Chapter 187
Alexander’s brow creased as Isabella’s words sank in.
He had suspected her connection to the Kingsley family ran deeper than she let on, but he never imagined it would involve his late mother and grandmother.
“I don’t know much about the past,” Alexander admitted, his voice roughened with uncharacteristic vulnerability. “My mother died when I was young.”
Isabella studied him carefully before speaking. “So, what now? Your mother and my grandmother shared a close bond.”
“I just want answers about my birth mother,” Isabella explained. “But I understand if you don’t trust me enough to involve your grandmother.”
She took a steadying breath. “Here’s my proposal—Amelia still needs treatment for her autism. If I can help her, would you consider allowing your grandmother to receive care at the MDH Research Institute? Once her Alzheimer’s is under control, I can get the information I need, and you’ll have your family back. What do you think?”
Despite the calm in her voice, a thread of unease wound through her. She watched Alexander closely, bracing for rejection. Given his protectiveness over his family, he could easily demand she leave.
The silence stretched between them before Alexander finally spoke.
“Fine.”
His immediate agreement caught her off guard.
“Why?” Isabella frowned. “Aren’t you worried I have other motives?”
“Like I said—I trust you.” His gaze held hers, unwavering.
Isabella’s lips parted, but no words came. Trust wasn’t something she was used to. During her years with the Blackwoods, even as Ethan’s wife, she had never earned it. No matter what she did, suspicion followed her like a shadow.
Moved by his unexpected faith, she decided to match it with honesty.
“I won’t let you down. I’ll make sure your grandmother recovers.” She hesitated before adding, “Thank you for trusting me.”
Alexander gave a slight nod, a distant memory surfacing. “When my grandmother went missing, the nursing home was in chaos. Someone in a mask brought her back.” His eyes sharpened. “That was you, wasn’t it?”
Isabella couldn’t help but laugh at the memory. “I was just scouting the area. I didn’t expect to find your missing grandmother.” She shrugged. “Pure luck.”
Alexander’s lips twitched as he studied her exasperated expression. How had she evaded all the security cameras? But some questions didn’t need answers—not yet. With enough trust, the truth would come in time.
He guided her out of the hidden room. “Now that everything’s settled, no more midnight prowling.”
Isabella ignored the remark.
As they stepped into the hall, they nearly collided with James.
“Mr. Kingsley!” The butler froze, eyes widening at their sudden appearance—especially at Alexander’s slightly disheveled state.
James gasped, then grinned knowingly. “Sir, you really shouldn’t push yourself. You’re both still recovering. Health comes first.”
“You’ve got it wrong,” Isabella cut in, sensing the misunderstanding.
But James waved her off with a chuckle. “I didn’t see a thing. These old eyes aren’t what they used to be.” With that, he hurried away, leaving them in awkward silence.
Alexander cleared his throat, feigning indifference. “Ms. Sinclair, you should rest.”
Though his expression remained neutral, a flicker of satisfaction warmed his chest.
