Episode 68
“As long as I’m alive, I won’t allow him to marry Sandra!” Her voice rose, thick with indignation. Elizabeth interjected calmly but firmly, “Melany, emotions can’t be forced. I’m telling you this because I respect you and don’t want to deceive you any longer. Please don’t be angry. It’s simply that Elijah and I… we were never meant to be.” Elizabeth’s eyes dropped, her voice heavy with bitterness and resignation.
Observing Elizabeth’s demeanor, Melany understood that persuasion would be futile. That foolish Elijah didn't know how to appreciate her. Let him regret it later! Perhaps Elizabeth would find happiness elsewhere.
“Alright, dear. If a divorce is what you want, I won’t stand in your way,” she said softly, her voice filled with love. “But remember this—whether you’re part of this family or not, you’ll always have a home here. Promise me you’ll visit Shawn and me often. The Norris Mansion will always have a room waiting for you.”
After bidding farewell to Melany and Shawn, Elizabeth left the Norris Mansion and slid into Oliver’s car. As they drove through the estate’s gates, Oliver asked, “Mrs. Norris, where would you like me to take you?” “Just stop here,” Elizabeth replied, gathering the items Melany had given her, preparing to exit the vehicle.
Oliver appeared concerned. “Mrs. Norris, this area isn’t easily accessible by taxi. It would be inconvenient for you to find transportation. Please allow me to drive you to your destination.” Elizabeth’s tone was resolute. “No need. My agent will pick me up nearby.” After a moment’s hesitation, Oliver reluctantly opened the car door, his worry evident. “Mrs. Norris, if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to call me.” Elizabeth ignored him and walked down a narrow path, disappearing from view.
Oliver called Elijah, but the call wouldn’t connect. He realized it might be the day Sandra was signing a contract with the production team. He steered the car towards her talent agency.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth hadn’t gone far when her phone buzzed. It was Ruby, sounding apologetic. “Elizabeth, my car’s broken down, and I’m waiting for a tow truck. No clue how long it’ll take. You might have to find your own ride back.” “Got it, no worries,” Elizabeth replied calmly, ending the call.
She turned, only to find Oliver’s car already gone, its taillights swallowed by the darkness.
The Norris Mansion sat nestled in Orkset’s most exclusive neighborhood, perched atop a wooded hillside. Sprawling estates surrounded it, and the road downhill stretched long and lonely. Above, the sky brooded, heavy with storm clouds. Not a sliver of moonlight pierced the dense gray, and the wind hissed through the trees like a whispered warning. The chill air prompted her to tug her coat tighter and quicken her pace.
After nearly twenty minutes of walking downhill, the glow of the main road’s lights flickered through the trees. Relief washed over her—it couldn’t be more than a kilometer away. She booked a ride.
Just as the confirmation appeared on her screen, the heavens opened with a dramatic crack of lightning. Thunder rumbled, and raindrops the size of marbles began falling.
Elizabeth raised her bag overhead as a shield and ran, her shoes splashing through muddy puddles. By the time she reached the roadside, she was drenched, her hair plastered to her face, and her coat heavy with water.
The white Volkswagen she had booked pulled up, its headlights cutting through the downpour. But before she could approach, a gleaming silver Maybach swept in front, its door swinging open to reveal Oliver, holding a large black umbrella, which he quickly angled over her. Without pausing, he gestured to the back seat.