Chapter 323

Evelyn didn't flinch, her gaze locked onto Nathaniel's with unwavering intensity.

His voice dropped to a low murmur. "If this competition is affecting your emotions, your thoughts, and us, then I don't see why you should continue."

"Is that a threat?" Evelyn's tone was ice.

"A warning," he corrected. "You're pregnant. Stress isn't good for you—or the baby. Take some time to reconsider."

"For the baby?" A bitter smile flickered across her lips. "Or for you?"

Nathaniel's jaw tightened. "You think this is about the baby?"

"Don't you?"

"Evelyn, even if you weren't pregnant, I wouldn't let you compete in this state."

Her laugh was sharp. "This competition is hosted by Martin Group, but every candidate earns their place. You're asking me to quit before I've even started. Is this really for my sake? Or are you just hiding behind some noble excuse because you're afraid of what my participation might do?"

The words cut deeper than she expected.

Despite Nathaniel's recent gentleness since learning of her pregnancy, the reminder of his control stung. A suffocating ache settled in her chest.

The argument escalated, tension thickening the air. Nathaniel was relentless; Evelyn refused to yield. His demands were clear. So was her defiance.

Then, his phone rang.

He strode to the window, answering with a clipped tone. Evelyn didn't bother listening. He'd come to her office under the pretense of picking her up, but this was just another ambush.

She shut down her computer, organizing files with deliberate calm.

When he returned, his expression was steel. "Evelyn, I’ve told you before—stay away from Gregory. He’s not who you think he is."

Her brows furrowed. "Did you come here to monitor my friendships? If so, you’ve said your piece. You can leave."

His eyes darkened. "What do you want from me, Evelyn? Do you expect me to stand by while you—"

"While I what? Make my own choices?" She met his glare. "I won’t be controlled, Nathaniel. Not by you. Not by anyone."

Silence.

They left the office without another word, the drive home just as tense.

Rosalind had dinner ready, but the heavy atmosphere didn’t escape her. Later, she quietly reported it to Victoria.

By midnight, Victoria was on her way to the apartment.