Chapter 21
Eliza hurried along, jogging to hand over the food to the chef. "It might be a bit cold and needs reheating," she said.
The chef didn't say much.
Her phone pinged, confirming the delivery. Her fee was deposited into her account.
With a deep breath, Eliza felt the hassle was worth it after all. At least she got the money.
Back at the villa, the birthday party was still in full swing.
Guests continued to arrive, including Aaron.
He hadn't really wanted to come. He couldn't wrap his head around why a married man would throw such a big party for another girl's birthday. Even if Eliza and Casper were getting a divorce, they were still married, right?
"You and Nova..."
"It's her birthday today." Casper raised his glass, cutting Aaron off.
Aaron wasn't usually chatty, but today, he couldn't help himself. "Doing this could make Eliza misunderstand, especially since you two..."
"What? She already told you about the divorce?" Casper appeared indifferent but a bit jealous, glancing sideways. "Seems like your relationship with her isn't as simple as it looks."
Aaron frowned. Given his history with Casper, he shouldn't be questioned like this. His voice turned icy. "Eliza is only my friend."
"Is that so?" Casper chuckled lightly.
Aaron always knew Casper wasn't a generous man. He was possessive, a bit tyrannical, and domineering. Honestly, a guy like that wasn't suited for a peaceful life.
"I just want to remind you that Jeffrey's illness still needs the antibodies in Eliza's blood. It's best not to do anything that might make her misunderstand. That's not good for a marriage, especially if you plan on having kids."
Casper's gaze darkened. "Isn't there any other way?"
"Well, there is. But it's not really feasible," Aaron said.
Casper frowned, "Let's hear it."
"It would involve draining all of Eliza's blood and replacing all of Jeffrey's. The cost would be... Eliza wouldn't survive."
Fearing Casper might not fully understand, he added, "If she gets pregnant, just drawing a tube of blood could purify the antibodies."
As Casper's wife, Eliza had the duty to continue the family lineage.
Pregnancy was the simplest, safest, and most efficient solution. Aaron hoped Casper would understand.
Casper remained silent.
Nova came over with her cane, smiling, "Casper, come blow out the candles with me."
He set down his glass, supporting Nova. "Alright."
Aaron shook his head.
...
After parking her electric scooter in the community shed, Eliza finally headed home.
Chelsea was standing at her door, checking her watch. "Where did you go to deliver food? I've been waiting for two hours."
Eliza smiled faintly, "It was a bit far. Why didn't you go in?"
"I can't keep using the spare key to open the door."
"It's okay." Eliza took out her keys, unlocking the door. "Did you wait to tell me something important?"
Chelsea helped Eliza off with her raincoat. "I think constantly delivering food isn't really your thing. I found you a job." "Really?"
If there were a stable job available, Eliza would be thrilled. Though she wondered who in Falconridge would dare to hire her.
"I have a friend who just opened an art studio in Falconridge. He needs talented and skilled artists. I recommended you, and he seemed quite pleased."