Chapter 430

Alistair studied Evelyn's delicate features. The more he observed her, the stronger his attraction grew.

Though half-Indian himself, he'd never been drawn to women of his own heritage.

His preferences leaned toward Caucasian beauty, just like his father's.

Evelyn's petite frame and porcelain complexion captivated him completely.

Her apparent disinterest didn't discourage Alistair.

He understood winning a woman's heart required patience and strategy.

This wasn't about a fleeting encounter - he was playing the long game.

Noticing the women's deliberate exclusion of him, he smoothly changed tactics. "I'm rather new to this country, Evelyn," he said with practiced charm. "Perhaps an English name would help me fit in better? I'm struggling to choose one."

Olivia and Abigail munched on snacks while watching Alistair's attempts to charm Evelyn with amusement.

'Our CEO has competition!'

'Evelyn's allure strikes again!'

'This passionate newcomer seems smitten. Wonder what Dominic will think?'

Evelyn considered his polite request. "What style of name appeals to you?"

Alistair shrugged dramatically. "They all carry such historical weight. I'm at a loss."

Abigail cracked another peanut. "You speak perfect English! Don't play modest, Alistair!"

Olivia selected a watermelon slice. "That's quite the outdated pickup line. How about Godfrey or Orcus?" She barely suppressed a grin.

Abigail nearly choked on her drink.

Bewildered, Alistair scratched his head. "Are those names humorous? Why the laughter?"

Abigail composed herself. "General Godfrey Wellington was a renowned statesman. Brought prosperity, then got quartered." She paused. "That's when they tear a man limb from limb with horses..."

Alistair turned slightly green.

Evelyn added softly, "Viscount Orcus Hellinger was medieval royalty. Ambitious fellow - tried to overthrow the crown." She took a delicate bite of strawberry. "They sliced him 3,357 times over three days. His enemies ate the strips of flesh afterward."

"Urk—" Alistair barely reached the trash bin in time.

The women exchanged amused glances while Evelyn savored another strawberry - mindful of her pregnancy.

Three minutes of retching later, Alistair wiped his mouth weakly. "Must you discuss such gruesome topics at a party? Surely there are heroic names?"

Evelyn's lips curved. "There's one conqueror whose name starts with 'A' like yours. Built an enormous empire."

Alistair's eyes lit up. "Perfect! What's the name?"

"Adolf," Evelyn said sweetly.

"Adolf it is!" Alistair declared, slapping the table.

Abigail and Olivia collapsed into hysterics.

"What?" Alistair frowned. "Isn't it a good name?"

Through giggles, Abigail gasped, "Oh it's perfect! We'll call you Adolf from now on!"

Olivia's face turned crimson from suppressed laughter.

Evelyn's prank had been executed flawlessly.