Chapter 441

Lily remembered her grandfather's refusal to admit defeat. He'd risen at five every morning to exercise. Even in his old age, Wilfred had been remarkably fit, able to stand straight and run swiftly. Now, however, he was confined to a wheelchair. He'd always preferred standing, and although he downplayed it, the pain he endured was evident. He mumbled, "It's okay!" feeling embarrassed as Lily glanced at his knees, and quickly pulled his blanket over his lap.

"How long has it been since you left the Lodge family?" he asked.

"Seven or eight years, I think," Lily replied, her eyes dimming.

"Seven years and three months, to be precise," Justin interjected promptly. Lily was speechless. "Seems you've adapted well to life outside," Wilfred commented.

She was surprised by his gentle demeanor. She'd anticipated an argument, but instead, he seemed like a kind, ordinary grandfather. "Grandpa" she began, but he interrupted with a personal question: "You have a new boyfriend?"

Lily, momentarily stunned, nodded. "Yeah."

"Does he treat you well?" he asked.

"Yes," she replied, then feeling the single word inadequate, added, "Very well!"

Justin chimed in again, "Are you sure he's serious? When did he learn you're from the Lodge family?"

Lily stated with conviction, "I'm sure he is, and so am I. I was willful before, but trust me, I don't repeat mistakes." Justin started to speak, but Wilfred raised a hand, silencing him. The older man peered out the window, frowning towards someone downstairs. "Is that him?"

Lily followed his gaze. She saw Alexander approaching, guided by a servant. A warmth spread through her heart, softening her expression. She nodded. "Yeah."

"Alexander Russell," Wilfred murmured. "The head of the Russell family. Your choice this time is commendable."

There was no disapproval in his tone, but what did he mean by "this time"? Did he consider her previous choice terrible? Looking back, it certainly had been—Nathaniel had been a scoundrel, unworthy of her.

"Master," the servant called from outside. Alexander had arrived.

"Let him in." The door opened, and the servant stepped back. Alexander entered, his eyes scanning the room until they found Lily, at which point he visibly relaxed. Wilfred smiled faintly. "Alexander." He used his first name.

Alexander wasn't surprised. He approached Wilfred, bent down, and offered his hand politely. "Mr. Lodge, I wish you a long and prosperous life."

Wilfred looked at the outstretched hand but didn't shake it. "You still call me Mr. Lodge?"