Chapter 448

White Coat trembled in Evelyn's arms, letting out faint whimpers. His hind legs hung limp, the patchwork of wounds on his fur a horrifying sight.

Gregory knelt down, brows furrowed. "These injuries don't look accidental. Someone deliberately hurt him."

Evelyn's fingers gently stroked the shivering dog, her voice tight with suppressed rage. "The police said that thief had a record... If not for Alex—" She cut herself off abruptly.

Gregory tactfully didn't press, speaking softly instead. "Don't worry. He's safe now."

"Yeah." Evelyn forced a smile. "Thanks for bringing me home. Drive safely."

His gaze lingered on the shattered balcony before he stood. "I should report back to Miss Dempsey."

Evelyn nodded. "I won't see you out."

At the door, Gregory turned suddenly. "The police suggested single women keep men's items by the entrance. I have some old dress shoes—"

"No need," Evelyn interrupted. "My father's clothes and shoes will do."

Understanding, he changed the subject. "What's your plan now?"

"Taking White Coat to the vet first." She looked down at the injured dog with heartache. "I've been too busy to care for him properly."

"Let me take him," Gregory offered. "My place is quiet, good for recovery. And he knows me well."

As if understanding, White Coat tentatively licked Gregory's fingers.

After a pause, Evelyn relented. "Then I'll trouble you. I'll mail his food over."

Exhausted, Evelyn collapsed onto her bed after Gregory left and slept until dusk.

Hunger eventually roused her. Wrapping her nightgown tighter against the chilly draft, she opened the fridge.

Loud footsteps and dragging noises suddenly sounded outside her door.

When the knocking came, Evelyn peered through the peephole—

Alexander Hamilton?

And several unfamiliar men.

"Evelyn, open up." His voice carried through the wood.

She hesitated before pulling the door ajar. Alexander stood at the front, workers hauling large items behind him.

Before she could react, he slipped inside and shut the door on the others.

"Go put on proper clothes." He frowned.

Evelyn glanced down at her turtleneck. "This isn't enough?"

Alexander's gaze swept over her. "...Gained weight?"

"Nonsense."

"Your figure has improved." His eyes lingered pointedly.

Following his stare, Evelyn realized the fitted sweater accentuated her curves too obviously. Flushing with anger, she snapped, "What are those people here for?"

"To fix your window." His tone was casual. "But first, change into something looser."

"The police—"

"I know everything already." Alexander cut her off. "Now go change."

His commanding tone brooked no argument. Evelyn turned toward the bedroom, only to freeze at his meaningful parting words:

"Hurry up. We have important matters to discuss."