Chapter 266

Evelyn was lost in contemplation when Alexander arrived home unnoticed. The setting sun cast golden rays through the windows, illuminating her slender legs stretched across the sofa. A half-eaten bag of chips rested in one hand while another piece hovered near her parted lips.

Though the television played softly in the background, Evelyn's unfocused gaze betrayed her distraction. She didn't register Alexander's approach until he knelt before her, his lips parting expectantly.

Snapping back to reality, Evelyn reacted with lightning speed. She popped the chip into her mouth with a triumphant grin. "Too slow, darling! Mmm, delicious!"

Her laughter filled the room, but Alexander had other plans. In one fluid motion, he captured her lips, stealing the remaining half of the snack with a playful bite. Not content with just the chip, he traced the salty crumbs at the corner of her mouth with his tongue. "Even better this way," he murmured.

Evelyn's cheeks flushed at her husband's boldness. Before she could protest, Alexander swept her into his arms, settling her comfortably on his lap. "Tell me, my love," he whispered against her temple, "what had you so preoccupied? Surely you were thinking of me?"

'This man's ego knows no bounds,' Evelyn thought, tightening her arms around his neck in mock fear. "And if I wasn't? Would you drop me right here?"

"Never," Alexander promised, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "But I'd need to understand why my wife's thoughts wander when I think of nothing but her."

Evelyn rolled her eyes at his smooth words. "I do think of you," she admitted, "but other matters demand attention too. Isabella and I lunched today - we're planning a beach trip before winter sets in."

Alexander nodded approvingly. "Victoria mentioned submitting your competition entry. Preliminary results should arrive after our return." His fingers traced idle patterns on her arm. "Then you can focus on your new project with peace of mind."

"You remembered?" Evelyn's eyes sparkled with surprise.

"How could I forget?" He raised an eyebrow. "Already have fresh inspiration?"

"Just the beginnings of an idea," she confessed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "It's experimental, but I want to try something different."

Alexander's smile held nothing but encouragement. "Take the risk. Even if it fails, the experience will be valuable."

"My brilliant husband," Evelyn sighed, resting her head against his shoulder. "Great minds truly think alike."

Alexander's grip tightened slightly. "Say that again," he demanded, his voice suddenly rough.

"Great minds think alike?" Evelyn repeated, confused.

"Before that," he insisted, turning her face toward his. The intensity in his gaze made her pulse quicken.

Evelyn felt heat creeping up her neck as realization dawned. "My... brilliant husband?" she whispered, suddenly breathless.

Alexander's answering smile could have melted glaciers. "That's the one." His lips found hers again, sealing the words between them like a promise.