Chapter 999

Ralph tossed and turned all night, contemplating how to treat Heather the next day. After much deliberation, he dressed and went downstairs, noticing Heather's absence. The house was unusually quiet during breakfast.

"Where's Heather?" he asked suspiciously.

"A lady of her stature wouldn't eat with commoners," Celine muttered coldly, her dislike of Heather evident since the previous day. Unlike Lily, who lived elsewhere, Heather's presence in the Russell Estate was inescapable. Celine feared Heather's overbearing nature, already evident, would worsen after their marriage. Margaret's presence provided a temporary buffer; Celine worried about her future once Margaret was gone. This concern solidified her resolve to create a backup plan.

Margaret, gently reprimanding Celine, turned to Ralph. "Heather had business to attend to and left early. It's natural for a woman managing a large family business to be busy. Once you're married, remember to share her burdens."

"Of course, Mother," Ralph replied, descending the stairs. Margaret, with her impaired vision, only noticed the swollen wound on his lip as he drew closer.

"What happened to your mouth?!" she exclaimed.

Ralph instinctively touched his lips, his face flushing. Before he could invent an excuse, Celine, setting down her porridge, snorted. "Mother, must you ask? Some were so eager last night they couldn't wait to reach their room."

Ralph was caught off guard. So, she saw us.

Ignoring Ralph's reaction, Celine continued, "Who knew the cold and arrogant Ms. Riggs possessed such passion? Ralph, I'm happy for you, but remember the Russells are no less powerful than her family. Don't stoop too low; she might have hidden agendas. Be careful."

"I know," Ralph replied, grabbing his coat to leave.

"Aren't you having breakfast?" Margaret called.

"No, I'm leaving."

He departed. Initially, their marriage was a political arrangement. Now, his interest in Heather—gentle yet domineering, obedient yet ruthless—had deepened. Her enigmatic nature intrigued him.

Lily, unusually relaxed, was returning home after a morning out. Alexander's protective measures since her pregnancy—a constant entourage of bodyguards—had become somewhat irksome, though she understood his concern. His increased tension since Justin's arrival was palpable, but she refrained from questioning him. Feeling unproductive, she'd spent her time tending plants and watching television. That day, she'd shopped for unique essential oils, eager to analyze their components upon returning home.

As her car neared the house, it was blocked.