Chapter 488

Clara blinked rapidly, her eyes widening in shock. The revelation that Evelyn Hartley had been previously married left her momentarily speechless. After collecting herself, she responded carefully, "Given you've just ended a marriage, perhaps it's too soon to consider new relationships. But I do hope you'll keep Julian in mind for the future. He's truly one of a kind."

Evelyn was taken aback by Clara's persistent endorsement of Julian despite learning about her divorce. She forced an awkward chuckle and quickly diverted the conversation. "Clara, you must try this dish. The flavors are exquisite."

Skillfully steering the discussion toward safer topics, Evelyn managed to ease the momentary tension. The remainder of their lunch passed pleasantly enough.

By meal's end, Clara had grown even more fond of Evelyn. As they walked together toward the parking lot, Evelyn spotted a familiar figure leaning against her car—Nathan Black. Her brows knitted together in irritation. Julian's eyes narrowed sharply at the sight of Nathan, his curiosity instantly piqued.

"Evelyn, who is that gentleman?" Clara inquired, her tone laced with polite interest.

"Just an acquaintance," Evelyn replied tersely. After a brief pause, she added, "Clara, I should be going now. Let's plan another outing soon."

"Of course," Clara responded with a warm smile.

Evelyn strode to her car, opened the door, and slid into the driver's seat. Without invitation, Nathan climbed into the passenger side. The engine roared to life as Evelyn pulled away.

Watching the departing vehicle, Clara turned to Julian with a puzzled expression. "There seemed to be... tension between Evelyn and that man," she observed.

"That's Evelyn's ex-husband," Julian explained. A knowing smile played at his lips, his eyes reflecting complex emotions. Clearly, Nathan still held significant sway over Evelyn's heart.

This revelation intrigued Clara. "So that's the famous Nathan Black! He certainly carries himself like a distinguished gentleman," she remarked, casting a sideways glance at Julian. "But Julian, that question you asked Evelyn earlier was rather forward. What's gotten into you?"

Julian merely narrowed his eyes, maintaining his silence.

"Are you developing feelings for Evelyn?" Clara pressed.

Julian responded with nothing more than an enigmatic half-smile, though his lack of denial spoke volumes. Clara returned the expression with one of her own—equal parts knowing and amused.

Meanwhile, as Evelyn navigated through traffic, she shot Nathan an irritated glance. "First you followed me this morning, now you're stalking me at lunch. What exactly are you playing at?"

Nathan answered with infuriating calm, "Isn't it obvious? I'm courting you."

Evelyn nearly swerved the car in surprise. "Courting me?" The words sounded absurd even as she said them. This had to be some twisted joke.

A cold laugh escaped her lips. "Nathan, this is ridiculous."