Chapter 424

Evelyn Carter's fingertips turned icy cold.

She understood Margaret Hamilton's intentions perfectly. Last time at the family dinner, Margaret had deliberately summoned Alexander Hamilton home and insisted he drive her back.

Vivian Dempsey gave her hand a reassuring squeeze under the table.

"Don't engage," Vivian whispered.

Evelyn nodded slightly.

"Young master is back!" Auntie Marry's voice rang out suddenly. "And this is..."

Alexander strode in wearing a crisp suit, a strange woman clinging to his arm.

Not some nightclub floozy or college coed.

This time, it was a sophisticated urban professional. The four-leaf clover earrings at her lobes glinted with understated luxury.

"Van Cleef & Arpels," Vivian murmured.

Evelyn shot her a questioning look.

"That jewelry set costs as much as a compact car."

Margaret seemed prepared, offering a gracious smile. "Lydia, you've grown even more beautiful."

"Auntie!" The girl beamed, presenting a gift box. "Alexander and I picked this out together."

Margaret unwrapped the silk scarf and gave her son a meaningful glance. "Excellent taste."

"We took inspiration from that shawl Dr. Carter gave you," Alexander said flatly.

Anthony Taylor turned to his daughter. "You bought it?"

"Last year's birthday gift."

"Uncle Anthony!" The girl suddenly addressed him. "How is Auntie feeling?"

Anthony's smile stiffened. "The same. Annabelle—"

"Will be here shortly," Alexander interjected.

The girl's smile dimmed slightly.

The dining room suddenly felt cramped.

At the six-seater table, Margaret presided at the head with Anthony opposite. Vivian pulled Evelyn to the left side while Alexander naturally took the right, the girl clinging to his side.

"Try this," Alexander served the girl a portion.

"I'm watching my figure."

A phone vibrated silently beneath the table.

Vivian's message flashed: [Another new one? Does he have a wholesale supplier?]

Evelyn replied with a question mark.

[Wait—she called your dad "uncle"?]

Margaret smoothly intervened. "Lydia is the daughter of Banyan Group's Chairman Laurent. She just returned from abroad."

Vivian's eyes widened. "The one collaborating with Hamilton Group—"

Lydia Laurent suddenly stood. "Hello, Dr. Carter! Female med students are so cool!"

Evelyn barely had time to respond when the doorbell chimed.

Auntie Marry hurried to answer.

"Sorry I'm late." Annabelle Taylor's voice carried from the foyer.

The air in the dining room instantly froze.