"Why would the Sterling family possibly invite you to their grand banquet?" Evelyn questioned, her eyebrows shooting up in sheer disbelief.

The Sterling family was at the absolute apex of Crestwood's high society. Their name alone commanded immense respect and signified formidable power.

Even though they had recently maintained a lower public profile, their business empire continued to flourish and expand relentlessly.

Their influence was not confined to Crestwood; it was a dominant force recognized across the entire nation.

Evelyn had heard whispers about the upcoming Sterling banquet. She knew it would be a spectacular event, an exclusive gathering of the nation's most elite individuals.

Earlier at her office, she had overheard that the founder of Aethelgard Industries would be attending, accompanied by his wife.

She could easily picture the lavish scene: glittering chandeliers, the murmur of sophisticated conversation, a true display of opulence and status.

It was precisely because she understood the significance of this event that Alexander's invitation seemed so utterly baffling.

Noticing her deepening confusion, Alexander let out a low, soft chuckle. Amusement sparkled in his eyes as he teased, "What's wrong? Don't you have faith in your husband's abilities?"

She hadn't expected him to joke at such a serious moment.

A faint blush colored her cheeks, surprise flashing across her face. She responded by giving his arm a playful, light smack.

"Ah!" Alexander sucked in a sharp breath, flinching dramatically.

The reaction startled Evelyn, cutting short her intended retort.

"What is it?" she asked, her heart suddenly lurching with concern. She was certain she had tapped his uninjured arm.

Worry tightened in her chest as she leaned closer to inspect the spot. "Let me see."

But as she reached out, Alexander's expression melted into a mischievous grin. He swiftly captured her wrist, his gaze locking with hers, full of affection.

Evelyn's pulse quickened. Shaking off her momentary daze, she scowled, her irritation mixing with disbelief. "Alexander Blackwood! You've fooled me again!"

Her expression, a blend of annoyance and playful exasperation, only made him adore this spirited side of her even more.

Evelyn, usually so composed, now radiated a vibrant energy that drew a genuine, admiring smile from Alexander. His handsome features softened, making him impossibly more captivating.

This man possessed an almost unfair level of attractiveness.

Even knowing his trickery, Evelyn found it incredibly difficult to stay truly angry with him.

With this thought, she let out a sigh that was half-exasperated, half-amused.

Alexander responded immediately, tenderly caressing her cheek in a comforting gesture. "Alright, alright, I admit it. I was wrong." His tone, however, held little actual remorse.

"You don't sound very sorry at all," Evelyn retorted, folding her arms across her chest and adopting a stern look. "You genuinely worried me for a second. I thought I might have accidentally hit your injured arm."

Seeing that his jest had truly concerned her, Alexander's demeanor shifted to one of earnest sincerity. "I promise I won't tease you like that again. Please, don't be upset."

The genuine remorse in his apology quickly dissolved the last of Evelyn's irritation.

Their conversation soon returned to its lighter tone before steering back to the important matter.

"The Sterling family inviting you is one thing," Evelyn said, her voice laced with worry. "But I'm more concerned about your arm. That banquet will be packed. What if someone accidentally jostles you?"

Alexander offered a reassuring smile. "Don't fret. I'm almost fully healed. The banquet isn't for a few more days. With proper rest at home, I'll be perfectly fine. Besides, it's crucial that I attend this event. And I want you there with me."