Chapter 658

Lotus's small hand suddenly clutched her sister's sleeve, his eyes fixed on the bulging paper bag in Alexander Hamilton's grasp.

"Big brother bought buns for Dr. Carter!" Lily Waters' eyes lit up, her smile blooming like a tiny flower.

Only then did Evelyn Carter notice what Alexander was holding.

When had he picked those up?

Alexander extended the bag toward her. "Eat them while they're warm."

"Have you eaten?"

"No." He paused. "Didn't want to waste time."

Lily giggled behind her hand. "I'm not in a hurry. As long as you don't change your mind."

Lotus's gaze remained glued to the steamed buns.

Evelyn counted them. "Six?"

"Mm. Stood in line forever."

She pulled out two and offered them to the siblings.

"No, no!" Lily waved her hands frantically. "We already had rice porridge."

Lotus swallowed hard and mumbled, "Rice porridge doesn't have meat..."

"Lotus!" Lily scowled. "We're here to do business!"

Alexander suddenly spoke up. "Lily, how much for your woven grass figures?"

"One dollar each!" Her eyes sparkled. "But for you, I'll give three for two dollars!"

"I'll take a cricket, rabbit, and dog."

"Coming right up!" Lily bounced excitedly. "I'll run home and get them!"

Alexander patted his pockets. "No change. Will you trade for buns instead?"

Lotus tugged urgently at his sister's sleeve.

Lily's cheeks pinkened. "You...you're good people."

Understanding, Evelyn pressed the buns into Lotus's hands. "Deal. Don't forget our grass figures later."

Lotus devoured his portion while Lily nibbled delicately, like a little squirrel.

"You don't often go to town?" Alexander asked.

"Too much work at home," Lily explained. "We raise fish and lotus roots."

Lotus suddenly blurted, "Someone poisoned our pond!"

Lily's face paled. "Stop talking nonsense!"

Alexander and Evelyn exchanged glances.

This village had secrets.

On the path to the pond, Lily skipped ahead, pointing. "The shortcut through the village outskirts is fastest."

"Can we drive there?"

"Sure!" Lily thumped her chest. "I could find my way blindfolded!"

When they reached the black Cayenne SUV, Lotus's jaw dropped.

Alexander opened the passenger door. "Hop in."

But both children froze, too intimidated to move.