Chapter 162

She appeared icy on the surface, yet always turned shy in intimate moments, never daring to meet his piercing gaze.

Evelyn jolted awake, realizing her hands had been freed. Without hesitation, she delivered a stinging slap.

The sharp sound echoed through the private room.

She shoved the man before her with all her strength.

No more weakness.

One betrayal was enough. She wouldn’t let Adrian hurt her again.

A faint red mark bloomed on Adrian’s cheek, yet his lips curled into that same infuriating smirk. Dressed in light gray casual wear, he looked less like the ruthless business tycoon and more like someone lazily enjoying his day off.

"I’m not leaving this city," Evelyn said coolly. "And I won’t interfere with you and Isabella. If my presence bothers you, I’ll marry someone—anyone—to put your mind at ease."

Adrian’s eyes darkened. "Marry anyone?"

"What?" She scoffed. "Isn’t this what you want? To ensure I won’t disrupt Isabella’s life? You’d sleep better knowing I’m someone else’s problem, wouldn’t you?"

Rising to her feet, her gaze turned glacial. "I’ve never sought you out since the divorce. Every time, it’s been you chasing after me."

"From now on, I’ll avoid these places. We’ll see less of each other. But I’m staying—to avenge Alexander. Remember what I said? Pray his death has nothing to do with you. Otherwise..."

She turned to leave before finishing.

Adrian’s lips twisted into a mocking smile.

Of course. It was always about Alexander.

In her heart, there had never been room for him.

"If he were alive, would you have married him?" His voice was ice. He didn’t miss the slight tremor in her retreating figure.

The answer was obvious.

Evelyn didn’t respond.

If Alexander were still here... If she had understood love back then...

But there were no "ifs."

Adrian had been her first love—and the one who shattered her completely.

At the door, she nearly collided with Isabella, who was dressed head-to-toe in disguise.

"Where’s Adrian?" Isabella demanded shrilly.

Evelyn glanced behind her. "Your man. Why ask me?"

Inside the room, Adrian’s chest clenched with sudden pain. He approached slowly, offering Isabella a tender smile. "Bella, you’re here?"