Chapter 89

The closed door left everything to the imagination.

Nathaniel tilted his head to light a cigar. He exhaled slowly, leaning against the wall as smoke curled around his chiseled features.

Inside the private room.

Pulsing electronic beats and strobe lights created a chaotic party atmosphere.

"Evelyn, what are your plans after graduation?" Julian had to shout despite sitting right beside her, his voice barely audible over the music.

Evelyn straightened up, raising her voice in response. "Still figuring it out. But why are you here? You're not graduating this year."

Julian's lips curved shyly. "Well... some close friends graduated today. They invited me."

She nodded in understanding.

Truthfully, Julian had come for her. With Evelyn graduating, seeing her would become difficult. He'd been secretly in love for three years - ever since spotting her during freshman orientation.

That morning, he'd finally confessed. She'd gently refused. But he wasn't giving up. As long as Evelyn remained single, hope remained.

Julian grabbed two cocktail glasses, handing one to Evelyn. "Let's toast! Whatever you do next, I'll work twice as hard to follow your example!"

She accepted the colorful drink with a smile. "No need to make me your role model. Just focus on your own path. You'll do great!"

Their glasses clinked with a delicate chime, instantly swallowed by the pounding bass.

Evelyn raised her drink, but before the sweet liquid could touch her lips, a large hand intercepted it.

"No drinking outside, little miss."

She looked up into Nathaniel's stern face mere inches from hers.

His expression darkened at her obvious displeasure.

"Time to go home," he stated, his deep voice cutting through the noise effortlessly.

'Home? I just got here,' she fumed silently.

Evelyn frowned. "It's barely 9 PM. Didn't I tell you this was my class celebration?"

Nathaniel's brow furrowed. "Does that include underage drinking?"

She bristled. 'Controlling much? I know my limits. One cocktail with friends is hardly reckless.'

Julian, recognizing Nathaniel from earlier, quickly intervened. "Sir, it's just a light cocktail - barely any alcohol. And I'll personally ensure Evelyn gets home safely if needed."

Nathaniel's eyebrow arched. "You'll ensure her safety?"

"Absolutely!" Julian nodded earnestly. "You can leave her with me!"

A dangerous smirk played on Nathaniel's lips. "Leave her with you? And what exactly is your relationship to my fiancée?"