Chapter 327

Boom—

A deafening explosion tore through the air.

"Evelyn!!"

Who was calling her?

"Alexander, are you insane?! The fire's too intense—you'll die if you go back in!"

"Get out of my way!"

She felt herself lifted by the thick smoke, light as a feather. Strong arms wrapped around her, the familiar scent of pine mingling with the acrid smell of burning filling her nostrils.

A biting chill jolted her awake.

Her eyes fluttered open to blinding white. The sterile scent of disinfectant told her she was in a hospital.

"Evelyn!"

Vivian Dempsey rushed to the bedside, her eyes swollen like peaches. "You scared me to death! Do you have any idea?!"

She tried to speak, but her throat burned as if sliced by knives.

Vivian immediately pressed her hand down. "Don't talk! The doctor said your airways are severely damaged." She fumbled around frantically. "I brought warm water and glucose for you..."

The sound of hurried footsteps echoed outside.

The room was suddenly packed.

Evelyn's gaze swept over each face.

Anthony Taylor stood there, guilt-ridden. Olivia Lightfoot paced anxiously. Natalie Stapleton sobbed uncontrollably. "Evelyn, it's all my fault..."

She shook her head gently.

Vivian spoke for her. "Simon Stapleton is a madman. Who could've guessed he'd set the fire? My dad's already investigating who lured you to the backyard."

"My father arranged for the best pulmonologist," Natalie choked out. "You have to get better."

Her eyes traveled past the crowd.

Alexander Hamilton stood at the front, his suit charred and tattered. His exposed arms bore gruesome burns, his right cheek blackened.

Annabelle Taylor hid behind him, her clothes merely dusted with ash. "Alexander nearly died saving you."

Evelyn smirked coldly.

"His throat is injured too," Annabelle continued, "but he insisted on staying with you."

Alexander's Adam's apple bobbed, his voice hoarse. "Does it hurt?"

Vivian cut in. "She can't speak right now. Go treat your wounds first—they're practically cooked."

He didn't move.

His scorching gaze remained locked on her.