You And Sebastian Seem Close

Evelyn's sharp gaze intensified, causing Sebastian to flinch. He was a veteran of the corporate world, but this woman... she was in a league of her own.

He had first mistaken Evelyn for merely another beautiful woman. Now he realized his error. It was no wonder Alexander was so captivated by her.

Sebastian let out a low chuckle. "Evelyn, you are truly unique. If you weren't already married, I might have been tempted to try my chances..."

He didn't get to finish. Alexander's entire posture radiated a dangerous chill.

"Sebastian," Alexander's voice was a low, threatening growl. "Are you looking for a lesson in pain?"

Sebastian's playful demeanor evaporated instantly. "Whoa, easy there! It was just a joke!" he said, raising his hands in a placating gesture.

He quickly retreated toward the orphanage gates. "Oh! I just remembered an urgent matter. I have to go! I'll see you later!"

"Don't let the door hit you on the way out," Alexander said flatly, his expression unmoved.

Sebastian made an exaggerated face. "See? This is what happens when you get married. You discard your friends without a second thought."

With that, he turned and practically sprinted away.

Evelyn couldn't help but laugh. Sebastian had fled as if Alexander were a predator about to give chase.

"You and Sebastian seem very close," Evelyn observed. "And he's genuinely afraid of you! He doesn't behave like a CEO at all."

She added playfully, "Anyone seeing that would think you were the one in charge."

She had spoken lightly, completely unaware of how near she was to the truth.

Alexander stilled for a moment, then asked calmly, "What if I were?"

Evelyn's smile faded. "Then I might never speak to you again," she stated plainly.

A jolt of pure panic shot through Alexander. "Why?" he asked, his voice urgent.

If he were Sebastian's superior, it would mean his power and influence far exceeded that of a CEO. Most people would be overjoyed to discover that, wouldn't they?

Evelyn shrugged, continuing with the hypothetical scenario.

"Because I despise lies and secrets. I've had my fill of deception in this life..." She let out a soft sigh. "I would prefer you to have nothing at all than to build our relationship on a foundation of falsehood."

Evelyn offered him a gentle smile. "You're not worried I'd think less of you if you weren't wealthy, are you? Don't be. We can build our future together, step by step."

Evelyn noticed the shift in Alexander's expression. She frowned and moved closer, her voice laced with concern. "Alexander? Are you okay? You've gone pale."

Alexander blinked, as if pulling himself from a deep thought. A complex mix of emotions—sadness, and perhaps a flicker of guilt—passed over his features before he schooled them into neutrality.

"It's nothing," Alexander dismissed, forcing a small smile. "Okay. We'll work hard together."

He understood the unspoken meaning behind her words.

The betrayal from her ex-boyfriend had cut deep. She could not, and would not, endure that kind of hurt again.

Evelyn studied his face intently, searching for any sign of discomfort he might be hiding.

"Alexander," she said, her tone light but carrying a distinct warning. "You're not keeping any secrets from me, are you? I mean it—if you ever lie to me, I will seriously consider divorce."