“Hearing can be deceiving, but seeing is believing!” “Of course, sometimes even what you see isn’t the whole truth.” “It takes time to truly know someone.” Alexander Sterling toyed with a strand of Evelyn’s hair as he spoke.
Evelyn nodded in agreement. She especially agreed with the second part. After spending time with Alexander, she was certain that first impressions could be misleading.
“Did you ever date anyone before me?” “No,” Evelyn said, shaking her head. “I haven’t even graduated from university yet.” “I’m not ready for marriage.”
As soon as she said it, she realized how that sounded. She hadn’t married Alexander before graduating. That was even more serious than a blind date.
“It’s good to focus on your studies,” Alexander said with a nod. “What about you?” “What about me?” “Have you ever been on a blind date?” Evelyn asked curiously.
“No,” Alexander replied without blinking. It was a textbook lie.
“I didn’t see you that time, but I did see Ethan.” “He looked like a parrot,” Evelyn said. “A parrot?” Alexander asked.
“Yes.” “His hair was dyed every color imaginable.” “His clothes were hideous.” “Either full of holes or covered in skulls.” Evelyn frowned at the memory. But now, Ethan looked much more normal. He was clean and pleasant to the eye.
“Are you sure that was Ethan?” Alexander asked, looking at her. “Yes, but he looks so different now.” “I didn’t recognize him when I saw him here later,” Evelyn said with a smile.
“What the hell is that brat up to?” Alexander muttered, frowning. “Did I say something I shouldn’t have?” Evelyn asked nervously, watching his expression.
“No.” “What you said is perfect.” Alexander smiled, trying to reassure her. Evelyn couldn’t help but shrink back. That smile felt like a crocodile’s grin.
“It’s late.” “Time for bed.” Alexander patted her shoulder, then got up and walked toward the large bed.
Evelyn stared at the bed for a long time. She couldn’t stop thinking about last night. Her ears began to burn again.
“Still not ready to sleep?” Alexander asked, sitting on the bed. He saw her sitting on the sofa, lost in thought.
“No, I’ll close the door,” Evelyn said, laughing awkwardly. She stood up to close the door. But it was already shut. She had to hide in the bathroom to escape her embarrassment.
After a while, she washed her hands and came out. Alexander was already lying down. Only one lamp was left on in the bedroom. Its soft light made the room feel warm and sleepy. It also helped calm Evelyn’s nerves.
She walked to the other side of the bed. She gently lifted the blanket and lay down. Alexander reached out and pulled her into his arms. Evelyn froze, forgetting to breathe. Then she heard him say, “Go to sleep.”
After a long moment, she came to her senses. “Good night,” she whispered. She had been overthinking. She slowly relaxed and soon fell asleep.
She slept through the night without a single dream. When she woke up, she felt refreshed. Her whole body was so comfortable that she just wanted to stay in bed. She didn’t want to move.
Then Alexander’s arm tightened around her waist. He pulled her closer. She could feel the heat of his body and the pounding of his heart. Evelyn’s body stiffened. She didn’t even have the courage to turn around.
Later, Evelyn stood in front of the sink, brushing her teeth quietly. Her face was flushed. She looked up and saw herself in the mirror. She also saw Alexander, brushing his teeth beside her.
This was the first time they had gotten up and washed up together. It was a little awkward. But it also felt special. Evelyn knew she had accepted this man as her partner. From her heart to her body, she was ready to spend the rest of her life with him.
Everything wasn’t as bad as she had first imagined. It was even better than her best expectations. She had no complaints.
After washing up, they went to the main room for breakfast. Then it was almost time to go back to her parents’ house. Today was the day for the return banquet.
Evelyn changed into a dress. It wasn’t as red as her wedding dress. But it was a very festive rose red. Her skin was fair and delicate. The red tailored dress didn’t look cheap on her. It only made her look more refined.
Alexander wore a smoky gray formal suit. The details and the tie design matched Evelyn’s dress perfectly. When they stood together, they looked like a perfect match. They seemed made for each other.
The drive from Sterling Mansion to Evelyn’s home took less than an hour. But it felt like forever to Evelyn. She was eager to see her family.
When they arrived at the Vance house, firecrackers were going off. Alexander got out of the car first. He buttoned his suit jacket and extended his hand to Evelyn. She took his hand and stepped out.
She looked up and saw her parents and sister standing at the door. Her eyes suddenly turned red. She couldn’t even speak. She couldn’t call out to them.
Later, Victoria asked Evelyn if she had been bullied. She wanted to know why Evelyn cried as soon as she got home. Evelyn awkwardly explained for a long time. She wasn’t bullied. She was just a little emotional about coming home. Victoria teased her about it.
Besides the banquet for the couple, many settled relatives also came to join in. It was very lively.
Before dinner, Amelia called Evelyn into the room for a private talk. She asked how Alexander treated her. Was she doing well? Were the family members easy to get along with?
Evelyn patiently answered her mother’s questions. “Mom, don’t worry.” “Alexander is very good to me.” “Mrs. Sterling and the sisters-in-law all treat me very well.”
“That’s good.” “That’s good,” Amelia said, nodding.
After a long time, Evelyn was called away by her sister, Victoria. “Sister, did you miss me these past few days?” Evelyn asked, clinging to her. “Miss you?” “It’s only been a few days.” “You’ve lived at school longer than this,” Victoria replied.
“Sister, just admit you missed me.” “It won’t kill you,” Evelyn said with a smile. “I’m not your husband.” “Why would I miss you?” “Here, I bought you a lot of things.” “Remember to take them back when you go.” Victoria pointed to a pile of shopping bags on the bed.
“Sister, you bought so many gifts for me!” Evelyn said happily. She picked up a shopping bag and was about to look inside.