Chapter 823

The wind rustled through the cemetery leaves.

Alexander Hamilton and Evelyn Carter stood at a distance, watching Bianca Langley's solitary figure. She bent down to place the urn with such care, as if afraid to disturb the sleeping.

Evelyn noticed Bianca's trembling fingertips as she withdrew her hand. Instinctively, she stepped forward—only for Alexander to gently grasp her wrist.

"Let her have this moment," he murmured.

The century-old cemetery sprawled across the mountainside, white tombstones peeking through pines and cypresses. Mist curled around distant peaks like a painted dreamscape.

Alexander gazed at the view. "This wouldn't be a bad resting place."

Evelyn whirled on him, eyes flashing. "Don't say such things."

Her voice shook. Those days watching him in the ICU were memories she never wanted to relive.

"Forgive me." His lips quirked upward. Her concern warmed him more than any sunlight.

The sky darkened abruptly.

Alexander frowned at the gathering clouds. "I'll fetch an umbrella." He turned—then froze.

Vincent Croix approached through the cemetery gates, white chrysanthemums in hand. Their eyes met. Vincent's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Alexander. What a coincidence."

Alexander didn't move.

When Vincent tried to pass, an immovable arm blocked his path. "How's business, Vincent?" Alexander's voice could have frosted glass.

"Thanks to you." Vincent's jaw clenched. Those sudden financial blows could only have come from the Hamiltons or the Langleys.

Alexander chuckled. "Good. You looked so pale, I thought you might be in trouble."

Vincent lowered his voice. "Must you be so relentless? I survived your attacks." His gaze turned venomous. "Though I hear Dr. Carter still refuses to reconcile?"

Alexander's eyes turned glacial.

In the distance, Bianca rose from the grave. "You'll regret this," Alexander spat before striding away.

Vincent watched him go, fingers crushing the flowers.

Bianca stared at the fresh headstone, her chest too tight to breathe. She clung to composure—until Vincent's figure entered her vision.

"How dare he come..." Her voice fractured.

Evelyn followed her gaze to Vincent's approaching form. Alexander swiftly positioned himself between them, his aura radiating danger.

Vincent ignored the barrier. "Alexander. Dr. Carter." His eyes locked onto Bianca. "You hate me because you think I killed Adrian?"

Bianca's nails bit into her palms. "Not think. Know."

Vincent smiled then—a cruel, knowing twist of lips. "Then tell me, who did he call last before he died?"

The words struck like a dagger through Bianca's heart.