Episode 64
Elizabeth remained silent, chiming in only when spoken to. Just as she was about to try a piece of black pepper steak, Melany stopped her.
“This steak is loaded with black pepper; it’s not good for you. It might leave marks.” Kailee, with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes, quickly swapped her less spicy dish for Elizabeth’s steak, adding, “Indeed, you should avoid it, Elizabeth. Keeping up appearances for the camera is crucial, after all.” Melany’s brow furrowed in confusion.
“Keeping up appearances for what camera?” The elderly couple, devoted to their serene and introspective lifestyle, remained blissfully unaware of modern online trends.
Elizabeth started to explain, but Kailee quickly interrupted. “Elizabeth has taken up acting recently, though her role isn’t secured yet. It’s already creating quite a buzz…” “Eat your dinner,” Elijah interjected sharply, his gaze icy.
Melany, with a stern glance at him, turned back to Kailee. “Go on, what buzz?”
“Elijah, this isn’t my fault,” Kailee said hastily, her voice betraying her fear of being cut off. “Listen, Melany, Elizabeth and Elijah’s ex-girlfriend were both up for the same role. Unfortunately, Elizabeth didn’t get it and was mocked on social media. Fortunately, their marriage hadn’t been publicized, or the Norris Group’s shares might have suffered.”
Melany’s face darkened, a storm brewing in her eyes. She turned to Elijah, her voice laced with frustration. “Elijah, she’s your ex. That’s history. Elizabeth is your wife now, bound by law. Can’t you see who you should be supporting?”
Shawn, who had been quiet, finally spoke. “Even though your marriage to Elizabeth isn’t public knowledge, your friends and relatives know. Don’t repeat this mistake.”
Kailee, caught off guard by Shawn and Melany’s staunch defense of Elizabeth and their criticism of Elijah, bit her lip and fell silent.
Elijah, with a gesture of peace, placed a piece of fish on Melany’s plate, murmuring, “I understand.”
“Elijah, it’s easy to say the right thing, but I want to see you act on it,” Melany retorted sharply, her quick tap on his hand leaving a red mark. “You don’t need to fuss over me. Why don’t you look after your wife instead? Her favorite beef dish is sitting untouched.”
Following her comment, Elijah served Elizabeth a slice of beef. Elizabeth, watching Elijah’s uncharacteristic humility, smiled.
Catching her smile, Elijah added a shrimp to her plate, his eyes softening. “Am I that amusing when I’m being scolded?” he teased.
Elizabeth took a delicate bite of the shrimp, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “This shrimp is quite delightful.” Sensing her mood lightening, Elijah started to mend their rift, beginning, “Tonight, I’d like to—” But before he could finish, his phone rang, shattering the moment. It was an unusual oversight, as Elijah always silenced his phone during meals. The sudden interruption drew everyone’s attention to him.