Chapter 336: Make a Formal Appearance (+5 Pearls)

Alexander and Isabella were inseparable, and their recent return to Yrinas made them hesitant to make any immediate announcements. They planned to wait until after their wedding to bring the young couple to Yrinas. They were also anxious because the branch family members couldn't currently access Isabella's thoughts. The peculiar situation surrounding Isabella remained unclear, so discretion was paramount.

The Quirks, naturally, also wished to know Isabella's feelings. At that moment, Isabella's mind was consumed by Alexander. She finally understood his previous emotional distance and indifference. He appeared uninterested, yet he subtly helped others behind the scenes. His reserved nature now made sense.

A deep ache filled Isabella's heart, and she longed to hold Alexander. When the Quirks inquired, she declared emphatically, "Wherever my husband is, that's where I'll be. I have no intention of being separated from him."

Alexander, arriving at the front door, overheard her passionate declaration. He froze, blushing, cleared his throat, and said, "I've mentioned before that you can accompany me to the office if you want. It won't disrupt my work."

Isabella was speechless. The Quirks, realizing Alexander had missed their earlier conversation, were relieved, then filled with laughter and tears at the couple's blatant affection. Alexander, however, wasn't oblivious. He remembered his grandfather's birthday; he sent gifts and occasionally video-chatted, but hadn't visited in person. His feelings about Yrinas were muted, but he wouldn't say no to returning. Yet, the thought of Isabella stirred him. He felt he should bring her to the event.

While Alexander pondered, Lionel called. Handling documents, Alexander smiled and said to Isabella, "Bella, could you answer the phone for me?"

Isabella answered. Before she could speak, Lionel's aged voice boomed, "Alexander, are you planning to skip my birthday banquet again?"

Startled, Isabella quickly recovered her composure. "Hello, Grandpa, this is Isabella. Please hold on; I'll get Alexander."

After a brief pause, Isabella handed Alexander the phone, avoiding unnecessary conversation. Recognizing his grandfather's voice, Alexander greeted him.

Lionel asked, "Was that your wife? You two are together during work hours? She even answered your calls? The rumors are true then." Despite his pleasant tone, his speech was labored, the hum of a respirator audible in the background.

"Bella's accompanying me to work, Grandpa. Why did you call?"

Observing Alexander, Isabella heard Lionel's deep voice. "This year marks my ninetieth birthday, and we have the largest gathering ever. As the head of the Quirk family, shouldn't you make a formal appearance with your wife?"

Alexander glanced at Isabella, who shrugged indifferently. Her silent message: I don't care about appearances. If Alexander doesn't like it, we won't go. Everything else is trivial.

Warmth filled Alexander's heart. He embraced her.

Lionel continued, without waiting for a reply, "I know my time is limited. I'm not sure I'll have another birthday. While I'm still around, I want to support you, be your backing, and pave the way for you…"

Lionel, in fact, had made a considerable effort. Among his descendants, only Alexander received personal calls. His persuasive tone was unique, considering Alexander's circumstances. (1.8K)