Chapter 360

Evelyn ended the call, mentally cursing Nathaniel for the hundredth time.

She hadn't anticipated his sudden business trip today—the perfect excuse for why he couldn't wait for her.

Her fingers brushed over the gentle curve of her abdomen, where two tiny heartbeats pulsed beneath her skin.

Eleanor had undergone surgery just days ago, right when Penelope had been fishing for information, probing to confirm Evelyn's pregnancy.

Though Evelyn had managed to deflect her suspicions, who knew what reckless scheme Penelope might attempt next?

All Evelyn could do was hope Penelope would come to her senses.

Just then, her phone buzzed.

"Evelyn, I'm here!"

A small smile tugged at her lips. No matter what Penelope plotted, there was always another path—Bern City awaited, a fresh start just within reach.

"On my way," she typed back.

Christopher glanced at his phone, grinning at Julian. "Evelyn's coming. Never picked my sister up from school before. Think she’ll like the gift?"

Julian’s gaze flicked to the elaborately wrapped box in the backseat. He stayed silent.

He wanted to remind Christopher that Evelyn wasn’t a child anymore, but his protests had fallen on deaf ears during the drive.

With a resigned sigh, Julian stepped out of the car.

Out of sight, out of mind.

Then he froze.

A familiar figure stood near the gates—Jonathan Reeves.

Julian’s eyes narrowed at the bouquet of red roses in Jonathan’s hands. Were those for Evelyn?

Jonathan’s infatuation was no secret. He’d been hovering around Evelyn, offering help at every turn.

If not for Jonathan’s intervention during Evelyn’s kidnapping, Julian would’ve already warned him to stay away.

Jonathan, pacing restlessly, suddenly stiffened, sensing a sharp gaze on him.

His head snapped up—and locked eyes with Julian.

A spark of hope lit in Jonathan’s expression. If he couldn’t win Evelyn’s heart directly, maybe winning over her brothers was the next best thing?

Without hesitation, he strode forward. "Mr. Montgomery! Here to pick up Evelyn?"

Julian responded with a noncommittal hum. "And you? Those roses for your girlfriend?"

Jonathan rubbed the back of his neck, feigning bashfulness. "Actually, they’re for Evelyn. Didn’t expect to run into you today. Might as well be honest—I’ve liked her for a long time."

He straightened, voice earnest. "I want to give her the world. Take care of her forever. I hope you’ll support us."

Julian’s jaw tightened. Every instinct screamed at him to knock that hopeful look off Jonathan’s face.

Then Christopher’s icy voice cut in.

"Forever?"

A moment ago, Christopher had been buzzing with excitement about surprising Evelyn. Now?

His expression darkened.

He’d made plenty of empty promises himself—but never kept a single one.

Christopher knew men like Jonathan all too well.

Jonathan blinked at the newcomer, then extended a hand. "You must be another brother! Nice to meet you. I’m serious about Evelyn. I will take care of her."

Christopher scoffed. "Oh? And how? You making seven figures a year?"