Chapter 344

A radiant smile lit up Evelyn's face. "That sounds wonderful! I'd love to give it a try!"

After all, financial constraints were no longer an issue for her.

The inability to learn piano as a child due to lack of funds had always been a lingering regret. This was her chance to finally fulfill that dream.

Margaret practically bounced with excitement. "You absolutely should, Evelyn! Christopher is an excellent piano teacher. He can guide you through it."

Christopher had yet to reveal his true identity as a renowned pianist. Soon, he would need to assemble his team to establish a prestigious music academy right here in Bern City.

No matter what it took, he was determined to turn his little white lie into reality.

Evelyn and Christopher spent a few minutes discussing lesson schedules.

When she returned from freshening up, the living room was empty.

She glanced toward the balcony—no sign of him there either. "Where did he go?"

"He had to leave suddenly for an urgent matter. But he left this for you." Margaret handed her a sleek black card.

The sight of the credit card stirred conflicting emotions. Ever since her brothers' careers had taken off, they'd been showering her with financial support.

She turned the card over in her fingers. "Aunt Margaret... should I really accept this? You always taught me to maintain my dignity, no matter how poor we were."

"Oh, sweetheart. This is from your own brother. You're family now. I asked Christopher—he said this amount means nothing to them. Consider it your allowance."

"You're all going to be there for each other through life's ups and downs. That's what family does."

Evelyn's lips curved. "You're my family too, you know."

"Evelyn, Alexander mentioned that paying off the house installments alone would take you forever. They can cover it for you first."

"Olivia doesn't mind at all. Just think about it—you can always pay them back later. It's really no trouble."

"I'll consider it."

"I'm just so glad to see your family treating you well, Evelyn. Family should support each other."

"With such loving brothers looking out for you, why not enjoy the privilege? Don't be so hard on yourself. Not everyone is blessed with six devoted brothers. What's stopping you?"

Back in her room, Margaret's words echoed in Evelyn's mind. Was she really being too distant with her brothers?

Her fingers traced the edge of the credit card as her other hand rested on her abdomen.

She pulled out her phone and dialed Alexander, who answered immediately. "Evelyn? Everything alright?"

"Are you busy right now?"

"Never too busy for you. What's on your mind?" He closed his laptop and moved to a quieter space.

She repeated Margaret's advice. "Alexander... do you think I've been too guarded with all of you?"

A soft exhale came through the line. "We understand we found you late, Evelyn. Sibling bonds take time to build. We're patient—we'll wait for you to fully accept us."

After a thoughtful pause, she spoke again. "Then I'd like to take you up on that offer. Could you lend me the money to pay off the house in full?"

She could practically hear his smile through the phone. "It would be my pleasure."

The next morning, Evelyn went straight to the bank to arrange the lump sum payment.

Just as she took her queue number, she collided with someone familiar.

"Evelyn? What brings you here so early?" Jonathan sounded genuinely surprised to see her.