Chapter 132

The tension in the tea room dissolved the moment Evelyn stepped out, though Vincent's displeasure was evident at having his pitch interrupted. Dismissing the earlier incident with the rude assistant, he refocused on presenting his screenplay to Nathaniel, Dominic, and Harrison.

Cassandra played the perfect hostess, leaning forward to refill the executives' teacups. She lingered noticeably longer when pouring Nathaniel's drink.

Without warning, he stood abruptly. "Excuse me."

Nathaniel's expression darkened when he exited and found no sign of Evelyn.

At the VIP restroom near the tea room entrance, the door swung open suddenly. Evelyn peeked out. "In here," she said before retreating inside, leaving the door ajar.

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed as he strode forward, entering before slamming the door shut behind him.

Tilting her head up to meet his gaze, Evelyn kept her voice even. "Whatever you need to say, say it here."

His piercing stare held mocking amusement. "Pretending not to know me earlier?"

Her lips twitched. "Given our different social circles, I didn't see the need for public recognition."

"No need?" His voice dropped dangerously.

Evelyn nodded. "You only married me to appease your family. I'll play my part when we're with them, but here? No performance required."

Nathaniel's cold laugh sent chills down her spine. "Embarrassed by me? Or afraid people will discover you're tied to someone beneath you?"

"Hardly." She met his gaze steadily. "Your status elevates anyone associated with you. I simply prefer keeping our temporary arrangement private. Consider it compensation for my cooperation with your family."

For two heartbeats, silence stretched between them. Then his deep voice rumbled, "If that's what you want."

Relief washed over her. "Thank you for understanding."

This agreement lifted a weight from her shoulders - no more worrying about unwanted attention.

Suddenly, his fingers gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his stormy gaze. "Now explain what happened in there."

Evelyn's breath hitched. "What do you mean?"

His eyes turned glacial. "Your little performance before leaving."

"I was drinking juice!" she protested.

Nathaniel's eyebrow arched skeptically. "Juice? Was sharing a glass with another man necessary?"