Chapter 55

“Oh, really?” Sebastian gave Mason a pointed look. “It seems like you have a lot of respect for the person who invented the UN-17 combat drone.”

Mason didn’t hesitate. “Who wouldn’t respect a genius like you, Mr. Hill?” He said that partly out of genuine admiration, but also as a way to secure a potential collaboration. Flying Seal Group was the biggest rising star in the industry, and Mason’s father, Phillip, had made it clear that building a good relationship with Sebastian was a guaranteed win.

Evelyn, as always, remained unfazed. People had always been naturally drawn to power and profit. She reached for a napkin, only to accidentally brush against a firm, warm hand. The touch was brief, but his fingers instinctively curled around hers for a second before pulling away. The sudden contact sent a jolt through Evelyn, making her look up instinctively.

Lucas was already watching her. Unlike her startled reaction, he remained completely composed. His gaze met her slightly trembling eyes, yet he showed no sign of unease. As if completely aware of Evelyn’s discomfort, Lucas withdrew his hand without hesitation. Evelyn pulled her hand back, but the lingering sensation remained—warm, tingling, and frustratingly persistent. Lucas had spent the entire evening keeping his distance, carefully avoiding any physical contact with her. So how did this small moment happen so conveniently? Would he actually think she had done it on purpose?

Evelyn shook off the thought, but the irritation still lingered. Even so, no one else noticed. Then, casually, Tiffany spoke up. “I’ve always admired your work, Mr. Hill. The UN-17 combat drone represents everything I’ve pursued in my field. I actually applied to join your research team. I was hoping to learn from you.”

Sebastian smiled, poised yet confident. “But I believe I’ll have the chance to work with you in the future.” Her skills and ambition spoke for her confidence. One day, she would lead a team that developed something just as groundbreaking as the UN-17 combat drone.

Sebastian gave a soft chuckle and said, “Oh? Well then, Ms. Moore—best of luck to you.”

What none of them realized, though, was that what so many people spent their lives chasing was just the beginning for Evelyn.

Mason chimed in, never missing a chance to play the perfect supporter. “No doubt about it. You’re already incredible, Tiffany. There’s no way you won’t make a name for yourself in the research field. Jason, Lucas, and I all believe in you.”

Lucas didn’t seem to be paying much attention, but he casually handed Tiffany a drink and responded with a low hum. Tiffany glanced at him, her lips curving into a soft smile.

Across the table, Fiona wasn’t following most of the business talk. Aerospace and engineering weren’t exactly her strong suits. But what she did know was that Evelyn was brilliant. And she wasn’t about to let anyone look down on her. She was just about to speak up when, out of nowhere, Evelyn placed a dainty slice of cake on her plate.

Fiona blinked up at her. Evelyn’s expression was serene. “This one’s good. Try it.”

Whatever Fiona was about to say completely slipped her mind. She immediately scooted closer, practically melting into Evelyn’s side. She loved being close to her. She was all warmth and softness—impossible not to love. She wished she was family with Evelyn.

Meanwhile, Sophia had been watching the entire exchange—and she didn’t like it at all. Evelyn was always the one making sure Sophia was taken care of. That had been their dynamic for years. So why the hell was Evelyn dating Mason instead of…?

Sophia frowned, her irritation bubbling up, but Evelyn didn’t even glance her way. She felt completely ignored. Then, Mason turned his attention back to Evelyn, on cue. His tone was casual, but the meaning behind his words was anything but.

“Hey, Ms. Reed. We’re out of meat. Throw some on the grill, will you? Oh, and pass the bottle to whoever’s at it.”

For a split second, the table fell silent. Evelyn’s gaze tightened.

Jason, catching on immediately, barely held back an eye roll. “That’s not something Ms. Reed should be doing.”

It was blatantly obvious what Mason was trying to pull. Sebastian and Evelyn saw through it instantly. Moments ago, Mason had been hyping Tiffany up—brilliant, accomplished, bound for success—only to turn around and treat Evelyn like some waitress. It wasn’t just about grilling food; it was nothing more than a reminder that she and Tiffany weren’t in the same league.