Chapter 372

Evelyn was now four months pregnant. To the untrained eye, her condition wasn't obvious, but those who knew could see the subtle changes in her posture and energy levels.

Charlotte had taken charge of reviewing Evelyn's architectural drafts while mentoring Gabrielle and the junior designers. This freed Evelyn to concentrate on the Martin Corporation projects.

Her morning had been spent at the construction site delivering exterior designs to Daniel Carter and inspecting materials. By afternoon, she found herself heading to Martin Corporation headquarters with finalized blueprints for Nathaniel's approval.

Samuel Yates looked surprised when Evelyn arrived unannounced. "Mrs. Martin," he greeted smoothly, "Mr. Martin is in his office. Shall I announce you?"

"No need," Evelyn waved him off, striding toward the double doors with her portfolio.

She expected to find Nathaniel alone. "Mr. Martin," she began playfully as she entered, "are you too busy for—" The words died in her throat.

Cassandra Montgomery sat in Nathaniel's chair while he leaned over his desk, their heads close together in conversation. Both wore matching smiles that faltered when the door opened.

Nathaniel straightened immediately. "Evelyn." He crossed the room in three strides while Evelyn remained frozen in the doorway.

"I apologize for interrupting," she said coolly, her grip tightening on her portfolio. "I brought the finalized designs. If this isn't a good time—"

"Any time you come is a good time." Nathaniel studied her face intently, searching for any reaction.

Evelyn maintained perfect composure as he guided her to the sitting area.

Cassandra rose gracefully. "Evelyn, congratulations on advancing past the preliminary judging. Your on-site presentation was impressive."

"Thank you, though there's still room for improvement," Evelyn replied with practiced politeness.

Their gazes locked for a charged moment before Cassandra turned to Nathaniel. "I'll let you two discuss business. I could use some coffee."

"Ask Samuel to have someone show you to the lounge," Nathaniel suggested.

"Will do." Cassandra flashed Evelyn a parting smile. "Until next time."

The moment the door clicked shut, Evelyn's polite mask slipped. She turned to Nathaniel, all business. "Do you have any revisions for these designs? Otherwise, I'll leave them with Mr. Carter."

Nathaniel's eyes darkened. "Is that really why you came?"

He moved closer, his intense gaze never leaving her face.

"What other reason would there be?" Evelyn countered lightly. "I came straight from the construction site. Feel free to verify with Daniel."

"So clinical," Nathaniel murmured, stepping into her space. "No room for interpretation? Just cold facts laid bare?"

"I thought you preferred honesty," Evelyn quipped.

Nathaniel's expression shifted. Before she could react, he closed the distance between them.

His lips crashed against hers with sudden urgency, cutting off her next words. Evelyn found herself pressed into the sofa cushions with no chance of retreat.

Every movement flowed with practiced ease—as if he'd rehearsed this moment countless times in his mind.