The Queen Returns—And She’s Unforgiving novel Chapter 283

Evelyn found the entire exchange baffling. Without another word, she turned to leave.

But Lucas seemed to sense her intent. Unbothered by her distant and chilly demeanor, he casually slipped off the coat draped over his arm and placed it over her shoulders. "Keep it on. The temperature's probably going to drop later."

Evelyn hadn't expected such a thoughtful gesture. She didn't even have time to refuse.

By the time she reacted, the coat, still warm from his body, was already resting on her.

Along with the familiar hint of his usual cologne, she also caught a faint, lingering trace of a woman's perfume. It was subtle but undeniably there. Someone else had worn or touched this coat before he gave it to her.

Her expression instantly turned colder. Without a second thought, she grabbed the coat and tossed it back into the crook of his arm. "Thanks, but I don't need it."

Her movement was swift and direct. The rejection was unmistakable, her distance crystal clear.

Lucas didn't flinch. He didn't seem surprised at all as if he had already predicted exactly how she'd react. Calmly, he draped the coat over his arm again. Unfazed, he said casually, "I heard Flying Seal Group is submitting a bid for the military contract?"

Evelyn paused slightly. So, he knew about that too.

When she didn't respond, he continued, "I'm sure Flying Seal Group knows just how fierce the competition is this time. If you're not sure you can win, it'll just be a waste of resources."

"What exactly are you trying to say, Mr. Grant?" Evelyn asked coolly, cutting off whatever else he planned to say.

Lucas looked at her frosty, indifferent expression. Then, his lips curved faintly. "Let's do a joint bid."

"Flying Seal Group could consider teaming up with Arrowpoint Solutions. You have the edge in innovative R&D, and we, backed by TechNova Group, can ensure technical stability. We'll both get what we want. It's the optimal solution."

Evelyn suddenly understood everything. No wonder he had approached her out of nowhere. No wonder he had feigned concern and even draped a coat over her shoulders.

Of course, no one would show up at your door empty-handed.

Lucas wanted something. "Joint bid" sounded nice on paper. But in reality, it was about using Flying Seal Group's credibility to launch Arrowpoint Solutions' first major government project.

Evelyn didn't respond. Instead, she walked straight past Lucas and headed toward the 3D sample lab. Her mind, though, was turning.