Chapter 382

No.1

"My thanks, Mr. Sullivan."

"Enough pleasantries." He gestured wearily. "Ask your questions."

Evelyn hadn't expected such cooperation.

Their conversation flowed from tea ceremonies to rare artifacts, lasting until sunset painted the sky.

"Return another day." Vincent surprised her with an invitation. "I've more treasures to share."

......

When the side gate finally opened at dusk, Ethan nearly jumped.

No.2

"Miss Sinclair!"

The Rolls-Royce glided forward, blocking Evelyn's path.

The window lowered, revealing Alexander's elegant fingers tapping the doorframe.

His lazy drawl contrasted with the fire in his gaze.

"How will you thank me?"

Evelyn tilted her head slightly, confusion flickering in her eyes.

"Thank you?"

No.3

"Do you think you could've stepped into the Sullivan residence without my permission?" Alexander finally looked up, dark currents swirling in his gaze. "How was the interview, Miss Sinclair?"

He emphasized the last three words like a predator baring its fangs.

Evelyn's lashes trembled.

"You misunderstand, Mr. Kingsley." Her expression remained composed. "Mr. Sullivan never grants interviews. I came here to..."

A sly smile curved her lips. "...play hard to get."

Alexander's eyes turned glacial.

Her sharp tongue had certainly improved.

No.4

"Evelyn," his voice dropped dangerously low. "Don't test my patience."

She knew exactly what happened to those who crossed him.

Suddenly, Evelyn beamed. "How about... I give you half my salary this month?"

"Cough—"

Ethan nearly choked in the front seat.

He turned hesitantly, surprised to see Alexander's calm expression.

"Deal." The man pulled out his phone and opened his QR code. "Add me first."

No.5

Evelyn froze.

She'd blocked all his contacts when she left Royal Gardens.

Now he wanted to reconnect?

Absolutely not!

When she didn't move, Alexander's tone grew even gentler. "Or just give me your number?"

Her jaw clenched.

He still had her number saved.

No.6

This was clearly a trap to make her admit she'd blocked him.

"I..." She grasped at straws. "I'll pay you in cash."

"Add me first." Alexander pressed relentlessly. "In case you try to cheat me."

"I..."

"Or," his gaze turned arctic, "were you planning to renege all along?"

Their standoff was interrupted by the sudden appearance of the Sullivan butler.

"Miss Sinclair, the master asked me to escort you home."

No.7

Evelyn seized the lifeline, quickly stepping behind the butler.

The action ignited Alexander's fury.

His eyes darkened like storm clouds, the air around him turning oppressive.

"She's riding with me." Alexander yanked the car door open.

The butler remained unflappable. "The master prepared documents for Miss Sinclair to review during the ride."

Evelyn seized the chance to bow. "Please thank Mr. Sullivan for me."

Without a backward glance, she climbed into the Sullivan family car.