Chapter 0165 Chapter 0165 I decided I wouldnt hold my earlier impressions against her .
As we moved to the living room for dessert , the tension between Alexander and Diana lingered in the air .
Alexander remained polite but guarded , keeping a subtle distance .
He seemed uncomfortable , his sharp gaze flickering toward his mother with a critical edge .
I told myself it was probably because of her earlier remarks , though the unease in the room felt harder to explain away .
We settled into plush chairs as the house staff brought out coffee and an elegant tray of sweets .
Diana launched into an animated story about her grandmothers set of heirloom jewels , describing each piece with vivid detail .
When she offered to let me borrow them for the ceremony , couldnt help but feel flattered by the gesture .
Thats generous of you , Alexander said , arching a single eyebrow .
Why shouldnt I be generous ? Diana replied smoothly , but there was something slightly off about her smile .
It seemed a little too polished , too deliberate as she turned her focus to her son .
Theres no reason for you to be , Alexander said , his tone neutral .
I have everything handled .
As always , Diana said , a faint smirk tugging at her lips .
Youve always had that independent streak never wanted to accept help from anyone .
Hes been like this since he was young , she said , turning to me .
Ill gladly accept help when I need it , Alexander replied , his voice calm .
I simply dont want to ask too much of you .
Its no trouble at all , she said .
It would be nice to borrow something for the wedding day , I think , I said .
Maybe another day we can look over things together .
See ? she said , glancing at Alexander .
I knew Ella would understand .
Dianas smirk softened into something resembling a real smile , but the tension between them didnt dissipate .
Alexanders posture remained stiff , his hand resting lightly on the arm of his chair , his fingers drumming rhythmically against the polished wood .
A light knock on the door interrupted the low hum of conversation , and Alexanders drumming fingers stilled as he turned his attention toward it .
Relief flickered across his face , his rigid posture softening slightly as the door opened .
Standing in the doorway was a tall , slim young man with dark hair and wide , boyish features .
Despite his sharp suit , he exuded an air of youthful awkwardness .
Oh , Michael ! Diana exclaimed , springing to her feet with unrestrained excitement .
She hurried across the room , enveloping the newcomer in a tight hug .
Youre home ! Did you have fun ? Michaels cheeks flushed faintly as he glanced at us , clearly uncomfortable with his mothers behavior .
Im fine , Mother , he said softly .
It was just two days .
Youre acting like I was gone for months .
Yes , but Im not used to you leaving , Diana said , her voice thick with emotion .
I was so worried about you .
Its such a relief to have you back safe and sound .
Why wouldnt I be ? Michael muttered , shifting uncomfortably in her embrace .
Please , stop fussing .
Im your mother , Diana said , pulling back only slightly to cup his face .
Its my job to fuss .
+25 BONUS Chapter 0165 I glanced at Alexander , noting the slight tightening of his jaw and the way his gaze dropped to his lap .

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The stark difference between Dianas welcome for Michael and the way she had greeted Alexander earlier hit me like a splash of cold water .
My heart sank as I realized what I was witnessing .
Diana clearly had a favorite son .
It explained so much the tension in Alexanders demeanor , the clipped tone he used with her , and the guarded way he carried himself in this house .
How could he not feel the weight of her different treatment ? Alexanders expression was impassive , but the subtle stiffness in his posture told me the truth .
I wanted to reach for his hand , to offer silent reassurance , but I held back , unsure if the gesture would only make him feel more exposed .
Michael , oblivious to the tension in the room , offered a polite nod in our direction .
Hello , he said .
You must be Ella .
I forced a smile and nodded .
Its nice to meet you , Michael Likewise , he said , his tone genuine but quiet .
He glanced between Alexander and me , his gaze lingering curiously on his older brother for a moment before Diana ushered him further into the room , chattering about his trip .
Alexander remained silent , his expression carefully controlled , but I could read the unease in his body language .
It was becoming increasingly clear that beneath his composed exterior lay scars that ran deep .
Navigating things with the Black family might be more difficult than I had hoped .
+25 BONUS Chapter 0166