Chapter 1065

"That's why I said it's my duty as a grandmother to help you prepare for the wedding. It's no bother at all. Even if it's troublesome, I'm happy to help," Margaret said, her smile less benevolent than it once was. She anticipated Alexander's refusal, continuing, "Of course, it's important for Lily to rest since she's pregnant, but she can't stay home all day. It's not good for the baby. Lily, you need to get some fresh air occasionally.

"Alex, you've been with your grandfather since childhood and haven't spent much time with me. You've been so busy since you grew up. Since it's so rare for us to be together, you should spend some time with me now.

"Can you do that for me? I'm getting older, and I don't have much time left. I thought, why not enjoy our time while I still can?" Tears welled in Margaret's eyes, and a look of sadness clouded her face. Alexander and Lily sat in silence. They usually responded better to gentle persuasion than confrontation. They'd expected Margaret to be firm, but she'd chosen a different tactic this time, even mentioning Hugo to make it harder for Alexander to refuse.

"Grandma, that's not what I meant," Alexander said. "I just feel..."

"He just feels you might get too tired," Lily interjected. "It's not that we don't appreciate your kindness, but we're afraid you might get stressed. Still, you're right. I should go for a walk instead of being bored at home all day.

"I told Alex I wanted to go for a walk, but he wouldn't let me. He's being a bit overprotective. Since we agree, accompany me on a walk!" Lily smiled at her husband.

Margaret's eyes brightened. Wiping away her tears, she smiled. "You're very thoughtful and know how to care for the elderly, Lily. Since your wife has agreed, what do you think, Alex? Shall we go?"

Alexander, looking helpless, glanced at Lily and said dotingly, "Okay. I know you've been bored at home for a long time, so let's go out together."

While Margaret discreetly searched the house for the handbook, the couple changed their clothes. The house was vast, making her search challenging. She'd done all she could; now it was up to Ralph.

Margaret sat scanning the house as the couple descended the stairs. Casually, she slipped a ring from her finger into the gap between the sofa cushions, then stood. "All right, let's go!"

The three got into the car and drove away. Ten minutes later, Ralph's car arrived near the gate, honking loudly.

"Mr. Ralph, Mr. Russell has just left. Please come back another day," the housekeeper said.

"Oh, what a coincidence! It doesn't matter; I'm not in a hurry. I can wait for them to return," Ralph said, patting the steering wheel, showing no intention of leaving.

"I'm sorry, sir. We can't let you in since Mr. Russell isn't home," the housekeeper replied.

"What? Do you know who I am? I'm his uncle! Why can't I visit my nephew's house?!" Ralph exclaimed, dissatisfied. "Open the door, or I'll have him fire you!" However, Alexander's housekeepers were well-trained and obeyed only his orders. They refused to admit Ralph, even though he was Alexander's uncle. "I'm sorry, sir. I cannot let you in. Please forgive me."