Chapter 313

The concert hall lights dimmed.

World-renowned pianist Sebastian Laurent took the stage with effortless grace. His tailored navy velvet tuxedo shimmered under the spotlights as he seated himself before the gleaming grand piano. The opening notes of his signature composition "Whispers of the Seasons" filled the auditorium.

A hush fell over the captivated audience as the haunting melody wove its magic. Yet Evelyn Carter's attention remained fixed on Sebastian's exquisite attire.

That distinctive navy suit was a one-of-a-kind masterpiece from Éclat Boutique's exclusive collection. Designed personally by international fashion icon Rosalind Walker, these creations were reserved only for those of exceptional talent and reputation.

Nathan Blackwood sat rigidly through the performance, his jaw clenched so tightly his temples throbbed. Though he maintained perfect composure, his knuckles whitened with restrained tension.

Throughout the concert, his gaze kept drifting back to Evelyn. She looked breathtaking tonight, and every graceful movement she made only deepened his irritation.

When Alexander Whitmore leaned close to whisper something in Evelyn's ear, Nathan's grip on the armrests tightened until the wood creaked. The way Evelyn's eyes sparkled with amusement at whatever Alexander said made Nathan's stomach twist.

What could they possibly be discussing so intimately? After three years of marriage, why did she have more to say to this man than she ever had for him?

Julian Montgomery shivered suddenly. "Damn, did they crank up the AC?" he muttered, rubbing his arms.

After several breathtaking pieces, the spotlight shifted to Isabelle Montgomery, Sebastian's protégé. The young pianist floated onto stage in an emerald chiffon gown adorned with delicate silk blossoms, looking every bit the woodland nymph.

Julian immediately perked up, waving enthusiastically. "Belle! Over here! Your big brother's watching!"

Nathan shot him a glare that could freeze lava. He seriously considered pushing Julian off the balcony.

On stage, Isabelle remained blissfully unaware of her brother's antics. With moonbeam radiance, she offered the audience a graceful curtsy before settling at the piano.

Her performance of Mozart's "Rondo Alla Turca" flowed like liquid silk beneath her nimble fingers. Evelyn watched with visible admiration, though a shadow of something darker flickered in her eyes.

Her left hand rested on her lap, fingers unconsciously mirroring the lively melody with perfect precision. Even her once-paralyzed pinky seemed to regain momentary life.

Alexander noticed the subtle movement. "I remember how brilliantly you played as a child," he murmured. "Had you pursued music, you'd undoubtedly surpass Isabelle's skill today."

Evelyn's fingers stilled abruptly. "That life is gone," she said firmly, clenching her hand into a fist.

The injury from Eldermere battlefield - carrying Nathan's unconscious body through enemy fire - had severed tendons in her left hand. Countless surgeries and rehabilitation had restored partial function, but her piano dreams had died that day.

Yet Evelyn regretted nothing. She hadn't saved Nathan the man, but a fellow peacekeeper. Her scars weren't reminders of past mistakes, but medals of honor.

As the final notes faded, Sebastian and Isabelle took their bows amidst thunderous applause.

"Evelyn, would you join me backstage?" Alexander asked with a charming smile.

"Is something wrong?"

"A personal favor. My mother adores Maestro Laurent. I was hoping to request an autographed album."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Sebastian's notoriously selective with admirers."

Alexander's smile deepened. "Sincerity moves mountains. If I can just speak with him directly..."

Meanwhile, Julian practically bounced down the corridor, arms overflowing with flowers for his sister. Nathan followed stiffly, his expression stormy.

They turned a corner - and froze. Evelyn and Alexander approached from the opposite direction. The spacious hallway suddenly felt claustrophobically small.