Everything went black for Evelyn.

The darkness was absolute.

Every sound around her became intensely sharp and clear.

A wave of discomfort washed over her.

She instinctively moved closer to Alexander.

"Don't leave me alone here, please," she whispered, her voice soft and warm.

Blindfolded, her lips parted slightly as she spoke.

This subtle movement caught Alexander's attention.

Watching her, he felt a sudden tightness in his chest.

The urge to kiss her was powerful, almost overwhelming.

Yet, he held himself back.

It wasn't the right moment.

Guided by his voice, Evelyn carefully climbed into the helicopter.

Time lost all meaning as they flew.

With each passing minute, her curiosity grew.

She was desperate to know where they were going.

Finally, the helicopter began its descent.

Her excitement surged.

Once they landed, Alexander's calm voice cut through the silence.

"You can remove the blindfold now."

Evelyn quickly tore the fabric from her eyes.

Her vision adjusted to the bright light.

Astonishment gripped her.

An island.

They were on an island!

She had imagined a quiet countryside or a mountain retreat near Crestwood.

But an island was a complete surprise.

A gentle breeze played with the hem of her dress, lifting it lightly.

"Alexander! What island is this?" Evelyn scanned the stunning landscape. "I've never seen anything like this online."

He let out a soft laugh. "It's a private island. We can be completely alone here. No interruptions from the outside world."

Her wonder deepened. "A private island? How did you possibly get permission to come here?"

He almost told her the truth, that the island was his.

But he stopped himself.

Adopting a composed expression, he simply said, "I borrowed it."

A knowing smile spread across Evelyn's face. "Let me guess. Sebastian helped you, didn't he?"

After all, Sebastian was from the influential Hayes family.

It wasn't surprising he might own a private island.

Alexander remained silent.

As Evelyn continued to admire the island's beauty, her smile widened. "Sebastian can be arrogant, but he really does look out for you."

She noticed a subtle shift in Alexander's expression then.

This jealous man!

Amused, Evelyn stepped forward and pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek.

"But in my heart, it's only you. Only you would think to bring me somewhere like this. Thank you, Alexander."

A flicker of emotion shone in his eyes.

A faint, genuine smile touched his lips.

He then guided her towards the villa on the island.

Entering the villa, Evelyn couldn't hide her amazement. "Sebastian built a villa here too? The rich really do have more money than sense."

The island's true owner, walking quietly behind her, said nothing.

He wished he could tell her the truth about his wealth.

He longed to be honest with her.

He would give her anything she desired.

The villa was exquisitely appointed, with every amenity they could need.

It even had a swimming pool in the backyard.

Evelyn's face lit up with pure joy. "I haven't been swimming in ages."