Chapter 293

Evelyn Laurent finally nodded in agreement to Julian Langley's reality show proposal.

Julian's peach-blossom eyes instantly sparkled with delight. He ruffled Evelyn's hair, unable to suppress his excitement. "I knew you'd say yes, Evie!"

Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, gilding his features. His face—often called "the nation's first love"—beamed so brightly it seemed to sweeten the air around them.

Evelyn held her breath.

Her third brother truly deserved his title as an Oscar-winning actor.

"It's called Taste of Home," Julian explained eagerly. "A family-bonding show filmed on Coral Island in the South Sea."

He studied his sister's expression discreetly.

Since breaking off her engagement with Ethan Sullivan, Evelyn had been withdrawn. That bastard Ethan kept posting vague social media updates that made Julian's blood boil.

This show was the perfect opportunity.

A chance to cheer Evelyn up, let their family witness their dynamic through the live broadcast, and—most importantly—make Ethan back off for good.

"Ten days of filming, just in time to return for New Year's," Julian added. "It's 28°C on the island—we'll escape the winter in the capital."

A flicker of interest crossed Evelyn's eyes.

She'd never left the capital before. The prospect of a tropical island getaway was undeniably tempting.

"Are you... sure I can do this?" she whispered.

"Absolutely," Julian declared.

On departure day, the Langley mansion descended into chaos.

When Victoria Langley stuffed a fifth down jacket into the suitcase, Julian groaned. "Mom! It's the tropics!"

"What if there's a cold snap?" Victoria shot back, then turned to cram medications into Evelyn's bag. "Evie, speak up if you feel unwell. Don't tough it out."

Richard Langley stood by silently.

Nathaniel Langley approached holding a scalpel, its blade glinting coldly. "Julian."

Two syllables made Julian's spine stiffen.

"Don't worry, bro!" He raised his hand in oath. "I'll bring Evie back in one piece!"

Alexander Langley adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, his gaze sharp behind the lenses. "Daily video check-ins."

"The crew's confiscating phones—"

"Figure it out," Alexander said with finality.

Watching her family's concern, warmth flooded Evelyn's chest. She hugged Victoria. "I'll take care of myself, Mom."

Julian seized the moment to drag their luggage toward the door. "Let's go! We'll miss our flight!"

The production team's van idled outside the gates. Evelyn took a deep breath and stepped forward—into her very first journey far from home.