Chapter 260

Evelyn watched as the young woodcarver's shoulders slumped, his defensive posture melting away like morning frost under sunlight.

"This timber is too precious for practice pieces," she observed, studying the intricate grain patterns. "At most, you could craft one or two small items, never anything substantial." His profile told her everything - the truth shone in his downcast eyes.

"Who said I'm practicing?" Julian Mercer's voice dropped to a whisper. "These are personal creations."

"Then don't strain yourself," Evelyn offered gently. "It's fine if you can't fulfill my request."

Julian's head snapped up. "I'll use different wood for your commission," he conceded after a tense silence. "But this piece stays with me." His fingers curled protectively around the reddish-brown wood.

"Why do you want this scrap anyway?" Suspicion darkened his features as he scrutinized her face.

Evelyn's lips curved knowingly. "That's my business. Nothing sinister, I promise." She tilted her head. "Do we have a deal?"

The standoff lasted several heartbeats. Finally, Julian's grip relaxed. "Fine. A small piece only." His warning glare could have chiseled stone. "No changing your mind later."

"Agreed." Evelyn nodded.

As Julian turned to leave, realization struck. "Wait! I never got your name!"

Sunlight gilded his retreating figure when he paused. "Julian Mercer," floated back to her. The elegant name contrasted sharply with his rough demeanor.

Evelyn resumed walking only when Julian disappeared around the corner. She'd taken barely ten steps when a towering silhouette blocked the narrow alleyway.

Recognition flickered - that chiseled jawline, the expensive wool coat. Lucien Dubois. Dominic Reeves' associate from Silverpine Valley. The foreign perfumer who'd attended the evaluation as VIP guest.

Her stomach tightened. What business could this overseas tycoon have with her?

"Ms. Carter." Lucien's accented voice had improved since their last encounter. His gaze raked over her like a jeweler appraising flawed gemstone.

Evelyn's spine straightened. "Excuse me." Ice coated her words.

Instead of moving, Lucien's hand shot out, blocking her path completely. The gold cufflink at his wrist gleamed ominously.