Chapter 391

The elevator doors slid shut.

Evelyn's gaze locked onto those familiar slender fingers. Her pupils contracted sharply.

When the doors reopened, Adrian's imposing figure filled the doorway. His tailored suit and immaculate tie radiated an aura of icy detachment.

She instinctively shifted toward the corner.

Her nails dug into her palms as she stared at the floor.

"Running away?" Adrian's deep voice echoed in the confined space. "You weren't so timid before."

Evelyn's head snapped up, disgust flashing in her eyes. "You misunderstand, Mr. Valentine. I simply find your presence nauseating."

"Nauseating?" His laugh was cold. "You didn't seem sickened when you were flirting with other men behind my back."

Her chest rose and fell rapidly. She'd explained this countless times—now it just felt absurd.

The air grew thick with tension.

Adrian's eyes dropped to her shopping bag. A mocking smirk appeared. "Even changed your sanitary pad brand?"

Her knuckles whitened around the bag. "We've been divorced for two years, Adrian."

"And?"

"And I want you to stay away." Each word was deliberate. "The sight of you makes me physically ill."

His gaze turned glacial. "Then why don't you leave Vienna?"

The words stabbed like a blade. Evelyn drew a steadying breath. "You're the one who should disappear. I'm staying—to marry, have children, and live well."

"Marry?" He stepped closer abruptly. "Who would dare take you?"

The doors pinged open.

"Evelyn!" Sebastian stood outside with a warm smile. "I'm here for our shopping trip."

The ice in her expression melted instantly. "Sebastian."

His eyes flickered to Adrian, brows furrowing. He naturally took the bag from her hands. "Scarlett's waiting in the car."

Adrian watched their retreating figures, his expression darkening.