Chapter 441

Annabelle Taylor curled her lips disdainfully. "She's just a spoiled little girl. Lydia's eight years younger than Alexander. Without the Laurent family backing her, do you really think they'd have anything in common?"

"Do whatever you want." Evelyn Carter cut her off coldly. "I'm too busy to play these palace intrigue games with you. File your lawsuit or pull whatever stunt you're planning—bring it on."

She knew Annabelle too well. Today she'd cozy up to take down Lydia. Tomorrow she'd stab Evelyn in the back without hesitation if it served her interests.

Seeing her tactics weren't working, Annabelle suddenly softened her tone. "Relax, my situation's different now. If I can just get Lydia away from Alexander, I won't compete with you for the Hamilton title."

The absurdity made Evelyn laugh outright. "Been binge-watching too many period dramas? Get your head checked. For old times' sake, I can refer you to a good neurologist."

She turned and walked away without looking back, leaving Annabelle seething in the corridor.

The lotus pond shimmered under moonlight as Evelyn crossed the quiet walkway. Lydia should've finished taking photos and returned to the private dining room by now.

Alexander was probably having dinner with her.

The thought had barely formed when familiar voices carried from around the corner. Evelyn froze mid-step, instinctively wanting to retreat—but it was too late.

Alexander stood bathed in golden light, his tall frame unmistakable. His gaze locked onto Evelyn trying to melt into the shadows, eyes turning icy.

"Alexander," Lydia chirped obliviously, swinging her chain-strap purse. "Hold this for me? I'll just touch up my makeup."

He took the pink bag adorned with a plush charm—as天真as its owner. "I'll wait here."

"You're the best!" Lydia spun around and gasped upon spotting Evelyn. "Evelyn! You're dining here too?"

Evelyn gave a curt nod.

"Join us!" Lydia beamed with an innocence that was hard to refuse.

"I'm with a friend."

Undeterred, Lydia gushed about a boutique. "Their hair accessories photograph amazingly!"

"Another time." Evelyn brushed her off.

Watching Lydia skip away, Evelyn took a steadying breath and approached Alexander. "Are you serious about her?"

The plush toy on the pink bag swayed—a perfect match for Lydia's childlike charm.

"None of your concern." His voice was glacial.

Evelyn rarely showed patience. "The Laurents sheltered her too well. She doesn't understand how cruel people can be."

Silence.

"If you truly plan to be with her," Evelyn met his gaze squarely, "stay away from Annabelle."

Alexander laughed coldly. "What gives you the right? Neither party objects. Who are you to interfere?"

He was waiting for an answer.

But Evelyn only sighed. "I don't want to see innocents hurt. If you don't care, consider me meddling."

As she turned to leave, he spoke abruptly. "If I marry Lydia, will you attend?"

She paused. "Date's set?"

"Soon." His voice roughened.

A phone ring shattered the moment. Gregory Wilson's warm voice came through. "Had dinner?"

"Eating with Vivian now."

Alexander stood close enough to hear every word, his mouth twisting into a sneer.

Gregory continued, "Everything resolved?"

"Taken care of."

"Good." His tone brightened. "Need anything from the store? I can drop it off."

Evelyn started to decline when he added, "I miss White Coat. If you're busy, I can walk him."

Alexander finally scoffed aloud.

Gregory persisted, "Your broken light—I borrowed tools to fix—"

"Doctor Wilson checking in?" Alexander interrupted sarcastically. "Planning your own wedding soon?"