Chapter 107

Sebastian Cortez had refined features like polished jade, his gentle demeanor radiating warmth. Every movement carried effortless grace, his presence as soothing as a spring breeze that could calm any restlessness.

"Brother..."

Evelyn Roland lifted her dress slightly as she hurried toward him, her eyes crinkling with joy.

Sebastian steadied her with a light touch. "Slow down. I'm not going anywhere."

She looped her arm through his and looked up. "Did you bring me anything good?"

"Braised chicken legs and grilled squid. Saved them for your late-night snack." His voice was indulgent, his eyes crinkling with amusement.

Evelyn pouted.

Why couldn't she have them now?

"The smell is too strong. Wait until we get back." Sebastian saw right through her, his smile deepening.

She relented. Gabrielle Flores had a sharp nose—if she caught a whiff, there'd be an endless lecture.

Nathan Aldridge stood waiting by the car and opened the door as they approached.

The vehicle glided toward the Imperial Palace Hotel.

Though Evelyn had kept a low profile for the past year, she remained acutely aware of every development outside her walls.

"Boss, when is Sophia coming back?" Nathan asked, hands on the wheel.

"Next month," Evelyn replied evenly.

She had sent Sophia Blanchet to investigate the Langley and Evans matters. Results were due soon.

"Perfect!" Nathan's eyes brightened. "Things just don't feel complete without her around."

Sebastian glanced at him through the rearview mirror. "You've matured quite a bit in a year."

Nathan suppressed a grimace. After being drilled daily by Evelyn, how could he not improve?

But in her eyes, he still had miles to go.

"Brother, Nathan still has a long way ahead," Evelyn said, gazing out the window.

Nathan straightened. "Don't worry, Boss. I can handle it."

Sebastian gently ruffled Evelyn's hair. "Don't push yourself too hard. Grandfather only wants you safe and happy. Once Ethan grows up, things will get easier."

Evelyn nodded with a faint smile.

The Imperial Palace Hotel blazed with light.

As the trio entered the banquet hall, crystal chandeliers scattered dazzling reflections across the room.

Sebastian instantly became the center of attention.

"Mr. Cortez!" Theodore Lowell strode forward, then froze at the sight of Evelyn. "Miss Roland? You're back?"

He would never forget the medicine she had sent six months ago—the cure that saved his daughter's asthma.