Chapter 743 Susan's Support
Susan didn't say much. She knew Celia couldn't keep a secret and would spill if she knew anything.
From the first time Lily came back, Susan knew she wasn't Ophelia. She didn't rely on looks; she could tell by the feel of Lily's hand bones. Susan had held Ophelia's hand enough to know the difference.
At first, Susan was suspicious of Lily's intentions. She kept quiet and observed. But Lily seemed genuine and treated Warmie well. Susan couldn't understand why Lily, with all the Abbott family wealth, wouldn't just settle with Finnegan.
Susan decided it was time to talk to Lily. She sent Celia and Warmie out to play and called Lily, smiling kindly. "Ophelia, dear, I've missed our little chats. How about you come over to the old mansion for dinner tonight? Just the two of us, we can catch up properly."
Lily couldn't refuse and agreed. She thought a dinner with Susan wouldn't hurt since she was leaving the next day.
"Okay, I'll be there soon," Lily said.
Susan asked the kitchen to prepare dinner. Lily arrived with gifts, not wanting to come empty-handed.
"Ophelia, you're here," Susan greeted warmly. "You didn't need to bring anything."
"Just a little something," Lily smiled, setting down the gifts. "Where's Warmie?"
"Celia took her out to play," Susan said, leading Lily to the dining room. "It's just us tonight."
"Alright, I'll keep you company," Lily said, sitting down.
Susan never talked about the past Ophelia in front of Lily. She knew this wasn't Ophelia and that talking about the past wouldn't change that.
After some small talk, Susan brought up a serious topic. "Ophelia, Warmie is lonely. He's a sweet boy, but children his age thrive with playmates. You and Finnegan are still young...have you considered having another child?"
Lily was stunned but realized it was a common expectation in wealthy families. "There's no rush."
"Don't lie to me," Susan said, her eyes sharp.
Lily smiled awkwardly.
"Since last year, Finnegan's been a wreck. He only perked up when you came back. Once you start something, keep going. Finnegan is handsome, devoted, and loyal. You won't lose out," Susan encouraged.
Feeling guilty, Lily took Susan's words to heart. She sensed a deeper meaning.
"He's pretty good," Lily's smile was strained.
Susan patted Lily's hand. "Whether you're Ophelia or not, live in peace. You won't be mistreated."
Lily's heart skipped a beat. "I..."
Susan patted her hand again, signaling calm. "I've seen a lot in my time. You and Finnegan have had conflicts, right? Given his deep affection for Ophelia, even if he discovers the truth, he'll convince himself. People prefer a comforting lie over harsh reality. They need something to hold on to."