"No, I can't possibly take the day off. I have those design drafts to review."

Evelyn tried to get out of bed, but her movements were clumsy and unsteady.

Alexander, ever watchful, placed a steadying hand on her back. "Careful. You don't want to make the dizziness worse."

She sighed wearily, pressing her fingers against her temples. "Now that you mention it, I do feel a bit lightheaded."

His expression changed immediately. Worry flashed in his eyes as he observed her.

Something was definitely wrong.

He didn't hesitate, reaching out to press the back of his hand against her forehead. "Do you have a fever?"

Evelyn shook her head, her eyes meeting his. "No fever. Just completely exhausted."

Alexander studied her intently. "We've been getting plenty of rest these past few days. We haven't even–"

Before he could finish, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson. She clamped her hand over his mouth. "What are you even saying right now?"

He gently pried her hand away, his tone matter-of-fact. "Relax. It's just the two of us here. No need for shyness."

He leaned back slightly, his gaze analytical. "But seriously. We've had ample sleep. So why are you so drained today?"

Evelyn had no reply. No matter how she tried to rationalize it, a heavy, persistent fatigue clung to her.

As she sat there pondering, Alexander suddenly straightened up, his face turning serious. "It seems the only logical solution is for us to have sex."

Her palm connected with his cheek in a swift, decisive slap—not hard, but enough to silence him.

"That's it. Conversation over." She threw the covers aside and slid out of bed. "I'm going to get ready."

Without a backward glance, she headed for the bathroom.

Alexander rose as well, stretching lazily before following her. "Don't forget—the Sterling family banquet is tonight. I'll pick you up after work."

He leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, watching as she turned on the faucet.

Evelyn shook her head. "That won't be necessary. The driver can take me. Picking me up would be out of your way. It's not needed."

Alexander considered her words for a moment but didn't argue.

If he arrived first, he might have time to arrange a little surprise for her.

Even after reaching the office, Evelyn felt sluggish. A thick mental fog made it difficult to concentrate.

She had just settled at her desk when a designer knocked and entered.

"Evelyn, I'm here for the design drafts you reviewed," the designer said.

Pushing through her fatigue, Evelyn retrieved the stack of papers from the previous day and handed them over. "I've made some notes. Have your team meet today to discuss them. If everything is approved, you can move forward with production."

"Understood. Thank you for your hard work, Evelyn." The designer turned to leave but paused. Her eyes scanned Evelyn's pale face. "Are you feeling alright? You don't look well."

Evelyn let out a small, tired laugh. "Is it that obvious? I've been off all morning. Woke up feeling dizzy."

"Really?" The designer's concern deepened. "Did you eat anything this morning?" Evelyn nodded. "Just a piece of toast."

The designer's face brightened with sudden insight. "That's probably it. It sounds like low blood sugar. You didn't eat enough."

Evelyn frowned slightly. "You think so?"

The possibility hadn't occurred to her, but upon reflection, it made sense.

The designer's eyes lit up. "Wait here. I have some chocolate in my desk. You need a quick energy boost to get through the morning."