Chapter 292

Annabelle's head drooped lower.

"It was my own foolishness. My parents already gave me a stern lecture." Her voice was barely audible. "I know your heart belongs to Dr. Carter now. My parents said they've watched you grow up and understand your temperament. After causing you such a huge loss, you'd never swallow this injustice."

She paused, stealing a glance at Alexander Hamilton.

"Perhaps... I should find a way to make you happy."

The private room fell silent.

Gregory Wilson let out a soft chuckle. "That's quite an interesting proposition, Miss Taylor."

Annabelle bit her lip. "I know you all think I'm being hypocritical. But I mean it. If Alexander can reconcile with Dr. Carter, I'll feel at peace."

Her eyes reddened. "My parents are getting older, and I'm their only daughter. Everyone in our circle knows I can't have children..."

Gregory sighed. "Parents' hearts ache for their children."

"I know my sins are grave." Annabelle's nails dug into her palms. "Grandma Hamilton haunts my dreams every night, cursing me for ruining Alexander. All I want now is to atone..."

Evelyn Carter suddenly laughed.

"You don't believe me, Dr. Carter?"

"What do you think?" Evelyn arched a brow.

Annabelle took a deep breath. "I'll prove it to you. From now on, Alexander and I will be strangers. If it displeases you, we won't even need to be friends."

"Unnecessary." Evelyn's tone was flat. "I won't be around to see it."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm going abroad." Evelyn's gaze swept over Alexander's tensed jawline. "At least three years, possibly longer."

Alexander's head snapped up. "Where?"

"Undecided."

"When?"

"Waiting for the hospital's arrangements."

Alexander's knuckles turned white. "Are the formalities completed?"

Evelyn's lips curved. "What's the matter, Alexander? Still trying to stop me?"

The air froze.

Annabelle's eyes widened in shock.

Gregory pensively stroked his teacup.

Alexander's Adam's apple bobbed violently, but no words came out.