Chapter 197

Nathaniel assumed Evelyn was still asleep. Disturbing her rest seemed unnecessary.

He rubbed his temples and retreated to the study with a dark expression.

Morning came too soon.

Evelyn woke early, washed up quickly, and dressed in a haze. She descended the stairs moments before Nathaniel, both stepping into the crisp morning air.

The car ride passed in silence. Evelyn leaned against the window, dozing off almost immediately. Conversation between them felt pointless anyway.

Two hours later, they arrived at Silver Peaks Ranch.

The car door barely opened before a whirlwind of energy came barreling toward her.

"Eve-lyn!"

Sophia Bennett's enthusiastic tackle shook off any remaining drowsiness. "I missed you so much! It's been forever!"

Evelyn chuckled at the dramatic greeting. "Not that long, but I missed you too."

Sophia clung to her like a koala until Nathaniel's sharp voice cut through. "Get off her. You're crushing her."

The girl immediately released her grip, pouting at her uncle's sternness.

Nathaniel ignored her sulking expression. "Why are you here? Who brought you?"

Sophia brightened instantly. "I saw Dominic's vacation posts! Remembering my pony lives here, I decided to crash your party!"

His brows furrowed. "Does your mother know you're here?"

Sophia suddenly found the ground fascinating. Changing tactics, she turned back to Evelyn. "You look exhausted! Didn't sleep well?"

Evelyn nodded. "Woke up too early."

Sophia shot Nathaniel an accusatory glare. "You should've let her sleep in if you knew we had plans today!"

Both adults froze. Had the teenager just imagined something scandalous?

"Come ride with me! It'll wake you up!" Sophia grabbed Evelyn's hand, dragging her toward the stables before either could respond.

Nathaniel sighed, following at a more dignified pace.

At the outdoor lounge area, Gabrielle Winslow sat with Dominic Prescott, Harrison Ford, Benjamin Rivers, and Jonathan Blake. Gabrielle wore impeccable riding attire, her wavy hair secured in a sleek ponytail.

Sophia's excited shouts announced their arrival. "They're here! Uncle Nathaniel and Evelyn!"

The group turned as one. Evelyn approached with Sophia while Nathaniel maintained his usual measured stride.

Jonathan smiled warmly at Evelyn.

Gabrielle's critical gaze swept over Evelyn's simple t-shirt and jeans. The contrast to her own designer equestrian wear made her lips curl slightly. Clearly Nathaniel didn't care enough to dress his companion properly.

Benjamin's eyes lit up at Evelyn's approach, though something troubled flickered across his expression.

Dominic stood with a grin. "You missed Benjamin's legendary BBQ last night."

Nathaniel positioned himself beside Evelyn naturally. "Not too late for a repeat performance today."