Chapter 134

The sudden ringtone of "Fight Song" shattered the tense moment between Evelyn and Nathaniel.

She blinked, snapping out of the haze. The charged atmosphere evaporated instantly.

Meeting Nathaniel's dark, intense gaze made her skin prickle. She took an awkward step back, fumbling for her phone.

Cassandra's name flashed on the screen. Before Evelyn could answer, her half-sister's shrill voice pierced through the bathroom door.

"I know you're hiding in there, Evelyn! That awful ringtone is unmistakable! Get out here now! Stop slacking off!"

Evelyn's lips twisted in annoyance. She glanced up at Nathaniel and shrugged. "You heard her. Duty calls."

Nathaniel remained motionless, his expression unreadable.

She tried to slip past him, pausing to add, "Stay here for a minute. If she sees us together, there'll be questions."

His arm shot out, pulling her flush against his chest. The sudden movement made her gasp.

His breath was hot against her ear as he growled, "No drinking with other men."

The command sent shivers down her spine. "Understood," she managed to reply.

Even without seeing his face, she felt the raw possessiveness radiating from him.

But she knew better. This wasn't about desire - just his damn control issues.

The realization left a bitter taste in her mouth. Like a stone sinking to the bottom of a lake, the weight of it settled heavily in her chest.

Evelyn pushed through the bathroom door.

Cassandra stood with arms crossed, tapping her designer heels impatiently. "Finally! Do you think I pay you to hide in bathrooms?"

Evelyn stretched lazily. "It's 10:30. My shift ended half an hour ago."

"Your shift?" Cassandra scoffed. "You think you can just walk out? You still need to apologize properly to Nathaniel for scalding him!"

"I already did. If he needs ointment, I'll buy some." Evelyn rolled her shoulders. "I told you I didn't want to come. You forced me to pour tea."

Cassandra's mouth opened and closed like a fish.

Yawning, Evelyn turned toward the stairs. "I'm done for tonight. See you tomorrow."

"Get back here!" Cassandra shrieked, stomping her foot. "Evelyn Whitmore, I'm not finished with you!"

Evelyn didn't even glance back as she descended the stairs. Not worth the effort.

Cassandra's nails dug into her palms. If she wasn't waiting for Vincent, she'd drag that country bumpkin back by her hair. Motherless brat!

Muttering curses, Cassandra spun around - and froze.

Nathaniel emerged from the bathroom, his tailored suit impeccable, his expression unreadable.