Chapter 587

At the gates of Sterling Manor.

By sheer coincidence, William had just returned from his afternoon fishing trip.

The two former lovers crossed paths unexpectedly.

Nathan felt his pulse quicken. His social standing had risen significantly since their last encounter.

Evelyn remained perfectly composed. She stepped out of the car with little Oliver, immediately handing him off to the butler.

She wanted Nathan to leave immediately, but he stubbornly exited the vehicle.

His tailored suit accentuated his aristocratic bearing, the crisp lines enhancing his naturally aloof demeanor.

Evelyn cursed him silently as he strode confidently toward William's car.

He wouldn't miss this chance. Even risking her anger was worth meeting her family properly.

William remained seated, merely rolling down his window with a measured gaze.

"Mr. Blackwood."

Nathan bowed respectfully, as if greeting a respected elder.

"Chairman Sterling, good evening."

William chuckled, glancing at his clearly irritated daughter.

"Lucas took Evelyn out, but you went through the trouble of bringing her home. Much obliged."

"Think nothing of it."

William continued politely, "Would you care to come in for tea?"

He couldn't outright dismiss a guest.

Nathan seized the opportunity. "I'd be delighted. Thank you, Chairman Sterling."

Both William and Evelyn were rendered speechless.

Upon entering, Leo immediately analyzed the situation and came bounding over.

"Papa! I missed you!"

The robotic tiger cub clung to Nathan's polished shoes, attempting to climb up with its tiny paws.

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Ungrateful machine. After everything I've done for you!"

Nathan smiled warmly, scooping Leo up with one hand.

"Papa missed you too."

William nearly stumbled mid-step. Evelyn could only stare in disbelief.

The man had absolutely no shame.

They settled in the parlor where the butler served coffee and two glasses of warm milk.

The milk was for Evelyn and William.

William offered an apologetic smile. "Forgive our limited hospitality, Mr. Blackwood. At my age, caffeine disrupts my sleep. Evelyn maintains strict beauty routines."

Nathan stared at the steaming black coffee, forcing a polite smile.

"I actually prefer coffee in the evenings."

"How fortunate," Evelyn interjected, arching an eyebrow. "Since you enjoy it so much, do try our special blend."

Nathan's dark gaze locked onto hers.

"With pleasure."

If she insisted, he wouldn't refuse.

He lifted the cup, drinking the entire contents in several deliberate swallows.

Even William noticed something amiss.

Clearing his throat, he asked, "How's your family?"

"They're well, thank you."

"I heard about your... arrangement with that Ashford girl. Such a tragedy, her turning out to be a murderer. Your family must be devastated."

William mentioned the incident casually.

Nathan's smile remained polite. "Merely rumors, Chairman Sterling. We never intended marriage with that family. Her downfall brings us no sorrow."

"She lived in your home, yet you claim no marital intentions?" Evelyn lounged carelessly on the sofa. Without Nathan present, she'd have curled up comfortably.

Nathan looked directly at her, as if this explanation mattered most.

"Never. There's only one woman I wish to marry."

"You."

Evelyn yawned dramatically, signaling the conversation's end.

"Archibald, please see our guest out."