Chapter 13 — Velvet & Steel
Lizzie's VIP lounge, late again.
Evelyn waited — standing this time.
One hip cocked, arms folded, midnight hair spilling over one shoulder.
"Didn't think you'd come," she said, a slow smile playing on her lips.
I stepped inside, shutting the door behind me.
"Didn't think you'd ask."
Evelyn's eyes traced mine — that careful, practiced allure sharpened with something darker.
"You always this bold with your fixers?"
I smirked, walking up to her, stopping just close enough.
"Only the ones who want me to be."
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[System Notice: Evelyn Parker — Interest +5 — Dominant Confidence Applied]
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Evelyn tilted her head, challenging.
"This job could make you… or end you. And here you are… acting like you've already won."
I met her gaze, steady.
"Maybe because I have."
Evelyn gave a soft laugh — genuine this time.
"Cocky. Dangerous."
I stepped in — hand sliding to her waist, slow and deliberate.
She didn't stop me.
"You like dangerous," I murmured.
Her breath hitched — just for a beat.
"I like control," she whispered.
I leaned in, lips brushing the corner of her mouth.
"Then stop giving it away so easy."
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Her eyes flashed — part challenge, part raw spark.
She reached up — fingers grazing my chest, nails trailing light over synth-leather.
"Careful… you might tempt me into forgetting business."
I gave a slow grin.
"Who said we're not handling both?"
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[System Notice: Evelyn Parker — Physical Boundaries Pushed — Interest +15]
[Harem Progress: Evelyn Parker — Stage 3 Full Access to Flirtation & Close Physical Contact]
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Evelyn pulled back — not flustered, but her smile a shade sharper now.
"I'll see you at Konpeki."
I brushed my thumb over her hip before stepping away.
"Count on it."
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As I turned, she called after me — voice like velvet steel.
"Don't die before then, Alaric…
Would be a shame to waste all that potential."
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[System Note: Evelyn Parker — Now Open to Intimate Advances Post-Heist]
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Romance Targets After Chapter 13 Recap:
Evelyn Parker — Interest: +130 — Stage 3 Complete — Full Access to Flirtation & Intimacy After Key Event
Judy Alvarez — Interest: +60 — Stage 3: Personal Connection & Tease Level Unlocked