Chapter 355

Evelyn Carter had lived long enough to witness many things, but never had she encountered such breathtaking narcissism!

She drew a sharp breath, leveling Jonathan Reeves with her most serious gaze. "My divorce status doesn't define me. You're projecting your own insecurities, Jonathan."

Who would have guessed this man was so deeply in love with himself?

"Excellent! I'm glad we're on the same page." He thrust the bouquet forward with unshakable confidence. "These are for you."

The roses in her hands felt like burning coals. Evelyn debated whether to unleash her full vocabulary on him.

Around them, coworkers erupted in cheers. "Say yes! Say yes!"

Her patience snapped like a frayed thread. Offending him be damned - clarity was overdue.

When Evelyn accepted the flowers, the office erupted while Jonathan's smirk widened.

Of course she'd yield. A divorced woman should be grateful for his attention.

Then came the decisive thud of roses hitting marble floors. The room plunged into silence.

Jonathan's face froze. "Explain yourself, Evelyn." This wasn't part of his script.

"Actions convey what words cannot." Her voice remained ice-calm. "Jonathan, incompatibility has nothing to do with my past. I simply don't like you - not now, not ever."

The studio head's ego visibly crumbled before his staff.

A nervous colleague broke the silence. "Evelyn, you turned down major firms after winning first prize. Wasn't this studio choice about him?"

"Absolutely," another chimed in. "We've seen your chemistry. There's no shame in admitting feelings."

Evelyn's response cut through the murmurs. "I chose flexible hours - weekends only so I could attend classes. That's all."

Jonathan's jaw tightened. "My office. Now."

She followed, relieved to escape the spectacle. His wounded pride needed privacy.

The moment the door closed, she spoke first. "I apologize for the scene."

"Save it." His laugh held no humor. "What exactly disqualifies me? I've been campus royalty since freshman year."

His resume of admirers was indeed impressive. Jonathan Reeves only pursued women who could elevate his status.

His sole college relationship ended when his heiress girlfriend's family shipped her abroad.