Chapter 289
"Place this painting here."
Evelyn Roland directed the staff with focused precision as they decorated the main hall of Château Blanc, completely unaware of the man standing beside her.
"Move that screen slightly to the right..."
Her voice had grown hoarse, yet she insisted on overseeing every detail herself.
Sebastian Valdemar stood behind her, his gaze never leaving her bustling figure.
His brow furrowed slightly as he spoke in a low voice, "Take a break. I'll handle it."
"No need. I'm fine."
This international competition was crucial for Château Blanc—she couldn’t afford any mistakes.
"Still treating me like an outsider?"
He hated when she carried burdens alone, as if he could never truly enter her world.
The already pale man's expression darkened further, his slender fingers tightening unconsciously.
The air around them grew heavy.
When Evelyn turned, she caught sight of his tense demeanor.
Suppressing a sigh, she relented and handed him the event plan. "Fine, it's yours. I'll grab some water." The corners of her eyes curved gently.
Sebastian took the documents with a quiet acknowledgment, the rigid line of his jaw finally relaxing.
He watched her walk away, unspoken emotions swirling in his eyes.
By noon, the main hall had been transformed. Crystal chandeliers cast dazzling reflections, and the new anti-slip carpet felt plush underfoot.
Against his usual habits, Sebastian stayed for lunch.
The dining room was filled with enticing aromas.
The table was laden with richly spiced, aromatic dishes—all bold and fiery flavors.
Sebastian instinctively pressed a hand to his stomach.
Years of adhering to a mild diet meant he never touched such stimulating foods.
But if these were her preferences...
Just as he picked up his chopsticks, an elegant plate appeared before him.
It held several light, delicately portioned side dishes.
"Don’t even think about those." Evelyn nudged the plate closer. "They’re not for you."
The corner of Sebastian’s lips lifted involuntarily.
"Try it."
Their plates presented a stark contrast—one vibrant and bold, the other subtle and refined.
"It should be decent."
Sebastian took a bite, surprise flickering in his eyes.
"I specifically asked the chef to prepare dishes suited to your palate. Though they might not compare to your family’s private chef..."
She had, after all, poached a Michelin-starred chef at great expense. She had every reason to be confident.
"It’s delicious. Thank you."
Half the plate was empty in moments. As he reached for more, a slender hand stopped him.
"Your stomach can’t handle large portions. This is enough."
Sebastian’s brows arched, his heartbeat skipping.
She remembered even his dietary limits?
The tips of his ears warmed, but Evelyn was too occupied with her meal to notice.
After lunch, she led him to the lounge.
"Drink some tea—it’s good for digestion. This is my special floral blend."
Before the first sip, the delicate fragrance already soothed his senses.