Married To a Stranger

Chapter 17

As the drama unfolded, Warren and Isabel had no idea that the Matilda Knight they were arguing about was standing right in front of them.

The old, frail woman they had so underestimated, so insulted, was the one woman they should never have crossed.

Matilda eyed Isabel and Warren with disgust. Who are these clowns? She seethed internally.

If I ever see them again, I'll make them pay for this disgrace. She narrowed her eyes, trying to memorize their faces.

On most days, the old woman struggled to remember her own name, but Isabel's rudeness left a sting, sharp enough to cut through even her Alzheimer's.

Matilda decided, with full confidence, that she hated that girl as much as she loved her granddaughter-in-law.

She hated this woman, and hate would ensure she remembered her ugly face. Ruby, on the other hand, was furious.

Isabel always got what she wanted. It had been that way her entire childhood, but not anymore. Whatever Isabel threw at Ruby, she could take.

But damned if she allowed Isabel and her petty politics to hurt an old, defenseless woman.

Listen, I don't care. Ruby said firmly, grandma, pick the scarf first. She should get it. Isn't that the cardinal rule of retail?

Warren scoffed. How about this? The scarf is $20,000. I'll give you $50,000.

Take it, buy your grandma something else, and consider it a little help for you to get on your feet.

Isabel stepped in with a syrupy smile. Oh, daddy, you are too kind. Ruby, you still haven't found a job since graduation.

Don't be stubborn just to make me look small. Dad's right. You'll regret turning this down.

She smiled at Ruby in a saccharine, sweet way that made Ruby want to gag.

Think it over. Ruby. Warren added, besides, I don't think you can even afford an Hermès scarf.

His voice trailed off, patronizing. Ruby watched him with a mocking smile. All this bribing and threatening just to get Isabel a scarf.

What an excellent father. The man who'd fathered her was just a biological footnote, wasn't he?

Suddenly, a wave of exhaustion washed over her. She was done arguing. They were simply not worth the oxygen it took.

She reached for her debit card, but Matilda, who'd been quiet the entire time, squeezed her hand.

You know what? Granddaughter-in-law. I don't want this one. It's not pretty.

Ruby looked at her gently, grandma, I know you liked it.

I did, but it's not worth fighting over. Matilda whispered, besides, I already bought the best of the season back home.

With a deep sigh, Ruby decided to leave. She tossed the scarf onto Isabel's face like it was charity.

Keep it. Isabel was about to explode, but Warren, sensing the situation was about to blow up, grabbed her arm.

Ruby, if you can't afford it, don't wander into high-end boutiques like this. He retorted. What if someone we know sees you?

You're an embarrassment to the Anderson family. But nothing would stop Isabel jumping headlong into the pit she'd made for herself.

Isabel sneered. Thanks for your sacrifice, Ruby. Once I marry into the Knight family, I'll help you get a decent job.

I can't have you embarrassing me in my future in-law's home, right?

Ruby didn't even glance at her. She guided Matilda toward the exit. And even through the fog of her mind, Matilda shot Isabel a hateful glare.

You wait, young lady. I could forgive all you said to me, but I will make you regret insulting my baby girl here.

Wait. Warren called out, thrusting a check toward Ruby. Take this. I didn't give you a wedding gift.

This will help with your living expenses. Ruby blinked momentarily, stunned, then she shook her head.

That's not necessary. Why, is it too little for you? Warren wheezed. The family company belongs to Natalia.

And it'll all be Izzie's one day. This is the most I can do for you. With this money, you can start a small business with your husband.

Live your quiet little life and stop reaching for things out of your league.

For a fleeting moment, Ruby had actually mistaken his gesture for paternal affection.

Now, all she felt was a pity party, and she was having none of it. And as for you, what exactly is out of my league?