Chapter 212

Evelyn's unease lingered—what if someone had spiked the drink? She wasn't willing to take any risks.

Her tastes had shifted drastically since her pregnancy.

"You don't like coffee anymore? I remember you were obsessed with this brand in college," Jonathan remarked.

The colleagues around them perked up with interest. "Wow, Mr. Reeves remembers your old favorites, Evelyn!"

Another chimed in with a teasing grin. "Evelyn, isn't our boss just the perfect package? Young, handsome, and considerate?"

Evelyn felt her cheeks warm. With her coworkers playing matchmaker, she was at a loss for words.

Noticing her discomfort, Jonathan stepped in. He shot the group a sharp look. "That's enough. You're overstepping. I'm simply looking out for Evelyn as her superior. She's our lead designer."

Relief flooded through her at his words. She had no idea how to handle this kind of attention.

Once the crowd dispersed, Jonathan lowered his voice. "Evelyn, don’t stress. My feelings are my own to manage. Don’t overthink it."

After a brief hesitation, she met his gaze. "Jonathan, actually, I—"

"It's fine," he cut in smoothly. "Just focus on your work. Speaking of which, you’re taking charge of this new project. I trust no one else with it."

"Is it the villa interior design?"

"No. It’s an engagement ceremony. The client has high standards—not just for the venue, but every detail. They’ve requested an in-person consultation."

An engagement ceremony?

The mention of it made Evelyn think of Victoria and Nathaniel’s engagement, but she quickly shoved the memory aside.

"Jonathan, our studio doesn’t usually handle events. We specialize in interiors, not wedding planning," she pointed out.

"I know, but this is an exception. We have to take this job—it could elevate our reputation. Please, Evelyn," he urged.

With him framing it that way, refusal wasn’t an option. "Fine. But I expect more projects after this. My mortgage isn’t paying itself."

"Of course."

Jonathan turned and strode back to his office, immediately making a call.

His tone shifted into smooth flattery. "Ms. Sinclair, it’s all settled. My team is fully committed."

"Really? Perfect. I’ve heard Evelyn Carter is part of your studio. With her on board, I’m confident it’ll be flawless."

"Don’t worry, Ms. Sinclair. My entire team is skilled and eager for challenges. If you have any adjustments, just say the word. We’ll revise accordingly."

A smirk curled Victoria’s lips. "Thank you."

"The honor is ours. We’re grateful for this opportunity."

"How charming. But keep this engagement under wraps. I don’t want the couple’s identities revealed before the ceremony."

"Your secret is safe with me, Ms. Sinclair. I’m the only one who knows, and I won’t breathe a word."

Victoria’s smile widened. "I’ll share photos of the decorations afterward. Consider it free publicity for your studio."

Jonathan nearly beamed. "That’s incredible! Thank you, Ms. Sinclair."

The call ended, leaving Victoria in high spirits.

She couldn’t wait to see the look on Evelyn’s face when she realized whose engagement she was designing.