Chapter 177

"Look who finally decided to show up—our little workaholic."

Evelyn offered a tired smile. "This workaholic desperately needs sleep after pulling an all-nighter."

Olivia's expression softened instantly. "Then we'll keep it short. Go upstairs and rest."

"Thanks," Evelyn murmured gratefully before heading up to her room.

Meanwhile, at The Harlequin Eats, Alexander and Nathan sat across from each other, the air between them thick with unspoken tension. Alexander smirked, swirling his wine glass. "This isn't just a casual lunch, is it, Nathan?"

Nathan's lips curled slightly, his voice low and deliberate. "No. There's something I've been meaning to ask you."

He set his fork down, locking eyes with Alexander. "What exactly is going on between you and Evelyn?"

Alexander hesitated, then gave a small, knowing smile. "Well... How should I put this?"

Nathan's fingers tightened around his glass. That hesitation—it confirmed his suspicions.

After a beat, Alexander continued, "Let's just say Evelyn and I are very close friends. For now."

"For now?" Nathan repeated, the words heavy with implication.

Alexander nodded. "Exactly. Who knows what the future holds?"

The underlying message was clear.

Nathan's gaze darkened, but before he could respond, Alexander pressed further.

"Speaking of the future—when are you planning to finalize your divorce?"

Nathan's jaw tensed. "Why do you ask?"

Alexander leaned back, feigning nonchalance. "Just concerned. You two are important to me. Naturally, I care about how things unfold."

Nathan's eyes narrowed. "Is that really all?"

They stared each other down, the silence stretching until Alexander finally exhaled.

"Fine. I won't lie to you." He straightened, his expression turning serious. "Over the years, I've realized... I have feelings for Evelyn."

Nathan's grip on his glass turned white-knuckled. A surge of fury burned through him, sharp and unexpected. He had suspected it, but hearing it aloud—

Worse, a gnawing unease settled in his chest. If Alexander loved Evelyn, did she feel the same?

Alexander studied Nathan's stormy expression before continuing carefully. "I know it's wrong to want a friend's wife. But feelings aren't something we control, are they? Besides..." He paused. "We both know you never loved her. You were the one who asked for a divorce the moment Serena came back. So tell me—is it really so unforgivable if I care for her?"

The challenge hung in the air, sharp as a blade.