Chapter 312

Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains as Evelyn Langley stood in the kitchen, already busy.

She deftly fried eggs and packed two bento boxes before rushing out the door.

The glass door of the lab slid open quietly under her touch. The wall clock read 7:30 AM.

The floor was silent except for the echo of her footsteps in the hallway.

The lounge door suddenly swung open.

Adrian Klein emerged holding a coffee cup, catching them both off guard. His fingers tightened around the mug as yesterday's abrupt departure flashed through his mind.

The tips of Evelyn's ears turned pink. She pretended to adjust her collar, masking the rapid heartbeat triggered by that unexpected memory.

"Morning." Adrian's voice was deeper than usual.

"Good morning, Professor." She kept her head down, hurrying toward the lab bench—forgetting even to store the bento in the breakroom fridge.

Adrian reached out. "I'll take it."

"Thanks," she mumbled without looking up, nearly fumbling the test tube in her hand.

At noon, Evelyn stepped out of Diligence Hall to find Ethan Winston leaning against a ginkgo tree.

His navy-blue shirt sleeves were casually rolled up, exuding effortless charm.

"Waiting long?"

Ethan waved a file folder. "Just enjoying the sun."

"What's Professor Hill up to now?"

He sighed. "The old man made me draft final exam papers—answer keys included. Then he insisted you double-check them."

Evelyn arched a brow. "How convenient for him."

"Exactly." Ethan shrugged. "I almost refused, but then I thought..."

"Hmm?"

"It's a perfect excuse to see you."

Evelyn nearly choked. She hastily opened the folder. "I'll review these right away."

Ethan pointed to a nearby pavilion. "Let's sit there. The sun's too harsh."

"Afraid of a tan?"

"Afraid you'll burn." He naturally took her bag. "Come on."

Evelyn focused on the documents but kept glancing up. The glare made her squint, her lashes casting delicate shadows.

Ethan shifted subtly, blocking the sunlight with his body.

Returning from the cafeteria, Adrian spotted the pair in the pavilion. Ethan was bent over a page, his frame nearly enveloping Evelyn's.