Chapter 159
"No, think of another condition."
Evelyn's voice was firm as she crossed her arms.
"But you just promised me!" Julian's brows knitted together, his expression turning desperate.
"I really can't go with you."
Her gaze hardened as she met his eyes. "I made a vow to Grandfather Reginald that I'd celebrate his birthday as his granddaughter-in-law. After this, I won't have any ties to the Blackwood family anymore."
"If I show up with another man, it would only upset him. I just want his 80th birthday to be perfect. This might be the last time I see him."
A shadow of sorrow flickered in her striking eyes.
"Evelyn, you're too kind. Nathan is a fool for letting you go." Julian sighed dramatically.
But inwardly, he smirked. If my best friend weren't so blind, I'd never have found this hidden gem. Oh, Nathan… your loss is my greatest fortune!
"Then name another condition." Evelyn traced the delicate curves of the crystal sculpture, unable to hide her admiration.
"Then… stop calling me Mr. Montgomery. Just Julian, from now on." He fluttered his lashes playfully.
"That's it? You know I don't owe favors lightly."
"Having dinner with you is reward enough." His gaze lingered on her, warm and adoring.
"Fine. Julian it is."
His heart leapt. Progress! To him, hearing his name from her lips was as sweet as an endearment.
"Ms. Carter, your pasta is ready."
Theodore strode in, apron tied neatly around his waist. His tone was gentle toward Evelyn but sharp as he added, "I made his extra spicy."
May it burn his tongue off.
"Evelyn, don't you think it's odd living with a male assistant? I have a housekeeper—fifteen years of service. I could transfer her to you. Impeccable skills, divine cooking. I grew up on her meals." Julian shot Theodore a smug glance, like a newly favored concubine flaunting his rise.
Theodore's grip on his apron tightened. The audacity! He’s not even her boyfriend!
"Theo and I grew up together. He’s family."
Evelyn’s eyes darkened, her voice icy. "Mr. Montgomery, aren’t you overstepping?"
Theodore’s chest swelled with warmth. I knew she’d defend me!
Julian nearly choked on his own heartbreak.
She grew up with him? A childhood sweetheart?! How is Sebastian Kingsley so lenient, letting this man live under the same roof as his sister?!
"Go ahead to the table. I’ll take this upstairs."
Evelyn carefully packed the sculpture and floated up the steps, light as a butterfly.
Julian watched, mesmerized, and snapped a photo of her retreating figure. Even candid, she looked like art.
Then, a message flashed on his screen.
[Nathan: Bad mood. Drinks. Now.]
Grinning, Julian sent the photo.
Two seconds later, his phone rang.
"Hello?" Julian turned away, lowering his voice.
Nathan’s tone was lethal. "You’re with Evelyn now?"
"At her place, actually." He couldn’t resist gloating.
"Where does she live?!" Nathan snarled.
"You don’t know? Oh, I can’t tell you. She clearly doesn’t want you showing up uninvited."
"Julian." Nathan’s voice dropped to a deadly whisper. "Where. Is. She?"
Julian muffled a laugh. "Not telling~"