Chapter 495

Without another word, Leonard rose abruptly and strode out before Nathan could respond.

Margaret turned to Nathan with a gentle sigh. "Your father needs time to process this."

Nathan gave a curt nod in acknowledgment.

For the next several days, Nathan made it his personal mission to shadow Evelyn's every move. His sleek black sedan trailed her vehicle like a silent guardian, maintaining just enough distance to avoid detection yet close enough to intervene if needed.

Evelyn had grown accustomed to his persistent presence. She deliberately ignored him, refusing to acknowledge his existence as she went about her daily routine.

One evening, Leonard extended a dinner invitation to Evelyn. After finishing work, she drove herself to the upscale restaurant.

Halfway there, Evelyn realized something was different. The familiar black sedan was conspicuously absent from her rearview mirror. A flicker of confusion crossed her features before she scowled at herself. Why should she care whether he followed her or not? His actions were none of her concern.

Arriving at the restaurant, Evelyn parked and made her way to the private dining room. Finding it empty, she settled onto the plush sofa to wait for Leonard.

Moments later, the door creaked open. Evelyn looked up expectantly, only for her expression to darken when she saw who entered.

What was Nathan doing here?

In truth, Nathan had arrived earlier but waited outside, fearing Evelyn might leave if she saw him immediately. Only after she'd entered did he make his move.

"Where's Leonard?" Evelyn demanded, her voice sharp with barely concealed irritation.

"He's not coming," Nathan replied calmly, closing the door behind him. After a deliberate pause, he added, "I arranged this meeting."

Evelyn's eyes narrowed, though her face remained composed. "Nathan, I have nothing to say to you. This conversation is over."

She stood abruptly, grabbing her purse as she moved toward the exit.

As she brushed past him, Nathan's hand shot out, fingers wrapping around her wrist.

"At least stay for dinner," he implored.

"No," Evelyn snapped, wrenching her arm free.

But before she could take another step, Nathan bent swiftly and scooped her into his arms with effortless strength.

Evelyn gasped at the sudden movement, her arms instinctively looping around his neck for balance.

"Nathan Black! Put me down this instant!" Her voice was laced with fury, though her body remained trapped in his firm embrace.