Chapter 616

Alexander Hamilton bowed slightly, his tone sincere. "Uncle Andrew, I've never forgotten what you said at the Anderson family gathering. No matter what Evelyn chooses, I'll spend my life cherishing her. Her family is my family."

Andrew Anderson lifted his head slowly, illness etching exhaustion across his once-stern features. He sighed deeply, locking eyes with Alexander. "To be honest, I never approved of you as a son-in-law. Especially after learning what you did to Evelyn—I wanted to beat you senseless. If I hadn't feared dragging her and the others into it, I would have."

This stubborn old man had spent his life protecting his family with his fists. Even now, with death looming, he refused to waver.

Alexander remained composed. "A father protecting his daughter is only natural. I understand."

"You truly hold no grudge?" Andrew pointed to the scar on Alexander's face. "I ruined your handsome features."

Alexander smiled faintly. "A man's worth isn't in his face, but in his shoulders."

A flicker of approval crossed Andrew's eyes. He recognized the deeper meaning—shoulders meant responsibility.

"Fine. I'll trust you this once." Andrew pushed himself up from his knees. "The doctors say my time is short. I need to find someone reliable for Evelyn..."

Alexander immediately rose to assist, but Andrew waved him off. Still, Alexander waited until the older man steadied himself before letting go.

Andrew gasped for breath, chuckling bitterly. "Just sitting makes me dizzy. This body is truly failing."

His lungs could no longer sustain normal activity. If this continued, Evelyn would notice soon.

Turning to Alexander, Andrew's expression grew solemn. "You weren't my ideal choice, but right now, you're the only one I can rely on. Anthony says you've truly changed... Mr. Hamilton, I'm begging you—take care of my girls."

The proud old man bent at the waist, bowing deeply.

Horrified, Alexander rushed to stop him. "Uncle Andrew, you mustn't!"

Andrew completed the bow despite the sweat beading on his forehead. "You've accepted my bow—now remember your promise! Or I'll kneel!"

Alexander immediately returned the gesture.

Andrew's face darkened. "What's this?"

Meeting the old man's gaze, Alexander said, "I want you to know—even without your request, I would protect Evelyn and her family. You're a good father. I am not."

Andrew snorted, shaking his head. "That child..."

The words pierced Alexander's heart.

Andrew brushed imaginary ash from his sleeve, voice low. "I ask only that you keep your word. Even if... even if you falter again, for my sake and Anthony's, don't let Evelyn suffer."

This man who never bowed his head had set aside all pride for his daughter's future.

Alexander vowed, "I swear there will never be another mistake."

Andrew nodded and began detailing final arrangements. The usually taciturn father now poured out every instruction.

"Evelyn is stubborn—she understands but won't speak... Don't let her cry too long. It harms her health."

"Grace and Emily too... I leave them in your hands..."

Alexander committed each word to memory. "You have my word. I'll never forget."

Andrew only stopped when his throat grew dry. Before leaving, he gripped Alexander's arm fiercely. "Not a word of this to Evelyn."

Alexander remained silent.

"I have two, maybe three months left." Andrew's voice trembled. "I just want to spend these last days happily with my family... Alexander, help me."