Chapter 667

Preston Sinclair had seeped into Evelyn's life like sunlight through stained glass - warm, persistent, and impossible to ignore.

He didn't know when this obsession started. Maybe it was the way his love for her defied logic, burning brighter than any obstacle Nathan Blackwood threw between them.

The moment Preston left, Evelyn lingered in the winter air, letting the cold sober her thoughts before returning inside.

Sterling Manor buzzed with holiday cheer.

William Sterling had rolled up his sleeves, helping young Oliver Sinclair and the butler prepare dinner. Lucas tossed Evelyn an apron with a mischievous wink.

She followed him into the kitchen, though neither expected her to actually cook. Lucas worked on dessert while Evelyn leaned against the counter, arms crossed.

"So," Lucas smirked, "what did Preston say out there?"

Evelyn's lips pursed. The memory of that kiss sent heat crawling up her neck. "None of your business."

"Just warning you," Lucas said, "Dad might adore Oliver, but that doesn't mean he'll welcome Preston with open arms. The Sterling heiress marrying a single dad? The tabloids would have a field day."

Evelyn scoffed. "Since when do I care about society's opinion? My love life is my own."

"Fine, fine," Lucas raised flour-dusted hands. "True love conquers all." His exaggerated gagging motion made Evelyn roll her eyes.

"There's nothing between us," she lied.

Lucas paused mid-stir. "It's New Year's Eve. Shouldn't you check on your... friends?"

Evelyn smirked. Friends? Or Natalie? So this was his real agenda.

"If you miss Natalie, just say it. You can visit her yourself."

Lucas slammed down his whisk. "Unacceptable! You took my black card and did nothing? She's alone tonight - as her best friend, you should invite her!"

Guilt pricked Evelyn. Beneath Lucas's casual facade, she saw the desperation he'd hidden since their breakup.

"But what if she's with Adrian?"

Lucas's glare could've melted steel. "He's in Paris for fashion week. She's completely alone."

The unspoken accusation hung between them: You've neglected your best friend.

Evelyn pulled out her phone. "I'll call her. Don't worry, I'll bring her here myself."

Natalie answered on the second ring.

"Come to Sterling Manor for New Year's," Evelyn demanded.

"No thanks. I'm traveling."

Evelyn saw through the lie. "The anniversary of your mother's passing is tomorrow. You wouldn't leave town. We're having relatives over - you won't be the only guest."

Silence. Then a quiet, "Fine. I'll come alone. No need to fetch me."

As Evelyn hung up, she remembered past holidays when Natalie would celebrate with her grandmother. After the old woman's death and the messy breakup with Lucas, Natalie had stopped coming altogether.

That failed relationship still haunted her.

Lucas appeared instantly, boyish hope lighting his face. "Well? Is she coming?"