Alexander Blackwood’s expression softened as he spoke, a genuine smile touching his lips.

Sebastian Hayes observed him, a flicker of astonishment in his gaze. The depth of the bond between Alexander and Evelyn was still astounding.

He felt a slight shiver.

How had they sustained such intensity for so long?

But the smile vanished as quickly as it appeared. Alexander’s brow furrowed. He set his pen down deliberately. His voice was low and heavy. "There was another incident at the Sterling family banquet. I haven't found the right moment to tell Evelyn. It's been delayed too long. I'm unsure how to broach the subject now."

Sebastian sighed deeply. "You cannot avoid this indefinitely. Procrastination only compounds the difficulty. You must act."

Having known Alexander for years, Sebastian rarely saw him this conflicted.

Evelyn had indeed transformed him.

Wanting to assist his friend, Sebastian sat up straighter, his demeanor turning earnest. After a thoughtful pause, he ventured cautiously, "Do you have a new plan?"

Alexander gave a slight nod. "I was considering... hosting a public event as the founder of Aethelgard Industries."

Sebastian’s eyes lit up immediately. "That's an excellent idea!"

Then, a new thought occurred to him, and a sly grin spread across his face. "Wait. Isn't our company's annual gala approaching? We always host prominent figures. Why not utilize that occasion? Since Evelyn is also an employee, we could orchestrate a surprise for her."

As Alexander contemplated the suggestion, a slow, determined smile curved his mouth. He nodded firmly. "That could indeed work."

Sebastian grew more enthusiastic. "Exactly! You and Evelyn had a rushed marriage. You never formally proposed, did you? A public proposal at the gala would move her profoundly."

Alexander hesitated, looking thoughtful. "You believe so?"

Before Evelyn, romance was foreign to him. He naturally deferred to Sebastian's judgment in such matters.

Sebastian spoke with conviction. "Trust me. Women adore grand, romantic gestures. Proceed with it."

Alexander considered this for a few seconds before his gaze solidified with resolve.

"I do owe Evelyn a proper proposal. We will proceed with this plan."

Meanwhile, a startling rumor ignited through the corridors of Aethelgard Industries. Amelia Sterling had fled the top floor in tears.

"This is unbelievable! I thought the founder and Miss Sterling were close. What caused her to run off crying?"

"Could there be hidden turmoil behind the scenes?"

"I'm not certain, but one thing is clear—the receptionist must be breathing easier."

"Absolutely! Miss Sterling had her trembling with fear."

"We all assumed Amelia held the power to dismiss anyone. Who imagined the founder would be the one to reduce her to tears?"

"Quiet! Lower your voices. If Amelia's allies overhear, you'll face consequences."

"Frankly, I expected the founder to be more gentle-mannered. He proved surprisingly formidable."

"I suspect the founder already has a wife. If he's protecting someone, it must be his wife. He has no reason to show kindness to Amelia, correct?"