Chapter 673

Evelyn returned home to a peaceful evening. She savored a light dinner before taking her customary walk around the neighborhood with Susan, her ever-attentive maid.

The obstetrician had emphasized the importance of gentle movement during these final weeks. "Regular activity will ease the delivery process," he'd advised.

Anticipating Alexander's return, Evelyn meandered back toward the house. To her surprise, Simon Graves sat waiting in the parlor when she arrived. She nibbled on sliced mango while awaiting her husband.

"Mr. Whitmore was called away unexpectedly on urgent business. I'm here to collect some essentials for his trip," Simon explained, adjusting his tie.

"Business trip?" Evelyn's fork paused mid-air. Alexander hadn't mentioned any travel plans that morning.

Simon recognized her confusion. "Last-minute crisis with the Singapore merger. Shouldn't take more than seventy-two hours to resolve." Evelyn nodded, rising to fetch a travel case.

Simon blanched. "Mrs. Whitmore! Please remain seated - I'll handle everything." His hands fluttered nervously toward her swollen abdomen.

As Simon disappeared upstairs, Evelyn grabbed her phone. Alexander answered on the second ring, the roar of a speeding car evident behind him. "Darling? Simon says you're leaving town?"

"Just a quick trip, Evelyn. Once I clear this hurdle, I'll be homebound until our little one arrives." Alexander had been working tirelessly to delegate responsibilities before her due date.

"I saw Isabella at the hospital today." Evelyn's fingers traced the brocade pattern on the sofa. She'd intended to share this news face-to-face, but circumstances demanded otherwise.

Logically, Evelyn trusted her husband implicitly. Eight years of marriage had proven his devotion. Yet emotionally, Isabella's cryptic smirk haunted her. Without resolution, she'd spend days agonizing.

"Maternity ward? You must be mistaken." Alexander's voice sharpened.

"We spoke directly. She's expecting." The line crackled with silence.

Then, decisively: "Turn the car around. Trip's postponed."

Evelyn blinked. "But Horizon's entire Asian division is waiting—"

"We'll discuss everything when I arrive." The call ended abruptly.

Simon reappeared, wheeling a leather suitcase. "All packed, Mrs. Whitmore. I'll—"

"Plans have changed. Alexander's returning."

Simon's jaw slackened. "The Singapore deal involves three billion! He rescheduled the Tokyo summit specifically for this!"

Evelyn studied her wedding band. "Apparently something more pressing emerged."

"More pressing than..." Simon's protest died as tires screeched outside.

Alexander burst through the door, still in his Oxfords. "Evelyn! Who fathered Isabella's child?" His chest heaved from the sprint indoors.

"I imagine only Isabella knows." Evelyn's response came measured. His frantic return confirmed the baby wasn't his - yet his agitation troubled her more.

Simon gaped. "Sir, the delegation—"

"Divert all security teams to locate Isabella!" Alexander barked. "Pull hospital surveillance footage. I want her found within forty-eight hours!"

His mind raced. "Pregnant? She's not even engaged! Was she assaulted while missing?" Guilt twisted his gut. He'd promised Andrew he'd protect his sister.

Walter hesitated. "Sir, the merger—"

Alexander finally noticed his shoes. He kicked them off violently. "Find her first!" His expression darkened. "If someone harmed her..."

He pivoted to Simon. "Have Reynolds handle Singapore. I'll join after resolving this."

Evelyn observed her husband's commanding presence. That he'd abandon a billion-dollar deal for Isabella stung more than any paternity claim. Had Isabella truly planted roots in his heart?

That night, Evelyn twisted in bed, tormented by recurring visions. In each nightmare, Isabella smirked triumphantly, boasting about the blossoming seed she'd planted in Alexander's soul.