Chapter 1064

Looking back, he felt like a monkey tricked into a snare. He'd believed his charm would easily win her affection, but she only wanted his coveted secret handbook. All those kisses, all that coaxing—for a stupid handbook? What kind of woman was she? He'd never encountered such a person and felt utterly bewildered.

Now, however, it no longer mattered. His obsession with marrying her had vanished. Plenty of other women existed; why limit himself to Heather? After securing the Riggs shares and assuming control of the Russell family, he could easily acquire any woman he desired. It was far preferable to keeping a ticking time bomb at his side. This thought brought him considerable comfort. His most pressing concern was obtaining the handbook.

He drove slowly, in no hurry. Margaret needed time to draw them away. Once they left, he could conveniently retrieve what he sought.

In the Russell house, Margaret smiled amiably at Lily. "I was too harsh earlier, but I've had a change of heart. Your wedding with Alex is approaching, and I haven't gotten you anything substantial. This pair of gold bracelets was my dowry. Though the style is outdated, the design remains classic. Consider it a good luck charm."

Lily gazed at the bracelets, gently refusing. "Grandma, these are far too expensive. I couldn't possibly accept them." The bracelets were exquisite; the gold gleamed, radiating opulence. Margaret must have spent a considerable sum.

"Nonsense! You're my granddaughter-in-law, carrying my great-grandson. Why wouldn't you accept a gift from me?" Before Lily could protest further, Margaret pressed on. "Refusal would mean you haven't forgiven me, that you still blame your grandmother."

Did older people frequently employ such manipulative tactics? Lily glanced at Alexander, who sat beside her. Lately, he’d been working from home, spending considerable time with her—and guarding her, preventing her from handling certain items while pregnant, ensuring her safety.

Alexander's eyes softened. "Since Grandma offered, accept them. It's a gesture of her kindness."

"Exactly! Accept them!" Margaret beamed. "Customarily, I should participate in your wedding preparations, but lately…" She paused, coughing lightly. "I was being stubborn, upset you married without telling me. I understand now. I'm not sure what you young people prefer. The weather's lovely. Shall we go shopping? I'd like to choose some gifts for you. Let's spend some time together."

Her words were reasonable, difficult to refuse.

Lily looked embarrassed. "I rarely go out these days; Alex prefers I stay home."

"Yes, Lily's pregnant. It's best she rests and minimizes outings. Besides, Grandma, you needn't prepare anything. We're all set," Alexander interjected, firmly declining.