Chapter 421

At the mention of Evelyn's name, Nathan froze mid-stride. He turned slightly, his piercing gaze locking onto Lila with calculated intensity. "What exactly are you trying to say?"

Lila swallowed hard, relieved he was listening but irritated by his icy demeanor. She steadied herself before speaking again, her voice trembling just enough to sound sincere.

"I hope you won't blame Evelyn too harshly," she began, choosing her words with care. "I believe she acted impulsively when she accidentally pushed Serena down the stairs. It wasn't deliberate. Wouldn't it be a tragedy to let such a moment destroy your marriage?"

Nathan arched an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "So you're also convinced Evelyn pushed Serena?"

Lila hesitated, thrown off balance by his direct question. "I..." she stammered, feigning reluctance as if burdened by a heavy secret.

Nathan's sharp eyes narrowed. "Speak plainly," he commanded coldly.

Taking a shaky breath, Lila blurted out, "I witnessed it!"

His gaze turned razor-sharp. "You saw it?" he echoed. "You're claiming you actually saw Evelyn push Serena?"

"Yes," Lila nodded, pausing briefly before confirming her statement.

Nathan fell silent, his face an impassive mask that revealed nothing. Lila couldn't decipher his thoughts, and the uncertainty gnawed at her. Attempting to gauge his reaction, she softened her tone. "Mr. Black, I don't believe Evelyn meant to do it. You were married before—you understand her better than anyone. How about this? As Evelyn's sister, I'll apologize to Serena on her behalf. Please... Don't hold this against Evelyn any longer."

Lila straightened, confidence returning as she played the role of the devoted, selfless sister. She was certain Nathan would be impressed by her sincerity.

But his gaze only grew colder. "Are you absolutely certain you saw Evelyn push Serena?" he pressed.

"Yes," Lila affirmed, nodding firmly, though a flicker of unease shone in her eyes.

Did Nathan know something she didn't?

Instead of responding immediately, Nathan let out a soft chuckle—a sound that sent chills down Lila's spine.

"I despise being lied to," he said, his voice low but cutting. "Ms. Sinclair, if I discover you've deceived me, the consequences will be more than you can bear."

Lila's eyes widened instantly. She quickly averted her gaze, masking the panic rising within her. Her heart pounded violently. The more her fear grew, the harder she fought to maintain composure. She had already committed to the lie—there was no turning back now. She had to stick to her story. If she confessed the truth to Nathan, the fallout would be catastrophic. She had no choice but to gamble that Nathan possessed no proof Evelyn hadn't pushed Serena intentionally.