Alexander couldn't hold back a soft laugh at Evelyn's intensely serious face.

Evelyn's lips formed a pout. Her tone was light but firm. "Alexander, this is serious! Stop laughing at me."

"Alright, I'm done," he said, schooling his features into a more neutral expression. "But you're worrying for nothing. You're amazing. My grandmother will see that immediately. She will adore you."

His casual dismissal only made her more anxious. She shook her head. "That's not a real answer. You're just deflecting."

He tightened his grip on her hand, his eyes locking with hers. His voice became low and earnest. "Evelyn, let me be perfectly clear. I love you. You are my entire world. And Grandma has told me, more times than I can count, that her only condition for accepting the woman I choose is that she makes me happy."

Evelyn was completely unprepared for such a direct confession in this context.

A warm blush instantly spread across her cheeks. She had to look away, suddenly feeling shy, and took a moment to collect herself.

After a few seconds, she cleared her throat, attempting to regain her composure.

"Fine, I'll believe you," she said, trying to sound nonchalant. Then, tilting her head thoughtfully, she continued, "But since it's my first time meeting Eleanor, I should bring a gift, shouldn't I? It would be impolite to arrive with nothing."

She gave his arm a light pat, offering a resolute smile. "So, tell me, what does Eleanor like? I want to get it right."

Alexander paused, considering the question. He spoke slowly. "Well, regarding gifts... Grandma has never been impressed by expensive jewelry or gold. What she truly prefers is..."

His voice trailed off, and a look of distinct hesitation flashed across his face.

Evelyn, noticing his unusual expression, leaned closer, her curiosity piqued. "What is it? Just say it!"

Before Alexander could formulate a response, his assistant interjected, unable to contain himself. "Mrs. Blackwood, Mr. Blackwood's grandmother's greatest desire has always been for him to start a family. She wants great-grandchildren to hold."

Evelyn felt her face grow hot. "Ch-children..."

So that was it! No wonder Alexander looked so uncomfortable.

Alexander's expression darkened as he shot a sharp glare at his assistant. "You've said enough. Go and report for your disciplinary action."

Evelyn lightly swatted his hand, rolling her eyes. "Oh, leave him alone! He just said what you were too embarrassed to say yourself."

Alexander pressed his lips together in a thin line.

"I suppose that's understandable. Probably the most natural wish for someone of her generation," Evelyn mused, her thoughts drifting.

"Besides..."

Her mind wandered back to the previous night—the steam-filled bathroom, the strength of Alexander's embrace, the breathless intensity between them.

She leaned closer again, her voice dropping to a playful whisper. "We weren't exactly... careful last night, were we? Maybe Eleanor's wish will come true sooner than anyone thinks."

Contraception hadn't been discussed. It hadn't even crossed their minds in the heat of the moment.

And truthfully, they were both young and healthy.

It seemed almost inevitable.

Alexander raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips. His voice lowered to a suggestive murmur. "That might not be sufficient effort, darling. Don't you think we should... work harder to ensure Grandma's wish is granted? Perhaps tonight we could..."

Evelyn let out a soft, disbelieving laugh and shook her head at his boldness.

Without a second thought, she reached over and gave his thigh a firm, sharp pinch.

That man—always finding an excuse to cause trouble.