That Makes You My Friend Too!

Alexander’s gaze rested on Evelyn.

It was filled with a tenderness so deep it felt almost solid.

If Cassandra had ever been the focus of such a look, she would have dissolved instantly.

But that softness wasn’t for her.

A sharp, hot jealousy twisted inside Cassandra. Her breath hitched. She glared at Evelyn, barely concealing her bitter resentment.

This woman. This stranger. She had stolen Alexander’s heart while Cassandra was away!

What a brazen, shameless hussy!

She couldn't stand it a moment longer. Cassandra strode forward, shattering the intimate bubble around them.

"Evelyn," Cassandra began, forcing a tone of remorse. "Are you still upset about what happened earlier? I admit, I was completely out of line. If you're still angry, I am truly, deeply sorry."

Alexander’s expression instantly hardened. His eyes turned to ice as they shifted to Cassandra. "What happened?" His voice was clipped and cold.

Cassandra bristled at the sudden change in him. But she quickly plastered a practiced smile on her face. "When I first arrived, I overheard Evelyn mention you two were married. I was so shocked. I thought perhaps she was just someone you'd hired to placate your family. So... I might have been a little rude."

She flashed Alexander a well-rehearsed, charming smile. "But seeing you together now, I realize I was terribly mistaken. My apologies."

She turned back to Evelyn, putting on a mask of perfect sincerity. "Evelyn, I was wrong. Please, forgive me."

Evelyn studied her calm, seemingly genuine demeanor. Knowing Cassandra's public reputation for politeness and grace, Evelyn felt her guard lower slightly.

Perhaps she had overreacted earlier. Maybe Cassandra genuinely saw Alexander as just a friend.

The thought comforted Evelyn. Alexander had never been particularly popular in Crestwood. Seeing him have a real friend made her happy for him.

Her earlier unease began to fade.

Evelyn offered a warm smile. "It's really alright, Cassandra. Don't worry about it. It's no big deal."

Cassandra let out a soft, relieved sigh. "That's a weight off my mind," she purred.

After a brief pause, her eyes flickered toward Alexander before settling back on Evelyn with a warm, inviting smile. "Well, since you're Alexander's wife, that makes you my friend too! You mustn't hesitate to call me if you ever need anything at all."

Evelyn returned a polite smile. "Thank you, Cassandra. I'll remember that."

Alexander, noticing Evelyn's brighter mood, gave her a small, private smile. He gently took her hand. "Let's go inside," he suggested.

Evelyn smiled back and moved to push his wheelchair. "Are you hungry? I'll have the kitchen prepare dinner."

Cassandra, who had been hoping for an opening to get closer to Alexander, seethed inwardly as she watched Evelyn take charge. She swallowed her annoyance and forced a smile, following them inside.

Evelyn glanced back at her. "Cassandra, is there anything in particular you'd like to eat? I can have the kitchen make it for you."

A hint of calculation flashed in Cassandra's eyes. She reached out and patted Alexander's shoulder, her voice light and playful. "Alexander, we've known each other forever. I'm sure the staff here still remembers my preferences, don't you think?"

Evelyn simply blinked, saying nothing.

Alexander's voice remained calm and even. "You've been away for a long time, Cassandra. The staff has turned over several times since then. Samuel is getting older and has enough to manage. It's unfair to expect him to remember every minor detail. If you have specific requests, just tell the staff directly."