Chapter 763

Alexander's slender fingers deftly separated the baby bok choy, the crisp sound of leaves rustling between them. He gripped the kitchen knife, chopping scallions on the cutting board with practiced ease. Though not quite professional chef level, his skills surpassed most home cooks.

Who would've thought the CEO who once avoided kitchens could now handle ingredients so proficiently?

Evelyn rolled up her sleeves to help, but Alexander stopped her. "You just finished a long surgery. Your hands need rest." He gestured to the simmering pot. "I learned how to make noodle soup from Auntie Wu. Try it."

Outside, rain pattered against the window. A steaming bowl of noodles was perfect for chasing away the chill. Her stomach growled in agreement—glucose could replenish energy but couldn't satisfy hunger.

As the noodles boiled, Alexander handed her a cup of red date tea. "Made with your favorite brand. Added longan and goji berries."

The warm cup gradually melted the cold from her fingertips.

When the noodles were served, a golden poached egg rested atop them, the aroma of sesame oil wafting up. Evelyn took a sip of the broth and suddenly looked up. "This isn't Auntie Wu's recipe, is it?"

"I learned it from Auntie Grace." Alexander's ears tinged pink. "Thought you'd prefer your mom's version. But I only mastered the basics. Once I learn the toppings—"

"This is perfect." Evelyn cut him off. "It has your touch."

Alexander lowered his head to eat, but the corners of his mouth lifted slightly. The warmth he'd once taken for granted, he'd circled so far to finally appreciate.

At least it wasn't too late.

......

The next morning, Evelyn nearly overslept. The previous day's surgery had drained her completely. She only stirred when Alexander carried the baby in to wake her.

"You don't have clinic hours this morning. Want to sleep more?" His voice was soft.

Evelyn rubbed her eyes. "I need to check on the post-op patient."

Cold water splashed on her face chased away the drowsiness. She studied Alexander's dark circles in the mirror. "You're the one who should take leave and rest."

Fresh from the shower, water still dripped from his hair. He absently pushed it back. "At my busiest, I worked fifteen-hour days. This is nothing."

It was the first time Evelyn had heard him mention work. She gave him a second glance. "With your stamina, it's a shame you didn't become a doctor."

"Hmm?"

"Doctors need brains, but even more endurance. Especially orthopedic surgeons—they're all fitness buffs." Her eyes skimmed over him. "But at your age now, you should still prioritize rest."

Alexander's expression froze.

After dropping Evelyn at the hospital, he sat in his office, lost in thought. Whispers floated from the secretarial pool:

"Mr. Hamilton looks awful today."

"Did a project go wrong?"

"Seems more like relationship trouble..."

Emily knocked and entered. After her report, she cautiously asked, "Sir, is there an issue with the proposal?"

"No." Alexander massaged his temples. "A friend of mine is having some trouble."

Emily nodded knowingly. "Relationship problems?"