Chapter 872

"Go now, before it's too late," Tristan urged impatiently. "Be her escort inside!"

Dozens of male guests were already eyeing Evelyn Sinclair hungrily, yet Nathan Blackwood remained seated like a statue.

Nathan's expression darkened as his fingers hovered over the door handle.

Tristan suddenly grabbed his arm with an odd chuckle.

"Actually, I'll join you. Consider me your wingman tonight."

Nathan shook him off with visible disgust. His gaze sharpened when he spotted the couple outside.

Preston Sinclair stood beside Evelyn, their radiant smiles creating a picture-perfect moment. The striking pair looked like they'd stepped out of a high-fashion magazine spread.

The temperature in the luxury car plummeted instantly.

Nathan's jaw clenched, his obsidian eyes burning with barely contained fury.

So Reginald Blackwood had invited Preston too? The old man really wanted to twist the knife deeper.

Nathan had anticipated his grandfather summoning Evelyn.

The patriarch clearly wanted Nathan's former wife to witness his humiliation - to crush his masculine pride completely.

But that wasn't enough.

By inviting Evelyn, Reginald aimed to mock Nathan. By including Preston, he ensured someone would kick Nathan while he was down. The old fox knew exactly how to pour salt in his grandson's wounds.

Nathan's fists trembled violently, veins bulging at his temples. Tristan had no idea about the Ferguson family's arrangements. Was this entire spectacle designed to provoke Nathan to madness?

He wanted to curse them all, but any insult would inevitably include Nathan. Better to stay silent.

After what felt like an eternity, they watched Evelyn and Preston enter the hotel arm-in-arm. Tristan forced a smile. "Showtime. We can't be late."

Something felt dangerously off about this gathering.

But as Nathan's closest friend, Tristan would stand by him no matter what.

Harrison appeared suddenly, rapping on Nathan's window.

Nathan emerged, composing himself with visible effort. Tristan scrambled after him.

At the hotel entrance, the Blackwood family butler greeted guests. He stiffened upon seeing Nathan, bowing deeply. "Mr. Blackwood..."

Nathan strode past him without acknowledgment.

Dozens of guests approached with polite greetings, which Nathan acknowledged with curt nods. The ballroom glittered under crystal chandeliers.

This wasn't the Blackwoods' usual standard - likely because Reginald wanted maximum exposure for his grandson's downfall.

Evelyn and Preston's entrance caused an immediate stir.

Though Preston had only recently arrived in Montecito, his investments spanned multiple industries, making him a sought-after connection.

Many guests recognized him instantly.

Their speculative whispers about Evelyn and Preston's relationship filled the air.

Evelyn charmed a group discussing the latest Broadway hits - social grace came naturally to her.

Preston conversed with businessmen nearby, though his gaze kept drifting toward Evelyn. His eyes held a warmth reserved only for her.

An older executive noticed Preston's distraction and chuckled knowingly.

"Rare gems like Ms. Sinclair don't stay single long, Mr. Sinclair. If you're interested, you'd better act fast - the competition's fierce."

Preston's lips curved into a confident smile, his voice carrying just enough to reach approaching ears.

"They can stand down. That ship has already sailed."

The words made Tristan and Nathan freeze mid-step.