Chapter 927
Margaret appeared fierce, but fear of her husband, Hugo, was her true nature. During his lifetime, she dared not voice dissent. He was the family patriarch; she remained silent, even regarding her dislike of her eldest daughter-in-law and grandson. Hugo intended to entrust the family business to them, providing guidance. Despite her dissatisfaction, she remained powerless until his death. Then, she sought control, believing herself capable. However, Alexander, now grown, ignored her, fueling her resentment. He had lived away from the Russell Estate for years. Margaret didn't care; he was an eyesore. Yet, his impending marriage and the introduction of a new family member could not be ignored.
Margaret intended to slap Lily, but Alexander's intervention to protect her ignited Margaret's fury. It mirrored Hugo's protection of his daughter-in-law, deepening her anger. "Alexander! Don't forget I'm your grandmother!" she exclaimed angrily.
"Of course, I remember. Not only as my grandmother, but also how you treated me, my family, and my parents since childhood," he replied coldly. "Grandma, given your age, you should enjoy your retirement. You have many children and grandchildren. Focus on them; don't concern yourself with other matters!"
"How rude!" Margaret trembled with rage at the implication.
"Indeed, Grandma. Otherwise, how could you manage the Russell family's extensive business, ensure our comfort, and then have leisure for other pursuits?" he countered, raising his head.
Celine, recognizing the inopportune moment for her plan and feeling remorse for her earlier impulsiveness, quickly intervened. "Mom, it's been a long day. You need rest. Let's go home," she said, pulling Margaret away. Turning to Alexander, she added, "Alexander, please change and apply some ointment. I didn't mean to do that," she said hesitantly, employing the most humble approach possible, short of apologizing. As an elder, she couldn't apologize to the younger generation, especially for a matter unrelated to her.
"Don't worry, Aunt Celine," Alexander replied coldly.
Celine calmly urged Margaret, "Mom, let's go home and let them rest."
Margaret, furious, snorted and slowly departed. At the door, Alexander called, "Wait!"
They paused, believing him to have changed his mind. Instead, he instructed the housekeeper, "Take everything they brought back to their car. We don't need it."
Margaret's face paled. "Oh, what a grandson!" she muttered, fiercely turning and leaving.
Once alone, Lily impatiently unbuttoned Alexander's shirt. "Let me see the burn. Why did you rush in? The water wasn't that hot. I could have dodged it, and even if it spilled, it wouldn't have mattered!" she exclaimed, a mix of anger and anxiety. His self-sacrifice enraged and frightened her. What if he was badly scalded?