Chapter 676

"Tomorrow's the big market day." Evelyn steadied Alexander as they walked toward the village entrance, smoothing his crumpled shirt collar. "People from nearby villages will come. The town will be packed."

She had come to the mountains to escape her heartbreak, keeping local customs at arm's length. But last night's harrowing experience sparked her first real interest in such folk traditions.

Alexander mused, "Why don't we stay in town a couple days?" He glanced at his mud-splattered trousers. "Might as well experience the market firsthand."

Evelyn gave a soft "Mm-hmm."

Before leaving, Emily had the driver park their SUV at the village entrance. Evelyn took the keys, testing the unfamiliar vehicle's handling on the dirt road with quick adaptability.

The mountain path to town twisted unevenly. With his swollen ankle, Alexander could only lean in the passenger seat, watching Evelyn's steady hands on the wheel.

"Didn't know you drove this well," he remarked, surprise coloring his tone.

Evelyn kept her eyes on the thickening traffic. "An OB-GYN's hands must be steady." She swerved around a darting motorcycle. "Compared to surgical scalpels, a steering wheel's child's play."

Market stalls were already being set up. Watching the bustling crowds through the window, Alexander suddenly said, "I think I'm starting to understand what you meant about simple living."

Evelyn shot him a glance.

"No scheming. No watching your back." He nodded toward street vendors hawking wares. "Crude conditions, but at least it's real."

"Which is why we don't fit." Evelyn braked at a red light. "You have your world. I have mine."

Alexander chuckled. "Funny—I'm finding your world has its charms."

"Could the young master Hamilton tolerate weekly showers?"

"If it's for you," he turned to meet her gaze, "I'd try."

Evelyn nearly hit the gas instead of the brake. "Is your wound infected? Running a fever?"

Alexander grimaced. "Maybe. But I'd never have believed Leonard dared exploit my name for his power plays." His engagement to Lydia had ended long ago.

"Emily will handle it." Evelyn's voice softened. "The villagers just want to keep their homes."

The budget hotel's sign gleamed a faded yellow in sunlight. Alexander frowned upon exiting but held his tongue.

"There's a clothing market across the street." Evelyn pointed to the crowded mall. "Given the circumstances, can you make do?"

Alexander nodded eagerly. His soiled, wrinkled outfit had become unbearable.

At the mall entrance, he froze. "My wallet's still at the clinic."

Evelyn exhaled. "I thought something was wrong."

"This isn't wrong?" Alexander paled. The Hamilton Group CEO, penniless.

Her lips twitched. "I brought cash." She produced folded bills from her pocket. "Consider it repaying you for those clothes."

His eyes darkened. "It's a loan." Stubbornly, he added, "I'll repay you immediately when we return."

Inside the packed mall, Alexander grabbed Evelyn's wrist. "Stay close." He shielded her through the crowd until spotting the merchandise—then abruptly released her.

Rows of men's underwear dangled overhead. Evelyn turned away, ears pinkening.