Chapter 88

Evelyn had intended to claim the front passenger seat, but found herself at a loss for words when Nathan's piercing gaze stopped her mid-motion. Reluctantly sliding into the backseat, she barely had time to settle before Oliver turned with that infuriating grin.

"Good morning, Mrs. Goldmann."

Her fingers curled into fists. "Mrs. Goldmann my— Just drive!" The rest of her retort died on her lips as Caleb's innocent eyes met hers in the rearview mirror.

Oliver's lips formed an exaggerated pout.

'Ms. Vanderbilt's temper matches her fiery hair. Mr. Goldmann certainly has his hands full.'

Nathan's heated stare swept over her ensemble. Even in professional attire, Evelyn carried an effortless chic. The sleek black blouse paired with her asymmetrically split skirt created a striking contrast against her burgundy heels. Matching statement earrings completed the look with understated elegance.

Under his intense scrutiny, Evelyn shifted uncomfortably. The moment their conspicuous Maybach pulled up at Zlokova Royal Music Academy's entrance, dozens of heads turned. Several parents immediately recognized the legendary 9999 license plate.

"Isn't that Mr. Goldmann's car?"

"The one worth more than my house!"

Bassburgh's most exclusive license plate belonged to only one man. The same man whose silver Rolls-Royce and limited Pagani hypercar carried equally obscenely priced plates.

'We're witnessing royalty today.'

Evelyn massaged her temples as curious onlookers pressed closer. "Being seen with you is like walking through a paparazzi gauntlet."

Caleb bounded out, turning back with a wave. "Mommy! Daddy! I'm going in now!"

Her forced smile barely concealed her discomfort when her phone buzzed. Before she could check the notification, Nathan snatched it from her grasp.

"Give that back!" She lunged across the seat just as Oliver slammed the brakes at a red light. Momentum sent her tumbling into Nathan's lap.

Scrambling back to her seat, she glared at Oliver. "Are you trying to kill us?"

"Traffic laws exist for a reason, Ms. Vanderbilt," Oliver replied smoothly. "Unless you'd prefer I run the light?"

Nathan's smirk burned hotter than his grip on her phone. "Enjoying the view?"

Her face flamed when she realized where her hand had landed. "Hardly impressive," she lied, smoothing her skirt with trembling fingers.

The knowing glint in Nathan's eyes said he didn't believe her for a second. Then his expression darkened as he read her screen. "Care to explain who this 'dbag' is?"

Evelyn's stomach dropped. Sophia's ill-timed reply to last night's venting session glared back at her. Under Nathan's murderous gaze, inspiration struck.

She leaned in, fingers playing with his collar. "It's internet slang, darling. When women call someone 'dbag,' it's actually a term of endearment." Her saccharine smile didn't reach her eyes.

Oliver's shoulders shook with suppressed laughter until Nathan's glacial stare silenced him. The distraction gave Evelyn just enough time to wrench open the door and sprint down the sidewalk without looking back.