The butler, Samuel, instinctively lowered his voice, sensing the heavy atmosphere. "Mr. Blackwood, Mrs. Blackwood prepared dinner. She has been waiting for you."

A flash of annoyance crossed Alexander's face. He frowned, his tone sharp. "Didn't you inform her? My schedule is packed. There's no need for her to wait."

His eyes drifted to Evelyn, asleep on the sofa. In a low, almost bitter mutter, he added, "It's pointless."

Before Samuel could reply, Evelyn stirred. Her eyelids fluttered open, blinking slowly as she fought off the remnants of sleep.

Her vision cleared, landing on Alexander. She paused, a moment of confusion washing over her as she oriented herself.

Alexander's breath caught unexpectedly. Seeing her like this, soft and vulnerable in sleep, stirred something unfamiliar in him. A surprising warmth spread through his chest.

The feeling was fleeting. Evelyn was fully awake now. Her face lit up. She threw off the blanket, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Alexander! You're home! I have incredible news to tell you!" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with anticipation.

Alexander's mind instantly went to the reports from his subordinates. He knew Evelyn had been occupied lately, but the specifics were a mystery.

A dark thought surfaced. Was this it? Was she finally going to ask for a divorce?

Samuel mentioned she made dinner. A final act of kindness before delivering the blow.

His lips curled into a silent sneer.

How naive of her.

He didn't want her concern. He didn't need it.

If she wanted to leave, she should just go. The sooner, the better.

His expression remained cold, unreadable. "What is this important news?" he asked, his voice flat.

Evelyn stood up but didn't answer immediately. She offered him a gentle smile. "It's late. Let's eat first. You've been working so hard; you must be hungry."

Alexander opened his mouth to refuse. But his gaze met her bright, hopeful eyes. The words died in his throat.

He let out a short, sharp breath. He would indulge her this one last time. "Fine."

He washed his hands quickly and followed her to the dining room. He stopped short, his eyes widening at the scene before him.

The table was elegantly set. Soft candlelight flickered, casting dancing shadows. Wine glasses gleamed. Roses were artfully arranged.

Evelyn beamed at him, gesturing for him to sit. She picked up a lighter and lit the candles with a confident flick.

"Well?" she asked, her tone playful. "What do you think of my candlelit dinner? Does it meet your standards?"

Alexander stood frozen, momentarily disarmed by the obvious effort.

His lips pressed into a thin line. "Why go to all this trouble?" he asked, his posture stiff.

"For romance," Evelyn stated simply, her eyes sincere. "We're married. Isn't it normal to add a little spark every now and then?"

The candlelight softened her features, making her smile seem even more vibrant and captivating.

In the quiet intimacy of the moment, Alexander felt a strange flutter in his chest. His heart beat an unsteady rhythm.

He clenched his fists, a war of emotions raging inside. Abruptly, he reached for his wine glass and drained it in one go.

Evelyn blinked, surprised by the sudden action. "You should eat something first," she said softly.

She picked up the serving utensils and carefully placed food on his plate. "I know you prefer lighter flavors. I tried to make dishes you'd like. Tell me what you think." She watched him, her excitement palpable. "Is it okay?"

Alexander glanced at her. "It's acceptable," he muttered.

Evelyn's heart leaped. From a man like Alexander, that was high praise.

She waited until he had taken a few bites before speaking again, her voice soft but eager. "So, my news."

Alexander's fork stilled mid-air. His chewing slowed as his focus shifted entirely to her.

Evelyn took a steadying breath. "I found a job. I passed the interview today. I start tomorrow. The salary is good. I can finally help share the burden. You won't have to carry everything alone."

For a brief, unguarded moment, sheer surprise flashed across Alexander's face.