Chapter 108

The past six months had seen Evelyn's daughter steadily recovering.

Yet the mastermind behind it all remained at large.

Evelyn gave a slight nod. "Mr. Lowell, it's been a while."

"Wonderful! Natalie talks about you every day. She's returning next month. Miss Roland, that child has few friends—would you be willing to meet her then?" Theodore Lowell's eyes brimmed with paternal warmth.

Sebastian Cortez interjected smoothly, "Mr. Lowell, the business world operates on interests. A year ago, you chose to partner with Adrian Valentine while rejecting Evelyn, the very person who saved your daughter."

It wasn't resentment—just a matter of principle.

For the past year, he'd strictly limited collaborations with Adrian.

Those who harmed his sister would pay.

Theodore looked chastened. "A lapse in judgment. They claimed to be sisters, so I didn't question it."

Evelyn tugged Sebastian's sleeve lightly. "Let it go, Sebastian."

A cold glint flashed in Sebastian's eyes. "Though we should thank you, Mr. Lowell. Your rejection inspired Sterling Manor's heiress. Our proprietary raw materials launch next month."

Theodore nodded admiringly. "Sterling Manor breeds exceptional talent. Its heirs are truly extraordinary."

Sebastian's lips curved. "Too kind. Excuse us."

He guided Evelyn away, unaware of the scorching gaze from the shadows.

Sebastian settled Evelyn in the lounge. "Wait here, Evie. Scarlett's tied up at the moment."

She nodded obediently. "I'll play some games."

Who would've guessed the elusive Sterling Manor heiress was a gaming enthusiast?

Once alone, Evelyn immersed herself in a dance rhythm game.

The door burst open.

"Forget something?" she asked without looking up.

Silence.

When she lifted her gaze, she met bottomless dark eyes.

Her expression frosted over. "What are you doing here?"

A year was enough to still any lingering emotions.

Adrian Valentine remained strikingly handsome, though maturity now edged his features.

His corporation had broken into Vienna's top ten this year.

The media constantly featured him jet-setting with Isabella on private getaways.

Their delayed engagement meant nothing to her.

Adrian studied her luminous face.

She'd grown even more beautiful, her every glance radiating allure.

He advanced step by deliberate step.