Chapter 154

Sebastian sighed, shaking his head. "She climbed out through the office window and came in from the restroom. Simple as that."

Seraphina's frown deepened. "But we're on the thirtieth floor."

He shrugged. "My rock-climbing gear was in the lounge. Handy coincidence. For someone with her skills, it's nothing."

Seraphina removed her gold-rimmed glasses, rubbing her temples. "And who's in the office right now?"

"Your secretary. The boss told her to wear the mask, change into her clothes, and pretend to be busy."

"...Brilliant."

Sebastian narrowed his eyes, thoughtful. "Why do you think she’s so determined to keep Nathaniel from finding out she’s Stardust?"

Seraphina shot him a warning look. "She has her reasons. It’s not our ce to speculate."

He stroked his chin. "I don’t buy that Nathaniel isn’t even slightly interested. I’m going to test him."

Disgust flashed across her face. "Test him? Don’t stir trouble and piss her off!"

"Relax. You’ll hear good news soon." With a smirk, he waved and dashed toward the elevator.

Inside the descending elevator, Nathaniel’s deep voice cut through the silence. "Have you eaten yet?" The rich timbre of his words filled the confined space, enough to make anyone’s pulse skip.

Beside him, Cassandra flushed, fingers twisting nervously. "Not yet. Have you?"

His expression remained unreadable, distant. The elevator held only his secretary and Evelyn, Cassandra’s assistant. She assumed the question was for her.

When he didn’t respond immediately, the silence grew awkward. Cassandra cleared her throat. "If you haven’t, let me treat you to lunch. Consider it an apology for my assistant burning you last night."

Again, no answer. His gaze slid to Evelyn, who stood in the corner, scrolling through her phone with utter indifference.

Nathaniel’s eyes darkened. After a beat, he said, "Fine."

Cassandra nearly vibrated with excitement. He agreed! This was a sign—he had to like her. Why else would he say yes?

Then Evelyn glanced up, tone flat. "Can I take the rest of the day off? I’m exhausted."

Cassandra barely hid her relief. Perfect. "Of course. Go rest."

Evelyn smiled faintly. "Thanks."

Nathaniel’s jaw tightened. She’s avoiding me.

"Wasn’t Miss Evelyn the one who burned me?" His voice turned icy. "Shouldn’t the offender be present for the apology?"

Cassandra froze. "She’s not feeling well—"

His laugh was sharp. "Then there’s no sincerity here. Forget lunch."

Panicked, she grabbed Evelyn’s arm. "Evelyn. You’re coming. Apologize properly, then you can leave."

Evelyn exhaled through her nose. "...Fine."