Chapter 127

Alexander knocked impatiently at the door. "Evelyn, open up."

"Alexander, just go away. I don't want to see you." Evelyn's voice was ice as she turned from the entrance.

She'd hidden the earring before showering. Now dressed in warm, comfortable clothes, she turned up the heater, finally chasing away the chill.

Checking the clock, she noted over thirty minutes had passed. Surely he'd left by now.

Approaching the door cautiously, she pressed her ear against it. Silence. She turned the knob.

The door swung open to reveal Alexander's tall frame dripping on her doorstep. His hair plastered to his forehead, clothes soaked through. His expression darkened when their eyes met.

Her breath caught. He'd waited outside all this time in the freezing wind?

Instinct made her slam the door, but Alexander wedged his foot in the gap. With effortless strength, he pushed inside, tossing his car keys at her. "There's a change of clothes in my car. Fetch them."

He strode toward the bathroom as if he owned the place. Evelyn blocked his path. "Alexander, what do you think you're doing?"

Even drenched, his aristocratic bearing remained intact. His lips curved in amusement. "Evelyn, would you be breathing right now if I hadn't pulled you from that lake? Is this how you thank your rescuer?"

"Rescuer?" She laughed bitterly. "You only saved me to protect Victoria! So you could torture me yourself!"

Thunderclouds gathered in his gaze. "You truly don't recognize kindness when it's given."

"I learned that from you, Mr. Blackwood."

She spun toward the exit, but his quiet words stopped her. "Even so, you're still here."

Though reluctant, Evelyn retrieved his clothes, hoping he'd leave after changing.

Instead, Alexander made himself at home on her sofa, demanding food.

She knew he wanted the earring. That, she'd never surrender.

A simple meal prepared, she called for him - only to find him asleep on her couch.

In slumber, he looked younger. Vulnerable. The sight tugged at memories she'd tried to bury.

Her fingers brushed his forehead. Burning. His flushed cheeks confirmed it - fever.

From saving her? From waiting half-frozen at her door?

Guilt propelled her toward the pharmacy, but his hand shot out, capturing her wrist.

"Stay, Lillian."