Chapter 799

Theodore coughed violently at the mention of Preston Sinclair's name.

His finger pressed the automatic window control. Sunlight flooded the car, bright and relentless. Evelyn Sinclair instinctively shut her eyes against the glare.

Memories rushed back—the last thing she remembered before falling asleep. Oh... This is Nathan's car...

When she opened her eyes again, Nathan Blackwood's dark, stormy expression filled her vision. His jaw was clenched, eyes burning with suppressed fury. Without a word, he shoved the car door open and stepped out.

The Sterling family's entourage emerged from their vehicles. Nathan straightened his suit jacket and gave a curt nod. "Alexander."

Alexander Sterling's mouth twisted. His mood had been foul since discovering Evelyn sneaked off to Sandford without telling anyone. By the time he'd tracked her down, it was too late.

Then came the news—Nathan had taken her. Cut off all contact with the Sterlings.

They'd burned through favors to access highway surveillance before pinpointing her location.

Nathan had been driving circles around downtown. The man was unhinged. "Mr. Blackwood, you're clearly preoccupied. That little online scandal must not concern you."

Alexander's tone was ice. Nathan ignored the hostility, offering a polite smile instead.

Of all the Sterling brothers, Alexander's temperament most mirrored Nathan's. That earned him Nathan's respect.

And as Evelyn's eldest brother? Even more so. "What's done is done. We can only treat it as a warning—no rewrites. Though I've caused you unnecessary trouble, Alexander."

Nathan's repeated use of his first name made Alexander's eye twitch.

"If you truly wish to avoid causing trouble, stay away from my sister. Your family's harassment has already put her in danger." Had Evelyn not orchestrated her own revenge—had she not been satisfied with the outcome—Alexander wouldn't have let this end with Sophia Blackwood's exile.

Nathan remained calm. "I'll visit Sterling Manor to apologize."

"Don't bother. My family would prefer your absence." The disrespect was deliberate. Nathan's expression darkened.

Tension thickened the air.

Then—a soft, sleepy voice. "Brother... carry me."

Nathan turned. Evelyn stretched her arms toward Alexander, who instantly softened. He bent, lifting her from the car.

Seeing her unharmed—cheeks flushed, eyes bright—eased Alexander's anger.

Nathan watched the stark contrast between how Evelyn treated him versus her brother. He swallowed the bitter jealousy. Alexander is family. This is normal.

As Alexander walked past, Nathan didn't stop him. He could've taken Evelyn back. Could've locked her away in his world.

But that wasn't what he wanted.

He wanted her standing beside him—willingly. As equals. Loved. Cherished. Their bond unbreakable. He'd had her once. He'd have her again.

"Evelyn." Her name tore from him. He couldn't let her leave so easily.

Alexander paused but didn't turn.

Evelyn glanced back. Her gaze was sharp, clear. Nathan's chest ached.

Even if the words made him cringe, they needed saying. His voice was low, rough with emotion. "There's no room in my heart for anyone else... not with you in it."