Theodore froze for a second.

His eyes held a profound depth as he looked at Evelyn.

He had been searching for her across the globe for years.

Each time, he made a silent vow to himself.

Once he found her, he would make her the happiest woman in the world.

For this, he personally designed an exceptionally beautiful wedding gown.

But reality was cruel.

When Theodore finally located Evelyn, his heart soared with joy.

Yet she was guarded around him.

Worse, another man had already won her heart and taken her away.

Despite his regret and bitterness, Theodore knew he had to remain composed.

He needed patience.

He was convinced he could eventually charm Evelyn away from Alexander.

Theodore kept his thoughts to himself.

He knew better than to voice his true feelings.

"Don't worry about the measurements now," he advised instead. "Let's proceed as planned."

Evelyn frowned. "Without measurements, the dress will have problems."

"You're the designer. Solving those problems is your job. I just want a flawless result. Do well, and I'll ensure you're handsomely rewarded. A bonus on top of the original fee," Theodore stated with conviction.

Evelyn hesitated, then nodded. "Alright."

She planned to start with a standard size and adjust it later when Theodore provided the exact figures.

Theodore was paying exceptionally well.

For the money, Evelyn was willing to be a little more patient with him.

"That said, your design still has some flaws," she informed him. "I may make adjustments. I'll keep you updated on my ideas and get your feedback."

"Sounds perfect. You're the expert. I trust your judgment and skill completely," Theodore replied with a serene smile.

This gown was meant for her all along. Her input would only make it more perfect.

Just then, Theodore's phone vibrated.

He glanced at the message, and his relaxed demeanor vanished.

His eyes narrowed, a sharp, dangerous glint flashing within them.

"Evelyn, I have an urgent matter. I'll leave the design in your hands."

He stood and walked out without waiting for a reply.

Evelyn was momentarily stunned.

Before she could process his words, he was already gone.

She raised an eyebrow. She had expected him to be difficult, but he had taken the design discussion seriously before leaving abruptly.

Though slightly puzzled, Evelyn chose not to dwell on it.

Without another word, she took Theodore's design and returned to her company to begin revisions.

Meanwhile, in the executive meeting room at Aethelgard Industries, Sebastian was still catching his breath from rushing upstairs.

He gestured toward the meeting room door, speaking in a hushed tone. "The esteemed guest is inside. Stay calm when you meet him."

Aware of Sebastian's tendency to exaggerate, Alexander didn't take the warning seriously.

"Got it," he replied simply.

He had met many so-called luminaries before.

As he pushed the meeting room door open, Alexander's gaze landed on the man seated inside.

The man stood immediately.

His eyes settled on Alexander.

With a warm, friendly demeanor, he said, "So you're the founder of Aethelgard Industries. I've heard so much about you. It's a true pleasure to finally meet you in person."

Alexander's gaze flickered as he studied the man.

There was something strikingly familiar about him.

It felt like he had seen him somewhere before, but he couldn't quite place where.