Chapter 194

Evelyn Roland tightened her grip on the key and looked up at Sebastian Valdemar.

"We'll keep this key together," she said.

Sebastian slid his hands into his pockets, his expression indifferent.

"I have no interest in wine."

"Partnership requires sincerity," she insisted.

The corner of his lips curved slightly.

"My sincerity is trusting you."

Evelyn's fingers twitched before she tucked the key back into her bag.

As she stepped out of the winery, her phone buzzed. The screen displayed "Professor Jameson, Stanford University."

"Evelyn!" The voice on the other end was effervescent. "The International Piano Masters competition is about to begin—"

She halted mid-step.

"Not interested," she cut in bluntly.

Outside the office, Felix Valentine happened to pass by. The words "piano competition" made his ears perk up.

"Fiona Valentine..." he murmured, eyes glazing over with infatuation.

The moment the call ended, he eagerly knocked on the door.

"Professor Jameson, I recommend Fiona Valentine for the competition!"

The professor adjusted his glasses.

"Is she skilled enough?"

"Absolutely top-tier!" Felix thumped his chest. "Far better than Evelyn Roland!"

Professor Jameson pondered briefly. Remembering the sting of rejection, he slammed his desk.

"She's in!"

Felix beamed, already envisioning Fiona's grateful smile.

Meanwhile, Evelyn stood at a crosswalk.

The red light flashed. As cars streamed past, Sebastian's enigmatic gaze flickered through her mind.

There was something in those depths she couldn't decipher.