Lucas's expression softened. "I mean, that's understandable. I know you don't like to hear it but there was a time she was very close to him. She knows him and how he functions."
"She doesn't want to think the worst," Alexander added. "And I don't want her carrying this."
Lucas nodded. "Then don't let her. Let Benjamin handle it."
Alexander let out a humorless breath. "My father doesn't 'handle' things. He dismantles them."
Lucas glanced at him. "Still you are not wrong to be cautious."
Just then the door unlocked.
Both of them looked up instinctively.
Evelyn stepped in, arms full of shopping bags, hair slightly disheveled like she had fought a losing battle with traffic.
"I am back," she announced. "And I refuse to apologize for the delay."
Alexander's entire posture relaxed instantly. "You are forgiven."
Lucas grinned. "See? He was suffering."
Evelyn eyed Alexander suspiciously. "Were you dramatic?"
"Yes," Alexander said without shame. "Terribly."
