Chapter 439

At the mention of Sebastian Kingsley, Vivienne Laurent's eyes ignited with an almost fanatical devotion.

Evelyn Carter was momentarily stunned. She desperately wanted to know what Sebastian had done to inspire such unwavering loyalty in this woman.

He truly was a master of manipulation.

Outside.

Nathan Blackwood chain-smoked three cigarettes in the designated area, yet the suffocating weight in his chest refused to dissipate.

But with the auction about to commence, he had no choice but to drag his heavy heart back into the grand hall.

Nathan's tall, brooding figure emerged from the left corridor, his presence commanding yet tinged with melancholy.

Simultaneously, from the opposite end, a refined gentleman approached with effortless grace.

Their paths collided before the grand double doors.

The air crackled with tension as their gazes locked, an unspoken challenge passing between them.

Nathan's piercing glare met Alexander Whitmore's composed demeanor.

Alexander adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses with a practiced smile. "What a pleasant surprise, Mr. Blackwood. Here to support the charitable cause?"

Nathan's lips curved into a cool smirk. "Not as altruistic as you, I'm afraid. My contributions are... personal."

There was no mistaking who he meant.

Alexander's smile faltered slightly, his fingers tightening imperceptibly around his bidding paddle.

The night's main event—the charity auction—finally began.

There were two ways to participate: donating items for auction or engaging in competitive bidding.

All proceeds would go directly to the state's charitable fund, with complete transparency guaranteed.

This marked the fifteenth anniversary of Éclat magazine's prestigious charity gala, and anticipation hung thick in the air. Would Monarch Grand Hotels shatter previous donation records?

Nathan and Alexander's simultaneous entrance caused a stir, but tonight belonged to Evelyn. Neither man wished to overshadow her, so they took discreet seats in the front row, becoming little more than elegant background decor.

Unbeknownst to Evelyn, Alexander had arrived. She and Vivienne sat close, their heads bent together in animated conversation.

Isabelle Montgomery, seated several rows away, seethed with barely contained fury at the sight.

The auction commenced.

The emcee unveiled the first item—a breathtaking five-piece emerald diamond set from the private collection of Mrs. Whitmore herself.

Gasps of awe rippled through the crowd.

The very first lot was already staggeringly valuable, lending immense prestige to Evelyn's event.

Evelyn's eyes widened in shock. She instinctively turned to scan the room for Alexander.

Her gaze found his effortlessly—his refined features stood out even in the dim lighting.

Noticing her surprise, Alexander offered a subtle smile and a discreet wave.

Evelyn's crimson lips curved in response as she waved back.

Neither noticed Nathan watching their exchange, his grip tightening around his bidding paddle until the wood threatened to splinter. The burning ache in his throat matched the fire in his chest.