Chapter 651

The grand ballroom erupted in hushed whispers as the elevator doors parted, revealing Alexander Whitmore's imposing figure.

In Cresthaven society, his reputation preceded him.

Over recent years, financial headlines frequently featured him - alternately described as the Whitmore heir apparent or the city's most promising young tycoon. His consistent refusal of interviews only amplified his enigmatic aura.

For someone of Alexander's stature, securing an audience typically required weeks of advance scheduling.

No one anticipated his sudden appearance at this casual alumni gathering.

"He's even more breathtaking in person!"

"Those broad shoulders could carry the weight of the world!"

"Pity he's already taken. We never stood a chance."

"Delusional much? Even if he were single, women like us wouldn't register on his radar."

"Rumor has it he's completely devoted to his wife. Evelyn Carter must have won the cosmic lottery."

The crowd's attention shifted like a sudden tide.

Ethan Caldwell, previously the center of attention, found himself abruptly abandoned.

The contrast couldn't be sharper - Ethan, the struggling entrepreneur versus Alexander, the undisputed heir to Titan Capital Group with real power at his fingertips. The choice was obvious to everyone present. Ethan's face tightened as he registered the mass desertion, a bitter taste flooding his mouth.

Yet protocol demanded he acknowledge his uncle.

"Uncle Alexander!" Ethan forced a smile, rising from his seat.

A distracted hum was his only response as Alexander became engulfed in a sea of outstretched business cards.

To everyone's surprise, the notoriously aloof tycoon accepted each one with patient courtesy.

Whispers circulated about his legendary poker face, but tonight he seemed almost... approachable.

The change was undoubtedly for Evelyn's sake - as her husband, he wouldn't want to embarrass her before former classmates.

This graciousness only highlighted Ethan's earlier arrogance when rejecting toast after toast.

The collective thought was palpable: "This isn't even a competition."

"Mr. Whitmore, had we known you were coming, we'd have arranged proper accommodations!" Laird fumbled for his cigarette case, only to be waved off.

"I quit years ago," Alexander said, his voice carrying effortlessly. "With my wife expecting, secondhand smoke is out of the question."

A stunned silence followed.

The revelation about his consideration for Evelyn's pregnancy sent waves through the crowd.

As Alexander approached Evelyn, his arm encircled her shoulders possessively. "Please, everyone, enjoy yourselves," he addressed the room before turning to his wife with visible concern. "You're shivering. Where's your wrap?"

He began removing his tailored jacket.

Evelyn pressed a palm against his chest. "The heating's fine, really."

Alexander captured her hand, frowning. "Your fingers are like ice." His gaze dropped to her glass. "And this water's room temperature at best." He set it aside decisively.

Vanessa Hart's nails bit into her palms.

She'd nearly cheered when Evelyn picked up the doctored drink, only for Alexander to materialize at the crucial moment.

As the abandoned glass sat on the bar, Vanessa plotted its discreet disposal before anyone noticed the evidence. Meanwhile, the other women watched Alexander's attentiveness with barely concealed envy.

Who wouldn't covet a husband who combined staggering wealth, devastating looks, and unwavering devotion?

Evelyn had clearly won life's grand prize.

"You're incredibly fortunate, Evelyn," a classmate murmured.

Alexander's gaze softened as he looked down at his wife. "I'm the fortunate one to have won Evelyn's heart."

His eyes then flicked to Ethan. "Wouldn't you agree... Ethan?"

Ethan felt as though an invisible vise clamped around his chest, leaving him exposed and rigid.

His very presence suddenly felt absurd.

The unspoken truth hung heavy - had he not been such a fool, Evelyn would never have married Alexander.

The crowd's murmurs crescendoed as more people connected the dots about their tangled history.

Those unfamiliar with the backstory received rapid explanations in hushed tones.

For Ethan, the evening had become a waking nightmare, his cheeks burning with humiliation.

Vanessa's scheming suddenly seemed utterly contemptible.

Under Alexander's expectant gaze, Ethan had no choice but to respond.

"Uncle Alexander, you and Aunt Evelyn are truly heaven-matched."

The words tasted like ash, but he forced a convincing smile.

Alexander's approving clap on his shoulder felt like a branding iron. "Well said! Regarding that partnership proposal you submitted - my assistant will schedule a proper discussion."

Ethan had waited a month for any response to his startup's proposal, each inquiry met with vague excuses about paperwork delays.

Now he understood - Alexander had been waiting for this public display of submission.

The realization settled like a stone in his gut.