"You believe I should deploy my charm to seize attention?" Alexander inquired, one eyebrow arched in amusement.

Evelyn shook her head, her expression utterly sincere. "Absolutely not! I merely suggest a bit of refinement could be advantageous. Ultimately, however, your competence is paramount. A polished presentation makes influential guests more receptive to interaction. That translates to greater opportunities."

She paused, tapping a finger thoughtfully against her chin. "Despite the Blackwoods maintaining a subdued presence in recent years, the Sterling guest list will undoubtedly be formidable."

Something fractured within Alexander then. The dam containing his turbulent emotions finally burst. Acting on pure impulse, he drew Evelyn into his arms, holding her firmly against his chest.

Her warmth seeped into him, soft and intimately familiar. He buried his face in the curve of her neck, inhaling her scent as if it were his only anchor.

A profound stillness descended upon him as he released a slow breath. The habitual icy sharpness in his gaze melted away, replaced by a rare, unguarded softness.

Evelyn tensed momentarily in surprise, her mind reeling before her body instinctively relaxed into his. "What's this for?"

The measuring tape hung loosely from her fingers. She hesitated, uncertain whether to return the embrace or remain passive.

After a moment, she gave his back a few gentle pats. "Alexander? Are you alright? You seem... unlike yourself."

A low, quiet laugh rumbled in his chest, his deep voice infused with warmth. "I'm fine. I simply wished to hold you."

His words caused her heart to swell with tenderness, a wave of warmth flooding her chest. "Alright then. But please be swift. I still need your measurements. The Sterling gala approaches, and your suit must be ready in time."

A smile played on Alexander's lips as he held her closer, emitting another soft chuckle. "Our brilliant designer Evelyn—ever the professional. So dedicated to her work."

Evelyn laughed lightly, then gave the nape of his neck a playful pinch. "Alexander, concentrate."

Knowing her concern was solely for his benefit, Alexander finally relinquished his hold, allowing her to resume her task.

"Very well. Proceed with the measurements." Alexander took a half-step back, adopting a relaxed posture before her. He raised his arms lazily, a smirk tugging at his mouth. "I am at your complete disposal. I will cooperate fully."

Evelyn had just retrieved the measuring tape when a realization struck her. She glanced up. "Does your staff already have your measurements on file?"

If so, this entire process would be redundant.

Alexander raised a brow, lying with effortless ease. "No. No one has ever designed clothing for me personally. I typically wear standard sizes. Custom measurements have never been necessary."

Evelyn narrowed her eyes skeptically. "Is that so? Then how is it that every suit you own fits as though it were tailored specifically for you?"

Seeing his deception unravel, Alexander brazenly persisted. "I couldn't say. A fortunate coincidence, perhaps. Regardless, I do not possess my measurements. You will have to take them yourself."

She saw directly through his ploy.

This man was simply inventing excuses to engage with her.

Yet, after months of marriage, she had grown accustomed to his tactics—and perhaps even derived a secret pleasure from them. "Very well," she conceded, shaking her head with an affectionate smile. "Now, stand perfectly still."