Chapter 31
Grace's POV
"Dear, my eyes aren't what they used to be," Eleanor smiled gently. "I could use someone with your taste to help me decide."
"I'd be happy to help, Mrs. Morgan," I replied, noticing how the elderly couple watched me with unusual interest.
Ethan nodded approvingly. "We're looking for something special for our grandson's future partner, but frankly, we're out of touch with what young people prefer these days."
A slender woman with impeccable posture guided me toward a private changing area. "We've selected several pieces for you to try, Ms. Wilson. Each one represents a different aesthetic."
Over the next hour, I emerged from the dressing room six times, each appearance drawing exclamations of delight from Eleanor. The gowns were exquisite—each one probably cost more than most people's annual salary.
"Mrs. Morgan, please sit down," I insisted after the fourth dress. "You shouldn't tire yourself standing."
"Nonsense," she waved dismissively, though she did take a seat. "I've attended charity galas longer than your workdays, dear."
The fifth dress was a midnight blue creation that hugged my curves before flowing into a dramatic train. Eleanor clapped her hands in appreciation, but it was the sixth dress that changed everything.
Pure white, with a fitted bodice and a silhouette that flared gently from the knees, the dress was adorned with thousands of crystals that caught the light with every movement. It wasn't just a gown—it was unmistakably a wedding dress.
As I stood before the mirrors, memories flooded back. The Harrison family valued my talents but looked down on my background, not even bothering with a proper wedding. In the end, I discovered even the marriage certificate was fake.
"This is the one," Eleanor declared firmly. "Those crystal embellishments are simply perfect!"
The attendant suggested accessories. "Perhaps some jewelry to complete the look?"
My phone rang. Julie's name flashed on the screen.
"I'm sorry, but I need to handle a work situation," I said apologetically.
Ethan nodded understandingly. "Work comes first. Our driver will take you back."
In the luxury car heading toward Wilson Holdings, I found myself contemplating the Morgans' kindness. They treated me with a warmth I hadn't experienced in years—almost like family. It was disarming, especially from people I'd just met.
---
"This young lady tried on today—all of them, please adjust to her measurements," Ethan instructed the boutique owner. "Especially the white gown."
"And the jewelry sets too," Eleanor added.
The boutique owner looked between them. "These are all for Ms. Wilson, then?"
Ethan smiled. "Yes, have everything delivered to her office once they're ready."
Eleanor fidgeted with her diamond bracelet. "I hope she won't be upset with us for arranging everything without telling her."
---
I had been working for several hours, finally finishing after adjusting the last piece of data. Then my desk phone rang.
"Ms. Wilson, the Morgans are waiting for you."
I glanced at my watch—nearly eight o'clock. Why hadn't they gone home yet?
"I'll be right down."
When the elevator doors opened to the lobby, I was surprised to see Eleanor and Ethan Morgan waiting.
"Mr. and Mrs. Morgan? You're still waiting here?"
Eleanor stepped forward, concern etched on her elegant features. "Young people shouldn't work so hard without proper nourishment. We brought some food for you."
They had prepared an exquisite dinner from one of Starport's three-star Michelin restaurants, carefully packed in thermal containers.
So this is what it feels like to be genuinely cared for? I couldn't remember the last time someone had shown such concern.
"It's getting late—would you like to come to my apartment to enjoy this meal together?" I invited sincerely.
They agreed, and I added, "My place has guest rooms if it gets too late for you to return home."
---
In my apartment, the three of us enjoyed the delicious dinner in a warm, pleasant atmosphere.
The moment was interrupted by my phone ringing. I glanced at the screen and felt my expression change involuntarily.
The display showed "Alex Morgan."
"Alex?" I answered.
"Grace, have you seen an elderly couple at your company today?" he asked calmly.
I noticed Ethan and Eleanor exchange a quick glance. Ethan subtly shook his head, his eyes conveying a clear message: don't tell him we're here.
I cooperated, understanding his intent: "I haven't seen anyone. I've been busy with company matters all day."
Alex was silent for a moment, then hung up.
After putting down the phone, I asked directly: "You two... what is your relationship with Alex Morgan?"
Ethan straightened in his chair. "We are Alex's grandparents."
"I'm sorry we didn't tell you sooner," Eleanor took my hand.
I shook my head. Actually, when I first met them, I had sensed they must have some connection to Alex.
"We came to prepare engagement gifts for you and Alex. The ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow evening at eight. We've arranged everything at the Windsor Grand Hotel," Ethan calmly delivered the shocking news.
"Engagement? With Alex? But we haven't even—" I asked in disbelief.
Eleanor explained: "Our grandson is brilliant in business but terribly slow with relationships. We thought we'd give him a little push."
Ethan added: "We've been watching you since Robert passed away. You and Alex are perfect for each other. The alliance between our families is something everyone has been anticipating."
"So the dresses today..." I suddenly realized.
Eleanor confirmed with a smile: "Were for you, of course. You're going to be our granddaughter-in-law."
I was completely taken aback by this situation.
Just then, my doorbell rang. An elegant woman stood at the threshold: "Ms. Wilson? I'm the chief coordinator from the Windsor Hotel. Mr. Morgan asked me to deliver these items."
Several assistants wheeled in numerous exquisite boxes, including all the dresses and jewelry I had tried on earlier.
The coordinator explained: "Everything has been adjusted to your measurements. Mr. Morgan was most insistent that everything fit perfectly."
I opened the wedding dress box and found a matching set of jewelry with a handwritten card: "For my beloved granddaughter-in-law."
I thought to myself: "An engagement that even Alex himself doesn't know about?"
The doorbell rang again, and Alex appeared at the door, his expression stern: "I knew they would be here."