Chapter 656

"Waaah—I don't want a shot!"

"The doctor lady lied last time! It hurt so much!"

"Grandma, save me!"

The pediatric clinic was in chaos. Several children wailed with flushed faces, squirming desperately in their parents' arms.

Young mothers shot apologetic glances at Evelyn while soothing their little ones. "Dr. Carter, please excuse them. They don't understand."

"Everyone in our village trusts your skills, Dr. Carter."

Evelyn was accustomed to such scenes. She crouched to eye level with the most distressed boy. "I promise this won't hurt at all. If you're brave, I'll give you candy. Deal?"

The boy sniffled. "Really no pain?"

"Really." Her gentle nod held conviction. "I never lie."

By the time the last vaccination was done, the nurses could barely straighten their backs.

"Dr. Carter, your better half's here again," a nurse teased, nudging toward the doorway with a wink. "More punctual than an alarm clock."

Evelyn looked up to see Alexander Hamilton at the corridor's end, sunlight framing his tall silhouette as he cradled a thermal lunchbox.

"Eat while it's warm." He set the container on her desk. "Chicken soup today."

Her stomach growled in response. The rich aroma filled the clinic when she lifted the lid.

Alexander watched her eat with quiet contentment. These ordinary moments brought him profound joy.

"I spoke with Elder Thompson today," he murmured. "He mentioned a natural pond behind the village. Said the scenery's remarkable."

Evelyn picked at a tender piece of chicken. "I walk there often. The summer lotuses are breathtaking."

"I'd like to see it." His eyes sparkled. "If suitable, Hamilton Group could develop it into a scenic spot. Boost the local economy."

She set down her chopsticks, studying him seriously. "The remote location means high development costs. Even if built, tourists might not come this far."

"Worth trying." Resolve steeled his voice. "We'll invite partners to experience it first. Word of mouth spreads. Besides..."

He hesitated, tone softening. "I want to contribute something meaningful. These people need better medical care. Their children deserve proper schools."

Her heart fluttered. No further objections came, just a quiet murmur. "Don't overextend yourself."

At dusk, Alexander insisted on walking her home.

"It's just a few steps—" Evelyn protested.

"I heard you enjoy strolling by the pond?" His eyes brightened. "Show me?"

Darkness deepened across the unpaved village paths, illuminated only by scattered household lights. Crickets chirped in the grass as the evening breeze carried lotus fragrance.

"So peaceful." Alexander inhaled deeply. "More soothing than any urban tranquility."

Evelyn gazed at the distant shimmering water. "Nature's voice heals hearts."

Their elongated shadows merged on the moonlit ridge as they walked.

"Here we are." She pointed ahead. "The pond. The path gets rough at night—best admire from here."

Silver moonlight danced on the water's surface where lotus leaves swayed like ink-wash paintings.

"Big brother! Big sister!" A piping voice interrupted.

A pigtailed girl bounded over with a bamboo basket. "Buy a grasshopper weaving! Just one dollar!"

Alexander crouched, examining the intricate craft. "Exquisite. Did you make this?"

"My daddy did!" She puffed with pride. "He can weave anything!"

Turning to Evelyn, Alexander flushed. "I... didn't bring cash."

Evelyn checked her pockets, producing a hundred-dollar bill. "This is all I have."

The girl's eyes darted shrewdly. "Then stay at our house! We're right by the pond! Mama cooks delicious food, and my little brother catches fish!"

She ticked off her home's merits on tiny fingers, determined to secure this "big deal."

Alexander chuckled. "Too late tonight. Tomorrow?"

"Promise!" The child thrust out her pinky. "Pinky swear! I'll come fetch you at the clinic at dawn! Dr. Carter keeps her word!"

Their laughter rippled across the moonlit water, startling fireflies into a swirling dance.