Chapter 922

Preston Sinclair closed his eyes and exhaled slowly.

Though he'd saved Evelyn twice and the Sterling family owed him gratitude, this arrangement felt excessive.

They admired Preston's character, but his status as a single father remained an uncomfortable truth.

Alexander Sterling studied William's expression before speaking in measured tones. "It's just dating. No guarantees where it leads."

"As long as Evelyn's happy, who cares about his background?" Alexander's words made William reconsider.

This wasn't marriage. What harm could dating do?

William's features relaxed visibly. "Fine, we won't interfere. Just know what you're doing."

Evelyn nodded with a small smile.

William stood, but couldn't resist adding, "Romance spices up life, but it's optional. Money comes first—understand?"

"Money first, love second," Evelyn agreed dutifully, earning William's satisfied nod.

The kitchen door swung open as Lucas and Preston entered simultaneously, arms laden with grocery bags enough for a week's worth of meals. Evelyn arched a brow—had Preston planned this?

Preston produced a chef's apron from his jacket pocket and tied it with practiced ease. "Mr. Sterling, dinner will be ready shortly."

William shot Lucas a pointed look. Grudgingly, Lucas rolled up his sleeves. "Let me help, Mr. Sinclair."

Lucas had long suspected Preston's gentlemanly facade hid vulpine cunning. His hospital remarks still kept Natalie Beaumont from speaking to him.

Now he had to assist the man who ruined his love life. 'Most miserable A-lister ever,' he thought bitterly.

Preston graciously made space at the counter. Lucas deliberately slowed his vegetable washing, dragging out the task.

Preston's lips curved. "Lucas, is Ms. Beaumont still upset?"

Lucas stiffened. Preston had aimed straight for his weak spot.

"You think your little performance didn't cause this?" Lucas snapped.

Preston's smile deepened. "Your ex called her that night. She left right after. My words had nothing to do with it."

"Which ex?" Lucas's hands stilled. "Jacqueline Moreau?"

Preston's silence confirmed it.

"I planned to explain to Ms. Beaumont personally," Preston continued, "but imagine my surprise seeing her with Jacqueline that evening. Such a talented actress—crying on command to a complete stranger. Quite the spectacle."

Lucas's grip turned the lettuce to pulp. That scheming Jacqueline!

Hollywood knew Lucas changed girlfriends like seasonal wardrobes, but Jacqueline had always been different.

They'd debuted together, starred in multiple films as lovers, even won Best Actor and Actress simultaneously.

The industry dubbed them the Golden Couple.

At their peak popularity years ago, rumors swirled about their off-screen relationship.

For publicity—and Jacqueline's career—their agency neither confirmed nor denied.