Final Approach to Freedom

Chapter 4

The divorce agreement crumpled in Evelyn Montgomery's grip. She opened her mouth, but the words wouldn't come.

"Watch out!" a voice suddenly shouted.

A server carrying a boiling fondue pot slipped, sending the scalding broth hurtling straight toward Sophia Whitaker.

Alexander Hartley's pupils constricted. In a flash, he lunged forward, shielding Sophia in his arms. The searing liquid splashed across his back, soaking through his black dress shirt as tendrils of steam rose from the fabric.

He sucked in a sharp breath, his skin burning.

"Alex!" Sophia gasped, tears spilling over. "Are you okay?"

Gritting his teeth against the pain, he forced a smile. "I'm fine. Don't worry."

The server paled. "Sir, I'll call an ambulance—"

"No need," Alexander bit out. "Just go."

Evelyn stood frozen, her fingers turning cold. The divorce papers in her hand suddenly felt grotesquely out of place.

"Are you sure you're alright?" Sophia sniffled.

Alexander wiped her tears away gently. "Positive. Come on, eat before your food gets cold."

The meal passed in tense silence. As they left, Alexander turned back. "You wanted to say something earlier?"

Evelyn lowered her lashes. "It can wait until we get home."

After dropping Sophia off, Alexander finally slumped over the steering wheel, his face drenched in sweat.

"Get out," Evelyn said coldly. "I'm taking you to the hospital."

In the ER, the doctor frowned at the severe burns. "This needs hospitalization for observation."

Evelyn wordlessly handled the paperwork, staying by his side through IV drips and bandage changes. The entire time, Alexander stared at his phone, smiling faintly—undoubtedly texting Sophia.

After a day and night of vigilance, his fever broke. Evelyn stepped away to freshen up, only to return and find him holding her phone, his expression dark.

"Someone just called," he said icily. "Said your paperwork is finalized. You'll be leaving in a week."

"Where are you going?"