Chapter 97
Isla paced slowly across the large study, her steps soft against the carpeted floor. Her mind was running in circles, trying to piece everything together. It all made sense now–at least most of it. Now she knew why Alfred had always liked her, why he’d treated her differently from the others.
Still, questions remained like shadows in her thoughts. What did he mean by “next time“? She knew he hadn’t told her everything.
Alfred watched her with quiet amusement, a faint smile curving his lips. He was proud of her composure, of the strength she carried even in confusion. He had chosen right this time. Isla was the woman who would bring stability and sanity back to this family.
Anna had failed him, and he had accepted it. Now, he was ready to sever ties with the royal home completely, no matter the cost. There was no need to mend what had already been broken; it was better to build something new.
Isla finally turned to him, her voice soft but steady. “About my husband… don’t you think I should know who his real mother is p>
The question hung for far longer than she thought. She hadn’t meant to ask it, but it slipped out before she could stop herself.
Alfred’s expression hardened slightly as he studied her. For a brief moment, he considered telling her everything. But then he changed his mind. If he revealed the truth now, it could destroy her–especially in her condition. Her early pregnancy was too precious, too important to risk. This child meant more to him than his own life, though Isla didn’t yet understand why. In time, she would.
“Be patient, my dear,” he finally said in a calm, reassuring tone. “Very soon, you’ll get to meet her p>
Isla’s eyes brightened, a spark of hope flickering within them. She’s alive, she realized. Somewhere out there, Gabriel’s real mother still lived.
“Does Gabriel know?” she asked eagerly. “I mean… What about Wyatt and Landon p>
The old man exhaled deeply, a hint of frustration escaping his chest. This woman was too sharp for her own good. “Isla,” he began slowly, “there are things—many things—that you and others don’t know. But I’ll tell you a few, only if you promise to stop asking questions after this p>
Isla nodded quickly and returned to her seat, eyes glistening with curiosity. Her fingers clenched slightly against her knees, bracing herself for whatever was coming.
“Just as Gabriel isn’t Anna’s son,” Alfred said quietly, “neither are Wyatt and Landon. They don’t know the truth, and I intend to keep it that way—at least for now. I would appreciate it if you never speak of this to anyone. Not even your husband p>
Isla stared at him, stunned. Her heart was thundering. How many secrets does this family hide? she wondered. She knew herself too well–she wouldn’t rest until she uncovered them all.
Alfred noticed the fire in her eyes and gave a small chuckle. He admired her spirit, but it also worried him. He leaned forward slightly, his voice turning more serious.
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“Listen to me, Isla. You need to focus on your family now. Stop digging into other people’s business. Stop whatever you’re trying to find about Delphine. You might end up hurting yourself and your unborn child in the
process.
Isla frowned slightly, puzzled. She couldn’t understand what he meant.
“Gabriel knew that Delphine wasn’t pregnant,” Alfred revealed, his tone calm but firm. “Yet he took responsibility. He had his reasons–and you must be patient with him p>
Isla’s lips parted slightly in disbelief. Just who was this man? For a second, she half–joked in her mind that he sounded more like a mafia don than a grandfather.
“If you’re wondering how I know all this,” Alfred added, smiling faintly, “it’s because I have ears everywhere, Isla. So don’t trouble yourself. Anna won’t bother you anymore. She has her battles to fight p>
He rose slowly from his chair, leaning on his cane for support. “Now, it’s time for you to go home and rest. Prepare yourself for what’s coming. I think it’s finally time I do what I should have done long ago. I’m not getting any younger p>
His words felt like riddles–strange, unfinished, and full of meaning she couldn’t yet grasp. But Isla decided not to push. For now, she would do exactly as he said.
“Alright, grandfather,” she said softly, a teasing smile tugging at her lips. “I’ll do that. And… Thank you for causing trouble in my marriage p>
Alfred laughed a genuine, hearty laugh that filled the study. He admired her boldness. Unlike the others, Isla had never feared him. She respected him deeply, but she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. That alone made her special.
Florence
Florence is a passionate reader who finds joy in long drives on rainy days. She’s also a fan of Italian makeup tutorials, blending beauty and elegance into her everyday life.