Alexander’s thoughts were entirely consumed by Evelyn’s promise to look after Theodore at the hospital.

The extent of his own injuries meant little to him.

He knew exactly what Theodore wanted from Evelyn. The idea of his wife tending to another man was unbearable.

Evelyn’s expression turned severe when she heard him. "You are staying in this hospital. Alexander, if you insist on being difficult, don't bother coming home at all."

He fell silent immediately. He knew better than to argue further and acquiesced quietly.

Benjamin found the whole scene highly amusing.

Managing Alexander’s stubbornness about medical treatment had always been a struggle.

Finally, someone had emerged who could handle him.

Trying to hide his smile, Benjamin handed a tube of ointment to Evelyn.

"I've treated the injury on his arm. The bandage needs to stay on for a few days. You'll need to apply this to his other wounds."

Evelyn nodded without pause. "Alright."

Benjamin didn't linger, making a swift exit from the room.

Evelyn pulled a chair next to the bed. She dipped a cotton swab into the ointment and gently dabbed it on the cut near Alexander’s mouth.

His usually handsome face was bruised, a sight that pained her. As she leaned in, her breath whispered against his skin. Alexander turned his gaze away, watching her intently. Her subtle fragrance enveloped him. A wave of heat rushed through his body, making composure difficult. He could hold back no longer. He caught her hand, his voice a low whisper. "That's enough, Evelyn. Please, stop moving."

Evelyn drew back slightly, her eyes wide with surprise and concern. "What is it? Did I hurt you?"

Her eyes quickly scanned his injuries, mentally reviewing her actions.

She had been so careful. Could she have caused him pain?

Alexander met her worried look. "No," he said softly. "It doesn't hurt."

He paused, a faint redness creeping into the tips of his ears, which astonished Evelyn.

"I just… really wanted to kiss you."

Even embarrassed, his directness remained.

Shock flashed across Evelyn's face as she stared at him.

"Alexander!" she chided, her tone suggesting she was trying to wake him from a dream. "You're seriously injured! Your arm is bandaged! And this is what you're thinking about? I don't know what to say to you!"

He was truly incorrigible.

A wounded look crossed Alexander's face. He blinked, his tone almost pleading. "Is it a crime to yearn for the woman I love? Is a single kiss too much to ask?"

As he spoke, he shifted closer to her.

"Absolutely not!" Evelyn's resolve wavered for a second, caught off guard by his appeal.

She struggled to find the right words to refuse him.

Seizing the opportunity, Alexander wrapped his good arm around Evelyn's waist and pulled her close.