Chapter 1: The Coffee Spill

Evelyn Blake tightened her grip on the tray of coffee cups, her fingers trembling as she weaved through the buzzing gallery crowd. The air was thick with pretentious chatter about abstract art and overpriced sculptures. For Evelyn, this event wasn't about mingling—it was about survival.

She had poured every ounce of her savings into securing a tiny exhibition space for her paintings. If tonight didn't go well, her dream of becoming a renowned artist would vanish faster than the overpriced hors d'oeuvres on the waiters' trays.

Her gaze darted toward her display. It wasn't as extravagant as the others, but each brushstroke told a story she hoped someone would notice.

Lost in her thoughts, Evelyn didn't see the man until it was too late.

"Watch out!" a deep, commanding voice snapped.

She collided with what felt like a wall. Coffee cups tumbled, and scalding liquid splattered across a tailored black suit. The man recoiled, glaring down at her with icy gray eyes that could freeze hell over.

"Oh my God! I'm so sorry!" Evelyn gasped, scrambling to grab napkins from a nearby table.

"You should be," the man said, his tone clipped. He dabbed at his suit, clearly more annoyed than injured.

Evelyn's temper flared despite her embarrassment. "Well, maybe if you weren't standing in the middle of the walkway like a statue, this wouldn't have happened!"

The man's eyes narrowed. "Do you know how much this suit costs?"

Evelyn crossed her arms. "Do you know how much coffee costs? Because I just wasted five dollars on you."

A snicker came from nearby, breaking the tension. Evelyn glanced around and realized half the room was watching their exchange. Great, she thought. First, she ruins her chances with potential buyers, and now she's the evening's entertainment.

The man's jaw tightened as he pulled out a handkerchief. "I don't have time for this."

"Good," Evelyn shot back. "Neither do I." She spun on her heel, muttering under her breath about arrogant rich men.

She didn't notice the curious look that lingered on Alexander Hayes's face as he watched her march away.