Chapter 733

Alexander regretted his words the moment they left his lips.

The Ragdoll cat nestled lazily in Evelyn's arms, its sapphire-blue eyes half-lidded, tail flicking idly.

"That's not what I meant," he cleared his throat. "Cats don't need constant companionship, but they do need affection."

He reached out to scratch under the cat's chin.

The feline rolled over blissfully before burrowing back into Evelyn's embrace. Alexander made a mental note to give it extra treats tonight.

"Remember our promise at the temple?" he asked casually. "You agreed to name it."

A name meant connection.

Alexander studied Evelyn's profile, his Adam's apple bobbing. Even co-parenting this cat gave him reason to remain in her life.

Evelyn frowned. "I assumed Aunt Margaret already named it."

"Mimi?" she ventured.

Alexander arched an eyebrow. "That's it?"

"Your turn then."

"You named White Coat so creatively, but for this—"

"Stethoscope?" Evelyn's eyes lit up. "Sphygmomanometer? Scalpel?"

His mouth twitched. "...Mimi it is."

He called softly. The Ragdoll flicked its tail and turned away with regal disdain.

Evelyn suppressed a laugh. "Seems it disagrees."

Alexander's gaze softened. "Since I survived against the odds, how about 'Phoenix'? Symbolizing rebirth—fitting for your profession."

Her fingers stroked the silken fur, suddenly recalling the keychain on Emily's keys.

"Let's call it Peanut," she murmured. "See how its tail tip resembles a peanut shell? And 'good fortune' makes a nice meaning."

Alexander whispered, "Peanut."

"Meow~" The cat nuzzled Evelyn's palm.

Joy rippled through his eyes. "I'll claim half credit for this name."

Aunt Margaret and Grace praised the choice enthusiastically. Lily and Lotus circled the cat, their laughter tinkling like wind chimes.

Grace's eyes suddenly reddened. "Back home, we'd scatter peanuts on newlyweds' beds..."

Her voice trailed off.

The living room air thickened. Margaret shot her son a reproachful look.

Alexander's throat tightened as he immediately looked to Evelyn.

"Mom," Evelyn grasped Grace's hand, "I've been craving your peanut paste dessert."

Grace dabbed her eyes. "I'll make it tonight."

Margaret leaned in. "I've heard that dessert requires real skill?"

"Practice makes perfect." Grace's voice caught, remembering how her late husband had loved her version. Fresh tears welled.

Evelyn squeezed her mother's hand.

Alexander spoke suddenly, "Why not invite Uncle Andrew's family and Vivian for dinner? I've been cooped up too long—need some activity."

Rising with his cane, his gaze brushed Evelyn.

The suggestion was met with immediate enthusiasm. After so much gloom, they needed this gathering like sunlight through storm clouds.

By evening, aromatic steam filled the kitchen. Grace's peanut paste had just finished when Lily and her brother clustered eagerly nearby.

More surprising was Alexander. Leaning on his cane, he'd prepared a perfect sweet-and-sour fish.

Margaret gasped. "When did you learn this?"

"From Auntie Wu." He set the dish before Evelyn, voice tender. "I remembered it's your favorite."