Chapter 457

Evelyn's fingers curled around the warm mug of milk as she studied Harrison's profile. "Harrison, I never knew you could cook like this," she admitted, her voice laced with genuine surprise.

It amazed her how after all these years, he still managed to surprise her with hidden talents.

Harrison simply shrugged, his lips curving into that familiar half-smile. "Picked it up during my college years. Guess it finally came in useful."

What truly mattered was seeing the delight on her face as she tasted his cooking. Harrison lowered his gaze to hide his satisfaction.

"If you enjoy it, I could make this a regular thing."

Evelyn didn't even pause to consider. "Absolutely! I'd love that," she beamed.

—

After breakfast, Harrison drove Evelyn to Kingsley Industries.

She waved him off from the sidewalk, watching his car disappear around the corner before turning toward the building.

Julian materialized beside her the moment she stepped through the glass doors. "Evie!"

His sharp eyes scanned her from head to toe, making Evelyn shift uncomfortably.

"What's with the inspection?" she asked, adjusting her bag strap.

"Cut the act. Why weren't you home last night?"

A flush crept up Evelyn's neck. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

Julian crossed his arms, looking far too knowing. "That was Harrison Whitmore dropping you off, wasn't it? Spill. What's really going on between you two?"

"You're imagining things. We're just— I'm late for a meeting!" She sidestepped him, making a break for the elevators.

Julian's laughter followed her. "My baby sister's all grown up!"

"Julian!" Evelyn's cheeks burned crimson.

He held up his hands in surrender. "Alright, I'll stop teasing. He seems decent enough, but if he wants to date my sister, he'll have to pass inspection."

Like hell he'd let his baby sister go that easily!

And Dominic and Elliot would be even tougher judges. Those two would eat potential suitors for breakfast.

Julian's smirk widened as he mentally catalogued ways to test Harrison's mettle.

Unexpectedly, Evelyn turned the tables. "Julian, maybe you should focus on your own love life. Quality women don't grow on trees, you know."

Julian blinked. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Evelyn batted her lashes innocently and patted his shoulder. "Are you really that oblivious? Haven't you noticed anyone special lately?"

Julian opened his mouth, then closed it.

"Seriously! You're not getting any younger. When are you going to find me a sister-in-law?"

With that parting shot, Evelyn sauntered off, leaving Julian gaping after her.

"How did this conversation become about me?" he muttered.

Yet the idea of dating didn't sound entirely unappealing. A certain face flashed through his mind, and Julian shook his head violently.

"Damn it, why did I think of her? No, no, no! That's just wrong!" He hurried after Evelyn, muttering to himself.

—

Evelyn was still smiling when she reached her office.

Her phone buzzed the moment she sat down. The caller ID made her eyebrows shoot up.

"Grandmother! What a lovely surprise!"