Chapter 204

Ethan Sullivan's slender fingers tapped lightly on the desk.

He gazed at the darkening sky outside the window, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips.

For Evelyn Laurent's birthday gift, he already had the perfect idea.

Eighteen.

That special age.

The entire Lowell family was quietly preparing for the celebration.

He knew she disliked extravagance.

So he would arrange an intimate gathering.

Only inviting those she truly wanted to see.

A shadow flickered in Ethan's eyes.

No matter what, he would be there.

"Growl—"

A soft sound broke the silence.

Ethan turned, his gaze settling on Evelyn. "Hungry?"

Without waiting for her reply, he stood. "Let's go eat."

Evelyn nodded and followed him.

Night deepened.

She studied Ethan's tall, straight-backed figure, lost in thought.

Three hours of intense training.

Yet he hadn't even broken a sweat.

His physical endurance surprised her.

But last time...

Evelyn frowned slightly.

After that obstacle run, he'd been panting heavily.

Now that she thought about it, something felt off.

She mentally noted: Ethan Sullivan—unstable stamina.

Still...

Being with him was comfortable.

Like spending time with her brothers.

Ethan remained oblivious to her thoughts.

"What would you like?" he asked softly.

When she hesitated, he decided for her. "Let's get barbecue."

It was one of the Lowell Group's restaurants.

Victoria Langley's favorite.

Evelyn had been there a few times.

But this was her first visit alone with Ethan.

In the private room, he handed her the menu.

His eyes never left her face.

Evelyn looked up after ordering, meeting his deep gaze.

"Did you want to add something?" She pushed the menu toward him. "Why keep staring at me?"

Ethan hesitated.

Finally, he silently added two more dishes.

"I'll grab some sides."

As Evelyn stood, her stomach growled again.

Post-workout hunger was relentless.

The aroma of grilled meat made her quicken her steps.

Ethan watched her leave, warmth softening his expression.

Evelyn browsed the buffet area with a tray.

She paused suddenly.

Picking up a small cake, she took a bite.

After a moment's thought, she grabbed another.

Turning back, she couldn't suppress a small smile.