Chapter 687

Alexander's fingers tapped lightly on the steering wheel.

"I researched extensively before coming here, but the reality feels different," he said, watching the scenery flash by. "This place seems forgotten by time, yet stubbornly alive."

Evelyn glanced at him. "I didn't expect such reflections from the Hamilton Group CEO."

"People change." Alexander chuckled. "Just as I never imagined sitting with you on a rural backroad like this."

Dark clouds loomed in the distance, threatening rain.

Vendors at the temple fair scrambled to erect rain covers while visitors remained undeterred. A little girl dashed past their car clutching candied hawthorns, her laughter ringing clear.

"The people here have remarkable resilience," Evelyn observed. "Despite hardships, they always find joy."

Alexander studied her profile. "Is that why you chose to return to such a place?"

"Perhaps." She evaded the question. "It feels real here."

Lightning split the sky, followed by fat raindrops pelting the windshield.

"Should we find shelter?" Alexander slowed the car.

Evelyn pointed to a roadside teahouse. "Let's go there."

The proprietress welcomed them warmly with hot towels. Several rain-dodging patrons already occupied tables, the air fragrant with tea.

Alexander ordered Longjing tea, pouring Evelyn a steaming cup.

"Careful, it's hot." His fingers lingered on the rim.

Outside, a young couple shared an umbrella. The girl's laughter carried through the rain as her partner shielded her from the storm.

Alexander tracked their retreating figures. "Youth is wasted on the young."

"The mighty CEO envies that?" Evelyn sipped her tea.

"I was that age once." He rotated his cup. "Just didn't know its value then."

Evelyn remained silent as rain drummed the eaves rhythmically.

A delivery scooter sped past, splashing a pedestrian's trousers before vanishing into the downpour.

"My father was like that," Evelyn said suddenly. "Rain or shine, he'd go out to work."

Alexander listened quietly.

"One winter was particularly harsh. He came home covered in ice crystals." Her voice softened. "Mother and I spent hours thawing him with hot towels."

The rain eased, revealing a sliver of light on the horizon.

"Let's head back," Alexander said abruptly.

Evelyn looked up. "Your ankle—"

"Much better." He stood. "The village needs you more."

They took turns driving home. Alexander insisted Evelyn rest, covering most of the distance himself.

When they reached the village entrance, night had fallen completely.

"Strange." Evelyn rolled down her window. "Why so quiet?"

The usually bustling lanes stood empty, only faint yellow light seeping through windows. Even the dogs were silent.

Alexander killed the engine, scanning their surroundings warily. "We're expected."

Shadows shifted between swaying trees, dark figures flickering at the periphery.

Evelyn's grip tightened on the door handle. "Are they here for us?"

"No." Alexander's voice turned glacial. "They're here for me."

From the darkness came the metallic clink of steel meeting steel.