Chapter 312

Isabelle Montgomery was Julian's younger sister. She had been a constant presence in Nathan Blackwood's life since childhood, practically growing up under his watchful gaze.

Julian was more than just an older brother—he played the role of both sibling and guardian. His devotion to his only sister knew no bounds, surpassing even the Kingsley brothers' affection for Evelyn.

After a brief hesitation, Nathan finally relented. "Fine, pick me up."

Night descended upon the Crestview National Music Hall not long after.

Julian had secured a VIP box on the second floor well in advance, ensuring the perfect vantage point to witness his sister's brilliance. Not content with just that, he had also arranged professional camera equipment, meticulously adjusting the angles to capture every moment of her performance.

Seated nearby, Nathan crossed his legs, casting a disdainful glance at Julian, who was now more engrossed in his camera than a seasoned paparazzo.

Unimpressed, Nathan remarked, "The organizers will document the entire performance and even produce commemorative discs for the performers. Don’t embarrass yourself with your amateur efforts."

Julian shot back, "A heartless man like you wouldn’t understand! Footage captured by a loving brother is infused with emotion. How could it compare to some sterile official recording?"

Just as Julian adjusted the lens, his eyes widened in surprise. "Damn! Evelyn is here too. Did I miss something? And who the hell is that guy beside her? Why is he so pale? Is he sick?"

Nathan’s pulse quickened as he rushed to the railing. Across the hall, in another VIP box, Evelyn and Alexander Whitmore were deep in conversation, exchanging smiles as if lost in their own world.

Unaware of the intense scrutiny, Evelyn shivered slightly in the chilly air-conditioned hall. Her emerald-green evening gown offered little warmth, and tiny goosebumps prickled her arms.

Alexander noticed immediately. Without a word, he removed his suit jacket and knelt before her.

"Alexander, what are you doing?" Evelyn’s eyes widened in surprise.

He draped the jacket over her slender legs. "If your legs are warm, you won’t feel as cold."

Then, with a charming smile, he added, "I considered offering you the jacket, but your dress is far too stunning. You look like a siren from Greek mythology—it would be a crime to hide your beauty."

Evelyn’s toes curled in her heels, flustered by his boldness. Men in Serenia were certainly direct. No wonder Camille had fallen for her husband!

Meanwhile, Nathan’s grip on the railing tightened until his knuckles turned white. The sight of Alexander kneeling before Evelyn sent a surge of frustration through him. The veins in his hands stood out starkly against his skin.

A single question burned in his mind—what exactly was the nature of Evelyn’s relationship with Alexander?

"Who the hell is that guy?" Nathan muttered through clenched teeth.

Julian, who had once harbored feelings for Evelyn, couldn’t help but scowl. Even though she had rejected him outright, seeing another man by her side still stung.

"He’s clearly a wolf in sheep’s clothing," Julian grumbled. "And look at how pale he is—does he moonlight as a vampire?"

Nathan’s gaze remained fixed on Evelyn, his voice icy. "That’s Victor Whitmore’s youngest son, Alexander."

Julian blinked in surprise. "The Whitmores? Why don’t I remember him?"

"He spent over a decade in Serenia and only recently returned to Crestview," Nathan explained.

"The Whitmores are a formidable family," Julian mused, narrowing his eyes at Nathan’s tense expression. "Seems like the competition for Evelyn’s attention is heating up."

He smirked. "You know what they say—even the mightiest oak can bend in a storm. You’ve got two choices: retreat gracefully or fight like hell. Your call."

Nathan inhaled sharply, jaw clenched. "Just shut up."