Chapter 869

Evelyn Carter sat encircled by her family, treated like a priceless treasure on display.

Anthony Taylor burst through the door, triumphantly carrying a bucket of thrashing carp. "Freshly caught this morning!" His crow's feet deepened with joy. "Perfect for nourishing soup."

Teresa Taylor fidgeted beside Evelyn, nervously twisting her hem. "When I was pregnant with you..." Her featherlight voice trailed off. She suddenly slapped her forehead. "Silly me—you're the OB-GYN specialist. What could I possibly teach you?" Tears welled as she turned away.

Anthony squeezed his wife's trembling hand. "Only good days ahead." His voice quivered like he feared waking from a dream.

Watching their cautious affection, Evelyn's throat tightened. "I'll be careful," she murmured.

The front door swung open. Grace Anderson marched in like a hurricane, trailed by servants laden with packages.

"Mom!" Evelyn instinctively rose, only to be gently restrained by Alexander Hamilton's firm hand.

"Don't move!" Grace scolded, tucking a stray lock behind Evelyn's ear with practiced ease. "You're our top priority now."

Teresa's fingers dug into the sofa cushions.

Margaret Hamilton directed servants like a general. "Cherries in the fridge! Walnuts over there—"

"Did you buy out the entire grocery store?" Evelyn laughed weakly. "Emily will be jealous."

Grace beamed. "That clever girl understands!" She produced speckled goose eggs like a magician. "From the countryside—packed with nutrients!"

Watching her mother bustle about, Evelyn suddenly missed her late father. If only he...

A warm palm covered her hand. "We'll visit Dad this weekend," Alexander murmured.

Evelyn nodded.

Grace gathered her purse. "I forgot the sour jujube powder—"

"My driver will take you," Alexander said, already dialing.

After Grace's whirlwind departure, silence settled. Evelyn finally noticed Teresa's hesitant expression.

She inched closer. Blood ties were strange—this woman felt simultaneously intimate yet galaxies away.

"Um..." Evelyn's lips parted, but the word "Mom" lodged in her throat.

Teresa's eyes briefly sparkled before dimming. "Perhaps... your mother could move in with us?" she whispered. "The guest room is ready..."

Anthony nodded eagerly. "Anytime!"

Evelyn clenched her skirt. She couldn't bear hurting them, but forcing Grace would be worse.

Alexander smoothly intervened. "Grace is best positioned to care for Evelyn here. But please consider this your home too."

The tension dissolved like morning mist. Sunlight streamed through floor-to-ceiling windows, gilding Evelyn's lashes as she exhaled in relief.