Chapter 619

Evelyn gently set down her chopsticks, her gaze soft as she looked at Teresa. "You've just recovered, so proper rest is essential. I have a colleague in the rehabilitation department at Central Hospital who specializes in wellness. When we return, I'll ask him to give you some advice."

Tears welled in Teresa's eyes, her hand trembling slightly as she clutched her chopsticks. "With your care, I'm sure I'll recover quickly."

Her movements became noticeably lighter as she served herself, even adding an extra half-bowl of rice.

Anthony watched the interaction between his wife and daughter, his lips curving into an unconscious smile. Even Andrew, who had been suppressing his discomfort, couldn’t help but look relieved.

Evelyn caught a glimpse of her adoptive father’s expression, and her nose tingled with emotion.

Alexander sat between Emily and Margaret, but his eyes never left Evelyn. Sensing her emotional shift, he immediately stood and picked up the teapot. "This resort’s tea is specially sourced. Everyone should try it."

He poured tea for each person with natural ease, lingering a few extra seconds in front of Andrew.

Anthony and Margaret exchanged a surprised glance but quickly understood and lowered their heads.

Margaret watched her son’s considerate actions, a flicker of warmth in her eyes.

Only Evelyn knew Alexander was covering for her. As he poured, he deliberately slowed his movements, letting the warm stream fill her cup gently.

"Thank you," Evelyn murmured.

The gratitude in those words held a meaning only they understood.

After lunch, Anthony and Teresa returned to their room to rest. The others took a short break before heading to the resort’s famed natural hot springs.

The hot spring area was divided into separate sections for men and women, each further partitioned by bamboo fences into private courtyards. Before leaving, Alexander gave Evelyn a meaningful glance, silently assuring her he’d keep an eye on Andrew as they headed to the men’s area.

Watching her adoptive father’s retreating figure, Evelyn felt a slight easing of her worries. With Alexander nearby, at least he could step in if needed.

Emily buzzed around the changing room excitedly. "Sis, why are you just standing there spacing out?"

"Huh?" Evelyn snapped out of her thoughts. "Go ahead and shower first. I’ll join you soon."

"But you’ve already changed into your robe," Emily said, eyeing her suspiciously.

Evelyn rubbed her temples, realizing her distraction. "I was just thinking. Where’s Mom? It’s her first time here—"

Before she could finish, Grace and Margaret walked in, chatting and laughing. Their hair was neatly pinned up, and they carried matching towels.

"Mom, you—" Evelyn stared at her mother in surprise.

Grace linked arms with Margaret. "Thanks to Margaret’s guidance, I’ve learned so much about hot spring etiquette."

Emily leaned in and whispered, "Sis, Margaret and Mom have really hit it off. They were just discussing which hairstyle works best for soaking."

Evelyn finally relaxed. She looked at Margaret gratefully. "Margaret, thank you so much."

Margaret waved a hand, her tone gentle. "Your mother and I get along well. It’s only natural to help each other. But you—you’ve been pushing yourself too hard lately. Today, just unwind."

Emily suddenly lowered her voice. "Sis, are you overthinking things because of your ex?"

Evelyn’s fingers twitched. She pinched her sister’s cheek playfully. "Don’t be ridiculous."

"I think your ex has changed a lot," Emily said, blinking. "If he keeps treating you well, Dad would be happy too."

"Yeah…" Evelyn echoed softly. "There’s still time."

The words cut like a knife.

She still had time.

But her father’s time was running out.

Grace called out, "Come on, I heard these hot springs are great for the skin."

Margaret reminded Emily thoughtfully, "Tie your hair up tightly. The steam can make you catch a chill."

Evelyn watched as her mother and sister carefully adjusted their hair under Margaret’s guidance, her eyes stinging again. These small acts of kindness moved her more than any words ever could.