Chapter 421

"Doctor?"

Alexander Hamilton scoffed, his eyes filled with mockery. "First time I've seen a doctor making house calls at a billiards hall."

Evelyn Carter ignored his tone and cut straight to the point. "I'm not here for a medical consultation. There's something I need to discuss with you privately. It's past midnight—are you done here?"

"Privately?"

"Yes."

The others present weren't fools. They quickly made excuses to leave.

"Alex, I just remembered I have a meeting."

"My wife's been texting me to come home..."

Nathan York stepped in to smooth things over. "Let's go, everyone! My treat for late-night snacks!"

In moments, the billiards hall emptied, leaving only Evelyn, Alexander, and the girl who'd been learning to play.

The girl, clearly uncomfortable with the sudden tension, bit her lip but showed no intention of leaving.

Evelyn ignored the girl—who looked even younger than Emily Anderson—and asked Alexander directly, "Shall we move? That booth over there?"

Alexander didn't respond, his fingers absently tracing the pool cue.

Evelyn waited patiently.

After a long silence, Alexander finally spoke. "Vincent, come get her."

The girl's eyes welled up. "Will you still play with me next time?"

"Maybe."

She pointed timidly at Evelyn. "Is she... your girlfriend?"

Alexander glanced at Evelyn. "No."

"Then who is she?"

His patience clearly fraying, Alexander dialed a number. "Vincent, get back here now."

Hanging up, he signaled a server. "Escort this young lady to the parking lot."

"Alex!" Tears spilled down her cheeks. "I hate you!"

She turned and ran, the server hurrying after her.

Evelyn watched them go before following Alexander to the booth.

"Speak," he said, leaning back with closed eyes.

"Thank you for helping Grandma Duan."

Alexander frowned. "Vivian's grandmother?"

"Yes. You... didn't know?"

"The Hamiltons have no ties to the Dempseys. Why would I?"

"But the private jet—"

"What private jet?"

Evelyn studied his expression and realized he genuinely had no idea.

It must have been Anthony Taylor's doing.

"Never mind. My mistake." She shifted topics. "I came to talk about Peter Harrison."

Alexander's gaze turned icy. "He approached you?"

"Yes." She was direct. "He got laid off. I know it wasn't your direct order. But he wants back on that project."

"So you're here to plead for your childhood sweetheart?"

Evelyn took a steadying breath. "You know exactly what our relationship is."

"Precisely why I don't understand why you'd beg for him." Alexander suddenly leaned in. "Or is Peter just an excuse?"

"It's for my sister."

His expression darkened. "Who?"

"Peter lured her into working at Celestial Club. Last night, she almost got hurt. He threatened to keep harassing her if I didn't help him."

Alexander's face went cold. "That's it?"

"Yes."

"No."

He stood to leave.

Evelyn caught his arm. "Please—"

Alexander whirled around. "What are you offering?"

Her jaw tightened.

"What do you have to trade?"

"..."

"Evelyn." He stepped closer. "You came alone tonight. Cleared everyone out. What were you expecting?"

Her fists clenched.

She'd anticipated this. Either he'd help out of lingering affection, or... she'd have to pay a price.

But what did she have left?

"Was I wrong?" Alexander's laugh was bitter. "The virtuous Dr. Carter?"

Evelyn lowered her head. "I don't know what you want."

"Then figure it out before coming back."

"Wait—" She grabbed his sleeve. "...Fine."

Alexander's eyes frosted over. "Evelyn, do you know what I want?"

"I do," she forced out. "I accept."

He enunciated each word. "You don't."

"..."

"In your eyes, I'm just some animal ruled by base instincts?"

"..."

"You've rejected me at every turn. No matter how I apologize or make amends, it's never enough. Evelyn, do I lack for women? Why would I force someone who doesn't love me?"