Alexander, Where Are You

"Massage?" Alexander's eyebrow arched, a flicker of doubt and intrigue crossing his features as he turned to Evelyn. "You're serious? You know how?"

Evelyn met his gaze, her eyes sparkling with quiet assurance. "Without a doubt. I'm better than you might think."

His attention drifted to the formidable pile of documents covering his desk, his reluctance clear.

Her voice was soft, persuasive. "You and Charlotte are machines, never stopping. But the work isn't going anywhere. You need to rest, Alexander."

A short, incredulous laugh escaped him. "My insomnia is severe. If this fails, consider your massage privileges revoked."

"Challenge accepted," she replied, her smile unwavering, full of confidence.

Slightly mollified, Alexander allowed Evelyn to guide his wheelchair to the bedside.

She moved to assist him further, but with a practiced, fluid motion born of necessity, he transferred himself onto the bed. Evelyn paused, impressed anew by his self-reliance.

Living with his condition had forged a profound resilience in him, an adaptability she deeply admired.

This understanding swelled her respect, a quiet acknowledgment of the strength he displayed every day.

Alexander settled onto the mattress, letting his eyes fall shut with a weary exhale. "Proceed," he murmured.

Evelyn moved the wheelchair aside and sat beside him. She leaned in, her fingers making contact with his temples in a deliberate, tender press. Her technique was both gentle and firm, expertly easing the tension.

Under her skilled touch, Alexander felt the rigid stress of the day begin to dissolve.

A delicate, sweet fragrance filled the space around him. It wasn't perfume; it was something inherently pure, subtly floral, uniquely Evelyn. It was comforting, enhancing the growing serenity.

Slowly, the chronic tightness in his muscles yielded to her persistent ministrations. Alexander's awareness dimmed, soothed by the rhythm and the calm.

Soon, he succumbed to a deep, restful sleep, his breathing slowing to a peaceful, even cadence.

Noticing the change, Evelyn gradually stilled her hands before withdrawing them completely.

Wordlessly, she watched him sleep, a warm smile touching her lips at the sight of his unguarded peace.

In sleep, Alexander's stern expression softened, replaced by a rare, vulnerable tranquility.

With careful reverence, Evelyn reached for a nearby blanket. She draped it over him gently, ensuring his warmth.

After a final glance, she switched off the lamp and left the room in silence.

The next morning, warm sunlight poured through the window, bathing the bedroom in a soft glow. Alexander slept on, deeply and unaware.

Abruptly, the serene quiet was broken by the shrill ring of the bedside phone.

Alexander jolted awake, his eyes snapping open. He scowled, irritation sharp on his face as he grabbed the receiver.

"Who is this?" he grumbled, his voice rough with sleep.

There was a brief hesitation on the line before Sebastian's surprised voice came through. "Alexander, where are you? We had a meeting this morning to finalize the acquisition details. Why aren't you here?"

Alexander froze for a second, the forgotten commitment crashing down on him.

He glanced at the clock and cursed softly under his breath for oversleeping.

"I'm at Serenity Oaks. Come get me. I'll be ready shortly," he said, his tone now clipped and efficient.

"Alright, I'm on my way," Sebastian replied, a hint of resignation in his acknowledgment.

Hanging up, Alexander threw off the covers and swung out of bed. He moved quickly through his routine, and by the time he was dressed, his usual composed, detached demeanor was firmly back in place.

Soon after, Alexander exited Serenity Oaks and slid into Sebastian's waiting car.

The door closed with a solid thud. Alexander immediately felt Sebastian's curious gaze on him.

He adjusted his cufflink, a slight frown forming. "Why are you staring?"

Sebastian chuckled, his eyes alight with amusement. "Well, would you look at this? A historical first. You're actually late?"

He nudged Alexander playfully, his tone light and teasing. "Don't tell me a captivating romantic interlude was the cause of your delay?"