Chapter 838

No words were spoken aloud, but Evelyn understood Isabella's heart perfectly. Since Isabella remained silent, Evelyn chose to play ignorant.

Alexander Sterling's treatment of Isabella had always been purely based on her status as Evelyn's closest friend. His behavior toward her was no different than how he treated Natalie Beaumont.

Alexander remained indifferent to any woman who showed interest in him. Evelyn often thought it would be nearly impossible for him to ever settle down with anyone.

Yet what Evelyn witnessed today proved there might be exceptions - like Amelia Sinclair.

Isabella couldn't take it anymore. She suddenly doubled over, crouching down to hug her knees. Her shoulders trembled with silent, desperate sobs.

Evelyn sighed deeply.

Naturally, her loyalty lay with her best friend. But she couldn't force Alexander to return Isabella's feelings.

Evelyn crouched beside Isabella without speaking.

The sound of Isabella's crying stirred painful memories in Evelyn. A sharp, numbing ache pierced her heart.

Her eyes burned instantly.

Whoever fell in love first was destined to become the more vulnerable one.

When Evelyn first loved Nathan Blackwood, she'd been brave once - then spent three years humbling herself. Escaping that marriage had been excruciatingly difficult.

She'd offered her whole heart, expecting Nathan to see it and respond. He never did. Perhaps because he chose not to see it.

Suddenly, a shadow blocked the light before her. Evelyn looked up with reddened eyes, startled to find herself staring at the man looming over them. His dark, intimidating gaze pinned her in place. His long lashes framed eyes filled with stormy intensity as his voice turned dangerously low. "Who hurt you?"

Of all people to encounter at this moment - Nathan Blackwood. Evelyn couldn't hide the vulnerability in her eyes fast enough. This was the last person she wanted witnessing her weakness.

The man's concern was unmistakable. 'She's crying here because someone hurt her! Who dares?' Nathan's mind already conjured a hundred painful retributions.

Evelyn composed herself. Beside her, Isabella's sobs quieted.

Determined to prevent Nathan from noticing anything, Evelyn spoke his name softly. "Nathan—"

He leaned closer, his body radiating cold intensity, his breathing heavy.

Evelyn clenched her teeth. "Could you—"

Nathan tensed at her hesitation. "Hmm?"

Exhaling sharply, Evelyn said, "Could you get lost?" Nathan froze. Evelyn stood, shaking out her numb legs. Her expression turned calm, edged with irritation.

"Why do I keep seeing you everywhere?"

Nathan's dark eyes darkened further. The coldness faded momentarily, revealing a flash of pain. "Fate keeps bringing us together—"

"Stop the nonsense," Evelyn cut him off. "I know the club owner. He told me everything."

Nathan admitted the truth - there was no point hiding it. Evelyn laughed bitterly. 'Typical Nathan.'

He repeated his question. "Who hurt you?"

Evelyn met his gaze squarely. "Stop imagining things. We crouched too long and got lightheaded from poor circulation. We're fine now."

Nathan frowned, clearly unfamiliar with this explanation.

Yet her reasoning sounded plausible, and lacking medical expertise, he couldn't argue.

Internally, Nathan marveled. 'Evelyn's incredible.' His relief showed as his expression softened.

Before he could respond, Evelyn touched Isabella's shoulder.

"We're leaving now. Do as you please, Mr. Blackwood!"

Nathan insisted, "I'll escort you home."

No gentleman would let two women return alone at night.