Chapter 68

Evelyn Sinclair exchanged a glance with Bennett, whose expression mirrored her own surprise.

Nathan Blackwood's unexpected presence clearly caught them both off guard.

Their eyes met briefly before Evelyn turned her attention to Dominic Kingsley, her lips curving into a wry smile.

"Was this your idea of a setup?"

Dominic lifted his shoulders in a helpless shrug, glancing between Nathan and Evelyn.

"Vice President Sinclair, I had no choice in the matter. Forgive my presumption—I assure you, I remain neutral in whatever matters exist between you both." He offered a conciliatory smile. "As an apology, once you're finished here, I'd like to personally show you our new research facility. I believe you'll find it fascinating."

Fascinating? Undoubtedly. But that didn't lessen the irritation of being manipulated.

Evelyn's expression cooled as she turned her gaze to Nathan, her brow arching slightly. "Mr. Blackwood, if this is about that emerald pipe, save your breath. I'm not interested in rehashing the same conversation."

Honestly, would they ever stop hounding her? Her time was far too valuable for these games.

"Evelyn." Nathan's deep voice held an unfamiliar weight. After a pause, he continued, "I know my grandfather visited you today. Whatever he said... don't take it to heart."

He knew better than to expect forgiveness. A simple apology couldn't erase three years of neglect.

Evelyn studied him, struck by the odd shift in his demeanor.

"Is that all?" Impatience laced her words.

Nathan hesitated. "That pipe holds no real value to you. If you took it simply to provoke them, you've succeeded. Once you've had your fill of satisfaction, return it to my grandfather. Name your price—anything you want."

Silence stretched between them. Then Evelyn's lips curled in amusement.

How interesting. When intimidation failed, he resorted to bargaining? That pipe must mean more to them than she realized.

Dominic, sensing the tension, attempted to lighten the mood. "Anything? What if she demands reconciliation? Would you agree to that?"

The question hung heavily in the air. Bennett's gaze flicked to Nathan, whose expression darkened.

Just as Dominic began regretting his words, Evelyn laughed—a sharp, dismissive sound.

"Reconcile? Don't flatter yourself. Someone of Mr. Blackwood's standing should marry within his own circle. Why would he ever lower himself?"

Nathan's jaw tightened, but Evelyn continued smoothly, "However..." She paused, her smile turning calculating. "If you're that desperate for the pipe, terms can be arranged."

Nathan's attention sharpened. "Name them."

Evelyn's gaze slid to Dominic. "A moment alone?"

Dominic straightened his tie with visible relief. "Of course."

He exited without hesitation, Bennett following suit. Being trapped between these two exes was an experience he'd rather avoid.

Left alone, Nathan waited while Evelyn moved to the sofa with deliberate grace. She picked up a cigarette from the table, lit it with practiced ease, and exhaled a slow, perfect smoke ring.

Nathan's frown deepened at the sight. "Since when do you smoke?"

The Evelyn he remembered had been the picture of refinement—no vices, no imperfections.

Yet the woman before him handled the cigarette with such natural elegance it was clear this wasn't a new habit.

Evelyn tapped ash into the tray, her smile enigmatic. "Three years now."

Three years.

The beginning of their marriage.

Meaning she'd taken up smoking during what should have been their happiest days—days he'd left her alone.