Chapter 880

Asher—no, Julian Whitmore—saw the icy demeanor in Evelyn Sinclair's eyes and knew he needed to change tactics.

Emotional appeals had failed. Now, it was time to dangle the bait.

After all, countless companies in Montecito would kill for a partnership with Pacific Crest International.

Evelyn’s lips curled into a cold smile.

"Sorry, but I don’t see us working together."

Beside her, Preston Sinclair immediately understood—this wasn’t a friendly reunion.

Noticing Evelyn’s frosty expression, Preston stepped forward, his hand resting lightly on her shoulder.

"You mentioned wanting to catch a movie earlier. We should head out."

Evelyn met his gaze and nodded. "Let’s go."

They walked away, leaving Julian standing there, stunned.

He cursed under his breath and downed his drink in one gulp.

Harrison, Nathan Blackwood’s right-hand man, had witnessed the entire exchange.

He approached Julian with a knowing look. "Mr. Whitmore, you know Ms. Sinclair?"

Julian scoffed. "Know her? We’re very familiar." His eyes narrowed. "But why is she here? Working for Blackwood Industries now?"

Harrison smirked. "She’s the CEO of Sterling Enterprises. And, well… she’s also President Blackwood’s ex-wife."

Julian’s glass nearly slipped from his fingers. "Holy shit."

He had known "Annie" for years—yet somehow, this bombshell had escaped him.

Without another word, Julian rushed off to find Nathan.

Outside, the biting wind clawed at Evelyn’s skin, seeping into her bones.

Then, warmth enveloped her as Preston draped his coat over her shoulders.

"Consider this my chance to impress you," he said smoothly. "No refusing."

Evelyn swallowed her thanks and smirked. "Smooth move."

Preston chuckled. "Goodbye, then."

She blinked. "Wait—weren’t we going to the movies?"

He froze, cheeks flushing. "I thought that was just an excuse to escape."

Evelyn laughed. "Come on. It’s early. My treat—for helping me out."

His eyes softened. "I’d be honored."

Inside the car, warmth finally returned to her limbs.

Preston hesitated before speaking again.

"There’s something I’ve been meaning to say."

Evelyn tilted her head. "Oh?"

"I owe you an apology."

"For what?"

"That day at the gym." His voice was low. "I never meant to make you uncomfortable. My feelings for you are real. This isn’t some game to get back at anyone."

Silence settled between them.

Evelyn hadn’t given the incident much thought—she hadn’t realized Preston had carried this guilt for so long.

Had she been too harsh?

She studied his profile, illuminated by passing streetlights. His expression was earnest, eyes filled with regret.

"Preston, using people as shields is just survival. I don’t hold it against you."

"But I’m not pursuing you as a shield." He turned to her, intensity burning in his gaze. "I’m doing it because I want you, Evelyn."

The raw sincerity in his voice sent a shiver down her spine.

She’d heard countless confessions before—empty words from men who saw her as a prize.

But this?

This felt different.

Like the faintest brush of fingers against her pulse, setting her skin alight.