Chapter 363

Evelyn's lips curled into a cold smirk as she gazed down at the groaning men at her feet. "I can manage on my own," she stated flatly, her voice devoid of any warmth. "Your assistance isn't required."

The group exchanged stunned glances.

Damian had ordered them to restrain Evelyn. But after witnessing what just happened, none dared lay a finger on her now.

Having seen Harrison's capabilities firsthand, they scrambled to their feet with shared understanding.

Retreat was their only option.

"Ms. Carter, this way please." Their tone had lost all its previous arrogance.

Taking the lead, they began guiding Evelyn forward.

Suddenly, a strong hand enveloped hers, sending unexpected warmth through her fingers. She turned to meet Harrison's steady gaze.

Strangely, her racing heart calmed instantly.

Hand in hand, they walked side by side.

The island's weather mirrored the tension - heavy clouds smothering the sunlight, creating an oppressive atmosphere.

As they progressed, Evelyn noticed their path winding unusually. Harrison leaned in, his whisper barely audible. "They've laid a maze formation here."

Evelyn's eyes widened.

Who still practiced ancient maze formations in this modern age?

"It's not complex," Harrison continued, "but enough to trap the unaware for days."

Evelyn's expression darkened. Damian's knowledge of such techniques revealed depths she hadn't anticipated. He was far more dangerous than she'd imagined.

"Keep moving! No dawdling!" their escort snapped impatiently.

Exchanging a knowing look, Evelyn and Harrison quickened their pace, carefully navigating the hidden pattern.

Finally, they reached a dilapidated structure. Their guide triggered a hidden mechanism on the doorframe, revealing a dim, narrow passage behind the rising iron gate.

"Stay close. Don't get lost."

The flickering lights illuminated their hundred-foot descent into the underground complex.

Then came that chillingly familiar voice. "Ms. Carter, what a pleasure to see you again."

Evelyn's gaze snapped toward the sound.

The face before her bore no resemblance to Damian's remembered features - more flamboyant, with delicate, almost feminine bone structure.

The man lounged on an ornate throne, his malicious grin exposing undisguised contempt.

Yet the voice left no doubt - this was Damian. Her family's failed searches made sense now; he'd reinvented himself completely.

"I never took you for a man who'd change his face," Evelyn remarked coolly. "You're full of surprises, Damian. I'm... impressed."

Damian traced his new features absently, offering no explanation. "I do hope you've been well, Ms. Carter."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "You didn't go through all this trouble for small talk. What do you want?"

Rising gracefully, Damian descended the steps with deceptive elegance. To an unknowing observer, he might appear merely a charming aristocrat.

He stopped inches from Evelyn, his mocking tone sending chills down her spine. "I crossed oceans to reach Pamore just for you, Ms. Carter. Doesn't that move you?"

Evelyn lifted her chin, meeting his gaze without flinching.