Chapter 966

Evelyn Carter gazed at the ice cubes swirling in her glass, fingertips lightly tapping the crystal surface. She hadn't intended to meddle in Vivian Dempsey's love life, but seeing her best friend agonize over blind dates made her impulsively mention Victor Laurent's name.

Regret instantly flooded her.

"Sorry." Evelyn set down her drink, leaving a ring of condensation on the table. "I shouldn't interfere."

Vivian burst out laughing and pinched her cheek. "Since when does Dr. Carter stand on ceremony? Keep this up, and I'll tell Alexander exactly how many little miracles you're carrying."

Warm summer air drifted across the terrace. Evelyn's baby bump was unmistakable now, the flowing nightgown unable to conceal its gentle curve.

"Stop." She gently swatted Vivian's hand away. "These two are particularly active today. Their kicks are bruising my ribs."

Alexander Hamilton never missed his nightly ritual of massaging her swollen ankles, no matter how late he worked. The sight of those elegant fingers carefully avoiding her stretch marks always made her heart flutter.

Vivian swirled her wine before turning serious. "You're right though. Victor is actually a decent option."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "What changed your mind?"

"Because..." Vivian downed her drink in one gulp. "I finally understand why you refuse to remarry Alexander."

Starlight caught in Evelyn's lashes, casting delicate shadows. Her whisper blended with the city's distant glow. "How is what we have now any different from being married?"

"Then why not just—"

"Because that certificate means nothing to me." Evelyn cut her off. "A marriage license is just a gilded cage—easy to enter, impossible to escape. I just want to breathe."

Vivian nearly dropped her glass. "What did Alexander do now?"

"He's perfect." Evelyn's hand drifted over her belly, lips curving unconsciously. "Terrifyingly perfect."

Behind the floor-to-ceiling windows, Alexander stood frozen with their sleeping daughter. The toddler nuzzled his shoulder, murmuring drowsily, "Daddy..."

He took a steadying breath and carried her toward the terrace.

"Someone misses her mommy." His voice was softer than the night breeze.

Evelyn turned. Moonlight etched his profile in silver. In that moment, she realized some shackles had been fastened long ago—without either of them noticing.