Chapter 328

Evelyn's gaze lingered on Alexander's face before shifting to Annabelle.

Annabelle squirmed under her scrutiny. "I'm glad you're okay, Dr. Carter," she said hastily. "I...I'm not feeling well..."

Anthony Taylor immediately supported her. "I told you not to go, but you wouldn't listen."

"Someone had to represent our family at Uncle Dempsey's birthday banquet," Annabelle murmured. "I should share the responsibilities."

Anthony patted her hand approvingly. "You've matured."

"I was too selfish before. Because of me, Alexander and Dr. Carter divorced, and you had to worry..."

"Let's not dwell on the past. This time Alexander saved Dr. Carter. Maybe there's still hope for them."

Annabelle lowered her lashes. "If they reconcile, Grandma Hamilton can rest in peace."

"Go check on your mother."

"Okay."

Vivian Dempsey leaned close to Evelyn, whispering, "Annabelle was terrified by Grandma Hamilton's ghost. She even helped search for you today."

Evelyn's eyes flickered.

"Really," Vivian insisted earnestly. "Grandma Hamilton's spirit is watching over you."

Evelyn's lashes trembled slightly.

"Alexander nearly got himself killed looking for you," Vivian continued. "The fire was raging, but he searched every boat. His back was burned when he found you."

Evelyn's lips moved with difficulty.

"What?" Vivian asked.

"She wants her phone," Alexander said.

"Yours was destroyed in the fire." Vivian frowned. "Do you need to contact your parents?"

Alexander handed over his own phone. "She needs to type."

With shaking fingers, Evelyn typed:

[Do my parents know?]

"We didn't tell them," Vivian said quickly. "We didn't want them to worry."

Evelyn exhaled in relief.

"But your injuries..." Vivian hesitated. "Your plans to go abroad might need to be postponed."

Evelyn closed her eyes briefly in understanding.

[You should all go rest.]

"No way!" Vivian refused flatly. "You're seriously hurt—"

[I need to talk to Alexander.]

Vivian caught on. "Want me to leave?"

At Evelyn's nod, she stood. "I'll be right outside." Turning to Anthony, she added, "Uncle, let me walk you out."

The room finally quieted.

Alexander bent closer. "What do you want to ask?"

Evelyn typed slowly:

[Peter told you?]

Alexander's eyes flickered. "Yes."

A bitter smile touched her lips.

Of course.

[What did he want in return?]

"He wouldn't dare." Alexander's voice turned icy. "He crossed a line this time. All he wants now is to save himself."