Chapter 98

Years of independence had shaped Evelyn into someone who relied on no one but herself. When she was still with Dominic, his work consumed him entirely. Even during meals, he would often leave before she finished eating. At first, Evelyn hadn’t minded, but over time, the loneliness gnawed at her.

Now, with Alexander, everything was different.

She felt cherished.

Noticing Evelyn hadn’t touched her plate, Alexander leaned forward. "Something wrong? The food not to your taste?" He had ordered a variety of dishes, wanting her to have options. "Tell me what you’d prefer instead."

Evelyn exhaled softly, her lips curving into a small smile. "It’s not about the food. It’s about who I’m sharing it with." She picked up her fork, spearing a bite and lifting it toward him. "Here, try this."

Alexander blinked, momentarily caught off guard, but then his expression softened. He accepted the offering, his gaze never leaving hers.

After a quiet moment, Evelyn set her fork down. "About what you asked me earlier…" She hesitated, then met his eyes. "I can’t say I love you yet. But that doesn’t mean I don’t care. I just need more time."

Alexander hadn’t expected her to address it so seriously. It felt almost clinical—like they were negotiating terms rather than discussing emotions.

This woman…

When he didn’t respond, Evelyn frowned. "I don’t want to lie to you. You deserve honesty."

"I know," Alexander murmured, his voice warm. "I told you—I’m not rushing you." The sincerity in his eyes was undeniable.

Relieved, Evelyn still couldn’t shake one lingering question. "Earlier, you said…" She swallowed. "Why do you love me?"

Silence settled between them, heavy yet comfortable. Evelyn searched his face, her confusion evident. Alexander’s dark eyes held depths she couldn’t decipher—like they carried secrets and stories untold.

Gently, he cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing her skin. "Everything," he said simply.

Her pulse raced, her breath hitching. The answer was vague, yet she believed him without question. Still, the intensity left her dizzy.

She covered his hand with hers, squeezing lightly. "I promise," she whispered, "I’ll love you just as fiercely one day."

Alexander smiled—soft, reassuring.

After dinner, Evelyn moved to clear the table, but Alexander was faster. He gathered the dishes with practiced ease, loading them into the dishwasher before she could protest.

"I told you," he said, turning to her, "the kitchen is my domain."

"And I told you," Evelyn countered, "I’m not some delicate princess."

Alexander pulled her close, his arms wrapping around her waist. His lips brushed her forehead as he murmured, "You’re my princess. The most precious thing in my world."

Then, taking her hand, he led her to the living room. "Wait here."

He disappeared into his study, returning moments later with a folder. Handing it to her, he said, "Take a look."