Chapter 456

The air around Nathan turned glacial, his presence radiating an almost tangible chill.

His words sliced through the silence like shards of broken glass, each syllable scraping against Evelyn's nerves. "Is that so?" His voice was dangerously soft.

Evelyn met his gaze unflinchingly, her lips curving into a practiced smile. "Indeed, Mr. Black. It's only fitting for your ex-wife to bless your new union, don't you think?"

Her tone remained steady, though internally, her heart was being shredded by invisible claws.

Nathan's piercing stare seemed to strip away all her defenses, leaving her soul bare before him.

After an agonizing silence, his mouth twisted into a cruel smirk. "How... thoughtful of you. Don't worry, we'll make sure you receive your invitation personally."

Evelyn's breath hitched imperceptibly.

She squared her shoulders, lifting her chin defiantly. "I'll be counting the days."

Without another word, she brushed past him, refusing to look back even as she felt his burning gaze on her retreating form.

Nathan watched her go, his expression darkening like gathering storm clouds, the veins in his temples pulsing visibly.

When they both returned to Leonard in the private dining room, their masks were perfectly in place.

Yet Leonard, ever perceptive, didn't miss the electric tension crackling between them.

After dinner, the trio made their way to the parking garage.

As Leonard settled into his luxury sedan, Evelyn offered him a warm smile. "Take care, Leonard."

"Will do, my dear." He nodded affectionately. "Text me when you get home."

"Of course. Goodnight."

With a final wave, Evelyn turned on her heel and walked away, pointedly ignoring Nathan's existence entirely.

Nathan's brow furrowed as he watched her go, then turned to study Leonard's impassive face.

He'd fully expected Leonard to suggest he drive Evelyn home - it would have been characteristic of the older man's meddling. The fact that he hadn't... was telling.

Without a word, Nathan slid into his sports car, revved the engine, and disappeared into the night.

Meanwhile, Leonard pulled out his phone as his car merged onto the freeway. "Leonard here," he said when the call connected. "We need to talk about our little problem..."