Chapter 429

Adrian Klein's pupils contracted slightly, clearly not expecting to run into her here.

Evelyn Langley steadied her breathing and met his gaze directly. "Professor Klein, have I done something to offend you?"

His fingertips trembled almost imperceptibly.

She actually followed him out.

And asked so bluntly.

"...No." How could he possibly have any issue with her?

"Then why have you been avoiding me lately?"

Adrian lowered his eyelids, evading her stare.

His Adam's apple bobbed slightly.

"...Work has been busy." His voice was so quiet it was nearly inaudible.

"Did I do something wrong?" Evelyn pressed.

The man's breath hitched.

Images from those intimate dreams suddenly flooded his mind.

And the leading lady from those dreams now stood before him.

He could even catch the faint scent of shampoo in her hair.

One step forward, and he could pull her into his arms—

Adrian bit down hard on his tongue.

Was he insane?

Meeting Evelyn's clear, questioning gaze made his ears burn.

"Professor? Are you okay?"

"...Hmm?"

"You don't look well." She frowned in concern.

"?"

"Your ears are red." She pointed out.

Adrian turned his face away in a fluster. "Must be...the sunlight."

"I see." Evelyn sounded skeptical.

She took a deep breath.

"Whatever misunderstanding there was before, I'd prefer we communicate directly from now on."

Her eyes held his steadily. "I don't like guessing games."

Nor did she want to lose this important person who was both mentor and friend.

He gave a slight nod. "Alright."

"Lunch together then?"

Adrian exhaled in relief. "Alright."

......

At the other end of the cafeteria, Hannah Flores' chopsticks hovered midair.

A grain of rice fell from her gaping mouth back into the bowl.

Liam Kalmien across from her passed a napkin with distaste. "Mind your manners."

Hannah mechanically wiped her mouth. "Look over there."

Liam turned, his pupils dilating in shock.

Evelyn and Adrian sat side by side, chatting amiably.

"Don't be so dramatic." He feigned nonchalance as he shoveled rice into his mouth.

Hannah leaned in. "Isn't Professor Klein so handsome?"

"Passable."

"Is Evelyn gorgeous?"

"Hmm."

"They look perfect together, right?"

Liam rolled his eyes. "Can't even a meal shut you up?"

Hannah pouted and stabbed at her rice.

Clueless block of wood!

As lunch ended, Adrian headed to the lab.

He bid farewell at the cafeteria entrance.

After a few steps, he suddenly turned back.

Evelyn arched a questioning brow.