Chapter 641

Elder Thompson's wrinkled hand clutched Evelyn Carter's sleeve tightly. His clouded eyes brimmed with pleading. "Dr. Carter, can you really stay until year's end? Previous doctors never lasted more than a month..."

Evelyn studied the old man's hunched posture. Her heart softened. "I promise to stay at least through December."

"Wonderful!" The village elder rubbed his hands excitedly. "I'll announce the good news immediately!"

"Wait." Evelyn stopped him. "The gifts from the villagers are too generous. We can't possibly consume everything."

Elder Thompson slapped his thigh. "Then we'll present you with an honorary banner!"

"Absolutely not." Evelyn suppressed a laugh. "Everyone's good health is the greatest gift."

A pigtailed girl came sprinting toward them, breathless. "Grandpa Elder! There's a huge shiny car at the village entrance!"

The elder frowned. "Who would visit this remote place?"

"The man's so handsome!" The child gestured wildly. "Even prettier than TV stars!"

Evelyn's pulse quickened.

"Dr. Carter, you've seen the world." Elder Thompson entreated. "Would you accompany me? Perhaps it's an investor..."

Evelyn nodded faintly.

As they walked, she casually asked the girl, "What color was the car?"

"White!" The child skipped ahead. "With a jumping horse emblem!"

Evelyn's steps faltered.

Of course.

The village entrance swarmed with spectators. At the center, Alexander Hamilton stood besieged by children. Muddy handprints smeared his tailored suit.

"Mister, your watch glows!"

"Brother, why's your tie so tight?"

"Uncle, your shoes shine like mirrors!"

Alexander floundered under the onslaught. Then he looked up—and locked eyes with Evelyn's amused gaze.

She stood at the crowd's edge in a dirt-streaked white coat, hands in pockets. Sunlight gilded her silhouette.

"Alexander." She tilted her head slightly. "Looking for me?"