Chapter 301

The breeze carried Evelyn's words through the air like a whispered secret.

Rosalind's face stiffened instantly. That feminine intuition women possessed never lied. She understood exactly what Evelyn meant - this was a clear declaration of war over Nathan.

The audacity of this woman, staking her claim so boldly right in front of her.

"Ms. Summers, you seem pale. Are you feeling unwell?" Evelyn feigned concern with perfect innocence.

Rosalind forced a tight smile. "If you truly value your relationship with Nathan, I hope you'll cherish it properly."

"Don't worry about that, Ms. Summers." Evelyn's eyes glinted with challenge. "I don't plan on leaving any room for competition."

And by competition, she meant Rosalind herself.

Evelyn walked past her, satisfaction curling in her chest at the sight of Rosalind's crumbling composure.

Rosalind's expression darkened like storm clouds gathering. How had this woman survived every trap set for her? That incompetent Winifred had failed spectacularly, but did Evelyn really think she could stop true love?

Pulling out her phone with trembling fingers, Rosalind typed a message: [Investigate the Vanderbilts immediately!]

Evelyn descended the stairs with her documents when she nearly collided with Nathan and Harrison. The latter looked like a guilty schoolboy caught cheating and hastily excused himself.

Nathan's eyes sparkled with amusement as he advanced toward her, each step measured and deliberate in that confident stride of his.

Evelyn found herself backing up until her shoulders met the wall.

He caged her in with his arms, his laughter rich and warm. "Put Rosalind in her place, did we?"

Evelyn remained silent.

"Told her you're in love with me?"

Still no response.

"And that no other woman stands a chance?" His deep voice wrapped around her like velvet, his masculine presence overwhelming.

Evelyn drew a sharp breath. "It was just a joke. I couldn't tolerate her arrogance, so-"

So Harrison had been playing spy. Typical.

Nathan arched an eyebrow. "But did you mean it?" He wasn't interested in explanations.

Evelyn steadied her voice. "Why are you making such a big deal out of this?"

Just as she tried to slip away, his arm snaked around her waist, pulling her back. "Answer the question."

"Nathan, we're in public!" She prayed no one would witness this scene.

"Fine, my shy little Zoe." He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, grinning. "I'll take your words at face value then."

Her admission - both the love confession and the possessive claim - had sent his heart soaring.

"How are the results?" Nathan smoothly changed topics, glancing at her documents. A proud smile curved his lips. "Impressive. Such hard work deserves proper compensation."

Evelyn snatched the papers back. "I don't want your rewards."

His chuckle was warm with affection. "Zoe, you'll have to learn to accept what I give you. Besides our children, I'll soon be your family - your lawfully wedded husband."

Family. The word struck Evelyn with unexpected force. Marriage to Nathan meant more than just vows - it meant a complete home for their three children.

She wouldn't be alone anymore. Hidden behind a pillar, Felix Boucher eavesdropped with wide, shocked eyes.