Chapter 3

I shook my head. "It's alright. I'm happy with this gown."

Although both John and Xavier were heirs to the McKellen family, neither could access the family fortune until they received Henry's official approval.

For the time being, they were expected to rely solely on their own earnings.

John had built significant wealth over the years through his business ventures. Affording several wedding gowns was hardly an issue for him.

Xavier, on the other hand, worked as a freelancer. His income was inconsistent, and as a result, he often operated within strict financial limits.

For him to purchase even a single wedding dress spoke volumes about his sincerity.

He seemed pleased with my response. "You're wise beyond your years," he said.

The corners of my mouth lifted slightly. My eyes softened as I looked at him.

He grew uneasy under my gaze and quickly looked away. Even so, he gave me his word.

"Don't worry," he said. "Even if you're marrying me out of obligation, I promise to always treat you with respect. You will never have to endure injustice."

His words melted the icy edges of my heart.

I took a step closer and reached for his hand. "I believe you. But this marriage isn't something I was forced into. I'm choosing this," I said with a smile.

Xavier stood frozen. His eyes were wide with disbelief.

At the same time, Alice and John exchanged surprised glances. They were clearly taken aback by my words.

An awkward silence settled over the room.

After a pause, Alice finally spoke up, unexpectedly choosing to touch on a delicate subject.

"With your health challenges, having children after marriage might be a struggle. I'm sure that's not easy to come to terms with."

I frowned, and frustration colored my tone. "Who told you I'm sick? Just because you're my sister doesn't give you the right to spread such nonsense."

Alice's sweet, innocent facade had clearly vanished. She was intent on exposing my supposed flaws, trying to plant doubt in Xavier's mind.

After all, Henry's promise lingered in everyone's thoughts. Whoever gave birth first would have their child recognized as heir.

Even though Xavier didn't care much for authority, Alice's intentional efforts to stir up trouble were infuriating.

Seeing the fire in my eyes, Alice whispered, "But Mom said so."

I let out a scoff. "That's impossible."

Alice immediately pouted. Tears welled in her eyes. "I was just worried about your well-being, Eleanor. I didn't mean anything else by it."

With a shrug, I replied sharply, "Since you're living with John, I'm sure you'll be pregnant sooner or later. You don't have to worry about me being a rival. Whether I can have children is nobody's business but mine. Perhaps you should focus on your own timeline instead."

With that, I took Xavier's arm and walked away.

Alice's sobs soon rang out from behind, accompanied by John's calm, soothing voice.

Even with a new lease on life, all Alice could think about was having a child. Wasn't that just pathetic?

Five days later, Alice and I held our wedding ceremonies simultaneously.

It was a grand affair. Every notable figure in the city came to witness the McKellen family's double celebration.

At the banquet, guests eagerly flocked to offer gifts and raise toasts to John and Alice. Meanwhile, Xavier and I received only a handful of congratulations and presents.

It was clear that everyone favored John. They seemed convinced that he was the rightful heir to lead the family.

Every now and then, Alice would sneak a glance my way.

With her wine glass in hand, she strode over confidently, clearly intent on showing off. "Hey, Eleanor, I'm absolutely wiped out. So many people are congratulating me. I'm honestly struggling to keep up."

A faint smile crossed my lips. "That's a good sign. I'm sure you'll sleep soundly tonight."

Sporting a coy grin, she deliberately teased, "Well, John and I will be up late regardless. After all, we've got a baby to make."

Without skipping a beat, I replied, "Here's hoping you both welcome one soon."