Chapter 814

Evelyn instinctively climbed into the car. Being alone with Preston made her uneasy.

Her phone still held countless messages from him—dozens sent daily, most left unanswered. She only replied when time allowed.

Preston's affection was painfully obvious.

Rejecting him repeatedly would only damage their relationship. And after all, he had saved her life.

She owed him. But she refused to repay that debt with her heart.

At least she had enough sense not to rush into dating him. Solitude suited her just fine.

The new driver frowned as Evelyn abruptly exited and re-entered the car. Then it hit him—the butler's strict instructions. A driver must always open the door for the Young Lady. Never let her do it herself.

Failure meant negligence.

Was this a test? Panicked, he bolted out without a word.

One hand behind his back, the other yanking the door open. "Miss, please—"

Before Evelyn could react, the door swung wide. Preston's gaze locked onto hers.

She could only sigh.

Preston's eyes brightened instantly. He stepped forward. Trapped, Evelyn forced a smile and exited. The driver dutifully shielded her forehead.

She shot him a wry look. Unbelievable.

"Evelyn! You're here?" Preston's voice warmed like sunlight. "How's your leg?"

Dignified. Refined. His attention solely on her made her pulse skip.

"Much better," she said lightly. "Walking's no issue now. The show I backed is celebrating tonight. Boredom drove me out."

Preston retrieved her bag from the seat, then instinctively reached to steady her. She sidestepped just in time.

He handed over the bag, hesitating. "Let me escort you up."

A faint smile. "Really, I'm fine. My father wouldn't have let me leave otherwise."

His gentle grin didn't waver. "Then introduce me to your friends?"

Silence.

Preston showed no disappointment. As if he'd expected this. Prepared for rejection.

"Montecito's entertainment sector has potential," he said smoothly. "Breaking social barriers through media is strategic. I've recently invested in it myself. Mind if I... leverage your connections?"

The explanation was polished. Professional.

Doubtful, but it eased the tension.

A mutually beneficial offer? Perfect.

"Of course." Her tone brightened. "Though tonight's just a small gathering. Next time there's something worthwhile, I'll call you."

If money could settle her debt, she'd seize the chance.

Preston's smile deepened, genuine. Then—

A gust of wind lifted a loose strand of her hair. His fingers brushed it behind her ear. Casual. Tender.