Chapter 311

Sebastian's slender fingers gracefully twirled the wine bottle. His black dress shirt accentuated his perfect waistline. Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a soft glow around him.

Bianca chewed on her straw, her eyes darting between her mentor and Sebastian. A knowing smile played on her lips, but she wisely kept silent.

"Bianca."

Evelyn's voice floated over, light as a feather, yet it made Bianca stiffen instantly.

"Sorry, Mentor!" She clasped her hands together, blinking her large eyes in feigned innocence. "I was just thinking—"

Before she could finish, a muffled cough interrupted her.

Evelyn shoved a water bottle into Bianca's hands and strode toward Sebastian. She unscrewed the cap and pressed it to his lips, her other hand already finding his pulse.

"Stop pushing yourself," she said coolly. "Let the waitstaff handle this."

A faint flush crept across Sebastian's pale face. He tried to speak, but another coughing fit seized him.

Evelyn's brow furrowed. Without hesitation, she reached out and undid the top button of his shirt. Sebastian's pupils contracted, his Adam's apple bobbing involuntarily.

"Don't overthink it." Her fingers pressed firmly against specific pressure points. "I'm teaching you how to stop coughing."

The light in Sebastian's eyes dimmed. How he longed to seize that hand and tell her she was welcome to overthink it.

"Got it?" Evelyn withdrew her hand.

"Could you... demonstrate again?" His voice was rough.

"Bianca, come here."

The girl, who had been watching with rapt attention, nearly choked on her juice. She scrambled to wipe her mouth. "M-Mentor?"

"Be my model."

Bianca rolled her eyes discreetly. Her mentor was truly oblivious—Sebastian might as well have "flirt with me" written across his forehead.

"Wipe that nosy look off your face," Evelyn said flatly.

Bianca hastily covered her mouth, but the mischievous glint in her eyes remained.