Episode 64
Elizabeth remained silent, only chiming in when spoken to directly. Just as she was about to try a piece of black pepper steak, Melany halted her with a warning. “This steak is loaded with black pepper, it’s not good for you. It might leave marks.” Kailee, with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes, quickly exchanged her less spicy dish for Elizabeth’s steak, adding, “Indeed, you should avoid it, Elizabeth. Keeping up appearances for the camera is crucial, after all.” Melany’s brow furrowed in confusion.
“Keeping up appearances for what camera?” The elderly couple, devoted to their serene and introspective lifestyle, remained blissfully unaware of modern online trends. Elizabeth opened her mouth to clarify, but Kailee cut in swiftly, “Elizabeth has taken up acting recently, though her role isn’t secured yet. It’s already creating quite a buzz…” “Eat your dinner,” Elijah interjected sharply, his gaze icy. With a stern glance his way, Melany shifted her focus back to Kailee, her curiosity evident. “Go on, what buzz?” “Elijah, this isn’t my fault,” Kailee said hastily, the fear of being cut off by Elijah apparent in her voice. “Listen, Melany, here’s what happened. Elizabeth and Elijah’s ex-girlfriend were both up for the same role. Unfortunately, Elizabeth didn’t land it and ended up being mocked all over social media. Fortunately, their marriage hadn’t been made public yet, or the Norris Group’s shares might have taken a hit.” Melany’s face darkened gradually, a storm brewing in her eyes. She pivoted towards Elijah, her voice tinged with frustration. “Elijah, she’s your ex.
That’s history. Elizabeth is your wife now, bound by law, can’t you see who you should be supporting?” Amid the tension, Shawn, who had been quiet, finally chimed in, “Even though your marriage to Elizabeth isn’t common knowledge, your friends and relatives are aware. Don’t repeat this mistake.” Kailee, caught off guard by Shawn and Melany’s robust defense of Elizabeth and their critique of Elijah, bit her lip and retreated into silence. Elijah, with a gesture of peace, picked up the serving fork and spoon and gently placed a piece of fish onto Melany’s plate, murmuring subduedly, “I understand.”
“Elijah, it’s easy to say the right thing, but I want to see you act on it,” Melany retorted sharply, her quick tap on his hand leaving a red mark. “You don’t need to fuss over me. Why don’t you look after your wife instead? Her favorite beef dish is sitting untouched at the other end of the table.” Following her pointed comment, Elijah dutifully served a slice of beef to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth, watching Elijah’s uncharacteristic humility, couldn’t suppress a smile, the corners of her mouth curling up in amusement. Catching her smile, Elijah added a shrimp to her plate, his eyes softening. “Am I that amusing when I’m being scolded?” he teased. Elizabeth took a delicate bite of the shrimp, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “This shrimp is quite delightful.” Sensing her mood lightening, Elijah felt an urge to mend their rift. He began, “Tonight, I’d like to-” But before he could finish, his phone erupted with a ringtone, shattering the moment. It was an unusual oversight, as Elijah always silenced his phone during meals. The sudden disruption drew all eyes to him.
