Chapter 277

"Leaving? Only one week left?"

Felix froze mid-step, his coffee cup nearly slipping from his fingers. "You're departing so soon?"

Evelyn adjusted her training gloves with practiced ease. "My assignment here was always temporary. Once the assessment results come in next week, I'll return home."

She'd never intended to form attachments at this training facility. Complete the mission, collect the data, leave. That was the protocol.

Felix's shoulders slumped like a deflated balloon. His goddess was slipping through his fingers.

"Mr. Boucher," Evelyn's voice cut through his melancholy, "don't waste your energy on me."

Caught red-handed, Felix flushed but squared his shoulders. "It's not wasted if given freely."

Evelyn met his gaze squarely. "Then let me be blunt. I'm married. Three children. Your pursuit is pointless."

The coffee cup finally hit the floor.

"You're joking." Felix's laugh sounded strangled. "If you're rejecting me, just say so. No need for elaborate stories."

Evelyn arched one eyebrow. "The Boucher family has resources. Verify it yourself."

Felix's mouth worked soundlessly. His romantic fantasies shattered like the porcelain at his feet.

A firm pat landed on his shoulder. "Appreciate the breakfasts. I'll repay the favor someday."

Evelyn strode away without looking back.

Felix remained rooted, his mind replaying her words on loop. Married. Children. How? Who was the bastard who'd claimed her first?

"Felix." Winifred emerged from the shadows, triumph curling her lips. "Now you see her true colors? A married woman leading you on—"

"Shut up." Felix shook off her grasping hands violently.

Winifred's face contorted as he stormed away. "That Vanderbilt witch!" She kicked the broken coffee cup. "One week until assessments? I'll make sure she fails spectacularly."

——

Two days later, whispers followed Evelyn through the training halls.

"Evelyn Vanderbilt? The newbie? She's attempting assessments after one week?"

"Suicidal. Most wait three months minimum."

The standard program duration was ninety days. Only after completing this period could recruits apply for evaluation. Passing meant official membership.

Top performers might earn selection for Stoslo's elite training—a brutal proving ground that created legends like Chief Lawson or forgotten foot soldiers.

Rachel accompanied Evelyn to the testing arena. The space buzzed with candidates and spectators alike.

Today's trial: combat proficiency.

Evelyn would face veterans with over a year's training.

A lamb walking into a lion's den.

Or so they thought.

Rachel squeezed Evelyn's arm. "You sure about this?"

Evelyn rolled her shoulders, cracking her neck. "Watch and learn, roomie."

The crowd parted as Evelyn stepped into the ring. Across from her, Logan Heinrich smirked, cracking his knuckles.

"One week versus twelve months," Logan taunted. "This'll be quick."

Evelyn settled into her stance. "Don't blink. You might miss your defeat."

The bell rang.