Chapter 356

If Evelyn were to tell Alexander that Lucien had intended to inject her with drugs, she knew Alexander would lose control.

The consequences would be irreversible.

After a moment of consideration, Evelyn said, "I overheard the kidnappers discussing it when I regained consciousness. Oh, and they had a hideout where they kept me. The police must have seized it as evidence."

Alexander listened in silence.

Though he didn’t speak, his grip on her hand tightened gradually, betraying his unease.

Drugs at the hideout? What if she had accidentally come into contact with them? Worse—what if they had forced them on her? The thought alone made his blood run cold.

"Let’s go home," Alexander insisted, his voice firm.

He needed her back in their safe haven. The mere idea of what could have happened if the rescue had failed—if he hadn’t flown to her side—was unbearable.

Evelyn leaned against his shoulder but straightened abruptly at his words. "No! I still have the final round of the competition."

"You’re not going," Alexander stated flatly.

The competition, the prize—none of it mattered.

All he cared about was her safety.

"But—"

Evelyn bit her lip.

She understood his fear. He was only saying this because he loved her. With a soft sigh, she feigned resignation, lowering her lashes.

"Fine, I won’t participate. Even though I’ve prepared so much and was sure I could win… it doesn’t matter. Phoenix Labs and Adrienne will be disappointed, but that’s nothing compared to you."

She gave him a small, wistful smile. "No one would dare question your decision anyway. My colleagues might judge me, but who cares? I’ll just stay home, be a pampered wife—spa days, shopping, endless leisure. Sounds perfect, right?"

Despite her words, the reluctance in her expression was unmistakable.

Alexander saw right through her act.

He knew her ambitions, her passion. He had always supported her dreams—until now, when fear had nearly made him selfish.

His gaze lingered on her face. If he forced her to withdraw, the light in her eyes would dim.

With a defeated exhale, he relented. "Fine. You can go."

Evelyn’s eyes brightened instantly.

"But," he continued sternly, "you must prioritize your safety. Nothing—nothing—is more important than your life."

"I know. You’re the best."

She pressed a quick kiss to his cheek.

Alexander arched a brow. "That’s all?"

"Hmm?"

Before she could react, he cradled the back of her head and captured her lips in a deep, possessive kiss.

Her sweetness flooded his senses, the warmth of her against him the only thing that could soothe the lingering terror in his chest.

Even the slightest risk to her was unacceptable.

He pulled her closer, his arms locking around her as if he could shield her from the world.