Chapter 324

Nathaniel approached with effortless elegance, offering a respectful bow to Harrison.

Though Nathaniel and Alexander shared blood as half-brothers, their appearances couldn't have been more distinct.

Alexander, Victor's youngest son, possessed an ethereal beauty that blurred gender lines—soft features, porcelain skin, and eyes like liquid silver.

In contrast, Victor's second son carried sharper edges—bold brows arching toward his temples, a chiseled jawline, and piercing eyes mirroring his father's intensity. His tall, lean frame exuded quiet authority.

"Ah, Nathaniel! Good to see you!"

Harrison's face warmed at the sight of the young Whitmore heir he'd watched mature over the years.

"Victor, didn't you mention bringing your youngest tonight? It's been ages since I last saw that boy. Where is he?"

Victor chuckled. "That rascal claimed some last-minute business. He'll arrive shortly."

His gaze swept the room. "Harrison, where's Evelyn? I thought she'd be joining us."

A cough. "She had matters to settle first but promised to come afterward." Truthfully, Harrison couldn't predict his daughter's movements—but Evelyn never broke her word.

"Tch. She'd better show! I came specifically for her!" Victor crossed his arms. "I'm not leaving without seeing Evelyn tonight!"

As if summoned, the butler's voice echoed through the hall. "Chairman Kingsley! Ms. Evelyn has returned!"

"Speak of the devil!"

Harrison's entire demeanor brightened, eyes crinkling with paternal pride.

All heads turned toward the entrance.

Victor perked up instantly, craning his neck like an eager schoolboy.

Even typically composed Nathaniel subtly adjusted his tie, his usual indifference cracking with uncharacteristic tension.

"Dad! I'm home!"

Evelyn's crystalline laughter filled the space as she glided in—sunshine incarnate—with Alexander at her side.

The sight stunned everyone except Sebastian.

Harrison blinked in surprise.

Victor's expression morphed into something complicated, while Nathaniel's lips pressed into a bloodless line. His grip tightened on his tie, knuckles whitening.

Darkness pooled in his gaze.

"Uncle Harrison, Father—apologies for our delay."

Alexander's velvety voice broke the silence. After casting a lingering look at Evelyn, he offered the elders a flawless bow.

"Alex, did you two meet at the door?" Victor's eyes darted between them.

A slow, knowing smile curved Alexander's lips as he admired Evelyn's profile. "No, Father. I specifically collected Evelyn from her hotel." His fingers brushed hers. "We arrived together."