Evelyn moved swiftly, stepping forward to pick up the item.

She examined it closely and then stopped, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her features.

"It looks like a sugar packet," she stated.

Her bodyguard frowned, his suspicion growing.

Could it really be that simple?

Margaret offered a reassuring smile. "Yes, it's just sugar. I have a sweet tooth for my coffee."

After a brief pause and a deep sigh, Margaret's eyes met Evelyn's, filled with a trace of sadness. "I am genuinely trying to make amends with you, Evelyn. But it feels as though you are constantly on guard."

Before Evelyn could respond, Margaret shot a stern look at her aide. "While I understand your distrust of me, it is unfair to allow your bodyguard to injure my servant."

The bodyguard immediately released the servant's wrist, his expression darkening with frustration.

The servant winced in pain and spoke to Margaret. "Mrs. Blackwood, I'm fine..."

Seeing the swelling on the servant's wrist, a wave of guilt washed over Evelyn. "Please accept our apologies. It was a complete misunderstanding," she said sincerely.

Margaret offered a forgiving smile. "It's of no consequence."

She signaled for someone to attend to the servant's injury.

Then, Margaret gracefully carried a cup of coffee to the sofa.

"Evelyn, you truly don't need to be so wary of me."

With a serene smile, she added, "Alexander is fully aware that I invited you here tonight. If anything were to happen to you, I would be the obvious suspect."

Evelyn felt a slight awkwardness.

Her caution towards Margaret was not without reason, given the long-standing animosity between the Blackwood family and her own.

Their threats had nearly caused her serious harm.

Anyone in her position would find it difficult to lower their defenses.

"I understand what you're saying, Margaret," Evelyn said softly, pursing her lips.

They then proceeded to discuss the final arrangements for the upcoming birthday celebration.

The remainder of Evelyn's visit passed without further incident.

Under the cover of darkness, Evelyn returned to Serenity Oaks.

Alexander was waiting for her at the entrance. "Is everything alright? Did Margaret cause any trouble?"

Evelyn approached him and intertwined her fingers with his.

"Not exactly," she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Alexander noticed her unease and his expression grew concerned. "What's wrong?"

As they stepped inside, Evelyn recounted the events of the evening at Margaret's home.

She lowered her voice. "It was probably because you had instructed your bodyguard to be extra vigilant. His heightened alertness might have caused the misunderstanding."

After a brief pause, Evelyn continued, "I'm not blaming you or him. I appreciate how protective you both are. I just wish we could avoid unnecessary conflicts."

She let out a soft sigh. "With Eleanor's birthday party so close, it would distress her to see us at odds with your family."

Hearing her words, Alexander was deeply moved.

No matter what, she always considered others.

He squeezed her hand gently. "When it comes to your safety, it's always better to be excessively cautious than to take any risks."