Chapter 427

Alexander strode purposefully toward the study, spotting golden light spilling from beneath the door.

His steps faltered slightly as his expression darkened.

Just as he reached the threshold, Evelyn emerged holding Ethan's small hand.

"Alexander?" Evelyn blinked in surprise. "You're awake too?" Her lips curved into a soft smile. "Let me tuck Ethan in first."

Alexander simply nodded without questioning.

His gaze lingered as Evelyn guided their son down the hallway before finally entering the study.

After settling Ethan into bed, Evelyn whispered, "Promise Mommy you won't tell Daddy about tonight?"

Ethan blinked his wide, innocent eyes twice before nodding solemnly. "Ethan keeps secrets for Mommy."

"Thank you, sweetheart." Evelyn brushed his silky hair aside and pressed a kiss to his rosy cheek. "Sleep tight now."

As Ethan obediently lay down, his tiny fingers grasped Evelyn's sleeve. "Sing for me, Mommy?"

The hopeful note in his childlike voice melted Evelyn's heart completely.

She couldn't possibly refuse.

"Of course, darling." Her gentle smile widened as Ethan beamed, revealing his adorable crooked tooth before closing his eyes.

Evelyn tucked the blanket around him and began humming softly. "Hush little baby, don't say a word..."

Mid-lullaby, unexpected tears pricked her eyes.

Her thoughts drifted to her missing daughter.

Despite investigating everyone connected to Victoria and the Lancasters, she'd found no leads.

Where could Victoria have hidden her child?

Meanwhile, Alexander stood silently in Ethan's doorway.

Watching Evelyn sing to their son, an uncharacteristic softness crept into his usually icy gaze.

Later, Evelyn returned to their bedroom to find Alexander already in bed.

"I couldn't sleep," she explained casually. "Went to the study for a book and found Ethan awake too."

Alexander studied her with a faint smile. "Trouble sleeping? Something on your mind?"

"Just... everything that's happened recently." Evelyn offered the vague excuse before sliding under the covers, careful to maintain distance.

"Get some rest. Big day tomorrow."

But the moment she settled, Alexander pulled her close.

His warmth and sandalwood scent enveloped Evelyn completely.

Though she tried remaining indifferent, she couldn't ignore the heat radiating from his body pressed against hers.

The memory of his computer password flashed through her mind - her own birthday.

Absurd.

Old Master Blackwood's words echoed in her head: 'If Alexander didn't love you, he'd never touch you.'

Evelyn scoffed internally. Love?

If he truly loved me, he wouldn't have shattered my heart repeatedly until nothing remained.