In his mind, he envisioned her soon recognizing the advantages of being Mrs. Norris and the security his influence offered. He was prepared to wait for her return, certain she would eventually yield.

Just then, Elijah’s phone buzzed insistently. He glanced warily at the screen before reluctantly answering. His grandmother, Melany Norris, spoke urgently, her tone thick with concern.

“Elijah, where are you? Oliver told me Elizabeth was hurt. How is she recovering? You know how important appearances are for a young woman. What if it leaves a scar? How will she feel about wearing skirts again? Make sure you take excellent care of her!”

The mention of an injury widened Elijah’s eyes in surprise; confusion flickered across his features. Yet, he kept his voice steady.

“I’m still at the office, Grandma. Her recovery is progressing well.”

As he spoke, images of Elizabeth’s bandaged leg and the hospital visit flooded his mind, piecing together the details. Elizabeth had indeed been at the fire—possibly injured in the chaos. A twinge of concern, mixed with guilt, pulled at his heartstrings, briefly darkening his mood.

On the other end, Melany’s voice softened, filled with gentle advice.

“Elijah, remember, she’s the one you chose to marry. It’s your responsibility to protect and cherish her. Don’t let your aloof nature push her away, especially now. She’s likely still shaken from the fire. Don’t forget to offer her comfort and support.”

She paused, her voice reflective. “Your grandfather and I will be back at the Norris Mansion in a few days. We’d love for you both to visit. Bring Elizabeth along.”

“Understood,” Elijah replied, dismissing Melany curtly before hanging up. He immediately dialed an internal number.

“Mr. Norris, how can I assist you?” Oliver, summoned unexpectedly, appeared confused until he met Elijah’s intense gaze.

“What’s the latest on the fire investigation? And how did my grandmother know about Elizabeth’s injury before I did?”

Oliver immediately understood. He quickly explained, “Your grandmother called earlier to inquire about Mrs. Norris’s condition. I had no choice but to share the details of her injury. As for—”

Oliver hesitated, recalling how their conversation had abruptly ended when he mentioned Elizabeth’s name, and Elijah had cut him off. Carefully, he continued, “I was about to inform you of Mrs. Norris’s accident, but at that moment, Ms. Nash collapsed from a heart issue during her audition, and you rushed her to the hospital…”

Hospital. The memory struck Elijah. He remembered encountering Elizabeth as he hurried Sandra to emergency care, and their later encounter at the hospital. At that moment, he had assumed Elizabeth’s fall was a ploy for his attention.