Chapter 631

The mall manager hesitated. Why was Preston Sinclair so determined to give this prize to a woman who'd tried refusing it earlier? His throat went dry as if walking toward his own execution.

"$50 million isn't small change," he croaked, licking his lips. "I'll need to consult with upper management—"

Evelyn Sinclair blinked slowly. "Aren't you the general manager? Can't make executive decisions?" She reached for her phone. "Shall I call your CEO instead?"

"Wait!" The manager's voice cracked. "Of course I can authorize this. Please provide your bank details, Miss Sinclair. The transfer will be completed within the hour."

His hands trembled as he processed the transaction. With Nathan Blackwood's men watching, refusing the prize would cost him his career.

Evelyn's smile never wavered as she handed over her information. "Thank you. This prize is... unexpectedly delightful."

The manager swore internally—never again would he organize such disastrous promotions.

Preston observed Evelyn's radiant expression as they exited. "Had your shopping delivered to the hotel?" Even he seemed impressed by her retail stamina.

"It should be waiting." Evelyn smirked. "Wonder how Mr. Blackwood will react."

She paused near a café. "Honestly, how does Blackwood Industries employ such incompetent people? That manager practically begged to be fired."

At precisely 8:00 PM, Bennett's message arrived—a photo of San Francisco's skyline illuminated with Nathan's demanded declaration: "Evelyn Sinclair thanks Nathan Blackwood, the most extraordinary man alive!"

The café's warm latte soothed her throat as she watched the citywide display. For sixty suspended seconds, every digital billboard broadcast her reluctant gratitude.

Across town in Blackwood Industries' tower, Nathan gazed through floor-to-ceiling windows. The moment the message flashed across downtown, tension melted from his shoulders.

Harrison exhaled in relief—his boss had been counting down to this moment all day.

"She does care," Nathan murmured, swirling merlot. His sharp profile softened under the golden light. "Before, my words meant nothing. Now she complies. That's progress."

Harrison bit his tongue. Since when did forced public declarations equal affection? But the dangerous glint in Nathan's eyes silenced any objections.