Chapter 117

The items placed on her vanity table were clearly meant for her, just like the property deed before.

Isabella frowned slightly as she opened one of the round brocade boxes.

Her breath caught when she saw the contents. It was the emerald jewelry set she'd wanted at the auction last week!

The rectangular box looked heavier. Could it be...?

She set down the first box and opened the second. As expected, it contained a scroll.

Unrolling it carefully on the round table, an exquisite embroidered painting shimmered into view - so lifelike it seemed to breathe.

Holding both auction items she'd coveted days ago, Isabella stood silent for a long moment.

These were clearly the gifts Alexander had purchased for Eleanor's birthday.

One would be presented in Martha's name. The other as a joint gift from the couple.

"Mom! I'm done eating! Let's go!" Sophia came bounding up the stairs.

Noticing the open boxes, she peeked inside. "Oh, Dad brought these days ago. Said they're for you."

Isabella hummed in response, carefully rerolling the scroll and replacing it.

After storing the boxes safely, they departed.

Sophia wanted to try target shooting, so Isabella took her to the range. Then came the rollercoasters. After hours of amusement park fun, Isabella needed time for herself.

Sophia begged to stay longer.

Previously, Isabella would have relented - always putting her daughter first.

But today, she remained firm. "I have other commitments. The bodyguards can stay with you."

Sophia pouted, clinging to her mother. "Mommm..."

This tactic always worked before.

But this time, Isabella gently disentangled herself. "It's important. We'll come again soon."

Seeing her mother's resolute expression, Sophia reluctantly agreed. "Fine..."

After arranging the bodyguards, Isabella drove to a distant antique market she'd never visited.

She browsed extensively before finding it - an exquisite scholar's writing set. Fountain pen, iron gall ink, blotting paper, and handmade paper crafted from rare materials with masterful artistry.

It captivated her instantly. Though costing over ten million, a fraction of the embroidery and jewelry's price, she knew her grandmother best.

This set would bring Eleanor far greater joy than those showpieces.

Running her fingers over the textured paper and pen carvings, Isabella could already see Eleanor's delighted expression.

Yes, this was her personal birthday gift for Grandma.

As for Alexander's purchases...

The thought was interrupted by Emily's call.