Chapter 441

Evelyn nodded slightly. "Of course."

"Thank you."

The moment the door opened, a wave of cool air rushed out, starkly contrasting the stifling heat of his own apartment.

Adrian Klein deftly slipped into the house slippers—this wasn't his first visit.

Evelyn turned and headed to the kitchen, returning with a glass of water.

The sun slanted westward outside the window. Though she assumed he'd already eaten, she asked considerately, "Have you had lunch, Professor?"

"Yes."

"Then... would you like some fruit? It's freshly cut."

She disappeared into the kitchen again and emerged with a plate of sliced fruit.

Adrian accepted it with thanks.

Evelyn settled onto the couch, spearing a piece of honeydew with a toothpick. "When did the repairman say the AC would be fixed?"

"They need to replace a part. Probably another two or three hours."

"That's not too long. You can rest here for now. This heat is unbearable without AC..."

"Thank you. Don't trouble yourself on my account."

"Alright." Evelyn stood.

Just before entering her bedroom, she paused and glanced back. "Professor, the bathroom's down that hallway if you'd like to shower."

She pointed toward the end of the corridor.

Adrian's shirt clung to his back, damp with sweat, the outline of his muscles faintly visible. In the chilled air, the wet fabric would soon turn icy against his skin.

Cough—

Adrian choked abruptly, the piece of honeydew caught in his throat. He waved a hand hastily. "No need. I'll shower at home and come back."

"Mm." Evelyn nodded. "If you start feeling chilled, let me know. I have cold medicine."

"Alright."

Adrian took his leave.

Evelyn returned to her bedroom to continue grading papers.

Half an hour later, she closed her laptop and stretched.

With a guest visiting on a weekend, it was only proper to invite him for dinner. She opened the fridge, mentally planning the menu as she surveyed the ingredients.

The living room remained silent—Adrian clearly hadn't returned yet.

Evelyn hung her cardigan on the coat rack.

The bedroom AC had been too cold earlier, so she'd thrown on the light sweater. Now she felt stuffy again. She tugged off her T-shirt, leaving only her tank top, and reached for the loose cotton tee hanging nearby.

Adrian isn't back yet anyway...

Just as she pulled the shirt over her head, the bathroom door swung open.

Adrian stepped out, damp hair dripping, a bundle of fresh clothes in his arms.

Their eyes locked.

The air between them froze.