Chapter 485

Evelyn's expression remained carefully neutral, though her jaw tightened momentarily. She lifted her gaze to meet Nathan's, shock clearly written across her delicate features. Her voice trembled slightly as she responded, "Nathan Black! Have you lost your mind? What kind of ridiculous nonsense are you spouting now?"

Nathan didn't flinch, his piercing blue eyes holding hers with unsettling intensity. "I mean every word. I know exactly what I'm saying and how I feel," he declared firmly.

Without breaking eye contact, he reached out and placed his hand gently on her shoulder, his touch sending an unexpected jolt through her. His voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Evelyn Hartley, I'm in love with you."

Evelyn's reaction was instantaneous. Her dark eyes dilated, and she quickly looked away, her long lashes casting shadows that concealed the storm of emotions raging within. Her chest rose and fell rapidly, betraying her racing heartbeat despite her outward composure. The sudden confession left her reeling.

Part of her wondered if Nathan might be suffering from some temporary insanity or fever-induced delirium to make such an outrageous declaration.

After what felt like an eternity, Evelyn finally gathered enough composure to meet Nathan's gaze again. The moment their eyes locked, her breath caught in her throat. In the depths of his intense stare, she saw her own reflection staring back at her, vulnerable and exposed. The intensity made her want to look away again, but she forced herself to maintain the connection.

Drawing a deep, steadying breath, Evelyn pressed her lips together briefly before responding with forced calm. "I... see."

Nathan's brows knitted together in confusion. This wasn't the reaction he'd anticipated. "That's all?" His voice carried an edge of frustration.

"What more do you want from me, Mr. Black?" Evelyn countered sharply, her green eyes flashing with defiance. "Were you expecting me to swoon? To burst into tears of joy and throw myself into your arms?" Her voice dripped with sarcasm.

Nathan was momentarily speechless. He'd prepared himself for various possible reactions - anger, disbelief, even happiness - but this cool dismissal wasn't among them. The woman before him remained an enigma, her walls firmly in place despite his heartfelt confession.

"Are we finished here, Mr. Black? May I leave now?" Without waiting for a response, Evelyn turned on her heel and strode purposefully toward her waiting car.

Nathan watched her retreating figure, a mixture of frustration and bewilderment crossing his handsome features. He ran a hand through his dark hair, exhaling sharply as she disappeared into the vehicle.

Inside the car, Evelyn's hands trembled slightly on the steering wheel. She closed her eyes, taking several deep breaths before starting the engine and pulling away with more force than necessary.

When Evelyn arrived at the Caldwell family estate, Olivia met her at the door with news. "The Sinclairs came by earlier to apologize," Olivia informed her, shaking her head. "We sent them away immediately."

Looking genuinely remorseful, Olivia added, "I'm so sorry, Evelyn. This whole mess is entirely my fault."

Evelyn reached out and squeezed Olivia's hand reassuringly. "It's alright, really. Your intentions were good."

"But perhaps we should put any more matchmaking attempts on hold for now, don't you think?" Olivia considered for a moment before nodding in agreement. Some things, she realized, were better left to unfold naturally.

Evelyn exhaled in quiet relief. At least for the time being, she wouldn't have to endure any more awkward setups - a small but welcome reprieve from the emotional turmoil of the day.