196 It's A Secret

Evelyn was captivated by Alexander's intense gaze.

A warmth spread through her chest.

She paused, then pouted playfully.

"I understand what you're saying, but... I can't seem to help myself. Feelings just take over sometimes."

Alexander's smile was gentle as he considered her words.

"You're right. This is my mistake. We met at the wedding, and since then, there's been no time for just us. No proper dates. No chance to simply be together, away from everything else."

He thought for a moment, then his expression brightened.

"What about this weekend? If you're free, I want to take you somewhere. Somewhere that will help you understand me better."

Evelyn's eyebrow arched with interest.

"Where exactly are you planning to take me?"

Alexander leaned in slightly, a mischievous grin on his face.

"It's a secret," he whispered softly.

He gently tapped her nose, his eyes sparkling.

The mystery only made Evelyn more curious.

A secret place to know him better?

Perhaps it was a special location from his past, a private spot he cherished.

Her mind raced with possibilities.

"The weekend is still days away. Are you deliberately trying to keep me in suspense, Alexander? Testing how excited I'll become?"

His grin widened, amusement clear in his eyes.

"Exactly. I am doing it on purpose. Rather than letting you overanalyze, I'd prefer you have a little anticipation. That way, you'll look forward to it, instead of worrying."

True to his plan, Evelyn spent the following days completely absorbed in thoughts of their weekend plans.

Her previous melancholy was forgotten.

The next morning, she followed her usual routine and headed to work.

As she entered the office, she immediately noticed the buzz of excitement among her colleagues.

A group was gathered, their attention focused on the meeting room door.

Their animated whispers and frequent glances suggested something important was happening.

"What's going on?" Evelyn asked, her voice laced with confusion as she looked toward the closed door. "Is there someone important here?"

A nearby colleague turned to her, eyes wide.

"You haven't heard, Evelyn? It's all everyone is talking about! Cassandra Sterling is here! The actual Cassandra Sterling! She's in the building!"

Evelyn blinked, surprised.

"Cassandra? She's really here?"

"Yes!" the coworker beamed, practically vibrating with excitement. "She arrived first thing this morning. She even greeted everyone who was here early. She's so genuine!"

Another colleague sighed dreamily.

"Even if I never get to design for her, just getting her autograph would make my entire year."

As the group continued their excited chatter, the meeting room door opened.

Nathanial Reed stepped out, accompanied by Cassandra Sterling. Both were smiling warmly.

"Mr. Reed, I will be personally overseeing the design project this time," Cassandra said, her tone smooth yet firm. "I have great confidence in the designers in your department. I'm here with sincere intentions. If your design helps me stand out on the red carpet, it will be a success for both of us."

Nathanial nodded eagerly, his enthusiasm palpable.

"Of course, Miss Sterling! You are absolutely correct. We will have the design draft prepared for you today. You can rely on us to deliver excellence."

Cassandra's smile softened, clearly pleased with his response.

She turned to leave, with Nathanial accompanying her.

But then her gaze landed on Evelyn, standing among the crowd.

Her steps hesitated for a brief moment.

A flicker of surprise crossed her face.

Without pause, she stared directly at Evelyn.

Her voice cut through the office murmur.

"What are you doing here, Evelyn?"