Chapter 282

Alexander Whitmore had arranged an exquisite Omakase experience for Evelyn, knowing her fondness for unexpected delights. The bluefin tuna, flown in fresh that morning, melted like butter on her tongue.

Each tempura piece was a masterpiece - golden crisp outside, succulent within. The sashimi glistened with oceanic freshness, its texture like silk against her palate.

Evelyn found herself enchanted by every meticulously crafted dish. The fine wine flowed freely, loosening her usual reserve around Alexander.

To her surprise, Alexander proved a renaissance man. Their conversation danced from Proust to Prokofiev, from classic literature to contemporary gaming culture. There wasn't a subject the Whitmore heir couldn't discuss with surprising depth.

The real revelation came when they discovered their shared passion for an obscure MMORPG. Both favored the high-risk berserker class. Evelyn's cheeks flushed pink with excitement as she animatedly described her favorite combat strategies, hands sketching elaborate maneuvers in the air.

Alexander watched her with amused indulgence, letting her dominate the conversation. When they finally left the restaurant, their talk had remained refreshingly casual - no business proposals, no awkward negotiations.

As their chauffeurs pulled up, Alexander anticipated her unspoken question. "Evelyn," he said smoothly, "whenever you're ready with the Monarch Grand proposal, send it over. We'll review and proceed directly to signing."

Evelyn hesitated. "Alexander... choosing me over Nathan today - was this about giving him consequences?"

His expression remained unreadable, that faint smile playing on his lips.

"The business world isn't personal," she continued gently. "You should prioritize your interests. While Nathan and I have... history, I won't leverage our friendship unfairly. Review both proposals objectively."

Driving away from Whitmore Gardens, Evelyn wrestled with unease. Part of her wanted to relish Nathan's setback, but another part rebelled against advancing through a man's favor - even Alexander's.

She'd built her independence precisely to avoid such dependencies.

Alexander studied her thoughtfully. "You're right, of course," he conceded. Then added with quiet conviction, "But even if Nathan presents the superior proposal, I'd still choose you."

Evelyn blinked, momentarily speechless. Had he heard anything she'd just said?

His smile deepened. "I understand your principles, Evelyn. But my approach values established relationships. Nathan's a stranger; you're..." He paused meaningfully, "...someone I've known forever."

The warmth in his voice sent an unexpected flutter through her. She looked away, suddenly self-conscious.

"I appreciate your confidence," she managed. "Though with recent hotel developments, my proposal may take longer than expected."

Alexander opened her car door. "Take all the time you need." As she settled in, he lingered at the window. "Aren't you curious what Nathan wanted to discuss earlier?"

Evelyn laughed, the sound bright with genuine amusement. "Not remotely. That chapter is closed." With a final wave, she departed, leaving Alexander watching her taillights disappear into the night.