To Love a Shadow, To Be the Sun novel Chapter 97

"Is Mr. Gareth really planning to leave himself no way out?" Elara asked.

Gareth's mind flashed to the image of Nanette clutching his arm, sobbing so desperately it seemed her heart might break. His gaze turned cold, sharp with resolve.

"If you had treated your mother-in-law with respect, none of this would be happening," he said. "You knew she was terminally ill, yet you accused her of faking it. You have to face consequences for your actions."

Elara's fists clenched tightly at her sides…

At that moment, Rose was wheeling Gage up to the imposing gates of the Vincent estate.

"Dad, are you sure about this?" Rose asked, her voice uncertain.

Ever since the wedding, the two families had barely spoken, especially the elder generation. Mostly, Gage's side had chosen to stay away—he didn't want to add to Elara's burdens.

Gage looked up at the grand wrought-iron gates of the Vincent family home and let out a long breath. "Fine, we can turn back. Let them wear Elara down till she's nothing, let her join Ryan Linden in the afterlife."

They couldn't just let their one source of hope be destroyed.

Rose hesitated only a moment before walking up and ringing the bell.

When the housekeeper learned it was someone from the Linden family, the old mansion's doors swung open in welcome.

Inside Westflower Hall, the scent of sandalwood drifted through the air.

The matriarch sat in the place of honor, a poised smile on her lips.

"Gage, your health is precious. Whatever brings you here, please say it plainly."

Though Gage was dressed simply, he met her gaze with quiet dignity.

"Felice, you know as well as I do—if it hadn't been for my illness, Elara wouldn't have sacrificed her own happiness for this family. We may not be bound by blood, but I love her more dearly than if she were my own grandchild. I'm an old man, not long for this world. I came today with only one request: give my poor granddaughter some peace of mind."

Felice lifted her teacup, took a delicate sip.

"Elara married into the Vincent family," she replied, "and she'll be cared for according to our ways. There's no need to worry, old friend."

"‘Your ways?'" Gage's clouded eyes sharpened.

Felice understood that something serious must have happened between the young couple, but she kept her silence.

At last, she spoke, her voice steady and absolute.

"Gage, you have my word. Elara is the lawful wife of the Vincent family. In life, she's one of us. In death, she's one of us. Our family protects our own, always. What you've said today—I will remember. Go home and take care of yourself now."

Her words might have sounded cool, but for Elara, they were a shield no one else could see.

Gage said nothing more, simply bidding Felice farewell.

The hall fell silent, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Felice sat a while in thought, then called out, "John Prescott."

The butler hurried in.

"These past few days—has Gareth been at the hospital with his wife the entire time?"