Chapter 291

Sebastian had never been this close to Evelyn before. Her sleeping face was mere inches away, making his breath hitch. Even the fine down on her cheeks was visible, glowing softly under the light.

His gaze lingered on her slightly parted lips, the rosy hue like a silent invitation. Before he realized it, he leaned in, his pulse pounding loud in his ears.

Just as their lips were about to meet, Evelyn's eyes fluttered open.

"You..." Her voice was drowsy, laced with sleep. "What are you doing?"

Sebastian froze, his Adam's apple bobbing. He straightened abruptly, the tips of his ears turning pink.

"Why is your face so red?" Evelyn's attention snapped to his flushed skin. She propped herself up, her warm breath brushing his neck.

He instinctively moved back, but she cupped his face with both hands.

"Don't move." She frowned, studying the rapid spread of crimson across his cheeks, down to his neck, as if flames were licking his skin.

Her expression turned serious. "This isn't normal."

She hurried to the medical cabinet, rummaging for supplies. Sebastian watched her bustling figure, his gaze darkening.

"Lie down." She returned with a stethoscope, gesturing to the couch.

Sebastian arched a brow. "Here?"

"Don't overthink it." Evelyn remained stern. "I need to check your vitals. It might be a toxin reaction."

The cold metal of the stethoscope pressed against his chest as she listened intently. Her fingers accidentally grazed his skin, sending a shiver through him.

"Does this hurt?" She pressed lightly on his abdomen.

Sebastian's throat tightened. "No."

As the examination continued, his flush only deepened. Evelyn bit her lower lip, baffled.

"Ms. Roland." Sebastian finally spoke, his voice rough.

She looked up, questioning.

"I'm just..." He cleared his throat. "Not used to being this close to someone."

Evelyn blinked, then burst into laughter, her eyes crinkling. The sight made Sebastian's heart skip another beat.

"So the mighty Sebastian Valdemar is easily flustered?" She deliberately leaned closer, amused by the way his jaw tensed.

Who would have thought the formidable business tycoon had such an adorable side? The discovery inexplicably lifted her mood.