Chapter 481

Evelyn Carter had taken leave to recover from her injuries and to arrange her mother’s funeral.

The fire had sent shockwaves through Veridian City. The buildings, though old and crumbling, had still housed residents. Seven lives were lost, nine were critically injured, and twenty-three suffered minor injuries. The tragedy had drawn the attention of local authorities, who not only extended condolences but launched a strict investigation into the cause of the blaze.

The narrow alleys lacked surveillance cameras, and with the fire breaking out at night while most were asleep, no witnesses could pinpoint its origin. By the time anyone noticed, the flames had already engulfed the area.

Initial speculation pointed to faulty wiring, sparking public outrage. Many blamed the government for neglecting maintenance and renovations in these aging structures.

The incident triggered a chain reaction. Authorities conducted sweeping inspections across relevant departments and initiated repairs in other old neighborhoods. News of the fire dominated headlines for days.

Evelyn couldn’t bear to watch the reports. Having witnessed the disaster firsthand, each mention twisted her stomach. She turned off the television with a heavy sigh. Sophia Grant was on leave, and Evelyn hadn’t stepped into the lab in three days. Her mind was blank, devoid of inspiration. She knew she shouldn’t let emotions derail her work—especially with the Olivella Soap project needing progress—but she couldn’t help it.

"The company will send someone to pay respects at Sophia’s mother’s funeral," Alexander Kensington said.

Working from home, he had barely left Evelyn’s side since the incident. Though the doctors had assured him she only needed rest, his concern manifested in quiet vigilance. Modern technology made remote work seamless, but some meetings had to be postponed.

"Okay," Evelyn nodded. "Is Harrison still with her?" She hadn’t seen him in days.

Alexander confirmed he’d sent him to support Sophia. It was the right call. Sophia had lived with her mother, and now, alone, grief could consume her. Harrison, though reserved, was the perfect companion—capable, unobtrusive, and unlikely to push her when she needed silence.

"Sophia’s apartment burned down," Alexander added. "I had Harrison take her to one of my smaller properties."

"Thank you." Gratitude warmed Evelyn’s voice. He had done so much for her already.

"You’re being ridiculous," he murmured, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "What do you want to eat today?"

She shook her head. Appetite had deserted her.

"No appetite? Then something sour to wake it up? Or sweet, to boost your mood?" He paused, considering. "Hunter’s stew?"

Evelyn couldn’t help but smile at the determination in his eyes. Before she could respond, he cut in, "Don’t say no."

"I wasn’t going to. It sounds perfect." How could she refuse when he was trying so hard?

Satisfied, Alexander brushed a kiss against her cheek. "Wait for me."

He headed to the kitchen, but his phone rang before he could start. Recognizing his assistant’s number, he answered. "Yes?"