Chapter 116 A Solid Decade of Shared History
Scarlett's voice softened as she conceded, "I know. I am aware, my dear,". She paused, a hint of nostalgia coloring her tone, "Perhaps I am a touch antiquated, but there's one thing I am unshakeably confident about. I have a knack for discerning the right people. Consider your father-in-law. These days, he's virtually inseparable from Mia, finally recognizing the jewel his wife truly is. He once behaved as though the world was indebted to him. Men often come to appreciate what they have far too late. Fortunately, you and Alex are in a harmonious place, so I can't be accused of being overly obstinate. After all, you two share a solid decade of history."
Ava's smile was tinged with a touch of melancholy. "Yes, Grandma, Alex and I are doing splendidly. You needn't worry about us."
"Indeed, no discord between you two, even with the sudden emergence of Isabella. But that's all been resolved now."
The name "Isabella" was a jolt, the first time Ava had heard it pass the old woman's lips. She yearned to ask Scarlett if the rumors about delaying Isabella's surgery were true, but she hesitated, fearing that her question might lead Scarlett to suspect Isabella's return, potentially stirring up further complications.
Scarlett, noticing Ava's distant gaze, wore a look of concern. "Ava, is something amiss?"
Ava was momentarily silenced by the mention of Isabella. Could something have transpired?
Sensing Scarlett's growing suspicion, Ava hastened to reassure her, "Nothing's amiss, Grandma. I'm simply still trying to comprehend the situation between Granddad and Mia. It's such a shame, I wish he'd recognized his feelings for her sooner. It feels a bit late now."
Scarlett responded, "That, my dear, is something I'm uncertain about. You needn't burden yourself with their relationship. They've lived long enough to have experienced it all, and after being entwined for so many years, they've likely found their own unique way of coexisting. You and Alex should concentrate on your own lives."
Ava nodded in agreement, "Understood, Grandma."
Scarlett, changing the subject, said, "What's crucial is to start a family soon. I understand you're young and might want to savor life a bit longer, but having a child early isn't a bad thing. You can employ the best help to care for the child. This way, you can continue to do as you please without interruptions, and when you return home, you'll have your little one to spend time with."
Ava saw the hopeful sparkle in the old woman's eyes, and it tugged at her heartstrings. She longed to share the news to bring joy to the old woman.
However, she couldn't.
Just then, Alexander made his entrance. "Grandma, I've arrived."
His arrival shifted the conversation. Scarlett shot him a cool look. "Finally, you've decided to grace us with your presence. I was beginning to think you were too preoccupied for us."
Her voice dripped with sarcasm.
Alexander responded with a weak smile. "I apologize, work has been demanding, and I lost track of time. But I'm here now."
Scarlett huffed, "And so you should be. Ava's been here for quite some time. You're always tied up, always the last to arrive."
"Grandma, please don't be upset with Alex. Let's just enjoy a pleasant dinner together," Ava, ever the peacemaker, attempted to smooth things over.
Scarlett might have been critical of her grandson, but her affection for Ava was too profound to ignore her suggestion.
