Kapitel 22: TOO COINCIDENTAL

EVELYN'S POV

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing thoughts. "Clara, do you know Lucas well?" I asked, doing my best to sound casual as I leaned closer.

Clara glanced up from the bouquet of flowers she was arranging. Her hands moved with practiced precision as she adjusted the petals. "Lucas?" she repeated, as if tasting the name before answering. "Yes, I've worked with him before. He was a client of mine in Suncrest."

I straightened, my curiosity sharpening. "Really?" I said, tilting my head in mock casualness. "What kind of work did you do for him?"

She shrugged, her expression thoughtful. "Not much, honestly. He's very private. All I know is that he hired me to decorate his condo here in Mooncrest. The funny part? Every expense was prepaid, and he paid me a very generous fee. Lucas has a knack for being particular about his spaces."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued but careful not to let it show. "So, you're in Mooncrest because of Lucas?"

"Partly," Clara admitted, her eyes flicking to the floral arrangement. "He also asked me to help out with the charity event. It's been a good opportunity for networking."

My gaze shifted toward Lucas, who stood across the room talking to another sponsor. His easy smile and polished demeanor didn't betray a single ounce of whatever secrets he seemed to be hiding. I forced a smile when his eyes met mine briefly, though a knot of suspicion coiled tighter in my stomach.

"That's interesting," I said, letting my voice trail off deliberately. "He never mentioned any of this to me."

Clara's brow lifted. "Really? Well, I guess it's not something that comes up in casual conversation. Lucas has always been polite, very professional and never one to overshare."

I nodded, pretending to return my focus to the decorations, though my mind raced. Lucas's sudden involvement in the charity event, his connection to Clara, and his evasiveness; it all felt too coincidental. I wasn't sure whether to dig deeper or let it slide, but my gut told me there was more to this than met the eye.

"Did Lucas ever tell you why this charity event is so important to him?" I pressed, trying to keep my tone neutral.

Clara shook her head. "No, he didn't," she quipped, "He just said he wanted everything to be perfect and asked me to do my best."

I glanced back at Lucas, who was now walking toward us. Clara must have noticed, too, because she nudged me lightly. "Why don't you ask him yourself?" she teased, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

Before I could respond, Lucas arrived, his confident smile lighting up his face. "Ladies," he greeted smoothly, "I hope I'm not interrupting."

"Not at all," Clara replied, returning his smile. "We were just talking about some ideas for the decorations."

"Perfect," Lucas said, his gaze lingering on me. "Evelyn, would you mind sitting next to me? The meeting is about to start."

I hesitated for a moment, but I couldn't detect anything in his expression beyond calm assurance. "Sure, Lucas," I replied, my voice even.

The room filled with the hum of conversation as attendees began to take their seats. Lucas gestured for me to sit beside him at the head table, where the other sponsors and organizers were gathering.

As I settled into my chair, I felt his hand brush lightly against my arm, and I stiffened slightly, unsure of his intentions.

The meeting began as Oscar, a respected werewolf leader in Mooncrest, took his place at the podium. His commanding presence silenced the room almost immediately.

"Good morning, everyone," Oscar began, his deep voice carrying an air of authority. "Thank you all for being here today. This year's charity event represents a turning point for Mooncrest. For the first time, we are involving cities from the surrounding regions. This expansion is vital for fostering unity and cooperation across our communities."

A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd. Oscar continued, outlining the planned activities: a silent auction, live performances, and interactive workshops.

I tried to focus, but my attention wavered when I caught sight of someone across the room. My breath hitched as I recognized the familiar figure. **Albert.** He was impeccably dressed in a tailored dark blue suit, standing beside a younger woman who seemed engrossed in taking notes.

I blinked, certain my mind was playing tricks on me, but he was undeniably there. My heart began to pound, and I had to grip the edge of the table to steady myself.

"Evelyn, are you okay?" Lucas's voice broke through my thoughts. He leaned closer, his brow furrowed with concern.

"Yeah, I'm fine," I replied quickly, forcing a smile. But my mind was far from fine. What was Albert doing here? And who was that woman with him?

Oscar's voice brought me back to the present. "I'd now like to introduce this year's chief decorator, Evelyn Lane, who has been instrumental in organizing this event."

Caught off guard, I stood abruptly, feeling heat rise to my cheeks as all eyes turned toward me. "Thank you, Oscar," I said, trying to sound composed despite the nerves tightening my throat. "It's an honor to contribute to this event, and I'm excited about everything we have planned."

The room erupted into polite applause, and I quickly sat back down.

Lucas leaned in, his voice low. "Are you sure you're alright? You've been distracted."

I nodded, though I wasn't sure if I was convincing him or myself. "Yes, just a lot on my mind."

As the meeting wrapped up, Lucas turned to me, his concern evident. "I already told you that if you need to talk, I'm here," he said.

Before I could respond, his phone buzzed, and he glanced at the screen. His expression shifted to one of urgency. "I have to take this," he said. "Excuse me."

I watched him walk away, the unease in my chest growing heavier. On the other side of the room, Albert stood, still deep in conversation with the woman. He hadn't even glanced in my direction, despite my introduction.

For now, I pushed my thoughts of Albert aside and turned my attention back to the event. But as soon as this was over, I vowed to get answers; about Lucas, his motives, and what secrets he was keeping from me.

Albert could wait. For now.

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