Chapter 549

Alexander Hamilton had endured enough scolding from Andrew Anderson lately to become immune to Vivian Dempsey's sarcastic remarks.

"Got it," Bianca Langley raised an eyebrow with interest. "So does him securing my investment earn him any brownie points?"

Vivian pursed her lips. "Business is business. I still don't approve of him pestering Evelyn."

"Mr. Hamilton, take note. The revolution isn't over yet!"

Alexander rubbed his temples. "I'll take it slow. I'm correcting my mistakes—people need to see real change."

Evelyn ignored him, instead noticing the strain behind Bianca's smile.

Despite just returning from a relaxing hike, Bianca seemed more troubled than before.

"Miss Langley, I saw someone at the hotel last night," Evelyn began carefully.

"Who?"

"Vincent Croix," Alexander answered for her.

Bianca's smile froze. She took a sip of coffee, her voice tight. "What did he say?"

Evelyn frowned. "He said it was urgent but left when you weren't there. Has he been bothering you again?"

"Of course." Bianca covered Baby Chloe's ears and scoffed. "He won't stop until he gets what he wants. He didn't come all this way to leave empty-handed."

Alexander's brow furrowed. "What exactly is he after?"

Vivian clenched the contract nervously, fearing the deal might be jeopardized.

"Good news." Bianca forced a smile as she took a bite of cake. "I'll finally be able to divorce him. No more pretending."

The group collectively gasped.

Evelyn watched Bianca's forced cheerfulness and saw her own past reflection.

Bianca even managed a joke. "Don't look so shocked. It'll take a while before it's official."

Evelyn's heart ached as she glanced at the oblivious baby. "Did he initiate it? Why so suddenly?"

Bianca shrugged. "His mistress is pregnant. Probably wants legitimacy."

The storyline felt painfully familiar.

No wonder Vincent couldn't even recognize his own daughter. To him, she was just a byproduct of social climbing.

His real heir was growing in another woman's womb.

Alexander's expression darkened. Though he despised Vincent's infidelity, he was the last person qualified to judge.

Evelyn focused on practical concerns. "What will you do? Raising a child alone is tough."

"One step at a time." Bianca exhaled, smiling faintly. "I'm tired. It's time to free myself. As long as I have Chloe, I'll give her the world."

Her tone was light, but her hand never left the baby's ears.

Vivian seethed. "I hate cheaters! May his new woman betray him, and may that child not even be his!"

She shot Alexander a pointed glare.

He remained silent.

Bianca waved it off. "It doesn't matter. Just keep him away from me."

She called for a car.

"Since he's tracked me here, I shouldn't stay. I'll bring Chloe to visit another time."

Struggling to gather the baby's things, Bianca fumbled.

Evelyn stood immediately. "Let me help."

She and Vivian swiftly packed Chloe's belongings, even refilling the thermal bottle with hot water.

Alexander handed over newly purchased toys. "Take these. They'll come in handy."

"Thanks." Bianca adjusted Chloe in her arms and smiled. "Mr. Hamilton, Dr. Carter, if I ever end up homeless, I'll crash at your place."

Alexander agreed readily. "Anytime."

He deliberately said "we."

Vivian immediately pulled Evelyn aside. "Mr. Hamilton's mansion has staff for everything. Miss Langley, come to my place—Evelyn and I will cook for you!"

Bianca chuckled at Vivian's antics before leaving without another word.

Evelyn watched the car disappear, her chest tight.

Every fear about the baby had materialized.

Vivian fumed. "How could Vincent abandon someone like Bianca? Are all rich men blind?"

"Every family has its struggles," Evelyn murmured, seeing her past self again.

A call from Vivian's company forced her to leave.

Evelyn urged, "Go ahead. Don't delay your work."

Vivian tucked away the contract. "Evelyn, wait for my good news!"

"Let's both do our best."

As Vivian passed Alexander, she muttered something under her breath before walking off.

Alexander, focused on Evelyn, only caught fragments.

Evelyn translated, "She said thank you."

It was what she wanted to say too. Without Alexander's connections, Bianca's network wouldn't have been secured so smoothly.

Alexander replied simply, "It was nothing."