Chapter 4Two Heirs, One Bride

We arranged to meet at an upscale French restaurant. At this hour, it wasn't crowded. When I arrived precisely on time and walked to the floor-to-ceiling window, my date was already seated there, gazing out, lost in thought.

"Hello, Mr. Patton?"

He turned. His deep-set eyes held a serene, distant quality, and his amber pupils reflected my somewhat hesitant smile. In the past two years, I had heard rumors about this true heir. They said Evan Patton was exceptionally intelligent, possessing unique insights into emerging trends, and had quickly taken over most of the Patton family's businesses. However, he was also described as eccentric and aloof, perhaps scarred by his childhood experiences.

It was strange, but he did bear a slight resemblance to Steve, though Steve's refinement was born of lavish indulgence, while Evan's was an almost ethereal elegance.

"Yes. Miss Thorne, please have a seat."

His voice was both magnetic and clear, much like the overall impression he gave me – contradictory yet mysterious.

We chatted for a long time, from adolescent anecdotes to travel experiences. It was then I learned that Evan hadn't lived a difficult life before being recognized by the Patton family. He had always been raised in an intellectual household, with both parents as university professors at renowned institutions.

At this point in the conversation, I didn't inquire why he chose to return to the Patton family. Yet, sensing my hesitation, he abruptly changed the subject.

"Miss Thorne, both our parents have agreed to this alliance, but you understand that, in essence…"

"It’s an exchange and merger of interests. We probably don't have the power to refuse."

I sat there, stunned. A sliver of sunset from the window fell near my eyes, but I didn't look at it. I calmly replied, "And then what?"

"So, my lawyer will contact yours to discuss the prenuptial agreement. And the division of assets under various circumstances after marriage, especially…"

"What?"

His amber eyes held a searching quality, a look I had seen many times at negotiation tables. It no longer surprised me. Sure enough, in the next second, he laid out his terms.

"Miss Thorne, since we’re speaking frankly, I won’t hide it. I already know about your previous relationship with Steve."

I raised an eyebrow. If he had bothered to investigate Steve’s whereabouts over the past two years, he would have easily found out. So, I wasn't surprised.

"But that was your personal life before marriage, no right or wrong there. However, I need to secure my marriage. If either of us commits infidelity after marriage, they automatically forfeit all marital assets."

At his words, I smoothed my curled hair beside my ear, my expression now completely devoid of warmth.

The day I was born into the Thorne family, I severed ties with any notion of innocence. I knew my marriage would inevitably be a tool, but I hadn't expected everything to be laid bare. After all, leaving some room for pretense, my so-called husband and I could occasionally enjoy the illusion of intimacy. But clearly, the man before me didn't think that way. His words even carried a hint of judgment about my private life.

"Before we're even married, you’re telling me you have no trust in me, Mr. Patton?"

"Trust is too ephemeral a word. I prefer it in black and white."

My last hint of a smile vanished.

"Fine. I agree."

With that, I picked up my bag, ready to leave the restaurant. There seemed no point in further small talk. But at that moment, the man spoke.

"On the day of the engagement, I plan to invite my… formerly wayward brother. You don't mind, do you, Eleanor Thorne?"

He was, of course, referring to Steve. I figured the man was probably busy buttering up the Vance family at that moment.

"As you wish."

My gaze returned, my voice cold.