Ow, my head..." Evelyn groaned, waking up from her sleep as memories of the previous night flooded her mind. Her face filled with embarrassment and surprise. "What have you done, Evelyn?" she scolded herself.
Trying to sneak out of the house, Evelyn made a beeline for the kitchen door, but Landon caught her. "Evelyn," he called out, his voice stopping her in her tracks.
She turned to face him, adopting a neutral expression. "Have breakfast before you leave," Landon suggested.
"No, it's okay. I'll have it later," Evelyn replied, trying to brush him off.
But Landon persisted. "I made hangover soup. Have some before you go. You were pretty wasted last night," he said, his tone gentle but teasing.
Evelyn's eyes narrowed slightly, but she couldn't deny the kindness in Landon's offer. She hesitated for a moment before nodding and joining him at the table.
"Where's Mei?" Evelyn asked, trying to break the awkwardness.
"She left early," Landon replied, his eyes fixed on his breakfast.
"Yesterday... usually I'm not that..." Evelyn began, but Landon interrupted her.
"Sorry, my memory yesterday is foggy. I don't remember that much," he said, his expression sheepish.
Evelyn's face showed surprise, and for a moment, she worried that Landon might recall something she'd rather keep hidden. "Did something happen yesterday?" she asked, trying to sound nonchalant.
Evelyn shook her head. "No, nothing at all."
Evelyn breathed a silent sigh of relief, glad that Landon didn't remember everything.
"Are you sure you don't want police protection?" Landon asked, his brow furrowed with concern.
Evelyn shook her head. "No, I don't have much faith in the police department."
Landon's eyes narrowed. "You know your life is in danger. What makes you think they'll stop the threats by just failing once? Just like last time... I won't be there to protect you."
Evelyn's gaze locked onto his, her voice firm. "Then protect me, Landon. Be my bodyguard!"
Landon was taken aback. "What? Why me?"
Evelyn's expression turned intense. "I've never seen a man move like you. You have skills, and I'd say you've mastered many fighting techniques. Max was a trained assassin, and you took him down with a single punch. Others can be easily bought with money, but I need people I can trust."
Landon's eyes narrowed. "What makes you think I can't be bought?"
"Even I can fall before money," he added, with a straight voice. "So, what makes you think I won't betray you?"
Evelyn's response was calm and collected. "I'll give you 2 million dollars."
The amount hung in the air like a challenge, leaving Landon stunned.
"How did you...?" he trailed off, his eyes wide with shock.
Evelyn's expression remained serene. "I looked into you, Landon. I know about the debt under your father's name. I'll repay it if you accept my offer."
Landon's face contorted in a mix of emotions - shock, gratitude, and desperation. The weight of his debt had been crushing him, and Evelyn's offer was a lifeline he couldn't ignore.
Landon's mind raced with thoughts. She's planned this all out, studied me inside and out, knows every weakness and strength... This is Evelyn Stone, always one step ahead.
He could sense her business expertise radiating from her, an aura of confidence and control. Landon felt cornered, like he was trapped in a deal he couldn't escape.
"It seems like you've done your homework on me," Landon said, trying to sound calm. "I'll accept your offer, but under one condition: I'll only work for you for one year. I'm a pastry chef, and I actually like what I do. We'll handle your situation quickly, and then I'm out."
Evelyn's smile caught him off guard. She hadn't expected Landon to respond with such confidence, showing no signs of weakness.
"Seems like we have a deal," she said, her voice smooth as silk.
Evelyn extended her hand, and Landon took it, sealing their agreement with a firm handshake.