Chapter 280
The afternoon sun cast long shadows as Evelyn Carter stepped out of the office. With the refrigerator at home nearly empty, she decided to make a quick stop at the supermarket.
There was no rush, so she took her time browsing the aisles, picking up fresh produce and pantry staples. Afterward, she detoured to a renowned patisserie, indulging in a box of delicate pastries before finally hailing a cab.
It was only when she deviated from her usual route that she noticed something—or rather, someone—was off.
Years of self-defense training had sharpened her instincts. The prickle at the back of her neck told her she was being followed.
At first, she dismissed it as paranoia. But after several deliberate turns, the presence remained.
Unease settled in her chest.
Who would tail her? And why?
She gave the driver Sophia Grant’s address instead of her own. She needed to discuss the postponed trip, and besides, she vaguely remembered the way—through a narrow alley that led to the back of the building.
Evelyn slowed her steps as she entered the alley, then abruptly stopped, pretending to adjust her shoelaces.
If they wanted to make a move, now was their chance.
Yet—nothing.
The sensation of being watched persisted, but the pursuer kept a careful distance. No sudden attack, no ambush.
Paparazzi? Unlikely. She wasn’t famous, and few knew about her connection to Alexander Kensington.
Reaching Sophia’s building, she hesitated, trying to recall which floor she lived on. Tired of the game, she decided to call instead.
Then—she acted.
Evelyn spun around, catching her stalker mid-step.
The narrow alley left no room for escape.
"Vanessa?" Shock flickered through her.
No paparazzi would be this clumsy.
"Why are you following me?"
Vanessa Blake flushed, caught red-handed, but quickly masked her embarrassment with defiance. "So what if I am?"
Evelyn stayed silent, refusing to rise to the bait.
Vanessa’s lips twisted. "At least I’m not sneaky and underhanded like you!"
Evelyn blinked.
What was that supposed to mean?