Chapter 476

If her family lives there, they must not be well-off.

"No." Alexander shook his head. "It's her coworker."

"Coworker?" Sebastian widened his eyes in disbelief. That was the last thing he expected to hear. "But she was so... distressed."

Sebastian had seen how frantic Evelyn had been earlier—her panic had seemed like something only a family emergency could provoke. Yet it was just a coworker? Since when did workplace relationships run so deep?

"They're close friends," Alexander explained, sensing Sebastian's confusion.

Sebastian gave an impressed nod. "She's a damn good friend, then."

Alexander shot him an exasperated look before his tone turned serious again. "You really can’t stay any longer. Harrison can’t drive you back, so you’ll have to take one of the cars. Go pick one from the garage."

Out of everything they'd discussed tonight, this was the best news Sebastian had heard. "Perfect! I’m on it." He grinned, already moving toward the door. But as he passed Alexander, he paused, mischief flickering in his eyes. "One last question."

Alexander arched a brow. "What now?"

Sebastian glanced up the stairs first, ensuring Evelyn wasn’t within earshot, then leaned in. "What’s your wife’s last name?"

Before Alexander could react, Sebastian raised his hands defensively. "Look, you don’t want me calling her ‘gorgeous’ or ‘goddess’ every time I see her, right? Not that I’d mind, but then you can’t accuse me of flirting."

Alexander exhaled sharply, resisting the urge to shove him out the door.

Evelyn’s surname wasn’t exactly a secret. Their marriage announcement would be plastered across every tabloid soon enough.

"Carter," he said flatly.

"Got it!" Sebastian flashed a grin and a thumbs-up before sauntering off to the garage. Moments later, the engine of a sleek black sedan roared to life, and he sped off into the night. Rubbing his stomach contentedly, he decided tonight had been a win. He’d met Evelyn, learned her last name, and—most shockingly—survived a meal cooked by Alexander Kensington himself. Life, for once, felt generous.

Still, as he drove, his mind circled back to that surname. Carter. It didn’t ring any bells among the elite circles he knew. Could she really be from an ordinary background?

Upstairs, Evelyn had changed into comfortable clothes and descended to find the living room quieter. Sebastian’s absence didn’t surprise her—staying would’ve been stranger.

"How is she?" she asked immediately, her fingers twisting the hem of her sweater.

"The rescue team’s wrapping up. All the injured were taken to Mercy General. Identities are still being confirmed—it’s chaotic. But we can go now if you want."

Relief and urgency surged through her. "Let’s go."