Chapter 268

Lily's brain short-circuited. She stared at him, momentarily unable to process his words. Then, punching his shoulder, she exclaimed, "You're crazy!"

"Ouch!" Alexander grunted. "I know it was negligent of me to bring this up. However, it's not too late for us to work on it."

"When did I say that?" Lily was exasperated. "When did I say I wanted a baby with you? When did I even mention it?" She had no memory of such a conversation. Why had he suddenly raised the topic? He could work on it himself!

Alexander released her, picking up the wooden dolls he'd set down. Waving them at her, he said, "You bought these to hint you want a son and a daughter, didn't you?"

Lily was speechless. "Why are his thoughts so peculiar?! I'm helpless!" she thought. "That's not what I meant," she said aloud. "I was walking by a wood-carving shop, saw these cute dolls, and bought them. You've misunderstood. I don't have any such plans!"

Hopefully, that clarified things. Alexander seemed disappointed for a moment before nodding. "I see."

Lily felt guilty at his disappointed expression. Had she been too harsh? Should she have explained more gently? Was he hoping for children? She'd never considered it herself.

As she pondered this, Alexander continued, "It doesn't matter! Even if you haven't considered it, you can start now. Why don't we think about it?"

"Alex! Get lost!" Lily shouted, a rare outburst. Her earlier guilt evaporated. He seemed to be planning their distant future! Who cared what he wanted to think?

It was a quiet night at the hospital; visiting hours had ended. Most patients were asleep, but there were exceptions.

Nathaniel, admitted to a single-occupancy room after his car accident, had been transferred to a VIP ward two days later. He received excellent care. He wasn't sleepy; he stared out the window at the stars, lost in thought.

The ward's doorbell rang twice before the door opened. A man, looking like a bodyguard, entered, glancing around to ensure Nathaniel was alone. He then looked back out the door and nodded.

A woman, cloaked in an oversized black trench coat, long scarf, and large sunglasses, entered. She stood before Nathaniel's bed, staring. He didn't react, pretending not to notice. After a moment, she removed her sunglasses and said, "Nate."