Chapter 290

Sebastian took the teacup, his fingertips brushing against hers in an accidental caress.

"An intriguing aroma."

He lowered his head, inhaling the delicate scent of tea laced with a faint, elusive sweetness.

Evelyn settled beside him on the sofa, the cushions dipping slightly under her weight.

They sat so close that the rhythm of each other's breaths became audible.

Sebastian's throat moved as he swallowed, his knuckles whitening around the cup.

The subtle fragrance of gardenias clinging to her skin was more intoxicating than the floral tea.

"This blend..."

"Take some home if you like." She turned her face toward him, the corners of her eyes curving into soft crescents. "It helps with insomnia."

Sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting dappled shadows on her lashes.

By the time their cups were empty, the conversation had meandered from tea leaves to the company's new project.

Sebastian caught himself discussing trivial matters—stranger still, he was enjoying this meaningless exchange.

"Actually, I—"

His words died as a weight settled against his shoulder.

Evelyn had fallen asleep against him, her breathing slow and even. Strands of her hair tickled his neck.

Sebastian froze, not daring to move.

Her peaceful face, lips slightly parted like ripe cherries begging to be plucked—

His hand lifted of its own volition, hovering just shy of touching her—

"Mr. Valdemar!"

Theodore barged in with an armful of files, his eyes wide behind his glasses.

Sebastian's gaze turned glacial.

"Get out."

The three syllables sent his assistant scrambling for the door.

As it clicked shut, Evelyn nuzzled unconsciously against his shoulder.

Sebastian looked down, his focus dropping to her parted lips.

His throat tightened.