Chapter 917

The scorching sun blazed overhead as Alexander Hamilton approached swiftly, holding a black parasol that cast a steady shade over Evelyn Carter's head.

"Olivia mentioned you'd be leaving work early today," he said in a low voice, his gaze lingering on her slightly pale face.

Evelyn arched a brow. "Did you bribe Olivia to spy on me?"

"She’s just concerned about you." Alexander chuckled, his hand hovering lightly behind her waist. "Like I am."

They walked side by side toward the parking lot. The parasol wasn’t large, leaving half of Alexander’s shoulder exposed to the sun. His shirt soon became damp with sweat. Evelyn noticed and subtly shifted closer to him.

The car’s air conditioning was set to a cool temperature. As soon as Evelyn settled into the back seat, Alexander asked, "Is the temperature comfortable?"

Staring at the scenery flashing by outside the window, she suddenly spoke. "Aren’t you curious about what happened at the hospital?"

Alexander glanced at her through the rearview mirror. "I only want to know if you need help."

Her fingers absently traced the seatbelt. Sunlight streamed through the window, casting delicate shadows on her lashes.

"Let’s talk about it at home," she murmured.

Margaret Hamilton and Grace Anderson were in the living room doing crafts when they saw the couple return early. Their eyes lit up simultaneously.

"Evelyn!" Grace rushed forward, pressing her palm to her daughter’s forehead. "Are you feeling unwell?"

Even Baby Chloe abandoned her toys, toddling over to cling to Evelyn’s leg.

"I’m fine." Evelyn bent down to pick up the child, planting a kiss on her soft cheek. "The dean gave me the day off."

Margaret shot a sharp look at Alexander, who shrugged helplessly.

"Mom, I’d love some of your peanut paste," Evelyn said, deftly changing the subject.

Grace immediately headed for the kitchen. "I’ll make it right now. Go take a warm bath and change into something comfortable."

Margaret took the baby and glared at her son. "What are you standing around for? Go draw Evelyn’s bath!"

Steam filled the bathroom. Standing in front of the wardrobe, Evelyn hesitated—none of her loungewear seemed to fit anymore.

"This one should work," she muttered, pulling out a loose linen dress, only to turn and collide with a solid chest.

Alexander had appeared behind her without a sound, holding a glass of lemon water.

"Be careful not to catch a chill," he said, swiftly wrapping a shawl around her, his gaze carefully restrained as it lingered on her face.

Her ears warmed as she clutched her clothes and retreated into the bathroom. By the time she emerged in her nightgown, Alexander was no longer in the bedroom.

A cup of warm honey water sat on the nightstand, next to a neatly folded thin blanket.

The sweet aroma of peanut paste wafted up from downstairs. Grace immediately served her a full bowl when she descended.

"Take your time. There’s more in the pot."

Evelyn took small sips, the sweet, sticky flavor melting on her tongue. Alexander sat across from her, his gaze tender.

"What would you like for dinner?" Grace asked.

"Mom, are you trying to fatten me up?" Evelyn laughed, shaking her head. "I’ll rest for a bit and eat when I’m hungry."

As she climbed the stairs, she overheard Margaret scolding Alexander in a hushed tone: "You could stand to be more proactive!"

Evelyn pressed her lips together to suppress a smile and quietly closed the door.