Later, Evie learned that before Alexander arrived, Misty Isle had been isolated. Traffic was poor. Education was scarce. The economy was limited. Most people survived by farming and fishing. Then Alexander came here with Iris Hart. His family sent supplies. Resources followed. Even after he left the island, he returned often. He brought books. He brought tools. He brought hope. Eli Hudson was one of the first students to benefit from those resources. The school and clinic standing today? Donated by the Sterling family. The paved roads and basic infrastructure? Also their gift. So when Alexander returned this time, word spread fast. No official announcement was made. But the moment they stepped ashore, everyone knew. The islanders prepared a bonfire party for that evening. They wanted to celebrate the newlyweds: Alexander and Evie. Of course, Evie had no idea until nightfall.
Class ended. Students burst out of the classroom like pigeons taking flight. Someone spotted Alexander first. “Hey, it’s Gray!” a voice shouted. In seconds, Alexander and Evie were surrounded. Students pressed in from all sides, three layers deep. Then Alexander and Evie joined them for a game of Eagle Catching Chickens. Evie played the hen. Alexander was the eagle. The students were the chicks. Laughter filled the campus. What started as a regular lesson turned into a PE class. Alexander and Evie stayed for the whole period.
On the way back, Evie’s throat felt hoarse. She had laughed too much. Her voice cracked. “Alexander, this is the best honeymoon ever!” she said, still buzzing. “Best honeymoon? Do you have others to compare it to?” he asked, glancing at her. “No. But it’s the most unforgettable one. Even without comparison, it’s perfect!” she grinned. He reached out and touched her head. She grabbed his hand and held it tightly. “Next time you come here, I’m following you,” she said. “Okay,” he replied. Just one word. But it sounded like a promise.
They returned to Willow Creek. Iris had already made lunch. Evie felt guilty. She had been out playing with Alexander and hadn’t helped. Last night, she had promised Iris she would cook today. “Sorry, Iris. Let me make dinner tonight,” Evie offered. “No need,” Iris replied calmly. Evie turned to Alexander, hoping he would say something. “We won’t eat here tonight,” he said. “Oh,” Evie understood. She took the initiative to set the table. Bowls. Chopsticks. Served the food.
In the afternoon, Alexander planned to take Evie swimming. But the wind was too strong. They changed plans. That evening, after a bath, Alexander told Evie to dress nicely. “Dinner tonight? Do I need to look pretty?” she asked curiously. Was there a restaurant on this island? Or were they visiting someone? He had said they wouldn’t eat at Iris’s place. “I’m introducing you to people tonight,” he said with a smile. “Dress up. Make a good impression. They’ll remember you.” “Oh,” Evie replied slowly. That made sense. Clothes make the person. She pulled a dress from her suitcase. “Is this okay?” Alexander glanced at it. “No.” She found another one. “This?” “No.” “But these are the prettiest ones I brought!” “They’re not suitable here. Wear pants.” “Fine.” She finally chose a simple blouse and a pair of trousers, plus a windbreaker. Alexander nodded. Evie muttered, “This is the most boring outfit I have.” “It’s fine. You won’t catch a cold,” he replied calmly. She looked at him. Had he really told her to dress up just to tease her?
When Evie followed Alexander to the dining spot, she understood. It was a bonfire party by the sea. She shot him a grateful look. Now she knew why he insisted on this outfit. By the sea, with the wind blowing, wearing a high collar, trousers, and a windbreaker was the smartest choice. From the island leader’s speech, Evie learned the party was for them. It was a celebration of their wedding. She had thought they were just joining in. Suddenly, they became the main event. She felt nervous. Alexander held her hand. His fingers tapped gently on her palm. Silent comfort. After the speech, two girls placed flower wreaths around their necks. Cheers erupted again. Then everyone formed a circle. Hand in hand. Dancing and singing around the bonfire. Evie didn’t understand the lyrics. But she hummed along. Her smile was bright. Her eyes were curious. After the dance, people started cooking around the fire. Mostly seafood. Some vegetables. They had even slaughtered a sheep for a whole roast. Evie sat beside Alexander, eating grilled shrimp and watching the performances. Then a girl approached and invited Evie to dance. Evie hesitated. “Go. Just dance,” Alexander said, taking the skewer from her hand. She stood up and joined the girl. Hand in hand, Evie watched the others and copied their steps. She was always half a beat behind. But she was happy. The girl beside her explained, “This is our blessing dance. We only dance it during festivals.” Evie danced even harder. A dance of blessings!
Then it happened. She tripped over someone’s foot. Her balance shifted. She fell forward. A cry of surprise. Pain shot through her ankle. Heat rushed to her face. Before she understood what was happening, someone pulled her back. “Evie!” Alexander’s voice. Urgent. Panicked. Noise surrounded her. “I’m fine! I’m fine! Just twisted my ankle!” she shouted. Alexander crouched down and examined her ankle. She winced. “Why are you worried about your face when it hurts?” someone asked. “Face?” Evie touched her cheek. It stung. She hadn’t noticed before. “Eli, come check her!” someone called. Eli Hudson ran over from the other side. He shone a flashlight on Evie’s face and ankle. “Better go to the clinic. Apply some ointment,” he told Alexander. Alexander stood up and addressed the crowd. “Evie just twisted her ankle. Everyone, keep enjoying the party. I’ll take her to the clinic and be right back.” People asked if they needed help. He said no. Just a twist. He and Eli could handle it. Then he picked Evie up and walked toward the clinic. Eli followed with a flashlight. Evie felt embarrassed. Guilty. Her face stung. She couldn’t look up. Alexander didn’t speak the whole way. His lips were pressed tight. She knew he was upset. She didn’t dare say anything, even though she was in pain.