Chapter 350

"It's fine. I'm not busy. Just wanted to discuss Danielle with you." Evelyn glanced at her watch. "Where are you? She's probably searching for you at the office right now."

"Handling some errands. I'll be there in thirty." Gregory's voice crackled through the car speakers. Danielle always gave him a migraine. "Did she disturb you? I suggested she visit a friend last night, but she assumed it was a therapist. Now she's upset."

"She didn't bother me. But you need to resolve this. The entire office shouldn't suffer because of her." Evelyn tapped her pen against the desk. "Her obsession with you is unhealthy. It's affecting everyone."

"I know."

"We'll talk more at the office."

Hanging up, Evelyn turned to Gabrielle. "Is she still here?"

"Waiting in Mr. Wilson's office."

"Good. Tell everyone to steer clear of her. No unnecessary interactions." Evelyn massaged her temples.

As she reached for her phone to order lunch, it buzzed.

Victoria's name flashed on the screen. Evelyn hesitated before answering. "Hello?"

"Evelyn, darling. Have you eaten?" Victoria's tone was honeyed.

"Not yet. I was just about to order." Evelyn straightened in her chair. "What about you?"

"Perfect timing. Come downstairs. I'm waiting outside your building." Victoria's laugh tinkled. "Let's have lunch together. It's been too long."

"Of course. I'll be right down."

Evelyn welcomed the distraction. Unlike other society matrons, Victoria treated her like an equal. Their conversations flowed effortlessly.

They chose an upscale bistro nearby. Over seared scallops, Victoria's demeanor shifted.

"Evelyn," she began carefully, "how are things with Nathaniel lately?"

"Fine." Evelyn sipped her sparkling water. "Why?"

"Has he mentioned anything to you?"

Evelyn shook her head, perplexed. "No."

Victoria's smile didn't reach her eyes. "After this, I want to show you something."

A chill crept down Evelyn's spine. Victoria's sudden coldness clearly concerned Nathaniel. The mystery only deepened Evelyn's curiosity.

Their relationship had been improving lately. While Victoria excused herself, Evelyn quickly texted Nathaniel: [Where are you?]

His reply came seconds later: [Client meeting. Miss me already?]

Evelyn rolled her eyes and flipped her phone face down.

"Something amusing?" Victoria reappeared, smoothing her silk blouse.

"Just spam messages."

Lately, Nathaniel had been testing boundaries with his flirtatious texts. Each one made her pulse stutter dangerously. She couldn't afford to fall for him again—not when she knew how badly it would end.

After lunch, Victoria led her through winding alleys to a hidden café.

Evelyn hesitated at the unmarked door. "Where exactly are we going?"