Their connection was undeniable.

Evelyn took a leave of absence from her job.

She remained at the hospital, dividing her time between two rooms.

She cared for Alexander and kept an eye on Theodore.

The injury to Alexander's arm was more severe than initial assessments suggested.

Evelyn was determined to aid his recovery.

She requested a lesson from a household staff member.

She wanted to learn how to prepare a proper chicken soup.

"You have the technique just right, Mrs. Blackwood," the maid observed from nearby, offering encouragement.

Evelyn offered a faint, self-deprecating smile. "You provided all the instructions. I merely followed them."

The maid's expression turned earnest. "The perfection of the soup isn't the point, Mrs. Blackwood. It's the intention behind making it. Mr. Blackwood will deeply appreciate the effort and care you've shown."

A warm flush crept into Evelyn's cheeks at the words.

A soft, involuntary smile touched her lips.

She quickly shook her head, a little embarrassed.

Even after being married to Alexander, such thoughtful gestures still made her feel this way.

As the soup finished cooking, Evelyn reached for a thermal container.

She began carefully transferring the hot liquid.

Her grip faltered for a moment.

Scalding soup splashed onto the back of her hand.

A sharp, stinging pain erupted instantly.

Evelyn inhaled sharply but managed to keep hold of the pot.

"Mrs. Blackwood!" the maid exclaimed, swiftly moving to secure the container.

Once it was safe, Evelyn rushed to the sink.

She held her injured hand under a stream of cold water.

The skin rapidly turned an angry red.

Swelling began almost immediately.

The burn was clearly significant.

"You need medical ointment for this, right away," the maid insisted, her voice filled with concern.

Evelyn nodded, wincing. "Yes, please."

The maid hurried to fetch the burn cream.

She applied it gently to Evelyn's hand.

"The swelling is quite pronounced," the maid noted, her worry evident. "Mr. Blackwood will be very distressed if he sees this."

Evelyn looked at her urgently. "Please, you mustn't tell Alexander. I'll make sure he doesn't notice."

Understanding her mistress's wish, the maid nodded in silent agreement.

Soon after, Evelyn departed from Serenity Oaks.

She carried the container of soup with her.

The maid watched the car drive away.

"Mrs. Blackwood is exceptionally devoted to him," she murmured softly.

Samuel, the butler, nodded nearby. "Their bond is indeed strong. One can only hope they face no further trials."

Others within earshot quietly shared the sentiment.

In the hospital room, Alexander was listening to an update from his assistant.

"The collaboration with the Sterling family is now confirmed. They are holding a formal banquet in a few days. You have received an invitation. Will you be attending?"

Alexander's immediate instinct was to refuse.

He had always avoided public gatherings and the scrutiny they brought.

But then his thoughts turned to Evelyn.

His preference for a low profile had, in the past, caused her difficulties.

If the influential circles of Crestwood understood Evelyn's true position as his wife, perhaps the petty annoyances would cease.

This line of thinking caused him to reconsider.

"I will attend," he stated.

The Sterling family's banquet presented an ideal opportunity.

He intended to use it to reveal the full truth of his identity to Evelyn.

He wanted no more secrets between them.

At that moment, a sharp voice echoed from the corridor outside the room.

"You there! What are you doing loitering outside Mr. Blackwood's door? Were you listening in?"