Chapter 435

Scarlett's fingernails dug deep into her palms, leaving crescent-shaped marks. Her cheeks burned crimson, the tips of her ears flushed scarlet.

Once again, Evelyn had outmaneuvered her.

This seemingly gentle woman was far more formidable than she'd anticipated.

"Miss Roland's technique was flawless!"

"Beautiful and brilliant—she's the perfect goddess!"

"I'm officially her fan from today!"

In the corner of the lab, researchers exchanged knowing glances. They understood better than anyone that Evelyn had only revealed the tip of the iceberg.

Why else would top-tier talents like them willingly serve her?

"Back to work, everyone!"

"Daniel, David—let me see your notes!"

A bespectacled researcher eagerly dragged the twin brothers away. The team dispersed, leaving Scarlett standing alone, her chest heaving.

——

In the CEO's office.

Sebastian's slender fingers curled around a glass as he placed warm water before Evelyn. "You shouldn't have had to endure that."

Evelyn took a sip, lashes lowering. "It was nothing."

The man studied her expression, confirming her indifference before pouring himself water and sitting.

"By the way," he began casually, "the talents you recommended are impressive. Though..."

"Though?" She lifted her gaze.

"They're from Aether Research Lab, aren't they?"

Sebastian's piercing stare held undisguised probing.

Evelyn traced the rim of her glass, lips curving. "And?"

"Why would they involve themselves in such a minor project?"

Aether's researchers were notoriously selective, never working for outsiders. Yet Evelyn had produced three effortlessly.

"Perhaps..." Her eyes glinted with amusement, "they were charmed by my charisma?"

"Plausible." His low chuckle vibrated through the room. "But I suspect another truth—they obey you because you're Aether's shadow mastermind."

After meticulous deduction, this was the only logical conclusion.

Evelyn set down her glass, obsidian eyes flickering. "Sharp as ever, Sebastian."

"Evelyn," he leaned forward, "how many more secrets are you hiding?"

She was an enigma, endlessly surprising him.

Her crimson lips tilted. "Why not... discover them yourself?"

Sebastian's throat moved with a silent laugh.

Of course.

This answer was quintessentially Evelyn.

He tactfully changed the subject.