Chapter 479

Evelyn Carter experienced an unsettling wave of familiarity. She furrowed her brows, struggling to place where she'd encountered this exact view before.

Harrison Whitmore's lips curved into a knowing smile at her confusion.

He'd purchased this penthouse three years prior - right after learning of Evelyn's impending marriage to Nathan Sterling and their relocation to Pamore.

The extensive renovations had consumed two full years. After completion, the space had remained untouched for months.

Harrison only began occupying the residence after transferring his corporate headquarters to Pamore and establishing Horizon Technologies.

"Perhaps luxury penthouses share similar architectural designs," Harrison offered vaguely.

Evelyn nodded, dismissing the nagging sensation. "That must be it."

They settled onto the terrace seating. Harrison presented her with a crystal flute filled with ruby-hued wine. "Try this vintage."

Evelyn sipped thoughtfully, her gaze drifting skyward. "The night sky looks breathtaking tonight. I can actually distinguish constellations - when was the last time I stargazed?"

A wistful expression crossed her features. "I remember during university days, you, Victor Langley, Julian Hartwell, and I would spread blankets on the quad and identify stars. Decades later, those memories feel like yesterday."

Harrison followed her upward gaze. After a contemplative pause, he remarked, "Over a decade has passed, hasn't it?"

"Fourteen years," Evelyn confirmed. "I was a junior then, while you three were graduating seniors."

She chuckled suddenly. "And I distinctly recall how hordes of female students pursued you. They flooded your locker with love letters and gifts, yet you discarded them unread."

Harrison shrugged. "Why entertain false hopes? Direct rejection proved kinder in the long run."

Evelyn's laughter sparkled like the stars above. "Always brutally honest, Harrison. But we were so young then - what did any of us truly understand about love?"

She drained her glass in one smooth motion, savoring the rich berry notes lingering on her palate. "Another pour, please."

"Moderation, Evelyn. This vintage carries unexpected potency."

She waved off his concern. "It's merely wine. What harm could come from indulging tonight?"

The deceptive sweetness masked its strength. By her second bottle, the world developed a pleasant tilt.

"Harrison... why are there two of you?" Evelyn giggled, rising unsteadily.

He caught her swaying form. "You're intoxicated. Let's get you to bed."

Evelyn clung to his forearm. "Nonsense! I want another bottle!"

"You're thoroughly drunk."

"Am not!"

His voice dropped to a velvet murmur. "Behave, darling." The command worked like magic - Evelyn stilled instantly, blinking up at him with glassy admiration.

"Come, we'll rest in the guest suite."

This time, she complied without protest.

In the moonlit bedroom, Harrison watched Evelyn's sleeping form. As he adjusted the duvet, she murmured incoherently before burrowing deeper into the covers.

Harrison remained seated bedside, lost in bittersweet recollections as moonlight traced Evelyn's peaceful features.