Chapter 362

The sunlight streaming through the windows cast long shadows across the room, but it was his gaze that caught her attention.

"It's not etched on your face," he remarked, his voice smooth as silk. "But in your eyes. They hold a depth of wisdom."

Evelyn blinked, caught off guard.

The man switched effortlessly to English, his fluency impeccable.

"You're quite eloquent," she replied, sidestepping his observation.

A pleased smile curved his lips. "Thank you."

He seized the opportunity to introduce himself, extending a hand. "Julian Mercer. A pleasure."

Evelyn rose from her seat, ignoring his outstretched hand. "It's time to go back."

The organizers had reappeared, ushering them toward the main hall. The chatter died down, replaced by an uneasy silence that settled over the room like a heavy blanket.

When she returned to her seat, she noticed Julian sitting a few rows behind her, his eyes already fixed on her.

No wonder she hadn’t recognized him earlier.

Catching her glance, he grinned and gave a small wave.

Evelyn offered a curt nod before turning away, her expression unreadable.

Why is he so fixated on a stranger?

The examiner cleared his throat, drawing everyone’s attention.

"Your answer sheets have been reviewed. After careful consideration, we’ve decided to announce the final results now." He paused, then added, "But before that, Mr. Whitaker has a few words for you."

Polite applause filled the room as Harrison Whitaker stepped forward.

Impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, his presence commanded respect. His sharp eyes swept over the crowd, lingering—just for a fraction of a second—on Evelyn.

Her pulse quickened.

Was that because of Serena?

Harrison Whitaker wasn’t known for favoring connections. If anything, he despised nepotism.

"I’m pleased to see such talent gathered here today," he began, his voice firm. "You represent the finest minds of the past two years."

A murmur of pride rippled through the audience.

Then his expression darkened.

"But I’m also disappointed."

The room stilled.

Confusion flickered across faces.

No one understood what he meant.

Before anyone could react, he continued, his tone cutting. "What happened to professionalism?"

Silence.

Then, from the back, a voice challenged him. "Mr. Whitaker, if we’ve done something wrong, tell us. Who offended you?"

Another participant chimed in, defensive. "The test was designed to mislead. Neither option was your actual work, was it?"

Evelyn suppressed a smirk.

This was about to get interesting.