Chapter 496

Harrison's fingers tightened around Evelyn's wrist as she rambled on. The sudden contact made her blink in surprise.

"What's wrong?" she asked, tilting her head.

He studied her face, emotions warring behind his composed expression. Finally, he murmured, "Perhaps the color was contaminated."

Evelyn's eyes lit up instantly. "You think so too? I knew it! He wouldn't have stood me up intentionally. But where could he have gone? He'll definitely come find me once he finishes whatever kept him away."

Harrison gave a noncommittal hum and turned his gaze toward the horizon. The sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, mirroring the turmoil in his chest.

"You know," he said lightly, "I flew all this way to see you, and all you talk about is another man. That's rather cruel, don't you think?"

Evelyn flushed. She looped her arm through his with practiced ease. "I'm sorry, Harrison. I didn't expect you to visit. I'm truly happy you're here."

She gestured toward the campus gates. "There's this amazing taco stand near the library, and the botanical gardens are stunning this time of year. You should stay a few days. I'll show you all my favorite spots."

The way her eyes sparkled when she spoke made Harrison's chest tighten. As her familiar vanilla scent enveloped him, the restless feeling that had plagued him for months finally settled.

—

On New Year's Eve, they watched fireworks explode over the city skyline.

Throughout Evelyn's graduate studies, Harrison became a regular on flights between Frenda and Coronia. His passport accumulated over a hundred stamps during those years.

The exhausting commute was worth it. For the first time, Harrison felt purpose guiding his steps.

And the mysterious man Evelyn kept mentioning never reappeared—a fact that filled Harrison with quiet hope.

Time passed in a blur of research papers and weekend visits. Before they knew it, graduation day arrived. Harrison had waited years for this moment.

"Don't overthink it," Elliot advised, adjusting Harrison's tie for the third time. "Just be yourself."

Julian smirked from his perch on the armchair. "Relax. When Evelyn sees what you've planned, she'll be sobbing before you even get down on one knee."

As Harrison's closest friends, they'd witnessed every step of this slow-burning romance. In their eyes, no one deserved Evelyn more.

"Welcome to the family," Elliot said, clapping Harrison's shoulder. "But fair warning—if you ever hurt her, you'll have three very angry Kingsleys to answer to."

Harrison met their gazes steadily. "I'd rather die than see her unhappy. Every breath I take is for her."

Julian pretended to gag. "Save the dramatic declarations for Evelyn. Grandpa and the others will be here soon—we need to finish setting up."

Elliot checked his watch. "Her ceremony ends at four. If you want to surprise her, you should leave now."

"Go," Julian urged, shoving Harrison toward the door. "We've got this covered."

Harrison nodded. "See you tonight."

The brothers watched him leave, exchanging knowing smiles. After all these years, their little sister was finally coming home.