Chapter 963

Evelyn Carter had specifically requested her orange-glazed ribs to be well-done. The thick steak glistened under the lights, coated in a rich citrus sauce.

Alexander Hamilton's slender fingers gripped the knife and fork with practiced elegance. He methodically sliced the steak into uniform pieces, the blade gliding through the meat without a sound.

"Here you go." He gently pushed the plate toward Evelyn.

Victor Laurent stared in awe. This wasn't just steak-cutting—it was a masterclass in precision craftsmanship.

"Was it your medical team that Elder Thompson mentioned?" Victor blurted out. "I heard all the village investments and construction projects were spearheaded by that doctor's husband."

Evelyn lowered her head, spearing a piece of steak as if she hadn't heard.

Alexander's lips curved slightly. "The villagers took good care of us, especially the two children who helped tremendously. Giving back was only natural."

"That's quite the generous payback." Victor chuckled. "An investment that size could dam a river."

Vivian Dempsey's stiletto came down hard on Victor's foot.

"Gah—" He sucked in a sharp breath, nearly leaping from his chair.

Alexander feigned concern. "Are you unwell, Mr. Laurent? Evelyn could examine you."

"It's nothing," Victor gritted out. "Just... overwhelmed by tasting hometown flavors again."

Vivian arched a brow. "Which dish here can't you get abroad?"

"Same ingredients, different essence." Victor's gaze burned into her. "Like dating—local tastes are superior."

She completely missed his implication. "Free tomorrow? Join me for drinks. Evelyn's abstaining, Alexander's driving—that leaves you."

Alexander rose smoothly. "We'll take our leave."

In the car, he broke the silence. "Victor's in love with Vivian."

"What?" Evelyn nearly choked. "They haven't seen each other in ten years!"

"His eyes tell a different story." Alexander turned the steering wheel. "Like a long-game predator."

Evelyn frowned. "They were practically siblings. Vivian even collected love letters for him—he always glared at her suitors."

"Exactly the problem." Alexander's low laugh held knowing. "Since when do brothers seethe over their sister's admirers?"

Evelyn froze. The rearview mirror reflected Alexander's ocean-deep gaze.

Suddenly, those "accidentally" misplaced letters made sense. Those suspiciously timed coincidences placing Victor near Vivian.

Some seeds were planted long before anyone noticed the roots.