Ryan Roland stared at his phone screen.

The restored photo from New York had initially made him think his father was overreacting.

But when the image appeared in its entirety, he was completely stunned.

The woman in the photo was absolutely related to Evelyn Ross by blood!

There were many beautiful women, but few in the world could combine ordinary features into such a dazzlingly radiant appearance.

Evelyn followed Alexander Vance back, moving closer to see the photo.

Ryan suddenly put away his phone. "It's possible, but my father wants to speak with Miss Ross in person. Mr. Vance, are you unwilling to let her go?"

Evelyn pressed her lips together.

Chloe Roland was innocent and kind-hearted. Evelyn cherished this friend deeply.

They had been spending a lot of time together recently. But Alexander's clear aversion to the Roland family made her hesitate...

Should she abandon friendship for love?

...She couldn't do it.

Evelyn was never the type to prioritize romance above all else. She wanted both her friends and her lover!

As she was thinking, Alexander frowned and looked at her. "Whether you go or not is your decision. I won't interfere."

Only then did Evelyn smile.

Alexander then turned to Ryan. "There's no need to try driving a wedge between us, Mr. Roland."

Ryan: !

That wasn't his intention at all! He simply felt Evelyn shouldn't be constrained. She deserved a wider world.

He wanted to explain, but Alexander had already taken Evelyn's hand and left, leaving Ryan alone and frustrated.

Alexander's final comment was definitely deliberate!

...

Evelyn didn't dwell on it, following Alexander to the equestrian club.

She stole glances at the man beside her.

A fitted black top accentuated his lean waist. Matching riding pants were tucked into leather boots, highlighting his long legs. His usual composed demeanor was replaced by a dashing, heroic aura, as if he were about to spur a horse into a gallop and conquer the world.

...So handsome.

Evelyn hurriedly looked away.

The club wasn't crowded. Most guests were chatting in the lounge area.

Staff brought over a majestic Akhal-Teke horse. Its pale golden coat shimmered under the sun, its eyes rebellious and untamed.

Alexander introduced it. "This is my horse, Zephyr."

Evelyn was slightly taken aback.

She knew this horse...

Years ago, an unruly Akhal-Teke had arrived in San Francisco. She had personally tamed it before selling it on.

Could Alexander be the buyer?

As they approached, the proud horse suddenly lowered its head. Its eyes clearly showed panic upon seeing Evelyn.

Alexander gently stroked its head, looking at Evelyn. "Zephyr has a temper. Dare to ride him?"

Zephyr snorted, his body trembling slightly, as if saying: The big boss is here! Who dares to cause trouble?!

Evelyn shot Zephyr a look, making him shudder again.

She smiled slyly. "With you here, I dare anything."

This pleased Alexander, dispelling his earlier displeasure about the Rolands.

Evelyn walked towards Zephyr, preparing to mount.

A large hand suddenly supported her waist. Alexander lifted her effortlessly. She smoothly parted her legs and swung onto the saddle.

The man's warm palm held her ankle through the fabric, guiding her foot into the stirrup.

The tips of her ears grew warm.

Alexander's voice was deep. "I'll lead him. Don't be afraid."

"..."

Evelyn curved her lips. "Okay."

Zephyr's eyes widened.

The big boss was afraid of him?

He recalled the fear of being dominated by the big boss...

The stern man remained oblivious, turning his head gently. "He's very docile today. I'll walk a bit faster. Don't be scared."

Evelyn played along. "Not too fast. I'm afraid I might fall."

"Don't worry. I'll catch you."

"Okay."

Zephyr: !

The big boss, who could sit steady even without a saddle back then, was afraid of falling now?

Ridiculous!

...

While they were engrossed in each other, a group of rich heirs approached, escorting some young masters from New York.

The most conspicuous among them was a man in white.

A flashy white riding outfit, a black cap, a handsome face carrying an air of unrestrained arrogance.

This was the guest of honor at today's banquet—Marcus Valentine.

Isabella Ashcroft and Julian Evans walked on the periphery of the group, speaking quietly.

Isabella whispered, "My mother said the Valentines are one of the five major elite families in New York. Vast business empire, deep connections... Julian, we must ensure he enjoys himself today."

Julian nodded. "I didn't expect your mother to actually get him to come. I heard Marcus loves horse racing and admires those with excellent equestrian skills."

Isabella frowned. "It's a pity I can't ride while pregnant."

Julian sighed. "This child really came at an inconvenient time."

They had finally managed to invite this important guest through Mrs. Ashcroft, but Isabella couldn't showcase her riding skills.

Julian frowned. "If I perform too well, it might annoy him. I was counting on you to impress him..."

Isabella bit her lip, her gaze sweeping over the club. Suddenly, she smiled. "Julian, even if I can't shine, someone can still make a complete fool of themselves."

Julian followed her gaze and saw Evelyn.

They had just returned from their ride. Alexander was reaching up to help Evelyn dismount.

Sunlight bathed the embracing couple, stinging Julian's eyes.

He clenched his fists, hearing Marcus ask, "Is that Alexander Vance? The one he's helping down is his wife? Needs help dismounting? Can't ride?"

Isabella immediately stepped forward with a smile. "That's my sister, Evelyn Ross. She truly never learned to ride."

Marcus scoffed disdainfully. "Why come to an equestrian club if you can't ride? This is a place for horsemanship, not for romantic dalliances!"

Evelyn and Alexander walked hand-in-hand towards them.

As the distance closed, Marcus got a clear view of Evelyn's face.

He suddenly froze.