Chapter 90

The roar of the propeller gradually faded. Chloe Valentine gazed through the window at the dreamlike blue. The Maldivian waters were even clearer than she'd imagined—like a massive sapphire set between sky and sea.

"We're here," Nathan Evans said tersely.

Chloe eagerly pulled out her phone, snapping photos of the view. Nathan's profile suddenly flashed across the screen, making her pulse quicken. She subtly angled the camera toward him.

"Don't," Nathan blocked the lens with his hand, exhaustion evident in his voice.

"Just one picture," Chloe wheedled. "It's our first international trip together."

Nathan closed his eyes. "I don't like photos."

Her smile froze before she quietly put the phone away.

The seaplane docked at the resort's pier, where white-uniformed staff had been waiting. Chloe inhaled the salty breeze, trying to dispel her disappointment.

"Mr. Evans, your suite is—" The receptionist's words cut off as elevator doors opened.

Ethan Winston strolled out leisurely, his floral shirt fluttering in the ocean wind. Removing his sunglasses, he flashed a knowing smile. "What a coincidence, Nathan."

Nathan's gaze turned icy. "Indeed."

"Seems we share similar tastes." Ethan's eyes lingered on Chloe for a second. "Both choosing the Maldives."

"Some people just follow trends." Nathan smirked. "Arriving a day early changes nothing."

Ethan toyed with his shades. "At least it proves I'm more thoughtful."

The tension between them thickened. Chloe nervously tugged Nathan's sleeve.

"Let's go." Nathan shook her off, striding toward the elevator.

Hurrying after him, Chloe heard Ethan's meaningful farewell: "Enjoy your stay."

The moment the doors closed, Nathan's expression darkened completely. "Go to the room alone. I have matters to handle."

"But—"

Before she could finish, he was already gone. Chloe stood frozen, clutching the keycard, her heart hollow.

Meanwhile, on the beachfront opposite the hotel...

"What's this?" Evelyn Langley examined the fox mask in her hands.

Sophia Laurent winked mysteriously. "Your ticket to tonight's masquerade. I picked this little vixen especially for you."

Evelyn fastened the mask. Her red-and-white dress fluttered in the breeze as sunlight glinted off pearl hairpins, making her skin glow like snow.

"Perfect!" Sophia clapped. "You'll be the belle of the ball tonight."

Evelyn turned before the mirror, the corners of her lips curling beneath the mask. A sudden premonition struck her—this vacation might not be as peaceful as expected.