Chapter 211

Evelyn's face flushed crimson to the tips of her ears.

"Was I too straightforward?"

"No..." She twisted her fingers together, looking down. "It's just... I've never heard words like that before. I don't know how to react."

"Then I'll practice more." Peter Harrison said earnestly. "I'll look up romantic quotes online."

"Don't!" Evelyn waved her hands in panic. "I can't handle anything too cheesy."

They shared a quiet laugh.

The tips of Peter's ears turned pink.

"Evelyn, I'm not good with pretty words." He took a deep breath. "But I've planned our future. My savings these years are enough for a down payment at Scholar's Residence. The housing fund will cover the mortgage, and my year-end bonus is perfect for renovations."

He hesitated. "It's just..."

"What is it?"

"That property sells fast. I've already reserved a unit." His voice grew softer. "The agent keeps asking for documents."

"Are we signing the contract today?"

"I want to add your name to the deed."

Evelyn froze.

"I know it's too soon." Peter's palms grew damp. "But I want you to know I'm serious."

......

Mondays at the OB-GYN department were always packed.

Evelyn worked nonstop, not even pausing to drink water. That afternoon, she took leave and rushed to Scholar's Residence.

Peter waited outside the sales office in his white coat.

"Did you bring all the documents?"

Evelyn nodded.

"Your parents didn't object?"

The mention made her head throb.

She'd intended to take things slow.

But Emily Anderson, that traitor!

During summer break, Emily had been lounging at her place watching TV. While Evelyn showered, Peter texted.

Emily's shriek nearly shattered the windows.

By the time Evelyn rushed out, photos had already been shared in the family group chat.

Her mother's calls bombarded her instantly. Her father chimed in with suggestions, making it feel like an interrogation.

Auntie Lucy was worse.

When calls went unanswered, she phoned Emily instead.

"Evelyn's giving her statement now," Emily put it on speaker. "You can listen in."

The inquisition lasted until midnight.

The next morning, her parents delivered the household register.

She escaped to the hospital for overtime, narrowly avoiding further scrutiny.

According to Emily's reports, their parents and Auntie Lucy had become inseparable lately. Auntie Lucy deliberately lost at mahjong, infuriating her regular players who vowed never to play with her again.

"Evelyn, you're so lucky." Emily sighed. "Peter's willing to add your name before marriage. If it were Kyle, not only would he refuse, he'd make me pay for renovations too."