Chapter 222

The call ended abruptly. Evelyn Carter shoved her phone into the deepest corner of her bag.

"Dr. Wilson, I need to leave now."

Only a few scattered balls remained on the pool table.

Peter Harrison crouched low, lining up his final shot.

He straightened. "In such a hurry? Wait until we finish this game?"

"My parents will worry."

"It won't take long."

Gregory Wilson intervened smoothly. "Let's continue another day. It is getting late."

Peter reluctantly set down his cue. "Next time, then."

"Sure."

Evelyn hurried toward the exit. Peter grabbed his coat and followed. "Slow down—it's dark and slippery outside..."

When Olivia Lightfoot returned, only Gregory remained.

"Dr. Wilson, where's Dr. Carter?"

"She left."

"So soon?"

"Family curfew."

Olivia forced a laugh. "Right. By the way, your girlfriend disappeared too. I looked everywhere—the bartender said she left ages ago. Why didn't she tell you?"

"Must've been an emergency."

Gregory methodically cleared the table, his cue moving with practiced precision.

Something felt off to Olivia.

"Since everyone's gone, want to play a round?"

"Later."

"Waiting for someone?"

The bar door burst open before she finished speaking.

A cold gust swept in, making Olivia shiver.

"Damn. Why is he here?"

Gregory glanced up. Alexander Hamilton stood in the doorway, his tailored suit immaculate but his tie loosened.

"Where's Evelyn?" His breathing was uneven.

Gregory smirked. "Hiding."

"Why would she hide from me?"

"Do you really need to ask?"

"..."

Alexander fell silent.

The final eight-ball sank into the pocket with a crisp click.

"Care for a game?"

"Do I look like I'm in the mood?"

"Then I'll continue."

Gregory reset the balls, taking his time with the break shot.

The cue ball arced gracefully, leaving a red ball nestled perfectly behind the black.

A flawless snooker.

"Exquisitely hidden," he murmured in admiration.

Alexander turned to Olivia. "Where did Evelyn go?"

She rolled her eyes. "Why should I tell you?"

"What will it take?"

"Nothing. Ever."

A vein pulsed at Alexander's temple, but he restrained himself.

His gaze returned to Gregory. "Where is Evelyn?"