191 Do You Like It

Alexander gave Cassandra a quick glance before lifting the lid of the box.

Inside, resting on velvet, was an antique watch of undeniable value.

Evelyn, standing nearby, saw the flicker of astonishment cross his features as he looked at it.

"Alexander," Cassandra started, a smile playing on her lips. "I've always remembered your love for rare artifacts, ever since we were children. While I was filming overseas, I kept searching for something truly special for your collection. By chance, I found this and brought it back for you. Do you like it?"

His eyebrow arched in interest. "There are believed to be only two of these watches left in the world," he stated. "I once approached a billionaire collector, Arthur Pendleton, but he flatly refused to sell. How did you acquire it?"

"The collector wouldn't happen to be Mr. Arthur Pendleton, would it?" Cassandra asked, her smile turning knowing. Seeing his nod, she explained, "It was quite fortunate. Mr. Pendleton is a great admirer of my work in a particular film. I visited him, and after some discussion, he was persuaded to let it go."

She tilted her head, her eyes intently watching Alexander. "So, Alexander, do you like it?"

"Without a doubt," he replied instantly. "It's an item I have desired for a very long time."

Cassandra let out a soft breath, placing a hand over her heart. "I'm so glad. I was terribly worried it might not meet your expectations."

Evelyn, who had stayed quiet during the entire interaction, felt a sharp sting of bitterness.

She felt completely out of place.

She realized how little she truly knew Alexander. She was unaware of his chili allergy, and she had no idea about his passion for antique timepieces.

Until this moment, she had foolishly believed they were growing closer.

Now, she saw the sheer naivety of that thought.

Throughout her conversation with Alexander, Cassandra had been subtly monitoring Evelyn's reactions.

Noting the clear dejection on Evelyn's face, Cassandra felt a wave of triumph.

She was convinced that no one understood Alexander better than she did.

Evelyn was just a temporary amusement, an insignificant interruption.

With a bit more effort in the coming days, she was sure she could make Alexander lose all interest in Evelyn.

Did Evelyn think she was a worthy rival? Not even close!

Putting on a sweet, apologetic smile, she addressed Evelyn. "I'm so sorry, I didn't know about you before my visit, so I didn't bring a gift. I'll certainly make it up to you next time."

Evelyn forced a polite smile. "That's really not necessary, but thank you. Since it's been so long since you two have caught up, I'll leave you to talk. I have some work to attend to, so I'll be going now."

Evelyn took a steadying breath, hiding her turmoil, and turned to leave, her heart sinking.

Alexander frowned, noticing Evelyn's uncharacteristic despondency.

He moved to follow her, but Cassandra suddenly stepped into his path.

She took his hand, smiling winsomely. "Evelyn is right. It has been far too long. Alexander, you're not really going to abandon me like this, are you?"

Marrying A Secret Zillionaire: Happy Ever After