Chapter 130 The Illusion of a Title"Let's go somewhere where our names hold no weight, where we can begin anew," Adrian proposed.
Victoria felt the gentle pressure of her hand being enveloped by another. She glanced down, noting the contrast in their warmth. Alexander's touch was much warmer.
A reflexive urge to withdraw her hand surged within her, but Adrian held firm. "Allow me this comfort," he implored, "Please stop your self-inflicted torment."
He was privy to her secret habit. In moments of profound sorrow, she would press her nails into the soft flesh of her fingertips.
Her delicate skin was no match for such treatment.
Victoria finally turned to face him, her voice tinged with resignation, "I am still bound to Alexander by the bonds of matrimony. How could I possibly elope with you?"
"A wife is merely a title, it holds no sway over me. Does it over you?" Adrian questioned, his tone grave.
Indeed, a wife was but a title—fleeting and insubstantial.
How else could Alexander cavort with other women, even going as far as to father a child with one?
He had long since stripped her of the rights that came with her title.
Why else could he flirt so freely with Isabella, all while discussing the public announcement of their marriage?
Was he merely toying with her?
His words from that morning suddenly seemed absurd. Was he merely playing a game with her?
She had almost fallen for it.
What did he see her as?
Was she merely a pawn in his game to mend his relationship with Isabella?
Victoria pondered these thoughts with a heavy heart, concluding that now that they had reconciled, her role as a pawn was over.
"Adrian, would you take me somewhere?" she asked.
"Of course," he replied without hesitation.
Anywhere.
His response was filled with a promise, as if he would brave any danger for her.
Their destination was the Harrington Family Estate.
Adrian waited in the car for her.
Before entering, Victoria steeled herself, knowing she could not continue down this path.
Alexander might waver, using her to spite Isabella, but she refused to be his pawn.
With her resolve hardened, she confidently stepped into the mansion.
"Mrs. Harrington has returned," the butler greeted her at the door.
"Is Grandma at home?" she asked, nodding politely and engaging in small talk as they walked inside.
"Yes, both old lady Harrington and Madam Harrington are in," the butler replied, swiftly moving away and casting a glance towards the door.
Was that Adrian returning?—
"My dear, you're back. What brings you home at this hour? Weren't you at work?" OId Lady Harrington asked, her voice a blend of joy and surprise.
"Yes, but I needed to discuss something with Grandma and Mom first."
"Very well, have a seat," Old Lady Harrington urged, her gaze never leaving Victoria, although her heart was heavy with apprehension.
No sooner had Victoria taken a seat than an array of exotic fruits and coffee were served.
Victoria was touched. The elders always reserved the finest treats for her, pampering her like a child.
However...
"Grandma, I ask that you remain calm upon hearing what I have to say. I assure you, I speak with sincerity, and I am neither coerced nor harmed," Victoria implored, her voice barely above a whisper.
She needed to prepare Old Lady Harrington, to soften the blow.
Old Lady Harrington had always been a pillar of strength, but the last divorce agreement had left her winded—knocked her out cold, in fact. This time, she was taking no chances.
Arabella locked eyes with her mother-in-law. "Is it because of Alexander's visit to Isabella?" she asked immediately.
"If that's the case, my dear Victoria, I'll drag him back here to apologize to you on his knees," the old lady vowed instantly.
Victoria offered a humble smile and softly said, "Grandma, Mom, I genuinely wish to congratulate them, I swear."
"Mr. Alexander."
The butler, noticing the unexpected return of the man, greeted him promptly.
Alexander lifted his hand, signaling for silence.
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