Chapter 604

Evelyn Carter's gaze traveled across the garden, landing on Anthony Taylor emerging from the villa. He pushed Teresa Taylor's wheelchair with unconcealed joy.

Teresa looked much healthier than the last time they'd met, though her doctor had advised against excessive movement during recovery. Spotting her daughter, she nearly stood up in excitement before Anthony gently restrained her.

Evelyn offered a polite smile, though discomfort flickered in her eyes. No mansion, however luxurious, could compare to the warmth of her childhood home.

"You came at the perfect time," Anthony greeted warmly. "Margaret is here too—she prepared your favorite soup when she heard you were visiting."

Grace Anderson stiffened, discreetly tugging her husband's sleeve. "Did we come at a bad time?"

Andrew Anderson frowned, scanning their surroundings warily.

"Don't misunderstand," Anthony clarified quickly. "Alexander's mother came to visit Teresa today."

Andrew's tense shoulders visibly relaxed. "Margaret's always been kind. She treated Evelyn well before."

Hearing Margaret's presence, Evelyn felt some tension ease. She hadn't seen the older woman since the private jet incident. With Margaret here, the evening might be bearable.

In the living room, Anthony carefully arranged seating for Emily Anderson, who leaned on crutches. The younger girl glanced nervously at her sister, only sitting after receiving an encouraging nod.

"Make yourselves at home," Teresa said gently.

Evelyn naturally settled beside her adoptive parents, a coffee table separating her from her biological ones. The silence grew so thick the ticking clock became audible.

Margaret emerged from the kitchen carrying soup, instantly grasping the atmosphere. She deliberately seated herself between the two families, ignoring even her own son.

"Evelyn, you've lost weight again," Margaret fretted, clasping Evelyn's hands. "I made yam and pork rib soup—you must have two bowls."

"Thank you, Auntie. I'm fine," Evelyn replied, touched by the concern.

"Has Alexander been causing trouble at the company?" Margaret shot her son a glare. "If he slacks off, you tell me immediately."

Evelyn chuckled. "Mr. Hamilton has been very helpful."

Andrew and Grace warmed to their former in-law, their lively conversation leaving Alexander sidelined. Seizing the moment, Anthony ventured, "Alexander, why not stay for dinner? You always loved Auntie Marry's braised pork."

All eyes turned to Andrew.

Alexander remained still, awaiting the family patriarch's verdict.

Just as he prepared to decline, Andrew suddenly spoke. "The trunk's still full." He jerked his chin at Alexander. "Come help unload."

Evelyn's eyes widened. Last time at the hospital, her father had outright refused Alexander's assistance.

"No need for formalities," Anthony protested.

Andrew snorted. "Guests shouldn't arrive empty-handed." He directed Alexander like a foreman. "The tea set goes to Mr. Taylor. The herbs are for Mrs. Taylor—don't mix them up."

Alexander immediately rolled up his sleeves, trailing behind like an obedient porter. When they returned, Andrew strode ahead empty-handed while Alexander struggled with packages like an errand boy.

Evelyn whispered to her mother, "What's gotten into Dad today?"

Grace seemed equally baffled. "Maybe... he's moved on?"

Neither found the explanation convincing.

As kitchen aromas wafted through the house, Evelyn helped her sister toward the dining room. Alexander followed silently, maintaining just the right distance.