Chapter 658

Evelyn's words struck the Blackwoods like a slap. When she was married to Nathan Blackwood, they'd scrutinized every penny she spent. Now that they were divorced, Reginald Blackwood wanted to gift her something extravagant for New Year's? The irony wasn't lost on her.

The old man caught the mockery in her tone. His expression darkened, the creases between his brows deepening. Just as Evelyn braced for an outburst, he laughed instead. "We're still family, my dear. There's no need for such formality."

Evelyn arched a brow but didn't press further.

She glanced at Preston Sinclair, who smoothly stepped forward, his hand resting lightly on the small of her back. "Shall we?" he murmured. "Goodbye, Chairman Blackwood."

Their closeness didn't escape Reginald's notice. Preston Sinclair? Ha! As if he could ever compare to Nathan. The old man gestured sharply to an attendant. "Get Nathan here. Now."

The man nodded. "Right away, sir."

Evelyn suppressed a shiver at Preston's touch but kept her smile intact. Once inside, he withdrew his hand with practiced ease, brushing her arm instead. She exhaled, looping her arm through his with silent understanding.

The auction hall was dim, bathed in an air of mystery. A single spotlight illuminated the central podium, casting an expensive glow over the proceedings. It began in minutes.

Only three items were up for bidding. The first—a 16th-century vase—was predictably claimed by Reginald, who had a penchant for historical artifacts. The second item, however, piqued Evelyn's interest: a high-stakes contract.

Preston raised his bid without hesitation.

At $230 million, the competition dwindled. Few dared gamble on an unknown contract's risks.

"$230 million going once—"

"$300 million."

A cold, commanding voice cut through the room.

Nathan stood at the entrance, his presence alone parting the crowd. Whispers erupted.

"Mr. Blackwood?"

"Is he interested in this?"

The attendees instinctively cleared a path for him.

Preston didn't react—no frustration, no surprise. As if he'd expected this. Evelyn stayed silent.

Nathan's gaze lingered on her for a heartbeat before sliding to Preston, icy and lethal. Then, just as swiftly, he turned to the host.

"$300 million going once," the host announced.

Preston made no move to counter.

Evelyn frowned. "Aren't you bidding?"

He glanced down, amused. "Worried about me, Ms. Sinclair?"

"Aren't you?"

"Worrying won't change anything." His smile faded as he studied Nathan. His company's funds were frozen—this contract couldn't pass through his private accounts without scrutiny.

Nathan knew that.

Evelyn understood too. If Preston needed help, Sterling Enterprises could intervene—but he hadn't asked. She wouldn't offer.

"$300 million—sold!"