Chapter 743

Evelyn Carter had been immersed in medical literature lately, her thoughts growing increasingly analytical. She stared at the date on the calendar, completely oblivious to its special significance.

"Does that mean you won’t be able to spend New Year’s with Aunt Margaret?" she suddenly asked, looking up.

The moment the words left her mouth, she remembered her own situation and hesitated. "This timing really isn’t ideal. It feels wrong to leave the elders alone at home for the holidays while we go off traveling. And Emily—if we don’t take her, she’ll throw a fit."

Alexander Hamilton watched the thoughtful curve of her profile, warmth flooding his chest. He wished time could freeze in this moment forever.

"Don’t worry, they won’t be alone," Alexander said with a light chuckle. "I arranged a vacation in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand for Mother and Aunt Grace. Emily can join them too. If we stayed, we’d just be sitting in an empty house."

Evelyn blinked in surprise. He really had been making a lot of arrangements lately—even the vacation plans were this thorough.

She was about to agree when another concern surfaced. "My mother has never been abroad before, and she doesn’t speak the language..."

"Uncle Andrew and Aunt Grace will be going with them," Alexander cut in, dispelling her worry. "They can look out for each other."

That settled it—Evelyn was fully reassured.

Before their departure, Evelyn packed meticulously, hesitating before finally sending Bianca Langley a message. But the text vanished into the void, not even triggering a read receipt.

Bianca seemed to have evaporated from the world. If not for the occasional updates about the Langley family in financial news, Evelyn might have suspected something terrible had happened.

She’s probably trying to keep Vincent Croix completely in the dark. Evelyn sighed softly and turned her attention back to checking the baby supplies. Three of their five suitcases were stuffed with infant essentials.

Alexander insisted his injuries had fully healed and personally handled the luggage. From check-in to loading the car, he wouldn’t let Evelyn lift a finger.

The local branch manager, alarmed by the sudden visit from the CEO, rushed to the airport in person—only to find the great Mr. Hamilton preoccupied with hauling bags. The sight made him even more nervous.

"Mr. Hamilton, are you sure you don’t need to inspect our operations?" the manager asked for the third time.

Alexander didn’t look up. "Last year’s performance was solid. Keep it up."

The manager turned to Evelyn, who seemed more approachable. "Mrs. Hamilton, the hotel and private car are all arranged. Would you like a local guide? My assistant could double as one."

Evelyn didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. "Really, that’s unnecessary. We’re just here to relax."

The manager’s eyes lit with understanding. "Ah, I see—an incognito inspection." He glanced at the stroller and lowered his voice. "Don’t worry, Mrs. Hamilton. The child’s matter will stay confidential."

Evelyn sighed. "Could you not call me 'Mrs. Hamilton'?"

"Of course, Madam."

Alexander reappeared just then, pulling the manager aside. When they returned, the man promptly switched to addressing her as "Miss Carter."

On the road, Evelyn couldn’t resist asking, "What did you say to him?"

"I told him we’re here for our honeymoon," Alexander replied without batting an eye.

Evelyn’s eyes widened. "Aren’t you worried about rumors spreading?"

"Better than having them follow us around 24/7," Alexander said calmly. "This way, they’ll leave us alone."

Evelyn had no rebuttal. The excuse was absurd, but undeniably effective.

The southern town had a mild, pleasant climate. At dusk, they strolled down the street pushing the stroller and ducked into a casual noodle shop.

The baby watched with fascination as the adults ate. Evelyn said to the owner, "One more bowl of plain rice noodles, no seasoning."

The owner caught on immediately. "For the little one, right? I’ll bring a small complimentary portion."

"Thank you," Evelyn smiled.