Chapter 378

"Is the limousine prepared?"

Callum Blackwood rushed forward with an eager grin. "All set, Harrison. Your driver will take you directly to Coronia University's main gate."

Harrison Whitmore turned to Evelyn Carter with a questioning glance. "Shall we depart now?"

Evelyn gave a small nod before falling into step beside Harrison. As they moved toward the vehicle, Callum kept pace with animated chatter, pointing out various campus landmarks through the windows.

During the ride, Evelyn found herself mesmerized by the passing scenery outside her window. The familiar sights transported her back to her college days - a time of youthful innocence and carefree joy.

The crunch of gravel beneath tires snapped her from her reverie as they entered the university grounds. Sunlight filtered through towering oak trees, casting dappled shadows across the manicured lawns.

Once the car settled in its parking space, Callum announced with unnecessary flourish, "We've arrived at our destination!"

Harrison and Evelyn exited the vehicle while Callum wisely remained behind. With a theatrical wave, he called out, "I'll be right here if you need anything. Just text me!"

Harrison surprised Evelyn by interlacing their fingers as they began walking. The cobblestone path beneath their feet sparked memories.

"Can you believe it's been nearly four years?" Evelyn murmured, her voice tinged with nostalgia. Three of those years had been wasted on Nathan Sterling - trapped in a loveless marriage she should have escaped sooner.

"Time does fly," Harrison agreed, his gaze lingering on her face. "In my mind, you're still that pigtailed girl who used to cry over scraped knees. Now look at you - a formidable CEO."

Evelyn's cheeks flushed. "I was not a crybaby!" She protested, though her childhood memories had grown fuzzy with time.

Harrison's laughter rang out, rich and warm. "Oh, but you were. Those big tears could fill an ocean."

Their playful banter continued as they strolled through the campus, their joined hands swinging lightly between them.

Evelyn pointed excitedly. "That was my dorm! And over there's the dining hall. The archives we need are past the gymnasium, near the library."

So engrossed was she in her tour guide role that she failed to notice the curious gaze tracking their progress. The observing woman finally approached with tentative steps.

"Evelyn Carter? Is that truly you?"

Evelyn spun around to face Professor Katherine Whitaker, her former mentor. "Professor Whitaker!" She rushed forward to embrace the older woman. "It's been ages!"

"I thought my eyes were deceiving me," Katherine said, holding Evelyn at arm's length to study her. "You've blossomed into such a striking woman. And married now, I hear?" Her gaze shifted meaningfully to Harrison. "Is this your husband? What a handsome couple you make!"

Before Evelyn could correct the assumption, Harrison smoothly extended his hand. "Harrison Whitmore, at your service, Professor. Please, call me Harrison."