Chapter 78

Evelyn Roland was led into a quiet reception room. Sebastian Valdemar leaned against the window, an unlit cigarette between his fingers.

Silence stretched between them.

Three hours later, a lawyer entered and nodded at Sebastian. "Mr. Valdemar, all the paperwork is complete."

Evelyn tightened her grip on her bag strap. She hadn’t expected Sebastian to be the one to help her in the end.

"Thank you."

It was the second time today she’d thanked this man. The first was when he’d rushed into the burning building to save those priceless paintings.

Sebastian lifted his gaze, his voice low. "No need. Valdemar Group shares responsibility for this."

His eyes flickered over the scrapes on her arm. Suddenly, he suggested, "Get a medical checkup."

There was something probing in those deep eyes. He needed to confirm—confirm the hazy memories from that night at the hotel, confirm the faint crescent-shaped mark on her waist.

Last time, he hadn’t gotten a clear look. But this woman felt unnervingly familiar.

Evelyn tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear and declined politely. "It’s just a minor injury."

Sebastian arched a brow, his tone turning firm. "The Shattered Stars Collection enters its critical phase next week."

He deliberately slowed his words. "I can’t afford any delays caused by unforeseen circumstances."

The excuse was flawless, leaving no room for argument.

Under normal circumstances, Evelyn would have complied. But all she could think of now was Victoria Lowell’s pale face.

"Mr. Valdemar, my health—"

"KL and Valdemar Group have had a fruitful partnership," Sebastian interrupted, tapping the desk lightly. "To ensure everything goes smoothly, this checkup is necessary, don’t you think?"

His voice was calm, but the underlying authority was unmistakable.

Evelyn’s lashes fluttered. Finally, she forced a professional smile. "Fine. Let’s get it done."

A flicker of triumph crossed Sebastian’s eyes as he pulled out his car keys. "We’re going now."

The car was so quiet she could hear their breathing. Evelyn stared at the passing scenery, desperate for this absurd examination to end.

The moment the black sedan stopped, she pushed the door open. "Mr. Valdemar, I can handle this alone. You’ve already done enough today."

Sebastian stepped out leisurely. "It’s no trouble. Valdemar Group prioritizes the well-being of our partners."

The nurse at the station seemed prepared, greeting them warmly. "Mr. Valdemar, Miss Roland, please follow me."

For the next two hours, Evelyn was subjected to a full-body examination. Blood tests, CT scans, MRIs… She felt like a fish on a chopping block.