Chapter 273

Alexander Whitmore's lips curved into an elegant smile as he sipped his tea. He carried himself with the effortless grace of a modern aristocrat. The two of them exchanged pleasantries, catching up on years of separation.

Evelyn learned that Alexander had devoted himself to caring for his ailing mother in Serenia. Diagnosed with Alzheimer's, his mother's condition had gradually worsened, leaving her unable to care for herself. Despite numerous opportunities to return to Crestview, he had chosen to stay—both to tend to his mother and to cultivate his own career.

She recalled the intricate dynamics of the Whitmore family. There were four children in total—Alexander, his two elder brothers, and one older sister. The three eldest shared the same mother, while Alexander was the only child of the second wife, adding layers of complexity to their relationships.

Evelyn knew little about Mrs. Whitmore. Even though their families had been close during her childhood and she had visited the Whitmore estate, she had no distinct memory of the woman.

She tilted her head slightly. "What brought you back this year?"

"Home is where the heart is," Alexander murmured, lowering his gaze. His long fingers traced the rim of the delicate teacup. "After all, I am a Whitmore. It was time to reclaim what was rightfully mine."

Evelyn nodded in understanding.

Children born into privilege and power were often entangled in ruthless battles for control. Those who failed to navigate the treacherous waters were left with nothing—their birthright slipping through their fingers. Families like the Kingsleys, harmonious and loving, were rare exceptions.

Alexander suddenly leaned forward, his eyes alight with amusement. "We still have time before dinner. What would you like to do?"

Evelyn blinked, caught off guard.

His lips curled into a knowing smile. "I could take you to see the roses at sunset." His voice softened, sincerity threading through his words. "I have a private garden, and today, it's open for exhibition. Let's enjoy them together."

Roses?

Her pulse quickened, a spark of delight igniting in her chest. Roses had always been her favorite. Back at Willow Creek Estate, she had once tended to a small rose garden herself—though in recent years, Lillian and the others had taken over its care.

"Absolutely," she agreed without hesitation. "Let's go."

As they made their way to Whitmore Gardens, Evelyn settled into the plush interior of Alexander's Bentley. Given their families' long-standing friendship, arriving separately would have been unnecessarily formal.

The Bentley glided smoothly along the road, with Theodore following closely behind, his grip tightening on the steering wheel.

Evelyn had just disentangled herself from Julian Montgomery. Now, Alexander Whitmore had appeared out of nowhere—and he carried an air of refinement that far surpassed Julian's flirtatious charm.

Before, Alexander had discreetly followed her home. This time, he had orchestrated a meeting by intercepting her blind date.

The man was undeniably cunning.

Theodore exhaled sharply, his gaze fixed on the Bentley ahead. After witnessing the pain Nathan Blackwood had inflicted on Evelyn, he had vowed never to let another man hurt her again. He would protect her—no matter what.

Inside the Bentley, the atmosphere was warm and relaxed.

Evelyn had shed her earlier disguise, opting for a natural look. Her long hair was loosely pinned up, a few tendrils framing her face. She had no need to maintain the polished image of a socialite here.

Alexander remained composed, though his gaze flickered toward her. Her flawless complexion, free of makeup, radiated effortless beauty.

He steadied himself before speaking softly. "Do you remember what you called me when we first met that night?"

Evelyn blinked, momentarily puzzled. "I... don't recall."

A faint smile touched his lips. "You called me Critter."

She flushed, mortified.

Alexander chuckled. "My father used to scold me with that name. You overheard it once and decided to tease me with it."

"We were children," she muttered, cheeks burning. "I apologize for being so rude."

His eyes gleamed with amusement. "It's fine. You can still call me that now, if you'd like."

Evelyn groaned. "Oh, please. I'm not twelve anymore." She waved a hand dismissively. "Let's stick to Alexander. We're adults now—and you have a reputation to uphold."

He leaned slightly closer, his voice laced with warmth. "As you wish."