Chapter 357

Evelyn froze when she heard Alexander's words. Her eyes lifted to see him holding little Amelia protectively, his stormy gaze locked onto the approaching man.

"Daddy! That's him! He scared me!" The bratty boy hid behind his father's legs, pointing accusingly at Alexander.

The man cracked his knuckles aggressively, but his bravado evaporated the moment he recognized Alexander. "M-Mr. Blackwood! I didn't realize it was you!"

Alexander remained impassive, showing no recognition of the man. Undeterred, the man continued with nervous laughter. "Sir, I work in the architectural division on floor 16 at Blackwood Enterprises. You wouldn't know me, but I've seen you in meetings. What an incredible coincidence!"

He then turned his attention to Amelia. "This must be your daughter? She's absolutely stunning - clearly takes after you! Look at those cheekbones, exactly like yours—"

Evelyn cut in sharply. "Your flattery is as poor as your parenting. Perhaps focus on teaching your son basic decency instead?" Her tone was icy as she moved to take Amelia from Alexander's arms.

The man's eyes widened when he saw Evelyn standing beside Alexander. "Oh! Mrs. Blackwood! How elegant you look! You're absolutely right to reprimand me!" He immediately smacked his son's head. "You little troublemaker! Apologize right now or I'll tan your hide!"

The boy's bravado vanished. "S-sorry... won't do it again..." he stammered.

"Mr. Blackwood, is this... acceptable?" The man smiled nervously.

Alexander's gaze was glacial. "Discipline begins at home. Consider this your first warning. Two strikes and you're out of my company."

The man paled, realizing his mistake in revealing his employment. "P-please, Mr. Blackwood, let me explain—"

Alexander turned away dismissively, approaching Evelyn where he heard Amelia's sweet voice asking, "Mommy, the pretty man said he's my daddy. Do I have two daddies now?"

Evelyn's expression shifted before she smiled gently. "No sweetheart, you only have one daddy. His name is—"

"His name is Alexander Blackwood."

Evelyn looked up sharply to see Alexander approaching with uncharacteristic softness in his expression.

Dressed in athletic wear, he looked younger than usual with the autumn breeze tousling his hair. He reached out to stroke Amelia's head tenderly.

"Amelia, from today onward, I'm your daddy."

"Really, pretty man?" The little girl blinked her large, innocent eyes.

"Yes." Alexander's confirmation was solemn.

Evelyn set Amelia down gently. "Sweetheart, go play with your friends. Mommy will come get you later."

"Okay!" Amelia skipped away happily.

Alexander's voice was low behind Evelyn. "Since you'll soon be my wife, isn't it natural for Amelia to call me father?"

Evelyn suppressed her irritation, forcing a smile. "She's too young to understand adult arrangements."

Alexander nodded thoughtfully, then grinned. "That man wasn't entirely wrong though - she does resemble me."

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "He was just sucking up. Amelia is Sebastian's daughter - why would she look like you? Though I suppose there might be some family resemblance since you're uncle and nephew."

Alexander's smile deepened with hidden meaning as he studied Evelyn. "Are you jealous?" she teased.

The corner of his mouth lifted dangerously as his gaze traced her features. "Why would I be? Your heart already belongs to me."

"Good that you understand," Evelyn said lightly. "Speaking of children, where's Ethan? Despite my feelings about Victoria, he's truly a wonderful boy."

"You like Ethan?"

"Very much," Evelyn admitted sincerely. She'd always felt a special connection with the boy.

Alexander grew thoughtful at her genuine smile. "Since you're so fond of him, I'll make sure you get custody."