The doctor gestured for Alexander to carefully place Evelyn onto the examination table.

Alexander held Evelyn's hand tightly, his gaze fixed on the doctor as the examination began.

Evelyn, however, seemed miles away, her thoughts completely separate from the pain in her ankle.

She broke the silence, giving Alexander's hand a gentle squeeze. "I feel terrible that you missed the Sterling's banquet because of my accident. It's my fault."

Alexander noticed the guilt shadowing Evelyn's eyes. He leaned in closer, his lips pressing into a thin line before he spoke.

"Darling, please don't think that way," he said, his voice soft but firm. "Yes, it was an opportunity, but it wasn't the only one. There will be others. Let's forget about tonight."

He gently cupped her cheek with his warm hand. "Your well-being is the only thing that matters right now. Everything else can wait."

Evelyn found it difficult to argue, disarmed by the raw sincerity in his eyes, though a sliver of frustration remained.

"Alright, I understand," she conceded with a soft sigh, letting her concerns fade.

Seeing her accept his words, a gentle smile touched Alexander's lips. He affectionately ruffled her hair.

His only real regret was not revealing himself as the founder of Aethelgard Industries at the gala, especially in front of Evelyn.

But this was merely a minor deviation in his much larger plan.

Since he had skipped the Sterling family's event, Alexander began considering hosting an extravagant affair of his own. There, he could unveil his corporate identity and publicly announce his relationship with Evelyn simultaneously.

He was certain this would create a far greater impact than his original intention at the Sterling gala.

Alexander was confident that when the time came, Evelyn would be both stunned and overjoyed.

In the quiet room, Alexander meticulously formulated this new strategy in his mind.

Shortly after, the doctor finished examining Evelyn's ankle.

"First, I'll apply a medicated spray to reduce the swelling," the doctor stated. "You must use this consistently at home. It's crucial you limit any weight-bearing activity on this foot."

"Limit your movement. Rest the ankle for the next several days. You should heal properly," the doctor advised.

Before Evelyn could respond, Alexander spoke. "We understand. Thank you, Doctor."

Fortunately, it was the weekend. Evelyn didn't need to worry about missing work.

The doctor left the room to get a medicated spray for her injury.

A familiar voice suddenly came from the live broadcast on the television.

"As the CEO of Aethelgard Industries, I am honored to represent our company at the Sterling family gala tonight. We eagerly anticipate finalizing our partnership with Mr. Sterling and look forward to a prosperous collaboration."

Evelyn's eyes moved to the screen. Sebastian Hayes stood on the stage at the Sterling banquet, looking impeccably dressed.

"So Mr. Hayes is attending on the company's behalf," she concluded.

It made sense. Sebastian was the public representative for Aethelgard Industries.

A frown creased her brow. "Wait. I thought the founder of Aethelgard was supposed to be there tonight. Why haven't I seen him?"

Alexander, the very founder in question, remained perfectly composed. "He was likely delayed by an unexpected matter."

Evelyn nodded slowly, though her voice held a hint of letdown. "That's a shame. I was really looking forward to finally meeting the founder in person."