Chapter 29

Evelyn Laurent tapped her fingers lightly on the table, her icy gaze fixed on Ethan Sullivan across from her.

"None of your business."

Her voice was frosty, sharp as shards of ice.

Ethan's brow furrowed briefly before smoothing out. He should be used to this by now—Evelyn always kept her guard up, pushing everyone away.

"Cambridge isn't like Cloudhaven," he said, lifting his coffee cup. "Watch your back, or you'll end up getting played."

A flicker of mockery crossed Evelyn's eyes.

"Save your concern."

Ethan set the cup down with a crisp clink against the saucer. He adjusted his suit cuff, his tone casual. "About the old man—"

"Be my guest."

Evelyn didn't even glance up.

As Ethan turned to leave, the café door swung open. Four silver-haired men entered in single file, led by Professor Benjamin Klein, whose sharp eyes immediately locked onto Ethan.

"Ethan!"

Ethan strode forward and bowed respectfully. "Professor Klein."

He greeted each elder in turn—Professor Montgomery stroking his beard, Professor Whitmore giving a slight nod, and Professor Ashford clapping him on the shoulder.

"We brought you here to meet your junior," Professor Klein said, his crow's feet crinkling with delight.

Ethan looked surprised. "You made an exception?"

"She's worth it." Professor Klein scanned the café, his pride growing when he didn't spot the person he sought. "I spent two years chasing her down before I finally convinced her."

Ethan's gaze darkened with intrigue.

For Professor Klein to hold someone in such high regard…

"Professor."

A cool voice came from behind. Evelyn stood at the edge of light and shadow, all traces of frost gone as she bowed respectfully.

"Evelyn!" Professor Klein hurried over, taking her hand and presenting her to the group. "This is the Evelyn Laurent I've told you about."

Ethan's pupils contracted sharply.

Evelyn Laurent?

His fiancée?

"Meet Professors Montgomery, Whitmore, and Ashford," Professor Klein introduced proudly. "From now on, they'll be your seniors."

Evelyn greeted each one politely—until her eyes landed on Ethan. The corner of her lips twitched almost imperceptibly.

"Senior?"

Her voice lifted slightly, laced with amusement.

Ethan's throat moved as he suddenly found his tie too tight.