The conference room was alive with murmurs of approval as Evelyn concluded the final presentation. Over the past weeks, she'd fought tooth and nail to steady the Chase Group amidst public scrutiny, board skepticism, and her personal battles. Now, her hard work was bearing fruit.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Evelyn said with a confident smile, "we've set a clear roadmap for the future. Together, we'll not only regain but surpass the trust of our stakeholders."
As she finished, a round of applause erupted, and several executives approached her with congratulatory remarks. The company's stock price had rebounded significantly, a tangible sign that confidence was being restored.
Evelyn felt a wave of pride—and relief.
Later that evening, Renee called, her tone playful. "Boss Lady, you've been working nonstop for weeks. Time for a proper celebration. Drinks are on me."
Evelyn chuckled. "I don't know... I could use a quiet night."
"Nope. You deserve a girls' night out, and I'm not taking no for an answer."
The bar Renee chose was lively, filled with the hum of laughter, clinking glasses, and upbeat music. Evelyn had traded her usual corporate look for a sleek black dress, her crimson lips the only splash of color. Renee, in her usual edgy style, looked effortlessly cool in a leather jacket and ripped jeans.
"To victories, big and small!" Renee said, raising her glass.
"To victories," Evelyn echoed, her first sip of wine loosening the tension in her shoulders.
Hours passed in a blur of laughter and stories. For the first time in weeks, Evelyn allowed herself to relax. It wasn't until she felt the room start to spin that she realized she'd probably had one glass too many.
Renee leaned closer, smirking. "Evelyn Chase, are you drunk?"
Evelyn giggled, uncharacteristically carefree. "Maybe just a little."
Renee laughed. "Well, enjoy it while it lasts. The responsible Evelyn will be back tomorrow."
Across the room, a familiar figure caught Renee's eye. "Oh, great. Guess who just walked in?"
Evelyn turned, her blurry vision landing on Adrian and Nicholas Black. They were seated at a table in the corner, their presence magnetic even in the crowded bar. Nicholas noticed them first, nudging Adrian and nodding in their direction.
Evelyn scowled. "What are they doing here?"
Renee grinned mischievously. "Maybe fate wants you to have a little fun tonight."
"Not with him," Evelyn muttered, downing another drink.
Adrian watched from his table as Evelyn laughed with Renee, her usual poised demeanor replaced with an intoxicating vulnerability. Nicholas leaned back in his chair, his smirk teasing.
"She looks... different tonight," Nicholas remarked.
Adrian's jaw tightened. "She's had too much to drink."
"And that bothers you because?"
Adrian shot his brother a warning look. Nicholas raised his hands in mock surrender. "Relax, I'm just saying you've got it bad."
Adrian ignored him, his eyes drifting back to Evelyn.
By the time Renee decided to call it a night, Evelyn was barely coherent. "I think I'll get us a cab," Renee said, helping her stand.
"No, no," Evelyn slurred, waving her off. "I'm fine."
"You're not fine," Renee muttered, looking around for help. Her gaze landed on Adrian, who was already making his way toward them.
"I'll take her home," he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Renee hesitated, then nodded. "Fine, but if anything happens to her, I'll hack into your life and ruin it."
Adrian's lips twitched in a faint smile. "Duly noted."
Evelyn's head lolled against Adrian's shoulder as he guided her to his car. She mumbled something incoherent, and he leaned closer to catch her words.
"You smell... nice," she muttered, then giggled.
Adrian chuckled despite himself. "Glad you approve."
The drive to her penthouse was quiet, save for her soft murmurs. Once they arrived, Adrian carried her inside, her arm draped over his shoulder.
"You don't have to..." she began, her words slurring.
"Yes, I do," Adrian replied, his voice gentle.
He set her down on the couch, removing her heels and draping a blanket over her. Evelyn blinked up at him, her eyes glassy but searching.
"Adrian," she whispered. "Do you think... do you think I can do this? Without my father? Without anyone?"
Her question hit him harder than he expected. The fierce, self-assured Evelyn was gone, replaced by someone raw and uncertain.
"You're not alone," he said quietly, sitting beside her. "You're stronger than you think, Evelyn. But even the strongest people need someone to lean on."
She laughed bitterly. "That's the problem. Every time I lean on someone, they leave. My father, my mother... even you, Adrian."
Adrian froze, guilt washing over him. "I haven't left."
"Not yet," she whispered, her voice breaking. "But you will. They always do."
Adrian reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I'm not going anywhere, Evelyn."
Her eyes searched his, as if trying to decide whether to believe him. Then, to his surprise, she leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder.
"Don't lie to me," she murmured, her voice heavy with exhaustion. "Just... stay. Tonight."
"I will," Adrian promised, his voice firm.
Hours later, Evelyn stirred, her head pounding as the effects of the alcohol began to wear off. She blinked, disoriented, and realized she was tucked into her couch, a blanket draped over her.
Adrian sat in the armchair across from her, his jacket draped over the back, his tie loosened. He looked up from his phone, meeting her gaze.
"You're awake," he said simply.
Memories of the night before came rushing back, and Evelyn groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Please tell me I didn't say anything embarrassing."
Adrian's lips curved into a faint smile. "You were surprisingly honest."
Evelyn groaned again, peeking at him through her fingers. "Did I yell at you?"
"No," he said, his tone teasing. "But you did call me a liar."
She winced. "Adrian, I—"
"You don't have to explain," he interrupted, his voice soft. "I get it."
Evelyn stared at him, her heart twisting. Adrian Black was a puzzle she wasn't sure she could solve, but for now, she was grateful he'd stayed.
"Thank you," she said quietly.
Adrian nodded, his gaze steady. "Get some rest, Evelyn. You've had a long night."
As he left, Evelyn watched him go, her thoughts tangled. Trusting Adrian felt like walking a tightrope—one misstep, and she'd fall. But for now, she was willing to take one cautious step forward.