Chapter 625

Evelyn's tears burst forth like a dam breaking.

She clutched her father's rough hands, her voice shattered beyond recognition. "Dad, let's get treatment abroad. I have money now—real money..."

Andrew Anderson shook his head gently, his gaze shifting past her to Alexander. "Alex, this old man has no regrets...except worrying about my Evelyn."

Alexander's Adam's apple bobbed as he spoke in a low voice. "Mr. Anderson, I've contacted specialists at MD Anderson Cancer Center."

"No need." Andrew waved a frail hand. "These old bones can't take the journey."

The forest breeze stilled abruptly.

Evelyn's quiet sobs cut through the unnatural silence.

"Dad..." She bit her lower lip until copper bloomed on her tongue. "You haven't seen me in a wedding dress yet."

Andrew's laugh crinkled the corners of his eyes. "Silly girl, I'll watch from heaven."

Alexander turned away, knuckles whitening around clenched fists.

"Mr. Anderson, the private jet stands ready." His voice roughened. "Just say the word."

Andrew patted his daughter's trembling shoulder. "Evelyn, I've lived fully. Marrying your mother, having you and Emily—that's enough."

Evelyn jerked upright, vision blurred. "So you'd just leave us?"

"Not by choice." Andrew sighed. "Fate's decree."

A brittle snap echoed from the trees.

Emily stood frozen behind an oak, face bloodless. "Dad...Evelyn...what are you talking about?"

The air crystallized.

Evelyn scrubbed at her cheeks, only for more tears to fall.

"Emily..." Andrew's voice trembled. "You heard?"

Emily stumbled forward, seizing Evelyn's arm. "Evelyn, Dad's joking, right?"

Alexander retreated silently, granting the family space.

"Emily." Evelyn drew a shuddering breath. "Dad has..."

"Stage four lung cancer." Andrew finished bluntly. "Doctors say it's metastasized."

Emily's tears fell like rain. "Impossible! You made me chicken soup last week—"

"That's why I want more time with you both." Andrew wiped his youngest's cheeks. "No crying. Breaks this old man's heart."

Evelyn surged to her feet. "I'll take leave. Stay with you every second."

"Nonsense!" Andrew frowned. "The company just stabilized—what kind of example is that?"

"I can work remotely—"

"Evelyn." Andrew cut her off. "My greatest pride is having a daughter like you. Don't let me go with regrets."

Emily collapsed against her father, wailing.

In the shadows, Alexander watched Evelyn's ramrod-straight back. An invisible fist squeezed his heart.

"Mr. Anderson." He stepped forward. "I'll protect them."

Andrew looked up, rheumy eyes glistening. "Alex, I trust you."

A falling leaf spiraled onto Evelyn's shoulder.

She caught it in her palm—icy against her skin.