Chapter 449

Evelyn studied Alexander's expression. He didn't seem like he'd actually break the law.

She'd glimpsed uniformed workers outside earlier—more like renovation crews than anything else.

"Hurry up," Alexander urged impatiently.

Evelyn retreated to the bedroom and pulled on a loose sports jacket.

Only then did Alexander give a satisfied nod.

His gaze drifted to the suit jacket draped over the chair.

"Your clothes are too expensive for me to risk washing," Evelyn explained. "I'll take it to the dry cleaner this afternoon and return it."

"Leave it here." His tone was icy.

"You're not taking it?"

"Do I look like I need clothes?"

Evelyn stiffened. "It's taking up space in my apartment."

"Hang it on the balcony."

"The balcony's for drying laundry—"

Then it hit her. The police had suggested keeping men's clothing visible outside.

Was he hinting at that?

Alexander didn't elaborate. "Where's that nightgown of yours?"

"About to toss it. Why?"

"Nothing. Just didn't expect you to wear that style."

"It's a normal nightgown. What's wrong with it?"

"You used to wear full pajamas." His expression darkened. "Bought it for Gregory, didn't you?"

Evelyn exhaled sharply. "It was the only cotton option at the supermarket. Besides, didn't you say he couldn't get in?"

"Hmph." Alexander's eyes dropped to the bruises on her wrist. "That bastard did this? Where else are you hurt? It looks bad."

"Minor injuries. They'll fade."

His stare lingered on her neck.

Evelyn tugged her collar higher.

He tossed her a small bottle from his pocket. "Use this."

She caught it. "Liniment?"

"Mhm." The tension in his brow eased slightly. "Worked well when I sprained my wrist."

"...Thanks."

Alexander turned toward the door. "Wait in the bedroom. The crew's all men. They're replacing your windows and locks."

So those large items outside were window frames.

"How did you know my window measurements?"

"Same floor plan as mine. Had them custom-made."

When Evelyn hesitated, he added, "I broke them last night. My responsibility. The workers are waiting, and I have meetings."

She withdrew to the bedroom as demolition sounds filled the living room.

Checking her phone, she saw messages from Vivian.

By the time she replied, the noise outside had stopped.

Alexander knocked. "Done. Come see."

The transformed balcony left Evelyn speechless.

Thickened glass panels now framed the space, reinforced with retractable alloy security bars.

"This is overkill."

"Standard for high-rises now." Alexander handed her a remote. "Retractable. Won't block sunlight."

She tested the sturdy material. "How much? I'll transfer the cost."

Alexander's eyes turned glacial. "What?"

"You were helping me last night. The expense is mine." She glanced at the workers. "Including labor."

"If Gregory had installed these, would you be paying him too?"

Evelyn fell silent.

With Gregory, she'd have refused outright.

"Hmph." Misreading her quiet, Alexander laughed bitterly.

"What's funny?"

"Your best friend's drowning in debt. You're saving for a down payment." His voice dripped sarcasm. "Premium materials. Top-tier labor."

"I can use credit."

Alexander stepped closer, eyes locking onto hers. "If you're that desperate for money, why not ask Gregory? The Wilsons could spare a few million."

"Why would I borrow from him?"

"Because—" His smile turned cruel. "Men will do anything for women they want."