Chapter 970

Uncle Dempsey finally relaxed his furrowed brow after hearing about Victor Laurent's situation. Rubbing his hands nervously, he ventured, "If that young man really has feelings for Vivian, could you help set them up?"

Alexander Hamilton swallowed the refusal that had risen to his lips. Vivian was Evelyn Carter's closest friend—making Uncle Dempsey practically family. When it came to Evelyn's loved ones, he strived for perfection.

"I'll do my best," he agreed with a nod.

The older man excitedly rubbed his palms together, promising full cooperation.

Alexander's lips twitched as he recalled Evelyn's accounts of Vivian's disastrous blind dates. Uncle Dempsey's matchmaking instincts left much to be desired.

Evelyn's sigh carried through the phone. "Uncle means well, but he's genuinely impressed with Victor this time."

At least they knew Victor's background—a vast improvement over previous candidates.

Fingering his wedding band, Alexander murmured, "When Baby Chloe grows up, I'll probably be worse than Uncle Dempsey."

The thought of his daughter walking away with another man constricted his chest. For the first time, he truly understood Andrew Anderson's protective instincts.

Not wanting to reopen old wounds, he changed the subject. After confirming Evelyn's wellbeing, he ended the call.

At dawn, Vivian Dempsey burst into the Hamilton estate like a whirlwind, scooping up the toddler building blocks on the floor.

"Miss me, sweetheart?" She spun the giggling child, her voice dripping honey. Tiny hands patted her shoulders as she nuzzled the baby's cheek. "Go enjoy your date—I've got this!"

Evelyn hesitated. "Actually, we arranged some help..."

"Details later!" Vivian waved dismissively. "Unless it's cooking, childcare's my specialty!"

Watching their playful interaction, Evelyn swallowed her words. Let it be a surprise.

Alexander guided his pregnant wife outside. Dressed simply, they headed to the countryside temple to honor the child they'd never held.

The abbot recognized Alexander's solemn escort and led them directly to the memorial hall.

Flickering candlelight bathed the space in ethereal glow. Evelyn's gaze traveled across tiers of eternal flames before settling on one particular lamp.

"This one." Her fingertip grazed the flame, drawing back with a start before smiling through tears. "She's saying hello."

The steady flame suddenly danced in response.

Alexander touched the fire, throat tight. "It never reacts when I come alone. She prefers her mother."

The abbot pressed his palms together. "Parent-child bonds transcend lifetimes. Unfinished connections will reunite."

Evelyn's eyes glistened. "Master, does this mean letting go will bring her back?"

The monk smiled enigmatically.

Understanding, Alexander quietly requested prayer scrolls and ritual paper. The crackle of burning sheets echoed through the silent hall.

As Evelyn fed papers to the flames, her whisper barely carried: "I know it's foolish. But I remember Dad's last words. If she returns...maybe we'll see all who've left us..."

The fire leaped suddenly, casting her profile in dancing shadows.