Chapter 272

Nathan's response was curt. "You can go ahead without me."

Rosalind's teeth sank into her plump lower lip.

Seeing his indifference, she remained stubbornly by his side. Moments later, their business associate Cornelius Blackwood finally made his appearance.

"My apologies for the delay, Mr. Sterling."

When it came to business matters, Nathan transformed into a different person entirely. He extended his hand cordially.

"Not at all, Mr. Blackwood. I heard about your passion for equestrian sports and specifically chose this venue. I was hoping to witness your renowned riding skills firsthand."

"You flatter me, Mr. Sterling. Rumor has it you're quite the accomplished rider yourself. Perhaps we could exchange pointers today."

As they conversed, the trio moved toward the racetrack.

Having no interest in horses, Rosalind lingered in the lounge area.

"Waiter, fetch me some orange juice," she commanded before settling onto an overstuffed couch.

Her gaze drifted toward the track, where a familiar silhouette suddenly caught her attention.

She nearly leapt from her seat.

Bitter recognition flooded her veins. "Evelyn? What's she doing here?"

Rosalind's eyes darted to Nathan's distant figure, relieved to see him facing the opposite direction. The tension in her shoulders eased slightly.

But her brow furrowed as she studied the man beside Evelyn. Who was he?

"Your juice, madam." The waiter placed the glass on the side table.

Rosalind snapped back to reality. "Wait."

She produced several crisp bills and pointed discreetly at Harrison. "Who is that gentleman?"

Following her gesture, the waiter explained, "That would be Mr. Whitmore, the owner of our establishment."

"The owner?" Rosalind's eyebrows shot up.

Evelyn was consorting with the racetrack's proprietor?

This was explosive information.

"What's his full name?"

The waiter shook his head apologetically. "I'm afraid I can't disclose that, miss."

Frustrated, Rosalind dismissed him.

Yet her eyes remained locked on Evelyn like a predator tracking prey. The humiliation from their last encounter still burned fresh in her memory.

Her fingers unconsciously traced the faint scar on her cheek.

Evelyn had struck her once. Now, she would make sure Evelyn paid tenfold.

A venomous smile curled her lips as schemes began taking shape in her mind.

Meanwhile, Evelyn moved with effortless grace across the track, her confidence radiating with every stride.

"Ready for a break, Evie?" Harrison suggested after several laps.

"Absolutely." Evelyn handed the reins to a stable hand before joining Harrison in the lounge.

Neither noticed the shadow slipping into the stables as they departed.

They had just settled into plush chairs when Nathan and Cornelius approached.

Nathan had spotted Evelyn earlier but maintained his composure.

Cornelius, however, immediately recognized Harrison and approached with deference. "Mr. Whitmore! What an unexpected pleasure. Here for some riding as well?"

His tone carried unmistakable respect, bordering on reverence.

Harrison responded with a barely perceptible nod. "Mr. Blackwood. Here on business, I presume?"