Chapter 142

Evelyn finally released Nathaniel's collar. Her fingers lingered as she straightened his tie with a tenderness that felt surreal to him.

The gesture transported him back to their early days when she'd fuss over his appearance and ensure he ate properly.

A flicker of emotion crossed his features, momentarily erasing the memory of her hands around his throat moments earlier.

The door creaked open. Daniel emerged from the private room. "Evelyn."

His entire body tensed when he saw her standing so close to Nathaniel.

In three swift strides, Daniel inserted himself between them, breaking their proximity.

Nathaniel's expression darkened. Evelyn's fingers twitched nervously as she met Daniel's gaze. "Did everything go smoothly?"

"Payment's processed. They're delivering the necklace to the penthouse later." His hand found the small of her back. "Let's leave."

She nodded, deliberately avoiding Nathaniel's piercing stare.

Yet she could feel the weight of his gaze burning into her.

Daniel leveled Nathaniel with a cold look. "You're blocking the exit. Some people have better places to be."

Nathaniel's jaw clenched, his stance unmoving.

Evelyn tugged Daniel's sleeve. "There's another exit this way."

"Lead the way, darling." The warmth in Daniel's voice contrasted sharply with his earlier tone.

...

"Evelyn, we should get matching bracelets next! It'll complement the necklace perfectly."

"Or perhaps a whole new wardrobe to match? The boutique downstairs has stunning pieces."

...

Nathaniel watched their retreating figures, his brows drawn together.

With a frustrated tug, he loosened his tie further before turning to Robert. "Do women truly prefer men who spout meaningless flattery?"

Robert hesitated. "Generally speaking, women appreciate partners who understand romance. Thoughtful gestures go a long way."

Nathaniel scoffed. He stalked back toward the auction floor, his stormy expression clearing a path through the crowd.

Victoria materialized at his side. "Nathaniel, where have you been? Ms. Carter's companion purchased that emerald necklace."

His gaze followed where Daniel was fastening the jewel around Evelyn's neck.

Her radiant smile twisted something painful in Nathaniel's chest.

Victoria's lips curved knowingly. "Mr. Montgomery seems quite taken with Ms. Carter."

Penelope sniffed disdainfully. "As if someone like her could ever be a Montgomery! Victoria, will your cousins be attending your engagement? Does that mean Daniel will bring Evelyn?"

Victoria stiffened. "That's... undecided."

The truth was, she'd never secured invitations for the three Montgomery heirs.

In all these years, they'd never acknowledged her as part of their family.

That particular humiliation would die with her.

Penelope turned to Nathaniel. "The ceremony is this weekend. Perhaps we should limit guests? Evelyn might cause trouble."

Victoria exhaled quietly. Even Penelope's limited intellect proved occasionally useful.

Hope flickered in Victoria's eyes as she searched Nathaniel's face.

He met her with glacial detachment. "When will Julian be available?"

She blanched. "W-we're coordinating schedules. He's been terribly busy."

"I see." Nathaniel's voice turned to steel. "Then consider the engagement canceled."