Chapter 608

The dining room was filled with the subtle aroma of home-cooked food.

Margaret Hamilton and Anthony Taylor exchanged glances, both holding their breaths unconsciously.

Andrew Anderson's question caught everyone off guard.

"How can you guarantee your words are sincere now? What if you change your mind later?"

His gaze was piercing, his voice low but firm.

Alexander Hamilton straightened his posture, meeting Andrew's eyes directly.

"Uncle Andrew, you've witnessed everything I've done these past days."

The scar above his brow was particularly visible under the light.

Andrew studied that scar for a long moment, his expression softening slightly.

"Even if you're sincere now, who can predict the future?"

Alexander clenched his fists.

"I swear on my life. I'll only love Evelyn Carter forever, without wavering."

His voice carried the unwavering certainty of words carved in stone.

Margaret interjected gently, "He's even considered adoption arrangements."

Andrew's gaze shifted to Evelyn.

She kept her head down, her lashes casting delicate shadows across her face.

"Pretty words mean nothing unless Evelyn agrees."

Alexander responded without hesitation, "My love for her requires no reciprocation."

The dining room fell so silent the ticking of the clock became audible.

Andrew nodded slowly. "I'll judge by actions."

"My word is my bond."

Alexander's declaration resonated with absolute conviction.

Andrew's expression finally relaxed. "Now that's more like it."

Evelyn's soup spoon froze mid-air.

"Dad?"

She forced a faint smile. "Didn't you say you wanted me home for a few more years?"

Andrew sighed. "Silly child, we can't be with you forever."

Evelyn avoided Alexander's intense gaze.

"My focus is on managing the company now."

"If you won't consider your future, we must." Andrew looked pointedly at Alexander. "After observing him these days... he's not entirely unsuitable."

A subtle smile touched Alexander's lips.

Margaret watched this exchange with mixed relief and concern.

Anthony remarked wistfully, "A parent's greatest wish is seeing their child find steadfast support."

Teresa Taylor squeezed her husband's hand. "Having someone by your side during illness matters more than anything."

Evelyn stirred her soup absently, offering no reply.

After dinner, Margaret prepared to leave.

Alexander cast one lingering glance at Evelyn, who remained distant.

Anthony insisted warmly, "It's late—why not stay the night?"

Andrew hesitated. "We wouldn't want to impose."

Noticing Emily Anderson's injured leg, Evelyn said softly, "Dad, Emily shouldn't climb stairs alone."

Anthony immediately added, "The guest rooms are ready."

Andrew finally acquiesced. "Then we'll trouble you this once."

Evelyn volunteered, "I'll help Emily upstairs."

Watching her father ascend the staircase, she suddenly noticed how his shoulders seemed less broad than she remembered.