Chapter 346

Evelyn Roland had expected her brother Alexander to be too proud to apologize.

After all, he was someone accustomed to being the center of attention.

To her surprise, he openly admitted his mistake in front of everyone.

"I was at fault too. My apologies, Evelyn."

She cleared her throat lightly as they shook hands, putting the conflict behind them.

The tension finally dissipated.

"Master, I'd like to finish preparing those two dishes."

Bianca Savigny retied her apron, ready to resume the cooking Alexander had interrupted earlier.

"Go ahead. Alexander, let's step outside."

"Alright."

Before leaving, Alexander couldn't help glancing back.

The petite figure effortlessly lifted the heavy cast-iron pan, her movements fluid and practiced.

"Alexander?"

Evelyn noticed he hadn't followed.

"Coming."

Soon, the kitchen was filled with an enticing aroma.

"Done!"

Bianca plated the two dishes—a crystal-clear fish broth and spicy stir-fried beef glistening with a rich red hue.

Even professional chefs would have been impressed.

As the siblings reached the living room, they heard lively conversation.

"Do we have guests?" Alexander raised an eyebrow.

"Not sure."

They quickened their pace.

Aside from their parents and Oliver Valrose, a sharply dressed man stood in the living room.

"Mr. Valdemar?"

The siblings spoke in unison.

Sebastian Valdemar gave Evelyn a slight nod. "Pardon the intrusion."

"I invited Mr. Valdemar."

Sophia Roland guided her daughter to sit.

"We owe him our thanks for his help at the winery. Tonight's family dinner seemed like the perfect opportunity."

Alexander subtly positioned himself between them.

"An honor to finally meet you, Mr. Valdemar."

His chosen seat conveniently blocked their line of sight.

Sebastian's eyes darkened slightly, though his smile remained unshaken.

Their gazes locked in a silent battle of wills.

"Dinner is ready."

The scent of food wafted from the dining room.

Bianca brought out the two dishes she had prepared.

"Thank you, Bianca."

Sophia noticed the distinctiveness of the dishes.

The meal proceeded with warmth and laughter.

Then Sebastian pulled a hair tie from his pocket.

"Here."

Evelyn paused mid-bite. "Why do you have this?"

"Olivia suggested it."

At the mention of that name, understanding dawned, and she accepted it.

"Thanks."

She swiftly tied up her long hair.

To Alexander, the casual intimacy of the gesture set off alarm bells.

Though long single, his instincts as a man warned him—

This Mr. Valdemar was trouble.