Chapter 137

The moment was about to spiral into something far more intense when Evelyn's phone buzzed. She scrambled to grab it, her fingers fumbling as she answered.

"Hello?"

"Evelyn, I'm almost back. I'm grabbing some food. Want anything?" Victoria's voice chirped through the line.

In an instant, Evelyn snapped back to reality. She shoved against Alexander's chest, bolting upright. "N-No, thanks. I'm not hungry."

"Okay, were you already asleep? I'll be back soon," Victoria promised.

"Right, yeah!" Evelyn hung up and yanked Alexander's arm. "Hurry, Victoria's about to walk in! You have to leave—now. And don't let her see you!"

She frantically smoothed her clothes and thrust his coat at him. That was when she noticed him still lounging on the sofa, his expression stormy.

"Okay, I know this is my fault, and I'm sorry, but we can't risk exposure yet. Victoria knows who you are!" She softened her tone, trying to coax him into compliance.

Alexander exhaled sharply, irritation flashing in his eyes. "You make it sound like I'm some dirty secret."

He was pouting now, like a petulant child.

"Yes, everyone knows you—the illustrious Mr. Kensington. But could you please leave before she gets here?"

She wanted to shove him out the door, but she couldn’t risk him sulking over this. Victoria was probably in the lobby already. Why had Evelyn said she wasn’t hungry? If she’d asked for food, she could’ve bought more time.

Evelyn bit her lip, torn between urgency and not angering him further.

Alexander finally stood, draping his coat over his arm, his gaze lingering on her. She couldn’t wait any longer.

She pushed him toward the door. "Avoid her, and I’ll call you later. Wait—you’re staying in this hotel, right? Give me your room number. I’ll come to you."

Knowing Alexander, he wouldn’t have booked anywhere else. This was the safest way to meet.

His expression lightened slightly. "You better come."

"Yes, yes, I promise!"

"Don’t forget."

"I won’t!"

"You owe me for this," he murmured, tilting his head and tapping his cheek.

God, he could be such a spoiled brat.

Rolling her eyes, she stood on her toes and pressed a quick kiss to his cheek. But Alexander, ever the opportunist, turned his face at the last second.

His lips captured hers instead.

He pulled back with a smirk, ruffling her hair. "I'm leaving."

"Okay," she breathed, her fingers brushing her lips as her pulse fluttered.

She followed him to the elevator, waving as the doors slid shut.

Just as they closed, the elevator beside it dinged open.

Victoria stepped out, arms wide. "Hey, were you waiting for me?"