Chapter 134

Evelyn questioned herself silently, but Victoria wasn’t looking at her—her full attention was on the call. Victoria nodded sharply. "Understood. Don’t worry, I’ll be there immediately!"

As she hung up, Evelyn frowned. "What’s wrong? Do you need to leave?"

"Yes. A new batch of ingredients just arrived, and I need to inspect them." Victoria offered an apologetic smile.

"Then I’ll come with you," Evelyn insisted.

Victoria shook her head. "The team specifically asked for me alone. It’s not about trust—probably just a client’s odd request. You know how some of them are with their protocols." She sighed. "I’ll just review the materials, sign a few documents, and be back before you know it. The driver’s waiting."

Evelyn hesitated. "It’s late. I don’t like you going alone."

Victoria laughed, ruffling Evelyn’s hair. "Oh, come on. I’ve handled worse on my own. This is the first time someone’s actually worried about me. It’s sweet, but unnecessary. I’ll be fine."

Evelyn exhaled. "Fine. But keep your phone charged. Call me if anything feels off. You never know who you might run into."

"Got it." Victoria handed her the room key. "Go rest. We’ve got a full day tomorrow."

Evelyn took the key and stepped out at the lobby, watching the car disappear into the night. Victoria was experienced—this was routine. Nothing would go wrong.

Or so she thought.

Back in the suite, Evelyn swiped her keycard and reached for the lights—when strong arms wrapped around her from behind.

"Who—?!" Instinct kicked in. She drove her heel down, aiming for a foot, and twisted to slam an elbow back. But the man dodged effortlessly.

"Evelyn."

Her breath caught. That voice—deep, familiar, achingly missed. She pulled the strike at the last second. "Alexander?!" She whirled, heart pounding. Was she imagining him?

He didn’t give her time to doubt. "I missed you," he said simply, pulling her flush against him. In one smooth motion, he guided her inside and flicked the lights on.

The second she saw his face—those sharp features, the warmth in his gaze—her chest tightened with joy. His lips curved, reading her expression perfectly.

Then she surprised him.

Evelyn grabbed his collar, yanked him down, and whispered against his mouth, "I missed you too."

Before he could react, she kissed him—hard.

Alexander stiffened in shock. This was new. His wife, usually so reserved, was claiming him with a fierceness that sent heat straight to his core.

When he recovered, he kissed her back like a man starved.