Sham Marriage Quit Real Heiress Strikes Back novel Chapter 147

Sham Marriage Quit, Real Heiress Strikes Back

Chapter 147 The Card

What binds a marriage more tightly than intimacy is often not touch but shared control over money, and Elena was not ready for that kind of closeness, so when she suddenly received the card from Alexander she did not know what to do with it.

“That’s really not necessary. If Mom sees something she likes, I can just use my own card,” she said, placing it back on the table. “I’ll bring it back to you tonight.”

There was a brief silence on the other end of the line before his low voice came through. “If the woman with me has to pay for her own purchases, then what exactly am I working for?”

Elena went quiet for a second, caught off guard by the unapologetic possessiveness in his tone.

“Alright, I understand,” she said at last.

Since the shopping was for Evelyn, spending Alexander’s money did not feel unreasonable, and she slipped the card into her bag.

After the call ended, Alexander’s expression remained tense. He had only handed her a card, yet she reacted as though she needed distance from him, and that subtle line she drew between them unsettled him more than he expected.

Fiona, who had been organizing documents nearby, noticed his mood. “Is Elena upset?”

He answered evenly, “I gave her a card and told her to buy what she needs. She didn’t want it.”

Fiona smiled knowingly. “She sounds like a good woman. When a woman doesn’t want to spend a man’s money, it usually means she doesn’t feel secure enough in the relationship yet. You two just got married. Feelings take time. That’s better than someone who only sees you as a wallet.”

Alexander’s brows drew together. For some reason, even Fiona’s presence in the office felt intrusive at that moment. “You can head out.“.

She had not needed to come in that evening, but knowing he was working late, she had chosen to stay.

“Don’t work too late. And make sure you eat. Your stomach’s been acting up again,” Fiona reminded him before leaving.

Her heels clicked confidently down the hallway.

Alexander remained seated, Fiona’s words echoing in his mind. Elena did not want his card because she did not have feelings for him. Was that really it?

Elena, unaware of his thoughts, finished her urgent tasks and drove to Kingsley Manor to pick up Evelyn.

Walter lived there alone now. His health had been declining steadily, and worried about him, Evelyn had moved back into the manor to look after him.

That alone told Elena Evelyn was not heartless. When Charles had been unwell, Victoria had barely shown.

concern.

“Mrs. Kingsley, welcome,” a housekeeper greeted politely.

15:56 Wed, Apr 29

Chapter 147 The Card

Evelyn was already dressed. She favored tailored silk dresses with structured shawls, and tonight she wore a dark, elegant piece paired with a pale wrap, her presence refined and composed. When she saw Elena, she handed her the handbag.

“Let’s go.”

Elena carried the bag and followed her out. Evelyn paused at the passenger side of the car without getting in and lifted her chin slightly. Elena understood immediately and opened the door for her.

Only then did Evelyn sit. Elena walked around to the driver’s side and started the engine.

As the car moved smoothly down the road, Evelyn glanced at the interior. “This isn’t something Alexander bought you, is it?”

“No. It’s my old car,” Elena replied honestly.

“That figures. Even a nanny wouldn’t drive something like this in our circle. The Hawthornes were stingy with you.”

Her voice remained cool as she assessed Elena from head to toe. “Alexander prefers not to publicize your marriage for now, and I’m aware of the history between you and the Hawthornes. I respect his decision. However, you are still a Kingsley. The way you dress and what you drive should reflect that.”

She continued matter–of–factly, “Set aside time tomorrow. I’ll have a designer come to the house to create a few pieces for you. And we’ll look at replacing the car.”

Elena almost laughed internally. Is it a family trait for the Kingsleys to insist on spending money on me?

She knew better than to refuse Evelyn. Unlike Alexander, Evelyn valued compliance.

“Of course,” Elena answered smoothly.

They were attending a jewelry exhibition that evening at Grayhaven’s largest downtown art gallery. The event was well attended.

As soon as they entered, Elena planned to walk with Evelyn, but Sophia appeared out of nowhere, waving enthusiastically.

“You go ahead,” Evelyn said. “Young people should talk to each other.”

Walter had told her to build a relationship with Elena, yet she still did not quite know how to navigate conversation with her daughter–in–law. Sophia’s appearance offered a convenient excuse.

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