Chapter 70

Dominic Kingsley arched an eyebrow.

"At any rate, I was the one who overstepped first." His voice carried a hint of amusement. "Ms. Sinclair, if you're interested, I can take you to meet our core research team. It's not an opportunity many get."

Evelyn didn't hesitate.

Understanding Kingsley Tech's latest advancements would give her an edge in the AI market. Knowledge was power, and she intended to wield it.

As they stepped out, Dominic turned to Bennett. "Mr. Bennett, I'm afraid access is restricted. Company secrets, you understand. But I'll personally ensure Ms. Sinclair returns safely."

Bennett hesitated, glancing at Evelyn.

She gave him a reassuring nod. "Go ahead. I'll be fine."

"Yes, ma'am."

Dominic's car awaited them. The blacked-out windows and drawn curtains ensured no prying eyes could follow their route. Evelyn noted the precautions with interest.

Dominic Kingsley doesn't take chances.

That only made her more curious.

"Mr. Bennett used to be Alexander Sterling's right-hand man," Dominic mused, adjusting his gold-rimmed glasses. "Now he serves you. It seems Mr. Sterling holds you in high regard."

A knowing smile played on his lips.

"No wonder you dismissed the idea of remarriage so decisively earlier. With such powerful backing, why repeat past mistakes?"

Evelyn's response was cool. "Mr. Sterling recognizes talent. That's all."

Dominic chuckled. Clearly, Nathan Blackwood stood no chance with her.

Twenty minutes later, the car descended into an underground garage. Harsh fluorescent lights illuminated the space, revealing sleek Morandi-gray walls designed to blend into obscurity.

Discreet. Efficient.

Just like Dominic himself.

The elevator required three fingerprint scans before granting access. Dominic gestured politely.

"After you, Ms. Sinclair."

Evelyn stepped inside, noting the single button for the 17th floor. No other options.

"Should I be blindfolded?" she joked.

Dominic laughed. "No need. Our secrets aren't so easily stolen."

Relief flickered through her, anticipation quickening her pulse.

The elevator doors opened to a corridor lined with silver-gray glass. Translucent yet impenetrable. A labyrinth of secrets.

Dominic led her to an unmarked room, pressing his palm against the glass. Data streams flickered to life—curved lines of code dancing across the surface.

Iris recognition followed.

The wall parted.

Another corridor stretched ahead, identical to the last. Without a guide, one could wander forever.

Finally, Dominic pushed open a door.

"Here we are."

Inside, white-coated researchers worked in focused silence. One spun a gyroscope-like device; another murmured commands to a computer.

"Everyone else has left for the day," Dominic said, amused. "The ones here? All married to their work."

A curly-haired man looked up, grinning.

"Hey now, don't insult us single folks. We have feelings too!" His eyes landed on Evelyn. "Oh—we have company?"

Evelyn smiled, about to greet him—

When something brushed against her shoe.

She looked down.

Leo, the AI tiger, gazed up at her, stripes shifting as it grinned.

"Hello, pretty lady! We meet again." Its voice was playful. "I really like you."