Separate Weddings, Separate Lives novel Chapter 32

When Louisa and Elijah finally came downstairs, the entire Holten family was already gathered.

There were still plenty of people from yesterday that Louisa didn't recognize. As she was introduced to them one by one, she noticed everyone's gaze drifting toward her neck. Suddenly, she realized exactly why Elijah had left that mark.

It was a public announcement that they had spent an intimate night together.

Everyone else had finished eating, but a massive spread had been set aside for them. The breakfast was extravagant, featuring a dozen different options.

"Mrs. Holten, have some health tonic." Carol placed a bowl of tonic in front of Louisa.

Louisa was about to say thank you when Elijah spared it a glance. "Starting the supplements already?"

Louisa looked at the drink. It had a sharp, earthy scent.

"Of course, she needs them. I want a great-grandchild as soon as possible," Elijah's grandmother, Margaret Finlay, announced. She sat there with her grey hair and sharp eyes, looking every bit like the head of the family.

"She's right. You need to stay healthy, Lou. You're far too thin," Mildred added, choosing her words more carefully, though her intent was exactly the same.

Louisa was shocked that she was pressured to have kids the very first morning after her marriage. Especially since she and Elijah were only a couple on paper. How were they supposed to have a child?

Louisa remained silent and shot Elijah a pleading look.

"Just drink it. It wouldn't kill you even if you don't get pregnant," Elijah said dryly.

Louisa stared at him. Since yesterday, she had realized her initial impression of Elijah was completely wrong. He was the complete opposite of the kind stranger who had helped her before.

"Why don't you take them for me then?" she countered.

"Me? It wouldn't work on me." Elijah smirked.

Louisa was utterly embarrassed.

Finally, breakfast ended. It was tradition to visit the bride's family on the day after the wedding. Since Louisa only had Flora, Elijah was to accompany her to the nursing home.

The Holtens had already prepared a mountain of gifts. Margaret even mentioned she was setting up a private guest house so they could move Flora in, complete with a private nursing staff.

Louisa was touched, but she knew Flora would never agree to it.

More importantly, Louisa didn't want to owe the Holtens that much. Her deal with Elijah was temporary. When the day came for her to leave, she wanted to be able to walk away.

If they took over Flora's care, she would never be able to repay that debt.

"Planning our divorce already?" Elijah asked once they were on the road, seeing right through her.