Chapter 558

Alexander Hamilton tiptoed out of the bedroom with the Ragdoll cat in his arms, quietly closing the door behind him. The soft click of the lock left Evelyn Carter alone in the space.

Rubbing her temples, Evelyn still felt the lingering effects of last night's research marathon. After a quick wash, she tied up her long hair, her bare face still showing traces of exhaustion.

The aroma of century egg and pork congee drifted from the dining area. Alexander sat at the table, one hand stroking the cat in his lap while lifting the insulated lid with the other.

"Eat something first." He pushed a perfectly warmed bowl toward her.

Evelyn took a spoonful. The congee had been simmered to perfection—soft yet retaining just enough texture. Several refreshing side dishes were arranged beside it, their colors coordinated like an art piece.

Midway through her meal, she suddenly noticed a gaze upon her. Looking up, she met Alexander's focused eyes.

"Aren't you eating?"

"Already did." His fingers lightly scratched under the cat's chin. "You were sleeping so soundly, I didn't want to wake you."

Evelyn paused, instinctively glancing at the wall clock—10:15 AM. Rarely one to oversleep, the tips of her ears grew warm.

The Ragdoll rolled onto its back on Alexander's lap, exposing its soft belly. His slender fingers expertly massaged behind the cat's ears, eliciting contented purrs.

"The doctor said you need rest." Alexander checked his watch. "How was your sleep quality?"

Evelyn set down her spoon. "Did you carry me to bed?"

"No." Alexander maintained a straight face. "That was Alexander East."

"..."

"Don't believe me?"

"I do." Evelyn deadpanned. "Please thank Mr. Alexander East for me."

Amusement flickered in Alexander's eyes. "He said not to mention it. We seven brothers—East, West, North, South, Center, Fortune, and White—are always happy to help."

Evelyn nearly choked on her congee. Wiping her mouth, she put down the bowl. "Keep going with your tall tales."

Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting scattered light between them. Alexander suddenly said softly, "Bickering with you like this feels... nice."

"Life is made of these little moments, isn't it?" Evelyn stirred her congee absently. "We can't be performing in a drama every day."

Alexander nodded. "So, did you sleep well last night? I noticed you were frowning in your sleep."

"It was fine." She pressed her lips together. "Just overslept and delayed my work."

At this hour, her entire morning schedule had been disrupted. Sighing, she added, "Can skip lunch."

Alexander fed the cat a treat. "You've already mastered the theoretical knowledge. Proper relaxation actually aids digestion."

"Time waits for no one." Evelyn frowned. "The Anderson Group—"

"I promised to help you." Alexander interrupted. "My word stands."

Her fingers unconsciously traced the cat's soft fur. "Thank you, but I can handle it myself."

Rising toward the study, her retreating figure carried an air of detachment. Alexander watched her go, his fingers tightening slightly.

The Ragdoll suddenly leapt from his lap, darting after Evelyn. She quickly bent to catch the furry bundle, her fingertips accidentally brushing against Alexander's outstretched hand.

Both withdrew simultaneously. Alexander's expression remained neutral. "I've already spoken with your father. He'll fully cooperate with you."

"Unnecessary." Evelyn set the cat on the sofa. "Hamilton Group must be busy too."

She opened last night's notebook, the pages rustling faintly. Alexander stood his ground. "This assistance truly requires no repayment."

Without looking up, Evelyn tapped the documents. "You said the same thing last time in the capital." Her finger paused on a page. "And how did that turn out?"

Only the sound of turning pages filled the study. Watching her focused profile bathed in sunlight, Alexander's Adam's apple bobbed before he quietly closed the door behind him.