Chapter 320

Evelyn and Gregory carefully examined more than a dozen blueprints, relying solely on their professional instincts. Without glancing at the names, they selected the top three designs and immediately forwarded them to Seraphina in front of all the participating employees.

In the end, Gabrielle, Liam Carter, and Maxwell Dawson were chosen.

Apart from Gabrielle, the other two were men—both exceptionally talented and innovative in their field.

The selection was fair, and no one raised objections.

Naturally, they became Evelyn’s assistants for the upcoming architectural competition.

Evelyn said, "You’ve all worked hard. Take two days to rest, and then we’ll begin preparations." Gabrielle, Liam, and Maxwell exchanged glances and nodded in agreement.

She continued, her tone firm, "From this moment on, every detail of our entry must remain confidential. Any discarded drafts or documents must be destroyed immediately. If there’s even a hint of plagiarism, we risk disqualification. Do you understand the gravity of this?"

The three of them straightened, their expressions serious. This wasn’t just a competition—it was a matter of integrity.

Once they confirmed their understanding, Evelyn dismissed them.

Gregory leaned in, lowering his voice. "Evelyn, don’t you think you’re being overly cautious? We’ve known these colleagues for years. Nothing will go wrong."

"Design isn’t something we can gamble with," Evelyn replied.

Gregory sighed. "Fine. Do what you think is best."

Evelyn had already made up her mind. She would draft a confidentiality agreement for Gabrielle, Liam, and Maxwell to sign before the competition officially began. It wasn’t about distrust—just precaution.

She walked to her desk and sat down. Gregory noticed the tension in her posture.

"Evelyn," he began carefully, "I haven’t seen Nathaniel dropping you off at work these past few days. Did something happen between you two?"

Evelyn paused, then met his gaze. "No."

Gregory narrowed his eyes slightly. He could sense the distance between them, though he wasn’t sure when it had started.

"Evelyn," he pressed, "are you unhappy with me?"

She frowned. "Gregory, why would you think that?"

"You’ve been distant lately. Outside of work, it’s like we barely interact. It feels deliberate—like you’re pushing me away." His gaze was intense, almost suffocating.

Evelyn looked away, forcing a smile. "Gregory, you’re imagining things. I’m not avoiding you. I just think it’s better to keep my distance from any man right now. I’m married—and pregnant."

"Evelyn," Gregory said, his voice rising, "do you really plan to stay with someone who doesn’t love you? Just because of the baby? Is he forcing you not to divorce? If he is, you can file for it. You can still find happiness after a divorce—"

Before Evelyn could respond, a deep voice cut in.

"And what exactly is her happiness? Being with you?"