Chapter 158

The door swung open.

Julian Montgomery practically leaped inside, as though terrified Evelyn might suddenly change her mind and slam it shut again.

"Phew," he exhaled dramatically, running a hand through his windswept hair. "Getting past your security is harder than securing a reservation at Pivotage. The entry fee is practically extortionate."

His teasing words trailed off as his gaze landed on Evelyn.

She stood bathed in golden lamplight, wrapped in a silk robe that draped effortlessly over her curves. The delicate fabric clung to her damp skin, tied loosely at her slender waist. The steam from her bath had left her cheeks flushed, her lips slightly parted.

Julian's throat went dry.

His Adam's apple bobbed visibly.

"Theodore," Evelyn said coolly, arching a brow. "Would you mind telling Mr. Montgomery where his eyes should be?"

Theodore Winslow crossed his arms, his expression icy. "Certainly. On the ceiling. Or the floor. Anywhere but where they're currently fixed."

Julian merely grinned, unrepentant. "Beauty is meant to be admired. I'm simply appreciating divine craftsmanship. Purely artistic appreciation, I assure you." His smirk widened.

Theodore rolled his eyes so hard Evelyn half-expected them to get stuck. "Ah yes. First time I've heard someone justify leering with such... eloquence."

Evelyn's attention shifted to the ornate box in Julian's hands. "Is this Lillian Archer's work?"

"Indeed." Julian's entire demeanor brightened. "I managed to acquire two pieces. One for Reginald's birthday, and this—" He extended the box toward her with reverence. "—exclusively for you."

His eyes sparkled with unrestrained enthusiasm. "Evelyn, Lillian only releases ten handcrafted pieces annually. Do you have any idea how impossible these are to obtain?"

Evelyn cleared her throat lightly. "Have you eaten? If not, you're welcome to join us."

"Starving!" Julian pressed a dramatic hand to his stomach. "I've been camped outside your suite since five. Not a single crumb has passed these lips." His voice dropped to a theatrical whisper. "I may perish."

Theodore muttered something unflattering under his breath.

"Teddy," Evelyn said sweetly, carefully accepting the box. "Would you prepare another bowl of ramen for our guest? Extra spicy, please."

Julian blanched. "Extra—?" His voice cracked. "You're joking."

Theodore smirked. "Problem, Montgomery? I thought you had an iron stomach. Or does the Prince of Crestview only dine on gold-leaf truffles?"

Julian squared his shoulders. "Nonsense. I'll eat it." He swallowed hard. "But perhaps... mild? Just a suggestion."

Evelyn turned, catching the way his usually confident expression had morphed into something almost pitiful. She laughed—a soft, melodic sound that made Julian's pulse stutter.

Her cheeks dimpled. "Fine. No spice."

Julian exhaled as if granted a last-minute pardon. Then, watching the way her eyes crinkled at the corners, something warm and unfamiliar flared in his chest.

He'd heard of love at first sight.

This was something far more dangerous.

While Theodore disappeared into the kitchen, Julian and Evelyn settled in the living room. Her slender fingers traced the contours of the crystal sculpture—a breathtaking fan, its delicate folds carved from a single flawless piece of white crystal. It shimmered as if alive under her touch.

"Stunning," she breathed.

Julian wasn't looking at the artwork.

Her hands—elegant, precise—were more mesmerizing than any masterpiece. The way her fingertips glided over the crystal, the faint concentration between her brows...

"Do you like it?" Julian asked softly, propping his chin on his palm.

"Like it?" Evelyn's eyes sparkled. "Lillian Archer is my favorite contemporary artist. This is..." She shook her head, at a loss for words.

"Me too," Julian murmured. What he didn't say: I like you more.

Evelyn suddenly turned serious. "Julian, this is too generous. I can't accept it without reciprocation." She met his gaze squarely. "Name your price. I'll pay whatever it cost."

Julian recoiled as if struck. "Absolutely not." He pressed a hand to his heart. "You wound me, Evelyn. Truly."

"I'm serious. I planned to visit Serenia this year to purchase one of her pieces myself. This saves me the trip, but I insist on compensating you."

"Not a chance."

"Then name a condition." Evelyn leaned forward slightly. "Within reason, I'll agree."

Julian's grin turned wolfish. He closed the distance between them in one smooth motion.

"Perfect." His voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. "Reginald's birthday gala is next week. Accompany me?"