Chapter 31

“You’re still my wife. Even if you don’t care about your reputation, I care about mine!” he snapped, teeth clenched, brows furrowed. If Lily found out, their divorce would be public knowledge. No way Alexander would let this mess happen on his watch! Until the divorce was final, Elizabeth had to play nice!

“When you’re flaunting your fiancée, it’s fine. But when I kiss someone, it’s shameful?” Elizabeth shot back.

Alexander’s throat tightened, his gaze darkening, his grip tightening. He lowered his voice. “Elizabeth, I’m giving you a way out. Don’t push it.” He didn’t believe she really wanted to kiss that guy.

Seeing his anger, Elizabeth smiled seductively. “Are you offering me an excuse, or just losing your cool?” Elizabeth’s lips curled as she scrutinized Alexander’s handsome face.

Alexander frowned, annoyed she could read him so well. He swallowed, his gaze turning icy. “Elizabeth, we’re getting divorced. You really think I still care?”

Elizabeth’s heart skipped a beat, memories flooding back of what he’d said that day. “Elizabeth, don’t fool yourself into thinking I could ever love you!” And now, here he was, same tone. “You still think I care?”

Alexander let go of her hand, his face blank. “Even if you’re not concerned about the media or Grandma Lily finding out, you should at least consider your date’s feelings.”

Elizabeth bit her lip, staring at him, sadness welling up. After a moment, she whispered, “You’re right.” Her words only made Alexander angrier. Elizabeth turned to Joseph, eyes full of apology. “Joseph, I’m sorry. Just now…”

“It’s okay,” Joseph cut her off.

“Elizabeth, ran into a friend? It’s pretty lively here,” came Declan’s cheerful voice from behind.

Everyone turned. Declan’s smile vanished the moment he saw Alexander. He hadn’t expected to see him here. Declan stormed over, putting himself between Elizabeth and Alexander. “Did he mess with you, Elizabeth?” he demanded.

Elizabeth’s eyes went dull. “No, Dad.”

Alexander, keeping his cool, nodded. “Dad.” They’d crossed paths in business so many times, calling him “Dad” had become second nature.

“Don’t call me that!” Declan snapped. “Elizabeth’s not good enough for you. You don’t need to call me Dad.”

Alexander was at a loss for words. “Elizabeth, let’s go! We’re not staying in this cursed place!” Declan grabbed her hand and pulled her away.

Alexander watched her leave, eyes dark and brooding. He slumped into a chair, troubled.

“Alexander.” Esme knelt beside him, taking his hand. “I know it’s tough. I’m here with you.”

He looked down, gently stroking her hair before hugging her. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Elizabeth hesitate at the door. Elizabeth’s breath caught seeing them together. Even though she knew how much they loved each other, it still hurt. She walked over to grab her forgotten phone. Alexander let go of Esme and stood up, looking like he wanted to say something.

Outside, Joseph asked, “Elizabeth, did you find your phone?”

Alexander felt a tug on his fingers. He looked down to see Esme staring up at him, confused.