Chapter 54

Annabelle's laughter was shrill and grating, like nails on a chalkboard. "Dr. Carter, why pretend to be so noble? Just admit you can't let go of Alexander."

"Where did you get the idea that I can't?"

Evelyn's voice was soft, but sharp as a scalpel.

She had never been one for arguments, but she wasn't a pushover either.

This was the first time she had ever shown Annabelle her edge.

Annabelle faltered for a moment before lifting her chin defiantly. "Stop pretending. I heard you were trying to buy a house. Did you manage it?"

"..."

"Couldn't afford it, could you?" Annabelle sneered. "With that salary of yours, you probably couldn't even scrape together a down payment. Where are you living now? Under a bridge?"

Evelyn met her gaze calmly. "No need to worry. I have friends."

"Oh, so you're mooching off someone." Annabelle dragged out her words mockingly. "And now you're here to cry to Alexander about it?"

"I earn my own living."

"Then why are you here?" Annabelle's voice rose sharply. "Trying to relive the past?"

"Enough!" Alexander's face darkened. "Are you done making a scene?"

Annabelle refused to back down. "Am I wrong? Someone like her wouldn't come to a viral restaurant unless she was after you!"

"You—"

"Excuse me, sir." A calm male voice interrupted.

A waiter stepped forward. "How may I assist you?"

"I'm here to pick up a friend."

"May I ask who—"

"Dr. Wilson!" Vivian waved excitedly. "Over here!"

Gregory adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses and nodded politely to the waiter.

The waiter immediately understood and gestured for Evelyn and Vivian to proceed.

Annabelle blocked their path. "Why do they get to skip the line?"

"This gentleman already waited in line earlier," the waiter replied coolly.

"What friend?"

Gregory walked over slowly.

He wore a simple white shirt, sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing well-defined forearms.

"Vivian. Dr. Carter." He gave a slight nod.

Vivian grabbed Evelyn's hand and started to lead her inside.

"Stop right there!" Annabelle snapped.

Gregory paused, his gaze steady behind his glasses. "Is there a problem?"

Annabelle looked him up and down. "And you are...?"

Gregory's lips curved slightly. "Currently, a suitor."