Chapter 230

Evelyn was utterly speechless.

What could possibly frighten the ruthless business tycoon? The answer was simple - his wife's anger. But now, his greatest terror was his children forming unconventional opinions about him. It was enough to give him a heart attack.

Standing on the balcony, Evelyn spoke quietly into her phone. After listening to the response, she murmured, "Thank you, Mr. Zachary. Please keep this from my father."

The lawyer's voice crackled through the receiver before Evelyn nodded. "Very well, we'll continue this discussion tomorrow."

As she ended the call, Evelyn's gaze turned icy while surveying the city lights below. The true purpose of tonight's family dinner had become painfully clear to her.

Even with her father's unwavering support, it paled in comparison to the insatiable greed of Madam Victoria and York's family.

If they couldn't persuade Richard to relinquish control of Viana Jewelry, forceful measures would undoubtedly follow.

Then there were Laura and Vivian.

Laura had wisely chosen her allegiance this time, holding valuable leverage. Though Evelyn couldn't confirm Laura's collaboration with them, she'd uncovered something intriguing.

Strong arms suddenly encircled her waist. The thin fabric of her nightgown did little to shield her from the warmth radiating from the body pressed against her back.

"Facing the entire Vanderbilt clan alone must be exhausting. Why didn't you include me?" Nathan's voice carried a wounded tone.

If not for his familiar features and unchanged identity, Evelyn might have suspected an imposter stood behind her.

"Your intervention isn't necessary yet," Evelyn turned to face him. Stripped of his usual stern demeanor, his striking features appeared even more breathtaking.

Wait—why was she thinking he looked more attractive?

Nathan traced her lips with his finger, his eyes darkening. "Handle things your way. I'll manage the consequences."

Evelyn hesitated, breaking eye contact. "I understand, but could you—Mmph!"

Her protest was silenced as his lips captured hers. He'd anticipated her objection and refused to entertain it.

"Time for bed," he murmured, sweeping her into his arms toward their awaiting bed.

As his hands began exploring, Evelyn flushed. "Nathan, you said sleep—"

He remained firmly in control.

The night unfolded with its customary passion.

The following morning...

Evelyn met Mr. Zachary at an upscale café. The lawyer presented her with an equity transfer agreement. Seeing it matched her father's original document perfectly, satisfaction warmed her expression.

"Ms. Vanderbilt, may I ask why you require this particular document?" The lawyer couldn't fathom why Evelyn needed a replicated agreement.

Her gaze sharpened. "It serves my purposes. Perhaps it will help my father recognize certain truths about people around him."

Whatever schemes they devised, having this duplicate agreement provided reassurance.

A thought occurred to her, bringing a sly smile. "Mr. Zachary, there's another matter requiring your expertise."

The lawyer paused before nodding. "Of course, please elaborate."

Laura hadn't returned home the previous evening. When she finally appeared, she avoided Richard's questioning stare.

"Laura, where were you all night? Richard finally permitted your return with Vivian, yet you chose to stay elsewhere." Madam Victoria's displeasure at Laura's absence was palpable.