Chapter 272 Afraid to Look at Him
In a flurry of haste, Victoria made her way back to Ankenra, hoping to reach before Alexander departed on his business trip. Her delay was not deliberate, but rather a consequence of her still healing wounds, which she wished to keep hidden from prying eyes. Adorned in a long-sleeved dress that cascaded down to her calves, she managed to conceal the bruises marring her wrists and knees.
She had been contemplating calling Alexander, suggesting they meet directly at the family court, when the Harrington Mansion's car pulled up abruptly before her. "Mrs. Harrington," a familiar voice called out.
"Felix?" Victoria queried, her hand clutching a small backpack. Upon seeing Felix Berke, the Harrington family's trusted driver, she was momentarily taken aback. An instinctive glance towards the back seat confirmed it was vacant.
"Mr. Alexander is currently in a meeting. Mrs. Eloise heard of your return and asked me to escort you home for some rest," Felix explained.
"Alright," Victoria responded, although a sense of unease stirred within her. She had rushed back upon hearing from Jasmine that Alexander was due to leave for a two-month business trip the following day.
Victoria found herself reflecting on the fact that they hadn't seen each other in over two years. She feared he might misconstrue her sudden return as a reluctance to proceed with the divorce, hence her hasty return.
Upon entering the car, Felix drove her back to the Harrington Mansion. She had intended to visit her grandparents, but had decided it would be more appropriate after finalizing the divorce with Alexander. She contemplated sending him a WhatsApp message to inform him of her arrival, but then remembered she had blocked him.
Upon her arrival, Nicolas and Eloise greeted her with furrowed brows and solemn expressions. "Vicky, why have you lost so much weight? Are you ill?" Nicolas asked, his voice laced with concern.
Eloise too, studied her, noting her pallor and overall unwell appearance.
Victoria touched her face, replying, "Really? Perhaps it's just the heat." In reality, she had applied foundation and concealer to mask a lingering fingermark on her face. She had ensured her makeup was flawless before stepping out of the car.
Eloise, not convinced, grabbed Victoria's wrist, scrutinizing her closely. "I won't allow you to leave, do you understand?" she stated firmly.
Victoria gently reassured her, "Grandma, I've found a job. I can't afford to take too much time off right as I start working."
"I don't care. You're simply not allowed to leave," Eloise retorted stubbornly.
Victoria offered a helpless smile, "I'll visit you and Grandpa often."
"I don't believe you. You've been away for so long, and I've always been the one to initiate video calls. When have you ever reached out to me?" Eloise countered.
"I was preoccupied with job hunting. Please don't be upset, Grandma. I promise to video call you every two days from now on," Victoria replied, attempting to placate Eloise. Despite her efforts, Nicolas and Eloise couldn't shake off their sadness. They understood Victoria's desire to divorce Alexander better than anyone else.
With Arabella and Maximus away on a hiking trip, the house was unusually quiet that evening, until Alexander's return.
"Mr. Alexander, welcome back," the butler greeted.
"Mm," Alexander responded, as he parked his car at the front door.
His phone rang, delaying his entrance. "Hello? Drinking? I'm not available tonight." Handing his coat to the butler, he added, "Victoria is back. I'll hang up now."
The caller didn't press further. Alexander strode in, his long legs carrying him swiftly inside. As he entered, he was greeted by a soft, soothing voice.
"Who said that? I love you the most," Victoria was heard, comforting Eloise.
Upon noticing Alexander, Nicolas greeted, "You're back."
Victoria's heart fluttered. She wanted to turn around but didn't dare.
"Yes," Alexander replied, sauntering over to the single sofa across from Nicolas.
Only then did Victoria muster the courage to acknowledge him. "Have you finished your work?"
Alexander met her gaze, responding simply, "Yes."
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