Sebastian's expression brightened as he nudged Alexander. "Oh, that's right! Eleanor got something for Evelyn. What are you waiting for? Go get it."

Evelyn's eyes widened with surprise and delight. "Really? Eleanor bought me a gift?"

She squeezed Alexander's hand, her excitement overflowing. "Let me see it! I haven't even had the chance to get Eleanor anything yet. I suppose I'll need to visit the boutique soon. I wonder what she would prefer..."

Sebastian smirked, pleased with how effortlessly he had redirected the conversation to safer ground.

Alexander observed Evelyn's joyful expression, a pang of guilt tightening in his chest. He gave a slight nod. "It's in the car. I'll have someone bring it in for you."

Evelyn, utterly captivated by the present, spent a considerable amount of time admiring it before finally, and somewhat reluctantly, placing it aside.

Alexander watched her intently, realizing something he had previously overlooked. Having grown up in an orphanage, she likely wasn't accustomed to receiving gifts.

Besides E, the kind-hearted director of the orphanage, who else had ever done such a thing for her?

The realization hit him with profound force.

In that quiet moment, Alexander made a silent vow—to treasure her, shield her, and ensure she never felt that particular kind of loneliness again.

Oblivious to the emotions swirling within him, Evelyn carefully stored the gift away and turned to Sebastian with a radiant smile. "Will you be staying for dinner? The kitchen should be nearly finished."

Sebastian let out a soft laugh. "Thank you, Evelyn."

"No need for thanks. I truly appreciate how much you watch out for Alexander." Evelyn shook her head, her smile genuine and warm.

Hearing this, Sebastian shot Alexander a meaningful look before nudging him with his elbow. "Hear that? Your wife is very concerned about you."

His words weren't merely teasing—they carried a clear, unspoken reminder. Alexander needed to heed Eleanor's advice and finally tell Evelyn the truth.

After all, someone as genuinely sincere as Evelyn was a rarity.

Alexander met Sebastian's gaze, fully understanding the implication. He gave a small nod. "Yes... my wife takes very good care of me."

Evelyn stood up, carefully holding the gift. "Alright, you two, go and get ready. Dinner will be served soon. I'll go put this away."

"Let me take this upstairs first."

Evelyn's voice was flat as she turned toward the staircase.

Alexander watched her ascend, a heavy sigh tearing from his chest. The pressure in his heart intensified with every step she took.

Sebastian observed his friend, a brow quirking upward. "Why are you still so tense? The Sterling banquet isn't for days. You need to relax."

Alexander's gaze dropped to the floor, his voice dropping to a near whisper. "That's the problem. The closer it gets, the more it terrifies me. Her anger I can manage. I can face that. But what if she decides to leave? Not just for now. What if she leaves me for good?"

Sebastian blinked, stunned by the raw dread in Alexander's tone.

He understood Evelyn had every reason to be furious. But vanishing completely? That seemed extreme.

Alexander was spiraling.

Yet, seeing the depth of his friend's fear, Sebastian couldn't bring himself to dismiss it. The thought of what Alexander might become if Evelyn truly walked away sent a cold chill down Sebastian's spine.

He didn't even want to picture it.