Chapter 409

His booming voice cut through the restaurant chatter like a knife. There was no way anyone could pretend not to hear.

Evelyn's fingers tightened momentarily around her wine glass before she schooled her features into perfect composure.

Nathan picked up his glass with deliberate calm, clinked it against Dylan's with an audible chime, and drained it in one smooth motion.

Meanwhile, Julian turned to Evelyn with sincere admiration. "Dr. Hartley, my family owes you a tremendous debt. Without your intervention, my aunt might not be with us today." His voice dropped to a heartfelt whisper, "You're our guardian angel."

Evelyn offered a warm smile. "Please, it was nothing any decent person wouldn't have done."

Julian shook his head firmly. "That's where you're wrong. In today's world, most people would rather look away than get involved. Your courage sets you apart."

A shadow crossed his face as he added, "My aunt wanted to be here personally, but she wasn't feeling well this morning. She'll thank you properly next time."

Evelyn's medical instincts kicked in. "If she's frequently unwell, I'd recommend a thorough check-up. Early detection is crucial."

"Of course," Julian nodded. "I'll take her to the hospital tomorrow."

"Good," Evelyn approved with a professional nod.

The meal progressed with minimal conversation.

Yet Julian proved an attentive host, discreetly refilling Evelyn's glass before it emptied, his manners impeccable.

His constant attentiveness made Evelyn's cheeks warm with slight embarrassment.

Midway through dinner, she excused herself to visit the ladies' room.

As she dried her hands, preparing to return, Evelyn froze at the sight of Dylan leaning against the corridor wall.

Her expression immediately darkened, irritation flashing in her hazel eyes.

She squared her shoulders and walked forward, gaze fixed straight ahead.

Just as she passed him, Dylan's voice stopped her. "Evelyn."

She halted but didn't turn.

Dylan's lips curled in a knowing smirk as he studied her rigid posture. "We need to talk."

Evelyn finally turned, her smile frosty. "I believe we said everything there was to say, Mr. Reeves."

Dylan chuckled darkly. "Oh, but there's more. Don't you want to hear about Nathan's little hospital visit this morning?"

Without waiting for a response, he continued, "He went to see Serena. Doted on her like she was made of glass. And guess what? He told her about your divorce immediately."

His smirk widened. "Even promised he'd marry her the moment she's ready."