Chapter 28

Evelyn's fingers twitched with the urge to trace the contours of Alexander's sun-kissed skin, the defined muscles beneath begging for her touch. Her throat tightened as she swallowed hard.

"Evelyn? Evelyn?!" Dominic's voice crackled through the phone, sharp with impatience when met with silence. He thought she'd disconnected.

Her breath hitched as Alexander's towering frame leaned in, his presence overwhelming. His chiseled features drew nearer, the heat of his body radiating against her skin.

Just as their lips were about to meet—

He tilted his head at the last second, brushing his lips against the delicate curve of her cheek, right beside her ear. Then, without another word, he straightened and strode toward the walk-in closet.

Thud.

The phone slipped from Evelyn's grasp, tumbling onto the plush carpet. A small mercy—had it hit the hardwood, it would've shattered.

Dominic's voice pierced through the speaker, sharp and demanding. "Evelyn! What the hell was that? Are you even listening?"

She crouched to retrieve the phone, wiping it clean with deliberate calm. "Mr. Reeves, what is it you wanted to say?" Her tone was measured, though her pulse still raced.

"You—!" He bit back his frustration, reminding himself to keep his temper in check—at least until after the press conference.

"The press conference is tonight," he said, forcing composure. "Meet me at DR Holdings. We'll go over everything on the way. We need to contain this scandal before it does irreversible damage."

Evelyn scoffed. "And what about the damage to me?"

A pause. Then, in a voice laced with false warmth, he murmured, "Evelyn, you know how much DR Holdings means to us. It's our legacy. You've poured your soul into it—surely you don’t want to see it ruined?"

She clenched her jaw.

"Once this blows over," he continued smoothly, "we’ll get married. Just like we planned."

Empty promises. She’d heard them before.

"Fine," she relented, feigning reluctant agreement. "You're right. I have sacrificed too much to let it crumble now."

But if I built it up, I can tear it down just as easily.

Dominic exhaled in relief. "Good. Get here as soon as you can."

The moment the call ended, Evelyn straightened—only to find Alexander already in his robe, as if preparing to retire for the night.

"I have to leave," she said bluntly. "The press conference is tonight."

No point hiding it. He’d find out eventually.

Alexander arched a brow, closing the distance between them with slow, deliberate steps. "No need to rush. It’s still early." His voice was a low purr. "I’ve already drawn your bath. Everything you need is ready."