My Coldhearted Ex demands a Remarriage

Just a short walk from Gracies apartment complex, Elizabeth meandered along a slim trail.

Surrounded by decades of history, the neighborhoods structures were adorned with creeping ivy.

Wafting through the air was the scent of home-cooked delicacies, punctuated occasionally by snippets of conversation emanating from the open windows.

In its quaintness, this locale offered a sense of warmth missing in the relentless hustle of larger cities.

Upon arriving at the gate, Elizabeth noticed several families lounging beneath the trees, engaged in after-dinner conversations.

A fat, elderly woman with streaks of gray in her hair leisurely waved her fan, saying, It seems most of our longtime neighbors have departed.

The younger ones taking their place only return late, weary from extended work hours.

Soon, the evenings will be too quiet for a chat.

After the news, its directly off to bed for everyone.

A woman in her forties, swatting at a mosquito on her leg, retorted, Oh, youre missing the joy in life.

Your son in Orkset bought a spacious house for you, yet you choose to stay.

What pleasure do you find in these nightly chats? All I get are mosquito bites everywhere! The elder sighed, replying, When youre old, you yearn for your roots.

Youth may enjoy the constant motion, but at my stage, I seek tranquility and steadiness.

Indeed, its difficult for the elderly to settle into new environments, another slender senior added, edging closer.

Gracie from the third floor, always so strong, used to accompany me on morning walks for groceries.

However, shortly after moving to Orkset with her granddaughter, she fell sick.

Last I heard, shes been hospitalized.

Its been a while since our last conversationI do hope shes alright.

Gracie, the subject of their conversation, was none other than Elizabeths grandmother.

At the start, Elizabeth halted abruptly, feeling suddenly out of place about entering.

The woman in her forties ceased her battle with the mosquitoes, casting a significant glance around.

Its not about adjusting difficulties.

Orkset and Esterhall are mere miles apart, with hardly any difference in weather.

To me, its clearfamily issues are whats troubling her.

She paused, letting her words sink in.

With the group hooked on her words, she continued, Her daughter died shortly after her wedding.

Rumors swirled that her husband was unfaithful.

All alone, she brought up her granddaughter.

That girl ended up in a rich family, yet she always came to visit her mothers grave by herself, year after year.

Has anyone ever even caught a glimpse of her husband? Clearly, her in-laws and spouse dont appreciate her.

Two generations facing similar misfortunesits no surprise Gracies distressed.

The last time Elijah joined Elizabeth for a visit to the cemetery, they opted not to stay at her childhood home, escaping the neighbors notice.

One neighbor after another began to speculate, saying, Its true, isnt it? Elizabeths husband never accompanies her home.

Its obvious he has no regard for her.

He cant even be bothered to join her for a visit to her mothers grave.

As men grow wealthy, their morals often diminish! A small-town girl like Elizabeth cant possibly keep a big city boss under control.

Some might say theyre divorced already, which could be whats troubling her grandmother.

I recall Elizabeths father kept a mistressperhaps her husband follows in those footsteps.

Or perhaps hes too hideous to bring home.

Wealthy men arent known for their looks.

Hes likely as attractive as a pig.

Elizabeth, overhearing their wild conjectures, couldnt help but twitch her lips in amusement.

They werent entirely wrong, except about his appearance.

Why are you lingering out here instead of going inside? a familiar voice suddenly interrupted.

Startled, Elizabeth spun around.

The courtyards chatter ceased abruptly, the women staring in surprise.

Facing Elijahs unexpected presence, Elizabeth managed a strained smile and approached the women.

Long time no see, everyone.

Ive just returned to pay respects at my moms grave.

You look lovelier each time, Elizabeth, they responded casually, their curiosity piqued by the newcomer.

And who is this gentleman? With a courteous demeanor, Elijah introduced himself, saying, Good evening, Im Elijah, Elizabeths husband.

Behind him, Oliver appeared, laden with thoughtful gifts.

Wrapping an arm around Elizabeth, Elijahs affection was evident.

Elizabeth has always shared how supportive youve been.

We thought wed bring a few things to show our appreciation.

Oliver distributed the items: fine tobacco, spirits, and health aidslavish yet sensible.

The neighbors, accepting the offerings, exchanged bewildered glances.

Wasnt this the man who supposedly cared nothing for Elizabeth? Wasnt he supposed to resemble a pig?