Chapter 417

"Zoe, stop—" Nathan's voice was low and dangerous, like a predator rousing from centuries of slumber. His entire aura shifted, becoming electrifyingly intense.

Yet Evelyn continued her reckless teasing, her fingers tracing patterns along his collarbone.

Though every fiber of his being burned with desire, he clenched his jaw, struggling to maintain control. "You've developed quite the mischievous streak."

"People change." Evelyn's arms wound around his neck, her crimson lips curving into a provocative smile. "Why don't you beg me?"

Nathan exhaled sharply, his restraint crumbling as he captured her lips in a searing kiss. "Fine," he growled against her mouth. "I'm begging."

The next morning—

Evelyn had just finished applying her signature winged eyeliner when a sharp knock interrupted her routine.

Chloe opened the suite door to reveal a hotel attendant holding an exquisite violet gift box. "Compliments of Mr. Goldmann for the lady of the suite."

Accepting the package, Chloe turned to find Evelyn emerging from the bedroom. "What's that?"

"From Nathan," Chloe said with a knowing smirk. "Shall we see what the dragon of Wall Street sent his queen?"

Evelyn's fingers trembled slightly as she untied the silk ribbon—Nathan had mentioned a surprise before leaving at dawn.

The box revealed a breathtaking gown that shimmered like liquid gold. Nestled in the folds lay a handwritten card:

[You'll outshine every star tonight.]

At the Viana Jewelry Exhibition—

The red carpet buzzed with energy as security struggled to contain the throngs of photographers. Media outlets jostled for prime positions to capture the glittering procession of celebrities.

Lucas Abascal made his entrance arm-in-arm with a Scandinavian supermodel, flashbulbs erupting around them like fireworks.

The venue itself was a spectacle—crystal chandeliers cast prismatic light over guests adorned in haute couture, each more dazzling than the last.

Then Evelyn arrived.

Gasps rippled through the crowd. "Who is she?" "That embroidery—is that real gold thread?" "Look at those phoenix earrings!"

Her ensemble was a masterpiece of East-meets-West design—a fitted gold bustier flowing into a dramatic train embroidered with an ascending phoenix. Delicate golden bells tinkled at her waist with each step, while tiered tassel earrings framed her sharp cheekbones.

Madam Nora entered shortly after with Lucas. The designer's eyes widened appreciatively. "Ms. Zara, you're a walking work of art."

"You flatter me," Evelyn demurred, though her gaze kept scanning the crowd.

Dominic Kent materialized from the sea of guests, his Prussian blue suit cutting a sharp contrast. "I never imagined you cleaned up so well, Ms. Zara. No wonder—" He left the implication hanging like a challenge.

Evelyn's smile didn't reach her eyes. "Careful, Mr. Kent. Your compliments sound suspiciously like threats."

As guests settled into their seats, a familiar heat pressed against Evelyn's back. Nathan's breath ghosted over her ear as his hand settled possessively on her waist.

"Break a leg tonight, Ms. Vanderbilt." His lips brushed her earlobe. "But remember—you're mine."