Chapter Twenty Six: Living Together With Him
The mansion’s exterior was impressive enough, but the inside left Isabella in awe. It was a vast three- story building with an additional two levels underground. The first basement level housed a gym and a home theater, while the second basement served as a garage. Isabella had thought Sofia’s collection of luxury cars was excessive, but seeing Alexander’s three identical cars in different colors made her realize the extent of wealth some people possess.
Miles was really fascinated by the cars in the garage. It seemed like a typical interest for boys and men of all ages. Alexander noticed Miles’s enthusiasm. “One day, all of this will be yours,” he told Miles. Miles, thrilled, couldn’t stop admiring each car. Alexander’s promise made him even more excited. Isabella, feeling a bit overwhelmed, commented, “Your house is so big, I bet I’d get lost here.” Alexander laughed a little, admitting, “Yeah, it’s happened to people before.” He recalled how Drake, when he first visited years ago to drop off some documents, had gotten lost in the mansion for ou ten minutes. After showing them the ground floor, Alexander led them upstairs. By the time they reached the bedroom, Isabella was as tired as if she had climbed a mountain. She wondered, ‘Isn’t it scary living in such a big place?‘ Though there were servants around, Isabella sensed a certain emptiness, thinking to herself, ‘No wonder he preferred staying late at Sofia’s when I was there instead of coming back to this huge house.”
As Isabella explored the downstairs earlier, she noticed the servants efficiently performing their duties. Some were busy cleaning, others tended to the flowers and plants in the yard, and a man, who appeared to be the chef, inquired about her and the children’s food preferences. When she entered the bedroom, she was struck by its size and how well–equipped it was. The room featured a workspace, a projector, and Alexander even had a vanity inside for her. Isabella could see that these additions were new. She noticed that the cosmetics on the dressing table were her preferred brands.
Alexander explained, “I’m not really good with this stuff; Drake helped me out. He gave me a checklist of things to get, and I bought each item.”
Alexander then drew Isabella’s attention to the backyard. Through the windows, she saw her children already enjoying themselves there, and the presence of the servants reassured her. The backyard was enormous, almost the size of a football field. It was equipped with a trampoline, slides, swings, a toy car track, and several small cars parked nearby. Isabella was amazed at how much Alexander had managed to set up in such a short time. “I did what I could on short notice,” Alexander said. “If we need anything else, we can always add more later.‘
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Isabella expressed her appreciation, “I’m really amazed by how much you’ve done so quickly. You always manage to surprise me.” Alexander lowered his head with a smile. He then gently took her hand and held it near his lips, treating it as if it were something incredibly precious.
Alexander’s phone interrupted the moment with a call from Matilda.
Matilda’s voice came through, “How’s everything? Did my future daughter–in–law arrive safely?”
“Yes, she’s here,” Alexander responded, smiling at Isabella. “Everything’s good. Don’t worry about
Chapter Twenty Sbx: Living Together win E
us.”
Matilda then asked, “Your dad and I were thinking about visiting tonight. Is that alright with you?”
Since Alexander had put her on speakerphone, Isabella heard everything. She quickly replied, “of course, Mrs. Thompson, we’d love to have you over.”
“We’ll be there tonight then. We’ve really missed the kids these past few days,” Matilda said, her voice filled with affection.
Matilda and Nelson had wanted to be closer to Miles and Amelia, but didn’t want to impose on Isabella. Now that she was living with Alexander, it would be easier for them to visit. Understanding their fondness for the children, Isabella warmly invited, “Feel free to come over anytime.”
Matilda’s protective remark added a touch of warmth to the conversation. “If he ever mistreats you, just tell me. I’ll set him straight,” she said firmly.
Isabella couldn’t help but laugh. She already felt so welcomed by Matilda, even before officially joining the family. She found herself wondering how much more Matilda would pamper her once she and Alexander were married.
In that moment, Isabella felt a deep sense of belonging, a feeling she hadn’t experienced in a long
time.
The hardships she had faced over the years seemed to fade in the face of this new familial warmth. She felt emotional, almost teary–eyed, realizing that becoming part of this family was like a stroke of good fortune for her.
Isabella felt a slight pang of excitement mixed with uncertainty as Alexander suggested a day of
shopping. She hadn’t done this in years, and the idea of browsing through stores filled her with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. They began their day by strolling down a vibrant street lined with boutiques.
Isabella’s eyes widened at the array of shops, each showcasing unique styles and designs. Alexander noticed her curious gaze. “Feel free to explore. If you see anything you like, just let me know.” Isabella nodded, feeling a bit overwhelmed but grateful for his consideration. She entered a store that caught her eye, a cozy boutique filled with elegant dresses and chic ensembles.
As Isabella approached the counter to pay, Alexander presented her with a dress. “I think you’d look great in this. Why not try it on?”
Isabella hadn’t worn a dress or skirt in a long time. She preferred pant suits for work as they were more practical.
She looked from the clothes on the counter to the dress Alexander was holding. She had to admit, he had a good sense of style, and the dress did catch her interest.
“Alright, I’ll try it on. Just wait here for me,” she said.
Chapter Twenty SC: Living Together With Him
Alexander sat down on the sofa nearby, waiting patiently. When Isabella came out of the dressing room wearing the dress, he was taken aback by her stunning appearance.
The dress shimmered like moonlight, complementing Isabella’s elegant and serene nature perfectly.
As she approach *****der, she asked, “Does it look okay?” But Alexander, mesmerized, didn’t
initially respond, lost in his admiration.
Misinterpreting his silence, Isabella felt a bit self–conscious. She hadn’t worn such attire in a long time and thought maybe the dress wasn’t right for her.
“Maybe I should change back,” she suggested hesitantly.
Snapped back to reality, Alexander quickly stood up. “No, let’s buy it. You look amazing in it. I’d love to see you in more dresses and skirts when you’re with me.
Isabella’s heart warmed at his affirmation. Realizing her earlier misinterpretation, she returned to the fitting room with a smile, changed back, and took the dress to the cashier.
Alexander effortlessly paid with his black card before guiding Isabella to another women’s clothing
store.
“Are we still shopping?”
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“Yes, I want to make sure your closet is well–stocked.”
