Chapter 882

Evelyn gently caressed her slightly rounded belly, an unconscious smile playing on her lips. "It truly was a beautiful surprise."

This hadn't been part of her life plan, yet this tiny life had become the sole beacon guiding her through the darkness after Bianca's passing.

Sophia's eyes sparkled mischievously as she glanced at Alexander. "Congratulations, Mr. Hamilton. You'd better be a responsible father, or I'll tell Dr. Carter all about your escapades at the billiards hall."

She winked playfully at Evelyn, clearly joking.

Alexander's expression darkened instantly as he blocked Sophia's exit. "Explain yourself before leaving!"

Baby Chloe tilted her head curiously, never having seen Uncle Alexander so flustered.

Evelyn leaned back on the sofa with amused interest, enjoying the spectacle.

The ruthless business tycoon now fidgeted like an awkward teenager—the contrast was utterly entertaining.

Sophia pivoted gracefully on her heels. "No need for alarm, Mr. Hamilton. Everyone knows you only taught girls proper billiards technique there."

The clarification only made things worse.

Evelyn nodded calmly, recalling the scene she'd witnessed at the billiards hall. "That girl learned remarkably fast."

Her tone was as neutral as discussing the weather, devoid of any jealousy.

Alexander's chest tightened with frustration, yet he had no defense, standing there helplessly.

Recognizing Evelyn's emotional obliviousness, Sophia tactfully excused herself after adding Evelyn on WeChat. "Come to me for flowers—I'll give you a ten percent discount."

Baby Chloe waved enthusiastically at the pretty auntie.

Alexander secretly studied Evelyn's reaction, longing for even a hint of jealousy. Instead, she remarked, "Ms. Winston has changed quite a bit. The living room flowers need refreshing—I'd like to buy new ones."

The air grew thick with the unmistakable scent of vinegar.

"Our greenhouse has every variety. The peonies in the garden are blooming beautifully—fresher than any florist's." Alexander desperately wanted to avoid another encounter with Sophia.

This wasn't gratitude—it felt like vengeance.

Evelyn pondered. "Do we have hydrangeas?"

The Hamilton estate indeed lacked them. Not wanting to appear petty, Alexander reluctantly accompanied her to the flower shop.

Fortunately, Sophia was out purchasing inventory, leaving only staff present.

The upscale boutique featured exquisite decor with handcrafted wall ornaments—crude yet heartfelt. Evelyn immediately recognized Sophia's handiwork, warmth flooding her chest.

Alexander mentally noted which decorations held her gaze longest.

Departing with an armful of vibrant green hydrangeas, Evelyn carried a variety with unusually straight stems.

Alexander frowned. "You like these?"

He remembered Evelyn always preferred baby's breath.

"Emily adores them." Her voice softened. "Her school's nearby—we can visit her."

Since becoming pregnant, she cherished family more deeply. The shadow of her previous miscarriage made her especially cautious this time.

Alexander immediately changed course. "Emily's school has excellent academics—great for Baby Chloe's early exposure."

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "Your alma mater ranks higher. How ironic coming from you. Besides, she's barely formed yet."

The elite's humblebrags were always so unpretentious.

"Does Emily have a proper vase?" Alexander changed subjects. "Hydrangeas need deep water."

"She uses repurposed bottles." Evelyn's eyes warmed. "She's ingenious—always creates perfect vessels. Mass-produced vases lack soul."

"She's loved beautiful trinkets since childhood, but money was tight with Dad raising us alone. Emily would claim not to like hair clips just to save pennies."

The florist visit had reminded Evelyn of her sister.

During medical school, she'd promised Emily a gift for good grades. When her sister ranked top ten, Evelyn took her shopping—where Emily became transfixed by a florist's window display.

Behind the glass sat a bouquet of emerald hydrangeas.

Though a single stem cost a week's allowance, seeing Emily's radiant eyes, Evelyn bought it without hesitation.

More than her own happiness, she wanted joy for those she loved.