The air hung thick with unspoken tension as Chuck leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with newfound fervor. "I knew your father well, Evan. But I never imagined his ventures in Mound City would expand so rapidly in just a few years."
"Of course they have," Evan replied with a confident smile. Lowering his voice for effect, he added, "Do you know who truly owns the Drizzlewood Retreat?"
"I heard the owner goes by Ethan Reed..." Chuck ventured.
"Exactly. He is from the Reed family. Not long ago, when he returned to Mound City, my father even hosted a dinner in his honor," Evan said, savoring the moment.
Had Ethan been present, he would have been utterly baffled, likely wondering who Evan's father even was.
Chuck's excitement was palpable. "Evan, you must help Sara secure a collaboration with the Reed family. I'll make sure you're handsomely rewarded."
"Mr. Stewart, there's no need for such formality." Evan waved a dismissive hand, his tone dripping with false modesty. "Even without you asking, I'd step in. Sara's matters are mine as well—how could I stand aside? I'll speak to my father right away and have him reach out to the Reeds. We'll get Sara the support she needs."
As he spoke, he glanced toward Sara, hoping to catch a glimpse of gratitude or admiration on her face.
Instead, his expression froze.
There sat Stefan, engaged in lively conversation with Sara, their glasses clinking in a toast. He even shared a drink with Audrey, his words drawing soft, amused laughter from Sara.
A surge of irritation boiled within Evan.
Did they not hear a single word I just said?
Was all that posturing only for Chuck's benefit?
For a moment, Evan fought the urge to flip the table.
"Evan, I can't thank you enough," Chuck said, his voice thick with appreciation. He sighed softly, "With help like this... if only you were my son-in-law."
The words hung in the air, abruptly halting the conversation between Stefan, Audrey, and Sara.
All eyes turned toward Chuck, with Audrey shooting him a particularly icy glare.
Seizing the opportunity, Evan adopted a tone of wistful regret. "Mr. Stewart, it's all my fault... if I hadn't gone abroad for further studies... Ah, what a shame."
Letting the mood settle, he downed several glasses in quick succession, painting a picture of a man nursing his sorrows with drink.
"Now, Evan, don't lose heart. Sara's engagement isn't set in stone yet..." Chuck offered vaguely.
"Chuck, I think you've had too much to drink," Audrey interjected, her voice cold and sharp.
A mere clown daring to set his sights on Sara? She likely didn't even spare him a glance.


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