When the song ended, Alexander led me back toward our table, but we were intercepted by a distinguished–looking woman with silver hair.

“Dr. Porter,” Alexander greeted her warmly. “I’d like you to meet my wife, Olivia. Olivia, this is Dr. Emily Porter, head of the Children’s Hospital Foundation.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” I said, shaking her hand.

“The pleasure is mine,” Dr. Porter replied. “Alexander has been one of our most generous supporters. The Carter Wing has helped thousands of children.”

“The Carter Wing?” I looked at Alexander questioningly.

Dr. Porter seemed surprised. “The pediatric research center. Alexander funded it three years ago. Surely he told you?”

Alexander looked almost embarrassed. “It never came up.”

“Well, he’s too modest,” Dr. Porter continued. “The center focuses on rare childhood diseases, many of which were considered untreatable before our

research.”

I felt a surge of admiration for Alexander. “That’s incredible work.”

“We couldn’t do it without supporters like your husband,” Dr. Porter said. “Perhaps you’d like to tour the facility sometime? See the impact firsthand?”

“I’d love that,” I replied honestly.

After Dr. Porter moved on to greet other guests, I turned to Alexander. “You never mentioned funding a pediatric research center.”

He shrugged, looking uncomfortable with the praise. “It was a good investment.”

“In children?”

“In the future,” he corrected. “Those kids deserve a chance.”

17:43 Mon, Sep 8

Chapter 142

57

55 vouchers

I stood there looking at Alexander, his words echoing in my head. The simple statement that kids deserved a chance revealed a side of him I’d never expected. Not from the ruthless CEO who commanded boardrooms and made million- dollar decisions without blinking.

“What?” Alexander asked, noticing my expression.

“Nothing.” I shook my head slightly. “It’s just not what I expected you to say.”

eyebrow raised. “What did you expect? That I funded a children’s hospital for the

“Well… maybe?”

benefits. But that’s not

I asked, genuinely curious about

Especially those dealing with rare diseases that don’t get much research funding. Most pharmaceutical companies focus on more common conditions because they

surprisingly altruistic of

quirked up. “Don’t sound so shocked. I’m not always the heartless CEO the business magazines

ceremonies tapped on the microphone, drawing everyone’s attention to

We’re about to begin the auction

back to the Carter table, his hand warm against the small of my back. Harold was already engaged in conversation

eye?” Alexander asked, glancing

“Maybe the weekend in Napa? I’ve

17:43 Mon, Sep 8

Chapter 142

wine tasting.”

:

57

55 vouchers

anytime,” he said dismissively. “Look at the artwork

I

that tends

British accent, stepped up to the podium. “Good evening, esteemed guests. Tonight, we have an extraordinary collection of items to auction, with all proceeds benefiting

with a celebrity chef. I watched with fascination as people casually bid

a seven–day Mediterranean cruise aboard the Silver Seas yacht. This exclusive experience includes a private chef, full crew, and stops at Capri, Santorini, and Mykonos. Bidding starts at fifteen

sat back, content to

a woman in

man

gavel

the table. “That yacht rents

not to look as shocked as

with three–star Michelin chef Alan Marceau, followed by dinner for six at his

17:43 Mon, Sep 8

Chapter 142

:

called, raising

57

55 vouchers

eventually winning at

I get to be one of the

he replied with a wink. “And then sit at my right

an eye–watering amount to Charles Carter, who

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255