Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 198

**Even the Night Couldn’t Silence Her Light**

**Found You**

Tatiana hastily adjusted her glasses, a flimsy excuse tumbling from her lips. “I don’t like contacts.” The words felt like a shield, a barrier against the scrutiny she sensed around her.

Anna’s curiosity only deepened as she glanced at the portion of Tatiana’s face obscured by the mask. The visible half was already breathtaking, a tantalizing glimpse that left Anna eager to uncover the mystery behind the hidden features.

“Oh? So you’re here.”

Anna’s eyes lit up as she spotted Jasper, and without a moment’s hesitation, she tugged Tatiana along to greet him. Tatiana felt a prickling sensation race across her scalp, a mixture of excitement and dread. She wanted to break free from Anna’s grip, yet her heart thudded against her ribcage like a relentless drum, a frantic rhythm that echoed her unease.

This was too soon. She hadn’t anticipated encountering Jasper here, especially in a place like this. Just moments ago, she had confused him for Harpie!

“This is Ms. Tati, a renowned composer from overseas we just brought on board. She’s incredibly talented!” Anna’s enthusiasm was palpable, her pride shining through as she introduced Tatiana.

Jasper’s gaze landed on Tatiana, his dark eyes holding depths that felt unfathomable, almost like an abyss threatening to swallow her whole.

Tatiana couldn’t meet his gaze, but she could feel it piercing through her like a knife. Did he recognize me? No, that’s impossible. Dr. Harlow’s surgery was flawless. I can barely recognize myself at times. How could he?

She took a steadying breath, forcing her voice to remain steady, though she could feel the tremor threatening to break free. “Hello.”

Jasper extended his hand, the gesture both formal and strangely intimate. “Hello.”

Tatiana hesitated, staring at his hand as if it were a foreign object. With a surge of determination, she reached out, allowing their hands to connect briefly. She intended to withdraw immediately, but his grip tightened for a fleeting moment, a sudden jolt of pressure that sent her heart racing. Had he seen through her disguise? But just as quickly, he released her, leaving her feeling exposed yet relieved.

Anna observed the interaction with a hint of confusion. Jasper was notorious for his aversion to germs, rarely engaging in handshakes, let alone conversations. Bringing Tatiana over had seemed more like a formality than genuine interest.

Jasper retracted his hand with a flat expression. “I have other business. Excuse me.”

Anna’s response was immediate, her voice bright and eager. “Of course, of course! We’ll definitely take care of what you asked!”

“Mm.”

He turned and walked away without a second glance, his departure as decisive as it was abrupt.

As Jasper disappeared from view, Tatiana let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. He hadn’t recognized her. Thank goodness for that small mercy.

What she didn’t know was that the moment he rounded the corner, he halted. His hand clenched into a fist at his side, veins bulging as if he were fighting against an invisible force.

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