Chapter 536

Emily Zade's voice wavered with hesitation. "Mr. Hamilton, isn't it too abrupt to release the statement now? Banyan Group hasn't been notified—"

"Release it immediately."

"Understood."

The call ended. Andrew Anderson narrowed his eyes at Alexander Hamilton. "What scheme are you plotting now, boy?"

"Just settling what needs to be settled."

Andrew scoffed. He turned and saw Evelyn still standing motionless. His voice sharpened with urgency. "Why aren't you dressed? Put on your coat!"

Evelyn obediently wrapped herself in her father's jacket.

"Still cold?"

"Not anymore." Her whisper betrayed her as pale lips trembled.

Andrew studied his daughter's face before finally relenting. "...Hamilton. Where's this teahouse you mentioned?"

Alexander gestured smoothly. "Right across the street."

Upstairs in the private tea room, sandalwood incense curled through the air.

Andrew positioned Evelyn against the wall, placing himself squarely between her and Alexander like a protective beast guarding its cub.

A server brought Junshan Silver Needle tea. As Alexander moved to pour, Andrew shoved the cup away.

"Mr. Anderson—"

"Don't bother!"

Anthony Taylor hastily intercepted the teapot. "Allow me."

Alexander sat back awkwardly, his gaze drifting toward Evelyn. She kept her eyes downcast, slender fingers absently tracing the rim of her untouched cup.

"Mr. Anderson, please." Anthony offered tea with both hands.

Andrew's laugh was icy. "We simple folk aren't accustomed to such finery. Plain water will do."

Alexander pressed the service bell. "Bring jasmine tea."

Andrew slammed the table. "Enough theatrics! You investigated thoroughly—my girl grew up drinking jasmine blossoms!"

The room froze.

A trembling server delivered fresh tea. Anthony poured a steaming cup. "Andrew, about the past—"

Crack. Andrew seized the scalding cup. Blisters rose instantly on his reddened palm.

"Dad!" Evelyn gasped, grabbing his wrist.

He seemed not to feel the burn, staring fixedly at Anthony. "When my daughter fell through the ice at three years old—where were you?"

Anthony's face drained of color.

"If Old Li hadn't been fishing that day, she would've—" Andrew's voice broke. "Twenty years too late for reunions now!"

Evelyn clung to her father's arm, tears splashing his burned hand. "I'll always be your daughter..."

Anthony staggered to his feet, bowing deeply. "We failed her..."

"Spare me!" Andrew shook Evelyn off violently. "People like you—can't even protect a child! You deserve to be parents?!"

The teacup shattered against the floor. Shards flew like accusations.