Separate Weddings, Separate Lives novel Chapter 35

Flora placed the box she had taken from her locker into Louisa's hand.

"This belonged to your mother," Flora's voice trembled slightly. "To be exact, it was a gift from your father to her. It's been over 20 years..."

Losing both her husband and her daughter early in life was Flora's greatest tragedy. Her voice always wavered when the past was brought up.

The weight of the small box pressed into Louisa's palm. She suddenly found she lacked the courage to open it, but Flora encouraged her with a gentle nod. "Go on. Take a look."

Seeing how painful this was for Flora, Louisa reflexively closed her hand. "Grandma, I don't need to know anymore. It's okay."

Flora managed a small, sad smile. "Don't be silly. Everyone wants to know their past. You used to cry about it when you were little because I wouldn't tell you. I'm fine, really.

"At my age, I've come to terms with everything. This belongs to you, and the story needs to be told. I can't exactly take it to the grave with me."

"Grandma…" Louisa murmured.

Flora took Louisa's hand and unfolded her fingers, urging her to open the box.

Taking a deep breath, Louisa lifted the lid. Inside was a layer of red silk. When she pulled the fabric back, she found a gold necklace in the shape of a four-leaf clover, featuring a round, emerald pendant hanging from the center.

The shape of the emerald was unique. It looked custom-made.

"It's beautiful," Flora whispered.

Louisa had to agree. The craftsmanship was exquisite. It wasn't something available at any store.

"Look closer," Flora reminded her. "Your mother said her name was engraved on it somewhere."

Louisa picked up the necklace carefully, examining it from every angle. It wasn't until she pressed against the side of the pendant that she realized it was a locket. It clicked open to reveal a name engraved inside, Millie.

Louisa's mother was named Emily Graham, but Flora had always called her Millie.

It was a childish move, but it was clear he was just doing it to entertain the seniors. Of course, he made Louisa his excuse.

Louisa played along. "Focus. Don't let it happen again."

"Yes, ma'am!" Elijah replied. In this setting, he didn't come off as a billionaire. He just looked like a charming, down-to-earth guy.

Seeing how much the residents were enjoying his company, Louisa didn't rush him to leave. She sat nearby and waited.

Then, she received a call. It was Thaddeus.

Louisa stared at his name on the screen for a moment before hitting the mute button. She had nothing left to say to him, and she had no intention of ever taking his calls again.

"Why aren't you answering?" Elijah asked. He was still focused on his cards, but it was as if he had eyes in the back of his head.