My Coldhearted Ex demands a Remarriage
Chapter 263

Elizabeth maintained a faint smile, her expression calm as she silently waited for Elijah to defend Sandra.

Instead, Elijah pressed his lips into a tight line and said, Ive fired the receptionist already.

Sandra scoffed, rolling her eyes dramatically.

Oh, so youre just passing the blame now.

Ruby quickly pulled Sandra aside, giving her a warning glance.

Sandra, let it go.

Dont say too much.

Despite Elijahs attempt to shift accountability, it was clear to everyone that he was still protecting Sandra.

Elizabeths voice was calm, yet her words carried a sharp edge.

After all, if I, the temporary Mrs.

James, were to leave, the stock price of the James Group would take a hit.

Whether its your beloveds medical bills or her investments in the entertainment industry, its a bottomless pit, isnt it? Her gaze was steady, her tone devoid of emotion, but her pointed remark made Elijah flinch.

As she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her sleeve slipped back, revealing the glaring red marks on her wrist.

Elijahs eyes lingered on the marks for a moment, his throat tightening as if the words he wanted to say wouldnt come out.

The atmosphere grew tense, with an awkward silence hanging in the air.

Finally, Oliver stepped forward, taking Elizabeths backpack and slinging it over his shoulder.

Mrs.

James, let me carry this for you.

He hadnt expected that trying to earn credit for his boss would backfire.

Life already was tough, but being Elijahs assistant was harder.

Bayview Villa Inside Bayview Villa, Willow was growing increasingly anxious.

Two hours ago, Oliver had called to inform her that Elijah and Elizabeth were coming to stay.

Hed asked her to prepare for their arrival.

When Elizabeth had gone missing, Willow had secretly hoped she would disappear for good.

She hadnt expected things to backfire so spectacularly.

Now, not only was Elizabeth safe, but she was returning to the villa.

Willow was so anxious, she couldnt sit still.

The doorbell rang, pulling Willow out of her spiraling thoughts.

When she opened the door and saw Elizabeths stunning face, her heart sank.

Despite her dismay, Willow quickly composed herself, forcing a polite smile.

She respectfully welcomed Elizabeth inside and set out a new pair of slippers for her.

Trying to sound sincerely excited, she said, Ive been praying for your safe return, Mrs.

James.

It looks like my prayers were answered.

Now that youre back, everything will be fine.

Elijahs voice was flat but carried a weight of authority.

An extra two thousand a month in your salary.

Willows eyes lit up instantly, her smile becoming genuine.

Thank you, Mr.

James.

Thank you, Mrs.

James! A few insincere words had earned her a substantial raise.

Willow felt like shed hit the jackpot.

Elizabeth glanced around the villa.

Everything looked the same as when shed left.

She turned to Willow and said casually, Go prepare a guest room.

Elijah cut her off in a clipped tone.

I wont be back for a while, so theres no need.

Elizabeth remained composed.

Im not asking for a separate room.

I need a study.

She was laying the foundation for a larger plan.

If they were going to play the part of a reconciled couple, they needed to be convincing.

Pushing Sandra to the edge would force her to act rashly, revealing her hand.

Elijahs expression softened.

Convert the guest room with the best lighting on the second floor into a study.

Order a new set of furniture and have it delivered by tomorrow.

He turned to Elizabeth, his voice unexpectedly calm.

Is there anything else you need? Elizabeth thought for a moment, then replied, A desktop computer with a large monitor.

Writing scripts on her laptop had been a strain on her neck and back.

If it werent for Sandras interference, they would have been divorced long ago.

If she was being forced into this situation, she might as well make the most of it.

Elijah nodded toward Oliver, who immediately took note.

Yes, Mr.

James.

Ill handle it right away.

He handed Elizabeths backpack to Willow.

Willow, holding Elizabeths backpack, was shocked.

The sudden shift in their dynamic left her rattled.

Unable to stop herself, she blurted out incredulously, You two are going to share a room?