Chapter 30: The Heart’s Desire
Evelyn Carter felt her ears burn.
Her fingers twisted together unconsciously as she murmured, “It’s fine.”
“What about you?” Gregory Wilson asked.
“Me?”
“What kind of person is your ideal partner?”
Evelyn’s breath hitched.
Vivian Dempsey jumped in. “Someone gentle, successful, from a good family—and most importantly, handsome.”
Every criteria seemed tailor-made for Alexander Hamilton.
Gregory’s lips curved slightly. “Aside from looks being subjective, I believe I meet the rest?”
Vivian tilted her head, studying him. “Different style, but yeah, you’re attractive.”
“So,” Gregory turned to Evelyn, “Dr. Carter already has someone in mind?”
A timid voice piped up from behind them. “They already broke up.”
Evelyn whirled toward Vivian, who threw her hands up. “Not me!”
She immediately smacked the man who’d spoken. “Mind your own business! Apologize!”
The man ducked away. “Sorry, sorry…”
Gregory nodded in understanding. “Heartbreak takes time. Focus on healing first. The rest can wait.”
Evelyn studied him.
This man’s composure was unnerving. If the rumors were true—that he’d harbored feelings for her for years without ever showing it—his self-control was remarkable.
Her thoughts drifted to Alexander.
The man who always appeared refined in public became reckless when in love. Changing his profile picture, his phone wallpaper—as if he wanted the whole world to witness his happiness.
“Dr. Carter?”
Gregory’s voice pulled her back.
“Hmm?”
“You haven’t answered my question.” His gaze was gentle. “I want to hear it from you. What kind of person do you like?”
Evelyn hesitated. “I…”
Gregory waited patiently, his attention unwavering.
“I just want someone who genuinely loves me.”
Vivian couldn’t resist interjecting. “Well, duh. Who doesn’t—” She abruptly clamped a hand over her mouth.
Hadn’t Alexander been the perfect counterexample?
Vivian lowered her head in regret.
Evelyn continued calmly. “Looks, background, personality—none of that matters. What matters is that he chooses me for who I am. Not because I resemble someone else, or because of any connections.”
Gregory gave a slight nod. “I understand.”
Those words sent a pang through Evelyn’s chest. Just how much did he know?
Night had deepened.
Vivian’s red Porsche sped through the streets. Evelyn watched the neon lights blur past, her thoughts tangled.
“Don’t overthink it,” Vivian said. “Give Greg a chance. I’ve known him since we were kids. He’s a good man.”
The car hummed with the engine’s roar. Evelyn closed her eyes, letting the night air brush against her skin.
