Chapter 50

"Gone?" Vincent Sullivan shot up from his chair, rattling the teacup on the table. "Who is this Miss Sinclair?"

His sharp gaze darted between Alexander Kingsley and Ethan Miller, fingers tightening around the armrest.

Ethan wiped his damp forehead. "She—she just stepped into the restroom. When I turned around, she vanished..."

"You lost track of a young woman?" Vincent roared. "Steward! Fetch the steward now!"

Alexander's brow furrowed slightly. "No need for alarm, Mr. Sullivan. She might be exploring the grounds."

Despite his calm tone, his eyes turned glacial. Ethan shivered under that piercing stare.

"This is my estate!" Vincent slammed the table. "Mr. Kingsley, stay seated!"

The steward arrived in haste. "Ah, the journalist?"

"Journalist?" Vincent's expression darkened.

The steward hurried to explain. "The reporter who's been requesting an interview. She showed up uninvited today. I meant to send her away, but Lord Alex..."

Vincent whirled toward Alexander, fury blazing in his eyes. "A clever diversion, Mr. Kingsley."

Alexander stiffened.

Evelyn Sinclair came here for an interview?

"I'll find her." He rose to leave.

"Halt!" Vincent commanded. "Escort our guest out!"

Alexander paused mid-step, then turned and settled back into the antique chair.

"I brought her here." His voice carried quiet intensity. "I'm not leaving without her."

The mansion plunged into eerie silence.

......

Half an hour later, Vincent returned grim-faced.

"Your friend has left."

Alexander narrowed his eyes. "Confirmed?"

"Young woman in red culottes, correct?" Vincent stated firmly. "The staff saw her depart."

"Security footage?"

"Malfunctioning." Vincent waved dismissively. "I detest surveillance gadgets."

Alexander's gaze flicked to the electrified perimeter fence before he stood to take his leave.

......

The Rolls-Royce idled by the tree-lined path.

"Keep watch," Alexander ordered, eyes closed.

Ethan blinked. "For what?"

"Until she emerges." Alexander's voice could freeze hell itself.

......

"He's gone."

Vincent sighed outside the courtyard gate.

The wooden door creaked open. Evelyn stepped out.

"My thanks, Mr. Sullivan."

"Enough pleasantries." He gestured wearily. "Ask your questions."

Evelyn hadn't expected such cooperation.

Their conversation flowed from tea ceremonies to rare artifacts, lasting until sunset painted the sky.

"Return another day." Vincent surprised her with an invitation. "I've more treasures to share."

......

When the side gate finally opened at dusk, Ethan nearly jumped.

"Miss Sinclair!"

The Rolls-Royce glided forward, blocking Evelyn's path.

The window lowered, revealing Alexander's elegant fingers tapping the doorframe.

His lazy drawl contrasted with the fire in his gaze.

"How will you thank me?"