Chapter 34

Margaret gave Evelyn's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Don't fret, dear. I'm much sturdier than I look."

Evelyn exhaled deeply, her shoulders relaxing. "Thank heavens you're alright! You gave me such a fright last night!"

A mischievous twinkle appeared in Margaret's eyes. "I may be old, but I'm not made of glass. I need to bounce back quickly."

Her voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. "That way I can help you get rid of that meddling homewrecker once and for all."

Liam's face fell at his grandmother's words. He straightened his posture before responding firmly, "Grandmother, there are no homewreckers in our marriage."

Margaret snorted indignantly, sounding more offended than if she'd been the wronged party herself.

"Then explain that hussy from last evening! Don't tell me you believe in platonic friendships between men and women!"

Liam opened his mouth to protest but thought better of it, pressing his lips into a thin line instead.

Evelyn bit her lower lip to suppress a giggle at Liam's flustered expression. Feeling slightly guilty for her amusement, she ducked her head, though the corners of her mouth twitched uncontrollably.

Noticing Evelyn's struggle, Liam's stern expression softened. Margaret gave Evelyn an encouraging pat.

"Sweetheart, I've had the staff prepare fresh toiletries for you. They're waiting in the bathroom. Why don't you freshen up before lunch?"

"Of course," Evelyn replied dutifully before disappearing into the ensuite.

Margaret watched her leave with a wistful sigh. "Whether she's Evelyn or Cassandra, she's perfect for you, Liam. Promise me you won't divorce her just because that other woman says so."

Liam exhaled through his nose, careful not to upset his grandmother further. "Understood."

Margaret narrowed her eyes. "Be honest with me. Do you truly have no feelings for her at all?"

Liam considered the question carefully before answering. "She's remarkable, no doubt. But we've been married barely a month, and spent even less time together. We're practically strangers."

Margaret's voice took on a sage tone. "You've always been responsible, Liam. Now that you're married, you must honor that commitment. Marriage isn't child's play."

Running his fingers through Margaret's silver hair affectionately, Liam could only nod in resignation. "I know, Grandmother."

Margaret beamed. "Couples who weather storms together stay together. I expect you two to have a long, happy life."

Liam suppressed a sigh. He'd already promised Evelyn they'd divorce after Margaret's birthday gala. He never broke his word.

The moment was interrupted by the arrival of the entire Blackwood clan, flooding the hospital room with sudden energy.

Margaret's Alzheimer's made recognition difficult. When they introduced themselves, she only nodded vaguely.

"Mother, it's me, Richard. This is your daughter-in-law Eleanor, your grandchildren, and your great-grandchildren come to visit."

Margaret studied them blankly before declaring, "My son's name is Andrew."

"Andrew was your youngest, Mother. He passed at ten. I'm your eldest, Richard."

"My... eldest?"

"Yes! And your grandson Liam is here too!"

Such reunions had become routine - the Blackwoods reintroducing themselves each visit.

Evelyn emerged from the bathroom to find the room packed with unfamiliar faces. She froze in the doorway, overwhelmed.

The Blackwoods barely glanced her way. After years of Evelyn caring for Margaret during hospital stays, her presence had become background noise.