After the tense phone call with Charles, Elizabeth returned to the quiet sanctuary of Nancy’s apartment. As she walked toward the entrance, she noticed that the loose metal roofing on the nearby bungalows—which had nearly caused a disaster during the last storm—had been completely repaired.

Michael must have seen to it, she thought. For all his coldness, he had ensured no one else would be in danger from those falling sheets.

Inside, the apartment was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming lilies. Nancy had placed a fresh bouquet in the living room, the soft yellow light making the space feel incredibly cozy.

"Mom, I'm back," Elizabeth called out, sinking onto the sofa. She felt drained, not just physically but emotionally.

Nancy came in from the balcony. "Have you eaten, dear?"

"I'm not hungry, but the flowers are beautiful," Elizabeth smiled.

"I thought we needed some color in here," Nancy said, mopping the floor. Then she paused, her expression turning serious. "Elizabeth, we need to talk. Michael isn't going to let this go. And the babies... you’re nearly three months along. Your health is the priority, but soon you won't be able to hide it. What is the plan?"

Elizabeth lay quietly, her hand instinctively resting on her stomach.

"I’ve saved some money," Nancy continued softly. "What if we go abroad? You could study for a few years, raise the children in peace, far away from all this corporate drama."

Elizabeth didn't answer. She had fallen into a deep, exhausted sleep. Nancy sighed, covering her with a warm blanket and turning out the lights.

The next morning, Elizabeth was jolted awake by a firm knock on the door. Thinking Nancy had forgotten her keys, she scrambled up, her hair slightly messy and her loungewear rumpled from sleep.

She opened the door, only to find Michael in his wheelchair, accompanied by his bodyguard.

Michael looked up at her, his expression unreadable for a split second before he looked toward the hallway. "Turn around," he ordered his bodyguard.

The sudden command woke Elizabeth up completely. She stepped back, realizing she was still in her pajamas. "Michael? What are you doing here so early?"

"Is this how you treat guests?" Michael teased, though his eyes were tired. He wheeled himself into the small living room. "Go and change. We have things to discuss."

Elizabeth ran back to her room, quickly dressing in a simple, elegant day dress. By the time she returned, the bodyguard had brought up several high-end gift boxes, ranging from rare teas to luxury health supplements.

"What is all this?" Elizabeth asked, bewildered.

Michael looked at her, his voice steady. "Where is your mother? It’s time I properly introduced myself as her son-in-law."