Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem ( Elysia and Tarquin) novel Chapter 523

Before they could even get a word in, Elysia spoke up, “You know, if you really cared about Elijah, there'd be no need to take him away from my place. He's well looked after with me, and his dad felt comfortable enough to leave him in my care.”

Gideon caught the undertone in her words and narrowed his eyes, “Don't try to scare us with him anymore. He's not coming back.”

“That’s not true. He was just here this morning. He even mentioned he'd bring Elijah to the family mansion tonight for dinner.”

Gideon scoffed, “That's a lie. He's been convicted of murder and sentenced to death. It's just not public knowledge yet. Handing Elijah over to you was his way of ensuring his care.”

Elysia gasped in disbelief, “That's impossible!”

Gideon let Ulysses play a recording, “...He knew the police had video evidence of the murder and that his execution was imminent. He asked Elysia to take care of Elijah, essentially making her his child's guardian. He even started transferring his assets...”

After the recording ended, Gideon said, “That's info straight from the police.”

Elysia held her breath, stunned. How could this be? He had promised to join them for dinner tonight. He seemed so at ease; how could anything have gone wrong?

Gideon bluntly added, “I wouldn't be here claiming Elijah if I wasn't sure of his fate.”

Seeing Elysia silent, Gideon continued, “I'm telling you this because without his support, taking Elijah will be easy for us. Even if you risk your life, you won't be able to stop us. It'd be easier if you just cooperated and saved yourself the trouble.”

Elysia steadied her heart and told Gideon, “How about this? To reduce the chances of Elijah's condition worsening, I'll come with you. He relies on me a lot right now. As long as I'm there, he'll be fine wherever he goes. I can help take care of him.”

Gideon, his eyes narrowing, contemplated the offer. With Elysia there, they wouldn't have to worry about Elijah's well-being.

“Alright, you can come with us,” he finally agreed.