A Gown of Emotions

"Absolutely," the makeup artist confirmed with an eager nod.

Evelyn blinked, her gaze falling to the immaculately fitted gown enveloping her. Awe softened her tone. "The measurements..."

The makeup artist stepped closer, her voice bright with undisguised pride. "Your husband gave them to us. He knew your preferred colors and styles, too. Your reaction says it all—you adore this dress."

Still processing this, Evelyn heard the hairstylist add, a clear note of envy coloring her words. "You're incredibly fortunate, Mrs. Blackwood. Mr. Blackwood understands your taste perfectly. Such thoughtfulness is rare."

Evelyn was stunned by Alexander's consideration.

She had only resided at Serenity Oaks for a month. Their time together had been limited, his frequent business trips keeping him away. Yet, he had somehow discerned her favorite colors and styles with startling precision. His attention to detail was profound.

That he had noticed these subtle preferences, woven into the fabric of her daily life, indicated a genuine desire to know her.

It was a level of observation that required real effort.

The realization left her feeling disoriented, yet deeply moved.

Aside from her lifelong friend Charlotte, Evelyn had never experienced such sincere care from anyone.

Her previous relationship with Julian had begun with attentiveness, but over time, he grew so distant he often forgot her birthday.

Lost in thought, Evelyn started when Alexander's deep, resonant voice broke the silence. "Does the gown meet your expectations?" His question was direct, yet held a thread of curiosity.

Snapping back to the present, she realized Alexander had entered the room unnoticed.

This was her first sight of him today, and he had deviated from his usual attire.

He wore a suit of deep midnight blue that fit his broad shoulders impeccably, the fabric rich and luxurious. The tailoring was flawless, his tie perfectly knotted, exuding an air of refined power. His slightly tousled hair added a touch of effortless sophistication to his handsome features.

As he wheeled closer, his eyes rested on her, a faint glimmer of appreciation in their depths.

"Alexander," Evelyn breathed, his name a soft whisper on her lips, her heart skipping a beat.

In that quiet moment, she noticed the hairstylist and makeup artist had silently withdrawn, leaving them alone.

"Hmm," Alexander murmured, his voice a low vibration. He leaned in slightly, his gaze intent as he repeated his question. "The gown. Is it suitable? I can arrange for another if you prefer."

Evelyn's gaze held his, her heart pounding. Looking at his familiar face, a swell of emotion tightened her throat.

"It's beautiful, truly," she assured him, her voice barely a whisper, betraying a tremor she couldn't suppress. She drew a shaky breath, trying to compose herself, but it only highlighted her vulnerability.

Alexander's expression clouded with confusion and concern. "You don't appear pleased," he observed, his brow furrowing as he moved closer. "Your eyes tell another story."

Indeed, her eyes were glistening, their rims tinged with red, revealing her inner turmoil. Evelyn blinked rapidly, but a single tear escaped despite her efforts.

A sharp pang, akin to pain, tightened Alexander's chest at the sight.

Evelyn's eyes darted away nervously as he spoke, another tear tracing a path down her cheek.

She turned her head, her voice unsteady as she attempted a weak excuse. "It's nothing. Just something in my eye."

She made to move away, to hide her emotion, but Alexander was faster.

His hand shot out, capturing her wrist with a grip that was both gentle and unyielding.