Chapter 326

The dinner was a lavish affair, with exquisite dishes spread across the table and a rare vintage from Harrison Kingsley’s prized collection—Château Belleview, aged to perfection over the past decade. The atmosphere remained warm and convivial, just as it had always been between the two families.

For Harrison and Victor Whitmore, this gathering was more than just a meal—it was a nostalgic reunion, a reminder of their decades-long friendship. The only difference now was the presence of their children, adding youthful energy to the evening.

Victor had an ulterior motive this time—finding suitable matches for his two unmarried sons.

Throughout the banquet, Nathaniel Whitmore sat directly across from Evelyn Carter, while Alexander Whitmore occupied the seat beside her.

The dining table was wide, making the distance between Nathaniel and Evelyn far greater than that between her and Alexander.

Nathaniel watched with quiet frustration as his younger brother attended to Evelyn with unwavering devotion. A shadow flickered in his eyes, and the fork in his hand nearly bent under his grip.

What a disadvantageous position! That cunning little brother of mine is making the most of this setup—right place, right time, right company.

Alexander, having learned from their previous encounters, knew Evelyn’s weakness for seafood—especially crab and shrimp, delicacies she could never resist.

So, throughout the meal, Alexander barely touched his own plate. Instead, he meticulously peeled shrimp for Evelyn, offering her one succulent piece after another. The entire table discreetly observed their interaction.

Evelyn indulged without restraint, savoring every bite in front of her family. Alexander’s long lashes lowered as a faint smile curved his lips. His elegant fingers deftly cracked open shrimp shells, placing the perfectly peeled morsels onto Evelyn’s plate.

For a man of his status, such an act might be considered beneath him. Yet Alexander seemed entirely absorbed, oblivious to the onlookers, as if this were the most natural thing in the world.

Evelyn showed no embarrassment, nor did she refuse his attentions. Instead, she accepted each offering with graceful appreciation, enjoying every moment.

Had they been alone, she might have rejected him outright. But with Victor present, the dynamics shifted. This was a golden opportunity to expose his vulnerabilities—she wouldn’t let it slip away.

As Alexander peeled each shrimp, wiping his fingers meticulously with a napkin afterward, Nathaniel couldn’t help but scoff. He knew his brother’s obsessive cleanliness—he wouldn’t even wear the same suit twice. Yet for Evelyn, he was breaking his own rules. It seemed Alexander was determined to outmaneuver him at every turn.

"My daughter is becoming more and more unrestrained. You must forgive her manners, Victor," Harrison said, slightly embarrassed by Evelyn’s voracious appetite.

"Oh, Harrison, don’t say that. We’re all family here—no need for formalities. Evelyn’s honesty reminds me of you in your younger days. I adore it. Honestly, I’d love to whisk her away in a grand procession and make her my daughter-in-law!" Victor laughed heartily, finally revealing his true intentions.

Harrison merely smiled in response, choosing not to delve deeper into the topic.

Meanwhile, Evelyn finally sat back, satisfied. She covered her mouth delicately as she let out a soft sigh. Alexander turned to her, his deep gaze lingering, warmth swirling in his eyes.

"Wipe your hands," he murmured, discreetly passing her a napkin beneath the table.

"Mm, thanks," Evelyn replied, dabbing her lips with practiced elegance.

"Evelyn seems to have quite the appetite tonight," Nathaniel remarked with a charming smile.

"Oh, my apologies. The food here is simply too delicious—I couldn’t help myself," Evelyn began.

"No, no, Evelyn, you misunderstand me. I didn’t mean it as criticism. I just find you refreshingly different from the other society ladies I’ve met," Nathaniel said warmly.

Leaning forward, he added with sincerity, "I admire your authenticity. You’re utterly captivating."

Hmm. So being 'real' just because I eat like a normal person? Has he never met a woman who enjoys food before? Evelyn thought wryly, but she smiled politely. "Thank you for the compliment, Mr. Nathaniel."

"I noticed you haven’t had much to drink. You must be thirsty. Allow me to pour you some wine," Nathaniel suggested, rising smoothly with the intention of serving her.

But before he could, Alexander cut in coolly, a mocking smile playing on his lips. "Seafood pairs with white wine, not red. Honestly, Nathaniel, have you been living under a rock? Even basic etiquette eludes you now?"