The possessive gleam in Theodore’s eyes was impossible to miss.

Evelyn’s immediate, frantic concern for Alexander was a blade twisting in his gut.

He had never planned to let Alexander walk away unscathed.

But seeing her focus entirely on her husband, her worry so raw and genuine, extinguished any last shred of mercy he might have possessed.

He replayed the moment she had rushed past him, her world narrowing to only Alexander. Each mental replay fueled a darker, more bitter resentment.

A calculated idea sparked in Theodore’s mind. His gaze settled on Evelyn, a flicker of dark amusement lighting his features.

“If you’re so set on securing his freedom, fine,” he stated, his voice deceptively calm.

Surprise widened Evelyn’s eyes.

Beside her, Alexander’s jaw tightened imperceptibly.

Could Theodore truly be conceding so easily?

Just as Alexander’s suspicion peaked, Theodore continued, his tone almost conversational. “As you can see, I’m injured. You will personally take care of me until I am fully recovered. Do that, and I will consider the matter with Alexander closed.”

Alexander’s expression turned thunderous. “Absolutely not.”

Theodore’s feigned pleasantness vanished. He shot Alexander a look of pure ice. “Then we have nothing further to discuss.”

Evelyn’s face mirrored Alexander’s frustration. The thought of being alone with Theodore was abhorrent.

But his power was a tangible threat. A direct refusal would only bring more trouble down upon Alexander.

If it were just a simple dispute, they could have found another path.

But Alexander’s arm was a mess. The injury looked severe.

They couldn’t afford any delays. Permanent damage was a real risk.

Resolve hardened within Evelyn. She gently pushed aside Alexander’s protesting hand. “Theodore, ignore him. I accept your terms.”

“Evelyn!” Alexander’s voice was sharp with alarm.

She squeezed his good hand, a silent plea for trust, then turned back to Theodore. “But I have one condition.”

A triumphant smirk spread across Theodore’s face. He gave a low chuckle. “Name it.”

Alexander’s frown deepened. He tugged at her hand in protest.

Evelyn glanced back at him, shaking her head reassuringly. “It’s alright.”

She faced Theodore again, her voice firm. “I will care for you until you recover, but it will be at the hospital. Your injuries require proper medical supervision for a complete healing. That is a reasonable condition, given the circumstances.”

Theodore raised an eyebrow but didn’t object. He seemed to interpret her stipulation as a sign of concern. “Very well. We’ll do it your way.”

Alexander’s displeasure was palpable at Theodore’s smug look.

The prospect of Evelyn tending to Theodore’s every need was intolerable.

All three of them understood Theodore’s ulterior motives. As Evelyn’s husband, Alexander found the entire arrangement unbearable.

“Evelyn, we can’t possibly—” he began, trying to reason with her.

Evelyn met his gaze, her decision final. “Alexander, my mind is made up.”