Chapter 241

Nathan's response came without hesitation. "She's the only one I want."

Evelyn felt her chest tighten. "Mr. Sterling, this isn't appropriate," she declined firmly.

A storm cloud passed over Nathan's handsome features, displeasure evident in every line of his face. But with so many eyes watching, he couldn't force the issue. Rosalind eventually managed to steer him away.

The moment they left, Margaret rushed to Evelyn's side. "Are you alright, dear?"

Blinking, Evelyn shook her head. "I'm fine, Grandma. How are you feeling?"

"Just the usual aches—"

Their conversation was interrupted by Beatrice descending the stairs, dragging a paint-splattered boy by the ear. The child clutched two dripping brushes, his tear-streaked face a picture of misery as Beatrice berated him.

"You little fool! Look what you've done!"

The boy's wails echoed through the grand hall.

Margaret's expression darkened. "Enough," she snapped coldly. "You're making a spectacle."

Beatrice paled. She'd intended to humiliate Evelyn, not make Nathan the target. If he discovered her involvement...

She scrambled to apologize. "Mother, the child didn't know any better. We never expected Nathan would get paint on him. Please forgive—"

Margaret ignored her completely, taking Evelyn's arm. "Come, Evelyn."

A shadow crossed Evelyn's eyes as subtle unease prickled her skin.

Meanwhile, in the now-empty sitting room, only Rosalind remained with Nathan after the staff departed.

Unaware he wasn't alone, Nathan turned away and began unbuttoning his ruined coat. Suddenly, Rosalind rushed forward. "Nathan—"

Something dangerous flickered in her gaze.

"Rosalind, don't trouble yourself. Please leave."

Her hands froze mid-air. When she looked up, Nathan's dark eyes bored into hers. Years of suppressed emotions threatened to overflow.

"Nathan... imagine if—if we weren't cousins. Wouldn't that be perfect?"

Shock flashed across his face. Without hesitation, he shoved her away.

"You're not thinking clearly. This is nonsense."

Rosalind stepped closer, desperation coloring her voice. "I haven't touched a drop of alcohol. Just being near you intoxicates me."

"I don't know what game you're playing. If you insist on staying, I'll leave." Nathan turned on his heel and strode out without looking back.