Chapter 746

Alexander Hamilton watched the retreating figure of the failed flirt, his tense shoulders finally relaxing.

Evelyn Carter hadn't given the brief encounter a second thought. She glanced at the sky, noticing how the southern town's dusk carried a gentler warmth than expected.

Adjusting the stroller's sunshade to shield Baby Chloe from the evening breeze, she said, "Let's head back."

The resort hotel was just a twenty-minute walk away.

"Together," Alexander immediately responded.

He hadn't come for sightseeing. Where Evelyn went, he followed.

Bathed in sunset hues, the trio walked side by side—a picture-perfect family returning from an outing.

The hotel neighbored a bustling pedestrian street, its neon lights painting the avenue in vibrant colors. The night market teemed with couples and groups of giggling girlfriends.

"This way?" Alexander gestured toward the lively stalls. "We can pick up gifts for Mom and Aunt Margaret."

Evelyn turned the stroller. "Good idea."

She began counting on her fingers. "Emily and Vivian's gifts first. Then Lily and Lotus, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson..."

Alexander chuckled as she listed recipients. "We might need another suitcase."

"You choose, I'll carry," he offered. "Your taste is impeccable—Mom will love whatever you pick."

Evelyn eyed him curiously. "Only getting something for Aunt Margaret?"

After a pause, he ventured, "Olivia?"

"Just local snacks—she loves food. Anyone else?"

"Your dean and Natalie?"

"Yes, we might need the dean's help later."

Alexander cleared his throat tentatively. "Should we...get something for Gregory too? He looked after you before."

Evelyn raised an eyebrow, suddenly understanding.

"Let's get gifts for both Wilson brothers then," she said leisurely. "Vincent always calls you 'Big Bro Hamilton'—wouldn't be fair otherwise. Any other friends to include?"

He nearly nodded before catching himself. "No. Grown men can buy their own things."

Evelyn found his reaction odd but didn't dwell on it.

Baby Chloe giggled, mesmerized by the market's colorful lights. Alexander bought a plush toy and placed it in her stroller with the grace of a seasoned father. The baby reached for it, beaming.

Stepping back to make way, Evelyn suddenly felt her foot meet resistance.

"Sorry, I—"

Her apology froze as she recognized the face before her.

Alexander moved protectively forward, then stiffened at the sight.

Speak of the devil indeed.

Gregory Wilson stood before them, his gaze shifting between the three before settling on the stroller. "Evelyn, Mr. Hamilton. What a coincidence. Vacationing?"

"Yes," Evelyn replied politely. "You?"

"Medical symposium." His eyes strayed to the stroller again. "This is...?"

"My daughter," Alexander declared.

Evelyn's eyes widened.

"Goddaughter counts," he added innocently.

Evelyn massaged her temples. "Miss Langley hasn't agreed yet."

"She will." Alexander sounded utterly confident.

Gregory stood awkwardly, suddenly feeling like an outsider.

Evelyn smoothly changed topics. "Have you decided to practice here permanently?"

"Still considering," Gregory admitted. "This trip's for independent research. Anesthesiology requires continuous learning."

Her eyes brightened. "Is the forum open to public?"

"You can join me," he offered quickly. "The organizers allow guests."