Chapter 262

Nathaniel's jaw clenched as the memory replayed in his mind. He had suspected Julian's inappropriate interest in Evelyn from the beginning, and this incident only proved him right.

This wasn't just casual flirtation. It was deliberate pursuit.

Evelyn cleared her throat softly. "Nathaniel, I'm sure Julian didn't mean anything by it."

"What do you mean 'didn't mean anything'?" Nathaniel's voice turned sharp. "Stay away from him, Evelyn. He's older, divorced, and already planning his next marriage."

"Aside from his wealth, he has nothing to offer. Don't let yourself be swayed by empty gestures."

Evelyn nearly rolled her eyes at Nathaniel's warning. "Relax, I'm not falling for him."

She had learned her lesson well enough. Never again would she let herself be fooled.

"Good." Nathaniel exhaled in relief.

He had genuinely feared Evelyn might be charmed by Julian's extravagant displays. Most women were vulnerable to such tactics.

The medical examination concluded quickly, and Evelyn was moved to a regular ward.

Soon after, an elaborate meal arrived, making Evelyn's stomach growl.

Nathaniel frowned. "I didn't order this."

Julian stepped into the room, his gaze lingering on Evelyn before he shrugged. "I picked something at random from the menu. Eat whatever you like."

Evelyn froze, fork in hand. She hadn't expected Julian to arrange this.

Nathaniel's lips thinned. Forcing a smile, he turned to Julian. "Evelyn needs rest. Why don't we step outside?"

Julian smirked. "I don't think we have anything to discuss."

He had no interest in conversing with his rival.

Evelyn tensed, worried Julian might slip and reveal something.

If Nathaniel found out she had been disowned by the Whitmores—and worse, that she was carrying Julian's child—it would spell disaster.

She quickly set her fork down. "Actually, I'd prefer some fruit."

Nathaniel softened instantly. "Of course. What kind? I'll get it for you."

"Anything seasonal is fine," she replied.

He nodded, but his expression hardened when he turned back to Julian. "Don't disturb her for too long. She needs rest."

Julian bristled at the command. Who did Nathaniel think he was?

Once Nathaniel left, Julian scoffed. "So, he's the one you chose? Seems attentive enough, I suppose."

Evelyn took another bite before responding. "Thank you. My taste in men has clearly improved."

Julian clenched his jaw. "I shouldn't have interfered."

He had no desire to watch Evelyn grow closer to someone else.

"By the way," Evelyn hesitated, "I heard your engagement with Victoria was called off. Is that true?"

Julian remained impassive. "Yes."

"Does that affect Eleanor's surgery?"

Confusion flickered in his eyes. Hadn't Evelyn convinced Nathaniel to handle the surgery? Why was she bringing this up now?

Footsteps echoed outside the door.

Alexander barged in first, only to freeze when he saw Julian already inside.

The tension between them was palpable. Five against one.

The standoff was unmistakable.