Chapter 257

The moment Evelyn stepped out of the office building, the evening breeze brushed against her skin, carrying the faint scent of blooming jasmine. She slid into her car and drove straight to Eleanor Sinclair’s residence to pick her up. Tonight, they were meeting Alexander Prescott for dinner—an invitation that had left Eleanor both curious and slightly hesitant.

As they cruised down the city streets, Eleanor turned to Evelyn with a thoughtful expression. “Darling, why did your friend suddenly invite me to dinner? I don’t even know him,” she mused, her fingers lightly tapping against the car window.

Evelyn’s lips curved into a soft smile. “Grandmother, Alexander is one of my dearest friends—just like Natalie. When I was in Chixdon, he was there for me through everything.”

Eleanor’s expression softened, her skepticism melting into warmth. “In that case, we should absolutely enjoy this meal and thank him properly for taking care of you,” she said, patting Evelyn’s hand affectionately.

By the time they arrived at the upscale restaurant, Eleanor’s initial reservations had faded. Alexander was already waiting for them, impeccably dressed, his charming smile lighting up as soon as he spotted them. His polite demeanor and genuine warmth only deepened Eleanor’s favorable impression.

“Alexander, thank you for looking after Evelyn during her time in Chixdon,” Eleanor said warmly, reaching out to squeeze his hand.

Alexander shook his head with a humble laugh. “No thanks needed, Mrs. Sinclair. Evelyn helped me just as much—if not more. That’s what friends do, isn’t it? We support each other.”

Eleanor’s smile widened. “Exactly right. You’re a good man, Alexander.”

Just as Alexander was about to respond, a smooth, familiar voice cut through the air.

“Well, isn’t this a pleasant surprise? Alexander, Mrs. Sinclair… and Evelyn.”

Evelyn’s fingers tightened around her napkin at the sound of Serena Cole’s voice. A flicker of unease passed through her before she turned to see Serena approaching their table, her smile dazzling. Behind her trailed Dylan Reeves, Theodore Whitmore, and—

Nathan Black.

Evelyn’s breath hitched when her gaze collided with Nathan’s. His dark eyes were already fixed on her, an unreadable intensity simmering beneath the surface. For a heartbeat, the air between them crackled with something unspoken—something that made Evelyn quickly avert her eyes, as if burned.

Nathan’s attention shifted to the table, taking in Eleanor and Alexander seated beside Evelyn. His jaw tightened almost imperceptibly.

Evelyn was having dinner with her grandmother… and Alexander?

Without hesitation, Nathan strode forward, his steps measured. His gaze briefly flickered to Eleanor before he greeted her in a voice laced with quiet respect.