Chapter 71

Evelyn Langley carried a paper bag as she walked alongside Ethan Winston through Harvard University's campus.

Beneath the shade of sycamore trees, they strolled and chatted. Whether she brought up literature or art, Ethan always had insightful responses. His voice was warm, his words refined—like a gentle spring breeze.

As they turned past the academic building, Evelyn glimpsed a tall figure in her periphery.

Adrian Klein emerged from the lecture hall with teaching materials in his arms. He looked up and met Evelyn's bright gaze. His steps faltered slightly as his eyes swept over Ethan beside her.

"What a coincidence," Evelyn waved with a smile. "Just finished class?"

"Yes," Adrian nodded. "Heading to the lab." His gaze lingered on Ethan.

Evelyn quickly introduced them. "This is Ethan Winston." Then to Ethan, "This is Professor Adrian Klein."

The two men locked eyes. Ethan's lips curved slightly as he extended his hand. "I've heard much about you, Professor Klein."

Adrian shook his hand. "Likewise."

The air seemed to freeze. Evelyn studied their clasped hands, puzzled by how long the handshake lasted.

Finally, Adrian released first. "Excuse me." He gave Evelyn a nod before walking away.

Ethan watched his retreating figure. "You two are close?"

"Just friends," Evelyn replied casually.

That night, her phone screen lit up.

Ethan's message appeared: Thanks for being my guide today.

She typed back: No problem.

Switching off her phone, she sank into the fluffy bedding. Wrapped in the scent of sunshine, she soon drifted into dreams.

The next morning, Evelyn woke naturally to birds chirping outside. She stretched lazily.

The old neighborhood buzzed with life. Downstairs, Auntie Zhang walked her poodle and beamed at Evelyn. "You look radiant today, dear."

"Morning, Auntie," Evelyn smiled in return.

Two blocks away, steam rose from the entrance of a beloved breakfast diner. Pushing the door open, she spotted a familiar figure inside.

Tiptoeing closer, Evelyn suddenly tapped Adrian's shoulder and swiftly slid into the seat across from him.

"Why aren't you even surprised?" she grumbled.

Adrian sipped his soy milk leisurely. "You ambushed me the same way last Wednesday." He glanced at the golden retriever lounging by the door. "You're slower than Erbai."

Evelyn: "..."

"Here comes our girl!" The silver-haired proprietress greeted warmly. "The usual?"

"Yes, plus an extra side dish," Evelyn winked.

Soon, a bowl of steaming wontons arrived—translucent skins cradling pinkish minced pork, bobbing in rich bone broth. She blew on a spoonful, then noticed Adrian's unchanging order of soy milk and fried dough sticks.

"Want to try these?" She pushed two wontons toward him.

After a brief hesitation, Adrian picked one up and tasted it.

"Good?" Evelyn's eyes sparkled.

"Not bad."

She lifted her chin triumphantly. "My recommendations never miss."