Chapter 317

His assumption was spot on.

Evelyn Carter was absolutely prepared for dinner.

At first, she had planned to settle for something simple, but Alexander Kensington’s recommendation piqued her curiosity.

To Evelyn, the pleasures of life weren’t limited to crafting exquisite perfumes—indulging in fine cuisine was just as essential.

Food had to meet her expectations.

She had considered inviting Adrienne Laurent, but as she neared the assistant’s door, she hesitated.

The thought of enduring nonstop nagging throughout the meal made her reconsider.

Evelyn abandoned the idea and opted to order takeout for Adrienne instead. She hailed a cab and gave the driver the address of a restaurant at random.

Evelyn was, in fact, fluent in the Laurentian language.

Even if she were alone, communication wouldn’t be an issue—though few were aware of this skill.

Dominic Reeves himself might not have known she spoke multiple languages.

Evelyn had always been a quick study. She learned them purely out of interest—it made researching foreign fragrance ingredients and spice histories far easier.

Since she needed the knowledge, she mastered it.

It wasn’t something she felt the need to flaunt, so she never mentioned it.

Dining alone in a restaurant, ordering and eating by herself, felt much like traveling solo—comfortable, yet undeniably lonely.

As she sipped the rich red wine, she found herself missing Alexander more than ever.

"Evelyn!"

A familiar voice called out, followed by a bright, energetic figure appearing before her. "What a coincidence! I’d say this is fate! Here for dinner too?"

Evelyn hadn’t expected to run into Serena Whitaker again so soon. The odds were uncanny.

"Yes, a friend recommended it, so I thought I’d give it a try," Evelyn replied with a nod.

"Of course, this place is amazing!"

Serena beamed with pride before asking, "Have you tried anything yet? How is it?"

"It’s decent," Evelyn admitted. She had ordered the signature dish, which was enjoyable—though she still preferred home-cooked meals.

Serena was visibly delighted to see her.

She leaned in slightly and lowered her voice. "I didn’t think I’d run into you again so soon! I assumed I’d have to wait until tomorrow. By the way, are you here alone? Didn’t you come representing the company? Shouldn’t you have an assistant handling things for you?"

Evelyn arched a brow at the mention of the assistant she’d left behind.

"She’s resting at the hotel."

Adrienne was probably still fretting over tomorrow’s competition.

"Then your assistant is slacking! She should be taking care of your meals, transportation, wardrobe—everything! How could she just relax while you’re out dining alone?"

Serena’s disapproval was evident.

"I told her to rest," Evelyn clarified, rubbing her temple lightly. "I wanted some time alone."

Serena’s smile faltered slightly. "Oh… Am I intruding?"

"Not at all. It’s been a while since we last met. I’m happy to see you," Evelyn reassured her with a smile. "Are you here by yourself?"

Serena blinked, as if suddenly remembering something. "Oh! I completely forgot—I have an appointment!"

She glanced toward the interior of the restaurant. "I should go. Let’s catch up properly another time!"

"Of course," Evelyn agreed warmly.

With a quick wave, Serena hurried off.

Evelyn watched as she made her way to a table where another woman was already seated.