Chapter 504

"Good that you understand."

Alexander Hamilton closed the first aid kit slowly after applying ointment to her wound. His movements were deliberate, as if deep in thought.

"I've figured it out," he stood up, looking down at her. "If reconciliation isn't possible, then so be it. This arrangement works fine too."

Evelyn Carter lifted her gaze. "If you want children, don't waste your time with me."

"Of course I want them."

The first aid kit clicked shut with a crisp sound.

"But you're right—children should grow up in a loving family." He paused. "I won't love anyone else, nor will I find someone just to have children."

Evelyn chuckled. "Then you might end up alone for life."

The corner of Alexander's mouth lifted slightly. "Then alone I'll be."

The moment the door closed, Vivian Dempsey's message popped up: "Who'd believe that nonsense! Men are all obsessed with procreation—even trash like Simon Stapleton demanded a son. With the Hamilton empire at stake, you think he'd go without an heir?"

Evelyn had no rebuttal.

Years in the OB-GYN department had shown her too many absurdities.

DINK couples in their forties where the husband suddenly fathered triplets with a woman in her twenties. Husbands who once pledged eternal love, bringing their new pregnant mistresses for checkups within months of discovering their wives' infertility.

If ordinary men were like this, what more Alexander Hamilton?

"By the way, did you see the class group chat?"

Evelyn finally remembered the muted notifications. "Been too busy lately. What's up?"

"The centennial alumni reunion! Rumor has it many successful graduates are returning. The class president wants us there for show." Vivian added a mischievous emoji. "Perfect chance for you to vet my plus-one."

Evelyn frowned. "Even a lavender marriage requires careful selection."

"Relax, if you say no, I'll swap him out immediately." A string of laughing emojis followed. "Gotta cast a wide net to catch the right fish!"

Seeing her friend's nonchalance, Evelyn felt reassured.

"Alright, see you then."

Alexander had chosen a room at the end of the hallway, so quiet the mountain rain was audible. That night, Evelyn slept unusually well.

At breakfast, a waiter respectfully presented the menu. "Miss Carter, breakfast is buffet-style, but do let us know if you have special requests."

Clearly, someone had given instructions.

"Thank you, this is fine."

She carried her plate to the window seat overlooking the garden. The post-rain greenery was vibrant, birdsong crisp and pleasant.

Just as she sat down, the sound of stroller wheels approached.

"Excuse me, is this seat taken?"

Looking up, she saw an impeccably dressed young mother. The baby in the stroller grinned at her, babbling incoherently.

"Please." Evelyn shifted aside.

The woman cheerfully sat down. "Wonderful! This is the best spot for rainbow-watching!" She lowered her voice conspiratorially. "Took me days to figure that out."

Evelyn studied her briefly. Staying at a resort this long suggested wealth. Her sunny demeanor reminded Evelyn of Vivian.

"Thanks for the tip." She smiled.

The woman expertly adjusted the stroller angle so her baby could see the garden. The little one giggled, the tiny flowers on her hat trembling with each head shake.

"Your daughter's adorable." Evelyn couldn't resist gently touching the baby's hand. "Six months old?"

Suddenly, the woman leaned in, blinking. "What's your relationship with Alexander Hamilton?"

Evelyn froze.

Another woman who knew Alexander?

This time—with a child?