Chapter 101

Evelyn's knuckles turned white as she gripped the water glass. "The house purchase wasn't what you think..."

The clerk interrupted with a smile. "No need to explain. Your husband was so worried about you. His face went pale when you cried out in pain."

Evelyn froze.

Alexander responded calmly, "Mm."

She whipped her head around to stare at him.

Alexander stood and gave the clerk a polite nod. "Thank you for your time today."

"No trouble at all," the clerk beamed. "I see couples arguing every day. It's rare to witness such devotion."

As they left, the clerk patted Alexander's shoulder. "Young man, cherish what you have."

Alexander maintained a courteous smile.

Then he met Evelyn's piercing gaze.

"Why did you change your mind?"

"Change my mind?" His lips twisted bitterly. "I should have done it sooner."

Evelyn clenched her fists. "This divorce will happen eventually."

"No rush."

"Alexander!"

He suddenly reached out and steadied her trembling fingers. "Evelyn, I—"

A shrill ringtone cut through the air.

The name "Annabelle" glared from the screen.

"Should I leave?"

"Unnecessary."

"Then take it outside."

Alexander answered immediately. "What is it?"

His expression darkened instantly. "Uncle Taylor?"

Frantic speech crackled through the receiver.

Alexander's frown deepened until he abruptly stood. "Evelyn, I have to go. I'll arrange a ride for you."

"What about the paperwork?"

"Another day." He was already dialing another number, issuing rapid instructions before turning back. "Don't aggravate your leg injury."

"Who's picking me up? That gambling-addict secretary of yours?"

His eyes darkened. "He was fired months ago. Emily is back."

Evelyn stared in disbelief. "Annabelle allowed that?"

"She has no authority over company matters." A ruthless glint flashed in his eyes. "I indulged her too much before."

"Twenty years of affection, gone just like that?"

Alexander's Adam's apple bobbed. "It's different."

The phone rang again.

His retreating figure carried uncharacteristic haste.

Five minutes later, a familiar face appeared at the civil affairs bureau entrance.

"Hey, beautiful..." Vincent scratched his head with an awkward grin.

Evelyn narrowed her eyes. "Message-in-a-bottle guy?"

"That's me!"

"You and Alexander—"

"Childhood friends!" Vincent hurried to explain. "Asking for your number was entirely my idea—Alex had nothing to do with it!"

Evelyn smirked coldly. "How refreshingly honest."

Vincent chuckled nervously before sobering. "But let's be clear—I'm Team Annabelle."