Maybe A Family Isn't So Impossible

Benjamin stated plainly, "Following Alexander's car accident years ago, he underwent major leg surgery. The muscle and nerve damage was extensive. If you commit to massaging him daily, it could significantly aid his recovery. But consistency is critical. Every single day, for at least thirty minutes. Anything less won't produce results."

Evelyn nodded without hesitation. "I understand, Dr. Carter. I'll make sure it's done daily."

Benjamin held her gaze. "No breaks. You must persist."

After she expressed her thanks and departed, he stood and closed the office door.

He let out a long breath, then turned towards the room's corner. "She's gone. You can come out now. The coast is clear."

As soon as he finished speaking, Alexander emerged from the shadows.

Half an hour earlier, Samuel had alerted him that Evelyn was en route to the hospital to question Benjamin.

Anxious, he had cancelled his morning appointments and arrived at Benjamin's office before her.

Shortly after, Benjamin's assistant warned them of Evelyn's approach. With no time for discussion, Alexander had been forced to conceal himself in the corner.

He had wondered what she intended to ask.

Even anticipating it, hearing her directly inquire about his old leg injury struck him with an unexpected force.

Then she went further, promising Benjamin she would remain by his side, regardless of whether he ever walked again.

Her words reverberated in his mind, settling deep and unsettling something within him.

Noting the change in Alexander's expression, Benjamin smirked. "You heard it all, didn't you? I have to give you credit."

"Evelyn is utterly devoted to you. What's your secret? A love potion?"

"Don't be absurd. She's my wife. Her place is with me." Alexander shot him a sideways glance, a slight, proud curve touching his lips. A glint of satisfaction shone in his eyes.

Benjamin nearly did a double-take.

For a moment, Alexander reminded him of a preening peacock, proudly displaying its feathers.

He had a feeling this was just the start. Alexander was going to become even more insufferable about flaunting his marriage.

"Oh, and I suggested Evelyn begin daily massages for you. Do us all a favor and don't mess this up," Benjamin said, arching an eyebrow.

Alexander's frown deepened. "Why would you tell her that? It was completely unnecessary."

He was already struggling to maintain his guard around Evelyn. Just this morning, he'd almost been exposed when she stepped on his foot.

If she started touching him daily, he doubted his act could hold.

Benjamin feigned innocence, sighing theatrically. "I'm only trying to help. A little intimacy is good for a marriage."

Then he grinned. "Besides, Evelyn clearly adores you. If you refuse, she'll just come back to me with more suspicions."

Seeing Alexander's furrowed brow and clear annoyance, Benjamin adopted a practical tone. "You and Evelyn are married. More time together builds closeness. And who knows? Maybe starting a family isn't so far off."

Before Alexander could retort, Benjamin pushed his chair back and stood. "I have a surgery this morning. I'm needed elsewhere."

Just before stepping out, he threw a final jab over his shoulder. "When the baby comes, Sebastian and I will be the first with congratulations."

The door clicked shut, leaving Alexander alone with his simmering frustration.

Benjamin and Sebastian never missed a chance to provoke him.

He released a slow, heavy sigh.

Benjamin's words echoed: him and Evelyn, having a child.

It was a prospect he had never seriously entertained before.

If anything, he had always been indifferent, perhaps even averse, to the idea of children, avoiding them whenever possible.

But if the child was Evelyn's... a child who might inherit her intelligent eyes, her gentle smile...

Somehow, the thought didn't seem so disagreeable anymore.

Maybe a family wasn't as impossible as he'd always believed.