I Want You There

Charlotte caught the bright gleam of excitement in Evelyn's eyes and found herself smiling in response.

"Alright, fine. I'm convinced," Charlotte agreed.

She rolled her eyes playfully, giving Evelyn a look that was both teasing and mildly disapproving. She stirred her latte slowly, a slight smirk appearing as she shook her head in mock surrender.

"You've only been married to Alexander for a short time, yet you trust him completely. It's like he's always been there. Okay, I'll take your word for it for now. But I'll be watching to make sure he truly deserves that trust."

Evelyn's smile widened, her eyes glowing with affection. "Understood. I'll speak with him about it when I get home."

The two friends continued their easy conversation, basking in the comfort of their long friendship. Evelyn leaned in curiously, her eyes narrowing slightly. "So, what really brought you back to Crestwood so suddenly?"

Charlotte's eyes shifted away for just a second before she masked her reaction with a careless shrug. "Nothing specific. Work has been relentless. I just decided it was finally time for a proper break," she explained, trying to sound offhand.

Evelyn nodded with understanding. Charlotte had been working non-stop for years, rarely allowing herself a real vacation.

"You absolutely have been overworking yourself," Evelyn said, her voice full of concern. "A break is overdue. What do you say we go out next weekend? Just us, relaxing."

"That sounds wonderful," Charlotte replied, her smile now genuine.

She was already feeling the weight of her recent travels. She desperately needed this downtime.

Evelyn, being thoughtful, didn't prolong their goodbye. Now that Charlotte was back in Crestwood, they would have plenty of time to see each other.

After they parted, Evelyn returned to the imposing estate of Serenity Oaks, her mind returning to a promise she needed to keep.

Once inside, she immediately found the butler. "Has Alexander gone out today?" she asked, a mix of hope and urgency in her tone.

Samuel offered a reassuring smile. "Mr. Blackwood is in his quarters."

Steeling herself, Evelyn walked to Alexander's room. Her hand hovered for a moment before she knocked softly on the door.

"Alexander? It's Evelyn," she called out quietly.

Inside, Alexander had just stepped out of the shower. He felt the cooler air of the room as he settled into his wheelchair. He heard her voice. "Come in," he answered, his tone level and welcoming.

Hearing his permission, Evelyn pushed the door open. She found Alexander seated in his wheelchair, vigorously drying his hair with a towel.

As she moved closer, she was met with a wave of clean, damp air that clung to him.

Her lips pressed together nervously. She stole a quick glance at him, her eyes unintentionally landing on his defined chest, visible where his robe was loosely tied.

A flush warmed her cheeks, and she quickly looked away. "Alexander," she began, her voice soft and hesitant. "There's something I wanted to discuss with you."

Alexander continued patting his hair dry with the towel. "I'm listening."

After a brief pause, Evelyn brought up the dinner. "I was hoping you might be able to join me for dinner with Charlotte. She's my closest friend, and she's heard about our marriage. She's very keen to meet you..." Sensing a subtle shift in the atmosphere, she added awkwardly, "...but if you're too busy, that's completely fine, really..."

Before she could finish, Alexander interrupted, his reply quick and definite. "I'll be there."

Evelyn stopped mid-sentence, blinking in surprise at his immediate agreement.

A sense of relief flowed through her, and she released a soft breath.

Alexander's gaze flickered toward her. He wheeled himself to his desk, picked up a formal envelope, and placed it in her hands.

"There's also something I need from you," he started, his voice even but firm. "Tomorrow, my father is hosting a birthday celebration for my half-brother. I want you there with me."

Evelyn's heart jumped, her composure slipping. "Tomorrow? But... I haven't prepared at all!"

The thought of meeting Alexander's family for the first time since their wedding sent a spike of anxiety through her.

Alexander observed her alarm, his expression softening slightly. "Don't worry. Everything is taken care of. I've even selected a dress for you," he assured her, his tone both commanding and comforting.

Then, his gaze sharpened, focusing intently on her. "But where is the necklace I gave you? Why aren't you wearing it?"