Chapter 507

Bianca Langley's gaze flickered between Alexander Hamilton and Evelyn Carter. "A friend of Dr. Carter's?"

"Mm."

"How interesting." Bianca chuckled, her fingers tapping lightly on the table. "For Mr. Hamilton to personally play mediator, this friend must be quite important."

The baby in his arms cooed and waved tiny fists. Alexander adjusted his hold, carefully smoothing her dress.

"Not my concern." He met Evelyn's eyes. "But she helped Evelyn."

Bianca arched a brow. "Repaying a debt?"

"You could say that."

The amusement faded from Bianca's face. "How much?"

Alexander concisely outlined the Dempsey family's situation. "The bank loan is settled, but restarting requires capital."

Bianca studied him skeptically. "With your resources, why bother coming to me? There's more to this, isn't there?"

Alexander gently patted the baby's back. "I transferred funds. She refused them."

Bianca fell into thoughtful silence.

Evelyn spoke up. "My friend's business was stable until this emergency. While I can't guarantee returns, I know she'll give everything."

"Fascinating." A spark of interest lit Bianca's eyes. "First time I've heard such blunt investment terms."

Alexander shook his head ruefully. "She's a doctor. Doesn't understand corporate games."

"I prefer straightforward people." Bianca tilted her head. "But Dr. Carter, business is war. Principles can be costly."

Alexander frowned. "Don't scare her."

"Oh?" Bianca teased. "So protective, Mr. Hamilton?"

Seizing the lighter mood, Evelyn said earnestly, "I'm new to this world. My ignorance must amuse you."

"Not at all." Bianca waved a hand. "With your husband's guarantee, I've no concerns. Just curious—why not use his money?"

Alexander gave a wry smile. "Long story."

"She hates you?" Bianca perked up.

Remembering Vivian Dempsey's attitude, Alexander admitted, "If she knew the source, she might deliberately lose it all."

Bianca burst out laughing. "You really screwed up!"

"Past mistakes." He sighed. "Trying to make amends."

When her laughter subsided, Bianca sobered. "Normally I'd help, but the Langley funds..." She trailed off, shadows crossing her face.

Alexander nodded. "Understood. Whatever you can manage."

"Money isn't the issue." Bianca waved impatiently. "It's dealing with him that irritates me."

Alexander ventured carefully, "You and Vincent Croix..."

"Mutual benefit." Her laugh was icy. "Marriage teaches you its true worthlessness."

Alexander's brow creased slightly. "Depends on the people."

"Think I chose poorly?"

"Vincent's capable. The Langleys prosper under him."

"True." Bianca's smile turned sardonic. "Pity good husbands and good businessmen rarely overlap."

Alexander glanced at Evelyn. "Miss Langley agrees."

Evelyn lifted her milk glass. "We're deeply grateful."

"Not so fast." Bianca's eyes gleamed mischievously. "One condition."

Taking her daughter back, she asked abruptly, "Is babysitting exhausting?"

Alexander answered honestly. "No experience."

Evelyn added, "I'm an OB-GYN. Mainly treat mothers."

"Perfect!" Bianca brightened. "Take her for a few days."