Evelyn had no idea.

At that exact moment, Alexander was holding a signed contract.

It was an agreement with the celebrated jewelry designer, Jacquetta Beaumont.

Her schedule was notoriously full.

Every appointment for the entire year was already booked solid.

Alexander had pulled out all the stops.

He used significant resources and influence.

He bypassed the impossibly long waiting list.

He secured an exclusive commission.

Jacquetta had personally guaranteed it.

A pair of bespoke rings, crafted to his precise specifications.

They would be ready within the week.

The thought alone sent a thrill through him.

Soon, he would have the rings.

Soon, he would propose to Evelyn.

The moment he got the confirmation, he called her.

His emotions were a tidal wave.

He wanted to tell her everything immediately.

But he held back.

He needed it to be perfect.

A stunning surprise.

A proposal she would remember forever.

"Evelyn, I only called after finishing my tasks," Alexander said, his voice calm.

This business trip was a cover.

His visit to the neighboring city had nothing to do with work.

The sole purpose was the proposal.

He had even postponed critical business deals for this.

Hearing his reassurance, Evelyn relaxed. "Good."

She picked up her spoon.

She took a sip of the soup.

A moment ago, it had tasted bland.

Now, it seemed richer.

A subtle sweetness lingered on her tongue.

"Remember to eat properly while you're away," she said. "I worked hard to fix your stomach. Don't ruin my progress."

"I know. I'll be careful," Alexander promised.

Then, his tone turned playful. "So, what's on your menu today? Maybe I'll copy your choices."

Evelyn laughed softly.

She listed the dishes in front of her.

"What? That's unusually healthy for you," Alexander remarked, genuinely surprised.

Evelyn's meals always had a indulgent element.

Something fried or richly flavored.

But today's selection was entirely different.

Light and nutritious.

He'd never known her to choose this.

Evelyn paused.

His observation was sharp.

She hesitated. "I just felt like something lighter today."

Alexander chuckled. "But Charlotte prefers strong flavors too. Did you two make a pact?"

Evelyn faltered.

She was terrible at keeping things from him.

She glanced at Charlotte.

Her friend gave her a questioning look.

Charlotte mouthed, "What is it?"

Evelyn quickly muted the phone. "He thinks it's weird we're eating so clean today."

"Just tell him. It's not a bad thing," Charlotte advised without missing a beat.

Evelyn considered it.

Charlotte was right.

She unmuted the call. "Alexander, there's something I need to tell you."

"What is it?"

His voice was soft. Warm.

A nervous flutter filled Evelyn's chest.

She had planned to wait.

To tell him in person when he returned.

But he had noticed.

She couldn't keep it from him now.

"You were wondering about my light meal," she began. "Well, the reason is..."