[Carter Mansion]
The sky had already deepened into a soft indigo when Alexander pulled up in front of the Carter mansion.
The drive back from the hospital had been quiet but peaceful with Evelyn leaning her head against the window, still shaken yet relieved after hearing Margaret was stable.
When Alexander parked, she unbuckled slowly.
"Thank you for today," she said, her voice gentle, a little tired.
Alexander shook his head. "You don't need to thank me for being with you."
Evelyn's lips softened into a small smile that made his chest feel strangely warm.
"I will come tomorrow morning," she added.
"I will be there before that," he corrected softly.
She rolled her eyes but it didn't hide the small flutter she felt.
They were still looking at each other when the front door opened and Gregory stepped out.
His expression wasn't angry or tense, it was just thoughtful but also unreadable.
He waited until Evelyn walked up the steps and gently kissed her forehead.
