Chapter 408

Dominic Reeves was just as clueless as Evelyn Carter about the recent events.

All he knew was that Vanessa Blake and Lucien Dubois had left for Laurentia. Nothing more.

Vanessa had cut all communication with him after her affair with Lucien was exposed, and Dominic hadn’t bothered to dig deeper.

Truthfully, he didn’t care enough to. Vanessa’s fate meant nothing to him—until DR Holdings’ new products were at stake.

Since they were still together when the fragrances were launched, both scents bore Vanessa’s name.

And even though she had betrayed him, it didn’t matter as long as the perfumes qualified for the championship.

Dominic had weighed his options and decided to keep her products in the competition—until Alexander Kensington dropped a bombshell.

"What do you mean? Vanessa masterminded a kidnapping? That’s impossible!"

Though he was no longer involved with her, Dominic was certain he knew her well enough to know she wouldn’t dare commit such a crime.

Vanessa was manipulative, yes. Materialistic, absolutely. But kidnapping? Covering for a drug addict? That was beyond her.

Who was this drug addict anyway?

"Instead of obsessing over things that aren’t yours, maybe you should pay attention to international news—especially in our industry," Alexander mocked.

"Take the advice or leave it. I’m just being generous."

"Shall we leave?"

Alexander turned to Evelyn, his gaze softening the moment it landed on her.

Nothing else existed in that moment—just her.

There was no reason for Evelyn to stay any longer.

Alexander’s presence alone was proof enough that she would never return to Dominic—no words needed.

From Dominic’s stunned expression, it was clear the realization had hit him hard.

"Okay," Evelyn nodded, rising gracefully under Alexander’s protective touch.

He draped his coat over her shoulders and guided her out, not sparing Dominic another glance.

But after a few steps, Alexander paused and turned back.

"Oh, and do the decent thing—pay the bill. You did invite Evelyn out, after all."

Evelyn had expected something serious—maybe a final warning.

Instead, she barely suppressed a laugh until they reached the lobby.

Alexander smirked. "Go ahead. Laugh."

And she did—so hard tears pricked her eyes.

"My presence delights you that much?" Alexander teased. "If I’d known, I would’ve shown up sooner. Maybe I should make a habit of it."

Evelyn shook her head, still grinning. "I thought you would pay."

She knew Alexander was more than capable of covering the bill without a second thought.

"He invited you. Why should I pay?" Alexander countered. "He should be grateful I didn’t order the entire menu."

Evelyn chuckled, imagining Dominic’s face when the check arrived.

Alexander had a way of getting under people’s skin—effortlessly.

"So," she said, tilting her head. "About Vanessa’s case. You swore you weren’t involved."

Her eyes sparkled with amusement—and accusation.

She knew better.