Chapter 463

A tall figure emerged from the corner of the parking lot.

Sunlight slanted across the man's sharp profile—Alexander Roland, Evelyn's third brother.

He had arrived ten minutes ago. His brow furrowed when his gaze landed on the familiar black Maybach.

Wasn't that Sebastian Valdemar's car?

Why was it parked outside his sister's company?

Just as he was about to step out to investigate, Sebastian drove off in haste.

"Strange..."

Alexander drummed his fingers absently against the steering wheel.

"Was he here to see Evelyn?"

From his angle, he'd completely missed the tense exchange at the entrance.

The car door slammed shut as Alexander adjusted his suit cuffs.

"Alex?" Evelyn nearly collided with him at the elevator. "What are you doing here?"

"Surprise inspection." His lips quirked as he studied her. "Making sure my little princess isn't getting into trouble behind my back."

She paused mid-step. "What trouble could I possibly be in?"

"I thought I saw Sebastian earlier."

"He just left." Her tone was casual.

Alexander's pupils constricted. "So he was here for you?"

"He gave me a ride back. That's all."

"What?!" His voice shot up like a startled cat. "Since when are you two so close?"

He gripped her shoulders. "Don't tell me you and that guy—"

"Alex!" Evelyn cut him off with an exasperated sigh. "It's strictly business."

"Really?" His gaze burned into her. "That man's cunning as a fox. Don't let him fool you."

"Cough—"

Evelyn choked on her water, the tips of her ears turning suspiciously pink.

"Easy there!" Alexander patted her back before realization struck. "Wait...that reaction..."

He leaned in abruptly. "Did you two already—"

"No!" Her denial came sharp and swift.

Yet unbidden memories surfaced—tangled limbs in a hotel room, scorching breaths, burning palms...

"Why are you blushing harder?" His eyes narrowed.

Evelyn ducked her head under the guise of coughing, avoiding his scrutiny.

"Just choked, that's all."

Only after triple-checking her expression did Alexander finally relax.

"Good." He ruffled her hair, then abruptly changed tack. "Not that I'm against you dating..."

Evelyn rolled her eyes discreetly.

"When you're older, you can date as many guys as you want..."

His lecturing voice faded into the background as Evelyn gazed at the darkening twilight outside, her thoughts drifting to that dangerously alluring man.