Chapter 139

"Oh, is that so?" Victoria arched a brow, her tone dripping with skepticism. Evelyn's explanation hadn't swayed her in the slightest.

"Yep, that's the truth." Evelyn exhaled sharply and playfully nudged Victoria. "Honestly, I miss the old you—cold, aloof, and sparing with words. Who knew you'd turn into such a chatterbox? Go shower already. I'm next!"

"Typical deflection when someone's caught in a lie. But fine, I won't argue with a child." Victoria waved her off dismissively and headed toward the bathroom.

Evelyn rolled her eyes but secretly sighed in relief. She was grateful Victoria had let it slide—this time. Still, she knew she'd have to tread carefully the next time she saw Alexander.

Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her thoughts. A single message lit up the screen: 1808. Alexander's room number. A small smile tugged at her lips as she sent back a playful emoji before clearing the remnants of their late-night snack from the table.

As she unpacked her clothes, Victoria emerged from the bathroom, her damp hair clinging to her shoulders. "All yours," she announced, toweling off.

"Got it." Evelyn grabbed her toiletries but paused. "It's been a long day. Don't wait up for me if you're tired."

Victoria smirked. "Wait for you? Please. It's not like I need you to warm my bed."

Evelyn chuckled and disappeared into the steamy bathroom.

Meanwhile, Vanessa lay wide awake, the weight of Lucien's words pressing on her like a lead blanket. Tonight... After tonight... The clock ticked agonizingly slow. She wished morning would come faster, sparing her this torturous indecision.

But time dragged on. If she let this chance slip away, she might never get another shot at the fame she craved.

Restless, she fished her phone from under her pillow. No messages from Lucien. Of course—he didn’t need to push her. He knew her too well, knew exactly what she wanted. Like a spider waiting for its prey, he let her stew in her own temptation.

She bit her lip, then dialed Dominic. He answered instantly. "Vanessa? What's wrong?"

"I... can't sleep," she whispered, her voice barely audible.