Chapter 180

With everything laid out before her, Evangeline found it impossible to say no.

The serious talk was done, and it was finally time for everyone to relax and share a moment or two.

This was Evangeline's favorite part. She was not one for small talk, but she could not turn away her uncles' kindness.

Finally free, she was eager to reconnect with Alex, whom she had not seen in far too long.

The fact that Alex was using a wheelchair—and she had not known—pained her deeply.

Without hesitation, Evangeline wheeled Alex out to the back garden.

As they reached the swing, Evangeline noticed a woman with an effortless grace entering the garden. She looked up and realized it was the same woman who had helped Alex earlier. With a polite smile, she acknowledged her presence.

The woman took her place next to Alex's wheelchair with a practiced grace, her eyes twinkling with a smile that did not quite reach the distant look in her gaze. She seemed to be somewhere else entirely.

Evangeline's gaze