Chapter 914

Although she had decided to wait, Celine remained on edge, her impatience fueled by a simmering rage she hadn't felt in some time. Just as her irritability threatened to overwhelm her, her phone rang. The caller ID brought a surge of unexpected joy.

"Alex!"

"I heard you're at my house, Aunt Celine," Alexander replied coldly.

"Why didn't you tell me beforehand so I could prepare?"

"Prepare for what? I'm your aunt! I was passing by and decided to visit," she said with a forced smile.

"Unfortunately, I'm not home," he responded. "Why don't you head back? I'll visit when I'm free."

"It's fine. Your wife is home!" she replied, then added hesitantly, "Alex, your wife seems…unresponsive. I rang the bell twice, but no one opened the gate. I've been waiting outside."

She continued, "I understand young people are more cautious these days, especially given recent news. I'll wait for you. Don't worry about me."

"Didn't one of my maids tell you my wife hasn't been feeling well and is mostly in bed? Did you not hear her, or did you not understand?" Alexander's tone was sharp. Celine's attempt to paint Lily in a negative light had backfired.

"Oh? In that case, I should take a look. My niece-in-law's health is important. Should I take her to the hospital?" This was the perfect excuse. Exiting her car, she approached the gate. "You men are too casual. Her illness could be serious. I'll take her to the hospital and call you if there are any problems."

"It's fine, Aunt Celine. I've already had a doctor see her. She'll be fine with rest, as long as she's not bothered by…loafers," he subtly dismissed her.

Celine's face fell. "Alex, are you calling me a loafer?"

"I hope not," he replied, though his meaning was clear. She, however, missed the subtle insult, interpreting his response favorably.

"Exactly," she said, her tone softening. "I'm just checking on her. Even the 'ugliest' wife needs to meet her in-laws. Let me offer some advice. Then, when she meets Grandma, she'll pass with flying colors."

"The only test my wife needs to pass is mine," Alexander retorted ruthlessly.

Celine's composure shattered. "Alexander! Who do you think you are? Do you think you can run from the Russell family? You're still a Russell, and you answer to the elders!"

"I'm a Russell only because of my father. If I had a choice, I wouldn't be. Aunt Celine, you're overstepping," he said calmly.

Celine was speechless. "Alex, your father would be disappointed in how you treat us."

"Even if he is, I'll listen to him directly, not through someone else. Otherwise, how can I know the message is accurate?"

"All right, enough. We'll talk when you get back." She hung up, unwilling to continue the argument. She would use this opportunity to intimidate Lily while Alexander remained away.