Chapter 25 Meeting Grandma
Aria’s POV
I stared at Aiden, my mind blank at his promise. What could I possibly say? My body still hummed with pleasure, my thoughts scattered like leaves in a storm. Thankfully, the car rolled to a smooth stop before
I needed to formulate a response.
“We’ve arrived at the estate, Mr. Carter,” the driver announced through the intercom.
I exhaled in relief, quickly smoothing down my dress and running fingers through my disheveled hair. Aiden adjusted his clothing with practiced ease, not a single hint of what had transpired visible on his composed face. How did he do that?
He exited first, extending his hand to help me out. Without thinking, I slipped my arm through his, seeking stability as much as keeping up appearances.
The warmth of his muscular arm beneath my fingers reminded me of what those hands were capable of just minutes ago, sending a fresh wave of heat through my body.
When I finally looked up, I froze in awe. The Carter estate wasn’t just a house-it was a monument to generational wealth. A sprawling Georgian mansion stood majestically at the end of a circular driveway, its limestone facade gleaming in the afternoon sun.
Perfectly manicured gardens stretched in every direction, complete with marble fountains and sculpted hedges that must have required an army of gardeners to maintain.
“This is where your grandmother lives?” I whispered, feeling suddenly inadequate in my simple dress.
“One of her homes,” Aiden replied casually, as if everyone had multiple mansions. “She prefers this one because of the gardens.”
The massive oak doors swung open before we reached them, revealing an impeccably dressed butler.
“Welcome home, Mr. Carter,” he greeted with a slight bow. “Madam is waiting in the east sitting room.”
“Thank you, Edwards.” Aiden guided me through the entrance hall, which was larger than my entire
apartment.
Crystal chandeliers hung from coffered ceilings, while priceless artwork adorned walls covered in silk damask. The marble floor gleamed so perfectly I could practically see my reflection.
We passed rooms filled with antiques that would make museum curators weep with envy. Each step deeper into the house revealed more evidence of old money-the kind of wealth that whispered rather than shouted, that had been accumulated over generations.
“Nervous?” Aiden asked, glancing down at me.
“Terrified,” I admitted, clutching my gift bag tighter.
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His hand covered mine where it rested on his arm. “Don’t be. She’ll adore you.”
As we entered the sitting room, I saw an elegant woman seated by the window. Though clearly in her eighties, Evelyn Carter carried herself with such dignity and grace that she seemed ageless. Her silver hair was styled in a perfect chignon, her posture impeccable as she turned to greet us.
“There you are,” she said, her voice clear and strong. Her sharp blue eyes-so like Aiden’s-assessed me immediately. “And this must be your bride.”
Aiden led me forward. “Grandmother, may I present my wife, Aria Carter.”
I nearly stumbled at hearing my new name spoken so formally.
“Mrs. Carter,” I managed, extending my hand. “It’s an honor to meet you.”
To my surprise, she bypassed my hand entirely and pulled me into a warm embrace. “None of that ‘Mrs. Carter’ business. You’re family now. Call me Evelyn, or Grandmother if you prefer.”
Over her shoulder, I caught Aiden’s satisfied smile.
When she released me, I remembered the gift. “I brought you something,” I said, offering the bag. “It’s not much, but-”
“Nonsense,” she interrupted, accepting it graciously. “Gifts from the heart are never ‘not much.”
She removed the carefully wrapped package and gasped softly when she saw the vintage brooch I’d selected-a delicate butterfly with sapphire wings that had reminded me of Aiden’s eyes.
“It’s exquisite,” she breathed, pinning it immediately to her cashmere sweater. “You have remarkable taste, my dear.”
“Aria has an eye for beauty,” Aiden commented, his hand finding the small of my back.
Evelyn’s eyes sparkled with approval. “Indeed.Well, I have something for you as well.” She gestured to a mahogany box on the side table. “Bring that here, Aiden.”
He retrieved it, a hint of surprise crossing his features as he recognized the contents.
“These necklaces have been in the Carter family for five generations,” his grandmother opened the box to reveal a stunning diamond and sapphire necklace that likely cost more than I’d earn in a decade.” Each bride has worn them. Now they’re yours.”
“I… I couldn’t possibly-“I stammered, recognizing the significance of such an heirloom.
“Nonsense. You’re a Carter now.” She lifted it from its velvet bed. “Aiden, help your wife put it on.”
