Evelyn let out a soft laugh at Alexander's statement.

His voice was calm and firm. "You've mentioned it, so let's formalize it. That bodyguard will maintain distance from now on. He will only act upon your direct command."

Evelyn considered this and found it acceptable. She gave a nod. "Agreed."

She leaned closer, her cheek gently brushing against his. "You're spoiling me," she whispered.

In the following days, Evelyn visited the company frequently, assisting Margaret with the final arrangements for Eleanor's birthday banquet.

The preparations were progressing without a hitch.

That afternoon, Margaret called. "Evelyn, the hotel contacted me. The venue is ready. We should go inspect it."

"Of course," Evelyn replied evenly.

Soon after, she arrived at the hotel accompanied by her bodyguard.

At the entrance to the banquet hall, Evelyn turned to the man. "Wait here. I won't be long."

"Yes, Mrs. Blackwood," the bodyguard acknowledged with a nod, remaining stationed outside as Evelyn entered.

Inside, she immediately saw Margaret.

"Mrs. Blackwood, is everything to your satisfaction? We can make any necessary adjustments immediately," the hotel manager was saying to Margaret, his tone dripping with deference. Evelyn walked over. "Margaret."

Margaret greeted her with a warm smile, linking her arm through Evelyn's. "Well? What's your first impression?"

Evelyn's eyes scanned the grand hall. "It looks promising initially. But I need to examine the details."

Noting Margaret's unusually familiar tone with the young woman, the hotel manager hesitated before venturing, "And this is...?"

Margaret's smile didn't waver. "This is my eldest son's wife, Evelyn. She is overseeing all the details for Eleanor's birthday banquet."

The manager's expression instantly brightened. He bowed deeply. "Mrs. Blackwood! It's an honor. I am Marcus Holloway, manager of The Regal Crestwood. Please, call me Marcus."

He then gestured for them to proceed. "Allow me to give you a full tour."

He led them through the venue, pointing out various features.

Evelyn examined everything critically, offering precise suggestions where needed.

Marcus nodded enthusiastically at each point. "Absolutely, Mrs. Blackwood. We will see to these adjustments right away. We want the setting to be flawless for the event."

Though slightly taken aback by the manager's excessive flattery, Evelyn chose not to comment.

Finally, Marcus showed them into a guest lounge.

"These lounges are fully equipped for your guests' comfort," he explained. "Should anyone need a quiet moment to escape the crowd, they will find a serene space here."

Evelyn's gaze swept the room. She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took a deliberate breath. "There's a peculiar scent in here."

Marcus gave a light, pleased chuckle. "You have a keen sense of smell. We've employed a custom aromatherapy blend to help guests relax and create a soothing ambiance."

As he spoke, he gracefully poured two cups of coffee, presenting them with a courteous smile. "This is a premium imported blend—smooth, rich, and aromatic. Please, try it. It will be served in all the lounges."

Evelyn accepted the cup with a polite nod. "Thank you."

She raised the cup to her lips and took a small sip. She hesitated.

Imported coffee?

It seemed rather ordinary. If anything, it left a faintly sour note on her palate.

Just as she was about to ask a question, Margaret's sudden, sharp cry interrupted her thoughts.