Chapter 64
Simon Whitmore lowered his voice in a lazy drawl. “Where’s the pleasure in coercion? I’d much rather watch you come to me of your own accord.”
Elena Bennett met Simon’s gaze. Beneath his dark lashes lay a flash of steel so sharp she felt it could swallow her whole. She didn’t understand it–only that it frightened her.
A heartbeat later, Simon’s expression slid back into its usual mixture of aristocratic poise and careless arrogance. Without another word, he stepped out of the restroom.
Elena steadied her racing pulse, smoothed her skirt, and returned to the banquet hall.
The moment Sir Whitmore spotted her, he beamed and drew her close, eager to talk.
Sir Whitmore asked warmly, “Ellie, where did you wander off to? I’ve been hunting for you everywhere.”
“I only stepped into the restroom, Sir Whitmore. Did you need me for something?
Smiling with grandfatherly affection, Sir Whitmore guided her to a sofa and murmured, “Nothing urgent, child. I just wanted you to know–no matter what anyone says, you are the only granddaughter in law I recognize.”
Elena parted her lips, a sting of emotion pricking the tip of her nose.
Sir Whitmore went on, “All that nonsense about theft–i knew you were wronged. I watched you grow up, I know your character. I also understand what really happened today, yet some knots can’t be untied right away. What I can promise is this: you alone are my chosen granddaughter–in–law, I won’t acknowledge anyone else.”
Across the hall, Annabelle Bennett overheard him. She clenched her fists so hard her back molars nearly cracked.
After everything she had done, Sir Whitmore still refused to spare her a single glance, insisting on handing the title to a counterfeit heiress!
What was Elena Bennett, anyway? All her life that woman had every wish granted. Now Annabelle had finally come home, yet the imposter still enjoyed luxury and honor?
No–Annabelle would never let Elena destroy her happiness.
Seething, Annabelle wheeled around and ran off.
Elena’s feelings tangled together–joy and sorrow in equal measure.
Joy, because Sir Whitmore trusted her so deeply, sorrow, because fate would not permit her to become part of his family.
Elena said softly, “Sir Whitmore, I never dreamed anyone in this world would treat me like true kin. Thank you for believing in me. But please consider this if Victor truly cherished me, I wouldn’t be in this position today. He isn’t the right man. Though we cannot be related by marriage, I will still honor you as my own grandfather.”
Her words left Sir Whitmore blinking back tears.
He had pleaded with Elena more than once, now it was clear she genuinely wished to cut all ties with his grandson.
Even so, he would never allow Annabelle to marry Victor..
The Whitmore family would not admit anyone who relied on petty schemes and gossip.
Annabelled to Adaline, threw herself into her mother’s arms, and burst into loud sobs.
“Mom, I don’t want to live anymore…
14:08 Tue, 29 Jul © G
Chapter 64
Adaline’s heart shattered. “What’s wrong, sweetheart? Tell me–who bullied you?”
“I just heard Grandpa say he’ll only recognize Elena as his granddaughter–in–law. He won’t let me marry Victor at all!”
“That’s impossible!” Adaline declared. “Your sister already broke off the engagement. She won’t marry Victor. He belongs to you.”
“But Grandpa won’t listen! In his eyes only Elena is worthy, Mom, I’ve done so much–what am I, then?”
Adaline stroked her daughter’s hair. “Hush.
find a
ay to see you and Victor married soon.” a way
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.