Chapter 19

Elizabeth took a deep breath, gently holding Lily’s arm. "Grandma, it's all just gossip." No way was Elizabeth admitting to the divorce in front of Lily. If Lily got involved, the divorce would never happen, and Alexander would never marry the woman he loved. He already couldn't stand her, and she didn't want to live the rest of her life in his contempt.

"Look at me, all dressed up today. Do I look like I'm getting…"

Alexander felt a bit relieved but also suspicious of Elizabeth. He frowned, thinking, "Why did Lily show up on the day of the divorce? Did Elizabeth tip her off? Does she not want the divorce?"

"I don't buy it. You must've mentioned divorce!"

Elizabeth sighed, "Grandma, these days, rumors spread like wildfire! You're too smart to fall for that." She shot a shy glance at Alexander and told Lily, "Grandma, you know how hard I worked to marry him. Why would I give up so easily?"

"Even if I die, I want to die with him!" Elizabeth said earnestly.

Alexander lowered his eyes, chuckling softly. The words felt familiar. Maybe she’d said them before.

Lily still looked skeptical, "Really?"

"Of course, Grandma! It's so sunny outside. Let's go in."

Once inside, the bodyguards dumped all of Lily’s things on the dining table. Lily noticed the sunset painting was missing from the living room. "Where's the painting?" she asked.

Alexander was about to say it was being repaired, but Elizabeth cut in, "I didn't like it anymore, so I tossed it."

Alexander glanced at Elizabeth. She was so nonchalant, like she’d thrown away more than just a painting.

Lily nodded. "You two should get a wedding photo up there. It'd look great."

Elizabeth smiled. "Sure, when we get the time."

"Grandma, you shouldn't come over so much. If you miss me, just call, and I'll come visit."

Lily was quick to avoid another incident like today. She’d already taken all her things from the house. She knew if she kept coming, their divorce would eventually come out.

"You both are so busy. It's easier for me to come here, I don't get tired!"

Elizabeth shot Alexander a look, urging him to say something. He just stood there, unsure.

"Is the food I made good?" Lily asked Elizabeth.

Elizabeth nodded. "Delicious."

Chapter 19

"If you like it, I’ll make it again in a few days!" Lily smiled, holding Elizabeth’s hand. "Elizabeth, if Alexander ever wrongs you, please forgive him."

Lily then said something like that, hinting at his mess with Esme.

"Got it," Elizabeth nodded.

Honestly, Lily felt bad for Elizabeth. She knew she was putting her in a tough spot. Elizabeth loved Alexander, but Alexander loved someone else.

"Alright, you two seem fine, so I'm out. Got a poker game with friends. Don't wanna waste your time!"

She stood up and walked out smoothly. Elizabeth and Alexander trailed behind.

Elizabeth swallowed her food and whispered to Alexander, "Let's hit the City Clerk's Office again later."

"Sure," Alexander agreed right away.

Lily smiled at them. As she got into the car, a bodyguard said, "Mrs. Lily Tudor, I checked. The City Clerk's Office confirmed Mr. Alexander Tudor and Mrs. Elizabeth Tudor haven't divorced." His voice was just loud enough for Elizabeth and Alexander to hear. Their faces changed instantly. Lily looked pleased, shut the car door, and the car drove off. It was clear Lily wanted them to hear that.

"Was this part of your plan too?" Alexander’s cold voice suddenly sounded in Elizabeth’s ear.

Elizabeth looked up at Alexander, confused. "Playing dumb? Why did Grandmother come over this morning? You don't know?" Alexander squinted, eyes full of judgment.

Elizabeth finally got it. He thought she had called Lily over on purpose? Elizabeth was speechless, not sure what to say. Whatever she said, he’d call it a lie. Once Alexander made up his mind, he rarely changed it.

With a stare, Alexander told Elizabeth, "If you don't want a divorce, just say it. Stop wasting my time."

Elizabeth laughed. She’d bent over backward to keep Lily happy, worried their divorce would hurt her health. And he thought she was scheming to avoid the split? "You really think I'm that awful?"

Chapter 19