Chapter 514

Evelyn was taken aback, yet her sharp intuition caught the crucial detail.

"The auction house broke their promise? Is that even allowed at such prestigious events?"

"Highly unusual," Alexander remarked, his gaze briefly flickering toward Isabella.

The auction was hosted by the Powell family, yet the bracelet ended up in Isabella's possession. Alexander suspected Dominic Powell might have arranged this, knowing Isabella desired the piece.

Considering their engagement, gifting her jewelry wasn't beyond reason.

The pearl bracelet had been custom-designed for Evelyn, its milky sheen complementing her porcelain skin perfectly.

Its surface glowed with an ethereal luster, like moonlight captured in solid form. Evelyn typically disliked pearl accessories, but this piece instantly captivated her.

Hearing about the broken auction promise made Evelyn realize she'd misjudged Alexander entirely.

Had she been wrong about his feelings for Isabella? Had she imagined their connection?

Isabella squirmed in discomfort, her fingers nervously clutching the wheelchair arms.

Simon stepped forward, physically shielding Alexander from Isabella's reach.

"Ms. Morgan, allow me to escort you!"

Before she could protest, Simon added, "It's quite late. Mr. Whitmore and Mrs. Whitmore should retire. You've already occupied their entire evening. Surely you wouldn't want to impose further?" His pointed words left Isabella speechless.

Under the watchful eyes of hospital staff, she couldn't openly challenge Simon's remarks.

Isabella's hopeful glance toward Alexander found him completely absorbed in Evelyn.

From the moment Evelyn appeared, Alexander's attention never wavered from her. The blatant disregard made Isabella's eyes burn with unshed tears.

She envied Evelyn with painful intensity.

"You're right. I've monopolized Alexander's time enough tonight."

Suppressing her emotions, Isabella forced a smile. "Mr. Graves, I'd appreciate your assistance."

"Of course." Simon gripped the wheelchair handles, steering her away.

The moment they were out of earshot, Alexander pulled Evelyn into a fierce embrace.

"I'm sorry for standing you up. I never meant to hurt you." His voice dropped with concern. "But you still haven't told me why you're at the hospital. Are you ill?"

"Ethan got injured. I brought him here."

Alexander's embrace stiffened at Ethan's name.

Ethan, who'd been observing from the corridor shadows, chose that moment to approach.

"Uncle Alexander," he said with calculated sweetness, "Evelyn was simply concerned for my wellbeing, just as you were for Isabella's wrist injury. Surely you understand such compassion?" His smile turned razor-sharp. "Fair's fair, don't you think?"