Chapter 381

Vincent guided Evelyn and Isabella to the backstage lounge, where they sipped champagne and chatted.

The conversation flowed effortlessly until Isabella's phone buzzed. Her agent needed her for an urgent press interview.

Once she left, only Vincent and Evelyn remained in the softly lit room.

"It's been three years, Evelyn. How have you been?" Vincent's gaze was warm, filled with the quiet pride of a mentor. There was no hint of anything beyond professional respect.

Evelyn gave a small, wry smile. "As you can see, not much has changed."

"You've grown, though. I can see it in your eyes." Vincent studied her carefully, noting the subtle shadows beneath them. "Where did you go? Did you find inspiration abroad?"

She let out a soft laugh. "No grand adventures. Just the same routine—farmers' markets and quiet nights. The fire's gone out, I suppose."

"You always did have a way with words."

Vincent clinked his glass against hers, his expression thoughtful. "When will you reveal yourself as Alexa? It's a shame to keep such brilliance hidden."

Evelyn exhaled slowly. "I want to, but timing is everything. Revealing it now could bring complications. When I do, it has to mean something—to have impact."

"Of course. I should’ve known you’d have a strategy." Vincent chuckled. "We’ve been friends long enough. If something’s troubling you, you can tell me."

Evelyn met his eyes, understanding the unspoken offer. "Someone’s been trying to take control of AX. The recent sales drop isn’t just bad luck—it’s sabotage."

Vincent nodded grimly. "Ms. Carter, I suspect Ms. Sterling is involved. She’s been throwing her weight around, but now it’s clear there’s more to it."

Evelyn shrugged elegantly. "Do what you must. You’ve handled everything impeccably so far. Whatever you decide, I’ll support you."

As the show’s opening music began, they left the lounge together.

They hadn’t taken more than a few steps when a deep voice cut through the murmur of the crowd.

"Evelyn."

Her pulse stuttered. She turned, frowning.

Nathan strode toward them, his expression unreadable. The moment his gaze landed on Vincent, his jaw tightened. Vincent, sensing the tension, raised a brow.

"Friend of yours, Ms. Carter?"

Evelyn scoffed. "Hardly."

Nathan wasn’t one for social events—especially not something as frivolous as a jewelry show. His presence here could only mean one thing: that insufferable admirer of his had dragged him along.

Nathan stopped before them, his attention fixed solely on Evelyn.

"Aren’t you going to introduce us?"

Evelyn arched a brow. "I don’t see why. Blackwood Industries has no stake in jewelry. Your circles don’t overlap."

Nathan’s lips thinned, but he didn’t retreat. Instead, he extended a hand to Vincent.

"Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Windsor."

Vincent shook his hand, unfazed. "Likewise, Mr. Blackwood. I wasn’t aware you knew Ms. Carter."

Nathan’s grip tightened imperceptibly. "If you were close to her, you’d know exactly who I am."

Vincent’s eyes narrowed as he matched the pressure. The handshake became a silent battle of wills.

Nathan didn’t know what had come over him. He wasn’t usually this petty.

But something about seeing Evelyn with another man—especially one who looked at her like that—made his blood run hot.