Chapter 474

Evelyn's breath hitched when Nathan's words pierced the air. Her pulse stuttered, but she quickly schooled her features into perfect composure.

Long lashes cast shadows over her stormy gaze as she deliberately avoided his piercing stare. "You lost all rights to dictate my life the moment those divorce papers were signed," she stated coolly, each word measured and precise.

Without hesitation, she pushed past him. The click of her heels against the marble floor echoed through the hallway as she walked away without a backward glance. Every step carried her further from the man who still had the power to unravel her.

Nathan watched her retreating figure, his jaw clenching as an unfamiliar ache spread through his chest.

Later that evening at the Caldwell estate, Evelyn recounted the night's disturbing events to Olivia.

"You're joking!" Olivia gasped, her teacup clattering against its saucer.

Marcus and Ethan's expressions darkened simultaneously. "That Donovan Sinclair has completely lost his mind!" Ethan exploded, slamming his fist on the armrest.

Marcus's knuckles turned white around his whiskey glass. "The bastard deserves to rot in hell for this."

Tears welled in Olivia's eyes as she reached for Evelyn's hand. "This is entirely my fault. I should have vetted him more thoroughly before introducing you. If anything had happened to you..." Her voice broke.

Evelyn squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Some people are masters of deception. Donovan clearly knew how to play the perfect gentleman around his elders."

Olivia's spine straightened with determination. "I'll make sure he faces consequences for this."

Nodding, Evelyn excused herself to seek solitude in her room. The evening's events swirled through her mind like a tempest.

Meanwhile, Nathan received a call from Walter upon returning to the Black residence.

"Mr. Black," Walter's cautious voice came through the line. "Donovan Sinclair was hospitalized under police custody. Despite emergency treatment, the drugs haven't metabolized. The doctors say... the only way to flush his system is through sexual intercourse."

Nathan's grip tightened around his phone, his expression turning glacial. Even through the phone, Walter could feel the dangerous energy radiating from his employer.

After a weighted pause, Nathan gave quiet, precise instructions that sent chills down Walter's spine.