Chapter 945

Before Evelyn could react, Preston Sinclair had already released her hand as if nothing had happened.

He gave a polite nod to the others in the room before turning to leave, a faint smile lingering in his eyes.

His retreating figure was composed, betraying no hint of the subtle gesture he had just made.

Evelyn clicked her tongue in silent amusement before facing the room again.

The moment she turned, she found Isabella Montgomery and Natalie Beaumont grinning at her with knowing looks.

Natalie arched a brow. "Mr. Sinclair moves fast. You two are already this close? Should we expect wedding bells soon?"

Evelyn shot her a warning glance.

"Focus on Isabella's situation, will you? You're missing the point!"

Isabella couldn't help but laugh. "Nice deflection, Evelyn. Are you prioritizing love over your career now?"

Evelyn straightened, her tone firm.

"They're not mutually exclusive. My career comes first—love is just a bonus."

"Hopeless romantic," they chorused. Evelyn rolled her eyes.

After Isabella finished her meal, Natalie received an urgent call from her company. Something had come up.

"Isabella, I have to head to the office. I can't stay with you. You should be discharged soon—want me to arrange a ride home?"

Isabella shook her head. "I can't leave yet. My mother needs to see how miserable I look, or she'll kill me later."

Natalie sighed in exasperation before turning to Evelyn. "Keep an eye on her, then? I have to go."

Evelyn nodded in agreement.

The moment Natalie left, Alexander Sterling arrived.

Evelyn had texted him earlier, informing him of Isabella's condition and suggesting he visit when he had time. She knew Isabella was stubbornly waiting for him—as if demanding some kind of resolution.

Alexander knocked before entering.

Isabella's eyes brightened momentarily, only to dim when she saw who followed him inside.

Evelyn stood, greeting them smoothly. "Alexander, Amelia, you're here."

She hadn't expected Alexander to bring Amelia, but she kept her expression neutral.

Alexander gave a curt nod, his usual detached demeanor intact.

He turned to Isabella. "How are you feeling, Ms. Montgomery?"

Isabella tensed, torn between relief and disappointment. She forced a weak smile. "Much better, thank you."

Evelyn could see the sadness she was trying to hide.

Behind Alexander, Amelia stepped forward, her gentle beauty radiating warmth.

"Wishing you a speedy recovery, Ms. Montgomery."

Isabella managed a faint smile. "Thank you, Amelia. I didn't expect you to visit."

Amelia glanced at Alexander playfully. "My car broke down, so he had to pick me up. I offered to wait outside, but he probably didn’t trust me not to steal his car again."

Alexander shot her an exasperated but fond look.

"After the first two times? I wasn’t taking any chances."

His tone carried unmistakable affection.

Amelia laughed sheepishly.

Though they weren’t physically close, the way they looked at each other softened Alexander’s usual coldness.

Isabella’s smile turned brittle, but she masked it quickly.

She lowered her gaze, shielding the emotions in her eyes.

Evelyn sighed inwardly before speaking lightly.

"Isabella’s fever just broke. She ate a little, but she’s still weak. She needs rest."