The Queen Returns—And She's Unforgiving

Evelyn genuinely liked the bouquet of tulips. Back when she was decorating her home, she'd often visit the florist to pick out fresh blooms to arrange in vases. They gave the place a lively, vibrant feeling.

It was thoughtful of this upscale resort to include such gestures for their events. Sending flowers to celebrate was a nice touch.

She carried the bouquet into the main venue and immediately spotted Sebastian and Justine across the hall. The two waved her over.

As Evelyn approached, Justine's eyes widened at the flowers in her arms. "Those are gorgeous! Who sent them?"

Evelyn glanced around and didn't see Jason. "The resort prepared them. Did you guys get any?"

Justine huffed and puffed. "What kind of service is this? They totally skipped us!"

Sebastian curiously flicked a petal. "The main venue is decorated with lilies today. Why'd they give you tulips?"

Evelyn didn't have an answer. But it didn't matter much. The bouquet was just meant to express good luck.

Sebastian didn't press further. It was a big day for Flying Seal Group, so he raised his phone and said, "Let's take a group photo for my feed."

Justine immediately scooted closer, throwing an arm around Evelyn and flashing a grin for the camera. Evelyn set the bouquet on a nearby table right before the photo was taken.

From a distance, Mason had watched the whole scene unfold. He saw Evelyn walking in with the flowers as well. He blurted in surprise, "Why is she carrying flowers? Are they from an admirer, perhaps?"

Could it have been Sebastian?

Nearby, Lucas lounged on a couch. He had caught the exact moment.

Evelyn had seemed in high spirits when she entered with the bouquet. She clearly liked the flowers.

Mason's comment didn't faze him, though. His fingers tapped rhythmically on the armrest. He glanced briefly at Evelyn before looking away, not choosing to dwell on it.

Mason, struck by a sudden thought, chuckled. "Knowing Evelyn's past moves, maybe she arranged the flowers herself to catch your eye. Maybe she wants to show you that she's still a hot commodity even without you."

He sometimes wondered if Evelyn hadn't schemed her way into Lucas' bed or called the paparazzi to force Lucas' hand in marriage, maybe they wouldn't look down on her so much.

Lucas shot him a look. "You'd make a great screenwriter."

Mason caught the jab and shut up.

"What are you guys talking about?" Tiffany asked as she slid onto the couch next to Lucas.noveldrama

Mason scratched his nose. "Nothing. We're just chatting."

He, Jason, and Tiffany weren't part of TechNova Group.

But the event was lively, and Tiffany had said Lucas would be too lonely if he came by himself, so they decided just an hour ago to tag along for fun.

Elsewhere, Sebastian posted the group photo to his social media, and it quickly racked up likes. Brian was among them.

He tilted his head toward Evelyn. "This Brian guy's pretty decent. He always gives a like whenever I post something."

Evelyn thought for a moment. "How much do you know about Brian? He's so enthusiastic and even invited you to the summit. Could he have an agenda? You should keep your guard up."

In the business world, one would meet all sorts. A little caution wouldn't hurt.

Sebastian nodded in agreement. "Good point."

Midway through, Jacob and the rest of TechNova Group joined them. With the project finally wrapped, everyone was breathing easier.