Chapter 705

Alexander Vance's expression instantly darkened.

Evelyn Ross let out a light, scornful laugh.

So, the power play started already?

Eleanor Vance frowned, her voice cold and hard.

"Hah, I was wondering why you were being so attentive today. So, this was your plan all along. Cecilia Evans, let me tell you, a love child is a love child. Don't even think about usurping a rightful heir's place! No matter how unlikable Julian is, he is my legitimate great-grandson. As for you—I haven't even acknowledged you yet!"

Cecilia Evans's face immediately turned ashen.

Eleanor Vance waved a dismissive hand.

"I'm tired. You may leave now."

Cecilia Evans took a deep breath, still wanting to say more.

But Evelyn Ross had already stepped forward, speaking with a cold smile.

"Will you leave on your own, or shall I have you escorted out?"

Cecilia Evans immediately straightened up.

"I'll leave."

She shot Evelyn a venomous glare before turning to walk out.

As she passed Alexander Vance, she paused again, lowering her voice.

"Uncle Alexander, even though Victoria Lawrence didn't marry Julian, she still thinks of you. Perhaps you should consider—"

"Get out."

The single word from Alexander was like ice.

Cecilia Evans shuddered, not daring to say another word, and hurried away.

Hearing the commotion, Eleanor Vance turned her head, her face instantly breaking into a smile.

"You're back?"

"Yes."

Evelyn walked to the bedside and offered the peeled apple.

But Eleanor pointed to the watermelon beside it.

"I want that."

Evelyn couldn't help but smile.

It was nearing the end. The old lady should eat whatever she wanted. The doctor had also advised that dietary restrictions were no longer necessary.

She scooped a spoonful of watermelon and brought it to Eleanor's lips.

Eleanor closed her eyes in contentment.

"My granddaughter-in-law's feeding makes it sweeter! That Cecilia Evans is truly nauseating. Trying to sow discord? She should know better than to mess with me!"

As she spoke, she took Evelyn's hand and gestured for Alexander to come closer.

Alexander approached.

"Grandmother."

Eleanor looked at him.

"You rascal, you must treat your wife well from now on, understand?"

Alexander nodded.

Eleanor continued.

"And don't be too sad when I'm gone, hear me?"

Alexander's face darkened.

"Grandmother, don't say such things."

Eleanor smiled.

"It's inevitable. You don't have many relatives left in this world. I'll be at peace knowing Evelyn is with you."

She patted Alexander's hand, then looked back at Evelyn.

"My dear, this grandson of mine has always been insecure and has a peculiar temper. Please be patient with him."

Evelyn nodded.

"Grandmother, I must disagree with that. My husband... he is wonderful."

As she said this, she glanced at Alexander.

Alexander, who had been feeling heavy-hearted, visibly softened, looking back at her with tenderness.

Watching them, Eleanor secretly smiled, then coughed lightly.

"You haven't had lunch yet, have you? Go on, eat."

Evelyn laughed.

"Grandmother, I didn't cook today. I'm afraid the meal won't taste as good for you."

Eleanor chuckled.

"Exactly! You've spoiled my palate!"

"Then I'll cook you something delicious tonight."

The family enjoyed a harmonious lunch together.

Eleanor Vance returned to her room for an afternoon nap.

Evelyn and Alexander were about to attend to some matters when Richard Evans stormed in, furious.

Seeing Alexander, he opened his mouth to speak, but Alexander spoke first.

"Whatever it is, we'll discuss it outside."

Richard Evans glanced toward Eleanor's room, then turned and walked out the door.

Evelyn followed.

Just outside the courtyard gate, they heard Richard's angry质问.

"Was it you? Did you make Grandmother drive Cecilia away? Alexander Vance, don't forget, Grandmother isn't your grandmother alone! She's my grandmother too!"

Alexander looked at him.

"And?"

"So, starting tomorrow, Cecilia and Lillian will come to pay their morning and evening respects to Grandmother!"

Alexander's jaw tightened as he stared at him.

Back when Julian Evans and Margaret Evans were around, Margaret, at least being from a respectable family, stopped visiting after being cold-shouldered by the old lady a few times.

But this mistress, Lillian Evans, and her daughter Cecilia had truly thick skin and remarkable patience.

No wonder Richard Evans was so easily manipulated by them.

Alexander lowered his gaze.

"Grandmother prefers peace and quiet."

"Excuses!" Richard sneered.

"Grandmother prefers peace and quiet, yet she allows you and Evelyn to disturb her?"

Then, he noticed Natalie Castillo craning her neck to listen to the gossip, which fueled his anger further. He pointed at Natalie.

"And there's even an outsider living here!"

Natalie Castillo: "..."

She showed no guilt. Instead, she widened her eyes, smiled as if enjoying the drama, cracked a sunflower seed, and waved at Richard.

"I'm here because I want to be. Nyeh nyeh nyeh..."

Richard's face turned livid with rage.

He turned back to Alexander, raising his voice.

"You may run this household, but you can't treat me like this! Alexander Vance, I'm telling you, if you don't agree today, I'll make a scene!"

He took a step forward, closing in on Alexander.

"Grandmother isn't yours alone. If you won't let my people see her, I'll make noise right here. Didn't you say Grandmother likes quiet? Let's see if she can rest peacefully once I start making a racket!"

Alexander's expression completely darkened.

Richard let out a cold laugh, then turned to stride back into the courtyard.

"Won't agree? Fine! I'll go wake Grandmother right now and ask her if she ever intended to acknowledge me as her grandson at all!"