Chapter 491

The moment Evelyn stopped speaking, a sharply dressed man emerged from behind her carrying an ornate silver case. He stepped forward with practiced elegance and opened the lid to reveal a delicate Nine Dragon jade cup resting on velvet lining.

Everyone in attendance knew Wesley Donovan's legendary obsession with Victorian-era artifacts - a passion so intense he'd once bankrupted a competitor at auction to obtain a single teacup.

Wesley's eyes lit up with genuine delight. "Please convey my deepest gratitude to Mr. Henry. This gift is truly magnificent." He gestured for an attendant to receive the precious artifact.

Evelyn accepted a champagne flute from a passing waiter and raised it toward their host. Crystal clinked against crystal as glasses met.

Murmurs rippled through the crowd. "So she really is Alice Henry?"

"Why the mask though? Some disfigurement perhaps?"

"Mr. Henry guards his daughter's privacy fiercely. Not even the paparazzi have gotten a clear photo. Always that damned mask."

Evelyn ignored the whispers, steering the conversation toward business. "Mr. Donovan, regarding our proposed partnership-"

Wesley chuckled, cutting her off. "Ms. Henry, I'm afraid you're too late. The Ashton Group has already committed to another investor."

Her grip tightened imperceptibly on the champagne flute, though her expression remained perfectly composed. "How unfortunate. Might I inquire who secured this opportunity before me?"

"An old friend from Zlokova," Wesley said without hesitation. "Mr. Goldmann and I reached an agreement earlier this evening."

The name struck Evelyn like a physical blow. Her breath caught as Wesley gestured across the room. "Ah, here he comes now."

Evelyn turned slowly, her champagne flute trembling slightly. The sight that greeted her sent ice through her veins.

Nathan sat in a wheelchair, his once-familiar features now sharper, more angular with time. The black tailored suit accentuated his broad shoulders, giving him an air of dangerous elegance. A team of black-suited bodyguards maintained a protective perimeter while Oliver pushed the wheelchair.

The mask might fool strangers, but not those who'd known her intimately.

Oliver's eyes widened in recognition. Evelyn Vanderbilt stood before them in disguise.

Wesley made introductions. "Mr. Goldmann, allow me to present Ms. Alice Henry, daughter of the renowned Mr. Henry."

All eyes locked onto Evelyn, especially Oliver's, which burned with unanswered questions.

Nathan's gaze flickered momentarily before his usual icy composure returned. Evelyn steadied herself, offering a polite smile. "Mr. Goldmann. I've heard much about your business acumen."

Her tone carried the polite detachment of strangers, belying their shared history.

The corner of Nathan's mouth twitched. "Have you now? I'm flattered."

That voice - deep and resonant - sent unwelcome memories flooding back. Nights spent wrapped in those velvet tones, whispered endearments, promises broken.

Evelyn shoved the recollections aside, turning to set down her glass. A waiter bumped her elbow abruptly, sending champagne cascading down her silk sleeve.