Chapter 801

Evelyn's fingers trembled slightly.

She stood abruptly. "Vincent won't let this go. I need to warn them!"

Alexander caught her wrist. "Easy. Bianca knows Vincent better than anyone. As for Adrian..." He paused. "Some lessons must be learned firsthand."

"But it's too dangerous!"

"Vincent's a rabid dog now." Alexander's eyes darkened. "The divorce is final, his appeal denied. He'll take it all out on Bianca. If he learns she's remarrying..."

Evelyn's chest tightened. "So Adrian's suggestion..."

"Might be our best move." Alexander tapped the table. "Strike first. Catch him off guard."

Remembering Bianca's concerns, Evelyn frowned. "What if—"

"I have a plan." Alexander cut in, a sharp glint in his eyes.

Noon sunlight glinted off the hot pot restaurant's glass door.

Bianca and Adrian had booked their favorite spot. The Chinese owner boasted authentic Chongqing broth flown in weekly. Bianca had frequented it during grad school until even the owner became a friend.

"Full private booking rates today!" Bianca slapped her card on the counter. "Consider it our engagement favors."

The owner chuckled. "Since when do engagements need favors?" Yet he produced a red silk-wrapped box from under the counter. "My wedding gift to you both."

Inside nestled porcelain figurines—a bride and groom smiling at each other. Bianca traced the glaze when she realized Adrian was gone.

"Adrian?" Her pulse spiked as she scanned the room.

The door swung open. Alexander entered with Adrian close behind. Adrian's damp bangs suggested a lengthy discussion.

"Daddy!" Baby Chloe rushed him in her white tulle dress and flower crown—a tiny Cupid.

Alexander's throat moved. Evelyn squeezed his hand. "How did it go?"

"Better than expected." Alexander kept his voice low. "Young, but clear-headed. Most importantly—" He watched Bianca doodling glasses on the figurine. "He'll compromise for them."

Evelyn hesitated. "But if Vincent—"

"Adrian grew up on a military base." Alexander interjected. "His father's a retired officer."

Understanding dawned on Evelyn.

Steam blurred faces around the bubbling pot. Bianca suddenly raised the figurines. "Look! Don't they resemble us?"

The porcelain couple chimed as they touched.

Departing guests carried the scent of hot pot into daylight. Evelyn squinted. "First lunchtime hot pot engagement party."

"Like it?" Alexander leaned against a lamppost. "We could take notes."

Evelyn smiled. "First meal back home then. But mild broth."

They playfully planned their entire return menu.

"Excuse me." Bianca approached with Adrian, waving her phone. "Which flight? I want him traveling with you."

Adrian adjusted his glasses, lenses flashing white.