Chapter 219

A moment later, the call connected.

From the other end came a deep, steady voice. "What do you need me to look into?"

Samuel, a private detective Verena had relied on for years, was one of the few people she trusted without hesitation.

They spoke with the ease of old comrades-direct, efficient, and without wasted words.

Lowering her voice, Verena said, "I need you to investigate someone. His name is Carl Aguilar. A year ago,he was discharged from my hospital in Clokron. I've had no contact with him since, but I must know his background and his whereabouts after that. I saved him during the riots, and we barely interacted, so l know little about his life. That may make things harder for you, but please gather as much as you can. Don't worry -your efforts will be compensated the same, no matter the result."

Samuel gave a low chuckle, half in jest."After all these years, I've weathered storms and handled hundreds of cases like this. If | weren't capable, I wouldn't still be standing in this business. Rest easy-it's in good hands." Verena replied, "Alright. I'Il be waiting for your good news."

As her words ended, she stepped through the revolving doors of the restaurant-and halted.Someone was standing directly in her path.

She lifted her gaze."Dr. Moss?"

Simon, dressed casually, greeted her with a twinkle in his eye..

Adjusting his glasses, he spoke warmly. "Evelyn, what a surprise. I didn't expect it to truly be you."

Verena ended the call and slipped her phone back into her coat pocket.

She wasn't sure whether Simon had overheard her earlier words. Maybe not, since she had spoken softly and finished before crossing the door.

Out of courtesy, Verena gave a polite nod and a faint smile. "Are you here for breakfast too?"

Though simple, the curve of her lips carried a brightness that outshone mere politeness.

Simon's eyes flashed briefly with a hunger he struggled to conceal. He longed to draw her close.

Clenching his jaw, he forced that desire into silence, masking it with a gentle smile. "Yes. I've heard this place serves an excellent breakfast. Would you join me?"

Excitement shimmered in his eyes, his lips curving into a hopeful arc.

Unaware of the emotion flickering behind his gaze, Verena shook her head. "I've already eaten, but enjoy your meal, Dr.Moss."

She turned to go, but Simon quickly called out, "Evelyn."

She paused, curiosity in her expression.

Stepping forward while keeping a respectful distance, Simon smiled warmly.11|wanted to ask about Mr.0Bennett's condition. He hasn't come for therapy these past days. Is there another plan, or does he not trust my abilities?" Simon already knew Isaac's vigilance against him was the real reason.

He only sought an excuse to prolong his talk with Verena.

Without missing a beat, Verena answered smoothly, "You were chosen by me personally, so your abilities are unquestionable. It's just that my husband's condition cannot be rushed. A period of rest at home may be better for his recovery."

Glancing at her phone, she added apologetically, "I'm sorry, but I have to go now."

Simon leaned forward eagerly."Let me give you a ride."

She shook her head gently."NO,,thank you..." But before she could finish, a voice cut in from the side. "Hey, my dear Verena..."

Verena turned. "Ivan, what are you doing out here?"

Ignoring her question, Ivan first sized up Simon. "And who might this be?"

Verena made the introductions. "This is Dr. Simon Moss, a new psychologist at our hospital."

Then she turned toward Simon. "This is my friend, Ivan Calderon."

Simon's gaze lingered a fraction too long on Ivan, jealousy sparking before he smoothed it away with his practiced gentleness.

He inclined his head with a polite smile. "Nice to meet you."

Ivan, outwardly charming yet cautious with strangers, responded with a cool nod and a faint smile-acknowledging the courtesy, nothing more.

Then he looked back to Verena, answering the question she'd asked earlier. "You wondered why/I came out here?"

He grinned, shaking his head in playful exasperation."YOu forgot your handbag. Lucky for you,l've got sharp eyes." He handed her the bag, which she accepted with a smile. "Right-you do have eagle eyes indeed."

Ivan puffed up at once, resting an elbow lightly on her shoulder as he boasted,f course."

Their laughter spilled out easily, filling the air with warmth and harmony.

Simon stood silently aside, watching, the sound of their laughter cutting deep into his chest.

His eyes blazed with jealousy, fists clenching so tightly his knuckles whitened. He struggled to control the surge of frustration within him.

So unfair!

Why could Ivan share her laughter? Why could Isaac have her? Verena had drawn back only from him.

That radiant smile-he believed it should be his alone.

Simon's expression darkened, his gaze toward Ivan sharpening like a blade.

In his heart, Verena belonged to him, and no one else. Yet Ivan's presence had torn that fragile illusion apart,feeding his possessiveness and his envy.

Grinding his teeth, Simon fought the urge to seize her away then and there.

He knew the moment was wrong. He could not let Verena glimpse the madness burning in him. Still, a silent vow seared his thoughts-lvan would pay.

Verena playfully pushed Ivan's hand off her shoulder. He feigned a pitiful look, but out of the corner of his eye caught a flicker on Simon's face.

Ivan hesitated. The look was gone in an instant, yet he was certain he hadn't imagined it.

After their playful exchange,Verena straightened, composed again. "Alright. I have things to do. I'll be off now."

00

She nodded to Simon in parting and turned to leave.

As Verena walked away, Simon departed in theopposite direction.

The two parted paths, while Ivan remained where he was, his gaze tracking Simon's retreating figure.

There was something strangely familiar about him.

Ivan lowered his head, brows furrowed, searching his memory, but nothing surfaced.

He was certain he had never met Simon before. And yet, that,feeling of familiarity lingered, stubborn as a shadow.