Chapter 464

Morning sunlight filtered through the gap in the curtains as I rubbed my tired eyes.

Staying up late talking with Edward last night left my head still foggy.

The living room was empty when I went downstairs, only a steaming breakfast and a note on the dining table.

"Evelyn, I'm off to work. Don't forget to eat. —Alex"

A smile tugged at my lips as I snapped a photo of the heartwarming scene.

The moment I sent the picture to Sebastian, a video call notification popped up.

"Where's Evelyn?" His voice came through the phone, eyes scanning the background.

"She's at work." I took a bite of the sandwich, savoring the melted cheese.

Sebastian's brow furrowed almost imperceptibly. "You're alone at her place?"

"I have my reasons." I teased, watching his jaw tighten instantly.

The call went silent as his gaze sharpened.

Finishing the last bite, I lowered my voice. "Sebastian... I think Evelyn might be seeing someone."

His pupils visibly constricted on screen.

Meanwhile, at the Valdemar estate...

Olivia set down her coffee cup, eyeing her brother sitting in the shadows.

"What's got you grinning like an idiot in the middle of the night?"

A faint smile lingered on Dominic's lips as his fingers traced the phone screen.

"Sis... I think I've found her."

The cup clattered against the table.

Olivia stared at her brother's unusually soft expression before realization dawned.

"That Roland girl?"

Dominic remained silent, but the faint blush creeping up his ears spoke volumes.

"Don't tell me..." Olivia inhaled sharply, "you went to see her last night?"

Outside, the morning sun continued its ascent.

Standing by my office window, I absentmindedly touched my burning earlobe.

My phone vibrated with a new message:

"Lunch today? —L"

My finger hovered over the screen as memories of last night's unexpected embrace resurfaced.

Just as I bit my lip to reply, the office door swung open.

"Director, we have an urgent project requiring your attention."

I didn't notice my own smile as I set the phone down.

Meanwhile, Alexander was practically bouncing during his video call with Sebastian:

"Her lips were unusually red when she came home! And I definitely smelled perfume!"

Sebastian's expression darkened before he abruptly stood up.

"I'm taking leave immediately."