Episode 56
However, as her feelings deepened, and after their original agreement ended, Elizabeth timidly suggested a wedding. Elijah initially dodged her proposals with excuses. Eventually, he bluntly declared that since they were already legally married, any further ceremony was unnecessary and a waste of time.
Blinded by affection, Elizabeth rationalized his busy life and suppressed her desires, telling herself that life was imperfect, and what truly mattered was their life together. Reflecting now, she recognized her naiveté, realizing she had been far less perceptive than Yara.
Suppressing her growing sadness, Elizabeth managed a contrived smile. “At least having something is better than nothing. Holding the title of Mrs. James keeps me one step ahead of you. In our social circles, rank matters greatly.” She paused, inching closer to Yara with a sly tilt of her head. “Truth be told, if I set my sights on ruining you, there wouldn’t be a place for you in Orkset at all.” Elizabeth’s eyes twinkled mischievously as she observed Yara’s reaction.
With a knowing smile, she straightened, her hands unfolding as if displaying her helplessness. “Indeed, as you’ve mentioned, the title of Mrs. James carries substantial weight—something you and your mother can only dream of.” Yara bristled, her jaw clenching.
“Don’t get too full of yourself, Elizabeth. Your husband and Sandra have been all over the news lately. Who are you trying to impress? Will you not eventually be outclassed by Sandra, despite her inferior charm and lineage?” Yara’s voice sharpened. “I might never claim the title of Mrs. James, but tell me—how long can you truly cling to it?”
At that moment, a deep, resonant voice, rich as a cello, filled the air. “Since Elizabeth became my wife, she will remain my wife forever. We value unwavering faithfulness in my family—something your family doesn’t seem to share.”
Startled, Elizabeth spun around. Elijah approached, his silhouette outlined against the glowing sunlight, his features more defined and imposing than ever.