Chapter 159

Evelyn recognized Diana immediately and extended her hand with effortless grace. "Oh, hello there."

"Mr. Whitmore speaks so highly of you. He said you're not only stunning but also have an incredible personality."

A delicate pause.

"Now that I've met you, Ms. Carter, I must say the rumors don't do you justice," Diana remarked smoothly.

Evelyn's eyebrows lifted slightly in surprise. She turned to Harrison with a playful glint in her eyes. "I had no idea you noticed all these qualities about me, Harry!"

"You've always been extraordinary," Harrison replied, his voice warm with affection.

The corners of Evelyn's mouth curved into a radiant smile. "Shall we head back? I'm absolutely starving!"

"Of course," Harrison agreed, his mood visibly lighter.

The trio descended the staircase together. Diana moved with practiced efficiency, sliding into the driver's seat without hesitation.

"Ms. Chamberlain, take us to Lakeside Manor," Harrison instructed.

Diana's response came with polished professionalism. "Right away, Mr. Whitmore."

The luxury sedan glided through the city streets. Watching the urban landscape blur past the window, Evelyn mused aloud, "I believe we'll secure the Nexa contract this time. Both companies should be signing the agreement within days."

Harrison gave a thoughtful nod. "The project shows real potential. The initial phase may present challenges, but once we establish momentum..."

"Everything will fall into place," Evelyn finished his thought. "Though none of this would be possible without your connections smoothing the way." Her gratitude shone through her words. "Really, Harry, thank you."

Harrison's brow furrowed slightly. "No need for formalities between us."

Evelyn's grin widened. "Noted."

From the front seat, Diana observed their easy rapport with barely concealed curiosity. The extent of Harrison's involvement clearly surprised her.

"Mr. Whitmore, there's that patisserie Madam Whitmore adores coming up at the next intersection. Shall I stop?"

Harrison recognized the establishment Beatrice had mentioned before. "Yes, pull over. I'll get her favorites."

As Diana maneuvered into a parking spot, Evelyn reached for her door handle. "I'll come with—"

"No need," Harrison interrupted gently. "This won't take long."

When he insisted, Evelyn reluctantly settled back into her seat.

The moment Harrison disappeared into the bakery, Diana turned slightly in her seat. "Madam Whitmore has such refined taste in desserts. I've made this stop for her many times."

The implication was clear—Diana enjoyed a close relationship with Beatrice, privy to her personal preferences.

Evelyn found the assistant's behavior peculiar. Casually, she inquired, "Ms. Chamberlain, you've been with the Whitmores for years, haven't you? What prompted your sudden transfer to Kingsley Industries?"

"Six years, actually. The transfer was Mr. Whitmore's decision." Diana's smile didn't quite reach her eyes. "After so long with one family, certain habits become ingrained. Change can be... difficult."

"But not impossible," Evelyn countered with deliberate lightness. "If one truly desires change, the capacity exists. Wouldn't you agree?"

Diana's nod was perfectly measured. "Quite right. Though I've heard interesting things about you as well. Weren't you previously married?"

The air between them grew thick with unspoken implications.

"In my younger, more naive days, I made some poor choices," Evelyn admitted smoothly. "You seem quite interested in my past, Ms. Chamberlain."

Diana's gaze flickered toward Harrison returning with pastry boxes before answering. "Mr. Whitmore is truly one of a kind..."