Chapter 177

"How did you figure that out?" Evelyn grinned as she settled into the chair across from Alexander, propping her chin on her hands. Her eyes sparkled with amusement. "Is there anything you don't know?"

Alexander poured steaming water into the delicate teacups with practiced ease. "Plenty," he admitted, his voice low and measured. "For example—when do you plan on telling the world about us?"

The intensity in his gaze made Evelyn laugh. "Mr. Kensington, the man who thrives in the shadows. Since when do you crave the spotlight?"

"Only for certain things." He dropped a tea bag into her cup and slid it toward her. "When it comes to us? I want everyone to know."

There was a possessiveness in his tone, a quiet declaration that sent warmth curling through her chest. He wanted the world to see her as his, to know she was untouchable.

Evelyn lowered her lashes, wrapping her fingers around the cup. The heat seeped into her skin, grounding her. "Oh, right," Alexander added abruptly. "Those two have been meeting with Lucien Dubois lately. Stay away from him."

Her fingers stilled just before touching the liquid. "Why?"

Something about Lucien had always unsettled her. At first, she assumed his presence at industry events was just business—Dominic’s company had hired him, after all.

But three things stood out: his suspicious closeness to Vanessa, his unexpected attendance at the sampling session, and now Alexander’s warning.

"He’s a prodigy in the international perfume scene. Brilliant, award-winning—but with a trail of rumors." Alexander set the kettle down and took his seat, cradling his own cup. "Some say he steals formulas. Others claim his products have caused issues."

He exhaled, frowning. "He vanished for months. I didn’t expect him to resurface here, and—" A pause. "Let’s just say his personal conduct is questionable."

Evelyn arched a brow. "With women?"

Alexander’s jaw tightened. "Yes. There was an accusation—dismissed due to lack of evidence. But where there’s smoke..." His gaze locked onto hers. "Just steer clear."

"I wasn’t planning on cozying up to anyone from DR Holdings anyway," she assured him.

That seemed to satisfy him. He took a slow sip, then—without warning—asked, "About last night... Are you okay?"

Evelyn choked on her tea.

What kind of question is that?!

Her face burned as she coughed into her hand, desperate to avoid his knowing smirk. But the memories flooded back anyway—his hands, his mouth, the way he—

Alexander watched her struggle with visible delight. "That reaction suggests dissatisfaction." He sighed dramatically. "We’ll have to try again."

Evelyn gaped at him.

Unbelievable.