The Fire and the Fuel

Evelyn wasn’t one to let things get under her skin. She had built walls so high that even she sometimes forgot what lay behind them. But Adrian West? He was like a slow-burning fire—tempting, unpredictable, and incredibly dangerous.

She had walked away from him at the café, but his words still echoed in her mind.

"You intrigue me."

No one had ever said that to her before. People either admired her for her business mind or underestimated her because of her looks. But intrigue? That was new.

And she didn’t like new.

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Next Morning – Campus Library

Evelyn rarely visited the library unless absolutely necessary. Her schedule was already packed between handling her company and her studies. But today, she needed a quiet place—somewhere to shake off the unsettling effect Adrian had on her.

She was deep into her book when the chair across from her scraped against the floor.

"You're everywhere, CEO."

Evelyn sighed before looking up. "Or maybe you’re just too easy to find."

Adrian smirked, his gaze flicking to the book in her hands. "Business law? Should’ve guessed."

She ignored him, turning a page. "Shouldn’t you be busy running your own company instead of disturbing me?"

"Delegation, sweetheart. Ever heard of it?" He leaned back, watching her. "Or do you do everything yourself?"

Evelyn slammed the book shut, fixing him with a glare. "Why are you here, Adrian?"

A slow smile spread across his face. "What if I said I just wanted to see you?"

She scoffed. "I’d say you’re lying."

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Fine. You got me. But you should know, there’s a business event happening tomorrow night. CEOs, investors, the whole lot. Thought you might be interested."

Evelyn raised a brow. "And you assume I wasn’t already invited?"

Adrian’s smirk widened. "Oh, I know you were. I just figured you’d need a date."

She laughed dryly. "Let me guess—you?"

"Smart girl."

Evelyn tilted her head, studying him. There was something about Adrian that made it impossible to figure out if he was genuine or just enjoying the chase.

"Not interested," she said finally.

Adrian leaned forward, his voice dropping. "Not yet, maybe."

Before she could respond, he pushed back his chair and stood up. "See you tomorrow, CEO."

And just like that, he walked away, leaving her staring after him.

Damn him.

Why did he make walking away look so damn effortless when she was struggling to breathe?

---

Author’s Note

"And that’s Chapter 4! Things are getting spicier, and Adrian? Oh, he’s just getting started. 😏

Who else thinks Evelyn won’t be able to resist for long? Or is she going to give him a run for his money? 🤔

Next chapter: The business gala, the unexpected twists, and maybe… a dance? Stay tuned!

- Spicy Noodles (Your chaotic author 🍜, serving up tension, slow burns, and CEOs who flirt like it’s a sport.)