Chapter 176

Evelyn was taken aback by how composed Vanessa appeared as she observed her retreating figure. Vanessa didn’t linger on her failed past relationship. Instead, she handled it with effortless grace and moved forward without a backward glance. Now, Vanessa was thriving in a new romance, living her best life with unapologetic confidence.

Evelyn never expected to be staying at the same luxury hotel as Vanessa and Dominic—not until their unexpected encounter at The Canopy. Then again, The Chateau Royale was the finest establishment in the city, so it made sense that most attendees of the fragrance sampling event had booked rooms there. The prices varied depending on the floor, each level offering a different tier of exclusivity.

Evelyn waited a few extra moments before stepping into the elevator that would take her to Alexander’s suite. She hadn’t paid much attention to the time, but when she reached his floor, the silence was almost eerie. It was as if the entire level had been emptied of guests. The plush carpet muffled her footsteps as she made her way down the hall, her heart beating just a little faster.

When she arrived, Alexander’s door was already open.

"Did you reserve the entire floor?" she asked, pausing at the threshold. Her gaze swept down the empty corridor, confirming her suspicion.

"Of course. Privacy is non-negotiable," Alexander replied smoothly, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. And to him, it was. "You took your time."

Before she could respond, he reached for her, pulling her into his arms. As punishment for her delay, he dipped his head and nipped lightly at her earlobe.

Evelyn shivered, squirming away with a breathless laugh. "I came as soon as I could, but there were people around. I couldn’t risk being seen."

"People?" Alexander’s expression darkened at the memory of Dominic. "I only saw one nuisance." His voice was laced with irritation. He didn’t care about Dominic—not really—but the sight of him approaching Evelyn had ignited a possessive fury in Alexander’s chest.

"I meant Victoria," Evelyn corrected, playfully swatting his hand away. She could practically feel the jealousy rolling off him, and it amused her. Mimicking his tone, she added, "After you left, Victoria showed up and—well, she handled the nuisance for me."

Alexander’s lips curved in approval. "She deserves a bonus."

Evelyn laughed, imagining Victoria’s bewildered expression if she found out she was being rewarded for shooing away an unwanted admirer.

"You’re distracted," Alexander murmured, turning her to face him fully. He didn’t like when her thoughts wandered elsewhere, especially when he wanted her undivided attention. So he claimed her lips in a deep, punishing kiss, leaving no room for further distractions.

Evelyn melted into him, her arms winding around his neck. With him, she always felt this—this overwhelming sense of rightness. When they finally broke apart, Alexander nuzzled his nose against hers, his breath warm against her skin.

"Aren’t you curious about what Dominic said to me?" Evelyn asked, expecting him to question their exchange. After all, he’d been watching them the entire time.

"Not even slightly," Alexander replied, his voice dripping with disdain. "Whatever came out of his mouth was undoubtedly worthless."

Evelyn blinked, impressed by how accurately he’d guessed. She almost wanted to applaud.

"That temporary fix he provided for your problem went straight to his head," Alexander continued, releasing her to prepare a cup of tea. Steam curled around his face as he poured the hot water, his profile striking against the mist. "He wanted to gloat. Pathetic."

Evelyn watched him, her heart skipping at the sight. Even something as simple as making tea looked regal when Alexander did it.