Chapter 762

Alexander Hamilton's gaze burned holes into Gregory Wilson's back.

"There was a multi-car accident nearby today. All senior anesthesiologists are handling critical cases." Gregory remained unflappable, as if oblivious to the tension. "I'm just filling in."

Alexander's lips curved slightly. "Don't be modest, Dr. Wilson. Everyone knows your reputation after that medical forum where you impressed the keynote speaker."

Olivia Lightfoot stood between them, her spine prickling with discomfort. She forced a conciliatory tone: "Mr. Hamilton, are you here to pick up Dr. Carter?"

Instantly, she regretted speaking. Alexander's stare turned colder than the storm outside.

"We should go." Evelyn Carter intervened, giving Olivia a meaningful look. "You two head home too."

Olivia practically dragged Gregory toward the parking garage like a reprieved prisoner.

Alexander nodded at Olivia. "Drive safely." His gaze deliberately skipped over Gregory.

Evelyn exhaled in exasperation. The man's pettiness knew no bounds.

She noticed the umbrella Alexander had set aside, its tip still dripping. Some things never changed.

"Let's go." Alexander took the umbrella. "Grace will worry."

Mention of her mother softened Evelyn's expression. Since moving back to the family home, Grace Anderson waited up nightly for her return.

"I called Grace." Alexander opened the umbrella. "Told her you had surgery tonight."

Rainwater pooled ankle-deep across the hospital courtyard. Alexander crouched at the steps. "I'll carry you."

"That's not—"

"Better one pair of wet shoes than two." He thrust the umbrella at her. "Hold this."

Evelyn wrapped her arms around his neck. His broad shoulders radiated warmth, reminiscent of childhood rides on her father's back.

The car waited in the deepest puddle. Alexander deposited her safely in the passenger seat before jogging through the downpour to the driver's side.

Only a single nightlight glowed in the Hamilton residence.

Alexander changed into loungewear and headed straight for the kitchen. "Hungry? I'll make noodles."

"Since when do you care about stomach health?" Evelyn arched a brow. "You're the one with chronic gastritis."

"Exactly." He cracked an egg with practiced ease. "I know how much it hurts. Wouldn't wish that on you."

A realization struck her. "Have you been waiting since afternoon?"

"Just caught up on work." His tone was casual. "No big deal."

Evelyn studied him quietly.

"You don't need to do this." Her voice softened. "I can take care of myself."

Self-reliance had always been her default setting.

Alexander dropped noodles into boiling water. "I know. But I want to." Steam curled around his gentle smile. "If it bothers you, I'll just wait at the hospital entrance next time."