Chapter 644

His gaze remained fixed on Evelyn's face, his eyes holding a tenderness he hadn't even noticed.

Evelyn frowned slightly, recalling the rugged mountain roads and exhausting transfers. "This is a remote area. You have to cross several mountains to get here, and there are so many villages..."

Alexander's lips curved upward.

"I have a mouth. I can ask for directions." His tone was light. "The director mentioned the poor medical conditions in these support areas. At every village, I asked if they had a hospital. They said only this place had a clinic, so I knew I'd find you."

He had driven his SUV over mountains and through valleys, stopping at each village to ask for the clinic's location—until he finally found her.

Evelyn was taken aback. "How long did you search?"

"I left work three days ago."

No wonder there were provisions in the car. He'd been living in it for three days.

Afraid she'd find it unappealing, Alexander quickly explained, "I brought a change of clothes. I even showered at a guesthouse yesterday."

"That's not what I meant." Evelyn sighed. "Medical aid assignments have deadlines. I'll go back eventually."

Alexander nodded. "I know. But you always said you wanted to support remote areas. When I heard they were short on medicine, I asked Olivia for a list of common prescriptions and bought them to bring." He paused. "Consider it my contribution to healthcare?"

"You call that 'some' medicine?" Evelyn couldn't help but laugh. "You nearly filled the entire clinic. But getting prescriptions from Olivia was thoughtful."

The rare praise brought a faint smile to his eyes.

"I went to several pharmacies to gather everything. I hope it helps the locals."

Evelyn's voice was calm. "Thank you, on behalf of those who need it."

"We're all doing our part. No need for thanks."

"...You've changed a lot."

The old Alexander would never have been this considerate, let alone endure three days in a car just to see her.

He studied her intently. "So have you."

He sensed a newfound serenity in her. Before, she had ignored him. Now, at least, she treated him as a friend.

"Have I?"

Alexander suspected it had to do with Andrew's passing, but he didn't voice it, only nodding.

Evelyn, however, saw through him and looked toward the courtyard. "Life here brings peace. I'll be staying a long time. You have work at the company—say what you need to say, then go back."

"It took me three days to find this place. At least let me rest." Alexander insisted. "Driving while exhausted is more dangerous."

Evelyn switched tactics. "You're used to luxury. You've never even seen an instant water heater. Bathing here is a hassle, and the toilets are outhouses."

She laid out every inconvenience, hoping to discourage him.

Instead, Alexander laughed. "Can't be worse than curling up in a car for three days. I couldn't even stretch my legs."

"Daily hardships are different."

"Perfect chance to experience your life." His gaze burned. "We skipped the dating phase and went straight to marriage. Maybe that's why we ended up where we did—we never understood each other's lives. This time, I want to change that."

Evelyn stopped arguing and held up three fingers. "I bet you'll last three days, tops."

"If I do, you won't send me away?"

"We'll see."

She had almost said one day.

A knock interrupted them. Assuming it was the nurse returning, Evelyn turned to explain—only to find Elder Thompson at the door.

"You're here for him?" She pointed at Alexander.

Seeing how eager she was to dismiss him, Alexander followed resignedly.

The elder chuckled. "No guesthouses in the village, and the clinic's full. I prepared the room the kids use during New Year's—clean, with a double bed. You two can stay together."

He clearly mistook them for a real couple.

Evelyn politely declined. "Thank you, but I need to stay in the dorm for night calls."

The reasonable excuse made the elder nod. "Dr. Carter is very considerate." To Alexander, he added, "Mr. Hamilton, you can stay there. The clinic dorms don’t accommodate men. My house is close—you can visit Dr. Carter anytime."