Evelyn could see the genuine contentment on Alexander's face.

He was truly at peace here.

Surrounded by his closest friends, he seemed to shed all his usual burdens.

Watching Sebastian sway slightly from the alcohol, Evelyn decided to intervene. Her voice was soft as she spoke to Alexander. "Please, go easy on him. You know how Sebastian gets when he's celebrating."

Alexander paused, considering her words. His stern expression softened at her gentle plea.

"Alright," he finally conceded. "Benjamin, make sure Sebastian gets home safely. Watch his step."

As Benjamin guided a unsteady Sebastian out, Charlotte also made moves to leave.

She sensed that Evelyn and Alexander might appreciate a moment alone.

"My inbox is overflowing," she explained, using work as a polite excuse. "I should really get back to it."

Evelyn, always concerned for her friend, immediately offered. "Let us give you a ride. It's really no problem."

Charlotte shook her head firmly. "I'm perfectly fine, and it's a short distance. I'll manage."

After a brief back-and-forth, Alexander smoothly resolved it. He signaled to his assistant. "Please ensure Ms. Sinclair arrives home safely."

"Right away, Mr. Blackwood," the assistant replied promptly.

With their departure, the room grew quiet. Only Evelyn and Alexander remained, bathed in the soft, intimate lighting.

Evelyn noticed the faint flush on Alexander's cheeks. Concern tinged her voice. "Alexander, you drank quite a bit tonight. Are you feeling alright?"

He handled his liquor far better than most.

But seeing her worry, he gave her a calm, reassuring smile. "Just a little. Some fresh air will clear my head."

Evelyn nodded in agreement. "Okay. I'll just be a moment in the restroom, then we can walk."

"Sounds perfect," Alexander said.

As Evelyn walked back from the restroom, a waiter stepped into her path.

"Pardon me, are you Evelyn Blackwood?" he asked.

Startled, Evelyn looked at him cautiously. "Yes? Who's asking?"

The waiter maintained a respectful tone. "I was asked to deliver a gift to you. Please accept it."

He then presented a lavish bouquet of deep red roses. The petals were velvety and rich, exuding a powerful, romantic fragrance.

Evelyn was taken aback. She hesitantly accepted the large bouquet, her mind racing.

"Who sent these?" she asked, her curiosity instantly ignited.

The waiter offered a polite, knowing smile. "A gentleman of considerable charm."

Immediately, Evelyn's thoughts flew to Alexander.

The roses were an unexpected, romantic gesture.

Today was, after all, a dual celebration of both their birthdays.

This must be his unique way of marking their special day.

A radiant smile bloomed on Evelyn's face, warmed by the thoughtful gift.

As she turned gracefully to return to the room, she was completely unaware of the enigmatic figure watching from the shadows.

Hidden from view, Theodore's eyes sparkled with triumph as he saw Evelyn accept the roses he had sent anonymously. A smug smile spread across his face.

This woman, who had so vehemently refused him, was now cherishing his roses.

Her eyes, reflecting the dark red petals, seemed to dance with a secret delight.

Theodore had been discreetly monitoring Evelyn's movements.

He knew tonight was a joint birthday celebration for her and Alexander, attended by their inner circle.

With this gesture, he intended to subtly push Alexander, her unworthy husband, aside.

His confidence swelled. He was certain the cracks in Evelyn's marriage would soon widen.

Once she was free, he would approach her anew, presenting his love with authenticity and passion.

After all, wasn't a grand romantic gesture the key to winning a resistant heart?

Blissfully ignorant of Theodore's dark plotting, Evelyn reentered the room, her spirits lifted by the beautiful bouquet.

However, the sight of the flowers immediately caught Alexander's attention. His eyebrow arched inquisitively.

"Evelyn," he asked, his tone measured. "Where did these come from?"