Chapter 165

"Rage won't alter facts." Sebastian Valdemar's lips curved slightly, amusement flickering in his eyes.

Evelyn Roland's knuckles turned white, nails digging into her palms. She glared at the infuriating man before her, her gaze sharp enough to flay him alive.

"You—"

She itched to claw that handsome face to shreds.

Sebastian sensed her boiling fury. In a swift motion, he closed the distance between them, gripping her slender wrist. His breath brushed her ear as he murmured, "I can keep your secret. But..."

Evelyn's pupils constricted.

What was wrong with this man? Rumors claimed he despised physical contact.

A cold laugh escaped her as she jerked her knee up.

Sebastian anticipated the move, stepping back just in time. His eyes darkened, the air around him turning glacial.

"I warned you to stay away," Evelyn bit out, each word deliberate. "Seems Mr. Valdemar has hearing and memory problems."

Tension thickened the air.

Fiona Valentine arrived just in time to witness their standoff. Her heart leaped with excitement as she crept closer.

So it was all an act!

Smoothing her dress, she approached with a bright smile. "Mr. Valdemar, what a coincidence!"

Sebastian's eyes flashed with irritation, though his polite smile remained intact. "Miss Valentine."

That single glance sent Fiona's pulse racing. Gathering courage, she continued, "Are you alone? Would you like to—"

"Excuse me." Sebastian checked his watch, cutting her off with cool detachment. "The gala is about to begin."

Evelyn had already turned away, her retreating figure resolute.

Fiona watched Sebastian's tall silhouette disappear into the crowd, her grip tightening around the champagne flute.