Chapter 147

Thaddeus's mind was a tempest, his brooding expression barely concealing the storm within.

Evadne, however, was far less complicated. She was simply annoyed.

What rotten luck!

Running into this insufferable man in such a picturesque setting was like finding a diamond in a trash heap—completely ruining the aesthetic. Next time, she'd consult her horoscope before stepping out.

As for Acacia, the woman clinging to Thaddeus's arm, one glance at her made Evadne's eyes ache.

Just then, Avery leaned in, his breath warm against her ear. "Relax," he murmured, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I've got your back."

Evadne blinked. What was he playing at?

"Ms. Evadne, what a coincidence," Acacia cooed, her usual sharpness replaced with saccharine sweetness. "Is this gentleman your new beau? You two make such a striking pair."

Evadne's expression remained impassive. She had zero interest in entertaining this act.

Avery, however, answered with a smirk. "Flattering, but not quite accurate—yet."

Evadne stiffened.

Thaddeus's fist clenched, his face darkening.

Not yet?

Did that mean he was planning to become Evadne's boyfriend? Was this a taunt? A challenge? Or were they already involved in a way he couldn't stomach?

Acacia noticed Thaddeus's tension, his muscles rigid beneath her grip. It was clear—he still hadn't moved on.

But Evadne had a new suitor now. That eased Acacia's worries.

Someone had to let go of their failed marriage.

Evadne was clearly a magnet for wealthy men. Who was this new one?

He carried himself with effortless elegance, his looks undeniably striking.

"Mr. Thaddeus, here to admire the roses with your fiancée?" Avery's tone was light, almost mocking. "You might want to hurry. Rose Manor closes soon."

"I don't indulge in such trivialities," Thaddeus shot back, deliberately ignoring Evadne. "Gordon, contact the owner of Rose Manor. I want to discuss a deal."

Gordon scrambled for his phone.

Seconds later, a ringtone pierced the air—close. Too close.

"Odd," Gordon muttered, scanning the area. "Sounds like it's right here."

The ringing grew louder.

"Mr. Chambers."

Thaddeus froze as a man approached Avery, phone in hand.

"Your call, sir."

The secretary handed the phone over with a pointed look at Thaddeus.

Avery glanced at the screen, then ended the call with a flick of his thumb.

Gordon's line went dead.

He gaped, stunned.

Thaddeus paled.

"The owner you're looking for is me," Avery said smoothly. "But I'm afraid I've already chosen a partner. Your trip was wasted."

He turned to Evadne. "Ms. Evadne, I accept your proposal."

Her eyes widened as he extended his hand.

"Looking forward to working together."

A glance at Thaddeus's thunderous expression sent a thrill through her.

Winning felt good—even if it was almost too easy.

She smirked, dimples flashing, and shook Avery's hand. "To a successful partnership, Mr. Chambers."

The Abernathy Group staff watched in disbelief. Gordon looked ready to faint.

Acacia tried to soothe Thaddeus. "It's just a garden, Thad. We'll find another."

He jerked his arm away, sending her stumbling back.

"Shall we go, Mr. Chambers?" Evadne didn't spare them another glance.

"Of course. Dinner reservations await."

Their shared laughter felt like a knife twisting in Thaddeus's gut.

He strode forward, blocking Avery's path.

"A word, Mr. Chambers." His voice was steel.

"If it's about Rose Manor, we're done here."

"What if it's about something else?"

Thaddeus's gaze flicked to Evadne.

A beat later, Avery followed him to a secluded pavilion.

The air between them was glacial.

"Make it quick. I have plans with Ms. Evadne."

"A date? I thought this was business."

Thaddeus's jaw tightened. "Three years of marriage means I know her better than you ever will."

Avery scoffed. "Three years of neglect doesn't make you an expert on her."

Thaddeus's eyes flashed. "Been digging into my past?"

"Everything I do is for Evadne. You're irrelevant." Avery adjusted his glasses. "I never intended to work with Abernathy. She's the one I want."

Each mention of her name was a deliberate jab.

Thaddeus's voice dropped. "You think your polished act fools me? I know exactly who you are."

Avery didn't flinch.

"Evadne isn't some conquest. She deserves better than your games."

"Funny," Avery mused. "If you cared so much, why did you divorce her?"

The words struck like a blow.

"I may have flaws," Avery continued, "but my feelings for her are real. You married her and still chased others. Who are you to judge me?"

Thaddeus had no retort.

Avery stood. "Whether you regret it or not, she's no longer yours."

He paused at the exit.

"My pursuit of her was years in the making. Your three years mean nothing."

Alone in the pavilion, Thaddeus trembled, Avery's words echoing in his skull.