Chapter 130

Jonathan swirled the amber liquid in his glass, studying Evelyn with an unreadable expression. "Tell me, Evelyn," he began, his voice smooth as velvet, "why would the esteemed Mrs. Grayson choose to work as a celebrity's assistant? Doesn't Nathaniel provide for you adequately?"

Evelyn didn't look up from her phone, fingers flying across the screen in a mobile game. "It's personal enrichment," she replied dismissively. "Money has nothing to do with it."

The amusement faded from Jonathan's striking features. "I'm genuinely concerned about you. If you're facing difficulties, I could—"

"Help me?" Evelyn interrupted with a dry chuckle, finally locking her phone. She fixed him with a piercing gaze, her emerald eyes glittering with mischief. "How very gallant of you, Sir Jonathan. But let's see if you mean it."

Jonathan blinked at the unexpected title. "Within reason, of course."

"Oh, this is perfectly reasonable." Evelyn leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. "Those three Vivian Sterling paintings I saw in your collection last week—I want them."

Jonathan's smile faltered. He'd meant to probe her situation, not find himself cornered.

"Fascinating," he murmured, recovering with a lazy grin. "But tell me, darling assistant, where would you get that kind of money? Running to Nathaniel for funds?" His eyes sharpened. "And why would he allow his wife to play assistant if he could easily support you?"

Evelyn's expression cooled. "My finances are none of your concern. Just answer the question—will you sell?"

"Not for any price."

Her face fell momentarily before she schooled her features. Those paintings were her mother's early works, irreplaceable pieces of family history she longed to reclaim.

Jonathan watched her carefully before adding, "Though I might gift them... under certain conditions."

Evelyn's eyes narrowed. "Name them."

His laughter rang out, rich and warm. "One drink. That's all I ask in exchange for three masterpieces."

She recoiled slightly. "Not tonight."

"Ah." Jonathan's knowing smirk returned. "Because your husband's here?"

Evelyn didn't answer. Though their marriage was contractual, Nathaniel maintained strict appearances. Any hint of impropriety—especially with a notorious charmer like Jonathan—would breach their agreement.

The unspoken tension between them crackled like static before a storm.