Chapter 13

Chapter 13 Gloria was already waiting for me. She wore a goose–yellow one–piece sport dress, paired with voluminous way hair that exuded a captivating charm, radiating youthful beauty and allure.

Gloria eyed me critically. “Seriously? You should’ve covered your neck too.”

I’m here to get a job, not get laid I thought my outfit was fine a sky–blue athletic set, a sleek high ponytail, natural makeup–clean, and decent.

“Honey, men are visual creatures.*

“If Evan just wanted a pretty face, the position wouldn’t still be open.”

“Beauty and competence aren’t mutually exclusive. Gloria playfully nudged me. Luckily, I brought an extra outfit. We’re about the same size, so you can wear this one.” Without waiting for my response, she dragged me into the changing room, forcing me to change.

I couldn’t say no. She was doing this for me.

According to Gloria, the outfit instantly transformed me into a seductive bombshell. The white sleeveless crop top and sizzling black pleated mini skirt hugged every curve of my chest, waist, and hips, while my perfectly proportioned legs looked positively hypnotic–captivating enough to utterly bewitch any man’s gaze.

“Oh my god.” Gloria dramatically covered her mouth. Olivia, you’re stunning! Julian is a fool to let you go. How is Rita even comparable?” I conveniently ignored the last part. Looking in the mirror, this outfit... Evan might think I was trying to seduce him.

“Gloria, I think...”

“Shh.” Gloria silenced me, answering a call. “Hello, Mr. Keller. You and Mr. Jones are already there? We’ll be right over.” -I couldn’t suggest changing back. We headed to meet them. On the way, I inquired, “Gloria, have you ever met Evan?”

“Actually, yes. When I was six, my parents took me to the Jones family for New Year’s. Evan was a little boy then–fair skin, chubby and adorable. But we stopped visiting them since my family’s downfall. I heard he went abroad at around ten.”

“I see...” Fair skin, chubby... The image of a plump, steaming bun filled my mind.

The golf cart turned a corner, revealing a breathtaking vista. In the distance, a forest and lake; nearby, two men in athletic wear were chatting. I focused on one of them, my pupils widening. The one in a navy blue shirt and camel pants was Mark Keller.

Beside him stood a man half a head taller, dressed in pristine white athletic wear. His stature was strikingly elegant–broad shoulders tapered into a narrow waist, his posture as graceful as a crane. When he turned his profile, the interplay of light sculpted his features into a breathtakingly perfect silhouette, as if chiseled by divine artistry... My vision blurred. I recognized Mark; the man with him was...

“Evan!” Gloria whispered excitedly. “Gosh, he’s completely different from when he was little. He’s so tall and handsome now! I’m completely smitten!”

“Crap!”

“What, you’re head–over–heels for Evan, too?”

I wondered why this world was so small.

The golf cart stopped. The two men noticed us. Mark waved, his eyes landing on me, full of admiration. Evan’s surprise was fleeting, quickly replaced by indifference.

Gloria led me over.

Might as well make the most of it. Even though my hopes were slim, I wanted to try.

< Chapter 13 “Mr. Keller, Mr. Jones.” Gloria greeted them enthusiastically, introducing me.“This is my best friend, Olivia Frost. She’s a big fan of Mr. Jones.”

Menu My heart pounded, but I maintained a smile. Mark teased, “I see. No wonder you look so unfamiliar. Turns out you’re here for Evan. Bold move.”

I pretended not to understand and greeted them.“It’s an honor to meet you for the first time.”

I immediately realized my mistake. My eyes trembled slightly... This wasn’t the first time I had met Evan!

“For the first time?” His gaze fixed on my face.

Maintaining a respectful composure while internally panicking, I pretended not to hear that, my smile widening.“It’s a good day.” I looked at him, a mixture of nervousness and supplication. Don’t embarrass me, okay...

He seemed to understand my plea, offering a slight smile. “Ms. Frost seems quite pleased.” His deep voice held a hint of amusement, each word laced with a subtle indulgence. His smile shocked Mark and Gloria. What did that mean?

Gloria gave me a look: See? The outfit worked.

I sighed inwardly. That wasn’t a compliment; it was sarcasm.

We started playing. Evan was an excellent player, as was Mark; Gloria and I were mostly spectators. During a break, Gloria steered Mark to the pro shop, giving me a chance to be alone with Evan.

Evan sat down. I quickly offered him water. He stared at my hand for a few seconds, took the water. Instead of drink it, he placed it back on the table. A heavy sigh escaped me. No chance?

“Ms. Frost, don’t tell me you went through all this trouble to get to know me just to ask for my measurements again.” He wiped his sweat, his tone nonchalant.

He was being subtly sarcastic again. I pursed my lips, then said, “I’m really sorry. The reason I asked your driver about that last time... It’s because I accidentally stained your suit. I wanted to buy a new set to replace it. And I’m here because I heard you were looking for a secretary.”

He put down the towel, stating plainly, “You’re not suitable.” He rose and walked toward the forest.

Rejected, I didn’t want to give up.

As Olivia and Evan walked toward the forest, Julian and his client passed by in a golf cart, Rita with them.

Julian’s eyes fell on Olivia’s slender waist; his brow furrowed.

( Chapter 14