Chapter 328

Nathan only wanted to catch a fleeting glimpse of Evelyn.

Suddenly, the wrought iron gates of Willow Creek Estate creaked open. Nathan's pulse spiked violently. Every muscle in his body tensed as his broad shoulders leaned forward unconsciously.

His piercing gaze locked onto the entrance, breath hitching in anticipation.

But when Alexander Whitmore sauntered into view with that infuriating smirk, Nathan's hope shattered like glass.

The cold night air grew heavier as Alexander approached with deliberate steps.

"Mr. Blackwood," Alexander drawled, adjusting his cufflinks. "How...unexpected. Isn't it rather presumptuous to lurk outside a lady's residence at this hour?"

Nathan's jaw tightened, his voice glacial. "My business here doesn't concern you. Since when did Fairhaven become Whitmore territory?"

"Always so arrogant," Alexander sneered. "I know exactly why you're here. Regretting your choice? Realized too late that Victoria played you?"

A muscle twitched in Nathan's cheek as bitter truth coated his tongue.

"Evelyn has moved on," Alexander continued icily. "If you think you can waltz back into her life after breaking her heart, you'll have to go through me first."

Nathan's fingers curled into fists. "You don't speak for her."

His chin lifted defiantly. "Even if I have regrets, even if I want her back - that's between Evelyn and me. Your interference means nothing."

"Damn it, Nathan—"

Their heated exchange was abruptly cut off.

Nathan's head snapped up as Evelyn stormed toward them, her silk robe fluttering like battle standards in the night breeze. His treacherous heart hammered against his ribs.

"Evelyn, you'll catch cold—" Alexander's tone instantly softened, concern replacing his earlier venom.

But she swept past him without a glance, stopping mere inches from Nathan.

The space between them crackled with electricity, Alexander suddenly rendered invisible.

"Touring Fairhaven again, Mr. Blackwood?" Evelyn's voice dripped with sarcasm. "Should I start charging admission for loitering outside my gates?"

Nathan drank in her furious beauty, his response startlingly honest. "The view is...exceptional."

Evelyn's eyes flashed. Was this man truly so dense?

"Then I'll arrange a proper tour guide," she bit out. "This isn't a damn scenic overlook!"

When Nathan simply continued staring with those haunted eyes, Evelyn lost patience. "Leave. Now."

For a suspended moment, raw emotion flickered across his face. Then, shockingly gentle: "Alright. Goodnight."

Evelyn blinked. Goodnight? After this spectacle?

As Nathan turned toward his car with unsettling finality, something primal made her call out—

"Nathan, wait!"