his shocked expression. Evelyn and Marcus were already out the door, leaving Nathan standing helplessly in the foyer.

When his gaze shifted to Teddy and the doctor, his eyes were eerily calm. "She's upset."

Teddy thought, Of course she is! The doctor shifted uncomfortably. "Mr. Blackwood, should I still—"

Nathan cut him off with a sharp glance. "No need." The doctor quickly retreated the way he had come.

Teddy stood rooted in place, feeling the oppressive chill radiating from Nathan. He didn't dare move. There was nothing he could do—Evelyn and Nathan were both forces of nature.

"Mr. Blackwood, perhaps you should rest upstairs?" Teddy suggested weakly. He had successfully lured Evelyn here, only for Nathan to ruin everything. If Evelyn was angry, would Nathan take it out on him? Knowing Nathan, it was entirely possible.

Upstairs, the husky was dragging Nathan's abandoned cane toward its bed, step by step. The sound drew Nathan's attention. His gaze darkened as he stared at the cane, realization dawning. That was why Evelyn's attitude had shifted so abruptly.

He glanced down at his legs. He had hidden his recovery for so long, using it to keep Evelyn close—only for it to be exposed so carelessly.

Frustration coiled tightly in his chest. He cursed under his breath, furious at his own body for healing too quickly. If he chased after Evelyn now, she would only grow angrier. Forgiveness was out of the question.

Though the thought of Evelyn meeting Preston Sinclair made his blood boil, Nathan knew he was in the wrong. He couldn't act recklessly.

He would have to find another way to make this right.

Days later, Evelyn and William were fishing by the lake at Sterling Manor when Isabella bounded over, beaming. "Uncle William! Evelyn! I'm throwing a party to celebrate my new relationship!"

Evelyn rolled her eyes and shot William a pointed look—She needs to tone it down.

William chuckled. "Isabella, this is your fourth celebration this month. And with a different man each time. You're certainly keeping busy!"