Theodore's voice was frigid, each word sharp and deliberate. "Dispose of it. It holds no value for me now."

Evelyn froze, her breath catching in her throat. She struggled to maintain her composure. "But... you've already transferred the payment."

A harsh, mocking laugh escaped Theodore. "We have a signed contract. The money is irrelevant. Consider it yours."

Evelyn paused, collecting her thoughts. Her voice was remarkably steady when she spoke. "You approached me directly for this commission. I hadn't yet involved Aethelgard Industries' resources. According to our agreement, the company's full involvement was contingent on the design moving to production. Since you no longer require it, I will arrange for the full refund."

It felt wrong to keep the money for a design he no longer wanted.

Theodore fell into a heavy silence.

Evelyn massaged her temples, a dull ache forming. The situation was uncomfortable.

A pang of guilt twisted inside her, yet a stronger instinct screamed for distance, for a clean break.

Suddenly, Theodore let out a low, bitter chuckle. It was a sound devoid of any warmth. "So this is it, Evelyn? You won't even accept my money now?"

Evelyn was speechless, his words striking a nerve. Before she could formulate a response, his voice returned, colder than ice. "If you don't want it, throw it away. Let's not contact each other again."

The line went dead. He had hung up without another word.

The monotonous dial tone buzzed in her ear. A profound sadness washed over her, cold and heavy.

His resentment was palpable, a living thing between them.

But Evelyn refused to dwell on it. Theodore was leaving. That chapter was closing.

She simply wished him peace, and a swift recovery.

As for the payment, she decided she would ask Alexander to facilitate its return once she was back home.

In the following days, Evelyn buried herself in her work. Designing Alexander's suit became her focus, a welcome distraction between her professional commitments.

Soon, the suit was finished.

That evening, Evelyn brought the completed suit home, her heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and anticipation. She couldn't wait for Alexander to see it.

When Alexander's eyes fell upon the garment, a clear spark of admiration ignited within them.

The deep blue fabric of the evening suit seemed to capture the light, shimmering with a subtle intensity. Its cut was impeccable, far surpassing any ordinary design.

A brilliant bow tie complemented the suit perfectly, accentuating its inherent luxury.

But the most striking detail was the silk handkerchief pinned to the chest, its contrasting color radiating an undeniable sophistication.

"Incredible!" Samuel exclaimed, his eyes wide. "I've never seen a men's suit with such presence! Mrs. Blackwood, your talent is exceptional!"

Evelyn smiled, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "You're too kind, Samuel. Men's formalwear is inherently simpler than women's gowns. I merely focused on refining the details."

Alexander's gaze remained fixed on the suit, then shifted to Evelyn. His eyes held a deep, appreciative warmth.

"It is stunning," he affirmed, his voice sincere. "Samuel isn't exaggerating. This is, without question, the finest evening suit I have ever seen."

Evelyn's heart swelled with a deep, satisfying pride at his genuine praise.

Her smile widened, the fatigue of the past days melting away under his approval.

"Thank you," she said, her grin infectious. "Please, try it on. If any adjustments are needed, I can make them immediately."

Alexander nodded, taking the suit to change.

A few moments later, the guest room door opened.

Alexander emerged.

All conversation ceased. Every eye in the room was drawn to him, and a collective, awed silence fell.

He was breathtaking.