Chapter 454

"Grandfather, I'm sorry for being so reckless," Evelyn murmured. She felt ashamed for causing such turmoil within the Hawthorne family over a man.

"Foolish child, everyone has their rebellious phase." Reginald sighed, his voice softening. "Just remember, this will always be your home." He turned his head, coughing lightly into his hand.

The sound made Evelyn jolt upright, her eyes wide with concern. "Are you alright? Should I call the doctor?"

"Don't fuss," he chided, waving her off. "It's nothing a glass of water and some rest won't fix." He reached for the glass on his bedside table, taking a slow sip before setting it down. "See? Perfectly fine."

His gaze lingered on her, thoughtful. "You're leaving soon, aren't you? I suppose I shouldn't worry. You've always been capable." He hesitated before adding, "That Alexander Kensington... he seems decent. But don't rush into anything. Take your time."

When she didn't respond immediately, his expression darkened. "Evelyn... don't tell me you've already—"

She bit her lip, debating whether to confess. But lying to him felt worse. "Grandfather... Alexander and I are already married. We have the certificate."

"What?!" Reginald bolted upright, his face paling. "You—how could you—?"

"It wasn't planned!" she blurted. "We haven't announced it publicly yet. We weren't trying to hide it from you."

"Not announced?" he repeated, his frown deepening.

A heavy silence settled between them. If this had been made public, the Hawthornes would have known immediately.

"Does Donovan know?" Reginald finally asked.

"I... don't think so." If he had, Reginald would have been the first to hear.

"Good." He exhaled sharply, nodding. "You've grown up. Making your own decisions now."

But Evelyn knew that tone—he was furious.

"Grandfather, it was a complicated situation. I never meant to keep it from you."

Back then, she had married Alexander in a haze of impulsiveness. One moment, she needed his help; the next, she had accidentally pulled out a marriage registration form instead of the documents she intended.

Yet, she didn’t regret it.

Reginald closed his eyes, leaning back against the pillows. "What's done is done. Should I demand you divorce him?" He sighed, reopening his eyes. "No. But since it's official, don't hide it any longer. Announce it properly. I won’t let anyone in this family disrespect you."

Evelyn’s chest warmed. He wasn’t happy, but he wouldn’t stand in her way.

"Thank you," she whispered.

He gave a tired wave. "Just promise me one thing."

"Anything."

"Make sure he deserves you."

She smiled. "He does."