Chapter 6

Edward looked up and took the folder with his long, slender fingers, flipping it open to skim the contents. He read only a few pages before stopping. The report clearly stated that his wife had been living alone these past two years—no signs of anyone else sharing her space. His sharp features remained calm, though something unreadable flickered in his eyes. He absentmindedly rubbed his thumb along the edge of the paper. William, watching him closely, finally spoke up carefully. “Mr. Hawthorne, according to the findings, Mrs. Hawthorne has been living quietly on her own all this time. No questionable behavior. Do you think perhaps… there’s been a misunderstanding between you?” The marriage hadn’t been about love. It had been arranged by Edward’s grandfather. His grandfather and Mrs. Hawthorne’s grandfather went way back—legend had it the man had even saved Mr. Hawthorne’s life once. So when they promised a wedding between their grandchildren, it was practically set in stone. Edward hadn’t agreed at first, of course. But after several emotional appeals involving his grandfather’s “final wish,” he’d finally given in and signed the marriage certificate. On that very same day, one of his overseas ventures ran into trouble. He had to fly out immediately, and just like that—two years passed. They barely knew each other to begin with. There was no real emotional foundation. Trust was always going to be fragile. Misunderstandings were almost inevitable. Edward’s expression didn’t change. He quietly closed the file and said, “Get the car. We’re going to the estate.” —— Rose Estate. By the time Edward arrived, his grandfather was in the garden, meticulously trimming his beloved roses. The old man glanced up, then let out an annoyed grunt when he saw Edward alone. “Where’s your wife, huh? Don’t tell me you came back by yourself again!” Edward walked over calmly and plucked a leaf from a bush as if making a point. “Grandfather, how much do you really know about Emily?” “Hey, hands off! You brat! You barely come home, and now you’re messing with the roses your grandmother planted? Show some respect!” Mr. Hawthorne swatted his hand away and glared. “Of course I know her. She’s my granddaughter-in-law.” “If you’ve got something to say, just say it. No need to beat around the bush.” Edward glanced at the red mark on his hand. The old man never held back. “You always tell me to bring her home. I thought I should learn a bit more about her first.” The old man’s mood shifted instantly—storm clouds clearing, replaced by a bright smile. “So you’re finally taking your wife seriously, are you? Excellent! Let’s talk inside. I’ve been waiting forever for you to come around!” He handed his clippers to a maid and practically dragged Edward into the living room. Two cups of coffee were served. Old Mr. Hawthorne looked at him, clearly ready to launch into a speech. “I’m telling you, Emily is perfect for you. Sweet, polite, incredibly respectful—you won’t find anyone better, even among those high-society girls you know. She’s got class and a good head on her shoulders.” Edward took a sip of coffee, his eyes dark and unreadable. “She’s really that exceptional?” The old man snorted. “Just because I’m old doesn’t mean I’ve lost my judgment. Emily is a gem. Now bring her home already—I’ve been waiting two years for a great-grandchild!” He added sternly, “I mean it. If I don’t see her soon, I might just break your legs.” Edward: “...” —— The next day, Alice walked out of a men’s fashion store dressed casually, her hair in a simple ponytail, makeup-free but still bright and energetic. A deep, calm voice cut through the air. “Miss Sterling.” She looked up instinctively and saw Edward—dressed in a black shirt with his sleeves casually rolled up, his expression cool and detached, making people think twice about approaching him. Her clear, fair face showed a flicker of surprise. “Mr. Hawthorne, you’re here too?” Edward let his gaze linger on Alice’s face for a few seconds. It was the first time he’d seen her so casually dressed—no makeup, fresh and simple, like a college student out shopping. “Just picking out a gift,” he replied. His grandfather wanted him to bring his wife home. On second thought, maybe he had been overthinking things—everyone seemed to admire his wife. Perhaps he had misjudged her all along. Alice looked even more surprised—she never expected her aloof boss to personally pick out a gift. She ventured, “For your wife?” “Yes.” Edward glanced at her. “What are you here for?” Alice offered a polite, professional smile. “Also buying a gift for a friend.” Anthony Hayes’ birthday was coming up—she needed to find something for him. Edward lowered his eyes slightly. “Someone special?” Someone special? Alice had almost forgotten the white lie she’d told earlier. She quickly smiled and played along. “Yes, someone important.” “Then let’s look around together.” Edward walked inside at a relaxed pace, his long legs carrying him forward effortlessly. Alice frowned slightly, her delicate features tightening. Given their complicated history, they should probably keep their distance outside work, right? But he didn’t seem bothered at all. If she refused, it might seem like she was overthinking things. So she followed him in. The mall’s air conditioning was on full blast, and the place was fairly crowded. Still, Edward stood out the moment he entered—his looks, height, and presence made him impossible to ignore. Within seconds, she noticed several girls stealing glances at him as they passed. Alice didn’t want to linger near him for too long. She quickly caught up and said directly, “Mr. Hawthorne, the jewelry department is on the fourth floor. We can check there.” The sooner he picked something, the sooner they could leave. Edward glanced sideways at her, his eyes dark and unreadable. “Alright.” They headed straight to the fourth-floor jewelry store. As soon as they entered, a smiling sales associate approached them. “Welcome! How can I assist you today?” Edward strolled leisurely through the store while Alice and the associate followed. His gaze swept over the display cases until it settled on a massive diamond ring. The associate jumped in immediately. “Excellent taste, sir. That’s a top-tier design from one of our most acclaimed designers. The diamond is from South Africa—there’s only one like it in the entire country.” Edward studied it for a few seconds, then turned toward Alice, who stood a meter away. “Come take a look.” Instantly, everyone’s attention shifted to Alice—some curious, some envious, some skeptical. The sales associate beamed. “Ma’am, you have such lovely poise! You and your husband make such a handsome pair. Would you like to try it on?” Alice nearly choked. She shot the associate a quick glance. “Ah, no—you’ve misunderstood. I’m just his secretary.” The associate gave an awkward little laugh. “Oh, my apologies! You’re both so good-looking—it’s easy to assume!” Alice returned a polite smile. A man and a woman looking at rings together—of course it looked suspicious. But as long as she clarified, no harm done. She looked back down at the diamond ring. “Mr. Hawthorne, it’s stunning—and very large. Any woman would adore it. But I heard from William that your wife prefers to keep a low profile. Perhaps something this flashy isn’t quite her style?” Edward looked down at the ring again, his dark eyes thoughtful. Then he pointed to another piece. “What about this one?” Alice leaned in for a closer look and saw a simple yet elegant ring. It was beautiful. She couldn’t help but admire it. If it were her, she would absolutely love something like that. It occurred to her then—she’d been married for two years, and her so-called husband had never given her a wedding ring…