Evelyn looked at Alexander.

He had only mentioned that Sophia once saved his life.

She never expected it was this kind of life-saving grace.

No wonder he always showed her such leniency.

Alexander tightened his grip on her hand. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought this up."

He looked at Sophia, his voice low. "A childhood promise is still a promise. I originally planned to never marry. To be there for you whenever you needed me. But then I met Evelyn."

He paused. "I have a marriage pact with her. I fell in love with her. I've done a lot of thinking lately."

His tone was firm. "Between you and her, I must choose. I choose her."

"Miss Watson, I won't be visiting again. I will continue covering your medical expenses. You can direct any requests to the hospital director. I will try to fulfill any need, except for my companionship."

Sophia's face instantly turned pale.

Alexander didn't linger. He took Evelyn's hand and turned to leave.

Sophia's heart-wrenching sobs echoed behind them.

Alexander didn't look back.

Evelyn held his hand tightly.

His coldness toward another was his depth of feeling for her.

As long as he didn't let go, she wouldn't either.

They got in the car and drove away.

Alexander's phone kept ringing.

He glanced at it and blocked Sophia's number directly.

Soon, the hospital director called. "Mr. Vance, Miss Watson is threatening suicide again!"

Alexander's voice was calm. "She is your patient. I am not a doctor."

The director was stunned.

Alexander looked straight ahead. "Do not contact me about this again."

"O-okay."

The director clearly hadn't expected such finality.

Evelyn rode home with him in silence.

They went to check on Eleanor first.

Seeing she was sleeping peacefully, they felt reassured and returned to their room.

Evelyn was heading for the guest bedroom when Alexander stopped her.

He looked at her deeply. "Evelyn, stay with me tonight."

Her heart raced.

She understood his meaning.

Though shy, she nodded. "Okay."

Blushing, she entered his room.

The moment the door closed, he embraced her from behind.

Evelyn stiffened slightly.

He just held her tightly, burying his face in her neck.

He made no further move.

She relaxed.

She heard his soft laugh. "Evelyn, I'm very happy today."

Evelyn smiled too.

She hadn't expected him to be so decisive.

He had ended things before she even had to ask.

This was good.

She returned his embrace. "I'm happy too."

That night, they slept in each other's arms.

She could feel his restraint.

She wasn't truly ready yet.

Taking it slow was perfect.

...

The next morning.

Elder Howard came to have breakfast with Eleanor.

Hearing that Alexander and Evelyn were still asleep, Eleanor beamed.

Fiona had told her early that they entered the same room last night.

She was overjoyed.

Elder Howard frowned. "Elder sister, isn't it disrespectful for the younger generation to sleep this late? Do they usually show you proper respect?"

He was concerned about Evelyn neglecting Eleanor.

Eleanor immediately waved her hand. "What's wrong with young people sleeping in? My granddaughter-in-law is wonderful! She's filial, kind, and protects Alexander. I couldn't be more pleased!"

Elder Howard felt relieved. "Filial piety is good. It's just her background is somewhat lacking."

Eleanor was displeased. "What's lacking about it?"

"I heard she's just from an ordinary family in San Francisco?" Elder Howard sighed. "The illegitimate daughter of the main family is about to marry into the Truman family. If the Trumans support the main family, Alexander will be under great pressure. We can't hope for one of the Five Great Families of New York, but even a first-tier family would be better…"

Eleanor knew he meant well, but she still scolded him. "Don't you dare say that in front of my granddaughter-in-law! Nobody is perfect. She has everything else, so what if her background is lacking?"

Elder Howard shook his head and sighed.

A marriage alliance is also a form of support.

Evelyn's background was indeed a pity…

As they spoke, Evelyn and Alexander emerged from the bedroom.

Fiona came in from outside and handed Evelyn a box. "Madam, Mr. Valentine sent this over first thing this morning."

Evelyn looked at the box.

It bore the logo of a luxury jewelry brand.

Just yesterday, someone said jewelry could be used to appease the younger generation.

Today, Mr. Valentine sent some.

Could it really be a coincidence?