"Isabella, you're too kind! I never imagined you'd gift such a luxurious bag." Evelyn commented, her curiosity thinly veiled.

Isabella answered smoothly, "It was quite an effort to acquire it. But if you admire it, Evelyn, I can introduce you to some ladies of means who have extensive collections from these designers. You could select anything you desire."

After a slight pause, she continued, "And since your marriage to Alexander, you haven't been very visible in society. This could be an ideal way for you to change that."

Isabella was certain Evelyn would jump at such an enticing proposal.

But Evelyn's response was measured and calm. "That won't be necessary. Thank you."

Once more, Isabella's expression tightened at the blunt refusal. "Are you absolutely sure, Evelyn? You really shouldn't dismiss an opportunity like this. It's quite rare. If you accompany me, the upper echelons will formally acknowledge you as Alexander's wife."

Evelyn arched a brow. "Is that so? But I have no need for society's validation. My husband's recognition is all that matters to me."

Isabella's irritation intensified. Faced with rejection again, she struggled to suppress her rising anger.

This couple was truly well-matched.

Evelyn deserved a life of hardship with the crippled Alexander.

Isabella seethed inwardly.

Then, she remembered Theodore's directives.

A flicker of hesitation passed through Isabella's eyes.

To persuade Theodore to secure her son's release, she needed to deliver Evelyn to him, regardless of her personal disdain.

Drawing a slow breath, Isabella changed tactics, feigning vulnerability. "I may not mean much to you, but we are still family. And with Eleanor returning soon, we must have a proper family reunion, mustn't we?"

Alexander's brow furrowed at her words. His gaze sharpened as he asked quietly, "Why is Grandmother returning now?"

Eleanor was supposed to remain convalescing at the overseas sanatorium.

Isabella forced a smile, her tone carefully neutral. "Eleanor's health has improved significantly. It's time for her to come home. She's delighted about your marriage and is eager to meet her new granddaughter-in-law."

Margaret Blackwood released a heavy, deliberate sigh.

She let the silence hang for a moment before continuing.

"Speaking of which, Eleanor's birthday is approaching rapidly."

"We must organize a truly spectacular celebration for her."

"I'm certain you wouldn't dream of missing it, Alexander?"

Alexander Blackwood's response was immediate and firm.

It concerned his grandmother; refusal was not an option.

"I will be there for Grandmother's birthday," he stated.

A slow, satisfied smile spread across Margaret's lips.

Her eyes then shifted, their focus sharpening as they landed on Evelyn.

The warmth in her expression cooled, replaced by a more calculating gleam.

"Since we are discussing Eleanor's birthday, there is a particular matter, Evelyn."

"I wish to ask for your assistance. Would you be amenable to that?"

Evelyn inclined her head in a soft, polite nod.

Her tone was respectful, carefully measured.

"Certainly. Please, tell me what you require."

Margaret offered another light sigh, this one tinged with theatrical weariness.

"Orchestrating a birthday celebration of this magnitude is no simple task."

"The logistics are immense. The guest list is extensive and requires meticulous attention."

A feigned shadow of sorrow passed over her features.

She gestured vaguely, emphasizing her perceived plight.

"Currently, the family burden falls only on myself and Alexander's father."

"You know how Harrison is; he lacks a certain... attention to detail."

"I simply cannot manage every single aspect entirely on my own."