I looked at him helplessly, but he simply took the necklace from his grandmother’s hands. “Turn around, Aria,” he instructed softly.
I did as told, lifting my hair as his fingers brushed against my neck, sending shivers down my spine. The weight of the necklace settled against my collarbone-heavy with both literal and symbolic significance.
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“Perfect,” his grandmother declared when I turned back. “It looks as though it was made for
you.”
I fingered the exquisite piece nervously, already planning to return it to Aiden the moment we left. This was too much, too valuable, too meaningful for our sham of a marriage.
For the next hour, Evelyn led us on a tour of the estate, proudly showing off portraits of Carter ancestors and sharing family stories that Aiden occasionally supplemented with details. I listened attentively, trying to memorize names and faces that might be important later. By the time we’d explored the main floor and gardens, the grandfather clock in the hall chimed twelve times.
Evelyn declared, studying me with satisfaction. “Now, shall we have lunch? I’ve had the staff prepare something special.”
The dining room was predictably magnificent, with a table that could seat twenty. We took places at one end, with Evelyn at the head. Course after course arrived-each more elaborate than the last. The silverware alone probably cost more than my car.
“So,” Evelyn said as we began the main course, “when can I expect great-grandchildren?”
I choked on my water, coughing violently while Aiden’s hand came to rest on my back.
“Grandmother,” he chided, “we’ve only just married. Give us time to enjoy being newlyweds.”
She waved a dismissive hand. “At my age, time is a luxury. I want to hold my great-grandchild before I go.
My cheeks burned hotter than the sun. “We haven’t really discussed-”
“Well, perhaps you should,” his grandmother said gently, her eyes settling on me with quiet curiosity.” After all, what could be more meaningful than continuing the Carter legacy?”
“Aria has her career to consider,” Aiden said smoothly, his tone calm but unwavering.
“And I’m not looking to have children interrupt the world we’ve built together.But rest assured, when the time is right, you’ll be the first to know.”
Evelyn huffed. “The time is never ‘right’ with your generation. In my day—”
“The world was quite different,” Aiden finished for her. “Now, tell Aria about your garden. The roses are spectacular this year, aren’t they?”
The diversion worked, and Evelyn launched into a passionate description of her prized roses. I shot Aiden a grateful look.
After dessert, we prepared to take our leave when Evelyn reached for my hand.
“My dear, won’t you stay awhile longer? It’s been so long since I’ve had company that wasn’t trying to sell me something or check my pulse.” Her eyes twinkled with mischief, but I could see the genuine loneliness beneath.
“I-“I glanced at Aiden, uncertain.
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“Aria has plans this afternoon, Grandmother,” he began, but I found myself interrupting.
“I’d love to stay,” I said softly. Those blue eyes-so like Aiden’s-lit up with such joy that I couldn’t possibly regret my decision.
Aiden’s expression remained neutral, but I caught the subtle tightening of his jaw. “In that case,” he said, ”
I’ll send the car back for you in a few hours.”
Before leaving for his afternoon appointments, Aiden pulled me aside in the hallway, our bodies close enough that anyone watching would think we were sharing an intimate moment. His lips brushed against my ear, but his words were all business.
“Remember our agreement,” he said, voice low enough that only I could hear. “Nothing about our arrangement. Nothing about the circumstances of our marriage.”
“I’m not an idiot,” I whispered back, slightly offended. “I can handle a conversation with your grandmother without revealing state secrets.”
His eyes narrowed slightly. “She’s sharper than she appears. Don’t let the sweet old lady act fool you.”
“Is that concern I hear, Mr. Carter?” I couldn’t resist teasing him.
“Self-preservation,” he corrected, but the corner of his mouth twitched. “I’ll be back at five.” His fingers brushed against the necklace at my throat, a gesture that felt strangely intimate. “Don’t give us away.”
Then, for the benefit of anyone watching, he pressed a brief kiss to my lips. The casual display of
affection left me more flustered than I cared to admit.
After Aiden departed, Evelyn suggested we take tea in the solarium. The glass-enclosed room offered breathtaking views of the garden while protecting us from the autumn chill.
“Now,” she said, stirring honey into her cup, “tell me how you two met. Aiden has been frustratingly vague about the whole affair.”
I took a sip of tea to buy myself time.
My heart stuttered. Aiden and I had never discussed our cover story. What was I supposed to say? That I’d proposed our marriage as a business transaction after his rival abandoned me at the altar?
I was so dead.
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