Chapter 657

New Year's Eve approached. Evelyn Sinclair delegated her corporate responsibilities and immersed herself in social engagements.

Pre-holiday events were deliberately kept light—everyone knew the real frenzy would begin after the New Year. Alexander Sterling managed their overseas ventures while Evelyn oversaw domestic operations.

William Sterling took Lucas and little Oliver shopping.

Paparazzi frequently spotted the A-list actor browsing high-end department stores across the city.

Donovan Sterling had rare downtime from his research lab, though holiday cheer eluded him. William made multiple calls just to ensure his brother would join the family celebration.

Finally, New Year's Eve arrived. Evelyn dismissed her staff early, becoming the first to leave Sterling Enterprises headquarters.

As she exited the building, Preston Sinclair stood waiting at the curb. Time hadn't diminished his gentle demeanor—still the picture of quiet sophistication that radiated calm. Yet Evelyn detected something darker lurking behind his composed smile.

She blinked, and the shadow vanished. Preston's lips curved. "I came to pick up Oliver, but my driver got held up. Mind giving me a ride?"

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. Of course she didn't mind.

Behind the wheel, Evelyn navigated through traffic while Preston fielded a call. His polite mask slipped briefly, irritation flashing across his features. "Now? Fine." Hanging up, he met her questioning gaze.

"Emergency?" she asked.

"A private auction just announced a piece from my wishlist."

Evelyn checked the clock. "We've got time. Let's swing by."

These exclusive auctions operated on whims—no set schedules, no public access. The items? Often priceless collectibles with mysterious provenance.

Preston's gratitude shone through. "Ms. Sinclair, your beauty is surpassed only by your kindness. May the new year bring you boundless joy."

Evelyn laughed. "I'd prefer boundless wealth, actually."

Preston's chuckle held genuine amusement. "Ever the pragmatist."

The auction venue—an elite members-only club—welcomed them after Preston flashed his credentials. The intimate crowd contained several familiar faces. Evelyn exchanged polite nods with acquaintances while scanning the room.

Her breath caught.

Reginald Blackwood held court across the space, surrounded by sycophants. The patriarch remained a formidable presence despite his age, his influence undiminished. A veritable wall of admirers orbited him.

Their eyes met.

The old man's piercing gaze narrowed as he approached. His displeasure at seeing Preston beside Evelyn flashed briefly before vanishing behind practiced charm. "Evelyn, what a surprise. And who's this? Another protege from Horizon Media?" The barb hid beneath superficial pleasantry.

Preston remained unruffled. "Preston Sinclair, sir. Finance, not film."

Evelyn's jaw tightened. This was deliberate provocation.

She offered a frosty nod and steered Preston away. Behind them, Reginald called out, "Give my regards to your father. I'll pay the Sterling estate a visit after the holidays."

Traditional New Year visits between business allies were customary. This year marked the first such exchange between their families—a consequence of their forced corporate alliance.

Evelyn swallowed her distaste. "You're always welcome, Chairman Blackwood."

"Should you see anything you fancy," the old man added magnanimously, "consider it my gift."

The paternalistic tone set Evelyn's teeth on edge. "Unnecessary. Our partnership is strictly transactional—no favors required."

The auctioneer's gavel fell. "Sold for three hundred million!"

Preston studied the proceedings with detached interest. "Concerned for me?" he murmured.

"Aren't you?"

"Worry changes nothing." His gaze flicked toward Nathan Blackwood across the room. With Preston's assets currently frozen and this contract requiring private funds—resources he couldn't access without scrutiny—bidding against Nathan was impossible.

Evelyn understood. Sterling Enterprises could intervene, but Preston hadn't asked. She wouldn't insult him by offering unrequested assistance.

The gavel fell again. "Sold!"