Eleanor's Gift

 She struggled for a while, but couldn't free her hands, so she allowed him to hold it for as long as he pleased.

 Ethan felt a sense of joy and warmth in his heart when he noticed that she had allowed him to hold her hand.

 After chatting for a bit, Eleanor disappeared into her room and returned holding a box. Upon closer inspection, it was clear that the box was meant for storing jewelry.

 Sitting down next to Zara on the couch, she smiled and said, "Lia, I've been wanting to give this to you for a long time. But, because of..."

 Eleanor paused in the middle of her sentence, reminiscing about the past. Everyone could sense what she was about to say.

 She then changed her mind and cheerfully remarked, "Let's not dwell on that. Now that you're here, it's time for me to give you something."

 Handing the box to Zara, she encouraged her to open it.

 Inside, Zara found a necklace with a delicate platinum chain that shimmered softly in the light, emitting a warm, vintage allure.

 The pendant was a work of art, featuring a central deep blue sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds that sparkled beautifully. The attention to detail and craftsmanship was evident in the careful setting of each stone, making it a precious piece with sentimental and aesthetic significance.

 Along with a bracelet that is equally stunning, showcasing a perfect blend of tradition and style. It is made from the same warm platinum as the necklace.

 The bracelet is simple but embedded within the engravings are small, sparkling diamonds that accentuate the design. With its' detailed workmanship and classic design, complements the necklace perfectly and carry a deep sentimental.

 Zara could tell that the design was something special, not just any ordinary thing. She understood the significance of this set.

 She turned to Eleanor and grinned, "Grandma Eleanor..." When she spoke, she noticed Eleanor's raised eyebrows and knew exactly what it meant.

 So, she changed her tone and said, "Grandma, I really can't accept this. It's too precious." After speaking, she handed the box back to Eleanor.

 Eleanor, however, just smiled and pushed the box back to her, saying, "Yes, it is valuable. But regardless, it should be yours in the future. I'm just giving it to you in advance, that's all."

 "Because, this is my family heirloom. So, I have the right to pass it on to whomever I choose," Eleanor added with a smile.

 Thomas glanced at Ethan and instructed, "Stop staring and help Lia put it on."

 "Yeah, help her put it on," Eleanor chimed in with a smile.

 Ethan glanced at Zara, silently seeking her approval. Seeing the anticipation on both of the elder's faces, Zara realized that her input wouldn't make a difference, so she let out a quiet sigh and handed the box to Ethan.

 Ethan eagerly took the box and retrieved the necklace. Zara turned her back to Ethan, lifting her hair with one hand.

 Ethan assisted Zara in putting on the necklace, then sat beside her and helped her fasten the bracelet on her left wrist.

 Eleanor looked at Zara and exclaimed with a wide smile, "It's true that jewelry shines brightest when it's worn by the right person."

 Thomas agreed, "That's right. Lia is the perfect one to wear it after you."

 Eleanor playfully nudged her husband in response to his words.

 Zara smiled at the older couple and then turned her head to Ethan. Leaning in, Ethan told her, "You're so beautiful, Zara. Why don't you stay with me forever?"

 Zara leaned back and looked at him, replying coldly, "You're not my boyfriend." "But I'm your fiancé," Ethan insisted, leaning forward.

 Zara forgot about it in an instant. Then, she just nudged him as she sat up straight.

 Eleanor and Thomas both acted like they weren't even there and looked away. Beau and David did the same.

 Time passed and before they knew it, it was time for dinner.

 Zara had dinner with Ethan, Eleanor, and Thomas.

 After dinner, Zara was ready to leave. Eleanor took the opportunity to have Beau load a bunch of gifts into the car for the Adam family.

 As the gifts were being loaded, Zara glanced at Thomas and Eleanor and said, "There's no need for these, Grandma."

 Thomas quickly shook his head and exclaimed, "Absolutely not. You provided us with the tablets for our well-being. Plus, Kylie and Andrew have been so generous with gifts. We can't let them down."

 Eleanor agreed, "Just pass those gifts along to Kylie. She'll know what to do. Don't stress about it." She then turned to Ethan and instructed, "Make sure to drive safely and drop her off at home."

 "Sure thing, Grandma," Ethan replied calmly.

 Eleanor then looked at Zara and said cheerfully, "Lia, remember to visit us regularly. Unlike Ethan, we're always here. So make time to come by often."

 Zara smiled and waved goodbye as she hopped into the car with Ethan.

 As they drove towards Mayledge Mansion, Ethan glanced over at Zara who was engrossed in her phone.

 Feeling his eyes on her, Zara put her phone away and inquired, "What's on your mind?"

 Ethan felt it was the right moment to bring it up. So, he spoke gently, "Zara, I've made the decision to assign some bodyguards to you." Zara looked like she had something to say in response.

 Before she had a chance to speak, Ethan quickly added, "Plus, they'll stay hidden from sight. They'll protect you from the shadows without interfering with your everyday routine."

 Zara observed Ethan intently. Despite being in hiding for years, she had traveled extensively and developed a knack for reading people through their expressions.

 Moreover, Ethan, whom she had known since childhood, was someone she trusted to some extent. Although she was unaware of his engagement at the time, she held a favorable view of him.

 She could sense that Ethan genuinely cared about her. However, her lingering doubt stemmed from the fact that it had been quite a while since their last encounter, leaving her uncertain if he was still the same person she knew years ago.

 "I don't think that's necessary." Zara calmly stated looking at Ethan.