Chapter 399

Evelyn noticed Benjamin's relieved expression and mentally rolled her eyes. At least he wasn't making this more awkward than it needed to be.

She turned her attention back to the sizzling chicken wings, deliberately ignoring his nervous fidgeting.

Benjamin ran a hand through his hair, cheeks flushing. "Listen, Evelyn... I think I've started developing feelings for you."

The barbecue tongs froze mid-flip. Evelyn lifted an incredulous gaze, meeting his earnest expression with raised eyebrows. "That's... flattering, I suppose?"

His face fell. "That's all you have to say?"

"What exactly were you expecting?" She resumed fanning the coals, watching the flames lick at the marinated wings.

Benjamin's hands clenched at his sides. "I'm pouring my heart out here! This isn't some joke!"

Evelyn smirked without looking up. "Let me guess - this sudden confession has nothing to do with helping your sister eliminate competition for Nathaniel's attention?"

He crossed his arms defensively. "Okay, maybe that was part of it initially. But something's changed! When I see you now, I don't get that annoyed feeling anymore. It's... different."

A dry chuckle escaped Evelyn's lips.

'Teenagers and their dramatic proclamations,' she thought. 'Not hating someone suddenly equals romance? Please.'

"Benjamin," came Amelia's melodic voice from behind them.

He spun around, concern immediately replacing his frustration. "Amelia! You'll catch a chill dressed like that!"

Without hesitation, Benjamin shrugged off his jacket and draped it over his sister's shoulders despite her protests.

"Stop being stubborn," he insisted. "I won't have you getting sick."

Amelia surrendered with an affectionate sigh before turning her attention to Evelyn. "Why didn't you join Nathaniel inside after arriving?"

Evelyn kept her eyes on the grill. "Crowded places aren't really my thing."

Noticing Evelyn's focus on the food, Amelia nudged her brother. "Aren't you going to help? Gentlemen don't let ladies handle all the grilling work alone."

Benjamin obediently rolled up his sleeves. "Step aside, Evelyn. I'll take over from here."

She hesitated, protective of her culinary efforts. "Do you even know what you're doing?"

"Hey, I'm practically a grill master!" he boasted. "My friends always request my barbecue at gatherings."

Evelyn finally relinquished the tongs. "Fine. Let's see if you live up to the hype."

Just as Benjamin prepared to impress her, Amelia looped her arm through Evelyn's. "Leave him to it. Come, let's chat in the gazebo. You deserve a break."