Chapter 194

"Camille, sit here." Oliver pulled out a chair. "I put all the vegetarian dishes on this side—your favorites."

Evelyn reluctantly took her seat, her expression still hostile.

Oliver turned to Adrian. "Adrian, don't take Camille's bluntness personally."

Adrian gave a faint smile. "It's fine."

"Who asked you to apologize for me?" Camille kicked him hard under the table.

Oliver grimaced in pain but swallowed his groan.

Natalie shot him a sympathetic look.

"About the early admission..." Oliver suddenly asked. "Why did you turn it down?"

Adrian set down her fork. "I wanted to test my own abilities."

Oliver was speechless. That reason was pure audacity.

As misunderstandings cleared, the atmosphere gradually warmed.

Vincent noticed the slight curve of Adrian's lips.

Only then did he realize—Adrian wasn't failing to protect Evelyn. He'd known all along she could handle it.

Camille pushed food around her plate, nails digging into her palms.

Natalie tactfully covered her hand. "Eat first."

Oliver quickly served her more food. "Fish won't make you gain weight. I picked out all the bones."

Night deepened.

Adrian checked his watch. "Let's call it a night."

Oliver hailed a cab. "I'll take Camille home."

Natalie waved. "My husband's picking me up."

Vincent pointed down the street. "I can walk."

A black Volkswagen glided to the curb.

Adrian took the keys and glanced at Evelyn. "Get in."

Evelyn smoothly opened the passenger door.

The taillights disappeared around the corner.

The remaining group exchanged stunned looks.

Vincent rubbed his ear. "Did I hear that right?"

Natalie narrowed her eyes. "Interesting."

Camille's face turned ashen.

Oliver scratched his head. "Since when have they..."