Chapter 41

Nathaniel's sleek black car came to a smooth stop by the curb. A swarm of paparazzi immediately trained their lenses on the vehicle.

The door swung open.

Nathaniel emerged first, his broad shoulders filling out the tailored navy suit perfectly. The dark fabric accentuated his chiseled jawline and piercing gaze.

Right behind him, a pair of designer heels clicked against the pavement.

Victoria Sinclair stepped out gracefully, her ivory gown flowing like liquid moonlight. She adjusted her diamond bracelet with practiced elegance.

Evelyn Carter watched the scene unfold from a distance. Her breath hitched when she saw them together.

Of course they'd arrive as a couple. The media had been calling them "the golden pair" for years.

She forced her expression neutral, though her nails dug into her palms.

At that moment, another car door opened nearby.

"Harrison Sinclair is here!" a photographer shouted.

The media frenzy intensified instantly. Cameras flashed like strobe lights as reporters surged forward.

Harrison rarely made public appearances outside film projects. No commercials. No interviews. His sudden presence here was breaking news.

"Mr. Sinclair! Are you here for the competition?"

"Harrison! Is this business or pleasure?"

The actor remained composed, one hand resting on the car door. "Personal matter," he said smoothly. "Now if you'll excuse me, my companion needs to exit."

The crowd shuffled back eagerly. Who was Harrison Sinclair bringing to this event? A new romantic interest?

Inside the car, Evelyn froze. She hadn't expected this media circus. Her stomach twisted into knots.

She peeked through the tinted window. Nathaniel and Victoria stood barely twenty feet away, looking every inch the power couple.

This was a disaster.

Harrison knocked lightly on the window. "Problem?" His deep voice carried through the glass.

Evelyn swallowed hard. No escaping now.

She smoothed her champagne-colored dress, took a steadying breath, and pushed the door open.

"Mind your head," Harrison murmured, shielding her from the frame with his palm.

The cameras exploded with activity. This was the shot of the year - reclusive superstar Harrison Sinclair being tenderly protective of a mystery woman.

Evelyn blinked against the flashing lights, momentarily blinded.

Harrison didn't hesitate. He clasped her hand firmly and guided her through the chaos toward the venue entrance.

Once inside the secure area, Evelyn finally exhaled. "Why were they photographing you like that?" she whispered.

Harrison shrugged. "Mistaken identity. Happens all the time." His tone was light, but his eyes darted toward the lingering press.

Evelyn almost believed him - until she felt the weight of someone's stare.

She turned instinctively.

Nathaniel's dark gaze pinned her in place from across the lobby. His expression was unreadable, but his jaw looked tight enough to crack walnuts.

Evelyn quickly looked away, focusing on finding her seat assignment.

Meanwhile, Nathaniel remained rooted to his spot, watching his wife walk away with another man. His fingers flexed at his sides.

The champagne dress suited her. He'd always thought so.

Then his attention shifted to Harrison's hand still resting at the small of Evelyn's back.

His eyes turned glacial.