Chapter 689

Evelyn withdrew her hand with icy precision. Elders? What a joke. Did they really think moral obligations would work on her?

Not a chance. "Apologies, but I'm not feeling charitable today. Since we're family, I'll refrain from calling the authorities. However, I insist these so-called 'elders' vacate my property immediately. Otherwise, I'll have them charged with trespassing." The room held its breath, waiting for William to intervene.

But the patriarch was too furious to speak. Charles remained silent as well, wisely choosing not to involve himself. Just as the grand-aunt opened her mouth, Lucas cut in with biting sarcasm. "Are you all deaf? Should I call a cab to escort you out?"

"Lucas!" someone gasped. "Instead of advising your sister, you're encouraging her reckless behavior?"

They might not dare criticize Evelyn directly, but Lucas was fair game - especially after his all-night vigil. His responding laugh was razor-sharp. "Anyone else with complaints can leave too." He collapsed onto the sofa, done with their nonsense.

William massaged his temples, his expression stormy. "Evelyn, I'm retiring upstairs. Handle this... situation as you see fit." His exit spoke volumes.

With their patriarch gone, the interlopers lost their last ally. Evelyn and Lucas efficiently arranged their transportation. Dawn's first light found only Charles remaining, his frustration palpable.

"My estate is quite distant—" Lucas flashed a tired grin. "Uncle Charles, this isn't your circus. The guest suite is yours." Finally, blessed silence descended.

The only ones oblivious to the night's drama were Donovan and Emily, having retired early. Next morning, the entire household rose at dawn—except for Evelyn and Lucas.

Early visitors arrived while the siblings still slept. Lucas was notoriously indifferent to schedules, but Evelyn guarded her beauty sleep religiously—eight full hours, non-negotiable. Natalie, sharing Evelyn's bed, slept just as soundly.

Only when Leo's restlessness became unbearable did the AI tiger start bouncing on the bed. Evelyn groaned awake, dragging Natalie with her. The blonde pinched the synthetic feline's ear. "Can I teach this creature some manners?"

Leo twitched its whiskers. "Physical discipline is ineffective. I lack pain receptors."

Evelyn's sleepy chuckle filled the room. Both women applied face masks before venturing downstairs—unprepared for the scene awaiting them.

Evelyn froze mid-step. Nathan Blackwood sat in her living room like some specter from her past. Flanking him were Reginald Blackwood and Sophia Blackwood.

Time seemed to stutter. William nearly choked on his tea at their disheveled appearance. "Must you embarrass me in front of company?"

Evelyn and Natalie executed a perfect about-face. Nathan's lips quirked at the rare glimpse of a rumpled, vulnerable Evelyn—so different from her usual razor-sharp persona. Adorable, really.

Reginald waved off the impropriety. "Think nothing of it. Family needn't stand on ceremony."

William chose his words carefully. "I've indulged her too much. Your understanding is appreciated."

After sufficient primping, the women descended properly. Natalie exchanged pleasantries before Lucas commandeered her to admire his culinary efforts. Trapped by expectant stares, Evelyn defaulted to her trademark glacial composure.

New Year's visits between families were expected—but Sophia's presence was an unwelcome surprise. When Evelyn's gaze landed on her, the younger Blackwood woman actually stood.