Chapter 201

Evelyn had just stepped into the villa when her phone rang.

"Zoe, you're not home?"

"Got called for a last-minute shoot. I'm on my way back now."

Relief washed over Evelyn at Zoe's safety. She headed upstairs, letting the warm shower rinse away the day's exhaustion.

Freshly changed into pajamas, her screen lit up.

[Planning to skip out on our dinner?]

It was a message from Ethan.

She opened Sean's chat.

[I'm free anytime this week. Since we're acting, maybe switch to calling me Sean?]

[Got it.]

Before replying to Ethan, her phone vibrated with an incoming call.

"Evelyn." His deep voice rumbled through the receiver. "No backing out of your promise."

"Are you free tomorrow night?"

A brief silence.

"Send me the restaurant address."

The moment the call ended, Ethan dialed his assistant.

"Cancel the Chelsey meeting tomorrow."

"Sir, it's our last chance—"

"Book us on the same flight."

Colin's protest was cut off by the dial tone.

Evelyn set her phone down just as an engine roared outside.

A red sports car pulled up. Zoe emerged from the passenger side—followed by the driver. Evelyn's eyes narrowed. Lucas Laurier?

She hurried downstairs, meeting her best friend at the door.

"Since when are you two so close?"

Zoe tugged at her hair in frustration.

"Got a flat tire. He happened to pass by."

Suddenly, Zoe's eyes sparkled with an idea.

"Come to dinner with me?"

Evelyn chuckled and nodded.

"You're the best!" Zoe threw her arms around Evelyn in a tight hug.

"Can't...breathe..."

Back in her room, Sophia's call came right on cue.