Married To a Stranger

Chapter 33

Matilda's words made Ruby freeze. She stared at her for a few seconds, too shocked to react.

Mrs. Anderson is my mother.

The thought almost escaped her lips, then she shook her head.

Matilda had severe Alzheimer's. She probably had no idea what she was saying. Besides, how would she know anything about the Anderson family?

No, she's not, Grandma, she said gently, forcing a light smile.

Just because we look a little similar doesn't mean we're related.

It was true that both Ruby and Natalia had distinct oval-shaped faces, but Natalia's eyes were sharp and almond-shaped.

Ruby's were rounder, more doe-eyed. The only real similarity was the cool, distant air they both carried.

At first glance, someone might think they were related, which, in a way, made sense because Ruby had always wanted to be like Natalia.

Natalia was the ideal she'd grown up admiring. From childhood, Ruby had tried to emulate her as closely as possible.

She picked up Natalia's effortless poise and mannerisms, though they were mixed with her own edge of rebellion.

But that wasn't proof of any blood relation.

It was just another quiet reminder of Ruby's longing for a mother who loved her.

Despite Ruby's denial, Matilda remained stubbornly convinced.

Of course she is, honey. How can you not know your own mother?

Ruby didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

Matilda was clearly slipping into another episode.

Thankfully, Owen appeared in the doorway just then, carrying takeout for dinner, and Matilda dropped the subject.

Owen had brought a generous spread of light dishes and three containers of fresh fruit.

But Matilda frowned the moment she spotted one box.

Owen, you're so careless.

She scolded.

Ruby can't have mangoes. She's allergic.

Ruby froze, staring at her in disbelief.

Grandma, how do you know that?

She had been allergic to mangoes, but her system had grown stronger a couple of years ago, and she wasn't anymore.

Still, Matilda having that information was completely wild.

Matilda smiled warmly.

Because you told me before, sweetie.

You said whenever you ate mangoes, you'd break out in little red bumps.

Ruby's expression slowly turned serious.

When exactly was before?

Matilda's brow furrowed.

I think... before the wedding.

Yes.

You told me before you both got married.

Ruby stared at her, stunned.

She had never met Matilda until recently.

Yet this conversation made her feel as though she was the one losing her memory.

Seeing an opening, Ruby pressed.

Can you tell me more, Grandma?

Like how Mr. Knight and I got married?

But the old woman only shook her head helplessly.

I can't remember.

Ruby fell silent, choosing not to agitate her.

Maybe Grandma can only recall small flashes when something specific triggers her memory.

I'll stay alert and piece together what she knows bit by bit.

She was lost in thought.

She suddenly sensed someone watching her.

She turned and met Owen's icy gaze.

He had overheard everything.

But instead of sharing her surprise, his eyes were filled with accusation.

He clearly suspected her of planting something even now.

I'm so done trying to make this guy see sense.

Ruby grumbled and rolled her eyes.

She stood up and scooped Kitty into her arms.

Grandma, you two go ahead and eat.

I'm just going to take the dog for a quick walk.

With that, she slipped out of the room with the puppy tucked under her arm, her thoughts racing.

Sure enough, it wasn't long before a tall figure emerged.

Owen spotted her and started walking slowly in her direction.

His deep voice rumbled.

Miss Anderson.

Is there something you need to tell me?

Ruby turned around and pursed her lips.

She looked him dead in the eye.

If you mean what Grandma said about the before-the-wedding stuff, I honestly have no idea what she's talking about.

Even to her own ears, it sounded flimsy.

A mango allergy was such a specific personal detail.

There was no way Matilda could have just made it up.

And Owen obviously thought she had fed the old lady this information beforehand.

She braced for him to call her a liar, but to her surprise, all he said was,

I see.

His reaction threw her.

Wait. So you believe me?

I don't know.

Owen stepped closer, his height suddenly imposing.

His eyes were intense, his deep voice laced with meaning.

Miss Anderson, I don't care what you do in your personal life.

Keep my grandmother happy, and I'll protect you.

That's all there is to say.

Ruby fell silent as his words sank in.

Of course, he was Owen Knight, a man powerful enough to run this city.

Someone who obviously wasn't afraid of some small-time scheme.

But it goes without saying, he added, his voice growing low and serious.

If you hurt her in any way, I'll make sure you can't survive in this city.

Ruby's eyes narrowed instantly.

She never responded well to threats.

Haven't you already done that, Mr. Knight?

She scoffed.

Owen frowned.

He opened his mouth to correct her.

But another voice cut in.

Ruby Anderson, is that you?

Ruby turned to see Professor Miller heading toward them.

Professor Miller, it's so good to see you.

Ruby greeted him with a small smile.

But the man was not in the mood for small talk.

Instead, he said with an anxious expression,

I was about to call you.

Have you found work?