Chapter 273

Cornelius nodded eagerly. "I came to discuss business with Mr. Sterling and thought I'd enjoy some horseback riding. Care to join me, Mr. Whitmore?"

Harrison declined without hesitation. "Not today."

Noticing Evelyn standing beside him, Cornelius smirked. "Ah, I understand. Another time then, Mr. Whitmore."

After exchanging pleasantries, Cornelius turned to leave. "Shall we continue our discussion, Mr. Sterling?"

Nathan's voice turned icy. "Our business is concluded, Mr. Blackwood."

Cornelius blinked in confusion. "But we were making progress just moments ago."

Nathan's gaze hardened. "That was then."

Though furious, Cornelius knew better than to challenge the Sterling heir. He stormed off without another word.

Nathan stood motionless, his burning stare fixed on Evelyn.

Feeling the intensity of his gaze, she looked up and met his eyes.

Memories flooded Nathan's mind - their first encounter at this very racetrack, competing for a project on horseback. Evelyn's confident posture, the wind in her hair as she rode...

"Evelyn," he said suddenly. "Join me for a ride."

Her refusal was immediate. "No thank you, Mr. Sterling."

Nathan's expression darkened.

Just then, Rosalind approached with false cheerfulness. "What a coincidence seeing you here, Evelyn!" Her sugary tone belied the malice in her eyes.

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Here to ride, Ms. Blackwell?"

Rosalind's smile widened. "It's dull alone. How about a friendly race?"

"Pass," Evelyn said flatly.

Rosalind's eyes gleamed with challenge. "Not interested? Or are you afraid? Still shaken from our last encounter?"

Evelyn remained unfazed. "Correct. I have no desire to ride with you. Problem?"

Rosalind's mask slipped momentarily before she turned to Nathan. "Nathan, perhaps you'll join me instead?"

"Not interested," he replied coldly.

Humiliation colored Rosalind's cheeks. As a Blackwell, she wasn't accustomed to public rejection.

Evelyn turned to Harrison. "Let's feed Snowy and go."

Harrison's eyes softened. "Of course."

They walked away, leaving Nathan and Rosalind fuming behind them.

Rosalind's nails dug into her palms. "Who does that commoner think she is? Such arrogance!"

Nathan's voice cut like ice. "Enough."