Chapter 950

Mrs. Grant's lips twisted into a bitter smile. "He's too ashamed to get divorced. He'd rather suffer than lose face."

Marriage was never just between two people. Divorce was even more complicated. When both families were equally powerful, the tug-of-war became unbearable.

Her eyes reddened, voice trembling. "Before the wedding, my mother kept pushing me to marry. Now that she's seen my in-laws' true colors, she finally supports the divorce. But the baby is still so young..."

"Having second thoughts?" Evelyn asked gently. "Need a ride home? We're free this afternoon."

The shopping list was complete. Only naptime remained for little Chloe.

Mrs. Grant fidgeted with her fingers. "Don't trouble yourselves. Any intersection will do."

Alexander glanced at her through the rearview mirror. "Listen to Dr. Carter."

A simple statement that conveyed his stance while easing her hesitation.

Only then did she provide her parents' address, gazing at them wistfully. "You two are so loving, Dr. Carter. Still affectionate even with a second baby. I'll never have that blessing."

Evelyn didn't bother explaining their complicated history. "Marriage isn't mandatory. Children are the real treasures."

Alexander silently swallowed his frustration. Wasn't he currently relying on their daughter to stay relevant?

At the mention of children, Mrs. Grant's expression softened slightly, a fragile smile breaking through her tear-streaked face.

Before parting, Evelyn offered comforting words. To everyone's surprise, Alexander handed over a business card. "Call this lawyer. Mention my name."

Mrs. Grant hesitated. "But..."

Years of pregnancy and childcare had drained her savings. A top attorney's fees were beyond reach.

"He takes pro bono cases annually," Alexander said evenly. "If his quota's full, others at the firm will help."

Grateful tears welled as she watched their car disappear before turning away.

Evelyn studied Alexander thoughtfully.

"What?" He instantly noticed her gaze.

"Didn't expect you to help," she murmured. "Thought you found her troublesome."

The old Alexander would have. His eyes remained on the road. "Don't judge others until you've walked their path. I helped because..."

His voice unexpectedly gentled.

"...I finally understood how deeply my 'fair' divorce terms hurt you. That realization came far too late."

Evelyn blinked, then smiled softly. "Helping others is what matters."

Warm silence filled the car.

The peace shattered upon returning home—another parenting debate erupted.

This time, the trigger was a call from the yoga instructor.

With prenatal classes ending, Evelyn considered signing up for fetal education. The instructor enthusiastically pitched music, bilingual courses, even early-learning programs.

"Chloe's introductory classes are finishing soon. Next we recommend art, coding..." The teacher prattled on.

Evelyn's scalp prickled. Were all these activities appropriate for such a young child?

Hesitantly hanging up, she relayed the conversation.

Alexander frowned as if contemplating national security. "Let's recreate the First Birthday Tradition for her."

"Now?" Evelyn hesitated. "She's already past her first birthday."

"Doesn't matter." His tone brooked no argument. "Our daughter deserves every tradition others have."