Chapter 878

Her reflection in the glass display case revealed the same ethereal beauty, yet now with a newfound vitality—like a painted maiden suddenly gifted with a soul.

Vivian Dempsey pulled Evelyn Carter aside for a long heart-to-heart, only parting when the music from downstairs grew too loud to ignore.

Alexander Hamilton stood guard at the ballroom entrance as promised. His icy demeanor deterred every curious guest from asking about the baby's origins. Even a few bold relatives froze under his sharp gaze.

From the second-floor balcony, Evelyn watched the scene unfold, her lips curving into an unconscious smile.

Baby Chloe, adorned with a diamond-studded tiara, looked every bit the little princess surrounded by admirers. Evelyn eyed the glittering crown under the chandelier's glow and whispered during the cake-cutting, "Don't tell me this is your doing again?"

Alexander steadied the baby's tiny hand on the cake knife and leaned close. "Not this time. Aunt Teresa and Uncle Anthony had it custom-made."

Evelyn bit back her words at the sight of the heavy tiara. Had it been her own parents' gift, she'd have protested. But thinking of the Taylors' intentions, she merely sighed.

The cake topper depicted an uncannily lifelike figurine of a happy family of three. Evelyn stared at the delicate edible sculpture, hesitating to take a bite.

"Shall I taste it first?" Alexander teased, wiggling frosting-coated fingers.

She speared the chocolate figurine and offered it to him. He slowly closed his lips around the fork, sweetness blooming on his tongue—though it paled beside the warmth spreading through his chest.

Baby Chloe tugged impatiently at Evelyn's dress until she received her own figurine. Evelyn quickly popped the last piece into her mouth before the toddler could claim it too.

From across the room, Vincent Wilson elbowed his friend excitedly. "See that? Sharing a fork! Told you Alex would win her back eventually!"

His friend gave him a pitying look. "Alex is about to remarry, while you're still single. Getting another lecture from the old man tonight?" Vincent's grin vanished instantly.

As the party wound down, Alexander casually asked Vincent, "Your brother didn't come today?"

Vincent smirked. "Checking up on him?" At Alexander's warning glance, he straightened. "Gregory's at an academic lecture. Sent gifts though."

Alexander's gaze lingered on an antique book set in the corner, his eyes darkening. What lecture could possibly be scheduled for today? Clearly an intentional absence. The man might have stepped aside, but his feelings hadn't entirely retreated.

"Alex," Vincent shook his head, "you're completely wrapped around her finger. Take my advice—start stashing some emergency cash."

"If only she'd agree to manage my finances." Alexander's tone carried quiet frustration. Even his will had met with Evelyn's firm refusal—she wanted no part of Hamilton Group.

Vincent tried to slip away but froze when Alexander called after him: "What did you just call Evelyn?"

"S-sis... sister-in-law?" Vincent's back prickled with cold sweat.

Amusement glinted in Alexander's eyes. "Don't say it to her face. Your sister-in-law... dislikes it." The last three words came out softly, like honey melting between his teeth.