Chapter 491

Julian's fingers trembled with anticipation as he tore off his shirt. The belt slid from his trousers with a metallic clink.

"Don't waste time, darling," he purred, raking his gaze over Evelyn's frame. "That porcelain skin of yours is perfect as it is. And that scent—like roses dipped in honey. Skip the bath. Just strip and get on that bed."

Evelyn batted her lashes, dipping her chin with faux shyness. "Alright... but close your eyes first. I can't undress with you watching. It's embarrassing."

Julian's grin widened. She was playing along—exactly what he wanted.

"Such a tease, my sweet little vixen. Fine, I'll humor you." He squeezed his eyes shut dramatically. "No peeking. Scout's honor."

The moment his lids sealed, Evelyn's demure mask shattered. Her phone slid from her pocket, camera app already open. The red recording light blinked as she angled it at Julian's face.

Her voice dripped saccharine venom. "Tell me, Julian... who claimed I'd be such... entertaining company?"

Julian's tongue darted over his lips. "Why question a gift? Just get naked. I'm dying to see what's under that dress."

Evelyn fake-pouted. "Naughty boys don't get rewards. Who talked?"

A wet chuckle. "Gabrielle, obviously. Said you're a wildcat in silk sheets. Now stop stalling—"

Gabrielle. Of course.

Evelyn's giggle was all honeyed malice. "And you believed her? What if she lied?"

"Don't care." Julian's voice turned guttural. "You're mine tonight."

"What if I refuse?"

His laugh was a predator's growl. "Then I'll take what I want. Rough or gentle—your choice."

Evelyn's smile turned arctic. "Open your eyes, Julian."

When he did, his face twisted in rage. She stood fully clothed, phone raised like a weapon.

"You bitch! You—"

The video playback cut him off. Julian's own voice boomed: "I'll take what I want. Rough or gentle—your choice."

Evelyn pocketed the phone. "Funny thing about those 'games' Gabrielle mentioned. I don't play them." She tilted her head. "But courts do. And this footage? Textbook attempted rape."

Julian lunged—just as a shrill voice pierced the door.

"Samuel! Your secretary Evelyn went in there with some man! Should we... intervene?"

Gabrielle.

Evelyn's lips curled. Setting me up? How original.

The knob rattled violently. Then a voice like cracking ice:

"Open. This. Door."

Samuel.