Chapter 669

Evelyn's expression froze. This can't be happening...

To elevate Donovan, Father was willing to diminish everyone else's accomplishments?

William Sterling beamed with paternal pride. "Donovan is my greatest achievement."

He turned to Emily with twinkling eyes. "Out of all possible suitors, you chose my son. That speaks volumes about your exceptional judgment!"

The forced smiles around the table grew more strained. Even Donovan's usual composure cracked, his lips twitching slightly. "Father, I've already introduced everyone to Emily."

William clapped his hands together. "Splendid! Consider this your home, Emily. We mustn't disappoint such a brilliant young woman." His eyes crinkled with excitement. "Right after New Year's, we'll host the most extravagant wedding Montecito has ever seen!"

Emily's smile wavered. "That's... rather soon?"

Since when did marrying into high society require no vetting process? Why does this feel like a trap?

Donovan shot her a meaningful look. "Given our demanding careers, expediency is logical." His tone left no room for argument.

William nodded approvingly. He'd resigned himself to Donovan's perpetual bachelorhood—who'd have guessed an accomplished woman would willingly take on his eccentric son? Best secure this miracle before she came to her senses.

The arrival of relatives interrupted the awkward moment. Charles Sterling, still recovering from Genevieve Dawson's betrayal, entered with renewed vigor after his worldwide sabbatical funded by William's discreet stock investments.

William rose to greet them, then pinned Evelyn with a meaningful stare. "Make Emily feel welcome."

Of his children, only Evelyn possessed the necessary social grace. Alexander's intimidating presence would send any sane woman fleeing, while Lucas specialized in chaos.

Evelyn obediently slid beside Emily. "So... how exactly did you fall for my brother?"

Emily's lashes fluttered downward, stealing shy glances at Donovan. The adoration radiating from her gaze made Evelyn's skin prickle.

"Working with The Genius was life-changing. I still can't believe he noticed someone like me."

Evelyn's brows shot up. Donovan smirked. "You're partially responsible, little sister."

Initially, he'd found Emily's intellectual shortcomings unbearable—anyone scoring below his exacting standards was irredeemable. But after several corrections, she'd demonstrated unexpected aptitude.

William summoned Donovan outside just as Alexander's phone erupted again. He excused himself to take the call, leaving Lucas to corner Evelyn.

"You're letting Mavis get married first?" Lucas hissed, gripping her arm. "You stole my credit cards and now condemn me to eternal singledom?"

Evelyn freed herself with a practiced twist, waving toward the doorway. "Natalie's here!"

Lucas instantly transformed into his aloof celebrity persona. Seizing the distraction, Evelyn dragged Emily toward the gardens.

Lucas rolled his eyes. Definitely adopted.

Among the rose bushes, Emily finally relaxed. "I prepared for weeks—imagined your father handing me a blank check to disappear." She laughed nervously. "Affluent families usually have... expectations."

Evelyn studied the brilliant AI scientist who'd somehow fallen for her socially awkward brother. The pieces didn't quite fit.

Somewhere between the champagne and forced merriment, a dangerous realization took root—this fairytale romance might be the most elaborate algorithm Donovan had ever engineered.