Chapter 18

Adrian Klein turned to leave when a clear voice called from behind, "Long time no see, neighbor."

Evelyn Langley stood bathed in the sunset, waving at him with a smile brighter than the evening glow.

They strolled slowly along the tree-lined path. Evelyn deliberately avoided their previous topic, casually chatting about recent happenings instead.

"Thanks to your explanation last time, I've been solving problems much more smoothly."

Adrian shook his head. "You're just naturally bright. How's Professor Roland doing?"

Evelyn kicked a small pebble on the path. "We've talked a few times. She's recovering well and will be back teaching next week."

"That's good." A faint smile touched Adrian's lips. "Her students are always her top concern."

As dusk deepened, a wobbling bicycle suddenly swerved toward them.

Evelyn stepped on an uneven paving stone and stumbled forward.

Adrian reacted instantly, gripping her wrist and pulling her firmly against his chest.

"Careful."

His palm burned against her skin through the thin fabric. The tips of Evelyn's ears flushed scarlet.

"Thank you."

They stood close enough to catch each other's scent. Evelyn hastily retreated half a step as Adrian released her hand.

The rest of their walk passed in silence.

Back home, Evelyn leaned against her closed door, her heartbeat still unsteady.

The warmth of his touch lingered on her wrist, while a faint hint of mint teased her senses.

She absently rubbed the still-tingling skin.

......

The lab debate had left Adrian sweating.

Slipping into house shoes, he reached for his phone to order dinner.

A shopping recommendation popped up—fluffy bear slippers identical to the pair Evelyn wore at home.

Memory flashed: her pale feet peeking from those slippers, round toes like delicate pearls.

Adrian's throat moved as he recalled the slender wrist he'd held earlier, even fairer than her ankles.

......

Sunday dawned bright and clear.

Chloe Valentine stood before her mirror, adjusting the neckline of her ruffled sundress repeatedly.

"Did the sun rise in the west today?" Her roommate teased from bed. "Our sleeping beauty woke at eight to do makeup?"

Another roommate chimed in, "Obviously a date with Mr. Evans! Chloe, what surprise did he plan for your birthday?"

Securing her final earring, Chloe checked the time and grabbed her purse. "I'll tell you when I get back!"