Chapter 380

Evelyn's fingers froze mid-air.

A faint echo resonated from within the wall.

Adrian moved swiftly to her side, catching the unusual sound.

This was his third time entering this basement.

The first two attempts had yielded nothing.

He lowered his voice. "There's a hidden layer."

Evelyn's eyes gleamed. "This wall was added later. Something's definitely concealed inside."

She glanced at her wristwatch.

Only thirty minutes remained before the banquet ended.

Her fingers tapped rapidly along the wall surface.

A hollow "thunk" sounded at one particular spot.

This section was noticeably wider than the surrounding walls.

She pressed firmly with her fingertips.

A concealed door sprang open.

Adrian's eyes flashed with admiration.

This woman never ceased to surprise him.

But the biometric lock inside made him frown. "It's the latest security model."

Evelyn's lips curved. "The mighty underworld king stumped by such a simple device?"

Adrian fell silent.

He suddenly remembered the lock's designer.

"You work at Sterling Manor. You should know this system."

Evelyn nodded. "The young mistress designed it personally. Of course I know it."

"You've met her?" Adrian couldn't hide his surprise.

Another nod.

Adrian leaned against the wall with interest. "Rumors say the young mistress never leaves her residence. Even company executives rarely see her. The gossip claims—"

"Claims what?" Evelyn's hands stilled.

"That she's housebound and... overweight."

Evelyn's fingers clenched.

Who dared spread such vile rumors?

"Our young mistress is Sterling Manor's brightest jewel." Her voice turned icy. "Those gossipmongers are just jealous."

Anger simmered as she added, "In this world, good deeds never outshine vicious tongues. The wicked only see darkness."

Adrian studied her furious profile.

Something felt both familiar and strange about her.

He chuckled softly. "Well said."

Evelyn gestured behind her. "Step back."

Adrian obediently retreated two paces.

But his gaze remained fixed on her.

Time was running out.

Evelyn took a deep breath, focusing entirely on the lock.

Two attempts failed.

Only one chance remained.

Adrian warned, "Another mistake will trigger the alarm."

She closed her eyes, steadying her breathing.

The numbers "3399" flashed through her mind—her computer password.

Eternal love...

The lock's display showed "92131".

Suddenly, inspiration struck.

Love for eternity.

Her fingers flew over the final digit.

"Beep—"

The lock disengaged with a click.