Evelyn's heart hammered in her chest, a furious rhythm against her ribs.

Her day was ruined.

A car accident.

Right before a crucial job interview.

There was no time for anger.

She unclipped her seatbelt and got out.

Her face was a mask of grim determination.

She walked to the back of her car.

A large, ugly dent deformed the bumper.

The damage was significant.

From the luxury vehicle behind her, a man emerged quickly.

His expression was full of regret.

He approached her, his tone earnest.

"I am so very sorry. It was completely my fault. I will cover all the damages."

He pulled out a checkbook with practiced ease.

He signed his name with a flourish.

"I'm Sebastian Hayes," he said, extending the check. "Write whatever amount you need for the repairs. Or for a replacement. If there are any issues, just contact me."

Evelyn's eyes lingered on her wounded car.

A wave of sadness hit her.

It was just a machine, but it had been her loyal companion.

Sebastian held out the signed check and his business card.

"May I ask your name?" he inquired politely.

"Evelyn," she replied, her voice quiet.

A spark of recognition lit in Sebastian's eyes.

He quickly removed his sunglasses.

His gaze intensified as he studied her face.

It was her.

The woman from Alexander's file.

The one who had cost him a fortune.

Incredible.

He had literally run into Alexander's new wife.

Sebastian stared, making Evelyn uncomfortable.

She took a subtle step back.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" she asked, suspicion coloring her tone.

Sebastian felt a thrill of excitement.

He couldn't help but be curious about this woman.

The one who had such an effect on his friend.

A mischievous smile played on his lips.

His intense gaze softened.

"Since your car is damaged, let me give you a lift. Where are you headed? I'll drive you."

Evelyn narrowed her eyes.

She assessed his carefree smirk.

She sensed a scheme.

Her looks often attracted unwanted attention.

She had learned to be cautious.

She had an interview to get to.

No time for games.

"That's very kind, but my car is still drivable," Evelyn stated firmly.

She turned to leave.

Sebastian was taken aback by her swift rejection.

He momentarily doubted his own charm.

He quickly moved to block her path.

"Wait, please. You forgot the check and my card. Don't forget to call me later."

He tried to hand the items to her again.

Evelyn deftly sidestepped his gesture.

Her voice was ice.

"I suggest you drop whatever idea you have. I am happily married. My husband and I are very much in love."

Her gaze was a sharp blade.

She dismissed the check with a wave of her hand.

"Your money means nothing here. Leave now, or I will call the police."

Sebastian recoiled from her sharp words.

He was so surprised he stood frozen, no longer blocking her.

Evelyn took a steadying breath.

She slid back into her car, her movements efficient.

She knew the importance of a strong front.

Any sign of weakness was an invitation for trouble.

Sebastian watched her drive away.

His shock melted into amusement.

He walked back to his car, a wide grin spreading across his face.

He started the engine and glanced at the passenger in the back seat.

His tone was playful.

"Well, Alexander, imagine that. We just met your wife on the way to the office. Did you hear what she said?"