Chapter 274

Alexander snapped back to reality as Sebastian approached him.

Evelyn walked past, leaving behind a delicate floral fragrance that lingered in the air. Her scent was intoxicating, uniquely hers.

"Alexander." Sebastian greeted him with effortless grace, every movement exuding aristocratic refinement.

Alexander's icy gaze flickered between their intertwined hands before looking away.

Evelyn met Alexander's stare briefly before turning to Sebastian with a radiant smile. "Shall we go inside, Sebastian?"

"Of course." Sebastian's gentle smile never wavered as he led Evelyn into the grand parlor.

Margaret Blackwood was finishing a call when she spotted them. Her lips curled in disdain as she hung up abruptly.

"Well, if it isn't Sebastian," she drawled, her eyes darting to Evelyn. "Tell me you're not seriously considering marrying this... woman."

Sebastian's polite smile tightened. "As my elder, I expect basic courtesy. The lady you're referring to happens to be my fiancée."

Margaret scoffed loudly, turning toward Alexander. "Do you hear this? Your uncle wants to marry your ex-wife's doppelgänger! How pathetic!"

She deliberately raised her voice as Henry Blackwood descended the staircase.

"Sebastian, now I understand why you were always so concerned about Evelyn during your visits. You had feelings for her back then, didn't you? The moment she died, you went searching for a replacement. How desperate."

Alexander's jaw clenched as memories surfaced—Evelyn and Sebastian's closeness that had once made his blood boil with jealousy.

"Grandfather, look at this farce!" Margaret continued. "He wants to marry this Evelyn lookalike in seven days! The resemblance is sickening—"

"Enough!" Henry's voice thundered through the hall.

Margaret pursed her lips, rolling her eyes dramatically.

"I will never approve this marriage!"

"I'm not here for permission," Sebastian countered coolly, his usually composed features darkening. "Merely to inform my family."

Evelyn squeezed his hand gently. "Don't upset yourself, darling. Their opinions mean nothing. Marrying you is the greatest joy of my life."

Sebastian turned, his gaze softening. "No, I'm the fortunate one." His fingers intertwined with hers as he gazed at her with such devotion it made her breath catch.

Henry studied them intently. "Are you both certain about this? No regrets?"

Evelyn turned confidently. "Absolutely."

Henry's brow furrowed as he examined Evelyn's face, concern flickering in his aged eyes. "Very well. You have my blessing."

"I object." Alexander's voice cut through the room like ice.