Chapter 985

Preston Sinclair raised his eyebrows. A cold smirk played on his lips.

Yet, he felt relief. His objective had been achieved—it was time to leave.

Slowly, Preston stood, his tone deliberately grating.

"I should take my leave now, Mr. Blackwood. Evelyn will worry if I linger any longer."

He ignored Nathan’s murderous glare, rising smoothly. A faint, knowing smile curved his lips.

Nathan’s control snapped. His eyes darkened, crimson fury flashing like a blade unsheathed.

This damned Preston Sinclair—always pushing him to the edge.

A second later, restraint shattered. Blood roared in Nathan’s veins, his rage erupting.

In one violent motion, he vaulted over the desk, seized Preston’s collar, and yanked him forward. His fist swung.

"Mark my words, Preston. You won’t walk away unscathed."

Blood trickled from the corner of Preston’s mouth. A bruise bloomed across half his face, staining his usually composed features with vivid color.

He wiped the blood away, unfazed. No anger. No retaliation. As if this were expected.

"Goodbye, Mr. Blackwood."

With one last glance, he turned, stepping out of the office thick with icy tension. Behind him, something shattered—violently.

Preston spared a thought for the expensive ornament now in pieces. A shame.

Harrison watched Preston exit, bruised but oddly pleased. Confusion flickered. Why is he smiling after getting punched?

Then it clicked.

Was this a play for sympathy?

Sterling Manor

Evelyn Sinclair froze the moment she stepped inside. Amelia was here.

Lucas, usually elusive, trailed the butler like a dutiful shadow.

William Sterling greeted her with a warm chuckle. "What kept you so long?"

The room buzzed with laughter. Evelyn blinked, baffled, but quickly composed herself.

"You should’ve warned me Amelia was visiting," she said, flustered. "I came back empty-handed."

Amelia smiled gently. "No need for formalities. I didn’t come for gifts."

William patted her shoulder, amused. "Relax. Let Lucas handle the gifting on your behalf."

Lucas emerged from the kitchen, apron-clad. "Where are your manners?"

They really exploited him without mercy.

Evelyn grinned. Perfect. Third Brother can’t refuse.

Lucas rolled his eyes and retreated.

One against four? Not a fight worth picking.

Evelyn settled beside William, noting the softness in his gaze as he watched Amelia. A warmth she hadn’t seen before.

He played the patriarch, but his smile betrayed sheer approval.

Clearly, he adored this future daughter-in-law.

William turned to Evelyn, eyes bright.

"Your brother and Amelia have decided to get engaged. We called everyone back to hear your thoughts."

Evelyn’s breath caught. "Really?"

Alexander nodded.

Amelia mirrored the gesture, a shy smile blooming. Radiant. Flawless.

"Congratulations!" Evelyn beamed. "What’s there to debate? Just marry already!"

She shot Alexander a teasing look.

What wonderful news.